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18-MCJT17983 G500H Blackhawk Ad-8.125x10.875-ArmyAviation.indd 1 3/11/19 2:31 PM 34 Contents July 31, 2019, Vol. 68, No. 7
TO THE FIELD
10 10 Aviation Branch Chief Update By MG David J. Francis 12 Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch Update By CW5 Jonathon P. Koziol 14 Branch Command Sergeant Major Update By CSM Brian N. Hauke 18 Combat Readiness Center Update By COL Jason L. Miller 20 Reserve Component Aviation Update By COL Andrew D. Cecil 34 22 128th Aviation Brigade Update By SFC Matthew Harris 24 AMRDEC Tech Talk By Mr. Daniel McClintock 26 Ask the Flight Surgeon By CPT Frank Stafford, D.O. SPECIAL FOCUS — Simulation & Training
28 Doctrine Update By COL George G. Ferido and COL Jimmy L. Meacham, U.S. 36 Army Retired 30 Common Challenges and Means to Mitigate Them By LTC Eric Megerdoomian and numerous DES SMEs 34 Building Aviation Readiness & Lethality at the National Training Center By LTC Clint Cody, LTC Peter Schmitt, and LTC Cameron Gallagher 36 Focusing on the Deep Fight to Build Lethality: A JMRC Perspective By MAJ Troy Gillett and MAJ Durward Johnson 38 Reflections on a Year in Atropia – Good, Bad, and Ugly 38 By LTC Jason Davis
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 3 July 31, 2019 42 Contents SAVE THE BATTLES July 31, 2019, Vol. 68, No. 7 FOR THE FIELD. JOIN FORCES WITH TRU FOR EFFORTLESS, SPECIAL FOCUS END-TO-END TRAINING SOLUTIONS. 46 40 40 The Simulator Instructor Operator: Setting Conditions for When the mission requires a total training solution, TRU Simulation + Success Training delivers. Keep your experience seamless with TRU’s design By CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton and support of training devices, top instructors, courseware and direct 42 Field of (Simulated) Dreams access to manufacturer resources. Focus on the task at hand, because By CW5 Michael J. Hangge everything else is covered. FEATURE TRUsimulation.com/Military 44 Army Aviation in Army Futures Command By COL Michael J. Best and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi 48 46 Aviation Systems Reorganizes By COL Johnathan Frasier and Ms. JoAnna Wright
DEPARTMENTS AAAA NEWS AAAA President’s Cockpit...... 8 AAAA VP Chapter Affairs...... 50 99.2%AVAILABILITY Chapter News...... 51 RATE FOR B-1 AAAA VP Membership...... 52 New Members...... 53 AAAA Family Forum...... 56 51 AAAA Legislative Report...... 54 AAAA Scholarship Foundation...... 57 99.5% AVAILABILITY ARMY AVIATION COMMUNITY NEWS RATE FOR C-17 Advertisers Index...... 61 Art’s Attic...... 62 Briefings...... 6 Calendar...... 53 Enlisted Soldier Spotlight...... 16 100% Hall of Fame...... 63 QUALITY ACCEPTANCE Historical Perspective...... 48 FOR F-22 Industry News...... 61
PROVEN PAST PERFORMANCE PAST PROVEN TRANSFORM YOUR REALITY 52 People on the Move...... 58
ARMY AVIATION is the official journal of the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA). The views expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors, not the Department of Defense or its elements. The content does not necessarily reflect the official U.S. Army position nor the position of the AAAA or the staff of Army Aviation Publications, Inc., (AAPI). Title Reg® in U.S. Patent office. Registration Number 1,533,053. SUBSCRIPTION DATA: ARMY AVIATION (ISSN 0004-248X) is published monthly, except May and September by AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806. Tel: (203) 268-2450, FAX: (203) 268-5870, E-Mail: [email protected]. Army Aviation Magazine E-Mail: [email protected]. Website: http://www.quad-a.org. Subscription rates for non-AAAA members: $30, one year; $58, two years; add $10 per year for foreign addresses other than military APOs. Single copy price: $4.00. ADVERTISING: Display and classified advertising rates are listed in SRDS Business Publications, Classification 90. POSTMASTER: Periodicals postage paid at Monroe, CT and other offices. Send address changes to AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.
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© 2019ARMY TRU Simulation AVIATION + Training Magazine Inc. All Rights Reserved. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense5 (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute July 31,DoD 2019endorsement. Briefings u Late Breaking News - Announcements
POTUS Taps Esper as Edward Daly, deputy commanding general Publisher / William R. Harris Jr. Acting SECDEF/McCarthy of the U.S. Army Materiel Command, during Editor / CW4 (Ret.) Joseph L. Pisano Sr. as Acting SECARMY a June 10 assumption of command cer- [email protected] President Donald Trump an- emony at Bob Jones Auditorium, Redstone nounced that Secretary of Arsenal, AL. AMCOM Executive Director, Mr. Associate Editor / CW5 Adam Jarvis the Army Mark T. Esper (left) William Marriott, and senior enlisted leader, [email protected] would take over as Acting CSM Mike Dove participated. A career Army Secretary of Defense and Aviator, this is Royar’s second time being Director of Design & Production Under Secretary of the Army assigned to AMCOM. He previously served Anne H. Ewing Ryan McCarthy would be- as the AMCOM Chief of Staff from 2015 to DOD PHOTO BY LISA FERDINANDO [email protected] come Acting Secretary of the 2017. He returns to AMCOM from his most Web Edition / Trudy Hodenfield Army on June 24th. Esper recent assignment with the 101st Airborne [email protected] is backfilling the void left by Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, KY, Acting Secretary of Defense where he served as the deputy commanding Contributing Editor / Mark Albertson Patrick Shanahan’s with- general for support. [email protected] drawal of his nomination for Koziol New CWOB Family Forum Editor / Judy Konitzer the top Pentagon post. Presi- [email protected] ADAN CAZAREZ ARMY PHOTO BY CPT U.S. dent Trump subsequently announced his intent to nominate Esper for Advertising Director / Robert C. Lachowski secretary of defense, and McCarthy as secre- [email protected] tary of the Army. McCarthy had served for four months in 2017 as the acting Army secretary. Advertising Manager / Erika Burgess [email protected] Francis Takes Over USAACE Marketing Director / Jennifer Chittem [email protected] VP Business Development / Sal D. Lucci [email protected] U.S. ARMY U.S. PHOTO Circulation Department CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol receives the charter Deb Cavallaro as the eighth Chief Warrant Officer of the Debbie Coley Aviation Branch from MG William K. Gayler, Elisabeth Mansson then-commanding general of the U.S. Army
Sue Stokes MORRIS ARMY PHOTO BY KELLY U.S. Aviation Center of Excellence and the Army MG David J. Francis accepts the U.S. Army Aviation Branch Chief at Ft. Rucker, AL on Web Master / Mary Seymour Aviation Center of Excellence colors from May 3, 2019. Koziol comes to Ft. Rucker [email protected] LTG Michael D. Lundy, U.S. Army Combined from the office of the Director of Army Avia- Editorial Address Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth com- tion at the Pentagon and replaces CW5 Joe 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806 manding general, as he assumes command Roland who departed for West Point, NY Tel: (203) 268-2450 / Fax: (203) 268-5870 of USAACE and Fort Rucker from MG William where he took command of the 2nd Avn. K. Gayler (back to camera) during a change Det. at the U.S. Military Academy. of command ceremony on Howze Field, Ft. Grinston Next SMA ARMYAVIATIONmagazine.com Rucker, AL on June 17, 2019. Francis comes to Ft. Rucker from his most recent assign- ment as the director of Army Aviation at the On The Cover Pentagon. Gayler heads to Europe and his next assignment as the J-3 Operations/ Cyber, U.S. Africa Command. PAID ADVERTISEMENT: AMCOM Welcomes Royar CAE is the global leader in training and now trains more than 135,000 pilots each year. One of the company-owned training centers is the CAE Dothan Training Center in Alabama where CAE delivers academic, ARMY U.S. PHOTO simulator and live flying training to Army CSM Michael A. Grinston (shown here tak- fixed-wing aviators. CAE recently added ing a selfie with Soldiers from the 1st Com- new three and five-day C-12 refresher bat Aviation Brigade) will be sworn in at the courses, as well as a new Upset Prevention Pentagon as the 16th sergeant major of the and Recovery Training course with APS. Army on August 16, 2019. The combat vet- Visit www.caeusa.com for information. ARMY U.S. PHOTO eran comes to the position from being the BG(P) K. Todd Royar (left) receives the Avia- senior enlisted leader for U.S. Army Forces Caption provided by the advertiser. tion and Missile Command colors from LTG Command and succeeds SMA Daniel Dailey.
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ummer is often a time of change S in our Army, as families move and Soldiers report to new positions and new duty stations. Our Army Aviation leadership is no exception.
MG Dave Francis assumed command of the Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on 17 June. Dave is no stranger to Fort Rucker, having served as the commanding general of the Combat Readiness Center and before that as deputy commander at Fort Rucker. We welcome him and his wife Jodie back! In Huntsville, MG Todd Royar assumed command of AMCOM on 10 June after serving as the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) DCG-Support. Todd previously AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ served at AMCOM as the chief of staff. Again, we welcome AAAA National President, MG (Ret.) Jeff Schloesser talks with incoming commanding general of U.S. Army North/5th United States Army, Todd and his wife Mary Lou back to Huntsville. LTG Laura Richardson, while at the 2019 Summit in Nashville, TN. Another key member of the Army Aviation leadership, BG “Mac” Mike McCurry took over as the director, Army Aviation in the Army G3/5/7 office as the backfill to MG Francis on 17 June. Mac is very familiar with the Pentagon, MG Thomas Todd, who gave a heartfelt and substantive where he served as chief, DAMO-FDV prior to becoming update on everything his team of teams is doing to maintain DCG at 2ID, ROK. It will be great for Army Aviation to our current “top of the line” helicopter fleets while setting the have Mac back in the Pentagon! stage for FVL. It was a great night, and we sincerely thank There is also a flurry of movements in the most senior General Todd for taking the time out of an incredibly busy civilian positions of the Pentagon as nominations for Secretary schedule to be with us. of Defense and Secretary of the Army are solidified for the Within the National Executive Board, we are finalizing Honorable Mark Esper and the Honorable Ryan McCarthy, nominations for Emeritus status as well as adding board respectively. Both are strong supporters of Army Aviation, members to the National Members at Large team. Al and we wish them our best in their new positions. Roberson and Bill Morris have graciously accepted our In Washington, the budget has taken on critical importance request to join the board. We are also very pleased to welcome as our elected officials seek to balance our defense needs with SGT Ashley M. Sanchez to the National Executive Board domestic requirements, and as they also seek to support Army as a representative of our junior enlisted Soldiers. We are readiness efforts while seeking to make investments in the in the process of identifying and bringing on to the board a modernization of our force. Kevin Cochie’s article in this junior warrant officer and a 1st lieutenant/captain to make issue on page 54 gives great insights into how this process sure those cohorts have a voice and direct input to AAAA unfolds in our nation’s capital. leadership as well. As Army Aviation continues to build readiness with As a reminder, we have the Luther G. Jones Army our current fleets and Soldiers, our leaders are also seeking Aviation Depot Forum in Corpus Christi, 20-21 August; our to invest in the future through Future Vertical Lift (FVL) AAAA National Executive Board semi-annual meeting in programs. Our focus this month, Training and Simulation, is Washington, DC, 13 October; and in Huntsville, our Aircraft incredibly important to both our current fleets and readiness Survivability Symposium, 18-19 November, followed by the and our future, and so I draw your attention to MG Dave Joseph P. Cribbins Army Aviation Product Sustainment Francis’ To the Field article on page 10. Symposium on 20-21 Nov. It is a significant year of both Our chapters continue to do their role to support Army change and continuity within Army Aviation, and I encourage Aviation, our soldiers and their families. In June, our National you to get involved and stay engaged! Senior Vice President and former PEO Aviation, MG Tim Crosby and I attended a superb dinner meeting with the North MG Jeff Schloesser, U.S. Army, Retired Texas Chapter, hosted by Chapter President Steve Mathias. 34th President, AAAA The guest of honor was the Army’s current PEO-Aviation, [email protected] ARMY AVIATION Magazine 8 July 31, 2019 The Greatest Value Quality • Experience in Aviation Training Service • Technology
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FLIGHTSAFETY VALUE AD - ARMY AVIATION - Trim: 8.125” w x 10.875” d Bleed: 8.375” w x 11.125” d u Aviation Branch Chief Update
Simulations to Enhance Aviation Training Capabilities
By MG David J. Francis
t is an honor for Jodie and me to sign I on as your 17th Chief of the Aviation Branch. Our sincere gratitude to MG Bill and Michelle Gayler for their steadfast leadership of the branch over the last three years. MG Gayler set us on a path to maintain Aviation as an asymmetric advantage for our nation, and to develop and field leap-ahead capability in the future. U.S. ARMY COURTESY PHOTO ARMY COURTESY U.S.
His pursuit of training the best Aviators in the world endures COL John Ferrell (center) briefs (left to right) Mr. Tim Bishop, Deputy PEO and is highlighted in this article featuring Aviator Training STRI; MG Maria Gervais, STE CFT Director; and MG William Gayler, then-USAACE CG on the Aviator Training Next (ATN) Program while CPT Next. Our best wishes to the Gaylers in their next assignment, Marisa Lock performs traffic patterns in a VR Black Hawk on June 4, 2019 and it is our honor to serve beside the outstanding Soldiers, at Ft. Rucker, AL. DACs, and leaders of this branch. As the Army recalibrates and reorients for Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), the way commanders will train must continue to adapt. This training evolution will impact both individual and collective training while leveraging the with a better understanding of cognitive science, has potential latest technology tools. The U.S. Army Aviation Center of to considerably improve student learning. Augmented and Excellence (USAACE) Directorate of Simulation (DOS) virtual reality capabilities will be key drivers for synthetic continues to spearhead this transition into the future with training in the future and USAACE will work to stay on two key initiatives: Aviator Training Next (ATN) and the the leading edge. ATN, which focuses on individual training, Synthetic Training Environment (STE) programs. The combined with the STE, will fundamentally transform the implementation of these programs could fundamentally way we train to meet tomorrow’s challenges. transform the way we train aviators during the Initial Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) course and provide aviation Aviator Training Next (ATN) commanders more effective means for conducting collective Beginning in July of 2019, USAACE will execute a series training in a synthetic training environment at home of IERW test programs at Fort Rucker, AL to assess the station. ATN will test new approaches to train Aviators by effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) flight training capabilities. introducing innovative commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) USAACE intends to maximize modern technologies and technologies that have already matured to a level that can advances in cognitive science to improve how we train readily support Army training requirements. This, coupled pilots. The ATN concept is modeled on the Air Force’s Pilot
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 10 July 31, 2019 Synthetic Training Environment Training Next (PTN) program and seeks to produce more proficient students by reinforcing basic pilot flight maneuver The Synthetic Training Environment (STE) capability tasks. The program increases frequency and repetition through will support Army collective training in a multi-domain integration of additional VR training into the current program battlefield. The STE will address the challenges of multi- of instruction (POI) by using a training system consisting of domain training by providing a scalable environment (live, a low-cost COTS virtual trainer and flight software, artificial virtual, constructive, and gaming) of common characteristics intelligence/intelligent tutoring and cognitive measurement. that use common standards, architecture, terrain and In addition to scheduled POI training periods, students authoritative data. The STE will provide the Army a usable, will have access to these training devices after hours and on realistic, and complex training environment that improves weekends to practice more frequently. readiness through increased repetition to achieve mastery of The focus of the ATN program is within the Basic Army warfighting skills. Aviator Course (BAAC) portion of IERW. Each pilot class will For Army Aviation, the STE will provide emerging be divided into a control group and two test groups in order to technologies like mixed reality visual displays and artificial determine the right mix of live / VR / simulation that results in intelligence (AI) to expand and enhance training efforts. increased proficiency in base tasks. The use of VR is introduced The envisioned end state will incorporate actual aircraft during ground school through the end of primary training and operational flight program (OFP) into the synthetic student progress will be measured through multiple live-flight environment and will reach concurrency with fielded aircraft check rides to capture analytics of proficiency, comprehension, within 90 days. Additionally, the STE will be able to import and overall flight skill development as compared to the Aviation Mission Planning capabilities in conjunction with control group. The tasks being taught on the flight line will the STE’s tools to preview, control, and assess training. To be reinforced with the VR systems which will allow students enable better training flexibility and to meet the commander’s to practice maneuvers and be measured against the maneuver needs, the STE trainer will be modular to the extent that standard while being coached by an intelligent tutoring system it can be brought to various locations to support unique that will measure the student’s performance and provide real- training or mission requirements, whether at the hangar, in a time and post maneuver feedback. The concept proposes that classroom or at a deployed location. by gaining a higher level of proficiency in VR and simulation, Above the Best! instructors can maximize each live flight hour and focus on more warfighter skill development during later phases of IERW. This enhancement to the training of individual tasks MG David J. Francis is the Army Aviation branch chief and will lay the foundation for a successful collective training commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and environment as well. Fort Rucker, AL.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 11 July 31, 2019 u Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch
The Next Step in Simulation By CW5 Jonathon P. Koziol U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY GEORGIOS MOUMOULIDIS U.S.
irst, I am honored to be selected as the next Army Aviators assigned to B/1-214th Aviation conduct annual CH-47 Flight Simulator training F Command Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch. at the flight simulator in Illesheim, Germany. I understand the importance of the position and my responsibilities to represent our aviation warrant officers, but more importantly, the aviation branch.
Tech Innovations I will continue to work hard on Of course, this all starts right here initiatives that will better manage and at Fort Rucker with our flight training We are on the brink of technical benefit our aviation warrant officers. program. To ensure we continue to innovations that will reshape the I will embrace the opportunity I have produce the best aviation Soldiers way we train our future warfighting been given and work hard for our in the world, the Branch must be forces. Advancements in virtual reality aviation warfighters. There are multiple funded to 100% of our training (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) and efforts moving forward and I am requirements. In the past several years, advanced biometrics will aid us in excited to move them over the goal line. due to budget constraints, we have training Soldiers more efficiently, At my previous position at the Pen- not always produced the number of which will optimize production at the tagon, I witnessed the day-to-day hard aviators required annually; the bottom schoolhouse. work our Aviation Enterprise is doing line is cost. We must continue to find As with anything in life, “practice in modernization, policies and doctrine solutions to produce a better aviator makes perfect.” In whatever profession that will continue to improve on an al- at the best value and advancements in we work in, frequency and repetition at ready lethal aviation warfighting force. simulation is one of many solutions. tasks make you better. Unfortunately for
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 12 July 31, 2019 Venues our aviators, especially flight students, producing a better Warfighter. the ability to just jump into a simulator As the technology improves and Change is coming. Let us all embrace or actual aircraft to practice is not always drives down costs, it will give us the this change and help to work towards practical. Army aviation training is ability to have greater access to training the future. Think outside the box and expensive. Especially, if we have to focus devices in the classroom, at work, and not in the aspect of “that’s how we have training in actual aircraft. Even though possibly at home. Classroom trainers always done it” mentality. What I ask of simulation devices are limited in number for each student and multiple training you, the Warfighter, is this: Although due to the cost being in the upwards devices at places like the technical li- the technical advancements we are of millions of dollars, they give us the brary will allow the students to practice working on here in flight school and ability to offset costs of maintaining and hone their skills. It was not too long what you work with in your aircraft are proficiency in our fighting force. ago it was a huge step to transition to a leading edge, we must remember the Now, imagine there are companies fully digital classroom and issue com- basics. Simple things such as reading out there who could produce new VR puters to each flight student. Looking a map and terrain recognition are the training devices and significantly drive forward, one day we can issue VR de- building blocks for the tactics we will down costs. Add in AI, who will be the vices that are part of the flight students use to counter our adversaries. Take virtual instructor capable of instruct- training aides. The frequency and rep- advantage of the Aviation Warfighting ing a student with immediate feed- etition afforded our students combined Initiatives and exportable training back. Biometrics can tell if the aviation with the immediate instruction will al- packets that have been produced. Never student is looking at the proper instru- low us to gain efficiencies at the begin- quit on bettering yourself. ments or manipulating the controls ning of flight school and possibly with I look forward to working with all of properly and measuring the cognitive other aviation courses. This innovative you to better our Branch. load of the student. Understanding training will allow us to reinvest train- Above the Best! when the student is task saturated or if ing dollars into our advanced aircraft it appears the procedures are too easy. training and tactics. The ability to adjust training immedi- With that being said, there is no CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol is the chief ately for the individual will allow us to replacement for the real thing. What warrant officer of the Aviation Branch harness proficiency-based training to VR and AI can do is allow us to with the U.S. Army Aviation Center of standard instead of time. optimize the training dollars while still Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 13 July 31, 2019 u Branch Command Sergeant Major
Balance By CSM Brian N. Hauke PERSONAL PHOTO FROM CSM HAUKE
o be 100% transparent with everyone, I am going The author and his wife finding the balance with his 14' V8 powered airboat which he T to date myself with the following quote regarding started in December 2018 and completed in March/April 2019. “balance.” For this article, I wanted to share some of my thoughts on “balance” from the movie, The Karate Kid (1984) – yes, over 35 years ago.
