Desert Voice Summer 2017

Air Assault in pg. 11 German Armed Forces Badge pg. 17 Lucky 6: On Point 1 Lucky 7: From My Foxhole 2 Unit Transitions around the AO 3

Greywolf troopers train with international partners 4 Combined Joint Rescue Training commences 5 HIMARS gunnery validates war fighters 9 Lucky 6 surprises with combat patch 10 RMY ENTRAL First Air Assault Course survives the desert of Kuwait 11 U.S. A C Multinational forces wrap-up Eagle Resolve 15 Summer 2017 Staff contributors USARCENT strengthens ties through land forces symposium 16 <

5 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 6 oint Rescue and Isolated Personnel Recovery operations were Sgt. 1st Class, Adam Hendrickson, a combat medic with capability to work out any issues that came up Jconducted in a training exercise at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait’s the 86th CSH, stated that Joint Service training ensures that and mitigate as much confusion as possible. Our Patriot Airfield, May 8, 2017. Emergency Response Personnel remains relevant within their goal was to ensure that our Soldiers and civilian The training, hosted by Soldiers from the 86th Combat Support current areas of operation. EMS counterparts were able to load and unload Hospital, Marines from the Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron United States Military Hospital–Kuwait staff is responsible for any litter casualty off of the MV-22 Osprey,” said - 364 (VMM-364) and Emergency Response Technicians from ensuring that persons in an emergency situation are evaluated Hendrickson. Area Support Group – Kuwait, Joint Emergency Services. and treated promptly. Herrera mentioned this type of collaborative Service members and their civilian EMS counterparts “The entire crew, both in the aircraft and on the ground have training maintains the “one-team, one-fight” rehearsed MV-22 Osprey casualty loading and offloading to be able to work together. The aircrews manage all aspects mentality. procedures to develop Joint Service cohesion and collectively of safety and crew coordination in flight. ‘From receiving the “I would like to offer a special thank you to review the standard operating procedures of casualty patient or survivor from the battlefield to authentication of the transportation throughout the U.S. Central Command’s area survivor.’ The teams on the ground provide safe reception of the VMM-364, ASG-K JES and the 86th CSH for of responsibility. patient, and themselves while entering and exiting the aircraft, holding the training. This valuable, real-world “It’s important for each member to be familiar with standard for transfer to the medical facility,” said Herrera. training, is needed in today’s fight. The VMM- operating procedures so that when an actual event occurs, there After rehearsing for several hours, air and ground crews 364 have always been at the forefront of Casualty is no confusion or safety compromise,” said U.S. Navy Cmdr. developed a safe and fluid patient transition from the aircraft Evacuations from the CH-46 Sea Knight days in Rudolph Herrera, the surgeon with Combined Joint Task Force to the Medical Facility Transport. Operation Iraqi Freedom to now with the MV-22 – Operation Inherent Resolve. “We role played this particular scenario to the fullest of our Osprey,” said Herrera. u

U.S. Army combat medics, with the 86th Combat Support Hospital, and Emergency Medical Technicians, with Area Support Group - Kuwait Joint Emergency Service, U.S. Army combat medics, with the 86th Combat Support Hospital, carry a approach a MV-22 Osprey during a joint training exercise with Marines from simulated casualty off of a MV-22 Osprey during a joint training exercise with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron - 364 (VMM-364), at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron - 364 (VMM-364), at Camp May 8, 2017. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dalton Smith) Arifjan, Kuwait, May 8, 2017. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dalton Smith) 7 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 8 Lucky 6 surprises with combat patch HIMARS gunnery validates war fighters

By Sgt. Kimberly Browne U.S. Army Central U.S. Army Soldiers operate a high mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS) in support of ground forces in Afghanistan May 5, 2017. (U.S. Navy Combat Camera photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean Furey)

