THE “Victory Starts Here”

Published in the interest of the 108th Training Command • Vol 36.4 Winter 2012 GREAT RATES 'PS
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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states or in all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. In New York a premium reduction may be available. Coverage is individual. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko Image © 1999-2012. © 2012 GEICO THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 3 From the Commanding General...

consequences of these events. The and what we are and our relevancy We have been laser focused on diffi culty of prediction exponen- to the future of the United States our Drill Sergeant production, our tially increases with the conclusion Army, especially in light of where biggest challenge in the past 24 of the Iraq War, Afghanistan ramp- the military is at this point histori- months. We have made a great deal ing down, the next four years for cally as we come to the end of an of progress on this especially in the a new or existing administration; era of being a nation at war with last three months and have begun what this Republic decides with terror over the last 11 years. to see an increase in our numbers. regard to the national debt, seques- We know that our core compe- There is still much left to do. We tration, the defense budget, foreign tency has been and will always be are shaping our force by looking policy and the unpredictability of training. We conduct Basic Com- at where we are over-strength as future events; in the Middle East, in bat Training (BCT), Leader Training well as where we need to bring in the small nation-states of Africom, (LT) and Foreign Military Training NCOs to fi ll vacant positions due to in places like North Korea, China (FMT). We build on this by ac- diffi cult to fi nd MOS’s. We contin- and other countries, both friendly knowledging our customers (TRA- ue to develop the force by work- and not so friendly. Department DOC and Cadet Command) our ing on educational requirements of Defense, the Armed Forces, and stakeholders (USARC, ATC’s, Sol- for both our midgrade offi cers and specifi cally the United States Army diers, their Families and the com- NCOs. We continue to improve and USAR are committed to main- munities that we impact and that readiness through vigilance in a tain the current state of readiness impact us), and our main partners number of metrics that we pay at- even as we commit ourselves to (the AC/RC Drill Sergeant School tention to; non-participants, medi- By Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall working through the constraints and Recruiting Command). From cal readiness, things as simple as on time OERs/ NCOERs, APFTs, weap- Commanding General of a shrinking national budget and there we have built or re-validated ons qualifi cation and other met- 108th Training Command (IET) limited resources. The 38th Chief our mission, vision, our values and rics. All these things are important. of the Army, Gen. Raymond Odier- priorities along with the metrics to Sometimes writing these articles These will continue to be impor- no as well as the Chief of the Army measure and trend to see if we are to talk about the future is like skeet tant as we take care of our Sol- on track. Sounds incredibly sim- shooting. One tries to fi re in front Reserve, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Talley are diers and their Families through a of the clay pigeon hoping that strategizing towards developing a ple, yes? However when you think culture that addresses our mission there is enough “Kentucky wind- smaller, leaner but more capable of the 108th being a nationwide but supports the Soldiers and their age” to have buck shot and disk col- and fl exible Army of the future, one Command of nearly 8,000 Soldiers, Family’s safety and well-being, both lide in the same space at the same that is trained, equipped and ready three Divisions, 10 Brigades, 60 on and off duty. time. A perfect sequence of events, for missions at home and abroad. Battalions, the number of missions We must stay ready, even as we making the shooter look either In light of this, the 108th Training and taskings that we receive as a come into a time of reduced re- good... or lucky… or both. Command has just gone through a command during the course of a sourcing. The future is a tricky In the time between my writ- process of re-focusing on itself; its training year, the ensuing span of thing. Our past Secretary of De- ing this and you reading the win- core competencies, stakeholders, control as well as communications fense, Robert Gates once said we ter edition of the Griffon, we will mission, vision, and values and how challenges, the Army Communities have a perfect record on predicting have had a Presidential election, it is organized structurally to con- of Excellence Program has been where and when the next war is. several conferences at TRADOC, tinually improve on what it does. great in focusing us on best prac- Our record is zero. FORSCOM and USARC levels, the We are one of the two fi nalists in tices to optimize our effectiveness As we enter into the winter sol- 108th Commander’s Conference the 2012 Army Communities of Ex- as a Training Command. We have stice, Nanc and I wish all of you the as well as several meetings with cellence, a program which really fo- done a good job for our custom- happiness of the holiday season. the USARC G3/5/7 about future cuses on installation management ers in 2012 in providing both drill Take time to be with your Fami- force structure; all future events business and the ties between a sergeants and leader trainers that lies, friends and loved ones. Be that will have an impact of one sort command’s mission goals and the have done tremendous work at the safe both on the highway and off. I or another on the 108th Training Army Campaign Plan. This program various Army Installations. We must look forward to working with all of Command and… you. It is a little gave my staff and I the opportu- continue to excel in what we pro- you in 2013. diffi cult to predict the outcomes or nity to pause and refl ect on who vide to this customer base. Victory starts here!

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From the Commanding General ...... 3 From the Command Sergeant Major ...... 5 95th Div. Hosts Commanders/Honors Local WWI-Era Female Marine ...... 6 Casing Ceremony for the 98th Training Division (IET) ...... 8 98th Iroquois Arrive at New Location Dedicated to WWII Chaplain ...... 9 Driscoll Takes Command of 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) ...... 11 2012 Best Warrior Competition Begins at Fort Lee ...... 14 Three-Event APFT Retained Pending Baseline Soldier Physical Readiness Study ...... 16 Drill Sergeant + Leadership Experience = Unlimited Potential ...... 17 Army Tightens Fitness Standards for Students Entering Professional Military Education ...... 18 Soldier Raises Money to Support Veterans ...... 19 WWII Veterans Will Honor 95th Soldiers From Afghanistan Missions ...... 20 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division Welcomes New Commander ...... 21 Wounded Warrior’s Wheelchair Basketball Camp ...... 22 Strong Bonds: How to Avoid Falling for a Jerk(ette) ...... 24 From the 95th Division Commander ...... 26 From the 104th Division Commander ...... 28 Cache In Your Skills ...... 30 95th Conducts STX ...... 30 Drill Sergeants, United Blood Services Unit to Give Back to Acadiana ...... 31 Plan For an Uneventful Winter ...... 32 Chaplains Corner ...... 33 Soldier’s Gold Mine ...... 34 Do You Want to be a Unit Public Aff airs Representative? ...... 36

108th Training Command (IET) • Charlotte, NC • Vol. 36, No. 4 Winter 2012 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General...... Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall Command Sgt. Maj...... Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. Derezza Deputy Commanding General...... Brig. Gen. Allan Elliot Chief of Staff ...... Col. Daniel Christian Chief Executive Offi cer...... Mr. Larry Cruz

108th Training Command Public Aff airs (IET) Public Aff airs Offi cer...... Lt. Col. Chris Black Email: [email protected] Public Aff airs Specialist ...... Ms. Deborah Williams Email: [email protected] Griff on Editor...... Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith Email: [email protected]

95th Training Division (IET) Commander...... Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty Command Sgt. Maj...... Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Minton Public Aff airs Offi cer...... Cpt. Jennifer Cotten Email: [email protected] Public Aff airs NCOIC...... Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire Email: [email protected]

98th Training Division (IET) Commanding General...... Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards Command Sgt. Maj...... Command Sgt. Maj. Grady Blue Jr. Public Aff airs Offi cer...... Vacant Public Aff airs NCOIC...... Vacant

104th Training Division (LT) Commanding General...... Brig. Gen. Kurt Hardin Command Sgt. Maj...... Command Sgt. Maj. Juan M. Loera Jr. Public Aff airs Offi cer...... Maj. Alex Johnson Email: [email protected] Public Aff airs NCOIC...... Vacant Pictured Above: The Army Reserve Best Warrior Noncommissioned Offi cer of the Year 2012, Staff Sgt. Jeff rey Rios, a member of the 98th Training Division (IET), competes during the De- The Griff on is published four times a year and is an authorized publication for members of the Army. Contents of The Griff on are not necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the 108th Training Command (IET). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including partment of the Army Soldier and Noncommissioned Offi cer of the Year Best Warrior Competi- supplements and inserts, does not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Knight Communications, Inc. of the products or services advertised. tion at Fort Lee, Va. Photo by Staff Sgt. Joy Dulen, 335th Signal Command (Theater) Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affi liation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, use or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confi rmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Griff on is an unoffi cial publication authorized by AR360-1. Editorial content is prepared, edited, and provided by the Public Aff airs Offi ce of the 108th Training Command (IET). The Griff on is published by Knight Communications, Inc., 10150 Front Cover: The sun rises as drill sergeants from the 108th Training Division grade competitors Mallard Creek Road, Suite 201, Charlotte, NC, 28262 — a private fi rm in no way connected with the Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the 108th as they complete the two-mile run of the Army Physical Fitness test at the Army Reserve Best Training Command (IET). Material for publication may be submitted to: PAO, 1330 Westover Street, Charlotte, NC 28205-5124. Warrior competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., July 16, 2012. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marisol Hernandez, U.S. Army Reserve Command To coordinate news coverage, contact the 108th Training Command Public Affairs Offi ce - 704-227-2820 ext. 4087 Deadlines: Spring 2013 January 4 • Summer 2013 April 12 THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 5 From the Command Sergeant Major...