For those who are not familiar with lies. I would share the most important grind. It’s an opportunity to enjoy your the movie, there is a discussion over part of Mr. Miyagi’s philosophy, “Bal- current project, hang out with family or the course of the movie between Mr. ance is key. Balance good, everything friends, listen to some tunes, and enjoy a Miyagi, “the karate master,” and Daniel, good!” If you’re like me, you enjoy head- refreshment or two. Okay, maybe three! “the bullied teenager,” on having ing out to the garage, the driveway, the It doesn’t matter if your “escape” balance. The famous quote from Mr. shady tree, or the shop for some wrench is into the shop, woods, lake, river, Miyagi to Daniel, “Better learn balance. time. Whether you’re in the middle of golf course, range, gym, volunteering, Balance is key. Balance good, karate a full-blown restoration or just a simple scouts, coaching, camping, movies, good. Everything good. Balance bad. oil change on your daily driver. Getting flying, motorcycles, yard work, and the Better pack up, go home. Understand?” out to the shop is great for more than list could go on and on. Whatever your Wow! I don’t think it can get much just the obvious reason of finishing a choice may be, the key to balance, is clearer than that! Bottom Line Up project. Wrenching, sanding, grinding, to get out there, get moving forward, Front – You must have balance! cleaning, and fixing is therapeutic to the and enjoy your time. Your “escape” can Leaders, our Army asks so much mind, body and soul. To me, the shop be a de-stressor. It sounds funny but from everyone, both Soldiers and fami- is a great place to escape from the daily slowing down to work on your thing
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine 15 July 31, 2019 can help provide balance. Who would Enlisted Aviation Soldier Spotlight u have thought? You’ve heard me talk about our Each month we will feature a past AAAA National or Functional Enlisted or NCO Award winner as part of our ongoing recognition of the Best of the Best in our Aviation Branch. The Branch and why the Soldiers make it so CY 2018 National winners were featured in the April/May AAAA Annual Summit issue. great. Indispensable relationships and lasting memories are built among these SFC Eric D. Wright people of our branch. Take a step back Company B, Special Operations Training Battalion and think about how many friends you Fort Campbell, Kentucky have made from your passion or hobby. Today’s Army is moving faster James H. McClellan Aviation than the aircraft we fly and maintain. Budgeting time to be in the shop Safety Award, 2014 and hanging with your family and Sponsored by GE Aviation friends accomplishes more than just progressing on your build or theirs. You SFC Eric Wright performed outstandingly and with foster a sense of accomplishment, self- unwavering commitment as the Bravo Company, pride, and probably the most important Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion’s
AAPI FILE PHOTO thing, making memories. (SOATB) safety NCO and officer. This company is the When your “car buds, golf buds, most diversified within the Special Operation Aviation community. It is equipped with motorcycle buds, or hunting buds, etc.” 32 helicopters of three different airframes. With the number of active duty personnel get into the mix, you become part of a only the size of a platoon, in order to effectively execute the company’s mission fraternity. Developing a special feeling of in the safest manner possible it takes a dedicated group of aviation professionals camaraderie when you work on a project operating within a world class safety program; a safety program setup and run to together. Pushing one another to meet a perfection by SFC Wright. While serving as both the company safety NCO and officer, deadline, make a show, or just make it his accomplishments included: 10 site surveys for the unit’s offsite training areas, possible to cruise your ride is the whole completion of the Laser Safety Officer’s certification, the safe execution of 10,000 point. Another bonus and possibly the flying hour program, two commendable ratings on separate inspections, and the best reason is the opportunity for some training of all civilians, contractors, and active duty Soldiers in the pre-accident plan. quality family time. When you have SFC Wright’s commitment and dedication to the organization and its safety program teenage kids, it can be hard to find a is unwavering and clearly identify him as the winner of the 2014 Army Aviation common topic or subject, but “shop Association of America James H. McClellan Aviation Safety Award. time” can help bridge some of those gaps. Seeing your son, daughter or your better half get excited about working on a project is a remarkable feeling. As you look back, I’m sure there are many family memories you’ve made as you share your passion/hobby with your children and your spouse. So, grab a friend, child, dad, mom, or spouse and start that project you’ve been thinking about. I urge you to get out there, whether it be in the woods or on the golf course. Set a deadline/goal, change the deadline, and then change it again! The key is to have fun and en- joy the entire process. It’s the process of working with loved ones and friends, giving each other a hard time, making some memories, and doing something awesome! Thanks again to each and ev- ery one of you out there for all you do! Remember, “Balance is key. Balance good, everything is good!” Above the Best! CSM Hauke [email protected]
CSM Brian N. Hauke is the command sergeant major of the Aviation Branch and the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 16 July 31, 2019
u Combat Readiness Center Update
The Heat is Rising By COL Jason L. Miller
Oklahoma National Guard Soldiers with Company C, 2-245th Aviation Battalion, 90th Troop Command refuel their UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter on May 25, 2019 in Tulsa before departing to Camp Gruber, Oklahoma to evacuate residence stranded by recent storms.
lenges as they pertain to mission com- plexity. First, pilot briefings specifically dedicated to the effects of the environ- ment on man and machine increase awareness, and environmental impacts can be further demonstrated through U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD PHOTO BY PFC EMILY WHITE GUARD PHOTO BY PFC EMILY ARMY NATIONAL U.S. simulated flight. Next, mission briefing he summer season brings new hazards aviators officers are the commander’s first line of mitigation and have the responsibility T must mitigate, including increased temperature, to review overall mission planning (and performance planning), assess hazards dynamic and severe weather conditions, and generally and profiles, and assist in developing higher operational tempo. control measures to conduct opera- tions effectively and safely. Finally, the mission approval authority needs to conduct a real-time assessment of the During the past five years, 57 percent away from the actual storm cell. Profes- crews and mission to balance risk versus of Class A mishaps and nearly 60 per- sional aviators, using the weather fore- reward. Leaders must understand there cent of all Class A-C mishaps occurred cast and knowledge of the fundamentals are no routine missions. during the summer months of June of flight, have greater success accounting Lastly, with extended daylight during through September. Last year alone, for aircraft limitations due to the sum- the summer months, aircrews should six of the 11 mishaps occurred during mer weather environment. be aware of potential hazards as NVG this time frame. Specific risks and chal- operations push later into the duty day lenges associated with the summer fly- Reduced Crew Performance and possibly outside an aviator’s normal ing months manifest themselves in me- A more subjective challenge during circadian rhythm. Leaders and mission chanical and physiological domains and warm weather conditions is the po- briefing officers must be aware of the ef- are reduced through constant awareness tential reduction in crew performance. fects on fatigue and crew endurance, and and leader involvement. Long before an aviator would become a plan operations accordingly. As the spring fog and rain give way heat casualty, there is commonly fatigue Even the most professional aviators to summer, most units take advantage associated with operating in a hot en- can become complacent when operat- of the increased number of flying days. vironment while wearing required avia- ing in a familiar environment without Based upon increased temperature, per- tion life support equipment — at least accounting for the change in summer formance planning cards objectively until the body acclimates. When fatigue weather. When environmental condi- identify the reduction in aircraft engine is combined with dehydration and long tions change, leaders, mission briefers, performance but don’t intuitively indi- work hours, crew and support person- and aircrews must remain vigilant to not cate the inevitable decrease in maneuver- nel might experience reduced physical fall prey to a comfort zone associated ability. Additionally, dynamic variations and mental performance well before the with repetitive missions. As a leader, are in the weather – from exceptionally dry end of the duty day. Leaders must assess you looking forward, remaining vigilant, to thunderstorms – all require changes crews physically and holistically, and not and considering the changing environ- to the actual techniques of maneuvering let only the risk common operational mental conditions as you prepare for an aircraft. In dry conditions, degraded picture dictate crew capacity. your next mission? visual environments might become more Readiness Through Safety! prevalent due to dust and grass. During Environmental Factors severe weather such as thunderstorms Leaders need to address environ- COL Jason L. Miller is the deputy and lightning, an aircraft could encoun- mental factors using the lens of these commander of the Combat Readiness ter more intense turbulence even miles mechanical and physiological chal- Center at Fort Rucker, AL.
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Synthetic Aviation Maintenance Training Environment By COL Andrew D. Cecil
rmy Aviation has the opportunity to advance ditionary combat aviation brigades (ECABs), four tactical rotorcraft bat- A Aviation maintenance training into the synthetic talions and an aviation support battalion training environment. (ASB). The ARAC’s tactical rotorcraft maintenance footprint is spread over 11 installations and nine states. Pro- curement of large or expensive systems Aviation equipment and systems have nance training is required. Army Avia- is cost prohibitive for a geographically advanced from the analog to the digital tion needs a synthetic training environ- dispersed command. The STE mainte- over the past two decades (UH-60A/L ment (STE) aircraft maintenance trainer nance trainer must be cost effective and to UH-60M; CH-47D to CH-47F; for training and maintaining perishable updates should be “pushed” automati- AH-64A to AH-64D/E). The train- aircraft maintenance tasks without phys- cally rather than requiring user actions ing for helicopter maintenance person- ically affecting an operational aircraft. to update to a new configuration. nel has not changed commensurate to The STE aircraft maintenance trainer In order to advance our Aviation this change in complexity. We can and should provide training in aircraft sys- maintenance training programs, Army should now correct that deficiency. tems, subsystems, and component famil- Aviation should partner with the Syn- Aviation maintenance training in iarization as well as fault identification, thetic Training Environment Cross Army units is essentially an apprentice- isolation, and remediation. Ideally, the Functional Team (STE CFT) to iden- ship program requiring close supervision, STE would provide multiple levels of tify and test appropriate systems. Our limited learner autonomy and restricted training including: guided task training force will remain in high demand and initiative. These controls represent neces- with step by step instructions; unguided will continue to execute at a high OP- sary restrictions on the apprentice due to task training requiring the student to TEMPO. Our Soldiers deserve the best the high cost of mistakes on operational reference the appropriate maintenance training we can provide. Moving to a aircraft. This system restricts training at manual; and advanced training on trou- synthetic training environment allow- unit level principally to on-aircraft train- ble shooting by use of faults included in ing our Soldiers to learn at an acceler- ing and studying schematics. It is a sys- the system. The system should track stu- ated pace based on individual initiative tem designed, implemented, and neces- dents by a unique ID to allow leadership is critical to changing the paradigm. sary for the 20th century. to track and document individual Soldier Army Aviation is now solidly in the training completed. COL Andrew D. Cecil is the deputy com- 21st century; a new system to train, cer- The Army Reserve Aviation Com- mander of the U.S. Army Reserve Aviation tify, and track Soldier aviation mainte- mand (ARAC) consists of two expe- Command located at Fort Knox, KY.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 20 July 31, 2019 DELIVERING READINESS
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@DynCorpIntl ARMY AVIATION Magazine 21 dyn-intl.com July 31, 2019 u 128th Aviation Brigade Update
Introducing Virtual Training into Aviation Maintenance By SFC Matthew Harris
he 128th Aviation T Brigade must focus on developing and implementing advanced technology training devices across all rotary wing airframes to remain relevant and improve the quality of training. U.S. ARMY 128TH AVN. BDE. PHOTO BDE. AVN. ARMY 128TH U.S. Soldiers now train in virtual reality – practice makes perfect!
Incorporation of virtual training across to enhance learning and enforce proper the benefits of virtual training devices all the Brigade’s Programs of Instruc- maintenance procedures in a controlled by limiting downtime for upgrades in tion (POI) will enable the organization environment. Visual demonstration of comparison to individualized “mock-up” to train more Soldiers, and train them how systems interact such as engine training devices. faster. The 128th Aviation Brigade con- fuel and airflow or hydraulic systems Overall, virtual training provides an tinues to work with program managers and flight control functions, provides a exceptional tool in the education and and members of the Aviation industry clearer understanding when performing training of our aviation maintainers. to plan for, develop and resource virtual maintenance on actual hardware compo- When used to its full potential in con- training devices in order to effectively nents. Thus, reinforcing a Soldier’s ability junction with hands on training, higher RELIABLE educate aircraft maintainers utilizing to conduct research and seek the answers qualified aircraft maintainers will be the adult learning model. to their own questions, increasing their produced. It allows for better training Automatic ammunition handling One of the ways the Brigade is cur- technical knowledge and knowledge re- to be accomplished faster, without sac- rently using virtual training is the Vir- tention. This device is not designed to rificing quality or standards. Addition- for extreme military environments tual Interactive Environment (VIE) in take away from hands on training, it is ally, once integrated into the POI there the 15F Aircraft Electrician courses. The meant to supplement training and in- is a potential for cost reduction through VIE is a computer-based system that crease overall knowledge. Instructors can decreased course lengths and constant Around the globe, military system engineers have turned can be configured to support classroom use these devices to impart a deeper lever wear on components. Just like any other to Meggitt to help them meet their demanding lethality instruction, as well as maintenance train- of understanding. These devices are also tool, it’s only as good as the individuals and reliability requirements for ammunition storage and ing exercises in conjunction with a full used for students attending Advanced using it. The instructors across the 128th handling systems in all manner of combat platforms – rotary mock-up aircraft training device. These Leaders Course. These devices have quick Aviation Brigade are some of the best and fixed-wing aircraft and ground combat vehicles. devices enable instructors to provide search capabilities and are excellent for NCOs in Army Aviation and they work lecture type instruction while simulta- refresher training for Soldiers at all levels. every day to train and develop the future neously delivering visual concepts that Since these programs are computer- maintainers and leaders of our branch. Meggitt has developed and fielded state-of-the-art lethality demonstrate aircraft system theory and based, it is considerably less expensive Virtual training will ensure that before solutions for the most challenging operational environments capability more comprehensively. Un- than purchasing traditional simulated heading to their first duties stations across the spectrum of conventional ammunition calibers as der instructor-controlled and self-paced aircraft trainers. While each trainer is around the globe, the aviation main- training, individual trainees can cover physically identical, the media can be tainers that graduate are knowledgeable, well as advanced ammunition in the form of case telescoped systems location, descriptions, theory designed for a specific aircraft system safety conscious, and capable. and electromagnetic railgun rounds. Meggitt delivers of operations, maintenance operational or interchangeable. When updates are unprecedented reliability to the mission-critical weapon checks (MOC), simulated fault isola- required, the virtual trainer can be up- SFC Matthew W. Harris is a 15K assigned systems of today and tomorrow. tion procedures (FIP), and component dated as a simple download of the new to the 128th Aviation Brigade. Currently removal / reinstallation tasks. information, while other training de- works as a training developer in the Sys- Tel: +1 949 465 7700 Throughout MOCs troubleshoot- vices might have to be transferred to tems Integration Division (SID) at Joint E-mail: [email protected] ing, and FIPs, this device can be used the manufacturer. This once again shows Base Langley-Eustis, VA. Enabling the Extraordinary ARMY AVIATION Magazine 22 July 31, 2019 www.meggittdefense.com To Fly To Power To Live RELIABLE Automatic ammunition handling for extreme military environments
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Meggitt has developed and fielded state-of-the-art lethality solutions for the most challenging operational environments across the spectrum of conventional ammunition calibers as well as advanced ammunition in the form of case telescoped and electromagnetic railgun rounds. Meggitt delivers unprecedented reliability to the mission-critical weapon systems of today and tomorrow.
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Commercially Derived Aircraft for the Army Aviator By Mr. Daniel McClintock
ince the introduction S of the TH-67, every Army Aviator has been involved with the Commercially Derived Aircraft (CDA) process.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) defines CDA aircraft as a com- mercial type-certified aircraft converted for operational use by the U.S. Armed ALL PHOTOS: U.S. ARMY MASPO COURTESY PHOTO ARMY MASPO COURTESY U.S. ALL PHOTOS: Forces. U.S. law requires the Army to Delivered MD-369FF with FAA Certificates of Airworthiness provide airworthiness oversight for its aircraft. The Army Aviation Enterprise is evolving its use of the CDA process to provide capability for the Army and ate work to review and incorporate the electromagnetic protections for sys- for partner nations faster and more ef- FAA based messages to ensure the field tems come from specific Army lessons ficiently. There are some challenges in has the right information the right way learned in its operating environment. using the CDA process, but the re- to maintain airworthiness. Second, un- Future Vertical Lift (FVL) will chal- wards make it well worth it. like the Army, the FAA does not cen- lenge us to find ways to equip the Army The CDA process can significantly trally locate its engineering data for Aviator faster than we have done in the improve the time to deliver aircraft. airworthiness. Rather, the Type Certif- past. What may prove to be the high- Using civil aircraft available, the Multi- icate or Supplemental Type Certificate est payoff of the CDA process for the National Aircraft Special Project holder is responsible for maintaining Army is in the exposure of its engineers Office (MASPO) was able to begin engineering data. This tends to make to the different airworthiness processes fielding twenty-four armed MD 530s airworthiness decisions such as Main- of the FVL performers. Involvement in to the Afghan Air Force with less tenance Engineering Call (MEC, an CDA efforts could see a broader base than nine months of development engineering approval of a nonstandard and perspective of the aviation indus- and production time. Beginning from repair) or depot level repair procedures try. As each CDA effort is undertaken, an established production line with a more responsive than the FAA process. we get the opportunity to improve our recognized airworthiness authority can Typical MEC response time is less airworthiness basis of safety. We are be an incredible advantage. than 72 hours. Integrating the FAA learning more ways to approach our There are differences in using the continued airworthiness processes with end goal of innovating airworthiness CDA process that can be challenges. fielded Army systems requires solid capabilities for increasingly complex First, continuing airworthiness in- communication with its original equip- Army aircraft systems. structions involved for commercial ment manufacturer and FAA partners. aircraft do not follow the same nam- Finally, some requirements driven by ing conventions system used for Army the Army’s lessons learned are required safety messages. Items such as Service for Army airworthiness. Examples of Mr. Daniel McClintock is in the U.S. Bulletins and Airworthiness Directives more stringent requirements include Army Combat Capabilities Development may indicate impacts on continued operations above 131 degrees (the FAA Command Aviation & Missile Center operation for CDA. The engineering halts operations in higher tempera- Aviation Engineering Directorate, Non- staffs of the Program Managers and tures), crashworthy, ballistic tolerant Standard Rotary Wing Division located the Aviation Engineering Director- fuel systems for helicopters, and higher at Redstone Arsenal, AL.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 24 July 31, 2019 ARMY AVIATION Magazine 25 July 31, 2019 u Ask the Flight Surgeon
gresses, the tears, inflammation and as- Plantar Fasciitis sociated pain often increase to the point By CPT Frank Stafford, D.O. where running, jumping, or any impact on the foot becomes intolerable. This could prevent you from being physically The bottom of my feet, especially my heels, active and may affect your ability to op- erate an aircraft safely. Safety of flight Q:have really been hurting. The pain is the worst can be jeopardized by distraction from when I first get up in the morning. It can get so bad pain, physical limitations due to pain, inability to properly pre-flight or inabil- that it makes it difficult to walk or stand for a long time ity to safely egress. let alone go for a run. I read on the internet that this Treatment could be plantar fasciitis. What is that? Diagnosis can be made by your aero- medical provider using the history of your symptoms and a physical exam in FS: Plantar fasciitis is when the fascia, a have been off your feet and the fascia the office. All forms of treatment in- thick, wide band of tissue that runs from has not been stretched out for a while. volve rest (but not inactivity) and allow- the base of your toes to your heel, be- The presentation of plantar fasciitis is a ing the tissue to heal from the tears. Ini- comes inflamed and painful. This tissue stabbing pain in your heel when you first tially, you will need to limit the pressure acts as a shock absorber and supports get out of bed in the morning or when applied to the feet and not perform any the arch of the foot. Too much pressure standing after a long car ride or flight. activities that cause pain. Anti-inflam- on your feet can irritate or even tear the Plantar fasciitis usually starts off with matory medicines such as ibuprofen or fascia causing pain and stiffness in the minor irritation and can be tolerated naproxen can be used to reduce pain foot. Pain is typically worse after you reasonably well. However, as time pro- and swelling. Additional therapies such
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine 26 July 31, 2019 Questions for the Flight as ice baths for the feet, rolling a ten- Flight Status Surgeon? nis ball or frozen plastic bottle of water This condition does not usually limit under the arch of the foot may reduce your ability to fly unless the pain inter- If you have a question you would like inflammation and promote healing. A feres with flight activities. If pain and addressed, email it to AskFS@quad-a. lower leg stretching routine as well as stiffness limit your ability to work the org; we’ll try to address it in the future. the nightly use of a foot brace may pre- pedals or to safely egress the aircraft, then See your unit flight surgeon for your vent the painful tightening of the fascia. a period of grounding will be necessary as personal health issues. Orthotics such as heel lifts and arch you work through the concern. Properly The views and opinions offered are supports are additional options. X-rays fitted orthotics can be used while flying those of the author and researchers and are not required to diagnosis plantar fas- without concern. Steroid injections only should not be construed as an official ciitis but may be used to identify other limit you from flying the day that you get Department of the Army position un- causes of foot pain like stress fractures or the injection, otherwise you can fly. The less otherwise stated. abnormal boney outgrowths called spurs surgery will keep you out of the cockpit that have their own treatment regimens. until the surgical wound is healed, your As the pain decreases, you can begin pain is well-controlled, and you are able CPT (Dr.) Frank C. Stafford is a flight increasing your activity levels. Examples to safely perform your duties. surgeon at the School of Army Aviation are slowly jogging short distances and Stay safe! Futura Med w/Bernard Fashion Medicine, Fort Rucker, AL. then adding distance and speed over 2-3 months. If you experience any worsen- ing of the pain at any level, you should return to the previous comfortable level ONE-XM of activity. If given enough time, most MILITARY AVIATION ANR HEADSET cases of plantar fasciitis will resolve on HYBRID their own without further treatment. If conservative therapies are not successful, then injections typically using steroids or even foot surgery may be considered. Same day surgery is generally considered after all other methods have been un- successful. Recovery time requires a few weeks and physical therapy is often initi- ated about two weeks after the surgery. Prevention Certain interventions can help prevent the occurrence or recurrence of plantar fasciitis. Extra body weight increases the stress on the arches of the feet and increases your chances of irritating the plantar fascia. In addition, Born from a legacy of quality footwear that provides proper mission-proven performance arch support should a part of your prevention regimen. Shoes should Outstanding comfort features that absorbs excess heat support your arch and protect your combine with advanced buildup to virtually heel or allow the use of properly fitted Hybrid Electronic eliminate ‘hot spots’. inserts. Even the best shoes wear out, losing their ability to support your arch Noise-Cancelling The DC ONE-XM and should be changed periodically. technology on a is the new standard This is especially true if they get heavy rugged, yet lightweight of excellence in a use like running or other athletic shoes. A physical therapist is a great alloy suspension−just long line of David Clark source of stretches and their proper 12.3 ounces. Featuring plush, mission-proven headsets execution. These stretches can include surround-the-ear leatherette ear for military aviation. Visit www. the “Achilles Stretch,” “Stair Stretch,” seals with memory foam. And davidclark.com or call 800-298- toe stretch and several others. Recent studies have shown that muscle Outlast fabric head pad technology 6235 to fi nd out more. strengthening of the foot and ankle may have a role in returning the injured back to physical activity sooner and help prevent the return of the problem. An Employee Owned Please see your aeromedical provider © 2019 David Clark Company Incorporated ® Green headset domes are a David Clark registered trademark. WWW.DAVIDCLARK.COM American Company for assistance with the right prevention and treatment plan for you.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 27 July 31, 2019 230-33752 MIL ONE-XM 45625X7AAM.indd 1 2/11/19 10:31 PM Special Focus u Simulation & Training Doctrine Update By COL George G. Ferido and COL Jimmy L. Meacham, U.S. Army Retired U.S. ARMYAVIATION CENTER OF EXCELLENCE GRAPHIC ARMYAVIATION U.S.