art of achieving the standard as a Soldier is qualifying similar to other gunneries, the weapon’s system is on an assigned weapon and or weapon system. These actually very different. Pqualifications begin at the individual’s weapon, such “A lot of people are calling them the long range sniper as an M9 pistol or an M4 carbine. But, there are some rifle,” Toste said. “When you pick out a target and give Soldiers who have to qualify on a weapon’s system and it a grid, it’s going to hit that grid. With HIMARS you as a member of a functioning team. can build a target packet in a relatively built up area By Sgt. Bethany Huff, U.S. Army Central Thus, to accommodate this standard, Soldiers with and … you can drop that building right where it stands Lt. Gen. Michael Garrett, the commanding general of U.S. Army Central, presents Spc. Benjamin Baldwin, a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter crew chief, for Company A, 2nd General Battery B “Berserkers,” 3rd Battalion, 157th Field and not have any collateral effects on the surrounding Support Aviation Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment, with his first combat patch, during an impromptu combat patch ceremony on the helicopter landing pad, at Ali Al Salem Artillery Regiment, participated in a High Mobility buildings.” Air Base, Kuwait, May 20, 2017. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Bethany Huff) Artillery Rocket System table VI gunnery qualification, This “long range sniper rifle” or HIMARS is set up on a he patches placed on the right shoulder sleeve signify change of plans, Garrett started talking to them and March 29, Udairi Range Complex, Kuwait. M1140 Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles Army 5-ton wartime service, often called combat patches. getting them ready to receive their combat patches. To those participating in this qualification, it is the and contains one “Pod.” The Pod can include six M31 T These patches are a rarity for Soldiers who’s first “For these guys, the patch is a piece of cloth for them validation of a three Soldier team; the driver, gunner, Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System rounds or one deployment is in Kuwait, as Kuwait is not considered that they earned,” said Gonzales, a native of Little Rock, a combat zone. However, Soldiers with Company A, Arkansas. “But it’s not just a patch, [Garrett] sent them and launcher chief. Where the team has to test yearly Army Tactical Missile System. One M31 round weighs 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 149th Aviation words of encouragement and motivation to continue to on several functional areas of the HIMARS. 54 pounds and has a range of 15 to 84kms. Whereas, Regiment, have a unique opportunity to receive their do the work that they’re doing.” “There are different certification levels we do every the ATACMS weighs 500 pounds with a range of 70 to combat patches. Humbled and stunned, the crew chiefs stood next to their year, so table V and table VI are certification lanes. And 300kms. The empty Pod weighs approximately 5,100 “When required, we go to combat zones to do a number aircraft soaking up Garrett’s story of how he received his of things,” said 1st Lt. Benjamin Gonzalez, the platoon then table VI is the actual live-fire, so we test our crews pounds. And a fully loaded HIMARS can weigh more first combat patch and what it meant to him. leader for A Co., who went on to state that the UH-60 “It is such an honor,” said Spc. Jesus Santiago, a UH- to make sure they can actually go out and employ the than 34,000 pounds. Blackhawk helicopters transport supplies to troops in 60 Blackhawk helicopter crew chief, for A Company, weapons systems in combat,” said Capt. Timber Toste, Nevertheless, the qualification went off without a hitch. combat zones. 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 149th Aviation commander of Battery B, 3-157th. “They have to shoot Aside from a few camels causing random “cease fires” One of the many other things that the unit provides Regiment. “I never thought that a three star, especially for the units within the U.S. Army Central footprint, is three types of fire missions; an ‘at my command,’ a on the range, this validation and controlling a HIMARS my own commander, would ever take the time to place providing air transportation for distinguished visitors my combat patch on my shoulder.” ‘when ready,’ and a ‘time on target.’ proves worthy to a launcher chief and his crew. such as the commanding general of U.S. Army Central, The Soldiers performed more than 60 hours of flight “At my command,” is a fire command given to the “It’s a good part of my life, I enjoy it,” Bentley said. Lt. Gen. Michael Garrett. time in and out of combat zones, while ensuring that their HIMARS and prohibits them from firing until directed “It’s a great experience. I wouldn’t change anything and On Garrett’s most recent battlefield circulations, aircrafts are well maintained. The Soldiers are attached Gonzalez arranged for two of his UH-60 Blackhawk by the Fire Direction Center. “When ready,” allows the I would do it all over again.” helicopter crew chiefs to receive their very first combat to the crews that move passengers and cargo within the section chief to give a fire command to his team once As the qualification toiled on in the dry deserts of patch in a very special way. U.S. Army Central footprint. they have received the target’s coordinates. And “time Kuwait, the commander, in an understood “you” type “It was such a surprise!” said Spc. Benjamin Baldwin, a “I wanted to recognize the two Soldiers because they’re younger guys, hard workers,” said Gonzalez, who went on target,” is a means for the Fire Direction Officer, of meaning, mentioned how he was pleased with his UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter crew chief, for A Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 149th Aviation on to describe each Soldier. “I’m proud to say that I work who is in a different location than the HIMARS team, battery. Regiment. “I’ve flown with the general before, but never for a commander willing to take time out of his day to to control when the rounds will hit the target. “Rounds are going down range and are landing where expected him to present us with our combat patches.” meet with them. Those two specialists will remember Even though the HIMARS fire commands are very they’re supposed to, so that’s what we do,” he said. u While the Soldiers were initially confused at the sudden that day for the rest of their lives.” u 9 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 10 First Air Assault Course survives the desert of Kuwait

