www.infantryassn.com SPRING 2018 SPRING

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lebanon Junction, KY PERMIT NO. 240 CONTENTS NATIONAL INFANTRY ASSOCIATION OFFICERS Chairman/CEO ★ ARTICLES ★ LTG (Ret) Thomas F. Metz Immediate Past Chairman MG (Ret) William B. Steele 7 Tet Offensive Myths Dispelled Secretary/Treasurer LTC (Ret) Mac Plummer Directors COL (Ret) Johnny W. Brooks Doughboy Awards COL (Ret) Robert E. Choppa 9 CSM (Ret) William M. Grant COL (Ret) Ed House Mr. Jim Irvin CSM (Ret) Michael A. Kelso CSM (Ret) Steven W. McClaflin 11 Protecting the Arm that Powers the Fist COL (Ret) Ralph Puckett COL (Ret) L.C. Rush COL (Ret) William Simril Mr. Paul Voorhees CSM (Ret) Matthew C. Walker CSM (Ret) Richard W. Weik CSM (Ret) Willie Wells ★ DEPARTMENTS ★ Legal Advisor COL (Ret) Bob Poydasheff Messages from the Chairman, President Ex-Officio 4 MG Gary M. Brito BG Christopher T. Donahue and Chief of Infantry CSM Scott A. Brzak CSM Martin S. Celestine NIA STAFF 16 NIMF Update: Pete Jones Leads NIMF President/COO COL (Ret) Richard Nurnberg Director of Operations Hall of Valor: Drew Dennis Dix Stephanie Haveron 17 Awards Manager Amanda Banta Editor 18 West Point Infantry Ball Jill Tigner Graphics Editor Braelen Hill 19 News and Awards Non-Discrimination Statement Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use, or patronage, without regard to the race, creed, color, sex, age, or national origin of the purchaser, user or patron.

Cover Photo: Soldiers in combat during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam

Copyright Notice: All materials submitted to the Infantry Bugler become the property of the Infantry Bugler. The author/photographer assigns all rights, including subsidiary rights, for the material. This includes rights to make or authorize reprints, to reprint the material in other National Infantry Association publications, and to grant the materials to others without charge for republication, all with appropriate credit to the Call for Submissions submitter. The Infantry Bugler, in return, grants the submitter the right of republication after original publication in the Infantry Bugler, subject only to his giving proper credit to the Infantry Bugler. Reproduction, in whole or part, of this publication without the expressed or written consent of Do you have an opinion concerning one of the stories in this issue? the National Infantry Association is expressly prohibited. Views expressed by advertisers and/or contributing writers are not necessarily those of the We would like to print your responses in our Letters to the Editor National Infantry Association or this magazine’s editorial staff. column. Have you researched a topic that is of interest to Infantry Trademark: The Infantry Bugler, a quarterly magazine published by the National Infantry Association, is protected by a Soldiers? Submit it to us as an article for the Infantry Bugler. Do you registered trademark. ISSN#1933-6225 have personal experiences or valuable lessons learned that would Publisher is SouthComm Publishing Co., Inc., 7766 Ewing Blvd., Suite 200, Florence, KY 41042; southcomm@ benefit other readers?Let us be your vehicle for delivering those southcomm.com, telephone (859) 426-2260 or (800) 933-3903. thoughts. Send your submissions to [email protected]. For further information regarding the contents of this publication, please contact Jill Tigner at the National Infantry Association, Infantry Bugler, 1775 Legacy Way, Suite 210, Columbus, GA 31903; e-mail [email protected]; telephone (706) 323-2560. For advertising information, contact Darren Hinerman by email at [email protected] or by phone at (678) 624-1075 ext 224.