n an attempt to provide an update to the Aviation As I had the privilege of reviewing and approving doctrinal I Enterprise, we decided to use this article to provide a material for our force, I was immersed in current tactics, quick snapshot of the major changes in our doctrine. When techniques, procedures, and terms. As the Director, but more I assumed the role of Director of DOTD (Directorate importantly as a professional, I forced myself to learn where of Training and Doctrine) for the United States Army we are headed with our most critical doctrine publications. Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE), I knew very I am truly excited about the emphasis the Commanding little about what we did for the branch. Other than flight General put on our company- and field grade-level manuals. school and a couple of TDY trips, my knowledge of the Ft. Many of our 3-04 series publications have been revised Rucker machine, the generating force for Army Aviation, and provide a better foundation for Aviation operations in was lacking. As a consumer of Ft. Rucker products for LSCO. I’m proud of what the DOTD and USAACE team many years, I was now a part of the “they/them” pronoun has accomplished in less than one year as we transitioned that produce the training and doctrine material required our focus to LSCO. I encourage all leaders to reorient on by front-line units. The constantly evolving doctrinal our doctrine and training publications as well as our training manuals and training materials were enough to make your strategies to ensure we remain above the best! head spin. Terms like Multi-Domain Operations (MDO), We continue our recurring doctrinal updates with a focus Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), and Aviation on improving our “Ready Now” capability in LSCO. Several Warfighting Initiative were terms I was familiar with, but of our key documents will be released in the coming months. only understood superficially. Several years away from the FM 3-04, Army Aviation updates previous doctrine and operational force doing non-typical assignments eroded describes how Army Aviation forces, as part of the combined my doctrinal knowledge base and understanding of what arms team, shape operational environments, prevent I should know as an Aviation professional. Additionally, conflict, conduct LSCO, and consolidate gains against peer the ad-hoc approach to mission planning, preparation, competitors. It provides a foundation for subordinate doctrine and execution associated with repeated counterinsurgency and training literature, professional military education, and partner capability development deployments (think, leader development, and individual and collective training. “CONOP” mentality) have contributed to a lack of Significant updates to FM 3-04 include implications for understanding of aviation doctrine. Although not an excuse, multi-domain effects on aviation units, added discussion of it’s the reality that we have lived for the past two decades. aviation unit survivability against peer capabilities (to include
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 28 July 31, 2019 command post survivability), and the addition of counter-air ATP 3-04.7, Army Aviation Maintenance, will be and air-volcano capabilities in aviation units. updated with adjustments derived from a series of Aviation For ATP 3-04.1, Aviation Tactical Employment, we Sustainment Table-Top Exercises (TTX) conducted during undertook a complete rewrite to better prepare small unit the last 9 months. aviation leaders to operate as part of the combined arms The TTXs were organized by chronological phases of team in LSCO. The intent for this rewrite was threefold: a LSCO designed to generate in-depth analysis focused (1) Develop a manual to serve as the primary reference for on sustaining aviation forces as part of an expeditionary all company-level planning, preparation, and execution for operation through logistical actions during LSCO. In total, aviation tactical tasks; (2) Provide a teaching document the TTX tested our ability to move from Ft. to fight, and that applies to any operational environment; and (3) Write then sustain operations against peer adversaries. TTX results the manual to align with, and expand on, the steps listed should guide unit locations on the battlefield, maintenance in training and evaluation outlines (T&EOs). The manual team composition, capability, and size, and aircraft evacuation provides an expanded discussion of many of the performance thought processes. steps leaders will see in T&EOs guiding aviation tactical Except for ATP 3-04.2, all documents are available tasks. We took steps to align the content in the ATP with from www.armypubs.army.mil. The DOTD Doctrine T&EO performance steps and to fill in gaps as a more in- and Collective Training Branch maintains a summary depth guide to planning, preparation, and execution of these product showing the current status of all doctrine, training, tactical tasks. Just as an aircraft operator’s manual provides and training support products available from DOTD. expanded procedures when compared to a checklist, this It is available from https://www.ako1.us.army.mil/suite/ manual provides added depth and context to the steps in the files/8816809. T&EO. Our doctrine and training strategies must evolve to DOTD’s Survivability Branch recently concluded the address our current adversaries’ capabilities. Maintaining development of ATP 3-04.2, Aviation Combat Tactics status quo will mean losing a fight against a peer or near and Survivability. We are truly excited to see this manual peer threat. provided to the force, as it contains enhanced survivability techniques and threat information. I suspect this document COL George G. Ferido is the director and COL will help modernize mission survivability training in our (Ret.) Jimmy L. Meacham the deputy director warfighting units and improve our ability to be time-on- of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence target in any environment. It will be available soon on the Directorate of Training and Doctrine, at Ft. DOTD Survivability Branch IntelShare. Rucker, AL.
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine 29 July 31, 2019 Special Focus u Simulation & Training
Common Challenges and Means to Mitigate Them By LTC Eric Megerdoomian and numerous DES SMEs
he Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES) When executing RL progressions, Aviation Mission Surviv- T is afforded a unique perspective of our branch. Through ability Officers (AMSOs) and IPs must develop tactical sce- assistance and assessments of our aviation units, we are exposed narios that employ the crawl, walk, run methodology. to units who struggle with similar challenges and are witness to After RL progression, flight schedules often fail to maxi- creative means to overcome them. mize every flight to develop pilot-in-command and air- mission-commander candidates. Annual Proficiency and RCM Readiness Tests must be tactically focused IAW the Aviation Leaders of Rated Crew Members (RCMs) allow improper Warfighting Initiative, TC 3-04.11, and our Aircrew Train- procedures to manifest due to mission requirements. This ing Module (ATM) and nested in doctrine. creates a culture that accepts deviations from the standard Range constraints and time availability is affecting our dictated by our regulations. It is common to find organiza- gunnery training. The TC 3-04.3 is designed to give units tions disregarding AR 95-1, TC 3-04.11 and their own unit as much freedom as possible and encourages creativity to Standard Operating Procedure in the execution of their Air- overcome challenges and constraints. If we utilize these crew Training Program (ATP). Centralized Aviation Flight products and employ our doctrine, we will greatly increase Records System (CAFRS) templates, Battalion and Brigade readiness, survivability and lethality. level oversight, and the use of the DES Individual Aircrew Training Folder (IATF) review checklist will address these NRCM shortfalls in the management of the ATP. Leaders must take a proactive approach in assigning In addition to ATP management, RCM mission proficiency Flight Instructors (FIs) or Standardization Instructors (SI) is decreasing because of a disproportionate focus on base tasks or Soldiers with the “N1” Additional Skill Identifier (ASI) over mission tasks during Readiness Level (RL) progressions. deliberately to mitigate standardization challenges our Non- Often, this is attributed to the large number of RL progres- rated Crewmembers are facing. We have observed a rapid sions required with a limited number of Instructor Pilots (IPs). turnover rate in enlisted NRCMs challenging nearly every
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 30 July 31, 2019 ALL PHOTOS BY LTC ERIC MEGERDOOMIAN ALL PHOTOS BY LTC
unit across our branch. With promotion rates, MTOE grade- Maintainers with 4-4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion prepare an AH-64D for an attack against enemy forces out of friendly contact on 13 MAR 2015 plate restrictions, and the normal career glide path of mid- during a field training exercise at Fort Carson, CO. grade NCOs moving out of flight companies, we are not retaining vital ACM experience where risk is greatest. This loss of experience is clearly visible during DES assessments as academic knowledge is suffering, indicated by an average written evaluation pass rate below 55%. Marginal flight course based on minimal utilization or PCS dates. Rather, performance and low FI knowledge levels are also frequently we should understand and utilize AR 614-200, (paragraph observed. In order to man the Standardization Instructor (SI) 4-6i) which enables commanders to adjust service-remaining at the Battalion level, commanders are forced to send junior requirements (SSR) with HRC's approval when Soldiers E5s to the Air Crewmember Standardization Instructor complete the ASCI TDY and Return to the unit. This allows Course (ACSI) with just enough flight time to meet course the Soldiers to attain an assignment eligibility and availability pre-requisites and then assigning them to E6 positions at the (AEA) code of “G” giving stability under “special category” battalion level. These SIs who are now responsible for ATP not to exceed 48 months. management, gunnery, and junior FI mentorship, generally Despite the great potential for change in the future, ultimate- do not possess the experience necessary to be successful in ly, we must find creative means to incentivize the importance of these positions. standardization for our NRCMs in the flight companies and ASCI at United States Army Aviation Center of better manage the resident experience within our formations to Excellence (USAACE) has found that less than 40% are mitigate risk through training and standardization. still executing SI responsibilities due to promotion, End of MX Time in Service (ETS) and accessions to the Warrant Officer corps. We have also observed a negative career stigma in the Army Aviation maintenance is undergoing significant NCO corps favoring (for promotion) those who directly change. The development of the TC 3-04.71 Aviation Mainte- lead troops verse those who choose a flight centric path. This nance Training Program (AMTP) is the most significant which stigma leads our experienced enlisted crewmembers to pursue affects all units. The qualification, currency, and proficiency of positions outside of the flight companies leaving these units enlisted maintainers has been over-looked for many years and with considerably less capability. the AMTP is a means to deliberately integrate the training of The problem set is being addressed by our branch, but our maintainers. The .71 assists in formalizing the qualification we can take some actions to mitigate the impacts of FI/SI and proficiency of our maintainers much like the ATP. Our shortages within our units We should also consider removing units cannot stop maintenance and build combat power simply self-imposed restrictions in our Standard Operating Proce- to focus on train maintainers. This program enables the train- dures (SOPs) that prevent sending candidates to the ACSI ing and qualification of our maintainers concurrent to execut-
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 31 July 31, 2019 ALL PHOTOS BY LTC ERIC MEGERDOOMIAN ALL PHOTOS BY LTC
A crewmember prepares to receive passengers on his UH-60 at the National We assess the lack of mentorship is a result from two causal Training Center on October 16, 2016. factors stemming from our senior warrant officers and non- commissioned officers. First, a minority of our maintainers do not understand how to execute the maintenance tasks to ing maintenance tasks. Units should begin to implement the standard themselves making it nearly impossible for them to AMTP as this program will be in effect by FY21. coach, teach, and mentor. Second, a minority of our senior Parallel to the lack of a formal maintainer training maintainers do not spend the requisite time on the hangar program is the lack of mentorship we often observe in units. floor or on the flight line mentoring junior Soldiers executing 15th Luther G. Jones Army Aviation Depot Forum
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine 32 July 31, 2019 their tasks. Combined, our Soldiers lack the development to develop and sustain a strong ATP. First, we must forecast and mentorship necessary to execute their tasks to standard early the loss or movement of IOs in order to ensure timely resulting in a reduction of our combat power. replacements are postured to provide the necessary oversight. Second, we must commit our Standardization Pilots (SPs) of UAS units with UAS to become intimately aware of UAS training The most prevalent challenge concerning Unmanned requirements themselves, then train, mentor, and develop IOs Aircraft Systems (UAS) across the aviation enterprise is the within their formations. Finally, the SPs and commanders full integration of UAS into the Combat Aviation Brigades should provide the same level of oversight of the UAS (CABs) and the Heavy Attack Reconnaissance Squadrons formations and their ATPs as any other within their purview. (HARS). On assessments we observe relatively less command involvement and oversight of UAS formations than manned Summary aircraft formations resulting in poor ATP management, DES witnesses firsthand the challenges our units must maintenance, reporting, support, and training. Though typi- face in training as we prepare to fight in large scale combat cally caused by the physical dislocation of UAS units, chal- operations (LSCO) and Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). lenges with launch / recovery sites, training areas, or off-cycle The challenges in standardization of rated and non-rated deployments, leaders at all levels should continue to strive and crewmembers, training of our maintenance personnel, and find creative ways to provide oversight during training. integration of our unmanned aerial systems operators are In execution, we often find UAS crews attempting to sup- very real. Although Aviation Branch is working diligently on port the units’ mission but lack the necessary security / recon- training and doctrine initiatives to build the combat power naissance guidance or tools to do so effectively. This inhibits of our future forces, we must develop and employ near term the UAS Aircraft Commanders (ACs) ability to execute dis- innovative solutions to help lead and develop our current ciplined initiative and reduces the effectiveness of the crew. force. Consider the options mentioned above to mitigate Use of the commander’s security or reconnaissance guidance these challenges at least as “A Way” of counteracting the and Information Collection (IC) are critical elements that challenges and building lethal and survivable formations able enables ACs and transform operators into scouts. to fight and win in a complex environment. Lastly, we often observe relatively poor standardization programs within UAS organizations. The immediate cause is a lack of proficient ATP managers largely attributed to the LTC Eric Megerdoomian is the deputy director of Instructor Operator (IO) shortages across the Army. the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization Given these constraints, CAB and BN commanders (much at the United States Army Aviation Center of like NRCM/N1s mentioned above) can set the conditions Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine 33 July 31, 2019 Special Focus u Simulation & Training NTC EAGLE TEAM COURTESY PHOTO TEAM COURTESY NTC EAGLE Building Aviation Readiness & Lethality at the National Training Center By LTC Clint Cody, LTC Peter Schmitt, and LTC Cameron Gallagher
ver the past twelve months the aviation trainers at the TF 3-17th CAV, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, conducts a combined arms O National Training Center have been extremely busy rehearsal for a deliberate attack out of friendly contact at their tactical observing, coaching and training our aviation formations assembly area. as they endure the 14 toughest days in the Mojave Desert. Below, we will discuss Eagle Team’s initiatives and how ing the day and under night vision devices to fully test our air- they play a crucial role in building readiness and increasing crew’s ability to fly and fight in all modes to include under live lethality within our formations across Army Aviation. fire conditions. Once the day mission is over, we conduct a thor- ough hot wash at the unit’s Jump FARP and prep for the night China Lake IADS Training iteration and re-attack. Immediately after the mission con- During FY 2019, Eagle Team continued building and ex- cludes, Eagle Team secures all gun tapes along with video from panding our partnership with Naval Air Weapons Station, the threat systems and builds a comprehensive 10-15-minute China Lake, CA and as such, our Integrated Air Defense classified AAR video, which matches both friendly and enemy System (IADS) training mission sets. This complex mission actions in time and space. This allows the air crews to see how requires rotational training unit (RTU) air crews to skillful- specific threat systems acquired, tracked, and engaged their air- ly navigate, tactically maneuver and fight their way to their craft and which TTPs were successful. Specifically, the AAR Attack By Fire (ABF) positions and Landing Zones (LZs) video is invaluable because it highlights that the use of terrain, through an IADS comprised of Tier 1 threat systems that altitude, airspeed and properly programed and functional air- rotary wing aircraft are likely to see in the current order of craft survivability equipment (ASE) will allow them to success- battle. Unlike current permissive environments in Afghani- fully and safely get to their ABFs or LZs in order to either put stan or Iraq, our air crews must fight their way in, fight on troops on the ground or steel on target. the objective and fight their way out in order to survive in the The big win for the Team was the securing of funding to decisive action training environment. increase execution from once per quarter for select units to As designed and scripted, the mission is executed both dur- every active component rotation that comes to the NTC,
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 34 July 31, 2019 which is currently eight times per year. Our standard mis- advanced table gunnery requirements, but more importantly sion sets continue to be the following: attack out of friendly exercised planning at echelon from CAB TAC to Aviation contact (AH), attack out of friendly contact with follow on TF to the company/troop level. raid (AH, UH, CH) and the fly through (all MDS). We also have shifted this event to occur during the live fire portion of What’s Next? the rotation, which provides an opportunity for the Aviation The Eagle Team will continue to lead our Aviation branch Task Force’s crews to receive advance gunnery table credit. in observing, coaching, and training Aviation Task Forces in Based on the rotational construct and amount of aircraft that the conduct of decisive action operations. The components the Aviation Task Force brings with appropriate ASE, will that define world-class combat aviation training at the NTC dictate which mission set the unit will be able to execute. are and will continue to be the pace and mission complexity. Since our update last year, three combat aviation brigades However, by far the most important resource at the NTC have employed their tactical command posts (TAC) in sup- are the quality of Aviation, Intelligence, Fires, Signal, and port of their respective Aviation task forces. All three ele- Sustainment professionals which comprise our team. It is ments received the mission order from 52 Infantry Division (ID), coordinated for division and joint enablers to include fires, fixed wing, and UAS to both gather intelligence and set the conditions for their respective TF and air crews to ex- ecute. After conducting a repetition of MDMP, each TAC briefed their respec- THOMPSON OF CPT CODY PHOTO COURTESY tive TF on the mission, which allowed each TF to focus on RP inbound maneu- ver and EA Development. Another ben- efit of CAB TACs – ranging in size from 6-20 personnel – is that they provided the requisite subject matter expertise not typ- ically assigned to a BN/SQ TF to assist with planning and coordinating a 52 ID AH-64D refueling and re-arming at the Jump FARP. shaping operation. The feedback from these three organiza- NTC EAGLE TEAM COURTESY PHOTO TEAM COURTESY NTC EAGLE tions – both from a HICON and EXCON perspective – has been vital to improving the quality of the mission products through our member’s collective ingenuity, guided by doctrine and injects we provide to the RTU. and facilitated by a “how to get to yes” attitude, that the out of friendly contact attack scenario at China Lake was born. That Advanced Table Gunnery said, one must ask, “what’s next?” In order to meet advanced table gunnery requirements The next step is for our Aviation community’s supporting (Table IX and XII) as outlined in TC 3-04.3, Aviation agencies to bear witness to the training taking place and to take Gunnery (March 2019), Eagle team has incorporated different lessons learned back in order to foment change in the greater mission sets into the force on force under live fire conditions force. Product Office for Common Systems Integration (PdD phase of the rotation. Based off of the Aviation TF’s crew CSI), along with the Threat Warning Product Office and rep- qualification status and commander’s training objectives we resentatives from Northrop Grumman, were the first to jump are able to include hasty attack missions in support of the at this opportunity during rotation 19-07. Topics discussed BSA defense (Table VIII/IX) and deliberate attack missions ranged from how the IADS threat is replicated at NTC, where (Table XI/XII) so that air crews are able to not only leave training shortfalls exist, technological limitations that contrib- NTC as recent participants in the world’s largest combined ute to those shortcomings, and timelines/capabilities for PMO arms live-fire exercise but also with team qualification (Table ASE developmental efforts (i.e. ASE B-Kit Emulator [ABE]). IX) and platoon training (Table XII). We invite all – from the Army Reprogramming and Anal- Either as part of a China Lake “fly through” mission in ysis Team (ARAT), the DOTD Aviation Mission Surviv- Echo Range or deliberate attack into Leach Lake, 52 ID will ability Officer (AMSO) branch, and other PMOs come to direct the aviation TF to conduct a deliberate attack mission witness firsthand the real-world training successes and chal- to destroy Donovian forces. In a recent example of a 52 ID lenges in order to guide future institutional and material ef- shaping operation, the aviation TF had four days to develop forts so that army aviation continues to be the most lethal a plan to support an ingress and egress route over 125 km asset on the battlefield. each way through a contested IADS environment, stretching lines of communication, the need for employment of a Jump LTC Clint Cody is the senior aviation trainer at the National FARP and over the horizon communications (both voice and Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA and former commander of digital). In addition, the Aviation TF was able to plan for 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment at Ft. Riley, KS; LTC Peter both live and constructive EAB assets to include UAS and Schmitt is the deputy aviation trainer / XO mentor at NTC and AF FW as well as 52 ID Fires from High Mobility Artil- the next commander of 4th Bn., 2nd Avn. Regt. lery Rocket System (HIMARS). The mission stressed every (Attack/Reconnaissance) at Camp Humphreys, warfighting function from planning to execution. After the Korea; and LTC Cameron Gallagher is the senior day iteration, the crews conducted a hot wash and executed aviation operations trainer at NTC and the next the same mission at night. This mission set met not only the commander of 1-501st ARB at Ft. Bliss, TX.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 35 July 31, 2019 Special Focus u Simulation & Training Focusing on the Deep Fight to Build Lethality: A JMRC Perspective
By MAJ Troy Gillett and MAJ Durward Johnson
training requirements, most command- ers would likely argue they still do not have the time to properly retrain a col- lective task to standard or higher prior to a CTC rotation. Getting another repetition or attempting to improve at a collective task eludes most formations prior to participation in a CTC. Would increasing the number of CTC rota- tions for BCTs be the right answer to get after lethality? Or would allowing A Shadow UAS simulation at JMRC. the BCTs more home station repeti-
U.S. ARMY PHOTOS BY LTC DARYL VON HAGEL DARYL ARMY PHOTOS BY LTC U.S. tions at collective tasks be a better fit for building readiness and lethality prior to participation in CTCs? How could we Cost to Readiness? build the necessary white space on the n March of this year in front of the training calendar to conduct retraining I Senate Armed Services Committee, JMRC and the other CTCs currently at the BCTs? the Army Secretary, Mark T. Esper and focus on brigade combat teams (BCT) the Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen- as the primary training audience. When Deep Fight Focused CTC Rotation eral Mark A. Milley, reaffirmed their units are slotted to participate, a major- One possible solution is for CTCs to vision and way forward to building the ity have limited time and resources to dedicate rotations to the division deep Army of 2028. Their vision focused on properly adhere to a training glide path fight. The Army’s ability to shape the readiness as the number one priority as to validate mission command systems division deep fight enables the BCT we man, equip, and train our forces for and prepare standard operating proce- fight to be successful during LSCO. A large scale combat operations (LSCO). dures necessary for decisive action in rotation focused on aviation maneuver As we build the Army of 2028, the the European environment. This trend and Joint and Army fires is critical in message from senior leaders is pretty is especially true for regionally aligned building lethality in our Army. While 1 clear—build unmatched lethality! A forces (RAF) observed deployed in the Army currently simulates the deep recent interview with General Milley Europe who normally have a JMRC fight through division warfighters emphasized increasing the number of rotation prior to redeployment and ex- conducted by the Mission Command rotations at combat training centers perience significant personnel turnover Training Program (MCTP) and many (CTC) in an effort to build readi- or major fielding upon return to home key observations are made to help shape 2 ness. We ask ourselves, “are we doing station. Most BCTs fight for limited our doctrine, are simulations enough to things right and are we doing the right home station training resources prior build lethality in the deep fight? The things?” Through observations as ob- to CTC rotations, which usually affects trends and observations from both servers coach trainers at the Joint Mul- the most important step of the 8-step MCTP and CTCs demonstrate both tinational Readiness Center ( JMRC), training model—conduct retraining. divisions and BCTs are not as lethal as the Army’s forward-deployed CTC, we As we modernize our Army, units will they could be in their respective deep are increasing the number of rotations need additional time to train and de- fights. A few examples of these ob- – we are doing things right. However, velop tactics, techniques, and proce- served trends include asset synchroni- are we doing the right things to effec- dures focused on LSCO. While the zation, massing effects, targeting efforts, tively build unmatched lethality? Army continues to reduce unnecessary and lack of a common operating picture
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 36 July 31, 2019 that provide a shared understanding. A of aircraft/aircrew form prior to a rota- CAB received a division order to shape way to reverse trends and build lethal- tion and more times than not disband the deep area prior to the BCT occu- ity in the deep fight may be to treat the immediately upon redeployment back pying tactical assembly areas (TAAs). warfighters conducted by MCTP like a to their organic headquarters. This is For the first time, a CAB commander Leaders Training Program (LTP) con- not ideal training when the goal is to was able to focus on his training objec- ducted at CTCs and provide another build lethality and readiness. The train- tives at a CTC since the CAB was the repetition focused solely on shaping the ing environment at CTCs is by far the dedicated training audience for that deep fight in a LSCO replicated envi- most realistic combat training envi- portion of the rotation. Operations ronment. General Milley said it best, ronment for aircrews to participate in. during the exercise included deliberate “In order to have maneuver, and we’re Participating aviation task forces usu- attacks against division high payoff tar- supposed to be a maneuver Army, you ally end up supporting and/or focusing get list (HPTL), reconnaissance (both have to have mass fires… we’re recap- on the BCT fight. However, aviation manned and unmanned to include turing it.3” “Recapturing it” through would likely already be employed by SIGINT), downed aircraft recovery simulations is “a way,” but is it the best the division in the deep fight, yet, cur- teams (DART), personnel recovery, air way to ensure unmatched lethality? rent CTC rotational designs do not ef- assaults, evacuation of causalities, and fectively replicate this fight. air movements focused on sustainment Put Me in Coach, I’m Ready to Build JMRC in concert with a highly low cost low altitude (LCLA) drops. At Lethality motivated CAB recently developed a the conclusion, JMRC observed value A combat aviation brigade (CAB) scenario focused on the division deep in executing the division deep fight and is inherently the most agile and le- fight. Utilizing all live, virtual, and con- will implement similar scenarios into thal organic formation in a division to structive capabilities, JMRC developed each rotation. JMRC is currently devel- conduct deep operations. Fighting as a deep fight scenario that facilitated oping an entire autonomous deep fight a CAB is typically only trained dur- participation of a CAB HQs, heavy at- rotation strictly focused on the CAB. ing warfighters through simulations – tack reconnaissance squadron (HARS), great for training staffs and validating general support aviation battalion Recommendation for Way Forward processes. When asked to participate in (GSAB), and an aviation support bat- As the Army is recapturing how to CTCs, most CABs send formations as talion (ASB). Prior to the start of the mass fires in order to facilitate maneuver, a battalion task force. A conglomerate Combined Resolve series exercise, the why not send CABs and other division level assets to CTCs to build lethality through repetitions of the deep fight? In order to ensure the Army is better prepared for future fights, CTCs should dedicate rotations focused on the divi- sion deep fight. The deep fight during LSCO is where the commander will assume great risk in employment of his combat power, as well as, where the ini- tiative can be gained enabling the odds for a successful BCT fight. A rotation dedicated to CAB and Fires training ob- jectives along with exercising a division staff, particularly the Joint Air-Ground Integration Cell ( JAGIC), will replicate the necessary repetition needed to build lethality that can only be replicated at CTCs. Innovation and maximizing live- virtual-constructive capabilities at our CTCs can help build the unmatched le- thality our country expects of us.