Story and photos by Sgt. Tom Wade U.S. Army Central

U.S. service members rappelling out of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters during day nine of U.S. Army Central’s first Air Assault Course, April 13, 2017 at Camp Beuhring, Kuwait. The Air Assault Course is a 12-day class that allows U.S. military personnel in the USARCENT area of operations the unique opportunity to become air assault qualified while deployed outside the continental United States. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tom Wade) 11 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 12 fter 12 days of little rest and multiple exams, military personnel Hundreds of Soldiers, Airmen and Marines made it to phase two, Ain the U.S. Army Central area of operations made it to graduation where they had to complete a four-mile run, sling load inspections day. For these students, it means they have earned the right to the test and another written exam. identifier and badge of ‘Air Assault.’ “Phase two was the more difficult phase, as far as memorizing all the U.S. service members attended USARCENT’s first Air Assault material needed for sling loads and the practical hands on exercises,” Course from April 3 to 14, at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Where, the said U.S. Army Spc. Matthew Dawson, infantryman, Company A, 1st course gave 269 U.S. service members the unique opportunity to Battalion, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. “The challenges were become air assault qualified, while deployed outside the continental further complicated when the Humvee and different cargo bags were United States. introduced.” The Warrior Training Center, from Fort The students who made it through phase two’s challenges moved Benning, Ga., provided the instructors, who were given the task of onward to phase three, which consists of a swiss seat test, a rappel test training, guiding and mentoring the applicants. and a three-hour 12-mile road march. “Today’s graduation was a culminating event of what some called the “Students, during phase three, are tested on items like the 15 second 10 toughest days in the Army,” said U.S. Army Col. Roger Davis, chief hook up test, where they have to properly hook-up … and get into of training, Central. “This was the first ever air the ready position within that allotted time,” said U.S. Army Sgt. assault school conducted in the U.S. Army Central area of operations Cruser Barnes, cavalry scout and Air Assault instructor, attached to … which went extremely smooth due to all the different units coming Army National Guard Warrior Training Center. “Those students are together.” also tested on how to properly tie a hip rappel seat, which has to be This Air Assault Course was conducted in three phases; combat completed within 90 seconds. If they fail either of those the first time, assault operations, sling load operations and rappelling. During day they get retrained … and then retested.” zero, candidates had to complete a two-mile run and a nine-event Barnes also stated Soldiers who fail events in phase two or three can obstacle course. reapply for the air assault course and begin right away in the failed “The obstacle course was very difficult because it challenges you to phase; as long as it is within six months. If the perspective candidate be ready for the heights you are about to encounter” said U.S. Army 1st misses that time frame, they will have to restart the entire course, Lt. Katlyn Lehmann, human resource officer, 258th Human Resource passing each phase. Company. “As a support branch officer, I want to make sure I have all The course concluded with a 12-mile ruck march, where students the tools needed to lead soldiers, the best way possible.” had to carry a minimum of 35 pounds and finish within three hours. Those who make the day zero cuts moved Col. Roger Davis said the ruck march is an important event to have onward to phase one, which consisted of a six- at the end of the course work, because “it is a good gut check proving mile road march, written exams, and a hand the toughness of the air assault Soldier.” and arm signal test. Nevertheless, the dust settled from the ruck march and 213 students “Each phase was challenging in its own remained to graduate USARCENT’s first Air Assault School. way,” said U.S. Army Capt. James Lamoureux, “Physical fitness should be second nature, to someone considering military police officer, 368th Engineer attending a course like air assault,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Carl Howard, Battalion, 176th Engineer Brigade. “Phase one combat medic, 215th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored was more physical compared to future phases, Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. “Come determined and which required a lot of memorization and required motivated to work within a team ... for that will be the key to your one to finish strong.” success here.”u