★ MESSAGES ★

From the Chairman From the President

Please note our announcement on page 9 in I am again appreciative to be this Infantry Bugler about teaming with the able to recognize our two Association of the United States Army (AUSA). Official Sponsors of the If you are a National Infantry Association (NIA) National Infantry member, you are now an AUSA member too, Association, Phantom unless you opt out. The benefits of being an Products and Defense AUSA member are significant, and I strongly Products and Services recommend that NIA members take full Group (DPSG, USA). advantage. The teaming of our associations I encourage all of our members LTG (Ret) Thomas F. Metz to reciprocate by supporting will make both of us stronger. On the NIA side, COL (Ret) Richard Nurnberg them and their products. we are pushing closer and closer to the important target of 10,000 members, which Since the last issue, the Maneuver Warfighter Conference, originally is a benchmark many companies, corporations and other activities use as a scheduled for last September, was postponed due to Hurricane Irma. The milestone to decide whether or not to support (e.g. The Doughboy Award Dinner) conference was held the week of 8 January and the 2017 Doughboy and advertise (e.g. Bugler). So, spread the word to fellow Infantrymen and Awards Dinner took place on 9 January. It was a great success with supporters to join the National Infantry Association and also get a membership in excellent attendance, and I hope that some of you had the opportunity to the AUSA. With your help, we can hit the 10,000 target. attend. GEN William Hartzog and CSM Gary Carpenter spoke eloquently In order to join the Army after high school graduation, I needed my parents’ and movingly about their experiences as Infantrymen and about what it approval to enlist due to being only 17 years of age. That was June 1966 and the takes to be one. Mrs. Barbara Carpenter also spoke about her experience Vietnam War was a growing concern to Americans. Five years later, I was as an Infantry wife, and the attendees responded enthusiastically. commissioned as an Infantry Officer and those five years were very dark ones for Even though the 2017 dinner took place in 2018, the 2018 our Nation. Doughboy Awards Dinner is tentatively scheduled for the evening of 23 The Vietnam War seriously divided the Nation, and to some degree, continues October, during the week of the 2018 Maneuver Warfighter Conference. I don’t know who will be the recipients, but I’m hopeful that you will mark to do so. After 43 years in uniform and eight years retired, I’m like the Farmer’s that date on your calendars. The NIA is pleased to be able to support the Insurance advertisement, “I know a thing or two because I’ve seen a thing or two.” Chief of Infantry in this endeavor. One of those is what I call “coming full circle.” For example, when I began my The announcement has been made that MG Eric Wesley has military career, we were training intensively for and fighting a counter-insurgency been nominated for promotion and assignment to TRADOC as war. When we put the Vietnam War behind us in the mid 1970s, we focused our Deputy CG and Director of Futures at Army Capabilities Integration attention on a conventional war against a peer enemy army. Center. By the time you read this, he may be on his way, and we wish Toward the end of my career, I found myself commanding the Multi-National him the very best. Replacing him as CG, MCOE will be a great Corps-Iraq and fighting a counter insurgency war. I believe that our Nation is as Infantryman (and NIA member), MG Gary Brito, currently CG at Ft. divided today as we were during the Vietnam War. Polk. We look forward to welcoming him back to Fort Benning and Within the cyclic nature of our times, we do have some important constants, to working with him in the future. one of which is our Nation’s need for dedicated Infantry Soldiers. Missions such as In LTG Metz’ column and later in this issue you will read about the war with a peer enemy, fighting counter-insurgency campaigns, peace keeping, NIA’s affiliation with AUSA. We’re justifiably proud of this, and I believe that this results from an initiative by another great NIA member, GEN disaster relief and many more, will require dedicated Infantry Soldiers. Carter Ham, president of AUSA. He mentioned to me an idea similar to The challenges ahead for the Infantry are daunting, to include fighting in an this at the 2016 Doughboy Awards Dinner, and all of a sudden, here we urban terrain of millions of people, only a fraction of whom are our enemy; hunting are. Many of you will not be old enough, as I am, to remember that in the terrorists across continents; or deploying on short notice to save lives from natural or mid-1950s, the combat arms associations, including the old manmade disasters. Dedicated Infantry Soldiers might also face recruits who don’t Infantryman’s Association, realized that while they all did well supporting have the strength, stamina or values needed for their missions, and only 24/7 their branches, there was a need for an organization that would support leadership will get them ready for those and for combat. Soldiers might also face a the whole Army so they gave up their charters to form AUSA. That was a public that is not as friendly as it has been since 9/11. What if the nation can’t great move for all of us, and now we’re renewing that affiliation. We protect itself via an all-volunteer force and must turn to some type of conscription hope this will also do as well for both associations. system? These drastic situations might not be in our future, but we’ll need the best Finally, to our NIA members, again my thanks for your continuing Infantry we can produce to protect our Nation. Infantry Soldiers totally dedicated to support, especially that of our active chapters that promote the branch their branch, unit, Army and Nation! and the Association through their activities. As of this writing, our membership has passed the 9,200 mark on its way to our goal of 10,000 and beyond. The brotherhood we share and support comprises America’s best.

4 InfantryAssn.com InfantryAssn.com 5 ★ MESSAGES ★

From the Chief of Infantry improved integrated weapons training course of fire based on combat criteria strategy that is designed to evolve and are designed to increase Soldier with technological enhancements but lethality. Forty target exposures maintains a train-as-we-fight remain constant (thus requiring no philosophy. The success of this additional ammunition resources), but concept is dependent on six the qualification ratings and target principles, broken down into the exposures change slightly. The following six tables: qualification ratings are qualified (23- 27); marksman (28-31); sharpshooter Table I - Preliminary Marksmanship (32-35); and expert (36-40). Instruction and Evaluation: The To increase lethality and test foundation upon which the Soldier Soldiers’ improved marksmanship builds the skill sets to sustain him skills, target exposures increased through becoming a successful and from four to six exposures at 250 proficient marksman. During this meters and from four to five phase, his first line leader instructs exposures at 300 meters. The and tests him on the basic knowledge, employment of four firing positions skills, tasks and actions that govern using 4 x 10 round magazines BG Christopher T. Donahue the use and employment of his requires Soldiers to identify and weapon system. conduct three magazine and firing Lethality is one of the most critical position changes as the qualification aspects of the Infantry. The Infantry Table II - Pre-Live Fire Simulations table continues to run to better Soldier’s ultimate mission—to close (EST/SVT): The Soldier learns basic replicate combat conditions. This with and destroy the enemy by fire and advanced engagement techniques firing sequence reduces qualification and maneuver—demands lethality to in a virtual environment using iron firing times by an average of three to win this close combat fight. Precision sights and some magnified optics. six minutes per iteration over the marksmanship is the key to lethality. This includes both CBRN and night old qualification course of fire. This Our existing qualification standards fire qualification requirements as well. saves a significant amount of time fail to accurately reflect the basic for leaders to utilize in their tactical employment skills, leader Table III – Drills: Hands-on training training schedules. commands and the requisite sense of of critical tactical employment skills This new and improved urgency essential during reloading, required of all Soldiers. This is also Marksmanship training increases changing positions or fighting from used for concurrent training during Soldier lethality and enhances cover on today’s battlefield. live fire events. Soldiers’ ability to fight, win and We must improve our survive on the battlefield. marksmanship training to increase Table IV – Basic Grouping and Zero: Soldier lethality. The new rifle Grouping exercises for the primary marksmanship course of fire—still optic, built upon the skills trained with 40 rounds—includes prone during previous training events. Send Us Your News unsupported (10 rounds); prone Zeroing exercise includes supported (10 rounds); kneeling confirmation at distance using new NIA chapters and supported (10 rounds); and standing zero target. members, share the supported (10 rounds). These four news of your events and firing positions more accurately Table V – Practice: Live fire tactical awards by submitting replicate combat conditions. Under engagements that include all firing fire, they can be readily assumed positions, target presentations and them for publication in whenever the Soldier receives enemy sequences that are more difficult than the Infantry Bugler. contact and finds it necessary to the test. deliver aimed fire on an enemy. Each Email your text and high firing position provides a stable Table VI – Qualification: Army- platform and body position that standard demonstration of resolution (approximately maximizes cover and concealment performance of basic tactical 1 MB each) photos to from enemy fire. employment of the weapon system [email protected] Our new rifle marksmanship using the primary optic. The changes training strategy is tied to an to qualification standards replicate a