Notes 1 “The Army Vision” Office of Secretary of the Army, 7 Jun 18 2 “Army Gains in readiness are just the be- ginning, chief of staff says” by Sean Kim- mons, Army News Service, 17 Jan 19 3 Ibid
MAJ Troy Gillett and MAJ Durward Johnson are senior observer coaches assigned to the Joint Multinational Readiness Center ( JMRC), Hohen- Combat aviation brigade CAR. fels, Germany.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 37 July 31, 2019 Special Focus u Simulation & Training
Reflections on a Year in Atropia – Good, Bad, and Ugly By LTC Jason Davis
“We haven’t been in East Atropia for 25 years… we’ve been in East Atropia for one month 250 times.” U.S. ARMY PHOTO COURTESY JRTC ARMY PHOTO COURTESY U.S.
hat quote plays on the adage about The “Good” An AH-64D pilot from 2nd Battalion, 25th T Aviation Regiment prepares to conduct Americans’ penchant for relearn- When a “COIN hangover” emerges, deliberate attacks in support of 2nd Brigade ing lessons, but after a year serving at commanders break through the friction Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. the Joint Readiness Training Center in the battle staff to drive success. BCT ( JRTC) I can attest that when it comes leaders understand the peer threat and to combat training centers (CTCs), it is the need to mass aviation assets against true. Not pejoratively. ‘Groundhog Day’ it. They can visualize attack aviation environment, with minimal requests in Atropia is intentional. The JRTC bringing more firepower to the forward to OCTs for adding a Green Beans commander of Ops Group (COG) says line of own troops (FLOT) than most Café to “The Box,” and embrace low- ‘CTCs are the antidote to America’s first BCT weapons systems. BCT com- level flight profiles. Crews leave JRTC battles.’ The antidote is effective only manders can describe to their staffs knowing that “old school and low when observer/coach/trainers (OCTs) how to seize key terrain by massing as- tech” works against the opposing force provide consistent crucible experiences sault aviation assets, and they regularly (OPFOR) radar systems. OPFOR based on current threats. direct the integration of division-level often struggle to acquire and track the JRTC’s decisive action training en- aviation capability through their staffs. attack or assault force inbound to the vironment (DATE) provides that cru- Aviation task force (AvTF) com- objective and rely on human observers cible to brigade combat teams (BCTs) in manders know their craft and often play and to their knowledge of the terrain to preparation for large-scale combat oper- the dual role of commander and “avia- identify and counter inbound assault/ ations (LSCO) as well as support to se- tion coordinator” with the BCT. The attack aviation forces. curity force assistance brigades (SFABs) AvTF typically integrates well into the in preparation for deployment. My ten- BCTs command structure. Successful The “Bad” ure included both DATE and SFAB ro- integration manifests itself in staff-to- The “bad” typically occurs “left tations representing all components. staff synchronization, mirrored planning of crank” and begins in the military The year in Atropia included some horizons, shared threat understanding, decision-making process (MDMP). good, some bad, and some ugly just and battle-staff knowledge of capability AvTFs fail to manage talent and time to like any mission. The good news: the in space and time. ensure the best possible staff processes, coalition liberates Atropia. Even bet- Maintenance units have motivated manifested in poor mission analysis ter, every Soldier leaves the CTC with Soldiers able to operate in austere and fighting products. OCTs often see more experience and confidence and a environments using P4T3. Maintenance the XO/S3 delegate staffing actions to healthy appreciation for peer threats. leaders who rigorously analyze demand young officers lacking experience in the This year’s bad news provides an oppor- signals prior to rotation have better mission set or operation and without tunity for Combat Aviation Brigade readiness rates. Units who empower an example to use as a start point. leaders to shape their training plans junior NCOs perform downed aircraft Aviation branch Majors often and turn weakness into strength. The and area defense better than the rest. struggle to think critically, anticipate Army enterprise is already attacking Those empowered NCOs exist in units friction, and provide for subordinates’ ‘the ugly.’ The field can assist by provid- with focused leader development / development. Their failure to integrate ing input to the enterprise and turning certification programs. half of the battle staff and ignore the their own ‘bad’ into good. Aircrews accept the austere operating contribution of our talented NCO
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 38 July 31, 2019 corps is an example of battalion S3/XOs at JRTC ‘doing’ MDMP but failing to lead the staff through the process demanded by mission complexity. DATE also requires detailed synchronization between warfighting functions and among subordinate units of the AvTF, but staffs fail to build shared understanding through production and dissemination of fighting products. AvTF fighting products are usually weak and do not describe the commander’s expected tactical decision. The decision support matrix (DSM) often lists “GO/NO GO” criteria such as weather. The DSM “We haven’t been in East Atropia for 25 years… should describe the conditions required to change from a phased- to continuous we’ve been in East Atropia for one month 250 times.” attack, or when to re-prioritize loads on the pickup zone. Weak Battalion-level MDMP results in subordinate units unable
to conduct troop leading procedures JRTC ARMY PHOTO COURTESY U.S. to standard. Regardless of the order’s A platoon leader from 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division loads his Soldiers onto quality, TLP completion directly a CH-47F from 3rd Bn., 10th Avn. Regt. during an air assault. correlates to mission accomplishment according to JRTC statistics. It seems obvious, but units that brief, back brief, and rehearse using written orders succeed. Units reliant on folklore and staffs are less familiar with aviation core holistically within the CAB. Focused PowerPoint slides fail to achieve results. competencies not typically assigned staff training, hard force protection to their organic battalion unless the exercises, and tactical decision-making The “Ugly” CAB manages talent well. The attack events like Warfighters provide the reps Aviation units are among the most recon battalion HQ will not execute a needed to build readiness. Away from committed forces in the Army, with battalion air assault as well as an assault home station, the CAB must make limited dwell between deployments. helicopter battalion (AHB), and the the most of opportunities, such as Those deployments require detailed AHB cannot organically execute a 4th CAB’s blended training to certify train-ups and often force commanders deliberate attack out of contact at the “How the Ivy Eagles Fight” for their to make decisions on what mission ARB’s level of competence. Division. essential tasks (METs) to train and Long-term Battalion task organiza- The ‘ugly’ takes time and enterprise- pressure units to build collective task tion comes at a cost to organic expertise level energy to address. FORSCOM proficiency in a short amount of time. and places DATE readiness at risk, a and the Army Staff see the challenge The need for a supported ground force risk currently mitigated by senior Army balancing current mission support with to build true MET proficiency adds headquarters through careful manage- LSCO readiness. Successful balancing to the complexity. If home station ment of augmentation packages dur- requires leaders at the operational BCTs only execute company-level ing rotations. Current mission require- level and below to resource and Air Assaults, the CAB struggles to ments and historical precedence result synchronize training at echelon. That build readiness in assault helicopter in suboptimal task force organization synchronization prevents premature battalions. Divisions struggle to train and a BCT exposed to massed aviation collective training when individual the deep fight outside the constructive utilization at less intensity than desired readiness does not support execution. environment when artillery is unable to to build familiarity. BCT staffs exposed These challenges are not new. CALL source multiple battalions to conduct to the occasional AH-64 platoon de- newsletters in the 1990s outline similar Table XVIII alongside the attack liberate attack in contact or company challenges. We fought through them reconnaissance battalion (ARB) for air assault will not provide clear task then and will overcome them again. combined DIVARTY/CAB training. and purpose or assign battlespace to the One rotation at a time. CTCs replicate a Division-level AvTF and reduce the effectiveness of fight, with the BCT as the cornerstone the AvTFs role in the BCT deep fight. LTC Jason S. Davis is the senior aviation trainer (A06) at the Joint Readiness of the physical manifestation of that The Way Ahead environment. Within the live CTC Training Center ( JRTC) at Fort Polk, environment, the AvTF provides a Leaders must leverage the good LA. He commanded 2nd Battalion, 25th CAB’s complement of capability using to address the ‘bad’ during rigorous Aviation Regiment and is a graduate of less than one third of the assets. AvTF home-station training plans developed the U.S. Army War College.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 39 July 31, 2019 U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY OTIS WHITE ARMY PHOTO BY OTIS U.S.
Special Focus u Simulation & Training
The Simulator Instructor Operator: Setting Conditions for Success By CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton
hat does a good home station permanent party personnel assigned to Instructor/operator training for the Longbow Crew W simulator program or facility the facility, especially the instructor op- Trainer at Fort Rucker, AL, May 30, 2019, Fort Rucker, AL. look like? It is a simple question that erators (I/O). The I/O is the key expert, somehow defies common understand- normally stationed at or near the flight ing. The USAACE Directorate of simulator, and is the most familiar with Simulation’s (DOS) Simulation De- the day to day operations. The working century, the requirements to train an velopment and Accreditation Division relationship between the unit and the I/O were usually obvious and certifica- (SDAD) Helicopter Flight Simulator instructor/operators can greatly assist tion programs were well documented. Evaluators (HFSE) are often asked this in the administration of the command- The legacy full-motion Synthetic Flight question during simulator accreditation er’s aircrew training program (ATP). Training System (SFTS) with analog visits, which is the nexus of this article. Simulator Employment cockpits posed more safety hazards such While the Army has invested a signifi- as stairs, ramps, actuators, and lock- cant amount of resources into technical There has been a subtle shift in own- ing gates. Today’s transportable devices solutions, success is completely depen- ership and responsibility for simulator don’t pose the same safety threats and dent upon the expertise of the person employment over the past 15 years. In are equipped with intuitive I/O consoles assigned the specific mission to enable the early 2000s, Army senior leadership and operators are generally more famil- & realize the training device. In simple decided to discontinue regional simula- iar with many different computer func- terms, it takes a craftsman to wield the tion (full motion) centers and transition tions. Because of these technological tools to produce a quality product. to transportable devices. This decision advances, instructor pilot (IP) and I/O From the SDAD’s HFSE’s per- put the responsibilities of device man- training and certification are sometimes spective, the success of any simulation ning and maintenance on the local tac- taken for granted or viewed as not as program is the responsibility of the tical commander. Before the turn of the important as they were in the past.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 40 July 31, 2019 Instructor/Operators tions must be managed IAW AR95-1, Regardless of the historical chal- paragraph 4-11.f. The position descrip- ® lenges noted above, it remains a clear tion is the key to meeting the local com- requirement that someone other than mander’s mission requirements. a military flight instructor operate the At USAACE only the AH-64 synthetic device. Normally the unit IPs Instructor Pilot Course (IPC) has a SAVING LIVES SINCE 1981 are the primary trainer, but they are tra- formal I/O block of instruction included STILL OUR BEST SELLING PRODUCT ditionally short in supply and are more in the course management plan (CMP). ® involved in ATP administration and The other airframe IPs must rely on SKED CONTINUES TO SAVE LIVES readiness level (RL) progression in the the training that they will receive when aircraft. To supplement the unit’s train- they arrive at their duty station. Due to ing efforts, I/Os are provided to ensure the current OPTEMPO and readiness the simulators are ready for training. requirements this training may or may Every aviator is usually familiar with not occur and the military IP may the I/O at their duty station, but not never learn of the full capability of their all are aware of what duties the I/O can SFTS. Hence the need for effective actually perform. The acronym I/O (in- communication with IMCOM. **EQUIPPED WITH structor/operator) is itself ambiguous. IMCOM Coordination COBRA BUCKLES FOR At some installations the I/O is purely RAPID PATIENT PACKAGING a console operator, while at others, the The initial transportable SFTS field- I/O operates the device and provides ing concept in the early 2000s delivered ® SKEDCO PJ SKED varying levels of instruction and some- the modern device directlySKEDCO to the PJ tacti SKED- times even administers evaluations. I/O cal unit commander. As the frequency of (SK-215C) “LIGHTER responsibilities are usually based on the deployment increased, IMCOMs had FASTER individual’s training and background. to assume the responsibility for device EASIER TO CARRY” Hence a simulator operator may or may staffing and maintenance. This transi- not be an instructor. It is incumbent tion to IMCOMs has surfaced difficul- upon the unit to clarify its I/O needs ties at some Army installations. For ex- and to what standard the I/O should be ample, in the past DOS has been called trained and evaluated. A good I/O can by brigade commanders and asked why make a huge impact on the develop- they didn’t have a particular airframe ment of an aviator and can rewardingly I/O assigned to their post. These types supplement/complement the unit ATP. of situations dictate adherence to AR 95-1, paragraph 4-11.f. and the need Defining I/O Duties for effective communication between UNIVERSAL LITTER Neither AR 95-1, nor TC 3.04-11 standardization personnel and the in- TIE-DOWN STRAPS™ clearly define the duties or description stallation. To reiterate, the command of the I/O. Although each Aircrew has the responsibility to implement a NSN: 6530-01-530-3860 Training Module has a Task (ACC- viable standardization/quality assurance 5000): Operate a Flight Simulator program to ensure I/O proficiency. I/O PATIENT LITTER STRAPS from Instructor’s Station, a tangible job description is key to program suc- standard is not defined. AR 95-1, para- cess. Military IPs must be educated as to NSN: 6530-01-536-4145 graph 4-11.f. does state, “Commanders the limitations (accreditation memoran- working in coordination with Instal- dum) and training capabilities of their lation Management Commands (IM- individual airframe SFTS in order to COM) establish I/O responsibilities, effectively administer the ATP. competencies, and requirements to sup- In closing, a good tool in the hands port the aviation mission of the unit of a poor craftsman will not yield designated to utilize the facilities.” Some good results. The craftsman must fully people would argue that a clear I/O def- understand the capability of the tool. inition has been historically avoided in order to provide the commander flex- CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol (AH-64D/E ibility when determining their home SP/IE) and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton The only Litter Tie-Down Strap station needs; others would stress lack (CH47) are both aircraft subject matter with Airworthiness Release of clarity enables a lower funding sup- experts at the U.S. Army Aviation Center port option. In the past, commanders of Excellence Directorate of Simulation, Ft. (AWR 1330), 3000lb MBS. sometimes used unit trainers (UT) as Rucker, AL, responsible for DOS’ global Patient Litter Strap, 5000lb. console operators to train selected tasks. mission of simulator Mission requirements at some installa- accreditation and pro- tions dictate the use of contractor I/Os, viding expertise on the while other simulation centers choose development of simula- WWW.SKEDCO.COM to utilize DOD civilians; normally GS tor upgrades and future 800-770-7533 1712 Training Specialists. Both posi- simulation capabilities.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 41 July 31, 2019 ALL PHOTOS: 160TH SOAR COURTESY PHOTO 160TH SOAR COURTESY ALL PHOTOS:
Special Focus u Simulation & Training Field of (Simulated) Dreams By CW5 Michael J. Hangge
Top left: LASAR Simulator – Few helicopters are as maneuverable as the A/ light simulators are the impenetrable tents of our collective MH6 and even fewer units fly their fleet as close to the limit as the 160th F childhood where even the most vicious bears cannot hurt SOAR (ABN). The LASAR Simulator emulates the flight conditions of the A/ us. They are a safe place to practice dangerous maneuvers MH6 helicopter. and morph rote memorization into applicable knowledge. Top right: LASAR Pic – Rain, sleet, or snow – if we fight in it, then we train They provide an environment where the worst conditions in it too. can be replicated without risk, maneuvers can be trained to proficiency, and crews can gain confidence and experience. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment Training System (MRETS) was built as a Field of Dreams (Airborne) has five of the world’s most advanced Combat proof of concept to integrate semi-automated enemy systems Mission Simulators (CMSs) integrated together on the as well as imitate near-peer capabilities to simulate operations same acreage. They are the most capable and highest fidelity against virtual enemies replicating real world threats. helicopter simulators ever built with a uniquely tailored task ‘Longhaul connectivity,’ both inside and outside our fence list twice the size of any other. line, will soon connect our simulated federation to the greater military enterprise. And we are now experimenting with VR/ Keeping Current – A Team Effort AR technologies which retired regimental simulations officer The Night Stalker Simulations Team has accomplished so Will Ellison believes will “soon permeate every aspect of many great things that only a small snapshot could fit in this crew training to enable full crew participation in iterative and publication. Every simulations tool from DeskTop Trainer to mission training in both standalone and distributed modes.” CMS is currently concurrent with, and will soon be ahead of Dan Lynch, PEO-STRI Simulations Lead Engineer, our aircraft, allowing crews to train in the box before they fly in adds that “VR/AR technology may allow crews to sit in a the air. Our motion systems are finely tuned to simulate how ‘virtual cockpit’ used for collective training at a significant closely we operate to the limits because few units fly their fleet cost savings, allowing crews to interoperate with other VR like Night Stalkers do. Our visual environment is so immer- stations/CMSs/CFTDs to enhance the training capabilities sive that even the most impressive Virtual/Augmented Reality of all devices. The VR/AR training stations could also be (VR/AR) technologies may not be able to provide significant packed-up and used as mission rehearsal devices to allow improvements. Our Special Operations Forces Planning, Re- crews to fly their routes in 3D environments before executing hearsal, and Execution Preparation (SOFPREP) team builds their actual mission.” background databases to utilize semi-automated forces, cre- ates mission rehearsal builds to support deployed personnel, Taking a Fresh Look and works in simulated reality to create precise, geo-specific, Yet the Regiment is never satisfied with just ‘the best’ be- 3D visualization databases used in the CMSs and standalone cause there are always ways to be better. Right now, helicopters systems for mission planning/rehearsals of planned or short- are straddling the edge of a long-anticipated technological leap notice missions. Our current Mission Rehearsal and Exercise to make ‘90 knot helicopters’ as antiquated as Igor’s fedora. And
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 42 July 31, 2019 flight simulators are perched patiently for that same trust fall. Top left: The Beginning – Entire simulator computer rooms were once filled with the technology now available in most teenagers’ cell phones. So, we are taking a fresh look at everything we do, how we can do it better, and working to implement the most Top right: MJH60L Simulator – The MH60L Combat Mission Simulator was revolutionary new distributed training program utilizing the so advanced for the 90s that you could forget it was a simulator. most technologically advanced simulator systems. Our vision is an all-encompassing federated simulations environment of total and complete immersion from aircraft maintenance to month as an actual aircraft.” But operational cost comparisons planning, briefing to rehearsal, and execution to debriefing – alone barely scratch the true savings potential. Cutting back on, JTACs to jumpmasters, medics to evasion/resistance, drivers but never eliminating, actual training exercises would pay for to shooters… We envision wooden walled planning areas with this vision just in TDY expenses. dirt floors and countdown calendars; fully-simulated TOCs in The most critical aspect of simulations training, however, ship compartments with storms raging over the thrumming will never be the simulators themselves. The actual tool used of diesel engines; Flight Leads meeting their ground force isn’t necessarily as important as the knowledge of how to ac- peers in fully-accurate virtual buildups of the target area with complish the task and it is far too simplistic to believe bet- weather and enemy forces; and yanking mission crews out of ter fidelity alone equals a better simulator or better training. simulators to be worked on by medics, worked over by SERE Too often, the training is adapted to the available tools rather specialists, or tossed into hurricane waters. All of this will than the right tools being developed for the best training. A ensure that the first time a crew is thrust into any situation well-designed training program is an absolute necessity for will not be the first time they have experienced it. continual evolution and improvement throughout every spec- trum of training to remain ahead of potential enemy efforts. Keeping It Real The True Value Jeff Stafford, Simulations SME, suggests we can no longer simply “throw on a headset and climb into a climate- Simulators have always been the backbone of initial and controlled simulator just to log time. We must increase all continuation flight training focused on basic flight skills and aspects of reality and difficulty by making our simulators emergency procedures, especially as aircraft become more less sterile. We must ‘dirty up’ the simulations environment complex and cognitive. The majority of training efforts must by matching extreme simulator temperatures with mission focus on creating the ‘expert aviator’, however distributed conditions; inserting automated ‘non-playing’ personnel and simulated training is now capable of also making crews who are vehicles; lighting billboards and traffic lights; and pumping highly adept at employing those aircraft as part of an entire task in the smells of jet fuel, cordite, and third-world funk.” force. By evaluating how to best learn, we can learn how to best The MRETS is the first step towards this dream and, as it teach, and we can then design better simulation experiences. continues to mature, all-encompassing mission rehearsal and “The true value of simulated training cannot be measured execution centers will be perfectly poised to replace singularly in dollars spent or lost, it can only be measured by the lives tasked simulators. We are currently researching numerous new of husbands and wives, fathers, sons, mothers, and daughters technologies and capabilities to uncover the most advanced who have been saved by the proficiency, experience, and means to accomplish our lofty goals. We are also highly confidence provided in a simulated environment of complete conscious that, despite the many impressive new technologies safety.” – Joe McManus, MH60 Simulations SME. emerging every day, all technology will eventually falter while Special thanks go to the amazing Night Stalker Simula- plain paper still excels – it is a fine line to advance without tions Team of SMEs, coordinators, instructors, RSOs, PMs, losing touch with the basics. SOFPREP, and vendors who do the heavy lifting every day. Of course, money is always an immense hurdle, but the eventual cost savings of this vision would be tremendous. Chris CW5 Michael J. Hangge is currently assigned as Conrad, owner of Veraxx, estimates that “simulations cost about the 160th/SIMO Mission Planning, Simulations, a fifth of the price, operate at about a nickel on the dollar, and and Future Technologies Branch Chief. He can be produce more than six times as many available flight hours per contacted at [email protected].