(Left)U.S. Army Spc. Dylan Gustaitis, radiology specialist, 215th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, rappels off a tower at Kuwait’s first Air Assault Course, April 12, 2017, at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Rappelling off a 50-foot tower is one of several tests students have to pass within in the three phases of the course. The Air Assault Course is a 12- day class that allows U.S. military personnel in the U.S. Army Central area of operations the unique opportunity to become air assault qualified, while deployed outside the continental United States. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tom Wade)

(Right) U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William Hickman (right), U.S. Army Central deputy commanding general, pins air assault wings on one of the Air Assault Course’s honor graduates Sgt. Carl Howard, combat medic, 215th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, during graduation day, April 14, 2017, at Camp Beuhring, Kuwait. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tom Wade) 13 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 14 USARCENT strengthens Multinational forces wrap-up ties through exercise Eagle Resolve 2017 land forces

By Maj. Angel Jackson symposium U.S. Army Central By Sgt. Matt Kuzara U.S. Army Central Maj. Gen. Terrence McKenrick, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Central, introduces Gen. Joseph Votel, commander, U.S. Central Command, to the participants of the USARCENT CASA Land Forces Symposium in Alexandria, Va., June 19-22, 2017. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Matt Kuzara) U.S. and Gulf Cooperation Council forces regain control of Kuwait’s Shuwaikh Port in the final event of exercise Eagle Resolve, April 6. Eagle Resolve is the premier multinational exercise in the Gulf region. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Frank O’Brien) .S. Army Central’s senior leadership assembled within a given state,” said Schoonover. for a four-day conference with six partner nations While it may be useful to have civilian and military Ufrom Central and South Asia for the USARCENT Land experts from the U.S. speak, the learning was not a .S. and Gulf Cooperation Council forces stormed operations, counterterrorism operations and procedures Forces Symposium in Alexandria, Viginia, June 19-22. one-way affair. In fact, one of the benefits of gathering UKuwait’s Shuwaikh Port in a demonstration of to consequence management. The symposium gave senior leaders, such as Lt. Gen. the partner nation representatives was gaining their interoperability, April 6, in the final event of exercise “We are concerned about defending our gulf, defending Michael Garrett, commanding general, USARCENT, insights into the region through open discussion and Eagle Resolve 2017. ourselves, our states and our nations,” said Al-Khader. as well as military representatives from USARCENT’s during the one-on-one bilateral meetings that also took The culminating event involved land, air, and maritime “What is important for us is our continuous training so partner nations in the region an opportunity to hear from place during the symposium. forces and included tactical demonstrations of search we can achieve the required level of fighting readiness.” civilian and military experts on issues of importance to The USARCENT 20-country area of operation includes and seizure, countering a chemical threat, and border While participating nations may have varying reasons global and regional security. the Levant, Central Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. It is security. for supporting Eagle Resolve, there is one common Leading off the symposium, Garrett spoke on the a unique, dynamic and complex operating environment. Maj. Gen. Ralph H. Groover, III, U.S. Central theme: regional security. need to use the event to come together and develop the And while the symposium’s focus was on the Central Command’s director of exercises and training directorate, “This exercise is all about building capacity and solutions to today’s challenges in the region. and South Asian region, the knowledge gained can have said the benefits of Eagle Resolve 2017 began over a capability of each of our nations that are participating,” “While some would say that the easy answer is to a broader usefulness across globe. Knowledge means simply shut-down borders and to live in isolation, the individual understands the nature of the area, knows year ago when the U.S. and GCC nations planned for said Groover. “We are stronger together as a group than the asymmetric threats that we all face in our current how best to fight the enemy and how to protect against the exercise. we are individually. This was just another demonstration u operating environment make this option both infeasible threats. “Working together, understanding one another, of how we can come together and act as a force of one.” and unobtainable. As hard as it may be in some cases, This reality holds true with the partner nation understanding each other’s tactics, techniques and the better answer is build relationships and to cooperate representatives as well. Knowing more about the procedures for responding to threats enhances all of our with each other,” said Garrett. concerns of your neighboring country, whether those capabilities,” said Groover. With that goal, the experts spoke on topics ranging concerns are security, economic, political, or even Since 1999, Eagle Resolve has become the leading from defeating ISIS, understanding Iranian malign environmental, can have a large impact. engagement between the U.S. and GCC nations to influence in the region, and what a post-conflict Syria “I think what was very useful for all the nations in the collectively address the regional challenges associated and will look like. Central Asian Region, is that they have to know what with asymmetric warfare in a low-risk setting. Dr. Rod Schoonover, Director of Environmental and is going on in the region and that they have to come “We dealt with reality in accordance with the Natural Resources for the National Intelligence Council together to help each other to fight against terrorists like environment around us and countering terrorism,” who spoke on how changes to global temperature, water Al Qaida and ISIS,” said Col. Abdul Hadi Barakzai of said Lt. Gen. Mohammed Khaled Al-Khader, Kuwait’s scarcity, deforestation, and overfishing can affect the the Afghan National Army, “I think this was a pretty U.S. and our partner nations in the region, adding to the good experience and everybody got to speak their view military chief of general staff. He added the exercise was diversity of ideas. about the region.” an opportunity to exchange experiences with an army of “Countries that are most vulnerable to such stresses USARCENT demonstrates its enduring commitment history and legacy. are those with weak political institutions, poor economic to its partners by continuing to build on existing More than 3,000 forces from Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi U.S. and Gulf Cooperation Council special operations forces conduct the conditions, and existing political strife. Addressing relationships and understanding the culture of the region. Arabia, United Arab Emirates and the U.S. participated culminating field-training event of exercise Eagle Resolve 2017, April 6, instability would require not only understanding and The command plans on continuing to help ensure that in the three-week exercise. This year’s scenarios in Kuwait’s Shuwaikh Port. Eagle Resolve is the premier multinational mitigating the environmental stresses directly but also the countries in the region can work together to meet ranged from air defense concepts, border security exercise in the Gulf region. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Frank O’Brien) through strengthening the political and social institutions security challenges. u 15 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 16 A German officer supervises as U.S. Army Central Command Soldiers fire the M9 pistol during the marksmanship portion of the German Armed Forces Badge qualification. The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is one of the most sought after foreign awards in the United States Army. The 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and the 1st Theater Sustainment Command had the privilage of hosting the award qualifications at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait April 27, 2017. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Christopher Bigelow)