2005 there were no programs like other spouses that had never been deployed you spend a lot of time the Yellow Ribbon program avail- through a deployment and help with these Soldiers and when you able to my Family or myself. With them understand what to expect. come home most of the time you so many Reservists and National She also had a chance to meet con- don’t see these Soldiers again until Guard deploying during that time, tacts in the Family Programs depart- a Yellow Ribbon event. It’s good to the military became aware of a ments to assist her with anything come together after 30 or 60 days need to provide resources for de- while I was gone. One thing she and follow-up with how each is ployed Soldiers and their Families. has always told me is that she has doing since returning home. The As a result, the Yellow Ribbon Rein- enjoyed meeting others that are go- 90-day post-deployment event is tegration Program was created. The ing through the same thing as she only attended by the Soldier. In this Army provides travel arrangements is and she feels they can relate to event, the program focuses on the including fl ights and hotel reserva- her feelings better. It’s a great op- Soldier’s health and their adjust- tions for each Family that attends. A portunity for the Family to feel they ment and reintegration process. lot of hard work goes into coordi- are understood and there is help This event also provides another nating and providing resources for for them whenever they need it. opportunity for the Soldiers to re- these events. The events I attended The post-deployment events connect with members of their were conducted by the 81st RSC. are held 30, 60, and 90 days after unit. The pre-deployment event pre- the Soldier returns. The fi rst two I want to praise everyone in- pares the Soldier and their Family involve the Soldier and the Family. volved in coordinating Yellow Rib- By Command Sgt. Maj. for deployment. They provide infor- These events contain a vast amount bon events. They work hard and Rocci R. DeRezza mation to the Family about what to of information from help with fi nd- run the program fl awlessly. My ex- 108th Training Command (IET) expect when their Soldier deploys. ing employment to understanding perience with each of the events Before and after my deployment It’s an opportunity to meet oth- the feelings of reintegrating back I attended has assisted myself and to Afghanistan, I had the opportu- ers and gain resources that may be into normal day-to-day life. Class- my Family with not only informa- nity to participate in the Yellow needed during deployment. After es are attended by you and your tion on resources that I did not Ribbon Reintegration Program. I the Soldier deploys, the Family is in- spouse. They have activities for the know existed for returning Soldiers recently completed my last event vited to attend another event with- children during the time you par- but also to give me the opportu- in a series of events that are provid- out their Soldier. My wife attended ticipate in classes. This event is to nity to come together with other ed to National Guard and Reserve an event while I was deployed and help the Soldier and their Family Soldiers and share our stories. If Components. The series of events even though she had experienced a members reconnect after deploy- you are going to be deployed in consist of a pre-deployment event, deployment before she was able to ment. When we attended these the near future or are just return- an event for the Families during de- meet spouses and Family members events, we tried to coordinate with ing home, I highly recommend you ployment, demobilization and post- of the Soldiers I was serving with. some of the other Soldiers and take advantage of attending all of deployment. The Yellow Ribbon She explained it as a great time to their Families to see that we tried the Yellow Ribbon events. It’s an programs are tailored to assist Fami- bond with others that were expe- to attend events at the same time. outstanding program that the Army lies in all phases of a deployment. riencing the same thing she was. I enjoyed seeing the Soldiers again provides for you and your Family to When I deployed to Iraq in 2004 to In her case, she was able to assist with whom I had served. When assist you with your deployment.

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Proud Partners in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program nyit.edu/veterans NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 6 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 3rd Brigade, 95th Division hosts Division Commanders/honors local WWII-era female Marine

By Lt. Col. James R. Martin mission capability,” contin- When the nurses and staff 3rd Brigade, 95th Division ued Holbert, “the command saw the six of you walk- RICHMOND, Ky. — Recently, must maintain a high level ing into Baptist Hospital in 3rd Brigade, 95th Division, had the of Soldier and unit readiness Richmond, everyone knew honor of hosting the 108th Train- to be the ‘Leading Edge’ for something big was happen- ing Command and 95th Division the Army Reserve. To effec- ing. Three of the nurses have commanders during a command- tively manage this readiness, military ties and couldn’t er’s conference from Aug. 23-26 at we implemented a system- imagine who was so impor- the Armed Forces Reserve Center. atic reporting process that tant to warrant that level of Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall, command- objectively assesses Soldier recognition. “Nell celebrated her 90th er, 108th Training Command (IET), and unit readiness as well birthday in July and until the and Brig. Gen. Arlen “Ray” Royalty, as forecast mission capa- fall that hospitalized her, was commander, 95th Training Divi- bilities. This will ensure we fi t, active and 100% inde- sion (IET), joined the 3rd Brigade are doing our part to help L-R: Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall, commanding general, 108th pendent. Eight broken ribs, commander, Col. Conrad “Buddy” the Army Reserve realize Training Command (IET), Brig. Gen. Arlen Ray Royalty, com- bruised organs and a small Holbert who rolled out an initiative its 2020 Vision and Strategy mander, 95th Training Division (IET), Lt. Col. James Martin, puncture in her lung com- called “Leading Edge.” Plan.” deputy commander, 3rd Brigade, 95th Division, (grandson bined to put her fl at on her Holbert explains further, “This Conference attendees of Campbell), Col. Conrad “Buddy” Holbert, commander, 3rd very painful back. Although conference was designed to review included the 3rd Brigade Brigade, 95th Training Division, Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. DeRezza, command sergeant major, 108th Training Com- she bravely did her best to FY 2013 plans while providing an command, staff and all the mand (IET), and Command Sgt. Maj. Ayers with Cpl. Nell maintain a good attitude, the opportunity to discuss issues and battalion/ squadron-level Martin Campbell, WWII-era Camp Pendleton Marine. Camp- pain and shock was almost develop countermeasures. Our bri- command and staff teams. bell gets a surprise visit from members of the 108th Training unbearable. gade currently functions as both an Third Brigade offi cers and Command (IET) and 95th Training Division (IET). Photo by “Your visit came at the operational force and a generating NCOs at all levels not only John Martin perfect time! The realization force, receiving missions from both heard fi rst-hand information leadership, the promotion process, that two Generals and others USARC and TRADOC. Commanders and command philosophy from and other topics. Brigade staff and had altered plans and made it a pri- at all levels must understand their Stall, Royalty, and Holbert, but were battalion/squadron-level command ority to visit her was like medicine. command’s missions and determine also able to take part in numerous teams had the opportunity to pro- Your sincere concern was appar- their capabilities to support such breakout sessions as well. vide briefi ngs regarding initiatives ent and the photograph is a keep- missions.” Discussions included growing they were undertaking or updates sake our entire family will treasure. “In order to maintain its dual drill sergeants, servant vs. toxic on unit performance measures. There is one other aspect of your In addition to the conference, visit that she tells everyone. Major Stall, Royalty and other members General Stall bent over her bed and of the 3rd Brigade and division-lev- kissed her forehead. She will never el command and staff took part in forget, and will relive that moment 3rd Brigade’s “no-host” social and forever as she asks the nurses, ‘Have dining-in. They even made time to you ever been kissed by a General?’ make a local visit with a hospital- So far, nobody has. As soon as you ized WWII-era female Marine who left, some big changes happened. is also the grandmother of Lt. Col. Nell was moved to a deluxe suite James Martin of HQ, deputy com- on the top fl oor of the hospital, the mander, 3rd Brigade, 95th Division. nurses brought her fl owers, and Martin said of the visit, “I saw they even stocked her refrigerator. true servant leadership in action. She has been treated like a VIP ever These men not only talk about it, since. News of your visit has spread but live what they believe.” and has spurred others (includ- Martin shared this note given to ing WWII/Vietnam-era members of %TQSGDQÄXNTQÄDCTB@SHNMÄVGHKDÄRS@XHMF him by his family, which sums up the Marine Corps League) to come how special the visit was to all of to visit with her. We thank you for BNMMDBSDCÄSNÄXNTQÄLHMHRSQX them: honoring this precious woman “We want to thank you for the who has served her country so "NQA@MÄ2BGNNKÄNEÄ,HMHRSQXÄNEEDQRÄSNO PT@KHSXÄFQ@CT@SDÄOQNFQ@LR extremely generous expression of proudly and lived these 90 years DMSHQDKXÄNMKHMDÄNQÄDMSHQDKXÄNMÄB@LOTR respect you paid to Corporal Nell with courage.” Martin Campbell--World War II Sincerely, the family of Corporal Nell 2BGNNKÄNEÄ,HMHRSQXÄCDFQDDR Camp Pendleton Marine veteran. Martin Campbell q
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8 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Casing Ceremony for the 98th Training Division (IET)