6 InfantryAssn.com ★ COVER STORY ★ BY DAVID VERGUN, ARMY NEWS SERVICE

REFLECTING ON VIETNAM Tet Offensive Myths Dispelled

Around midnight on 30 January 1968, class, Hagel, who had been in country U.S. Army Center of Military History Vietcong and North Vietnamese Army just two months, says his mechanized and a panelist at the recent National troops began a massive surprise attack Infantry unit sustained heavy casualties Infantry Museum Leadership Seminar on U.S., South Vietnamese and Allied in the vicinity of Long Binh. on Vietnam, says there were other forces across South Vietnam. The attack was a complete surprise, myths about Tet, some of which he The Tet Offensive, as it came to be he says. What happened in Long Binh wrote about in his Center for Military known, was actually a three-phase was typical of what was happening History book, Combat Operations: campaign, lasting from 30 January to across the country. Staying the Course, October 1967 to 28 March, 5 May to 15 June and 17 The U.S. had completely September 1968. August to 23 September. underestimated the strength of the One myth, he says, was that the “The event really defined the North Vietnamese army and Vietcong North Vietnamese orchestrated a course of the rest of the [Vietnam] war guerrilla forces from South Vietnam, he number of major battles prior to Tet in and how it ended, which was a pretty says. It came as a shock to the the autumn of 1967 to draw U.S. forces inglorious ending,” says former American public and turned public away from the cities so they would be Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel. opinion against the war. in a better position to succeed in Hagel, who was with the 47th One of the myths of Tet, he says, is capturing the urban areas. Infantry Regiment in Vietnam during that it was a big enemy military victory, The real story is more interesting, Tet, spoke at the “Vietnam: The Tet he added. It wasn’t. he says. The 1967 battles were local and Offensive” panel discussion on 25 “Our military actually did very regional campaigns, planned over the January at the National Archives. well, considering,” he says. spring and summer of that year. Then a 21-year-old private first Erik B. Villard, a historian with the The idea for the Tet Offensive did

InfantryAssn.com 7 ★ COVER STORY ★

not even occur to the enemy at the assist missions and winning over the Like the Americans, the time, as their strategic planning process loyalty of the local population. communists also inflated their own tended to be short-term and at times Policy didn’t actually change until body counts, minimized their failures very chaotic, he says. after mid-1969 when Vietnamization and exaggerated their accomplishments, Also, why would they want to took hold, he says. Vietnamization he says. launch a major battle in November consisted of drawing down U.S. forces The biggest problem, he added, was 1967, just months before Tet when full and transferring responsibility to the that shortcomings were not reported up strength would be needed? There South Vietnamese forces. the chain of command and authorities wouldn’t be adequate recovery time, he The buildup of forces into 1968 refused to listen to subordinates. says, noting that the National Archives and the draw down a year later had As a result of the assessment, he provided some key documents he used already been planned on says the military leadership of Vietnam in his research. Westmoreland’s watch, he says. decided on a new approach. From then A second myth, Villard says, Merle L. Pribbenow II, an on, leaders were instructed to encourage was that GEN William author specializing in the subordinates to tell the truth, even if it Westmoreland, the Vietnam War, with five wasn’t something they wanted to hear commander of years of service in or went against their own thinking. American forces in “In the Vietnam during Gregory Daddis, an associate Vietnam, “ … the war as a CIA professor of history and director of was wedded to end, war is operative, says Chapman University’s Master of Arts this notion of determined not by that a program in War and Society, says victory widespread another myth was that the U.S. media through military might but myth was that was to blame for the lack of political attrition; that by the support of the Tet will after the Tet Offensive. the way to the people.” Offensive was a There’s a tendency, he says, to succeed was to well planned find someone to blame when a bad kill enough of -Former Secretary of Defense and executed outcome occurs. the enemy that you Chuck Hagel enemy attack. Looking back 50 years ago to the crossed this That’s Tet Offensive gives everyone an imaginary threshold completely false, he opportunity to gain a better perspective and you could just kind of says, referencing documents on everything that took place, he says. grind your way toward success. and interviews of NVA and VC An important takeaway from Tet, “Westmoreland deserves far more commanders after the war. he says, is that sometimes military credit than he’s gotten in my view,” Many of those generals became action might not be the best tool in all he added. bitter with the way they and their units situations to achieve the desired He was a shrewd person who were treated by their own military and political effect. understood the value of pacification political leaders and the high numbers “In the end, war is determined not and cutting enemy supply lines, as he of casualties that resulted, he says. by military might but by the support of was doing in secret operations to cut “We focus on how we felt Army the people,” says Hagel. “We found the Ho Chi Minh Trail, Villard noted. commanders screwed up and were ourselves on the wrong side of that.” A third myth, he says, is that unprepared,” he says. “[The North He concluded, “The sacrifices made U.S. military policy changed when Vietnamese] were saying the exact same by over 56,000 Americans who lost Westmoreland was replaced by GEN things again and again.” their lives and hundreds of thousands Creighton Williams Abrams Jr. in After the war, the Vietnamese did of individuals who were wounded, and June 1968, in the middle of the tactical reviews and battle studies, just all who served, were never really given Tet Offensive. as the U.S. Army did, to learn lessons much recognition for an assignment Abrams and Westmoreland saw and assess strengths and weaknesses, they didn’t choose. But they served and mostly eye-to-eye on strategy, he says. he noted. they served honorably, and did what The mission continued to be defending The takeaway from that their country asked them to do. And I bases and lines of communication, as assessment, he says, was that the think that’s a part of this story that well as air interdiction operations and communists acknowledged that a lot of needs to be told more often.” supporting pacification. the poor decision-making during Tet Pacification was a term used at the resulted from underestimating U.S. Reprinted with permission from Army time to denote counter-insurgency military response, as well as the loyalty News Service. ★ operations, which included advise and of the South Vietnamese people.