Staff Sgt. Arnold Rojas, the admin manager for the Iraqi Train and Equipment Fund section with the 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, exits the pool after completing the swim portion of the German Armed Forces Badge qualification. The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is one of the most sought after foreign awards in the United States Army. The 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and the 1st Theater Sustainment Command had the priv- - ilage of hosting the award qualifications at Camp Ar ifjan, Kuwait April 27, 2017. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Christopher Bigelow)

U.S. Soldiers complete the swim portion of the German Armed Forces Badge qualification at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, April 27, 2017. The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is one of the most sought after foreign awards in the United States Army. The 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and the 1st Theater Sustainment Command had the privilege of hosting the award qualifi cations.(U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Christopher Bigelow)

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Soldiers compete for German Armed Forces Badge

Chief Warrent Officer 3 Raul Echevarria, the property book officer with the 369th Sustainment Brigade, marches during the ruck march portion of the German Armed Photos By Sgt. Christopher Bigelow Forces Badge qualification. The German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency is one of the most sought after foreign awards in the United States Army. The 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and the 1st Theater Sustainment Command had the privilage of hosting the award qualifications at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait April 27, 2017. 1st Theater Sustainment Command (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Christopher Bigelow) 17 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 18 “[My Soldiers] gained better cohesion and teamwork,” said to be part of this [combined] operation that we had,” said Greywolf kicks up dust, builds Staff Sgt. Patrick Robitaille, a tank commander assigned Robitaille, a native of Carbondale, Kansas. “I think it opens to Co. A, 3-8 CAV. “They’ve learned valuable experience it more for them to see the big picture, not just that tanks go on working with another nation and just how to put tactics in, shoot, cause destruction. But if you’ve got Bradleys and partnership in multinational exercise together and implement everything that we operate.” dismounts tagging along with them, it provides another aspect Additionally, the Warhorse Soldiers wrapped up their along with it. We go in and secure a site, and the dismounts By Staff Sgt. Leah Kilpatrick crew, squad and platoon mounted and dismounted training with the Bradleys will come up and use different tools that 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cav. Div. with a company-level CALFEX, incorporating the two tank might be necessary for a mission that maybe a tank wouldn’t platoons and a Bradley platoon with dismounts armed with be able to accomplish. Since they are integrated with us in the n a hilltop in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the cloud of dust can degrade your ability to fight. It affects your M4 carbines, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, AT-4s and company, they can actually witness the additional capabilities calm morning silence is broken when two F-16 Fighting lasers. It affects visibility for driving. We just learned how to O Javelins. of the dismounts.” Falcons drop their explosive pay load. As a cloud of powdery fight through all of the different elements that were thrown The company CALFEX validated Burkhart’s integration of All the planning, coordination, and joint and combined dust and shrapnel rise from the target area, the engines of five at us.” armor and infantry, and gave the Soldiers a glimpse of how training, culminated in the CALFEX. M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tanks roar to life and move into While the company is usually organized into three tank all the puzzle pieces fit together to create a lethal force on the “I think it’s amazing that we were able to come and be a position atop a hill over looking a ravine. platoons, the task organization was augmented for this battlefield. part of that combined arms live-fire, because we learned a A radio crackles as a platoon leader’s voice pours from the mission, integrating an infantry platoon with two tank There has always been a friendly rivalry between the armor lot about how other countries operate and also their culture, speakers. platoons. This allowed for a true combined arms experience and infantry communities, and while the Soldiers still jab at just integrating with them with their tactics and ours and “Alpha, get ready. Top hat. Top hat. Top hat.” Two 62-ton and an additional challenge for Burkhart and his platoon each other, many of them developed newfound appreciations. maneuvering our tanks in another country, learning the terrain behemoths maneuver forward of the berm. “3. 2. 