Casing of 98th Training Division Colors at the Army Reserve Center in Rochester, N.Y. L to R– Maj. Don Montgomery, Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, Master Sgt. John Compitello, and Com- mand Sgt Maj. Grady Blue. Photo by Lt. Col. Chris Black, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Aff airs

By Lt. Col. Chris Black colors to Fort Benning, Ga. for the sad farewell to an old friend. amount of personnel turnover re- 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs uncasing ceremony. Lt. Col. Edward Kuppinger, public quiring the division headquarters To honor the 98th Alumni Associ- affairs offi cer, 98th Training Division to rebuild. ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Soldiers, ate members, to include Maj. Gen. commented, “It’s really a public “We are going to have to rebuild past and present, gathered at the (Ret.) Norbert Rappl, former 98th form of closing out of our time in much of the team, both the full Army Reserve Center to bid fare- Training Division commander, for Rochester and the uncasing cere- timers and the uniformed reserv- well to Headquarters, 98th Training their current and future efforts sup- mony at Fort Benning will symbol- ists, and that will be a challenging Division (IET) at a casing ceremony porting the division Soldiers, they ize the beginning of our tenure in activity, but I think we’re going to on Sept. 8, 2012. The division has were appointed as caretakers of the that location.” put together an organization that been serving the Army and commu- colors. The division move to Fort Ben- the people of New York would be nity of Rochester since 1959. The casing marks the end of an ning was seen as an opportunity proud to consider the same 98th In preparation for the move era for the Iroquois patch in Roch- for many, but created a signifi cant Division,” concluded Edwards. to Fort Benning, Ga., Brig. Gen. ester, N.Y. The casing ceremony Dwayne Edwards, commanding generated a lot of general, 98th Training Division emotion among the (IET), presided over the casing cer- attending retirees, emony for the division colors. Col. family members, and Todd Arnold, chief of staff, 98th community leaders. Training Division, narrated the Rappl said, “Every- ceremony and the commander of body in New York troops was Headquarters and Head- State knows the quarter Company Commander, Maj. Iroquois patch. The Don Montgomery. Soldiers might not Edwards commented, “It is with know what company, some sadness and great pride that battalion or brigade we close decades of service to New they belong to, but York and look forward to a new op- they knew they be- portunity for decades of service to longed to the 98th Fort Benning and the fi ne state of Division.” Georgia. We are proud of our Iro- The ceremony quois alumni and welcome having was a grim moment both northern and southern chap- for many attending ters of their support organizations.” but marked a new With the assistance of the 98th beginning in the divi- Division Command Sgt. Maj. Grady sion history. It was Blue, Edwards ceremoniously cased an opportunity to the division colors and turned them recognize what the over to Master Sgt. John Compitello. division had given As his fi nal mission before retire- to the community of Master Sgt. John Compitello receives the colors for transport to Fort Benning, Ga. Photo by Lt. Col. Chris ment, Compitello will transport the Rochester and bid a Black, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Aff airs THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 9 98th Iroquois Arrive at New Location Dedicated to WWII Chaplain

Bob Heindl (center), Lt. Col Elmer Heindl’s younger brother and niece Kathleen Nichols, cut the ribbon on the Lt. Col. Elmer W. Heindl Armed Forces Reserve Center building dedication ceremony at Fort Benning. With the family members are Brig. Gen. Allan Elliott, deputy commander, 108th Training Command (IET) (fourth from left), Col Robert Choppa, Maneuver Center of Excellence chief of staff (third from left), Maj. Gen. Gill P. Beck, commander, 81st Regional Support Command (next to Heindl) and Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards, commander, 98th Training Command (IET) (next to Nichols). Photo by Mrs. Deborah P. Williams, 108th Training Command, Public Aff airs Offi ce

By Mrs. Deborah P. Williams cated to a Catholic chaplain who cording to his biography, he wanted is best about our Army, ‘The Army 108th Training Command Public Affairs served with distinction in the South to counsel Soldiers, as he believed Values’. A lot of things he did came FORT BENNING, Ga. — After Pacifi c during World War II, Lt. Col. they needed spiritual guidance. straight from the heart, loyalty and fi ve-decades in upstate New York, Elmer Heindl. “He distinguished himself selfl ess service; Chaplain Heindl the 98th Training Command (IET) Heindl was born in Rochester, through his many acts of brav- was all about that. He did not carry will call the Fort Benning Armed N.Y. and ordained a priest in 1936. ery during World War II,” said Maj. a weapon, but his faith in God sus- Forces Reserve Center their new He was the assistant pastor at St. Gen. Gill P. Beck, commander, 81st tained him, an incredible hero.” home. In addition to unfurling the Andrew’s in N.Y., when he volun- Regional Support Command. “The 98th fl ag, the building was dedi- teered to join the Army in 1942. Ac- former chaplain represented what see NEW LOCATION page 10

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* for qualifi ed Yellow Ribbon veterans 10 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012

More than 22 Family members attended the Lt. Col. Elmer W. Heindl Armed Forces Reserve Center building dedication, traveling to Fort Benning from New York, Michigan, Maryland and California. Photo by Mrs. Deborah P. Williams, 108th Training Command, Public Aff airs Offi ce

the Army Reserve. He was the 98th sion (IET) uncased its colors at the Benning; Fort Jackson, S.C.; and Fort New Location Training Division’s chaplain from Lt. Col. Elmer W. Heindl Armed Forc- Leonard Wood, Mo. Continued from page 9 May 1959 to June 1970. es Reserve Center. “Fort Benning is the greatest From 1942 to 1945, Heindl was a “My uncle said he would go back “We see more opportunities than Army installation in the U.S. and chaplain with both the 145th and on active duty if he could. New re- we have ever seen before,” said Brig. we are proud to welcome the Iro- 148th Infantry Regiments under cruits were always saying don’t be Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commander, quois here. No doubt this transition the 37th Division for campaigns in in the same foxhole or stand beside 98th Training Division (IET). “A part was not easy, it never is. The Iro- Guadalcanal, the Solomons and the the chaplain because he is not go- of our heart will remain in New quois have always been pacesetters Philippines. He’s considered among ing to be shot” said Nichols. York, but we will always be 98th Di- providing the fi nest drill sergeants vision Soldiers, good tenants, good the war’s most decorated Soldiers After retiring from the Army Re- available. They provide the watch partners; 98th is in the building and in his profession, having earned the serve in 1980, Heindl continued to guard,” said Brig. Gen. Allan Elliott, Distinguished Service Cross, Silver serve Veterans until he passed away ready to go to work.” The 98th is one of three subor- deputy commander, 108th Training Star, Legion of Merit and Bronze in 2006 at age 96. More than 22 Command (IET). Star. Family members attended the dedi- dinate units to the 108th Training Command (IET). The division has The ceremony concluded with “I am really excited. This is awe- cation, traveling to Fort Benning the playing of the Army Song fol- some for my uncle and well de- from New York, Michigan, Maryland units spread from Maine to Florida lowed by refreshments. This gave served. I am sure he is in heaven and California. and out to Texas, with a battalion Soldiers, Family and friends an op- looking down,” said Kathleen Nich- Nichols concluded, “All the fam- based in Puerto Rico. The 98th Iro- ols. “He was very humble and said ily wishes they could be here. My quois warriors conduct initial entry portunity to welcome the new divi- he did not deserve honors just for uncle’s legacy will continue to live training for new Soldiers and re- sion Soldiers and visit the display doing his job.” on with this building dedication.” cruit drill sergeants for duty at Fort set up in honor of Chaplain Heindl. Even after retirement from active Following the memorialization duty, Heindl continued to serve in ceremony, the 98th Training Divi-

serving those that serve our country Free Checking Free Online, Mobile and Text Message Banking* Free Bill Pay and E-Statements New Location On Fort Jackson: 5470 Jackson Blvd. 800-272-0695 www.allsouth.org Following the memorialization ceremony, the 98th Training Division (IET) Commander, Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards, uncased the colors at the Lt. Col. Elmer W. Heindl Armed *Standard Rates Apply Federally Insured by the NCUA. Forces Reserve Center. Photo by Mrs. Deborah P. Williams, 108th Training Command, Public Aff airs Offi ce THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 11 Driscoll takes command of 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET)

The Soldiers of 1st Brigade, 98th Division (IET), stand in formation during a Change of Command Ceremony held Oct. 20 at the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga. Col. Chadwick Barklay relinquished command of 1st Brigade to the incoming commander, Col. Paul Driscoll. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Aff airs

By Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith ship and for being and inspiration sergeants are an integral compo- Thomas welcomed Driscoll back 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs to all the Soldiers in the brigade. nent of the U.S. Army. “What you do to the 98th Division and attributes COLUMBUS, Ga. — Col. Paul “Col. Barklay has held up the is truly important. Nobody ever for- the success of the brigade to the Driscoll assumed command of the legacy of the commanders that gets their drill sergeant. Every time range of experience and skills of its 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division came before him to carry on and you step in front of a future Soldier present and past leadership. (IET) from Col. Chadwick Barklay take care of every task and mission whether it’s a new recruit or a ca- “He as well as Col. Barklay brings at a ceremony here, Oct. 20, 2012. our division could ever ask. We all det you are shaping the Army of the a great varied background with Col. Loretta Thomas, deputy com- know as leaders that it takes the future and that is a sacred respon- them. That, with their leadership, mander, 98th Training Division great Soldiers that fall below that sibility.” allows him to step into this posi- (IET) served as reviewing offi cer at commander to execute those mis- Driscoll who was the chief of tion and continue on with the great the ceremony and Lt. Col. Otto Pad- sions,” said Thomas. staff for the 95th Training Divi- things that Col. Barklay did and as ron, executive offi cer, 1st Brigade, Barklay, fi lled with emotion, sion prior to assuming command well those commanders before 98th Training Division (IET) served thanked everyone present and es- is no stranger to the 98th Divi- him.” as Commander of Troops. pecially the Soldiers of the “War sion. Driscoll served with the 2nd Driscoll received his commission Thomas praised Barklay, the out- Horse” brigade for their dedicated Brigade as the interim commander as a second lieutenant in the Infan- going commander for his leader- loyalty. Barklay remarked that drill from July 2011 until March 2012. see DRISCOLL page 12 Education for a New Career

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JMU OUTREACH & ENGAGEMENT [email protected] (540) 568-4253 www.jmu.edu/outreach 12 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Driscoll Continued from page 11 try in 1985. He has served in a vari- ety of assignments throughout the command since 1995. Driscoll stated that 1st Brigade has always stepped up to get the mission done and will continue to do so in CONUS conducting Initial Entry Training or abroad executing assistance in transition missions. “Drill Sergeants are our primary weapon systems and our center of gravity. Their recruitment, training, and professional development will continue to be our top priority,” said Driscoll. Driscoll is a graduate of the Civil Affairs Offi cer Advanced Course, Combined Arms and Services Staff, Command and General Staff Col- lege, Army War College and Wash- ington and Lee University School of Law. Driscoll is a graduate of the Civil Affairs Offi cer Advanced Course, Combined Arms and Ser- vices Staff, Command and General Staff College, the Army War College and the Washington and Lee Uni- versity School of Law. His awards and decorations in- clude the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commenda- tion medal with Oak Leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Armed Forces Re- serve Medal with “M” Device, Army Col. Loretta Thomas, deputy commander, 98th Training Division (IET)) passes the unit colors to Col. Paul Driscoll, incoming commander, Reserve Component Achievement 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) at the Change of Command Ceremony on Oct. 20. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Medal with 3 Oak leaf clusters, Iraq Command (IET) Public Aff airs Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Combat Infantryman Badge, Ranger Defense Service Medal, Overseas Tab, Basic Parachutist Badge and Air Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, Assault Badge. Freedom isn’t free. But your education can be.

veterans.lipscomb.edu 615.966.5176 Col. Paul Driscoll addresses Soldiers of 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) at the Change of Command Ceremony on Oct. 20, at the National Infantry Museum, Columbus, Ga. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Aff airs

14 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 2012 Best Warrior Competition begins at Fort Lee

By Terrance Bell ed a number of to competitors. Reed was at liberty IMCOM changes intend- to say that the board appearance FORT LEE, Va. (Oct. 15, ed to strength- will be moved from the fi rst day of 2012) — Twenty-four of the Army’s en the event. competition to the last. fi nest warriors converged here Sun- First, it has been Chandler, welcoming the war- day to engage in a fast-paced and shortened from riors at a Sunday evening social, intense battle against themselves fi ve to four conveyed to the Soldiers they are a and each other as participants of days. Secondly, select group whose achievements the premier Soldier skills competi- the traditional are distinguished. tion. order of events “There’s only going to be one The event, offi cially called the has been rear- winner for the NCO and for the Sol- Department of the Army Soldier ranged in an dier category, but you have got to and Noncommissioned Offi cer of effort to make accept that it’s taken a tremendous the Year Best Warrior Competition, it more intense, amount of effort for you to get here known as Best Warrior, or BWC for Command Sgt. Maj. Michael D. Schultz, right, the Command Ser- said Sgt. 1st to this place,” he said. “Be proud of short, brings together 12 noncom- geant Major of the U.S. Army Reserve, congratulates Staff Sgt. Jef- Class Randall your accomplishments. You each missioned offi cers, or NCOs, and 12 frey Rios, the Army Reserve Noncommissioned Offi cer of the Year, at Reed, the Fort came in here with your head held junior Soldiers from the Army’s ma- the 2012 Army Reserve Best Warrior competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., Lee Best War- high, and you’re going to leave out July 20. Rios, a member of the 98th Training Division (IET), is repre- rior planning of here with your head held high jor commands to demonstrate their senting the Army Reserve at the Department of the Army Best War- profi ciencies in skills critical to the rior competition at Fort Lee, Va. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mark Burrell cell NCO in saying you have done your best. success of every Soldier. charge. Why is that? Because you are a Best Warrior events include a always looks forward to the compe- “It will be a United States Army Soldier.” physical training test, a board ap- tition. high-paced competition that will Soldiers who participate in Best pearance, land navigation and a “Fort Lee is honored to be able challenge and surprise the competi- Warrior are typically winners of number of tasks deemed essential to host the Army’s Best Warrior tors with events we haven’t seen in battalion and brigade-level Best for survival on the battlefi eld, such Competition once again,” he said. previous years,” he said during the Warrior competitions before mov- as casualty evaluation and weapons “The BWC is one of the most pres- planning phases of the event. ing up to the major command-level. marksmanship. tigious competitions in the Army Reed, holding true to tradition, Some of these competitions begin Fort Lee has hosted the event and Fort Lee is proud to be a part did not disclose any of the specifi c roughly one year in advance of DA’s nine of the 11 years it has been of it.” changes. The chronological order of Best Warrior. Spc. James Conklin, held. Command Sgt. Maj. James K. The sergeant major of the Army events in past competitions were representing the Army Materiel Sims, acting command sergeant ma- oversees Best Warrior. In his second the APFT, a board appearance, ur- Command in the Soldier of the Year jor, Combined Arms Support Com- year as the noncommissioned of- ban orienteering, Warrior Tasks and category, said preparations leading mand, and the installation’s ranking fi cer in charge, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Battle Drills and a Mystery Event -- a up to Best Warrior can be diffi cult. Best Warrior offi cial, said the post Raymond F. Chandler III has direct- part of the competition unknown “The most challenging part of THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 15 the competitions has been staying Installation Management Command rior who competed last year, said The Soldiers who best dealt with motivated while dealing with physi- in the Noncommissioned Offi cer no matter how hard you train, Best the stress in last year’s competition cal and mental exhaustion,” said the of the Year category. He said he Warrior will test your physical and were Sgt. Guy Mellor of the Army Fort Eustis-assigned Soldier. “Each has also trained hard and thorough mental limits. National Guard and Spc. Thomas level has been more diffi cult than but said it is diffi cult to pinpoint “The most challenging portion Hauser of the U.S. Army Forces the last, but I am ready for the next exactly what to train on and said of the Best Warrior Competition Command, the Noncommissioned challenge. Over the past year, I have he didn’t want to be too predictive is the stress that is placed on you Offi cer of the Year and the Soldier been training continuously, increas- about what could be expected. throughout the competition,” said of the Year, respectively. The win- ing my knowledge, strength, endur- “I’m not sure what’s going to the NCO representing the U.S. ners are traditionally awarded an ance and agility.” go on,” he said. “I know I can ex- Army Space and Missile Defense abundance of gifts from sponsors Conklin said he exercised two pect the PT test, weapons quali- Command at Redstone Arsenal, and supporting organizations. Ad- to three hours per day, ran fi ve to fi cation, land navigation. I’m just Ala. “Each Soldier and noncommis- ditionally, they embark on a tour of eight miles, lifted weights, ruck kind of open to expecting things sioned offi cer is being evaluated media interviews and personal ap- marched with more than 100 that I haven’t seen before -- differ- constantly, and you must always be pearances in support of the Army. pounds of gear, trained at the ent types of scenarios and different ready to react to any situation. We The competition continues weapons range and practiced land types of training.” will be sleep-deprived, worn out, through Thursday, and the winners navigation among other training While Best Warrior is a contest, and stressed out, but we are expect- are scheduled to be announced activities to ready himself for Best it is also one of the most extensive ed to be able to react intelligently at the Sergeant Major of the Army Warrior. and intense training opportunities and professionally at all times. The Awards Luncheon of the AUSA An- Staff Sgt. Randy D. Roscoe of Fort afforded any Soldier. Sgt. Brandon Soldier and NCO who can do that nual Meeting and Exposition, Oct. Huachuca, Ariz., will represent the Kitchen, a rare returning Best War- will be this year’s Best Warriors.” 22, in Washington, D.C. 16 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Three-event APFT retained pending baseline Soldier physical readiness study