8 InfantryAssn.com ★ DOUGHBOY ★ And the Award Goes to… Presenting the 2017 Doughboy Awards in 2018

1 2 3

(1), LTG Tom Metz with CSM and Mrs. Gary Carpenter and CSM Martin Celestine (2), BG Christopher Donahue and CSM Martin Celestine present the Doughboy Award to CSM Gary Carpenter. (3), BG Christopher Donahue and CSM Martin Celestine present the Doughboy Award to GEN William Hartzog. (4), BG Christopher Donahue, LTG Tom Metz and CSM Martin Celestine present the Doughboy Order of St. Maurice to GEN William Hartzog. (5), LTG Tom Metz, GEN William Hartzog and CSM Martin 4 5 Celestine present the Shield of Sparta to Mrs. Roberta Hartzog.

The 2017 Doughboy Awards were duty, was able to attend as the new scheduled to be presented on 12 president of the National Infantry The NIA greatly appreciates the September 2017; however, Hurricane Museum Foundation. BG Christopher support of the following sponsors Irma decided to visit the Columbus- T. Donahue, the 57th Chief of Infantry, who made this great event possible. The 2018 Doughboy Fort Benning area at that time, forcing was assisted by CSM Martin Celestine Awards Dinner is tentatively cancellation of the scheduled Maneuver in presenting the Doughboy Awards to scheduled for 23 October. Warfighter Conference and Doughboy GEN (Ret) William Hartzog and CSM Awards Dinner. The conference was (Ret) Gary Carpenter. ✯ ✯ rescheduled for the week of 8 January President/CEO of the NIA LTG SYNOVUS BANK, FEDERAL 2018, and thus the dinner occurred on (Ret) Tom Metz presented the special BUSINESS COUNCIL, FIRST COMMAND FINANCIAL SERVICES, 9 January at the National Infantry Doughboy Order of St. Maurice awards CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY-FT. Museum and Soldier Center. to Hartzog and Carpenter. He also BENNING CHAPTER OF AUSA, The dinner was preceded by a presented the Shield of Sparta— RAYTHEON reception with music from a combo Heroine of Infantry—awards to ✯ ✯ ✯ from the MCoE Band and the event Roberta Hartzog and Barbara L3 TECHNOLOGIES was very successful, with more than Carpenter. Mrs. Hartzog had originally 260 people in attendance. BG Peter been presented Shield of Sparta ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ Jones, who had been the Chief of number 29 in 1998—one of the first— BAE SYSTEMS, BELL Infantry when the awardees were so this award was a representation of HELICOPTER, LOCKHEED MARTIN selected but since retired from active that original award.

InfantryAssn.com 9 Check This Out! Announcing A New Benefit

As part of our continuous additional member benefits, commitment to the strength of such as a digital subscription to the National Infantry AUSA’s professional Association (NIA), we are development publications like thrilled to announce NIA’s ARMY Magazine and AUSA expanded relationship with the News. The full range of AUSA Association of the United States member benefits is on their Army (AUSA). AUSA will website at www.ausa.org/ provide us with an expanded benefits-services. If you are audience in telling the already a member of AUSA, this Infantrymen’s story in support membership will be in addition of the Chief of Infantry and the to and not change your current Infantry Branch. NIA, as an AUSA membership. AUSA, like share your contact information Association Member in AUSA, is NIA, respects the privacy of its with AUSA, you may opt out able to extend this partnership members and will not share by contacting the NIA national to our members in the form of a contact information with anyone office at 706-323-2560 or 1-year membership in AUSA outside of the Association. by sending an email to starting 1 April 2018. If you do not wish to [email protected] before This new offer gives you participate in this benefit or 30 March 2018.

2nd Platoon Student Officers, Infantry School, Camp Benning, February 1920

10 InfantryAssn.com ★ FEATURE ★ BY CPT TRAVIS MICHELENA Protecting the Arm that Powers the Fist Reshaping the Way We Train Logistics

Soldiers assigned to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division refuel their vehicles during a rotation at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California. Photo by PFC Jordan Roy

Throughout history, powerful combating a hybrid threat, it is progressed, the relative isolation of the militaries have either learned to increasingly important to address how United States kept its manufacturing master logistics or have withered the Army’s logistics infrastructure, resources safe, however, this may not without it. Keen military strategists, security and training support the be the case in the next major conflict. such as Julius Caesar and Genghis continued combat forces. How long will U.S. stockpiles of Khan, recognized that if they cut off materiel last? Are the Nation’s logistics the supply lines (inappropriately Questions for the Future Fight assets ready to provide continual labeled the tail, but more properly the During World War I and World War support across the world? arm), they could simply wait for the II, U.S. forces had advance warning Current operational logistics enemy to weaken or grind to a halt as and a period of protection from Allied training includes abundant supply that flow of logistics trickled and stopped. forces in which to mobilize. is usually within proximity and is As the Army shifts its training focus Production facilities had years to ramp provided with little regard to time, from fighting counter-insurgency to up the war effort. As the wars distance, priorities, repair or