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 43 July 31, 2019 Feature u Army Aviation in Army Futures Command By COL Michael J. Best and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi U.S. ARMY U.S. GRAPHIC
Figure 1. U.S. Army Futures Command Task Organization with Aviation
n June 4, 2018, the Honorable Mark T. Esper, Secretary and Modular Open System Approach (MOSA). The FVL O of the Army, approved Headquarters, Department of CFT is also tracking closely the development and fielding of the Army, General Order Number 2018-10, establishing Improved Turbine Engine (ITE) as a complementary enabling Army Futures Command with a full operating capability capability for current and future forces. date of July 1, 2019. Similar to 40-plus years ago when General Starry’s Air Land Battle doctrine created the most CCDC feared combined arms Army in the world, the Army Futures In the Combat Capability Development Command Command is now charged with leading the Army’s future (CCDC), all the research centers and the Army Research force modernization enterprise to respond to new multi- Laboratory are combined under a single organization. Of domain security challenges. course, the Aviation Enterprise continues to have first rate AFC establishes unity of command and effort by consolidat- support for aeronautical science and technology from the ing the modernization process under one command. The Army CCDC Aviation and Missile Center at Redstone Arsenal, leadership is directing AFC to turn ideas into actions through Alabama. They are involved with all the CFT and non-CFT experimenting, prototyping, improving acquisition business aviation efforts developing and coordinating research and processes, and pursuing appropriate commercial options. Most development activities. importantly, AFC must directly incorporate requirements from the warfighter and reduce the time to deliver those require- Combat Systems ments in order to maintain the Army’s competitive advantage. Combat Systems has the responsibility to refine, engineer, So how does the Army Aviation Enterprise fit within this and develop the solutions to meet identified requirements. The new command structure and new paradigm? Army Aviation Program Executive Office, Aviation (PEO AVN), working is well represented and a part of every aspect in the new AFC with Combat Systems and other PEOs across the office of the Command structure to determine and develop greater reach, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and lethality and protection solutions for the future (see Figure 1.). Technology), continues to provide the procurement processes Cross-Functional Teams and support structure for delivery of aviation materiel One of the first efforts established by the Army senior solutions. PEO AVN established the Program Manager for leaders was the establishment of cross functional teams FVL to work efforts with the FVL CFT. (CFTs). The CFTs in general terms are small, laser focused staffs designed to bring the top priorities to the field quickly FCC to enable multi-domain operations (MDO), the Army’s new Finally, the Futures and Concepts Center (FCC) is operating concept. The Future Vertical Lift (FVL) CFT located responsible to identify and prioritize development needs at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, coordinates the requirements and opportunities for the Army. FCC, formerly known as generation, science and technology (S&T) initiatives, and the Army Capabilities Integration Center (ARCIC), is still program management (PM) office activities for the FVL Lines located at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. FCC is creating of Effort: Future Advanced Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA), more horizontal and vertical synchronization of concepts, Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), Advanced experimentation, and integration of capabilities across UAS (AUAS)(includes brigade combat team (BCT) Future warfighting functions and overall capabilities. FCC leads the Tactical UAS (FTUAS) and Air Launched Effects (ALE)), conceptual transformation of the Army into MDO. In the
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 44 July 31, 2019 Figure 2. U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Organization new Future Force Modernization Enterprise, Army materiel OPFD requirements come from one of three sources: CFTs, Capability The Organization, Personnel and Force Development Development and Integration Directorates (CDIDs), or (OPFD) Directorate, responsible for Army Aviation force Sprint IPTs. Sprint IPTs are like mini-CFTs created for a design and personnel proponency policies, is a separate specific, short period of intense requirements determination reporting directorate to the deputy commander, ACoE. The and development based on an emerging operational need. TCMs will retain their traditional duties as user representatives CDID for currently fielded capabilities and the responsibility for executing testing and fielding new capabilities as they emerge. As a subordinate of FCC, all the centers of excellence Together, the CDID, FFID, and OPFD will be responsible (CoE) CDIDs provide proponent warfighting material for developing and integrating the doctrine, organization, requirements and priority recommendations through their training, material, leadership and education, personnel, respective CoE commanding generals, who remain the facilities, and policy (DOTMLPF-P) solutions for Army branch force modernization proponent. The Aviation CDID Aviation. The CDID focuses on future requirements, the still resides at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence FFID focuses on current and near-term capabilities, and (ACoE), Ft. Rucker, Alabama. The Aviation CDID retains the OPFD spans the lifecycle of formation design and aviation responsibility to develop concepts, conduct experimentation Soldier development. (See Figure 2.) and analysis, and document requirements for all aviation needs. No matter the organizational structure of the Aviation The CDID is the Materiel Developer for all conventional Enterprise, the CDID, FFID, and OPFD together are force Army Aviation materiel capabilities. The Aviation CDID dedicated to developing and fielding the best capabilities needed realigned into three subordinate organizations: Concepts, for Army Aviation. Collectively, we continue to represent the Experiments and Analysis Directorate (CEAD); Aviation Aviation Enterprise and are responsible for significant national Platforms – Requirements Determination Directorate – (AP- treasure to provide over-matching third dimension reach, RDD); and Aviation Enablers – Requirements Determination lethality, and protection in support of our ground commanders. Directorate – (AE-RDD). Together, we are a leaner, smaller All three organizations are well partnered with HQDA, the version of our previous CDID structure focused on and Army Futures Command, Training and Doctrine Command, dedicated to developing the future Aviation force with the Futures and Concepts Center, the FVL CFT, Aviation and needed capabilities to fight effectively in MDO. Missile Center, PEO AVN, and all of the other organizations, FFID staffs and commands that make up our Aviation team to provide America’s finest resource, The American Soldier, with CDID’s partner in fielding and integrating capabilities the capability to win on the next battlefield. is a new/old TRADOC organization under a new banner: the Fielded Force Integration Directorate (FFID). FFID Above the Best! retains the TRADOC Capability Manager (TCM) offices of Reconnaissance/Attack and Lift, a new office proposed as the COL Michael J. Best is the director and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi TRADOC Program Office (TPO) Aviation Enablers, the the deputy director of the Aviation Capability Development Threat Office, and the Aviation Survivability Development Integration Directorate (CDID) of the Futures and Concepts and Tactics (ASDAT) Team. Center, U.S. Army Futures Command, located at Ft. Rucker, AL.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 45 July 31, 2019 Feature u Aviation Systems Reorganizes By COL Johnathan Frasier and Ms. JoAnna Wright
Previously under Aviation Systems: AMSA as Aviation Systems was previously organized into five distinct PdOs and a combined portfolio of 49 product lines. Figures 1 and 2 show our organization’s realignment. These changes require the PdOs to work across organizational lines to execute their responsibilities. The reorganization of our internal structures allows the AMSA workforce to operate as a fully integrated organization where product offices depend on each other and AMSA headquarters to achieve mission success. As Project Manager for AMSA, it is my intention that our Soldiers are never in a fair fight and have the ability to win our nation’s wars. To achieve this intent, my focus is always on the Soldier first and foremost. I work continuously ALL GRAPHICS – U.S. ARMY AMSA GRAPHIC ARMY ALL GRAPHICS – U.S. to develop a professional workforce Figure 1. Aviation Systems organizational structure of product offices prior to reorganization. that extends trust inside and outside the organization, embodies the Army Values, and is committed to excellence. am proud to announce the Aviation Aviation Systems to provide the best With these tasks in mind it was, and I Systems Project Office has under- support to the Army Mission, our still is, critical to ensure the incredible gone an internal reorganization and is people, and provide our product offices talent that existed in Aviation Systems now the Aviation Mission Systems and (PdO) with the necessary authority and carry over fully into AMSA to provide Architecture (AMSA) Project Office. control to complete their missions. the best support to our mission. AMSA is an Aviation project office located within Program Executive Now under Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture: Office Aviation (PEO Aviation) under the leadership of MG Thomas Todd at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. AMSA has reorganized its opera- tional structure in order to better support U.S. Army and PEO Aviation priorities, optimize alignment and execution of crosscutting capabilities, and align talent to better serve mission success during a period of declining budgets. In late 2018, Aviation Systems con- ducted an organizational study asking one question: Does the Aviation Sys- tems organization need to change, and if so, how? The objective of this study was to consider how a realignment of our current structure might enable our organization to work more efficiently despite the challenges project offices face due to budget changes, changing sustainment resources, shifts in work- load, and contract requirements. The Figure 2. Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture organizational structure following reorganization. goal of a reorganization would enable Five Product Offices realigned into four.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 46 July 31, 2019 AMSA’s portfolio includes 49 distinct product lines which are now realigned under the four PdOs. The tireless work put into the organizational study ensured no product lines were Register NOW! dropped and talent and personnel were realigned to shift the workload toward a balance that enables all personnel to focus on the Soldiers and the mission. Opens 8/5/19 The successful implementation of this reorganization means AMSA can provide focused and responsive (No Onsite Sales) stakeholder alignment with the Army and PEO Aviation’s priorities. With a fully engaged workforce, skills are aligned to the products and processes, so they can contribute at a high level to mission success. New organization and product office ASE names mean new logos as well; our PdOs are currently in the design phase Aircraft Survivability Equipment and will announce new logos in the next edition of ARMYAVIATION. Symposium l Nov. 18-19
Since 1983, this annual event has brought the community COL Johnathan Frasier is the project together to develop life-saving solutions for the Aviation manager for PEO Aviation’s Aviation Mission Systems & Architecture Project Soldier; from Avionics and Survivability Equipment Office, and Ms. JoAnna Wright provides Repairers to Aviation Mission Survivability Officers to the communications-operations support on project offices and policy makers. AMSA headquarters’ Special Staff. Both are located at Redstone Arsenal, AL. Cribbins 47th Annual Joseph P. Cribbins Aviation Product Sustainment Symposium l Nov. 20-21
The AAAA Tennessee Valley Chapter is sponsoring this annual forum for aviation operators, logisticians, project managers, research and development and key decision makers to gather information and better support the Warfighter.
November 18-21, 2019 Von Braun Center, Huntsville, AL quad-a.org/19ASECribbins
Sponsored by AAAA #19ASECribbins
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 47 July 31, 2019 Reprinted from the August/September 1979 Issue of ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Historical Perspective u 40th Anniversary of the Black Hawk First Unit Equipped A GREAT DAY for the ARMY and The 101st! By General John R. Gutherie, Commander, USA Materiel Development and Readiness Command
Jim Thorpe’s son, Carl, we named the UTTAS the Black Hawk. This morn- ing represents another milestone in the Army/Industry effort to provide the total Army with modern equipment to enable it to meet the threat of the 80s. We are fielding the first production models of a modern, much needed troopcarrying helicopter of greatly increased capabilities to a regular TOE active Army unit, “D” Company 158th Aviation Battalion, the Ghost Riders. In so doing, we not only fulfill a commitment made 14 months ood morning, Ladies and I’m proud to say that I was Director ago when the Black Hawk colors G Gentlemen and members of “D” of Development in the Office of Chief, were presented to this unit upon its Company, 158th Aviation Battalion. Research and Development when the designation as the Army’s first Black This is, indeed, a great day for the demonstrator engine program began, Hawk Company, but also initiate a Army, for American industry and Deputy Commanding General for process which will see some 48 new for the 101st Airborne Division (Air Materiel Acquisition at AMC when systems fielded over the next 5 years. Assault). It is also, for me, a personal the UTTAS request for proposal was and professional pleasure and honor issued and the program began, that I to participate in another ceremony contributed personally to structuring marking the achievement of a major the program (we had no engineering milestone in the fielding of one of the development phase}, and that I was “Big Five,” and to represent not one again back in a responsible position but two Chiefs of Staff of the Army to help Bill, Gerry, and Dick through who would, except for pressing duties, their trials of initial production and be here today. They did, however, ask deliveries. Now, Dick will be leaving me to express both their regrets at us, at an appropriate time in that this not being able to come and their great development phase is now complete satisfaction that we have achieved this with the deliveries of these first milestone in the Black Hawk program. production models to a TOE unit, Too often we hear it said that but the rest of us will still be here to you can’t put your finger on who’s see how well his integrated logistics responsible for what happens – good support plan works. or bad – to a program. Normally, this is caused by the lack of continuity Another first for the 101st! of people in the job. It is a personal So much for such reminiscing. This pleasure, therefore, for me to point is, by any measurement, a truly historic out that there are at least four of us day for the Army and for the 101st here – Bill Crawford, Gerry Tobias, Airborne Division (Air Assault). An- Dick Kenyon, and I – on whom you other first for the 101st! Like that day can put the finger. 21 months ago when, with the help of
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 48 July 31, 2019 The two aircraft you have seen in flight handling qualities, and I am confident are symbolic of the culmination of many that your experience with Black Hawk hard years of effort by General Electric will be the same. Sikorsky Aircraft, their sub-contractors “D” Company is, I am sure, proud to in 43 states, and the government. Those be the first operational unit to receive, years, I assure you, were sometimes very maintain, and operate the Black Hawk. eventful for all of us who believed -who From a review of its history, I doubt knew - that the Army had to have a that the Army could have found a new troop transport helicopter which better unit to which to entrust this could survive on the battlefield of today new aerial combatant. “D” Company’s and tomorrow. I said we are fulfilling a record in war - 2 Presidential Unit pledge to “D” Company. We are doing Citations, 2 Valorous Unit Awards, 9 so despite the crash of a prototype in Vietnam campaigns - and in peach - on May 1978. That the program despite an training exercises and in civilian relief initial two-month delay, is now just one - bespeaks the courage, dedication, month off its original schedule. This and unselfishness which have always is a tribute to everyone involved in its marked the American soldier. development and production. As I looked, upon our arrival, from the men and women of “D” Company, A firm and steady hand 158th Aviation Battalion, to this heli- In particular, I would like to ac- copter, I was struck anew by the for knowledge the very firm and steady tuitous circumstances which unite hand which guided the Black Hawk Black Hawk and the “Ghost Riders” for program through this period – *COL I understand that the latter have cho- Richard Kenyon, who, as I said, with sen as their unofficial song a ballad of the initial Black Hawk fielding almost many years ago entitled “Ghost Riders completed, leaves the program. Be- In The Sky.” cause of his outstanding accomplish- ments, COL Kenyon was awarded the The pursuit of lasting peace 1978 Secretary of the Army’s Award Like the Ghost Riders of the song, for Project Management. He leaves the “D” Company’s modern Ghost Riders, program in good shape and for once, mounted on the Black Hawk, are also we are making the transition of PM’s engaged, with the rest of this proud at a rational point - when the system is Division and all of our forces, on what making its own transition from devel- must seem at times an equally endless opment to production and support. chase - the pursuit of lasting peace in Unquestionably, Black Hawk is a our world. Their mission - our mission major improvement over the 20 year - is, by being ready, to protect that peace faithful workhorse of the Army, the by deterring war; but if that proves im- UH-1. Black Hawk is our first true possible, to fight to defend and protect squad carrying helicopter with great- our national interests - and to win. ly improved survivability, reliability, Let me, in that spirit, close by and maintainability. (Just how greatly repeating for the benefit of “D” improved will be something for “D” Company and all those who will use Company to demonstrate.) It is not this fine aircraft what Carl Thorpe, son too much to say that Black Hawk is the of the great Jim Thorpe and member first Army aircraft designed, developed, of the Sauk Indian tribe from which and produced specifically with the sol- sprang the great Indian Chief whose dier in mind, from the combat squad name this helicopter bears, said of members to the mechanics who will Black Hawk twenty-one months ago appreciate the modular concept used when it was christened: for the T700 engine and other aircraft parts. I might add that this aircraft is so To this bird we say - highly regarded that, in addition to its “Go to the skies, primary role as a troop carrier, it is also To the clouds, and being considered as the basic airframe Challenge the thunder. for both Army and Navy electronics Bring upon your strong wings equipment. The peace of Black Hawk.” Most of you know that Black Hawk is already being used at Fort Rucker for I would only add that, God willing, we training, and I’m happy to say that we’ve trust that peace - and not war - will had “good vibes” from there. The pilots indeed be the Ghost Riders and Black have been elated by its performance and Hawk’s destiny.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 49 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT AAAA Chapter Affairs By LTC (Ret.) Jan Drabczuk I greatly appreciate the support from the Phantom Corps Chapter for authoring and sharing this information to our membership. The Phantom Corps Chapter
he Phantom Corps Chapter is located on Fort T Hood and supports the aviation professionals and families of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade (1ACB), 166th Aviation Brigade, 15th Military Intelligence Brigade, US Army Operation Test Command, Aviation Test Directorate, and Army Futures Command. CHAPTER GRAPHIC
Fort Hood is also home to Hood Army Gatesville to the north. Fort Hood is a planned visit to Army Futures Com- Airfield and Grey Army Airfield. The “The Great Place.” mand in Austin, Texas. The second will Phantom Corps Chapter has been be a family-style golf scramble that will serving and supporting aviation profes- Leading the Way include an 18-hole golf tournament, sionals and their families on Fort Hood In early 2019 the Phantom Corps a driving range social, and a putt-putt for decades. The chapter ensures that Chapter was reinvigorated by the tournament. The final event of 2019 this tight knit community has a voice addition of new chapter officers from will be an AAAA formal that all the before senior leadership, government, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade and 166th aviation units, aviation professionals, and and encourages the Army Aviation Aviation Brigade. The goal of the aviation support on Fort Hood will be profession. The Phantom Corps Chap- Chapter President is to have chapter invited to attend. The Phantom Corps ter currently has approximately 300 leadership from officers and enlisted as Chapter will be using the proceeds from members and will soon become a super well as current and retired military, that these events to give back in scholarships, chapter thanks to the engagement of represent the great variety of different recognitions, and other incentives to aviation leaders throughout Fort Hood. aviation units and assignments in and aviation unit members and their fami- around Fort Hood. The current chapter lies within the chapter. These events will Fort Hood History leadership includes Chapter President: network, support, and recognize not just Fort Hood was named after John Bell CSM(R) Doug Greene who retired the aviation professionals in uniform, but Hood, a famous Confederate Army from the Air Cav, Treasurer: Joann also their spouses and family members. General who commanded the Texas Courtland (former CW2) from US Brigade during the American Civil Army Operation Test Command, Vice Summary War. In 1861, John Hood resigned his President of Awards: CW5 Immanuel It is good to see the Phantom Corps commission in the Union Army to join DelaCruz, the Senior Warrant Officer Chapter gaining momentum at Ft. the Confederate Army where he was of 166th Aviation Brigade, and the Hood. Chapter growth and monthly/ quickly promoted to Brigadier General. Vice President for Membership: CW2 quarterly chapter events will help the A leader who always took the fight to Cristobal Quiroz from 1ACB. chapter provide a strong membership the enemy, General Hood was placed base. This will allow the chapter to also in command of the Army of Tennessee Supporting Aviation grow its support to Soldiers and their and aggressively opposed Union Gen- Readiness for the Future, families in the Ft. Hood area. eral Tecumseh Sherman during the and Beyond Feel free to contact me if you need infamous “March to the Sea.” Today, The Chapter has instituted monthly help for your Chapter, Executive Fort Hood is comprised of 340 square chapter meetings with special guest Board support, would like your chapter miles. The post stretches 26 miles from speakers planned quarterly. Having a featured in the AAAA magazine or east to west and 24 miles from north robust military community around Ft. to obtain clarification of National to south. Live-fire exercises take place Hood, speakers are planned from the procedures. I look forward to working on 50 ranges and 2 scaled-down ranges Army Futures Command, US Army with you and supporting AAAA. located throughout the posts maneuver Test Command, Aviation Test Direc- area. Fort Hood is approximately 60 torate, Fort Hood Garrison Command, miles from the state capital of Austin, and the Aviation Center of Excellence. LTC (Ret.) Jan S. Drabczuk and borders the cities of Killeen to the The Phantom Corps Chapter plans to AAAA VP for Chapter Affairs east, Copperas Cove to the west and host three events in 2019. The first is [email protected]
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 50 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA AAAA Chapter News Tennessee Valley ORDER OF ST. MICHAEL Chapter Fishing Tourney and OUR LADY OF LORETO Bluegrass Chapter The chapter hosted the Vlasics’ Classic INDUCTEES Recognizes Returning Bass Fishing Tournament on April 15, 2019 Aviator at Lake Guntersville, AL. Program Executive Office, Military Deputy, COL Robert Barrie Black Knight Chapter was on hand and took part in the presentation of awards. Organized by Tod Glidewell, VP Veterans Affairs, and Leon Hite, VP Enlisted Affairs, over 60 people from AAAA chapters across Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama braved windy conditions to attend. And this year an anonymous donor sponsored members of “Heroes on the Water” (HOW) and TVC AAAA staff partnered to sponsor wounded warriors to fish the event which PHOTO CHAPTER COURTESY concluded with Laura & Jack Bequette providing a Jambalaya and Brats luncheon. National AAAA Secretary MG (Ret.) Wally
CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO CHAPTER COURTESY Golden (left), together with Black Knights Once again, CPT Ron Shashy is back in Chapter president, COL Richard Melnyk, uniform to serve his country after a 24-year induct MAJ Walter Thomas (center left) and break in service. He is currently assigned MAJ John Wlasniewski into the Bronze to 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade with the Honorable Order of St. Michael at the U.S. Kentucky National Guard and flying UH-60L Military Academy, West Point, NY on April 25, Black Hawks. He has invested in the AAAA 2019. Both individuals were recognized for Bluegrass Chapter scholarship program to their mentorship to the cadets and service to help others with a $5,000 donation; AAAA the chapter as they prepare for change of duty. helped him with scholarships in 1995 & Thomas, who served as chapter secretary 1996 while he pursued his medical degree. and an instructor in the Department of Pictured left to right COL John Fraiser, The chapter recognized CPT Shashy for his Physical Education, will move to Hawaii as the Blake Douglas & COL Robert Barrie with the extremely generous contribution. battalion aviation officer for 2-25th Infantry; winning catch from the boater division; and, and Wlasniewski, the chapter treasurer and SoCal Chapter Golf regimental executive officer, 2nd Regt., U.S. Outing and Quarterly Corps of Cadets, USMA, heads to Europe and Meeting the 12th Cbt. Avn. Bde.