1. Fire!” leaders. “The tanks have a lot of firepower, for as much as we rag and letting our Soldiers learn as well,” said 1st Lt. Henry With a deafening boom, bursts of flame leap from the main “There was a bit of a learning curve, but we definitely on them,” said Northrop, an infantry officer from Fair Lawn, Rodriquez, platoon leader, 3rd Platoon, Co. A, 3-8 CAV. guns. validated that it is possible and that we can effectively New Jersey. “They bring a lot to the fight, especially with the Smoke and dust filled the air as targets were engaged from This was the scene at the culminating combined arms incorporate the infantry and the Brads with a tank company,” CALFEX, where we were able to have the tanks up supporting all directions from mortars, light armored vehicles, tanks, and live-fire exercise during Eager Lion 2017, a two-week-long Burkhart said. “The dismounts were primarily used for any us against those armored threats, allowing my Bradleys to dismounted infantrymen. multinational combined training exercise. Soldiers from kind of a dismounted objective where we would need to enter move up and set in position. They were suppressing while “We were out on the far western side,” said Rodriquez, an the 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment “Warhorse,” 3rd and clear a building or to clear any type of dead space. my dismounts moved out. So those larger pieces of support armor officer and native of Artesia, New Mexico. “We were Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division spent We used all the capabilities that they have. We got to shoot that don’t always get worked in when you’re doing platoon or blasting away in our four tanks and also our commander’s tank. that time building interoperability with their partners. Javelins out here. We got to shoot AT-4s out here. That’s one smaller training really allowed us to train those pieces. How He gave a fire command. We’d all fire at the same time, utilizing “Eager Lion is a fantastic exercise,” said Lt. Col. Brian of the capabilities that the tank company does not have. It was all those things are incorporated is something you don’t get our fires, the Jordanian fires, their weapon systems, mortars, McCarthy, commander of the Warhorse Battalion. “We’ve definitely a challenge. I’d say I learned a lot just incorporating to do a lot, so being able to do that, and to do that in a foreign tanks. We had F-16s going off. And just using all these different been here about two weeks, and it’s been a great exercise to the different skill sets that each platoon brings to the fight.” country, was really a cool experience.” munitions and seeing how lethal we are all together was amazing test both the interoperability between the American Army, Through joint, combined cooperation, the troops – U.S., “I thought it was a great overall experience for [the Soldiers] and definitely something I will always remember.” u American Marine Corps, Italian forces, and of course, our Italian, and Jordanian – learned the differences and similarities hosts, the Jordanians. It’s been a great opportunity for us to in each other’s tactic, practices, vehicles and weapon systems. increase our lethality and develop some great relationships.” Working together, bridging the language gap, and learning The seventh iteration of the annual exercise began for the about their brothers-in-arms helped to build camaraderie, Warhorse Soldiers May 7, when they convoyed with their cohesion and understanding, strengthening relationships not equipment from a logistics support area in Wadi Shadiya to only company to company, platoon to platoon, or squad to a vast training area, where they would spend the next 10 squad, but also Soldier to Soldier. days conducting mounted maneuvers with tanks and M2A3 “I think [my Soldiers] gained an appreciation for other Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, dismounted maneuvers services and other nations, other militaries, simple stuff, like with infantry Soldiers, a live-fire accuracy screening test communicating with a significant language gap,” said 1st Lt. range, an unknown distance live-fire range, and a squad live- Kevin Northrop, platoon leader, 3rd Platoon, Company C, 3-8 fire. CAV. “For one thing, whenever you deploy, you’re not going Company A commander, Capt. Colby Burkhart, said his to deploy to a region and just be working with American primary training objective was direct fire control measures, Soldiers or just the Army. You’re going to be working with but during the course of the training, he managed to get more the Marines or other services. Most likely, you’ll be working learning opportunities than he anticipated. with other nations. That’s hard to replicate, so [it’s good] for “I think we have a newfound understanding of how to the [Soldiers] to get to do that on their level where they don’t incorporate the required control measures,” said the armor really see it that much. I think this is the first time for most of officer and Glendale, Arizona native. “I think we learned it’s them where they got to work with other nations. I think that Pfc. Mikel Chamen, an infantryman from San Diego, Calif., assigned to Company A, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry definitely a different environment. The weather always plays was a big takeaway and one of the reasons this was really Division, engages a target with an FGM-148 Javelin Portable Anti-Tank Missile at a company-level combined arms live-fire exercise May 14 in Wadi Shadiya, Jordan as part of Exercise Eager Lion 2017. Eager Lion was a two-week-long multinational exercise with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, in order to exchange military expertise a factor. We can have all the technology in the world, and a important for them to experience.” and improve interoperability among partner nations. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Leah R. Kilpatrick) 19 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 20 Spc. Tyler Lam, an infantryman assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Greywolf trains for urban combat Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, lays down suppressive fire during a major military Photos by Staff Sgt. Leah Kilpatrick exercise in southwest Asia. (U.S. Army photo 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team by Staff Sgt. Leah R. Kilpatrick) 1st Cavalry Division

Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, practice using tanks and infantry fighting vehicles for cover when approaching an urban target during a major military exercise in southwest Asia. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Leah R. Kilpatrick)

Sgt. Brian Richardson, an infantryman assigned to Under cover of smoke, cavalry scouts from Headquarters Company B, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd and Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry engages targets at a reflexive fire range during a major Division maneuver a stairwell during the offensive phase military exercise in southwest Asia. (U.S. Army photo by of a major military exercise in southwest Asia. (U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Leah R. Kilpatrick) photo by Staff Sgt. Leah R. Kilpatrick)

21 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 22 For the love of the sea U.S. Army Central names best warrior nco Soldier spotlight By Sgt. Kimberly Browne, U.S. Army Central ailing the high seas or transporting cargo with an “I love our field so much,” she said. “It’s such an ocean vessel, are not actions typically associated amazing job and rewarding.” Swith the U.S. Army. However, with more than 150 Therefore, Stone went through an eight month warrant military occupational specialties; operating and manning officer basic course about three years ago. Spc. Thomas Jancosek, a Soldier with 3rd Armored a logistics support vessel and transporting cargo by Today, Stone is the 2nd mate and navigational officer Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, competitor in the U.S. Army Central Best Warrior, means of the sea falls within an MOS, and the scope of of a 1,600 ton vessel, the LSV-5 MG Charles P. Gross. perseveres through one of the last obstacles on the air the 411th Transportation Detachment. A vessel capable of hauling 2,000 short tons of weight, assault obstacle course at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Sarah Stone, is a Soldier who and is maintained by a 31 person crew, whose morale May 23. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Kelly Gary) chose to pursue a career on the open water. Stone is the falls in the capable hands of Stone. 2nd mate navigational officer for the Logistics Support “She cares a lot for the Soldiers,” said Chief By Sgt. Kelly Gary, Task Force Spartan Vessel-5, Maj. Gen. Charles P. Gross, where she ensures Warrant Officer 3 Patrick Thompson, the 1st mate and oldiers from across the U.S. Army Central area of “There were a lot of excellent competitors here.” operational readiness of the equipment, personnel and executive officer of the MG Charles P. Gross and 411th Soperations came together for the USARCENT Best Owens admitted that although his qualifications brought functioning aspects of cargo transportation and ports. Transportation Detachment. “She’s a very hard charger, Warrior Competition, at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, May him to being selected, it was also his NCO leadership Initially, Stone, a 13 year Soldier, entered the U.S. does not like being told no, very proactive and does 22-25. that aided in making the opportunity and training a Army as a watercraft operator at the suggestion of a not let any obstacles stand in her way when getting The competition was broken down into a Soldier reality. Owens felt confident when it came to the Army recruiter. something accomplished.” category for E-4 and below and noncommissioned Physical Fitness Test, but admitted he struggled with “I thought it sounded like a very interesting job,” the Stone expressed her own feelings about the Soldiers as officer category for E-5 to E-7. Despite two Soldiers certain portions of the competition, namely the 12-mile Woodbridge, Virginia, native said. “I like to be outside well. falling out due to medical reasons, 17 pulled through to ruck march. and travel the world … I enjoy being on the ocean.” “I am very proud to be a member of this crew,” she the last event. “I came in strong the first eight miles and then my body As the daughter of a Marine officer, she wanted to said. “We have an excellent crew, just a group of really The first day tested the competitor’s knowledge and said you are not as good as you thought you were,” said