InfantryAssn.com 11

limitations. This raises the following logistics planning and have not support several BCTs? questions: Can combat leaders experienced the effects of limited or There is not a perfect solution, function with limited supply? When lost supply. It is vital to stretch but it would add training value for was the last time they did? Are U.S. current logistics capabilities and both the logistics unit and their forces conditioned to expect allow limited disruption of the supply customers to push the CSSB and bottomless supply? Protecting the chain in order to reinforce proper higher echelons of support from much supply lines is important in sustained contingency planning and farther away. At NTC, the CSSB could conflicts. No amount of combat power resource management. be placed at Twentynine Palms Marine can win a battle while it waits for fuel Corps Base, or for JRTC, locating the and ammunition. Training for Distance CSSB at Barksdale Air Force Base Logistics systems and units would create distances of Current Training are designed to move around 150 miles. The The current Army training structure supplies over the long extended distances focuses on preparing the combat arms distances that While would benefit both branches for conflict anywhere in the contingency supporting the the supporting and world. The first-class training facilities operations will fight is essential, supported units and personnel at the National Training likely present, yet combined because it would Center (NTC) in California, the Joint the Army trains arms commanders ensure each Readiness Training Center in with logistics in should learn what forecasts and Louisiana and the Joint Multinational proximity. During it is like to go validates Readiness Center in Germany do an training, even long without during requirements prior excellent job of preparing forces for haul transportation training. to logistics convoys. combat. However, they fail to stress assets drive just a few It would also allow logistics infrastructure or to teach miles to resupply the convoy commanders to vital lessons in resource management sustainment brigade’s gain experience with and expectations. While there are combat sustainment support complex, long-distance moves. challenges, there are no true limits on battalion (CSSB) or the brigade available supply; no consequences combat team’s (BCT) brigade Supply exist for losing supplies during enemy support battalion. This availability It is hard to imagine having a lack of action; and support moves over hours, diminishes the need for correct fuel, ammunition or parts. From my not days. tracking and reporting because experience as forward support I propose that because our resupply is never far away. What company (FSC) commander in a logistics system is so reliable, some happens when the CSSB is located 100 cavalry squadron, the FSC did its best combat leaders dismiss proper miles from the front lines and has to to provide as many supplies as

Order your NIA Infantry 11” x 14” poster or 19” x 22” print at the NIA Store infantryassn.com

14 InfantryAssn.com ★ FEATURE ★ possible. The logistics status reports device here or there (or maybe some Maneuver (AFC-M&M), it describes a sent from the supported companies small-arms fire or civilians blocking future in which the BCT will operate were not accurate, but it did not the road), but the supplies never stop. semi-independently at a high matter that much. The FSC pushed If a convoy is attacked and the operations tempo for periods up to fuel and food daily and mission- observer-coach-trainer assesses that seven days over extended lines with configured loads of ammunition any one fuel truck and one palletized load reduced reliance on echelons above time there was a firefight. The FSC’s system carrying meals ready-to-eat brigade support. In order for the Army Soldiers took a lot of pride in not (MREs) have been destroyed, then to enable the freedom of maneuver allowing logistics to be the point of why allow the resupply to continue to described in the AFC-M&M, failure. However, this is not realistic its destination? commanders and staffs must think and does not teach the supported If that destruction were reality, through all the problems, not just the company executive officers how or then the logistics planners such as the combat one. There is truth to the why to track their internal supplies, FSC leadership, battalion S4s, and the military adage “amateurs talk tactics, especially fuel. brigade support battalion support while professionals talk logistics,” but There is value in limiting available operations officer would have to work we continue to ignore the potential supplies. For instance, given a together to develop an integrated weaknesses in our support structure. constrained amount of fuel and resupply plan. They would have to put In the current structured training ammunition, what units have priority thought into alternate routes, various scenarios, the supply flow is not for the next mission? How much fuel start point times and asset touched for fear that it will interrupt is held in reserve? I would wager that management. The logistics and combat the combat training. Disruption is in this scenario the senior elements would have to fully develop exactly what will happen, but when commanders would pay more attention primary and tertiary plans, mitigate properly administered, it will have to logistics movements, distribution risks and provide cohesive support positive training value for both and sustainment rehearsals, which in rather than each element narrowly logistics and combat leaders. History turn would result in more well- focusing on its supported battalion. implores us to train, build and protect rounded leaders. No Soldiers would starve, but they the tail of the tiger as much as we do may have to eat two MREs that day the teeth, and it is imperative that we The Consequences of Loss instead of three. The loss of fuel might do not wait. While both offensive and Perhaps the most important element require tanks to turn off instead of defensive tactics and technology missing in training logistics is the idling all day or scouts to use high perpetually seek to counter one consequences of loss. Too often, mobility multipurpose vehicles another, logistics remains the true logistics assets are soft targets with (HMMWVs) instead of Bradley linchpin in victory or defeat. ★ limited radio or battlefield tracking Fighting Vehicles for a reconnaissance systems. Units are frequently left to mission. Interrupting supply chains Reprinted with permission from defend their own convoys even though will not stop Infantry Online. they do not have the equipment or the combat personnel to do so. Vehicles are missions, but it retrofitted with radio mounts and will broaden the If you haven’t received your own copy of machine-gun ring mounts, but scope for the MISSING the Infantry Bugler, we may have an security has not been made a priority. commanders and incorrect address for you and the USPS The combat battalions resist losing staff officers doesn’t forward the Bugler. forward assets to defend supply routes taking part. Please check the NIA website and click on and convoys. Logistics units are most In the the link for a list of names of members that often left to defend themselves and, Maneuver Center we’ve tried to contact unsuccessfully. If you for the most part, do a fine job of of Excellence’s or someone you know is on this list, please executing missions. However, they are latest Army contact us at [email protected] or also left relatively undisturbed during Functional 706-323-2560 to update the contact combat training center rotations. Concept for LIFE MEMBERS information. We want to find you. There may be an improvised explosive Movement and

CPT Travis Michelena CPT Travis Michelena is a senior observer-coach-trainer and the S3 for the 1-351st Brigade Support Battalion, 181st Infantry Brigade, at Fort McCoy, WI. He is currently completing his master’s degree in emergency management through Arizona State University.