Left to right – Bubba White, Yulista (sponsor
CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO CHAPTER COURTESY of Big Fish); Mark Cory, Big Fish Boater Div.; The Southern California Chapter held their Dan Hardy, Kayak Big Fish; and Mike Key, second quarter meeting on June 1, 2019 Yulista Big Fish Sponsor. A special thanks to the sponsors for at the Fiddlers Green pub patio on the L.DORNER CHAPTER PHOTOS BY SHERRY Los Alamitos Army Airfield, Los Alamitos, making the fishing tournament possible: TVC AAAA, Boeing, Boenker Hill, Defense Tennessee Valley Chapter California. Pictured in front of a recently product manager for Enterprise Solutions, Radiance, PAE, Parker, LTC Rod Turner, restored Huey, UH-1 M-model gun ship Infrared Countermeasures is inducted into Quantitech, Big Oh’s, People Tec, 82nd are some chapter members and officers the Silver Honorable Order of St. Michael by Airborne Association, Screaming Eagle including: (far left) CSM Ron Cabrera, VP chapter president Gary Nenninger during a Aviation Association and Yulista. Enlisted/Awards; LTC Tom Lasser, Sr. (3d from ceremony at LogiCore Event Hall in Huntsville, left) VP; 2d from right LTC John Hendrickson, Want to change your AAA A AL on May 23, 2019. Turner was recognized President; and 3d from right, Mr. Mike Letson, for managing the current ASE portfolio of VP membership. The meeting was preceded Chapter Affiliation ? Infrared Countermeasures: Advanced Threat by the chapter’s annual scholarship fund- No Problem ! Infrared Countermeasure (ATIRCM) and raising golf outing held at the Seal Beach Common Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM). Navy golf course in Cypress, CA. Call 203-268-2450 Continued on Page 55
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 51 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT
AAAA Membership Update By CW4 Becki Chambers
The Membership Corner
y husband, Greg, is always asking me to keep M this question in mind as I perform the duties of Vice President of Membership: Why should people join AAAA?
One of the many reasons that I asked Becky to share her thoughts comes to mind is the statement on why she believes it’s important to that “Professionals join professional join a professional organization. She organizations.” But you might be summed up her reply perfectly in one asking yourself why is that true? One sentence: “Professional organizations person that can answer this question is are a platform for Soldiers to voice PERSONAL PHOTO FROM BECKY PINCKNEY CW3 (Ret.) Becky Pinckney. opinions, learn the near long-term CW3 (Ret.) Becky Pinckney and her son, Jaylon Becky first joined the Army in changes occurring in the Army, Porter, at her retirement ceremony. 1994. She was attending college at volunteer for great organizations, meet Austin Peay State University near Ft. Soldiers and Officers from all branches Campbell, KY, and, in her words, “the and places all while serving the Army just seemed cool.” After initially community in which they are living.” usawoa.org and select “online” store. As joining the Reserves, she switched to Additionally, Becky believes that ev- you scroll down, you will see the joint Active Duty in order to travel more and ery military leader needs to remember membership option. to change her MOS. She first enlisted where they came from and continue to By the time you read this article, as a personnel records specialist before grow. “Never be too big to admit your we will have finished the Spring becoming an air traffic controller. faults and continue to learn from every- Fever Membership Contest. I look While on active duty Becky was one around you.” Becky has no regrets forward to revealing the winners in an air traffic controller for the first about retirement as she made numerous next month’s magazine. This contest is 10 years stationed at Ft. Rucker, AL, acquaintances along the way, a great deal just another way to help us reach our Germany, and Korea. She became of friends, and gained a handful of fam- goal of 20K by 2020. We’ve made great an air traffic and airspace manager ily members. She will continue to be ac- strides in the last year towards reaching warrant officer for her last 12 years, tive in the local chapters of both AAAA that goal, and the momentum keeps stationed at Ft. Rucker, AL, and Ft. and the Warrant Officer Association. building. Besides these specific contests Hood, TX, with deployments to Iraq Like Becky said, networking, we keep running, please think of each and Afghanistan. She culminated knowledge sharing, and leadership day as a recruiting day. Ask yourself her career as an instructor/training opportunities are all great reasons every day, who can I ask to join AAAA developer. Becky retired in 2019 and is to join a professional organization. today? Make it your goal to sign up a now a training developer for PM A3S AAAA chapter meetings can help minimum of one new member every (formerly PM ATC) for Tactical Air facilitate these reasons: from guest month. Remember, anyone that has an Traffic Control Systems. speakers at the meetings, to developing interest in Army Aviation is eligible to Becky has been a member of AAAA leadership skills as an elected chapter join. And remember, the top recruiter for over 10 years. In addition, she has officer. Ultimately, being involved in for each month, with a minimum of 10 also been an active member of the a professional organization fosters new members signed up in that month, United States Army Warrant Officer the development of relationships that will receive $100 from AAAA! Association for over 11 years. She is a allow you to learn and grow in your Lifetime Member of USAWOA and profession. served as the secretary for The Above Did you know that there is a joint the Best Silver Chapter, Ft. Rucker, AL Warrant Officer Association/AAAA CW4 Becki Chambers for the last 2 years. membership available? Visit www. AAAA Vice President for Membership
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 52 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA New AAAA SGT Dakota R. Mercer SSG Justin C. Middleton Top Recruiter Program Life Members SGT Nathan A. Miller Aloha Chapter Peter J. Mock AAAA awards $100 to the member who recruits the most new members LTC Kacie Lee SSG Daniel W. Pennington in a given month (minimum of 10 members to qualify). Arizona Chapter SPC Carlos M. Rivera LTC William F. Hipple, Jr. Ret SPC Paul G. Rodriguez AAAA congratulates the following Top Recruiters: Badger Chapter MAJ Jonathan M. Romaneski COL Larry R. Boehme, Ret. SPC Joshua M. Sailer SGT Shawn Bourke Central Florida Chapter SGT Bryce D. Wood Sinai Chapter LTC Thomas E. Rountree, Ret. Idaho Snake River Chapter COL Delloyd Voorhees, Jr. Ret. WO1 Brandon T. Anderson Recruited 12 new members in March 2019! Connecticut Chapter Magnolia Chapter LTC Paul B. Hoar, Ret. WO1 Andrew L. Eaves 1LT Ryan Fiore Mrs. Natalie Pelland Morning Calm Chapter Winged Warriors Chapter Great Lakes Chapter CW5 Michael A. Corsaro Recruited 27 new members in May 2019! 2LT David Bindon SGT Andrew Ji CW5 James F. Wise, Ret. SFC Uziel T. Lopez For more information on this and other programs, contact your High Desert Chapter Mount Rainier Chapter Chapter officers or go to quad-a.org. LTC Cameron G. Gallagher MAJ Nicole Solana Keystone Chapter North Texas Chapter MG Jessica Wright, Ret. Ms. Haley Hartwick SGT Perceiver Tozaygono COL Jose Hinojosa Lonestar Chapter Phantom Corps Chapter SSG Jose A. Vasquez CW4 Delbert Jackson MAJ Thomas M. Kolb, Ret. WO1 Travis D. Watson SGT Edison M. Vera MAJ Gregory Jenkins Minuteman Chapter MAJ David Jobe ShowMe Chapter SFC Phillip K. Webb LTC Peter Kowal LTC James J. Lonchiadis SPC Lyza Jamerson CW3 Joshua D. Weston Beth Kramer Mount Rainier Chapter Tennessee Valley Chapter SPC Austin G. Wim CW3 Vladimir Kultschizky SFC Fabian Bandoo Tim Aultman Lost AAAA Members CW3 Timothy Larz Narragansett Bay Chapter WO1 Jackie C. Bottoms Help AAAA locate a lost member and MSG David Little Mr. Michael O’Keefe John Bullock receive a FREE one month extension to SPC Poblo Lopez North Texas Chapter Linda D. Diedrich your AAAA membership. CPL Williams Marquez SFC Jim Moore CPT Sean C. Thomas April L. East PFC Anthony Aleman Pikes Peak Chapter Fred Newcomb Daniel S. Gadomski CPT Robert Boham SFC Henry Rathbone Cw2 Jerid Hitchens Aimee D. Ghee Harold Bowie SPC Cameron Rumbo Tennessee Valley Chapter Brian M. Sullivan MAJ James Bruckart LTC Martin Scheld Ms. Kathy Willerton Washington-Potomac Chapter SPC Brett Butler Thomas Schiltz SPC Suraj Raj Mali E. Cavanaugh LTC Jerry Scott LTC Richard Cercone SPC Jeremy Sharkey New AAAA Winged Warriors Chapter LTC Tzu-Shan Chang SFC Brandyn D. Andres SPC Shelton Shia Members Kenneth Clark SGT Nishi Shogo Air Assault Chapter SGT Alicia A. Baum MAJ Harry Connors Brian Skiltow WO1 Daniel J. Adams SGT William F. Bavetta Cynthia Crutchfield Jeremy Smith Bryan L. Corbett Sr. 1LT Jordan D. Carbol Bruno Cussigh MAJ James Speelman Arizona Chapter CW3 Matthew M. Christopher SGT Travis Darnell LTC Friedrich Stern John P. Graham SFC Donald L. Cribbett CW3 Matthew Decker WO1 Armando Torres Aviation Center Chapter SPC Enrique M. Cuevas 2LT Arthur Galloway Kevin Tucker Michael Glass SPC Mark Villaluazo WO1 Cornelius J. Kettles SGT Travin O. Dashell MAJ Gregory Glover SSG Jose F. Esperacion MAJ L.D. Walker SFC John Timothy Pryor LTC William Goforth Rose Weast 2LT Paul J. Rankin CPT Kevin T. Filip Mary Gorman Nadia Whatley WO1 Julie Reinking CPT Philip H. Fons COL Gerhard Granz SSG Johan Zarae WO1 Andrea J. Romberger CW2 George L. Howard Tashia Harris Smith WO1 Sally R. Thomas 1LT David A. Jackson Desert Oasis Chapter CW2 Jayson D. Johnson James Allen Lippencott CPT William T. Lane Follow Me Chapter SGT Tavarus D. Lewis 1SG Deborah Ann Countryman SPC Natalie A. Li Griffin Chapter SSG Timothy J. McGrath SGT Jacob F. Casner SPC Kevin B. Muldrow PFC Jean E. Etienne SGT Janay L. Nutter SGT Matthew T. Golding SGT Timothy A. Robinson SPC Matthew S. Gunn SGT Kali T. Saini NEW for AAAA Members! 1LT Joseph LaMagna CPT Carey Wade Shepard Over thousands of Travel and Entertainment Discounts! UPCOMING EVENTS AUGUST 2019 1 Award Submission Deadline – Logistics Support Unit of the Year; Materiel Readiness Awards; Fixed Wing Unit of the Year; UAS Soldier & Unit of the Year 20-21 AAAA Luther G. Jones Army Aviation Depot Forum, Corpus Christi, TX 30-2 Sep NGAUS 141st General Conference & Exhibition, Denver, CO SEPTEMBER 2019 Simply Sign In To www.quad-a.org 30-2 NGAUS 141st General Conference & Exhibition, Denver, CO Click “My Discounts” – Start Shopping & Saving! 28 National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinement – Denver, CO
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 53 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT AAAA Legislative Report
By LTC Kevin Cochie, Retired AAAA Representative to the Military Coalition (TMC) [email protected]
Defense Budget Fight officers will move back and forth across changing the budget request right before Ramps Up the Potomac to underscore our needs and it goes to Capitol Hill is impossible. So, our A lot has materialized on Capitol Hill since advocate for funding and policy that aligns Aviation general officers confer often with last month’s article with the Senate and with our needs. They are busy because at congressional staff on these changes so House both finalizing their versions of the the same time, they are in parallel working when lawmakers move into their actions National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) the budget request for FY21 and they are to make edits to the President’s budget for FY20. We will focus on this because it working to answer the mail on the directive requests, some of them such as those sets the stage for the political dance we will report language that have hard deadlines. noted above are coordinated between witness in the coming months. the Pentagon and Capitol Hill. This is the Directive Report part of the process that works very well. Budget Authorizations Language (DRL) The other influence on changes occurs As discussed in previous articles, the Let’s take a little closer look at the through parochial influence by industry NDAA is the annual piece of legislation directive report language. When you look lobbyists and partisan organizations. that “authorizes” the DoD to spend at the hundreds of pages of DRL published We’d be fooling ourselves if we did not dollars for research and development, in conjunction with each chamber’s recognize that Sikorsky, Boeing, and large procurement, and sustainment. The other version of the NDAA, it reveals interesting companies as well as organizations like thing the NDAA does is guide and influence insight into parochial and non-parochial the National Guard Association contributed policy. When industry disagrees with the interests that effect Army Aviation. Political to the adjustments noted above. This direction DoD is going on programs, they influence happens on and off Capitol Hill, is not a bad thing, and a natural part of use their lobbyists to influence through but it is very powerful and often comes in the process. Another piece of DRL that the House and Senate authorization the form of DRL. In the Senate’s report, seems very promising also came out of committees (HASC and SASC). Each of they add detail on why they cut or add the Senate. They published a long and these committees pass a version of the funding authorizations to the budget lines detailed piece of language encouraging NDAA that will eventually be resolved in a requested by the President. Apache new the future vertical lift (FVL) acquisition conference period for a final version. Each builds is one example. We requested strategy be accelerated. There is strong of these versions comes with their own zero new build Apaches in the budget support on Capitol Hill to give our next accompanying report that issues directive request, but the Senate disagrees and generation warfighters advanced rotary report language (DRL) to DoD mostly in the added an authorization of $105M (3 new wing technology, but again, everything form of report and briefing requirements. aircraft). UH-60M procurement had a comes at a price and aviation is expensive These are aimed at making the DoD budget request of $1.4B, but the Senate so the puts and takes is a very challenging do more homework on the decisions felt that was too much and reduced the balance for our Aviation leaders to achieve. they are making. The HASC and SASC authorization by $140M specifically versions of the FY20 NDAA reveal that stating that 7 aircraft to be built for the Aviation Engagement Congress remains very interested in the active force would be reduced out of Continuity current state of Army Aviation readiness the procurement plan. UH-60V also saw We’ve had quite a few general officers as well as the future of our enterprise. action as Congress increased the $169M on the move this summer and one to note The President’s budget request has a request for the upgraded platform by is the return of BG “Mac” McCurry to Army topline of $750B in defense spending. The $35M (+8 conversions) noting the need G3 Aviation in the Pentagon. This is good Senate, controlled by the GOP, published for these aircraft in the National Guard. for Army Aviation because of his lengthy their version of the NDAA in alignment with What drives these decisions and changes? experience in Army G3 and G8 and extensive the President’s request while the HASC, The answer is two-fold. Remember, experience working with congressional staff controlled by the Democrats, published the FY20 Army Aviation Budget request and members. BG McCurry needs very little a version with a topline of only $730B. was built over a year ago and went to ramp up speed as he already knows the That’s $20B that must be resolved by Congress this past March. Life in DoD process inside and out and has existing the end of the fiscal year in September. In is dynamic, and requirements change and productive relationships with the key the coming months, our Aviation general over the course of 12-18 months, but influencers on the Hill.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 54 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA AAAA Awards OSMs Continued from page 51 LTC Nathan Lewis Our Lady CPT Joshua J. Waddell CW2 Derek Wilkinson of Loreto CW3 Dupree Bartley Recipients 1LT Justin Hall BG Marcus Evans 1SG Shawn A. Burns CPT Francesco Candelmo CPT Ryan Beilstein CW2 Eric Lopez 1SG Robert K. Derk CPT Jennifer Schaus Paige Forrester CSM Francisco J. Declet Courtney Miralrio CHAPTER PHOTOS BY SHERRY L.DORNER CHAPTER PHOTOS BY SHERRY Order of CW3 Robert L. Renny CPT(P) Savannah Livingston Erin Hubert St. Michael CW4 Travis R. Michael SSG Abimelec Santiago Sasha Moen His wife, Paula Turner, was also inducted Recipients CW4 Shai M. Bardfield CW4 Lorenzo J. Key Stephanie R. Vokert into the Honorable Order of Our Lady SFC Uziel T. Lopez CW5 Doug Finstad Lisa Michelle Edmonds of Loreto at the same ceremony for her SSG Jonathan H. Mize GOLD CW5 John J. Blank Melissa Kellum unfailing support of her husband over the CW5 Joseph Roland CW2 Rocky A. Myers LTC Robert Klarenbach Kathryn McNeal CW2 Victor M. Trinidad past 23 years. LTC Adam Reed Keown Tiffany Walker SILVER 1SG Lee A. Dalton COL Steven Braddom Sabrina Glaze CW5 Steven N. Russell CW4 Travis N. Westfall CW3 Jason Plonka Suzzane Harmon COL Rick Zampelli MSG Charles Raines Harry Statia COL Geoffrey Crawford CW4 Dominick J. Petro Elena Trawick COL Bernard J. Harrington CW4 Don-Carlos Moniz Linette O. Neal COL Erik Gilbert CW4 Benjamin Foster Honorable Jennifer Lee Rhoden COL Christopher W. Waters CW3 Craig Tomko Knight Sabrina Spurrier COL Brian Hughes CW3 Jay M. Thompson Recipients Jackie Schad COL Scott Beall CW3 Derrick R. Nunley Jessica Loeza CW5 Richard J. Rylee CW3 Bobby L. Escarciga Michelle Hernandez LTC Bryan Wiley CW3 Christopher Hise Lydia Garza BRONZE CW3 Francisco Cervantes Dana Clark MAJ Erika Holownia CW3 Joshua Bosak Sarah Anne O’Rourke CW4 Edward C. McKiver CW3 David Droste Christina C. Ehteridge JONES A. CHAPTER PHOTO BY GARY 1SG James P. VanAlstine 1SG Eric A Beilfuss Tammi Von Hagel Chapter President, Gary Nenninger, inducts MAJ Lauren G. N. Fernando 1SG Jorge H. Cobo Jenna Severs MG Kirk F. Vollmecke SFC Gregory D. Gore, deputy project manager, SFC Michael L. Manwaring CW3 James N. Bueby Heather Meyerhoff Andrea M. Sieg 1SG Perry Molden 1SG Jason Setliff Wendy Buzzard Utility Helicopters, into the Silver Honorable SSG Michael D. Reyes CW4 James T. Brzezinski CW4 John Kinard Abby Griffin Order of St. Michael on June 5, 2019 at CW3 Richard Satterfield SFC Rodrigo Valdivia MAJ Lukas B. Berg Brittney Myers Redstone Arsenal, AL. Gore was recognized CW4 Nicholas Quinn CPT Daniel Cannon 1SG Daniel J. Allan Katherine Waters CW3 Heath B. Robinson COL Brendan Raymond for his selfless and exceptional service which 1SG Brain McFarland Wanetta Armitage 1SG Jason M. Schad 1SG Christopher Cheasty BG Joel Vowell enabled the transformation of the Army’s CW4 Sean Martin 1SG Jermaine S. Grandison Tammie Friel utility helicopter fleet 1SG Jesse Taitingfong Amanda Gulsby 1SG Edzel Yadao 1SG Eduardo Alvarran BG Adnrew Preston Shari Hutcins CPT Michael Haynes CW3 Brian Tallent CSM Kevin Donegan CPT Michael Casares CW5 Bryan Synder CPT John T. Walsh Kalie St. Onge CPT Jay Irwin CW4 Steven Farabaugh CPT Nathaniel Berger Jennifer Griswold CW4 Brett Haskin CW3 Mark Sluss CPT Lauren E. Seibt Christa Ploetz MAJ Jared H. Brynildsen CW2 Erik Bartelt CPT Pepito A. Purugganan Marsha Setliff MAJ Aris J. Comeaux CW5 Bernard E. Litaker Jr. CPT Kathleen Rojewski Samantha Weston CW4 Charles S. Rhoden MAJ Anthony Snipes SFC Ricky Amon Lorena Blackwell CW3 Anthony S. Marion CW4 Thomas O’Grady MAJ Jamie Wright Christie Scott CW3 Andrew Lau CW4 Jason Nazarenko MSG Jerome Rogers Penny Goddard MAJ Billy D. Blue III SFC Christopher Rennie MAJ Jonathan Neal Jennifer Roley CW3 Phillip Owens MAJ Lisa Klewkowski CW2 Kyle Brouillette Michelle Waleski CW3 Charles R. Berry MSG Fidel DiazSantiago MAJ Kevin Hoffman Stephanie Lange PHOTO CHAPTER COURTESY Latana Pempleston Erves CW2 Vito McMillian CW2 Eric D. Hauser Sarah Mintz MSG (Ret.) Tom Migliozzi, UH-60 A/L CW3 David Southall CW4 Bradley J. Renneke CPT Jeremy M. Weeks Karen Blomberg CPT Andrew J. Ware Modifications office, is inducted into the CW4 Shawn D. Linnean CW4 Michael A. Gazda Lori Wilsher LTC Michael S. Johnson CPT Russell D. Woody Bronze Honorable Order of St. Michael by SSG Aldreaka Battle Ashley Konesko SSG Curtis J. Phelps Mark D. Smith MSG Nicholas Nyberg Allie Minsinger chapter president, Gary Nenninger, at the SFC Dustin A. Esewein Bruce D. Benson MAJ Christopher Malone Tennessee Valley Chapter AAAA Mission SFC Lamont Womack CW5 Larry R. Kulsrud, Ret. CSM Victor Fernandez II Amy Outlaw SFC Chad A. Tieben SFC Matthew W. Gagnon CSM Todd W. Sims Brooke Lewis Area Awards on June 13, 2019. His blend of CPT Aaron W. Amacker MSG Billy J. Hardwick BG John W. Brennan Jr. Daneisha Wilson accomplishments over 21 years in the Army CPT Michael Bramel 1SG David L. George CPT Jae J. Kim Krista Waddell before his retirement, along with his 11-year CPT James R. Duffy, Jr. MAJ David Cook CW3 Derrick L. Doyle Laura Black career supporting the UH-60 Black Hawk CPT Charles B. Hale MAJ James Seale Chong Man Lee Sarah Malo office are not only impressive but will have a CPT Richard D. Kubu 1SG Anthony Mintz MAJ C. Haywood McMillian Whitney Saari CPT Peter B. Todsen MSG James S. Lange BG Olliver Kingsbury Tiffany Bergemann lasting and overwhelmingly positive impact on Army Aviation.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 55 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT
AAAA Family Forum By Judy Konitzer Past President BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt and Janis Arena introduced me to Gabriela during the AAAA Functional Awards Ceremony held at Fort Rucker on January 30, 2019. We were impressed by her positivity and appreciation of being a military spouse, and I invited her to share her thoughts with our readers. The Military Does Take Care of Us! By Gabriela Lopez, With Edits by Judy Konitzer
y husband, Chris, and I met in 2001 while M attending Oxnard college in California. He had transitioned from active duty to California National Guard.