follow in his footsteps and pursue a commission. But good Soldiers and good personalities that mesh well written skills with an exam and an essay. Fitness and Owens. “But I persevered through it.” her feelings for her job got in the way. together.” fortitude was put to the test on the second day when USARCENT Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Dostie expressed Nevertheless, besides her Soldiers, Stone has a love for participants took an Army Physical Fitness Test, then his belief that the U.S. Army thrives on constructive competition. the ocean that goes hand-in-hand with her passion for traversed the air assault obstacle course. Master Sgt. Ernesto Castaneda, noncommissioned “I can think of no other event like the best warrior to her job. officer-in-charge for Physical Challenge I, said the task is bring out the individual excellence in all that compete,” “I enjoy being on the ocean,” she said. “It is absolutely daunting on a multitude of levels. The Physical Challenge said Dostie. “The best warrior competition recognizes beautiful and you’re away from everything else. It’s hard I consists of obstacles such as a rope confidence climb, Soldiers that demonstrate commitment to army values, to explain but it’s probably one of the best jobs in the barbed-wire low crawl, and weaving over-under beams. embody the warrior ethos, and represent the force of the Army.” “A lot of people, when they think about the obstacle future.” Moreover, even as much as she enjoys her job, her course, they only think of the physical aspect,” said Owens agreed these Soldiers are the upcoming leaders job is essential to hauling cargo and military equipment. Castaneda. “Yet, it is also very mental, often the fear of the Army and encouraged both lower enlisted and Thus, the nomenclature of her vessel, logistics support of heights or confidence in strength presents more NCOs of all walks to strive to better themselves. He vessel. challenges.” expressed that one of his main motivations is to show the “We are a transportation asset, we can move large On day three Soldiers got up before dawn to start the nine Soldiers under his charge what can be accomplished amounts of cargo for a very inexpensive price,” said first leg of the 12-mile ruck march. Each competitor with hard work and perseverance. Stone. “The only down side to us, as to why we will not made the march under three hours and then immediately “This competition was about showing my Soldiers be utilized is predominately, time, we’re slow moving.” geared up for the range. Due to a severe dust storm and it could be done, especially from a National Guard Ultimately, Stone has an affinity for her job and makes low visibility the range was not able to open and left the standpoint,” said Owens. “This is just one way I am sure to tell all she can about it. competitors minus one event. trying to lead from the front.” “I love it. You’re always learning, you never stop The last day, all of the participants were eager to find Dostie expressed that through the series of mentally learning in this job,” she said. “There’s always technology out who had clinched the winning titles and would go and physically exhausting events, the warriors pushed changing or just something you didn’t know, you get on to the U.S. Northern Command Best Warrior. themselves harder over the past few days than many to develop yourself more on a constant basis, it never Staff Sgt. Blake Owens, a squad leader with Company Soldiers ever will. stops.” u B, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, said he was “They will return to their units better trained, more on pins and needles when he heard his name announced proficient at warrior tasks and skills,” said Dostie. “They Chief Warrant Officer 2 Sarah Stone, 2nd mate and navigational officer of the LSV-5 Maj. Gen. Charles P. Gross, looks over a digital map of the as the Best Warrior NCO. will be more confident in their ability to be effective as area before debarking on a container swap mission, June 13, at Kuwait “It was a sigh of relief, almost disbelief,” said Owens. Soldiers and leaders.” u Naval Base, Kuwait. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kimberly Browne) 23 Desert Voice 2017 Summer 24 HERE IT COMES

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