By Stephanie Slater, TRADOC recommend test events that have FORT EUSTIS, Va. (Aug. 26, a functional connection to WTBD, 2012) — The Army will retain the and accurately measure baseline current three-event Army Physi- fi tness against valid performance cal Fitness Test, pending a study standards. The study is expected to determine the best method to to begin in October 2012 and will measure baseline Soldier physical include fi tness experts from across readiness. the Army. U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Decisions to change long-stand- Command found that implement- ing and proven systems of physical ing changes to how the Army as- fi tness are not made lightly, or pre- sesses physical fi tness would be maturely, said the TRADOC com- premature. mand sergeant major. “We anticipate that the baseline “Emerging factors and chang- Soldier physical readiness study, ing combat environments demand linked to Warrior Tasks and Battle a thorough understanding before Drills, may generate new informa- changes are implemented, and thus tion that affects how we develop the decision to retain the current and test physical fi tness,” said TRA- test,” Dailey said. “Whatever the DOC Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. new test looks like, it must accu- Dailey. Soldiers from the 108th Training Division (IET) conduct the two-mile run portion of the rately evaluate fi tness levels for all Army Physical Fitness Test. Photo by Lt. Col. Christopher Black, 108th Training Command Soldiers to decisively win in com- What Was Proposed? (IET), Public Aff airs Offi ce bat.” In 2011, TRADOC implemented a ness Test, or APRT, was developed More than 10,000 Soldiers world- physical fi tness training philosophy and proposed to replace the cur- wide participated in pilot testing of What’s Next? that Soldiers are better prepared rent three-event APFT. The pro- the APRT. After reviewing the data, TRADOC is preparing to reestab- if they train how they would fi ght. posed test eliminated situps and TRADOC commissioned an inde- lish the master fi tness trainer pro- This prompted the Army Physical included the following: 60-yard pendent panel to validate the pro- gram. Targeting noncommissioned Fitness School to re-evaluate a Sol- shuttle run, one-minute rower, posed fi ve-event APRT. offi cers, this program, discontinued der’s physical capabilities. standing long jump, one-minute in 2001, will eventually provide A fi ve-event Army Physical Readi- pushup and 1.5-mile run. Why Retain the Three-Event commanders at all levels certifi ed APFT? fi tness advisers. A pilot master fi t- In separate reports, the panel of ness training course, or MFTC, be- fi tness experts from the Depart- gins Aug. 27, 2012, to ensure that ment of Physical Education at the the appropriate steps are taken to U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Army restore this previously successful Medical Research and Development physical fi tness asset to all units. Command, and California State “Bringing back MFTC will stan- University-Fullerton recommended dardize unit physical training and against moving forward with the increase unit readiness across the proposed fi ve-event APRT and that Army,” Dailey said, referring to the TRADOC further study the issue. doctrine in TC 3-22.20 Army Physi- The panel of subject-matter ex- cal Readiness Training (Aug. 2010). perts agreed that the fi ve-event TC 3-22.20 focuses unit train- Army Physical Readiness Test has ing on developing Soldier physi- “face validity” only, meaning that al- cal readiness required to perform though it appears to measure what WTBD. WTBD are the fundamental it claims to measure, further study combat skills which all Soldiers, would be required to confi rm. Ad- regardless of rank, age, gender or ditionally, experts agreed that TRA- military occupational specialty, DOC should consider other events must perform in order to fi ght and that may better predict baseline win on the battlefi eld. To strength- Soldier physical readiness. Soldier en the emphasis on implementing baseline physical readiness is the physical readiness training doctrine ability to meet the physical de- Army wide, TRADOC will also tran- mands of combat and duty position, sition TC 3-22.20 Physical Readi- and accomplish the mission while ness Training to Field Manual 7-22 conducting unifi ed land operations. Physical Readiness Training in fall TRADOC has determined that 2012. baseline Soldier physical readiness “It’s time to break the culture of would be most effectively mea- ‘training to the test’ and focus in- sured if linked to Warrior Tasks stead on preparing all Soldiers for and Battle Drills, known as WTBD the physical challenges of the cur- -- tasks and drills determined over rent and future operating environ- the last decade of war to be criti- ment. Executing physical training in cal while conducting unifi ed land accordance with the doctrine [TC operations. 3-22.20] will also reduce injuries Given the independent study, and improve Soldier performance and the logic of linking fi tness to on the APFT,” Dailey said. WTBD, TRADOC will initiate a com- “TRADOC recognizes that lead- prehensive study of Soldier fi tness ers will continue to assess unit requirements to determine the best physical training needs based on method to measure baseline Sol- the mission and the OE and adjust dier physical readiness. The objec- training as necessary, but the place tive of the study is to select and to start is the TC.” THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 17 Drill Sergeant + Leadership Experience = Unlimited Potential

By Deborah P. Williams 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs FORT JACKSON, S.C. — During the Reserve Partnership Counsel (RPC), Master Sgt. Mat- thew C. Miller, command career counselor, 108th Training Com- mand (IET), kept his audience engaged and asking questions. He focused on the drill sergeant mission by discussing his vision for the recruitment of drill ser- geants from the possible 70,000 active component Soldiers re- duction in forces. “My mission is to give them a snapshot of us. What it means to become a drill sergeant or pla- toon leader,” said Miller. “I want to send out information month- ly.” As a drill sergeant, you can distinguish yourself from your peers while challenging yourself mentally, physically, and emo- tionally. Drill sergeants train Sol- diers and make a difference in their lives. Miller needs input from all the command sergeants major by getting them involved in the process and having Sgt. Major Blaine J. Huston, deputy com- mandant, Drill Sergeant School, Fort Jackson, S.C., talk to EVERY Army Reserve Career Counselor (ARCC)/Reserve Component Ca- reer Counselor (RCCC) motivat- ing them to sell drill sergeants. Master Sgt. Matthew C. Miller, command career counselor, 108th Training Command (IET), addressed the Reserve Partnership Counsel (RPC) Discrepancies also need to be on drill sergeant recruitment. Photo by Deborah P. Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Aff airs Offi ce advertised so they will not show up on the Request or Retain sys- candidate,” said Miller. tems for recruitment. By putting out a user-friendly “Case in point, I was an ARCC power point presentation to EV- Forward thinking. World ready. at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa. for six ERY ARCC/RCCC telling the 108th www.fhsu.edu/virtualcollege 800.628.FHSU years. About four years into my as- Training Command drill sergeant signment I had a high speed female story, being a 108th drill sergeant NOBODY DOES “MILITARY FRIENDLY” BETTER THAN FHSU staff sergeant, Staff Sgt. Jessica Ak- candidate becomes a viable option. A World Leader in Online Education at an Affordable Price ers, come up to me and tell me she Producing a “Letter of Accep- Awarded America’s Top Military-Friendly Colleges & Universities 4 Years Running wanted to join the Military Police tance” that can be signed and re- Easy Transferability of Credits Fully Accredited drill sergeant detachment,” said ceived by the RCCC, ARCC, ACC, LOI Institution MyCAA Miller. USAR Recruiter and MEPS Guid- Ranked a National Best Buy GoArmyEd Partner ance in the fi eld within the 15-min- Yellow Ribbon Troops to Teachers Miller told her the closest drill Recognized for Excellence Accepts DANTES and CLEP Exams sergeant unit was in Baltimore ute appointment with that po- By the Sloan-C Foundation when in reality there was a detach- tential drill sergeant candidate is OVER 40 ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAMS AVAILABLE essential, concluded Miller. ment drilling in her building every BACHELOR’S DEGREES Nursing - RN to BSN Miller reached out to the recruit- month. Because they were attached Bachelor of General Studies Organizational Leadership to a UIC out of Baltimore, Miller ers asking if they have any ideas, Customizable Degree Technology Leadership was not aware of it. to please let him know in order to 17 Options Available MASTER’S DEGREES Bachelor of Arts “I initiated her 4651-R and she at- help improve any prospect or spon- Master of Business Administration Philosophy 11 Concentrations Available tended Drill Sergeant School a few sorship aspect of this process. Political Science Master of Liberal Studies months later,” concluded Miller. The Accessions Career Coun- Psychology Customizable Degree Sociology 20 Options Available “If this information is not put selors (ACC), which is under Army Bachelor of Business Administration Master of Professional Studies out to the recruiting entities they Reserve Careers Division (ARCD), International Business & Economics 7 Concentrations Available Management Master of Science will NEVER know! The only way is going away as of FY 13. MEPS Management - Concentration in Human Resources Education they will know that there is a drill guidance counselors and the local Management Information Systems Educational Administration sergeant detachment is if we show recruiters will be vital to capture Marketing Health and Human Performance Tourism and Hospitality Management Instructional Technology them and tell them,” said Miller. “So the Prior Service (PS) market. Bachelor of Science Nursing please let me know these things!!” “From experience, there is no Business Education Administration 3 Concentrations Available Education Miller has good insight into better applicant out there than a Education Special Education where to head with the drill ser- PS applicant. This is a Soldier that’s Elementary Education (Special Ed & ESOL Minors Available) School Psychology geant initiative. been sitting at home, went to the Early Childhood Unified (ESOL Minors Available) CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS mall to talk with a recruiter, and Information Networking and Telecommunications Target your skills with 51 “A ‘user friendly’ system needs to Web Development Certificates available. be developed that will ‘sustain the wants nothing more than to be Computer Networking & Telecommunications funnel’ in order to maintain a con- back in uniform,” said Miller. “Typi- Justice Studies Medical Diagnostic Imaging tinuous fl ow of qualifi ed E-4s thru cally these would make awesome E-7s that want to be a drill sergeant drill sergeant applicants!” Apply Online Now Financial Aid Available 18 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Army tightens fi tness standards for students entering professional military education