When he finished college, he announced at war, but he volunteered, and I was he was returning to active duty and in going to support his choice. I felt secure the next breath asked me to marry him. knowing that every two weeks we had I came from Mexico as a teenager a paycheck. I felt safe living in a house and became naturalized. I had a daugh- provided by the military on base. I felt ter and worked paycheck to paycheck reassured knowing that if my children all thru college, just wanting to make were sick, they would be taken care of.
a better life for us. Chris convinced me I felt relieved that organizations were AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ that the military would take care of us, actively helping with employment after Author Gabriela Lopez with her spouse, CPT although I had no idea what that meant. relocating. Having never been exposed Laurencio C. Lopez, 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Our first duty station was Fort Drum. to the military before this, I explained Regiment, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, who I had never been out of California, and these benefits did not exist in the ci- received the 2018 Army Aviation Medicine Award the only thing I knew was that my vilian world. To think she was a single sponsored by Gentex Corporation during the AAAA Functional Awards dinner on January 30, mother told us that when we married, parent with her spouse risking his life 2019 at Ft. Rucker, AL. you follow your spouse wherever it may to provide ALL these benefits to us was take you. We arrived in April with Chris not only shameful, but disappointing to deploying in June. I worried about how her spouse’s sacrifice. degree, without a penny of student debt. I was going to find a job, get healthcare, Now nearly 14 years later, we have I completed college and certifications pay for the house, and get childcare all had four more duty stations and three including dental assistant and radiol- while being thousands of miles away more deployments. Our three children ogy technician, at no cost to me. Our from my family. Before deployment, the have grown knowing nothing but the daughter is in college using her dad’s unit held a marriage retreat. The chap- military as a way of life. It has been a GI bill and can concentrate on school lain spoke of marital/family issues and roller coaster of ups and downs, but we without worrying about work. Our son how to work through them, and I was have never worried about being able to has aspirations of going to West Point comforted knowing the military really provide for our family. We have met and serving as an Army officer. To say cared about its families. some great people and have seen some or think the military owes us is trou- After the unit deployed, I attended a great leadership and units that genu- bling knowing how much it has given. I family readiness group (FRG) meeting inely care for families. never felt like a single parent, and I am and was honestly disappointed when Since Fort Drum, I have engaged grateful for my life as a military spouse. one of the FRG leaders began dis- in other FRG events with mixed out- cussing dealing with issues while our comes. Some were good; some were Gabriela Lopez is a dental assistant and th spouses were deployed. She stated we not; but there was often an underlying spouse of CPT Laurencio C. Lopez, 2/17 st were basically single parents - the straw thought of what is owed to us as fami- CAV, 101 Combat Aviation Brigade. that broke the camel’s back, I could not lies. I have volunteered at local post The Lopez’es have 3 children and live in keep quiet. I told her our spouses vol- Red Cross organizations, because it is Clarksville, Tennessee. unteered to be in the Army, and a few one way I can pay forward what has Judy Konitzer is the family forum editor months prior to that day, the only thing been done for us. for ARMY AVIATION; questions and I knew about the Army was that it went Chris has been in the military for suggestions can be directed to her at judy@ to war. I didn’t want my husband to be more than 20 years. He has a master’s quad-a.org.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 56 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA Thank You to Our Scholarship Fund Donors
AAAA recognizes the generosity of the following individuals, chapters and organizations that have donated to the Scholarship Foundation from January through June, 2019. The list includes donations received for all scholarships, as well as the General Fund which provides funding to enable the chapter, corporate, heritage and individual matching fund programs as well as national grants and loans. Donors marked with an * are partially or totally donating to the Families of the Fallen Scholarship. Every penny donated to the Scholarship Foundation goes directly to a grant or loan as a result of the Army Aviation Association of America subsidizing ALL administrative costs!
AAAA Badger Chapter Gary N. & Christine A. Nesta AAAA Northern Lights Chapter AAAA-Speaker Donation 2019 Summit Greater Giving Pamet W. Brown AAAA Air Assault Chapter AAAA Idaho Snake River Chapter Patriot Taxiway Industries, Inc Airbus Helicopters, Inc. Ingrid K Bruce Paul McCarthy AAAA Aloha Chapter Ironmountain Solutions, Inc Peduzzi Associates LTD Alyssa Perry Jack A. James AAAA Phantom Corps Chapter Amazon Smile AAAA Jack H. Dibrell Alamo Chapter Phantom Products Inc. Ameripack JACS Aircraft Certification Specialist Piasecki Foundation Amy Anderson James E. Rogers Reba A. Rogers QuantiTech, Inc. AAAA Arizona Chapter James Emerson Raymond Milora AAAA Aviation Center Chapter Jason Benedict Raquel E. & Terry R. Horner Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union Jeff Becker Robert Seigle Army Aviation Publications, Inc. Jerry P. Mellick Robertson Fuel Systems BAE System Jodi Lynch Roy Sullivan Becker’s Air Powered Sweeping, Inc. John Maez Rudolph & Pamela N. Ostovich III Bell John D. & Kathleen B. LaMotta S D Mundt & B J Mundt BG (Ret.) James M. & Joyce L. Hesson John S. Bolton, Linda S. Bolton Safran El. & Def., Avionics USA Boeing Johnson& Johnson Safran Helicopter Engines Boeing YourCause LLC Jolanda Masters Safran USA Virginia Booz Allen Hamilton Jon C Eidem Scott Kubica Bradley S Boyer Alexandria H Boyer Joy Skantz Sharon Kleiber Brig Gen Harry H. Bendorf Judith H. Janowiak Shashy Family Charitable Fund Canebrake Club, LLC Judy French Shelley Yarborough Cari Kreisel Karissa Poe Sidney W Achee Charleen Kennedy K-Con, Inc. AAAA Southern California Chapter Charles David Bayless Kelly F Carberry Steven M Soucek & Chandra L Soucek Charles E. Wright Jessica L. Wright AAAA Keystone Chapter Strata-G Solutions, Inc. Christie Reyenga Khalifa Almeghairi System Studies & Simulation, Inc. Colonel (RET) Harry Townsend, Diana L Larry D. & Julianne S. Holcomb T Konitzer & TJK Konsulting Inc. Townsend Laura Arena Tactical & Survival Specialties, Inc. AAAA Colonial Virginia Chapter Laura Steele Tee It Up for the Troops, Inc. Community Health Charities Lawrence P. Peduzzi AAAA Tennessee Valley Chapter Concept Components Leslie H Gilbert The Luminescence Foundation, Inc. Constance Hansen Lewis McConnell The OV-1 Mohawk Association AAAA Cowboy Chapter AAAA Lindbergh Chapter Thomas F. McNamara Cynthia S. Campbell LTC (Ret.) Jerry O. & Vivian A. Obert AAAA Thunder Mountain Chapter D.R. Haag, D.E. Haag LTG William Phillips, Ret Marilyn H. Phillips AAAA Thunderbird Chapter Dan Brown AAAA MacArthur Chapter Tier 4 LLC Daniel T Madish, Elisabeth Madish Marc Rassler Timothy Wooldridge David Blackburn Marlene Raczkowski Vantage West Credit Union David John Stock II Jennifer Lynn Stock Masaki Sudo Veteran Guardian Davis Aircraft Products Co., Inc. Matthew J. Sheedy VHPA Scholarship Fund Debra Harlow-Aldecoa MG (Ret.) Andy & Artie Andreson Victoria Bendure AAAA Delaware Chapter Michael Younce Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association Donald Munsch Michele Lynn Broshear AAAA Voodoo Chapter Dustoff Association Mimi F. Boulden AAAA Washington Potomac Chapter Edward Lewis Landry & Kimberly A Jamison AAAA Minuteman Chapter William Hipple EJ. Sinclair & Susan Sinclair AAAA Mount Rainier Chapter William Newby Ellen Luz Ramil & Manuel B Ramil Munsch & Co. Aeromechanics William Phillips Emily M Miller N. L. Amato William S. & Sara S. Johnson Evelyn A. Soucek Trust Network for Good AAAA Wright Bros. Chapter AAAA Flint Hills Chapter AAAA North Star Chapter Your Cause LLC Gail Vergez AAAA North Texas Chapter
For more information about the Foundation or to make a contribution, go online to www.quad-a.org; contributions can also be mailed to AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Inc., 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 57 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT People On The Move Aviation General Officer Yeager Makes History as First Female FY 2019 Colonel Promotions/Assignments Infantry Division Commander Army Competitive Todd Promoted to 2 Stars Category Selection Board Results The fiscal year 2018 colonel army competitive category selection board results were released May 21, 2019. AAAA congratulates the following 24 Aviation/Acquisition lieutenant colonels on their selection. U.S. ARMY PHOTO SFC BENJAMIN COSSEL U.S. On June 29, MG Laura Yeager, was promoted to her Seq # current rank and took command of the 40th Infantry 0116 Arriaga, Thomas Jason + PHOTO FROM PEO AVN FACEBOOK PAGE FACEBOOK AVN PHOTO FROM PEO Division, at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos 0002 Buss, Darren W. * MG Thomas H. Todd III takes the oath of office during 0013 Cook, Jason Thomas + Airfield, Los Alamitos during a ceremony hosted by his promotion ceremony on June 6, 2019 in front of 0001 Didier, Hannon A. * California Adjutant General MG David S. Baldwin, the PEO Aviation headquarters, Redstone Arsenal, 0051 Duus, Andrew John * Yeager is the first woman in history to lead a U.S. Army AL. BG (Ret.) Edward M. Harrington administered 0071 Hay, Marcus C. * infantry division. A Senior Army Aviator, she flew Black the oath, with Todd’s wife, Tracy, by his side. 0036 Herman, Joseph M. * Hawk helicopters on a combat deployment to Iraq in 0009 Hogan, Kyle Martin * Mangum Selected For DACOWITS 2011 and commanded the California National Guard’s 0064 Holcombe, Robert J. + LTG (Ret.) Kevin W. Mangum 40th Combat Aviation Brigade. 0072 James, Jeremy Wayne * 0127 Kirk, Christopher J. + was selected on June 11, 2019 0152 Lamb, Phillip Hayes * as one of five new members Changes of Command/ Responsibility 0016 Mannion, Michael J. * to the Defense Advisory 0033 Martin, Elizabeth A. + Committee on Women in the Cutchin Takes Command of TF Warhawk 0141 Miller, Jacob W. * Services. DACOWITS provides COL Harvey A. Cutchin, 244th 0168 Mykins, Jennifer A. + the secretary of defense with Combat Aviation Brigade 0123 Rowland, Matthew L. * advice and recommendations commanding officer, out of Joint 0158 Ruisanchez, Joshua + 0060 Schuck, Gerald P. + AAPI PHOTO BY RENE BIDEZ on matters and policies Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, relating to the recruitment, retention, employment, assumed command of Task 0061 Shaffner, Jonathan * integration, well-being and treatment of women in Force Warhawk, in a ceremony 0079 Surrey, Nathan S. + 0076 Tucker, Richard P. the armed forces. The committee is comprised of at the Camp Taji Airfield, in 0032 Von Hagel, Daryl S. * up to 20 members, who include military retirees, support of Operation Inherent 0044 West, Jason L* veterans, civilian women and men from academia, ARMY PHOTO BY CPT FERNANDO OCHOA U.S. Resolve, May 1, 2019. The industry, public service and other professions. 244th CAB has deployed to Iraq to support OIR, which * Below the zone selection Selection is based on military experience or with is the operational name for the military intervention * = AAAA Member women-related workforce issues. against the Islamic State of Iraq. + = Life Member
ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING (AIT) GRADUATIONS AAAA congratulates the following PV2 Mark Gathogo Muturi Class 011-19 PV2 Gevanei Donovan Malcolm PV2Bianca Danielle Yanez Army graduates of the indicated PV2 Chase Scott Prince SPC Casey Sean Hietala-DG PV2 Zachary Dewitte Mangrum Class 524-19 Advanced Individual Training (AIT) PV2 Michael Jose Rivera SPC Zachary Ryan Brooks PV2 Eitan Nathaniel M.Comacho PV2 Nickolas J. Siciliano-DG courses at the 128th Aviation PV2 Terrell Chase Wadsworth SPC Shawn Thomas Calchera PFC Ryan Christian Paradise PV2 Adam Michael Gonzales Brigade, Joint Base Langley- PV2 Noah Alexzander Whitlow PV2 Darrell Blaine Esteppe Jr. PV2 Brian Eugene Peevy PV2 Austin Morgan Hatch Eustis, VA and the U.S. Army PV2 Barrington L. Williams SGT Mouncef Ettayeb PFC Luis Ernesto Perez PV2 Gavin Anthony Lopez Aviation Center of Excellence, Ft. Class 010-19 PFC Jordan Isaiah Maize Griggs PV2 Gerardo Pimentel PV2 Cristian B. Lopez Cornejo Rucker, AL. PV2William Loyd Dunnam II-DG PV2Jacob Ingual Hanson Jr. Class 012-19 PV2 John Henry Merritt Jr. PV2 Ryan James Adams SPC Jacob Matthew Hull PV2 Stephen J.Drake Jr. - DG PV2 Christopher R.Piñeiro AH-64 Attack Helicopter PV2 Sergio Adrian Armendariz SSG Justin Joseph Humphrey PV2 Kyler Michel Applebee PFC Gepaul Saldivar Repairer (15R) PV2 Cameron Noah Bergin SPC Hunter Michael Irby PV2 Omari Malique Bell PV2 Kelton Wade Shriver Class 009-19 PV2 Derek Rashad Covington PV2Jason Edward Keefover PFC Soulisa Tai Bountathip PFC Anthony Bruce Skubic Jr. PFC Johnny Silva-DG PV2 Christopher Diaz PFC Javier David Soria PV2 Steven Mauricio Cabrera PV2 Isaac Anthony Roy Weller PV2 Dhanvi Achanta PV2Ryan Alexander Esqueda Class 523-19 PV2 Christian Eugene Campbell PV2 Payne Stewart Harris SPC Dustin Friedrich PFC Brooke Lynn Weaver-DG PV2 Jong Ho Choi UH-60 Helicopter Repairer PFC Nichols Javier Labastida SPC Michael Patrick Keavey SPC Nora Jane Malate Grover PV2 Joshua McCabe Cole (15T) PV2 Hagan Gibbon Mcintosh SGT Arun Kumar Srivastava PV2 Devon Fredrich Lurch PV2 Jackson Nicholas Despas Class 025-19 PV2 Luis Felipe Jesus Medrano CPL Kranti Prasad Thyadi PV2 Spencer Thomas Madison SPC William Kenneth Miller PV2 Tyler Grant Absher
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 58 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA People On The Move Flight School Graduates AAAA provides standard aviator wings to all graduates and sterling silver aviator wings to the distiguished graduates of each flight class ... another example of AAAA’s SUPPORT for the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family.