InfantryAssn.com 15 ★ NIMF ★ BY CYNDY CERBIN

Pete Jones Leads National Infantry Museum Foundation

with GEN Abizaid to make a very much tied to the accomplishments living, breathing monument to that will happen next.” service and sacrifice, and then After stints at the Pentagon as have a great event to kick it off, Executive Officer to the Secretary of the just reinforced that this is the Army and at Fort Stewart, Georgia, as type of team I want to join and Deputy Commanding General of the work with.” 3rd Infantry, Jones took his last Jones’ last Army job was as position as 56th Chief of Infantry in Chief of Infantry and 2015. There, he made sure every one of Commandant of the U.S. Army the trainees he was responsible for Infantry School. The leadership visited the museum to learn more about skills he learned there and in the brotherhood they were joining. On his visit to the National Infantry Museum and previous commands will serve “Not many commandants get to say Soldier Center, U.S. Army Chief of Staff GEN Mark him well in managing a non- they have the No. 1 museum in MIlley (left) was welcomed by (left to right) CG, MCoE MG Eric Wesley and Pete Jones. profit organization. And he the United States. It’s a phenomenal believes his command of place. I took a lot of pride in it then, The Infantry’s grip on BG Pete Jones is “Army-speak” will position him as and I, obviously, take even more pride as tight as ever, despite his recent an effective bridge between the in it now.” retirement from the U.S. Army. He’s an military and civilian communities Jones says his mission at the active board member for a defense the museum serves. museum is to look five to 10 years contracting company, he consults the But he acknowledges there’ll be down the road, both to ensure the Army on his area of expertise—Russian challenges, too, like learning the museum’s ongoing financial solvency New Generation Warfare—and he’s the relationships that the museum has and to continuously enhance the new President and Chief Operating developed over the years, building new visitor’s experience. Officer of the National Infantry ones and “Honoring Soldiers and their Museum Foundation. finding his families is the core competency that A third generation Infantryman place in the will never change. What may change is with 32 years in the Army, Jones had no community. He how we do that,” he says. trouble deciding what to do after his says he’ll rely He’ll look at creative ways to Army service. “I knew I wanted a second on his leverage the world-class facility and at career—I have two kids to put through predecessors, providing new services and programs college—but more importantly, I knew I who have for military families, veterans and wanted to stay tied to the Army,” he remained civilians. He’ll work to keep the says. “I also knew that my family wanted actively attached galleries current, both with the stories to make Columbus our home.” to the museum. they tell and the way they’re told. An So, when his former battalion Pete Jones “While I example would be adding new commander and mentor, COL (Ret) Greg know nothing about running a technology to give visitors their own Camp, retired from his second career at museum, I do know that given the level virtual docent. the National Infantry Museum, the stars of support of the staff and the former Jones believes success—whether on were aligned. Jones moved into the presidents that are here, along with the battlefield or in the museum— corner office of his new non-profit world NIA and National Infantry Museum always comes down to one thing. on 12 January 2018. Foundation Chairman and CEO, LTG “The mission cannot be “I think the kicker was the Global (Ret) Tom Metz’s leadership, I’ll always accomplished without the people. It is a War on Terrorism memorial dedication,” have a lifeline,” Jones says. “The combination of the staff, the volunteers, he recalled. “The way this staff, this institutional knowledge that built this the community and the Maneuver museum, the leadership of Greg Camp place from the ground up is not Center of Excellence coming together and Ben Williams pulled that together running out the door. Everyone is still that makes this museum a success.” ★

16 InfantryAssn.com ★ HALL OF VALOR ★ BY JILL TIGNER Heroic Actions Recipient Earns Well-Deserved Medal of Honor

The 50th anniversary of the Tet Honor. His citation reads: and was Offensive is a good time to take a look at For conspicuous gallantry and successful in a Medal of Honor recipient who was intrepidity in action at the risk of his life rescuing the given the award for his heroism during above and beyond the call of duty. SSG Dix official’s wife the Vietnam War. distinguished himself by exceptional heroism and children. Drew Dennis Dix was born 14 while serving as a unit adviser. Two heavily SSG Dix’s December 1944 in West Point, New armed Viet Cong battalions attacked the personal York, but he grew up in Pueblo, province capital city of Chau Phu resulting heroic actions Colorado. Like his father, he joined the in the complete breakdown and resulted Army at age 18 in hopes of joining fragmentation of the defenses of the city. in 14 Special Forces. But because of his young SSG Dix with a patrol of Vietnamese confirmed age, he would have to wait three years soldiers was recalled to assist in defense of Viet Cong before being accepted into the elite Chau Phu. Learning that a nurse was killed in action and possibly 25 more, the corps. In the interim, he served in the trapped in a house near the center of the capture of 20 prisoners, 15 weapons, and 82nd Airborne Division’s Operation city, SSG Dix organized a relief force, the rescue of the 14 United States and free- Power Pack in the Dominican Republic. successfully rescued the nurse, and returned world civilians. The heroism of SSG Dix was By 1968, Dix had been promoted to her to the safety of the Tactical Operations in the highest tradition and reflects great staff sergeant, assigned as a military Center. Being informed of other trapped credit upon the U.S. Army. adviser to the Army of the Republic of civilians within the city, SSG Dix voluntarily Dix later received a direct Vietnam in Chau Phu, South Vietnam, led another force to rescue eight civilian commission to second lieutenant, near the Cambodian border. On 31 employees located in a building which was eventually retiring as a major after 20 January 1968, Viet Cong forces attacked under heavy mortar and small-arms fire. years of service. His last duty assignment Chau Phu in the first days of the Tet SSG Dix then returned to the center of the was Executive Officer of the 4th Offensive. Throughout that day and the city. Upon approaching a building, he was Battalion 9th Infantry, 172nd Infantry next, Dix led groups of local fighters in subjected to intense automatic rifle and Brigade (Separate), Fort Wainwright, rescuing endangered civilians and machine-gun fire from an unknown number Alaska, (1981-1982). After leaving the driving Viet Cong forces out of buildings of Viet Cong. He personally assaulted the Army, he worked as a security in the city. building, killing six Viet Cong, and rescuing consultant, ran an air service in Alaska For these actions, Dix was awarded two Filipinos. The following day SSG Dix, and served as Alaska’s deputy the Medal of Honor by President still on his own volition, assembled a commissioner for homeland security. Lyndon B. Johnson at a White House 20-man force and though under intense In 2000, he wrote a memoir about ceremony in January 1969. He became enemy fire cleared the Viet Cong out of the the fight for Chau Phu entitled, “The the first enlisted member of Special hotel, theater, and other adjacent buildings Rescue of River City” and he has made Forces to be awarded the Medal of within the city. During this portion of the numerous public speaking attack, Army of the engagements. In 2010, Dix co-founded Republic of Vietnam the Center for American Values in soldiers inspired by the Pueblo, Colorado. Dix’s vision for the heroism and success of center is to be a source for future SSG Dix, rallied and generations to learn and explore how commenced firing upon doing the right thing for family, the Viet Cong. SSG Dix community and country will keep captured 20 prisoners, America great. A city of just 110,000, including a high-ranking Pueblo is the hometown of four Medal Viet Cong official. He of Honor recipients, including William then attacked enemy J. Crawford, Raymond G. Murphy, Carl troops who had entered L. Sitter and Dix. the residence of the Dix currently resides in Mimbres, Deputy Province Chief New Mexico. ★