WASHINGTON (Army News Offi cer Senior Staff Course, the Ad- Service, Oct. 1, 2012) — Pre-war vanced Leaders Course, the Senior height, weight and physical fi tness Leaders Course, and the Warrior standards are coming back for Sol- Leader Course. diers entering professional military The policy change applies equal- education courses on or after ly to courses taught in-residence Nov. 1. and by mobile training teams. The short explanation is: if you’re Soldiers who are identifi ed to at- heavier than you should be, or you tend these courses and schools will can’t meet the Army’s physical fi t- get an initial Army physical fi tness ness standards, you’re not going to test, height and weight screening. get into the professional military Those who don’t pass the initial education, or PME, course you’re test will be allowed one retest. scheduled to attend. Soldiers who don’t meet require- The standards had been waived ments after the second test will be because the Army needed as many removed from the course. Their Soldiers as possible trained for the service school academic evaluation Iraq and Afghanistan confl icts -- but report will also be annotated “failed that is no longer the case. to achieve course standards.” “In 2007, when the Army was Sgt. 1st Class Ruth Morris, a drill sergeant assigned to the 108th Training Division, keeps “Reestablishing the Army physi- fi ghting two simultaneous confl icts, count during the push-up event of the Army Physical Fitness test at the Army Reserve Best cal fi tness test and height/weight we instituted a physical fi tness Warrior competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., July 16, 2012. standards into our professional mili- waiver for institutional training reset cycles. We accepted this risk, all Army activities, PME courses af- tary education programs reinforces courses,” said Brig. Gen. Todd Mc- rather than send an untrained or fected include the Senior Service the efforts the Army’s senior lead- Caffrey, director of Army training. unschooled Soldier back to their College, the Sergeants Major Acad- ers have been emphasizing on stan- “This ensured Soldiers attending units.” emy, the Joint Special Operation dards based training and education,” these courses received the required Now, McCaffrey said, the Army Forces Senior Enlisted Academy, the said McCaffrey. education and relevant operational can afford to have Soldiers who Captains Career Course, intermedi- More information regarding the and combat skills training, regard- meet both the training and fi tness ate level education, the Warrant Of- policy change can be found at: less of temporary fi tness issues standards. fi cer Advance Course, the Warrant http://www.apd.army.mil/pdffi les/ or post-deployment recovery and According to a message sent to Offi cer Staff Course, the Warrant ad2012_20.pdf. THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 19 Soldier Raises Money to Support Veterans

By Capt. Jennifer K. Cotten each playing at least one cover mend these courses 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs song from the band Pantera in trib- to returning veterans MADISON, Wis. — Sgt. 1st ute to its guitar player, “Dimebag because they are one Class Christopher A. Lanners, 4th Darrell” Abbott, who was murdered way to come back Brigade, 95th Training Division in 2004 by a former marine suffer- and see the beautiful (IET) organized the Pantera Trib- ing from mental issues. places in the coun- ute Show on Aug. 18 to raise funds Lanners said, “All in all, we had try that we work so for Outward Bound, a program that a great turn out and raised over hard to defend. It re- helps returning veterans readjust $1,000 for Outward Bound’s vet- minds us of what we to civilian life through wilderness eran program.” are fi ghting for.” expeditions. He chose this particular char- According to The show that was held at the ity because Lanners, who was de- Outward Bound’s Regent Street Retreat in Madison ployed to Kuwait in 2003, has been website, “Veterans took four months to plan. Admis- on three trips with Outward Bound. expeditions require Lanners said, “There is no better participants to dig Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Lanners caught a fl ounder dur- sion was $5 and featured fi ve bands, ing a primitive fi shing trip in the Gulf of Mexico with Out- place to clear your mind deep and discover ward Bound, a program that off ers wilderness expeditions than being out in a natu- strength in a non-mil- to veterans as a way to help them “rebuild a sense of spirit.” ral environment. I was itary setting. After the Courtesy phototo reenergize himself through wilderness able to come back to my course, participants challenges. Courtesy photo family clear-headed and report higher levels refreshed.” of self-confi dence and experi- His fi rst trip was hik- ence healthier and more bal- ing in the Mahoosuc anced lives.” Mountains in Maine. He To learn more about Outward said some of the high- Bound visit their website at www. lights included views outwardbound.org. from the tops of moun- tains as the leaves Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Lanners changed colors, trail- second trip with Outward Bound blazing a new loop on was a white water rafting trip in Sgt. First Class Christopher A. Lanners (right) enjoys sea the Grafton loop trail as Utah. Lanners said, highlights of the kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico while on a trip with Out- a service project, and trip included sunrise over Canyon- ward Bound. Lanners recently raised over $1,000 for the lands National Park, piloting a Class program as a way to give back since the program has al- climbing a 75-foot cliff 4 rapids, and swimming at the con- lowed him opportunities to reenergize himself through face. fl uence of the Green and Colorado wilderness challenges. Courtesy photo Lanners said, “I recom- rivers. Courtesy photo

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To learn more about the online graduate programs in Applied Intelligence at Mercyhurst University, please visit intel.mercyhurst.edu. 20 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 WWII Veterans will Honor 95th Soldiers from Afghanistan Missions

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) James E. Archer, president of the 95th Association and former commanding general of the 95th Division poses with Detachment 13 Soldiers during their deployment to Afghanistan from April 2006 until April 2007. These Soldiers are among the more than 500 Soldiers who will be honored at the Association’s 64th reunion set for August 2013 in Dallas/ Fort Worth.

By Capt. Jennifer K. Cotten reunion set for August 2013 in the toring and advising drill sergeants Training Mission—Afghanistan. Af- 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Dallas/Fort Worth area. of the Afghan National Army (ANA). ter ten iterations, the mission ended World War II veterans have an- In December 2005, the 95th had Soldiers, most who were U.S. Army in 2012. nounced they will honor more than its fi rst overseas deployment as a Reserve Drill Sergeants, served as In addition, the Association will 500 “Victory Team” Soldiers at the unit since WWII. It was the begin- part of Embedded Training Teams, honor the fi rst ever 95th female 95th Division Association’s 64th ning of a seven year mission men- Mobile Training Teams and NATO Soldiers to be deployed. The female drill sergeants deployed in 2010 and served as instructors for the fi rst ANA Female Offi cer Candidate School. All Soldiers will be honored for their support of the Govern- ment of the Islamic Republic of Af- ghanistan. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) James E. Archer, president of the 95th Infantry Divi- sion Association and former com- manding general of the division said, “The Veterans are pleased to honor the current Soldiers and their sacrifi ces. As part of our grati- tude, we plan to present the de- tachment Soldiers with a special memento in honor of their service. The Iron Men of Metz have shown continuing interest in the wartime service of current 95’ers, since the tragic events of 9/11. They are justly proud that these Soldiers have pre- pared for their service with the knowledge that they are continuing a long and courageous tradition es- tablished by our Veterans of World War II in France, Belgium, and Ger- many.” The association’s plans for the reunion are currently underway. Archer said, “Soldiers who were part of the ANA history should stay tuned for further details on how they can participate in the reunion and receive the recognition they deserve from their predecessors and comrades.” THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 21 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division welcomes new Commander