AAAA congratulates the fol- WO1 Hancock, Justin A. lowing officers graduating from WO1 Harris, Diantha R. Flight School XXI at the U.S. WO1 Hawkins, Dylan C. Army Aviation Center of Excel- WO1 McEvers, Brantley A. lence, Fort Rucker, AL. WO1 Mertens, Joshua M. WO1 Montiel Brito, Miguel A. 58 Officers, May 23 WO1 Neidner, Robert C. * Commissioned Officers WO1 Prais, Joseph K. 1LT Territo, Dominick G. – DG WO1 Ramirez, Eduardo 1LT Sinopoli, Nickolas J. – HG WO1 Rodriguez, Jorge A. 1LT Solo, Scott N. – HG WO1 Sharpe, Joshua A. 2LT Stoesser, Dominic R. – HG WO1 Taran, Constantin V. 2LT Acevedo, Jean C. WO1 Ungles, Corey D. 2LT Burgess, Braden T. WO1 Vaughn, Justin D. 1LT Bybee, Tyler M. WO1 Watson, Travis D. CPT Diaz, Dana C. WO1 Wiederspan, Michael S. 2LT Elliott, Kyle M. WO1 Winn, Clayton T. 2LT Kendrick, Austin R. WO1 Yogore, Morgun C. 2LT Mattos, April M. IERW May 23 1LT Milani, Andrew N. * 42 Officers, June 6 1LT Mitchell, Zachary T. Commissioned Officers 1LT Nguyen, Jonathan D. 2LT Oveson, Lars P. – DG CPT Phan, Vinh Q. 2LT Brewer, Coburn G. – HG 2LT Phillips, Abby V. 2LT Scales, Austin R. * – HG 1LT Sleek, Ashley B. 1LT Schroeder, Zachary T. – HG 1LT Thrasher, Donald J. 2LT Cabe, Anthony C. 2LT Wortham, Maurissa N. CPT Crum, Dustin R. 2LT Zacharias, Roy J. 2LT Dente, Mark A. Warrant Officers 1LT Ezdebski, Paul H. WO1 Crockett, Samuel R. – DG 1LT Holcomb, Leighann B. WO1 Maroon, Douglas M. – HG 2LT Jackson Haney, Jonathan R. WO1 Plummer, David L. – HG CPT Parish, Matthew R. WO1 Williams, Jason A. – HG 2LT Peace, Korbahn C. WO1 Wright, Dustin K. – HG 2LT Porter, Meredith L. WO1 Adams, Brandon M. * 2LT Roach, Christopher A. WO1 Adams, Daniel J. 2LT Rompel, Austin D. WO1 Aegerter, Jacob J. 1LT Roudbari, Rebecca S. WO1 Anderson, Brandon T. 2LT Schmersahl, Alexander J. WO1 Anderson, Daniel J. 2LT Shuey, Michael D. IERW June 6 WO1 Bobroff, Nathaniel B. 1LT Yoo, Michael A. WO1 Brown, Timothy D. Warrant Officers WO1 Coleman, John M. WO1 Krustchinsky, Jacob A. * – DG WO1 Brandon, Matthew C. WO1 Giger, Kimberly R. WO1 Moye-Linehan, Lewis P. WO1 Creed, Daniel T. WO1 Gross, Michael C. – HG WO1 Carda, Christian D. WO1 Goetze, Damon M. WO1 Taylor, Eric M. WO1 Dean, Austin M. WO1 Guest, Christopher M. – HG WO1 Clark, Brody WO1 Jordan, Matthew F. WO1 Emge, Matthew J. * WO1 Kraus, Andrew J. – HG WO1 Clark, Phillip A. WO1 Krynauw, Cheyenne F. WO1 Galloway, Kyle W. * WO1 Swain, Bryce K. – HG WO1 Delgado, Emanuel A. WO1 Leake, Gerald C. Iii DG: Distinguished Graduate WO1 Gomez, Diego M. WO1 Baird, Jackson E. WO1 Dittrich, Tanner S. WO1 McFann, James P. HG: Honor Graduate WO1 Hamilton, Patrick K. * WO1 Behnke, Benjamin J. WO1 Garcia, Jorge L. WO1 Michalsen, Bjorn H. * = AAAA Member
ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING (AIT) GRADUATIONS
PV2 Cody Allen Bentley PVT Tyler Wayne Bond PV2 Rivera Andres Ferrer SPC Martin Mekina PV2 Michael Dewayne Watkins PV2 Gabriel Ray Bettencourt SPC Billy Daniel Grayless PV2 Benjamin Lee Hymel PV2 Wiridalis Perezortiz SPC Justin Taylor Webber PFC Raymond M. Bodtmann PFC William Wyatt Hutter PV2 Jacob Charles Manzanares SPC Sarah Jo Ward PV2 Duane Andrew Wilbur, Jr PV2 Julian Peter Bonaguro PVT Zackary Brian Mott PV2 Steven Michael McCain PV2 Jackson Mathew Willem Class 524-19 SGT Troy Dean Chambers PFC Roman I.Petrashishin PV2 Soto Luis Ortiz Class 028-19 PV2 Jason Allan Sharik - DG PV2 Cody Albert Cloteaux PV2 Joseph Ernest Rastelli PV2 Johnathan Tyler Sanders PFC Alexander J.Garcia - DG PV2 Devin Isaiah Buckhannon PV2 Justin Michael Cook PFC Kyle Matthew Thompson Class 027-19 PV2 Christopher Lee A.Baird PV2 Carter M.Hildebrandt SPC James John Dzurica PV2 Journey Rock J.Wright PV2 Nicholas Michael Self - DG PV2 Liam Tobias Belhumeur SPC Daehyeok Kweon SPC Juan Carlos Gaytan SPC Daniel Patrick Wycklendt SPC Carter Acton PV2 Matthew Dylan Bramble PFC Nicholas Athonio Nance PFC Branden Thomas Miller PFC Wameng Yang PFC Petaann Ramona Campbell PV2 Ethan Makenzie Crawford PV2 Yohan David Paduacintron SPC Oscar Javier Rios, Jr Class 523-19 SPC Thomas David Geary PFC Jax Anastasi Currington PV2 Brandon Lee Parrish Class 026-19 PFC Loen Scott Langley - DG PFC Tristan Ernest Gurry PFC Brody Charles Feind PV2 Devin Ray Phillips SPC Adam Shaffer Taylor -DG PV2 Dorian David D.Enequist PV2 Morgan Elizabeth Leal PV2 Brandon Edward Fleming SPC Jared Ott Pope PV2 Malsawmtluanga J.Bawitlung PV2 Austin Michael Ewing SPC Jessica Ann Lynch PV2 Tyler Mackenzie Herndon Continued on page 60
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 59 July 31, 2019 AAAAu NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT People On The Move AIT GRADUATIONS continued PV2 William Bryce Sanders PV2 Dominic Joseph Luciani Class 506-19 PFC Dwight Ricardo Spence PV2 Caleb Galen Boucher PV2 Alexander David Snyder PV2 Cameron Anthony Tralle PV2 Alex Theron West-DG PV2 Dalton Leon Watson PV2 Nickolaus Wyatt Chvojka PV2 Jahsiah Kaleokamalani PV2 Joshua Danyael Valentin PV2 Matthew Charles Agan PV2 Jacob Ryan Wilson PV2 Michael W. Crawford Jr. Arthur Vasquez PV2 Charles Wallace Wood, Jr PV2 Carlos Moreno PV2 Alexzander Jay Everlen Class 029-19 Class 034-19 SPC Shelby Ray Ogorman Aircraft Electrician (15F) PV2 Christopher A. Gonzalez PV2 Nathan T. Weinel - DG SPC Matthew R.Coyner - DG PV2 Luis F. Ordonez-Salvatierra Class 005-19 PFC Karson Gonzales PV2 Kathleen Phyllis Doane PFC Diego Eduardo Alcantara PV2 Braydon McCall Postma PV2 Russell Espinal-Cardenas SPC Tarvaris Grant PV2 Jordan Reece Hooper PFC Justin Gabriel Deluna PV2 Diego Rodriguez PFC Victor Gracia SPC Kathryn Ann Peeples PV2 Jessica Marie Long PFC Tyler Shea Hayes PV2 Zachery Allen Rogers PFC Bernard Clinton Leblanc PV2 Christopher Adrian Smith PFC Justin Lee Massie PV2 Dylan Scott Leach PV2 Michael Jay Rosso PV2 Jared Samuel Meyers Class 002-19 SPC Reco Emmanuel Moody SPC William James Liles PV2 Corey Randolph Settle PV2 Quinton Troy Surfus PFC Cyle Justin P. Paulino-DG PV2 Jahbari Dayne Moses SPC Joao Carlos Limao PFC Justin David Simons PFC Kyle Aaron Woods PV2 Cameron Scott Elliott PV2 Carlos Miguel Silva-Ortiz SPC Jonathan Patrick McClain PV2 Love Andre Taylor PV2 Chris Gonzalez PFC Callie Estelle Stevens SGT Benito Muniz-Velez Aircraft Structural Repairer PV2 Ethan James Hook PV2 Brayner Valencia SPC Steven Douglas Parker Aircraft Powerplant (15G) PV2 Nicholas Taylor Martin SPC Joshua Velazquez PV2 Conner Allyn Woodford Repairer (15B) Class 004-19 PV2 Shawn Michael McCraith Class 030-19 SGT Alexander Douglas Zwicky Class 004-19 PV2 Ryan Charles Bailey - DG PV2 Tyler Nicholas McDade PFC Timothy D. Dawson - DG PV2 Justin Tyler Adwell - DG PV2 Thomas Edward Finley PFC Mateo Brendon McDonald SPC Jack William Anderson CH-47 Medium Helicopter PV2 Johnathan Michael Beris PV2 Cecil Edward Hardin PV2 James Thomas Mettlach PVT Jermaine Monte Blocker Repairer (15U) PV2 Ilisha Ishmael Bottomley SPC Andrew Lorin Hubbard PV2 James Stanton Miller PV2 Gregory Paul Brame Class 008-19 PV2 Jeremy Chase Bradley PV2 Lane Michael Kurtz PV2 Derek Jonathan Olsen PVT Torin Matte Bryant PV2 Nicolas J.Costonzo - DG PV2 Jonathan M. Castrechino PV2 Cody Allen Roote PV2 Rashad Jamal Queen SPC Jackson Niles Caldwell PV2 Tyler Austin Avila PV2 Daijon Marquez Cooper PV2 Jordan Michael Sevin Class 501-19 PV2 Ian Patrick Callahan PV2 Brendan Irving A. Barney PV2 Shon Michael Cox SPC Pramod Shakya SPC Patrick Thomas Boring PV2 Timothy Edward Carter PV2 Andrew Carson Carlisle PV2 Dakota William Crump SGT Benjamin Dale Spencer PV2 Jarred Blake Cotton PFC Isaiah Daniel Cook PFC Kayn Kevin Forsyth PV2 Pauloroberto Dasilva PV2 Landen James Yowell SPC Joshua Andrew Dyer SPC Ivan Diaz PV2 Cameron Michael Dovidio SPC Anthony C. Edwards SPC Joshua Lawrence Gibson PV2Clayton Warren Elliott PV2 Rigoberto G.Gonzalez PV2 Mishael Josiah Esper Aircraft Pnedraulics PV2 Robert Andrew Goad Class 525-19 PV2 Erick Guevara PV2 Ernesto Garcia Repairer (15H) PV2 Douglas Paul Koosman PFC Andres J.Gonzalez - DG PV2 Mendez A.Hernandez PV2 Robert Daniel Krim Class 005-19 PV2 Jaime L. Velazquez Jr. PV2 Taylor Michael Fowler PV2 Devan Alexander Jeffries PV2 Joshua Elias Lopez-Sigala PV2 Nathaniel Michael-Cole PV2 David John L.Shackelford PV2 Nicholas Sean Fox PV2 Nicholas Ryan Jordan PV2 Kaleb Malachi Meadows Asiatico – DG SPC Cameron Avery Stanko PV2 Alfred Ronald Fraser, III SPC Garcia Josue Lemus PV2 Daniel Adam Shreeve Jr. PV2 Gashian D.D.Cotton PFC Ethan Jarett White PV2 Bryan Joel Gradney Class 511-19 Class 502-19 PV2 Breonna Faith Hill PV2 Cody Harmon PV2 Justin Carl Metheny - DG PFC Ji Hoon Song SPC William Joseph Luketich DG: Distinguished Graduate PV2 Anthony Sage Harper PV2 Cory Joseph McElfresh PV2 David Spencer Tribble PV2 Christopher J.Washington HG: Honor Graduate PFC Jacob Michael Manaska PV2 Sydney Marie McMahan PV2 Curtis James Williams * = AAAA Member PV2 Lewis W. Manning, Jr SGT Maximilian Molina Class 005-19 Avionic Repairer (15N) SPC Michael A. Quirindongo SPC Connor Patrick Oneil PV2 Stewart A. Ludwig - DG Class 001-19 UNMANNED PFC Wycliff Kemal Rumble PV2 William Michael Sattizahn PV2 Bryant Bernal PV2 Shamarah R.Tezeno - DG Class 031-19 PV2 Paul Joseph Scherling PV2 Thomas Dwayne Bradley PV2 Lane Valentine Bartz AIRCRAFT PFC Robert M. Dodson - DG PV2 Tristan Calvin Siegers SPC Michael David Burns PFC Landon Scott Carter SYSTEMS (UAS) SGM Faiz B. H. Al Balawi PV2 William Francis Smith PV2 Michael Monoru Cloward PV2 Adam Lee Gonzalez GRADUATIONS SGT Moayad Omar H. Alluhaybi PFC Phillip Michael Voluntad PV2 Bryson Trevon Davis PV2 Hailey Marie Hearn SSG Mohammed O. Al Osaimi PV2 Camron L.Weatherbee SPC Andrew Stephen Gordon Fitzritson Eglon Ingram Jr. UAS REPAIRER SFC Sultan H. K. Al Wathnani PV2 James Michael Welch PV2 Marshall Tylor Gwyn PFC Thalia Mercedez Windley AAAA congratulates the fol- SFC Abdulaziz J. M. Al Zahrani Class 010-19 PFC Evrard Kevin Loue PV2 Stephanie Marie Wright lowing Army graduates of the SPC Joshua Drake SFC David J. Danielson - DG PV2 Lorenzo Antonio Martinez Class 002-19 Unmanned Aircraft Systems SPC Tyler James Flath PV2 Joshua Monroe Blanchard SGT Amber Rai Moffett SPC Arron Donovan Arnold Repairer Course, MOS 15E, at SPC Dante Jeome Horne PV2 Matthew Jacob King PV2 Keegan Emerson Murphy SPC Dirk Lanakila Harber Fort Huachuca, AZ. SSG Guan-Yu Lin PV2 Trenten Jonathan Lewis PV2 Zachary Scott Yerkie PV2 Colton Montgomery Jones SPC Justin James Quiggle PV2 Bailey Paul Maynard SPC Christopher Wayne Moore Shadow UAS Repairer SPC Duncan Lanier Watts PV2 Anthony R. McCormick Aircraft Powertrain PV2 Joseph Stanley Moore Course Class 032-19 PV2 Leslie McCoy Pitts Repairer (15D) SPC Gary Nathan Salsgiver 10 Graduates, 09 May 2019 PV2 Joshua Barajas - DG SGT Jared Keil Quigley Class 003-19 SPC Iguere Serge Togo CPL Christian PerezCabral - DHG PV2 Cody Zacshary Ackerman PV2 Nickolas W. Rasmussen PV2 Mckay Aaron Pelsue - DG SGT Christopher David Ventre SPC Connor P. Keegan - HG PV2 Cristian Ricardo Anoceto SPC Victor Shawn Shotts, Jr PV2 Dusty Leroy Clark Class 501-19 SGT Kevin Aviles PV2 Kyle Christopher Couly PFC Derek Scott Wilke PV2 Adam Tyler Devoe PFC Marqies N.Burnett – DG SGT Garrett R. Keiper PV2 Zachary Alan Eversman PV2 Daniel Weatherbee PV2 Bryan Anthony Guy PV2 Cameron Jerome Lagace PFC Osbaldo Robles PV2 Joshua David Eyeington Class 011-19 PV2 Tyronn Jamel Jackson PV2 Cameron D.Mathewson PV2 Devin C. Brown PV2 Jason Michael McGurl PV2 Brent Isaac Ballard - DG PV2 Nicolas Hunter Lowery PV2 Elbert Scott Self PV2 Stephen A. Reed PV2 Jahbari Dayne Moses PFC Rachel Nadine Benson PV2 William Russell Mansfield PV2 Andrew James Smith PV2 Frank E. Wood PV2 George Stephen Roosen SPC Brandon Phillip Carpenter SPC Michael Kayle McCallum PV2 Joshua Hayden Templeton PVT Jacob S. Newhart PV2 Zachary Allen Santos PFC Mercado Christian Cruz PV2 Joshua M.McCandless PV2 Aaron Joseph Weaver PVT Edward J. Wilkins Jr. PV2 Corbin Scott Smith SPC Jared Christopher Fossek SPC Bryan James McDowell PV2 Charles Collin Willingham Class 033-19 PV2 Rodriguez Victor Galvez PV2 Dalton James Pelham DHG = Distinguished Honor PV2 Ranger O. Collard - DG PV2 Charles Cody Johnson PV2 Nicolas Alexander Ramirez AH-64 Armament/ Graduate PV2 Trenton Allen Bates PFC Spencer Jones SSG Jason Robert Reynolds Electrical/Avionic Systems HG = Honor Graduate SGT Christopher J. Duplantis* PV2 Erik Daniel Meehan Class 503-19 Repairer (15Y) PV2 Jeffrey Tyler G. Ebert PV2 Phillip Robert Meridith PV2 Charles T.Tompkins - DG Class 001-19 PFC Ricky Henderson PV2 Davied Allen Montgomery PV2 Buster Mitchell Dreksler PV2 Raymond D.Coones-DG SPC Nathaniel Paul Jackson PV2 Nicole Thomas Nate PV2 Cameron Adonis Shaw PV2 Jesus Jhoel A.Calderon
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 60 July 31, 2019 u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT uAAAA Industry News Announcements Related to Army Aviation Matters
Editor’s note: Companies can send their Contracts – (From various sources. Army Aviation related news releases and An “*” by a company name indicates a small information to [email protected]. business contract) Upcoming Special Focus Improved Turbine Engine Development Resumes DynCorp International LLC, Fort Worth, TX, 2018 Blue Book Issue August/ was awarded a $129,666,053 modification NETWORK l RECOGNITION l VOICE l SUPPORT August/September 2018 September to contract W58RGZ-17-C-0011 for logistics 2019 support services; work will be performed in Blue Book Fort Worth, with an estimated completion Scholarship Winners date of May 31, 2020. International Enterprises Inc., Talladega, AL, was awarded a $24,500,000 firm- U.S. ARMY U.S. PHOTO fixed-price contract for depot level repair October 2019 NETWORK l RECOGNITION l VOICE l SUPPORT October 31, 2018 For 100 days, the Improved Turbine Engine of the Aviator Night Vision Heads-Up Program (ITEP) was in a holding pattern while Display family of repairable assemblies and Aviation Survivability awaiting the conclusion of an official protest subassemblies; work locations and funding Aviation Support by The Advanced Turbine Engine Company will be determined with each order, with an Aviation Soldier Support (ATEC) against the ITEP Engineering and estimated completion date of May 30, 2029. Aviation Sustainment Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract award to General Electric Aviation. The wait Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Sierra Contact: ended on May 30, with the contract award Vista, AZ, was awarded a $163,588,331 to GE Aviation for their T901 turbine engine cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Hunter Bob Lachowski or unmanned aircraft system fleet support Erika Burgess upheld as the Army’s Improved Turbine [email protected] Engine, a state-of-the-art 3,000 shaft for operations, maintenance, engineering, re-engineering and remanufacturing; work 203. 268.2450 horsepower class turbine engine. With work ARMYAVIATIONmagazine.com now able to continue, the next step for ITEP will be performed in Sierra Vista, with an in EMD will be reaching the Critical Design estimated completion date of May 9, 2020. Review in FY20 followed by the First Engine Rockwell Collins Inc., Cedar Rapids, IA, to Test build completion in FY21. was awarded a $49,114,577 firm-fixed- Advertisers Index price contract for maintenance and overhaul Lockheed Martin Flies of the display unit for the UH-60 Black Hawk ALKAN...... 26 Unmanned Tech for First helicopter; work locations and funding will Time be determined with each order, with an Army Aviation Museum Foundation...... 29 estimated completion date of June 3, 2024. Arnold Defense...... 19 S.B. Ballard Construction Co., Virginia CAE Inc...... 1 Beach, VA, was awarded a $40,457,981 Coastal Seat Cushions, Inc...... 16 firm-fixed-price contract for construction David Clark Company...... 27 of an aviation maintenance training facility; work will be performed in Newport News, VA, DynCorp International...... 21
SIKORSKY COURTESY PHOTO SIKORSKY COURTESY with an estimated completion date of Nov. Esterline Avionics Systems...... 11 4, 2021. Lockheed Martin announced on June 6 it Flight Safety International...... 9 has flown its Optionally Piloted Vehicle (OPV) The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, PA, was Garmin International Inc...... 2 technology aboard a Sikorsky UH-60A Black awarded a $10,115,993 modification to Hawk testbed helicopter for the first time. The contract W58RGZ-17-C-0059 to support Inter-Coastal Electronics, Inc...... 13 flight, which took place at Sikorsky’s West CH-47F Block II Engineering and Manufac- L-3 Wescam Communications...... 7 Palm Beach facility in Florida on May 29th, turing Development program; work will be Meggitt Defense Systems...... 23 marked the official start of the flight trials performed in Ridley Park, with an estimated program for the OPV technology following completion date of July 27, 2021. Northrop Grumman Corporation...... 64 an earlier test aboard a S-76B Sikorsky Phantom Products, Inc...... 17 Autonomy Research Aircraft (SARA) testbed The Boeing Co., St. Louis, MO, was awarded helicopter. Lockheed said this was the first an $18,943,540 firm-fixed-price contract to Science and Engineering Services, SES, Inc..15 full authority fly-by-wire retrofit kit developed implement, integrate, test, upgrade and field SKEDCO, Inc...... 41 by Sikorsky that has completely removed to the Longbow Crew Trainer Generation 4 TRU Simulation & Training...... 5 mechanical flight controls from the aircraft. and Generation 5; work will be performed in The UH-60A will continue flight-envelope St. Louis, with an estimated completion date Viasat...... 25 expansion trials to the third quarter of 2019. of April 1, 2022.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 61 July 31, 2019 Art’s Attic By Mark Albertson
Art’s Attic is a look back each issue at 25 and 50 years ago to see what was going on in ARMY AVIATION Magazine. Contributing editor Mark Albertson has selected a few key items from each decade’s issues. Art Kesten is our founder and first publisher from 1953 to 1987. He is also the founder of the AAAA in 1957 and served as its Executive Vice President. The cartoon, right, was created back in 1953 by LT Joe Gayhart, a friend of Art’s and an Army Aviator, showing the chaos of his apartment-office in New York City where it all began. 25 Years Ago 50 Years Ago July 31,1994 July 31, 1969
Briefings One Millionth Hour Working under the U.S. Army/ Fort Wolters—WOC Richard E. NASA Advanced Rotorcraft Adams (left), Class 69-3581, and Transmission (ART) Program, CWO Larry R. Hanson, Flight McDonnell Douglas Helicopter B-2, accept congratulations for Systems and Lucas Western Gear logging the 1,000,000th hour of have designed a 5,000-horsepower flight time recorded for FY69; transmission for the Apache attack the highest total yet recorded helicopter. This latest design is al- in a single training year at the most twice as powerful as the present transmission, but, weighs USAPHS. Pictured at Dempsey Army heliport are (left nearly half as much as it would if it were designed using existing to right): Colonel John F. Roberts, Director of Training; technology. The technology is applicable to virtually any conven- Major Ronald C. Clarke, Flight Safety; Candidate Adams; tional rotorcraft. CWO Hanson; Captain Brent J.` Artley, B-2 Flight 160th In Norway Commander; Colonel Lloyd G. An MH-47D, from the 2nd Huggins, Center Commander; Battalion, 160th Special Op- and Lieutenant Colonel C.M. erations Aviation Regiment Crain, Director of Flight (Airborne), over a Nor- Department B. The new hour wegian fiord, March 1994. mark was established in an OH- 13 aircraft. Army Special Forces and the Navy An MH-47 on the flight deck of the Help Wanted: USS George Washington (CVN-73), Pilots with Chinook or Vertol 107 experience... Primarily during recent joint exercises with the for construction work throughout the United States, Navy and the 75th Ranger Regiment. including Alaska, Starting as co-pilots. Applicants should have 1,000 hours minimum. Pilot for Hiller 12-E or SL-4… Briefings Flying for Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. The Aviation Applied Technology Directorate of the U.S. Job entails mountain flying, sling loads, fire patrol and Army has selected Simula Inc., to develop an airbag system suppression, and personnel transportation. Applicant should for the cockpit on the UH-60 Black Hawk. The order, val- have at least 500 hours in the model and at least 1,000 hours ued at some $4 million, will see to the installation of airbags total helicopter time and be willing to travel. Send resume in the instrument panel in an effort to reduce crewmember to: ARMY AVIATION MAGAZINE, Attn: Box 9155, injuries in the event of crashes. Westport, Ct. 06880. West Point Grad From USAAF to Army Aviator The 1994 AAAA award for the Top West Lieutenant Colonel Samuel P. Kalagian Point Cadet who has branched Aviation graduated from the U.S. Army War College went to Cadet Spencer T. Kympton. MG in June of this year; this prior to assuming Richard E. Stephenson, (Ret.), AAAA the duties of Deputy Director of the Senior V.P., presents Cadet Kympton Department of Rotary Wing Training at with a Certificate of Appreciation. Pre- USAAVNS. LTC Kalagian, a World War II sentation was made at West Point, in the fighter pilot, transferred to the Army in August 1950. He was Thayer Room, May 24, 1994. rated a Master Army Aviator in 1963. ARMY AVIATION Magazine 62 July 31, 2019 Army Aviation Hall of Fame
Major The Army Aviation Hall Delbert L. Bristol of Fame, sponsored by the Army Aviation Army Aviation Hall of Fame 1976 Induction Association of America, (Inducted to represent the 1942-1949 period) Inc., recognizes those individuals who have made an outstanding contribution ajor (later Colonel) Delbert L. to Army Aviation. M Bristol served as an Army Liaison Pilot in the early test that established organic air observation in 1942. After serving briefly on the faculty of the Department of Air Training, Lieutenant Bristol left the continental U.S. with the first group of pilots The actual Hall of Fame and aircraft mechanics deployed overseas in October 1942. is located in the Army Aviation Museum, After his arrival in England, and during late 1942 while in North Africa, he was the driving force in the organization of a combat zone Fort Rucker, Ala. school that trained additional pilots and aircraft mechanics to meet the Artillery’s combat aviation needs until replacements from Fort Sill became available in sufficient numbers.
The deadline for While serving as the Artillery Air Officer for II Corps during the nominations for the Tunisian and Sicilian campaigns, Major Bristol directed and coordinated 2021 induction is the employment of the Air Observation Posts [Pilot and Field Artillery Observer teams in radio-equipped Piper L-4 Cubs] that later was June 1, 2020 acclaimed as one of the great innovations of World War II. Calling on his experience as First Army Artillery Air Officer in Northern Europe in 1944-45, he contributed in great measure to the success of the Air OP’s in combat. Contact the AAAA National Office for details In 1948-1949, while a Major on the Army General Staff in and nomination forms at Washington, D.C., his negotiations in the Army Staff and with the Air Force, sometimes against heavy odds, assured the foundation of the (203) 268-2450 or visit Army’s organic aviation following the unification of the services. www.quad-a.org
ARMY AVIATION Magazine 63 July 31, 2019 ARMY AVIATION Magazine 64 July 31, 2019