InfantryAssn.com 17 ★ WEST POINT INFANTRY BALL ★

On 2 February 2018 in Eisenhower Hall, the West Point NIA Chapter hosted its annual Infantry Ball. Representing the NIA was LTC (Ret) McDonald Plummer, USMA ‘70 and member of the NIA board of directors. Guest of honor was MG (Ret) Peter J. Boylan, who during his active duty career, served two tours in Vietnam, participated in the invasion of Grenada with the 82nd Airborne Division, commanded the 10th Mountain Division and served as an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the Military Academy. Among other activities at the ball were the traditional Grog Ceremony, a silent auction and presentation of Order of St. Maurice and Shield of Sparta awards.

LTG Robert Caslen, USMA Superintendant, leads the toasting before dinner.

Cadet Sara Emsley receives an award on behalf of her cadet company (E1) from Rob Milmore (First Command) for the cadet company with the highest number to branch Infantry. LTG Robert L. Caslen presents MG (Ret) Peter J. Boylan with the Order of St Maurice (Primicerius).

USMA 2018 OSM and Shield of Sparta recipients, (left to right), Mr. Paul H. Paulette, MAJ Barry Ammons, MAJ Joel Radunzel, Mrs. Jill Radunzel, SFC Matthew Horton, Mrs. Ameret Budihas, Mrs. Shelli Caslen, CPT JD Caddell, Mrs. Kathleen Boylan, MAJ JP Mrs. Ameret Budihas is awarded the Shield of Sparta by LTC Levay, Mr. Peter J. Boylan Jr. and MG (Ret) Peter J. Boylan (Ret) Mac Plummer.

18 InfantryAssn.com ★ NEWS & AWARDS ★

On 2 December 2017 during the 175th Infantry’s Annual Pass CSM Chip Wahlenmeier and COL (Ret) William J. In Review, the following members of the Regimental Butler presented the Order of St. Maurice to MAJ R. Association and 1-175th Battalion received the Order of Saint Bryan Hensley, chaplain of the 509th Signal Battalion. Maurice for their dedication to the Infantry: (left to right) BG Hensley previously served as the battalion chaplain (Ret) Thomas Johnson, BG Sean Casey, SFC Michael Cole and for 2-503 IN (ABN) from 2009-2011 in Vicenza, Italy MAJ (Ret) Paul Gump. and Kunar, Logar and Wardak Provinces, Afghanistan.

On 23 February 2018, St. Mark Chapter On 2 December 2017 at the annual 278th ACR Cavalry Ball in Pigeon President SFC Michael Atchison awarded Forge, Tennessee, Ashleigh Lee was presented the Shield of Sparta SSG Scott Dario (left) the Order of St. Award. On hand for the presentation were, (left to right), Adjutant Maurice, (Legionnaire) at a chapter dinner in General of Tennessee MG Terry M. “Max” Haston and his wife Anne, Villa Bassana, Italy. Ashleigh Lee and her husband SGM Bobby E. Lee Jr.

On 18 September 2017, SFC Christopher Taffoya, the Platoon Sergeant of Caisson Platoon was presented Damaris Schuler was recently presented the Shield of the Order of Saint Maurice Centurion level by LTC Sparta award. Pictured with her are, (left to right), LTC Jody Shouse. The ceremony took place in true Caisson Chuck Slagle, SSG Justin Myers, SFC Jeffrey Williams and fashion on horseback at Summerall Field by Black Cain Schuler. The ceremony was at Fort Jackson, 3-39 Jack’s grave. Infantry Battalion, 165th Infantry Brigade.

InfantryAssn.com 19 ★ NEWS & AWARDS ★

On 02 Feb 2018, April D. Houten was presented the Shield of Sparta during a On 12 November 2017, the 65th Infantry Honor Task Force presented ceremony with the New Hampshire veterans from the 65th Infantry Regiment of Puerto Rico the Order of St. National Guard. She is pictured with her Maurice Medal. Included among the recipients was the late SFC Pedro J. husband CSM (Ret) Stephen Houten. Vanga-Escobar, whose award was accepted by three generations of his family. Back Row: SGT Michele Iris Olson, U.S. Army; Anthony Melé, chairman 65th Infantry Honor Task Force; Pedro Vanga Jr, Vietnam veteran U.S. Army; Jorge Luis Vanga, Vietnam veteran U.S. Army; Front Row: Elba Iris Vanga and Lourdes Vanga.

On 27 Jan 2018 at Operating Base On 23 February 2018, Past Fenty in Afghanistan, LTC James On 11 January 2018, COL (Ret) H.T. President of the St. Mark Uptgraft and CSM Joseph Hissong Fincher received the Order of St. chapter SGM (Ret) Frank Lauer presented the Order of St. Maurice Maurice from BG (Ret) Mick Zais—a awarded SSG Steven Thompson to 1SG Adam McMurray, (right), fellow Infantry officer and Fincher’s the Order of St. Maurice, shown here with CPT John S. Tilley son-in-law. The award was presented (Legionnaire) at a chapter the Company Commander for D Co at the American Legion in Chapin, dinner in Villa Bassana, Italy. 1-502 IN (ABN). South Carolina.

20 InfantryAssn.com ★ NEWS & AWARDS ★

On 02 December 2017, two Order of St. Maurice presentations were made in Vicenza, Italy. (Left) SFC Michael Atchison presents to SSG Andrew Hopkins and (right) SFC Matthew Staaf presents to SSG Benjamin Lake.