By Capt. Josiah Fisher recruit and retain of more than 2,000 per- 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) drill sergeants that sonnel, to include 850 Iraqi correctional offi cers AMHERST, N.Y. — The 4th Bri- exceed the Army gade, 98th Training Division wel- standards.” and 150 Bulgarian Sol- comed its new commander in a cer- While working diers attached to the unit. emony at the brigade headquarters with the Soldiers Guerra’s initial priori- Sept. 23. of 4th Brigade to ties are to get out and Col. Keith Brelia relinquished his improve the unit’s meet the force in order command to Col. Enrique Guerra efforts was a career to provide his command during a brief ceremony in front of highlight for Bre- guidance and philosophy. battalion command teams, Soldiers lia, his greatest take “A priority of mine is and Families. away from his time to start visiting with ev- Brelia knew before taking com- in command was ery battalion across the mand of the brigade it would be how the unit hon- brigade, so I can engage as the interim commander, but he ors its own. Soldiers and their Fami- jumped at the opportunity and nev- “A memory that lies,” said Guerra. “My er looked back. will stay with me initial guidance to the Col. Enrique Guerra (left) assumes command of the 4th Brigade, 98th Train- “I’m a light infantryman, and I was the sudden brigade staff and battal- ing Division after accepting the unit colors from Col. Todd Arnold, deputy ion command teams was was taught a long time ago that you passing of Com- commander, 98th Training Division as outgoing commander, Col. Keith never turn down an opportunity to mand Sgt. Maj. Rich- Brelia (right) and the 4th Brigade command sergeant major, Command that I will not make any command,” said Brelia. “It doesn’t ard Miller. I was Sgt. Maj. Richard Wark (middle) look on. The ceremony took place at the drastic changes to the matter what level you’re at, com- humble and fortu- brigade headquarters in Amherst, N.Y. Sept. 23. Photo by Mrs. Diane John- established operational son, 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division mand is command. And, there is no nate to witness a processes.” better feeling than commanding a ceremony that ex- Guerra comes to the unit with Guerra is putting an unit.” pressed how the Soldiers of the bri- a wealth of command and leader- emphasis on battalion command Brelia was successful in improv- gade honored a man who touched ship experience both stateside and teams to engage with Soldiers to ing the readiness and standards of so many lives. This was a true tes- overseas. provide mentoring on a more di- the brigade under his watch. To tament and demonstration of our Before his assignment as the rect basis. This means going beyond name a few, he was able to decrease Soldiers living the Army values, and State Emergency Preparedness Liai- counseling their leaders and pro- non-participants, increase medical it represents the foundation of this son Offi cer for New Jersey, he com- viding guidance to Soldiers making readiness and retain a high number brigade,” said Brelia. manded the 744th Military Police decisions on college and or civil- of qualifi ed drill sergeants. But, he All of these reasons are what at- Battalion from 2007 to 2010. Dur- ian career opportunities. He also admits he did not do it alone. tracted Guerra to taking command ing his peacetime mission with the wants to stress the importance of “One of the greatest strengths of the unit. 744th, he led 850 Soldiers spread Family involvement in the unit by in this brigade is the solid offi cers “This brigade has a great reputa- out across 400 square miles. When encouraging their participation in and non-commissioned offi cers tion of attracting top notch Soldiers the 744th deployed to Iraq, Guerra various Family Readiness Group throughout the unit. We have some and leaders,” said Guerra. “This unit commanded a multinational force activities. of the most talented, profession- has generated a stellar record in de- ally educated, caring and dedicated veloping world class drill sergeants citizen Soldiers within the Army that provide superior training to Reserve,” said Brelia. “A byproduct young Soldiers as they enter into of these Soldiers is their ability to the U.S. Army.” 22 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Wounded Warrior’s Wheelchair Basketball Camp

1st Lt. Vernardo Harris, executive offi cer, D Co 1/415th, 95th Training Division (IET), shares his knowledge during the Air Force 2012 Wheelchair Basketball Camp at Nellis Air Force Base. Photo by Sgt. Francisco J. Vargas, 1/415th, 95th Training Divison (IET)

By 1/415th, 95th Training Co 1/415th, 95th Training Division Force 2012 Wheelchair Basketball “Reservist don’t usually get this Division (IET) (IET), was given another opportuni- Camp at Nellis Air Force Base. He opportunity, especially the chance ty to play and teach basketball with said it was a great opportunity to to help out the Air Force,” said LAS VEGAS, Nev. — 1st Lt. Ver- the Air Force. represent the Army Reserve and all Harris. nardo Harris, executive offi cer, D Harris was invited to the Air Army Soldiers during the camp. At the same time, it’s no coinci-

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new set of tools to help them feel more empowered to build stronger and more bonded relationships. The event’s atmosphere allowed attend- ees to refl ect, refocus and to speak about ways relevant to creating and sustaining healthy relationships. Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Glenn Winter who has led the 81st RSC program since 2004, hopes that at the con- clusion of the event the attendees will refl ect on their relationship patterns and gain ideas that will help build and grow stronger rela- tionships. “The focus of the retreat is how to avoid falling in love with a jerk and the best way to achieve this is to avoid being a jerk yourself. Knowing yourself helps you to bet- ter understand other people and will assist you with better assessing how to give your heart without los- ing your mind.”

Staff Sgt. Sabrina, 3/321st, 98th Training Division (IET), interacts with another single Soldier during a group exercise at a Strong Bonds The program included instruc- retreat for Single Soldiers Sept. 8 in New Orleans, La. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Public Aff airs tion from How to Avoid Falling for a Jerk(ette). The lesson provided a By Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith roadmap to using your head and 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs heart when choosing a life partner. NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Attesting to the lack of effective- message was simple — Don’t fall ness of their previous methods, at- in love with a Jerk. And accord- tendees shared their accumulation ing to the strong bonds presenters, of bad decisions and regretful re- there are no easy answers on how fl ections of traitors of the heart. to achieve this, but it pays to be on “Hearing the various points of the lookout for the red fl ags that in- view of others helps me put things dicate a person is not relationship into perspective and understand material. where I have made mistakes in the Soldiers from across the 81st past,” said Staff Sgt. John Caldwell, Regional Support Command (RSC) 3/321st, 98th Training Division, gathered at the Marriott Confer- (IET). “Relationships are just like a ence Center in historic New Or- job. The more you put into them leans prepared to be armed with a the more you will get out of them.” Caldwell also shared that estab- lishing a strong core is vital in mili- tary relationships. “The foundation of a relationship has to be strong. Like a house — if it doesn’t have a strong foundation it will eventually crumble.” Caldwell concluded that foundations are the basis of build- ing family readiness and it helps to sustain and balance strong bonds. The lesson also revealed that in fi nding a healthy balance there are fi ve universal human bonding dy- namics: know, trust, rely, commit and sex, also known as the Relation- ship Attachment Model (RAM). Sgt. Jometra Green, a Soldier with the 3/321st, 98th Training Division, (IET), said she uses the RAM Model in her current relationship. “Indi- viduals need to take their time and know what to look for to form an accurate profi le of the person they are dating. We took the time to get to know one another which led to the commitment stage.” Green add- THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 25 ed that she would continue to use tors stated that commitment is an ances between these bonding dy- and relying on others helps to build the RAM model to assist her with emotional process, and individuals namics in a growing relationship.” teamwork leading to a more cohe- realigning and growing other areas move through it differently. “How Morrell also added that once mas- sive environment.” in her relationship. to use your RAM is key in building tered, the RAM model could also be Visit http://www.strongbonds. Capt. Carmen Murrell, one of relationships. Your heart needs to applied in other areas of one’s life org for more information and to the Strong Bonds retreat instruc- know how to keep suitable bal- such as the workplace. “Trusting register.