On 22 February 2018, 1SG Antonio Paparelli presented the Order of St. Maurice (Legionnaire) to SFC Michael Duvall of the St. Mark chapter.

On 02 February 2018, LTC Eric B. Hogancamp, pictured with BG Shawn M. O’Brien, was presented the Order of St. Maurice, Centurion, during a ceremony with the New Hampshire National Guard.

On 23 February 2018, SSG On 4 November 2017, SP5 On 18 November 2017 at the 111th Infantry Benjamin Lake awarded SGT (P) Bob Spangler was 61st Regimental Mess, Plymouth Meeting, Nathan Depretis the Order of St. presented the Order of St. Pennsylvania, BG (Ret) Jerry Beck presented Maurice, (Legionnaire) at a Maurice during a tribute the Centurion Order of St. Maurice to SGM chapter social in Vicenza, Italy. celebration at Veterans (Ret) Roman Tymczyszyn. Plaza in Longview, Texas. InfantryAssn.com 21 AIRBORNE’S MAGAZINE!

VOICE OF THE AMERICAN AIRBORNE ASSOCIATION (AAA) Why Belong to the NIA? AND • To support the work of the ONLY organization representing the DIGEST OF THE AIRBORNE WORLD! entire Infantry and the Chief of Infantry. The combined strength of our (The AAA is a chartered, non-profit association of vertical envelopment warfare personnel) membership ensures that the Infantry voice is heard by decision makers. • To share the camaraderie of like-minded soldiers and citizens Send for a free copy of the Quarterly. who believe in maintaining the Infantry spirit, and to help recognize If you like what you see, then join! outstanding Infantrymen. Only $17.50/year, US, APO, FPO Canada, $25 (US)—Foreign $30 (US). PER YEAR $17.50 US/APO/FPO—$25 (US) CANADA—$30 (US) FOREIGN • To grow professionally through participation in Association (Subscription includes membership dues in AAA) activities, programs and publications. FILL OUT THE FORM AND SEND IT TODAY! YOU’LL LIKE WHAT YOU SEE! SEND TO: • To support a new, expanded National Infantry Museum and the educational values associated with its contents. AMERICAN AIRBORNE ASSOCIATION/AIRBORNE QUARTERLY 10301 McKINSTRY MILL ROAD, NEW WINDSOR, MD 21776-7903

Name:______Phone:______MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Address:______Apt. #:______City: ______State:_____ Nine Digit Zip:______-______Email:______@______Fax:______Please Check One: [ ] Change of Address [ ] New Membership Website:______[ ] Membership Renewal Chapter Affiliation______Army____ Navy____ Air Force____ USMC____ Coast Guard____ Qualification: Para____ Glider____ Air Assault____ Troop Carrier____ SEAL____ USMC Recon____ Sp. Forces____ Air/Sea Rescue____ WWII Paramarine____ Glider Pilot____ Free Rank/Grade First Name MI Last Name Sex Fall____ Other:______On the Internet? Visit us at www.AmericanAirborneAssn.org

Mailing Address

City State Zip + 4 Digit

Active Duty or Civilian Job Title Unit, Firm or Company

Office Phone Home Phone Email

ANNUAL DUES: ALL APPLICANTS OTHER THAN THOSE LISTED BELOW: [ ] 1 yr. - $20 [ ] 2 yrs. - $38 [ ] 3 yrs. - $55

Trainees, Enlisted E-2/E-6; Officer Candidates; 2LT in IOBC, GS-8, DACS and below, Wage Board 12 DAC and below: [ ] OSUT 1yr. - $10 [ ] 1 yr. - $14 [ ] 2 yrs. - $25 [ ] 3 yrs. $36

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP – ANNUAL DUES: [ ] Corporation - $300 [ ] Small Business - $100

LIFE MEMBERSHIP: [ ] Up to age 65 - $350 (Payable in full or in $25.00 monthly installments by credit card.) [ ] Check here to pay in $25 monthly installments [ ] 65 & Older - $125 (Payable in full)

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: [ ] Active Army [ ] National Guard [ ] Army Reserve [ ] Army Retired [ ] Other Military Branch [ ] Infantry Veteran [ ] DOD Civil Service [ ] US Defense Industry [ ] Civilian Supporter [ ] Consultant

PAYMENT OPTIONS: [ ] Check: Payable to NIA [ ] MC [ ] Visa

Name as on Card

______Card Number Expiration Date

Signature 1775 Legacy Way, Suite 210, Columbus, GA 31903 Tel. (706) 323-2560 • Fax (706) 323-0967 [email protected] • www.infantryassn.com

The National Infantry Association would like to give a special thanks to our Corporate Members: Aaron & Clements, Inc. Finish Line Awards Janus Research Group, Inc. Pezold Management Associates, Inc. AUSA, Chattahoochee Valley- First Command Kennon, Parker, Ft. Benning Chapter Financial Services Duncan & Davis Phantom Products, Inc. B&B Beverage Co. Flournoy Development Kinetic Credit Union Ranger Joe’s Company BAE Systems, L3 Technologies Raytheon Electronic Systems Fort Benning Partnership Aerospace Group Seiler Instrument and BAE Systems, Platforms GEICO Leonardo DRS, Inc. Manufacturing Co., Inc. & Svcs., Combat Vehicles GEICO Direct Liberty Utilities SouthComm Batson-Cook Company Publishing Co., Inc. Georgia Power Company Lockheed Martin Bell Helicopter Synovus Bank Greater Columbus Chamber MCW Tax & Business Services Columbus Convention of Commerce TSYS and Visitors Bureau Nammo Talley, Inc. Headquarter Nissan U.S. Cavalry &

Columbus Water Works National Defense Corp./ Armor Association Holbrook Service Co., Inc. AMTEC Corp. DPSG USA, Inc. Warrior Innovation Holiday Inn Express & Suites National Security Associates Eckert Building Contractors Worldwide Army Rangers, Inc. Hurt, Norton and Associates Orbital ATK Armament Federal Business Council, Inc. Systems Division Yorktown Systems Group