Staff Sgt. John Caldwell, 3/321st, 98th Training Division (IET), engages in a discussion with Capt. Carmen Murrell, one of the Strong Bonds retreat instructors at a Strong Bonds retreat for Single Soldiers Sept. 8 in New Orleans, La. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Public Aff airs

An attendee works on a communication exercise during a Strong Bonds retreat for Single Soldiers Sept. 8 in New Orleans, La. The Strong Bonds retreat was hosted by the 81st RSC chaplain’s offi ce and off ered ways to increase individual Soldier and Family readiness and resiliency through relationship education and skills training. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Public Aff airs

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To members of the 95th Train- bring this together — most excel- rience to the team from his time ing Division team — I trust this lent. Second, I want to thank each with the 108th Training Command. fi nds your rucksack always close and every Command Team — Bri- To Jim White — all the best; and to at hand in anticipation for the “On gade and Battalion — that was Jim McCarty — strap in … lots to order, be prepared to ….” While present to actively participate in do — hooah. the future across a global land- the open dialogue. This Division I would like to take this oppor- scape appears unstable on any giv- formation is a warfi ghting orga- tunity to acknowledge the leader- en day, our commitment to readi- nization of excellent intellectual ship, dedication, and outstanding ness requires diligence, focus, and capital, diverse perspectives, and service that Col. “Buddy” Holbert vigilance — everyday. This is about outstanding leadership built on an gave while serving as the Com- attitude — taking the challenge intense loyalty to mission accom- mander for the 3rd Brigade, 95th — and standing fi rm when others plishment. Third, I recognize the Training Division, Lexington, Ky. run at the fi rst sound of gunfi re. An anxiety that many brought to the over the past couple years — truly “equipment check” is in order ev- discussion that appears to surface outstanding. Holbert is moving to eryday for each of us — mentally, when the future is clouded. My tackle the responsibilities of the physically, and spiritually. advice — get up each day — ruck Deputy Chief of Staff, G3 (Opera- The 95th Training Division Com- up — and keep moving … and be tions), 108th Training Command, mander’s Conference conducted deliberate in your actions to ac- Charlotte, N.C. There is no doubt in Oklahoma City in September complish the mission that is pres- that Holbert will serve in an exem- deserves the label of “success” ent today. plary manner for Maj. Gen. Rob- Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty at multiple levels. First, I want to Several months ago, Mr. James ert P. Stall in the very near future. Commanding General thank members of the Division White — a great American — re- Congratulations are in order — job 95th Training Division (IET) staff that worked diligently to tired from the Division’s Chief well done Buddy — drive on …. Executive Offi cer (CXO) position. Recently on a trip into the Wash- PURCHASE COLLEGE CONGRATULATES Always willing to get the job done, ington, D.C. area, I had the chance THE CLASS OF 2012 AND GIVES A SPECIAL SALUTE TO Jim’s presence will be missed — to visit Arlington National Cem- SGT. FERNANDO OCTAVIO GONZALEZ absolutely. I am a better Soldier etery for a couple hours. My fi rst 2012 CLASS SPEAKER because of serving alongside Jim goal was to visit the gravesite of Sgt. Gonzalez is just one of many eligible service members White with his deep sense of loy- Staff Sgt. Russell Shoemaker, 108th who have sought to earn a college degree at Purchase College. alty and dedication to the Army Division, killed in action at 1313 Our convenient location, generous transfer credit policy, Reserve and the division. I would hours, 24 May 2007 in the Trian- affordable tuition, small class size and personalized student services are an ideal fit for those men and women who have also like to thank Ms. Denise Mc- gle of Death, Baghdad, Iraq. While chosen to serve our country. Cleary for her outstanding con- operating as a Combat Advisor PURCHASE COLLEGE tribution to this division while with the 1st Iraqi National Police Awards credit for military training and exams standing in as the Acting CXO for Division, Shoemaker’s vehicle was Offers flexible schedule options Affordable SUNY tuition several months until a backfi ll was ambushed by an Improvised Ex- identifi ed. Meantime, the division plosive Device followed by mas- TO LEARN MORE VISIT www.purchase.edu/admissions is getting a great addition with Mr. sive confusion and small arms fi re James McCarty coming onboard as his vehicle was consumed by as the incoming CXO in the next fi re. A Soldier’s Soldier, Shoemaker couple weeks. McCarty brings a never exhibited any doubts in his wealth of knowledge and expe- mind that we — the Americans — were going to walk away from a fi ght — ever. An exceptional Soldier, Staff Sgt. Shoemaker now rests on hollowed ground. 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Weekend rental period some of America’s fi nest Soldiers, begins Thursday, and car must be returned by Monday 11:59 p.m. or a higher rate will apply. A Saturday night keep is required. Cannot be used for one-way rentals; one coupon per rental. Offer may not be used in conjunction with any other coupon, promotion non-commissioned offi cers, offi - or offer except your Leisure Pass discount. Coupon valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada (excluding the New York Metro area). An advance reservation is required. Offer may not be available during holiday and other blackout periods. cers, and civilians as a member of Offer is subject to vehicle availability at the time of reservation and may not be available on some rates at some times. For reservations made on avis.com, free day will be applied at time of rental. Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum age may vary by location. 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Coupon valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada. Offer subject to vehicle availability at time of reservation and may not be available on some rates at some times. For reservations made on avis.com, gardless of the challenges and the dollars off will be applied at time of rental. Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum age may vary by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old. Rental must begin by 12/31/12. obstacles. Charlie mike Warfi ghters — stay Avis features GM vehicles. ©2009 Avis Rent A Car System, LLC 17515 ready — meet you on the objective … and Godspeed. You served with honor. Now, it’s our honor to serve you.

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Nova Southeastern University admits students of any race, color and nationality or ethnic origin. Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097. Telephone number: 404.679.4501) to award Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Educational Specialist, and Doctoral Degrees. 28 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 From the 104th Division Commander... Mentoring Future Army Leaders and demonstrating the role of the Citizen Soldier is McChord, and a cadet is going eight Training Support Battalions LDAC and LTC, FTX support, leader- through the IED lane during the (TSBs) and six functional battalions ship labs, APFT, Ranger Challenge, Leadership Development and As- that provide support to the Lead- special projects, career counsel- sessment Course, Operation War- ership Development and Assess- ing, coordinating USAR resources rior Forge. A blast goes off and ment Course (LDAC), the Leader- (fi eld trips to USAR units, Reserve immediately a cadre member wear- ship Training Course (LTC), and Simultaneous Membership Program ing a Timberwolf patch on his left the Senior Reserve Offi cer Training (SMP) coordinator), cadet recruit- shoulder tells a cadet, “You’re a Corps (SROTC). Our LDAC and LTC ing outreach, and educating and casualty.” The other cadets quickly battalions provide Training Commit- mentoring cadets on the USAR to assess the injuries and perform fi rst tees, Support Committees, Regi- ensure cadets know as much about aid while the 104th Soldier evalu- mental Cadre, and the coordination the USAR as they do about the Ac- ates the process and procedures. of the USAR Branch Orientation. tive Duty and National Guard. What is a US Army Reserve Soldier The SROTC battalions provide TPU Cadet Command has USAR sup- doing at the Active Duty Cadet Adjunct Faculty (AF) to fi ll critical port at 169 out of 273 host univer- Command training event? training needs at universities across sities (62% of its programs). The Part of the 104th Training Divi- the entire United States. AGR program represents the Army sion’s mission is to provide military As I visit the universities across Reserve with 95 Professors and As- education, reception, and train- the country, the Battalion Com- sistant Professors of Military Sci- ing to future offi cers in support manders of the various ROTC units, ence in addition to our 247 SROTC of United States Army Cadet Com- also known as Professors of Military Adjunct Faculty. The amazing fac- mand’s (USACC) Senior Reserve Science (PMS), reiterate the impor- tor is that our AF provides the only Offi cer Training Corps (ROTC) and Brig. Gen. Kurt Hardin tant role our Adjunct Faculty play USAR coverage at 77 host universi- the United States Military Acad- in each of the ROTC battalions. The ties and 15 partnership universities. Commanding General emy. To do this, the 104th Division 104th Division currently has 247 Why is this important? Without our 104th Training Division (LT) has two Professional Development adjunct faculty members on 137 adjunct faculty, an additional 28% of It’s mid July at Joint-Base Lew- (PD) Brigades that are made up of campuses in 44 states, the District the universities throughout the U.S. of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The would have no Army Reserve rep- AF are administratively supported resentation. The future leaders at by the SROTC Battalions, but are these universities would have no di- OPCON to each USACC ROTC bat- rect contact with a Soldier who can talion at the universities. Each year, tell them what the Army Reserve the AF and the PMS agree on an is all about. These cadets wouldn’t annual training plan to utilize the know anyone who has a success- adjunct faculty member’s UTAs and ful civilian career AND a successful AT days. The AF support is designed military career. These offi cers who to provide crucial support to are assessed into Active Duty might USACC and tell the Army Reserve never consider joining the Reserves story to cadets, providing a better when they leave Active Duty in the understanding of the Army Re- future. Our mission to mentor these serve. They bridge gaps in training cadets, fi ll the gap in training, and instruction and create a positive im- demonstrate the role of the Citizen age of the USAR to our future lead- Soldier is irreplaceable. We do not ers. The support includes teaching limit the number of adjunct faculty military science and history classes, on each campus; that would limit supporting the university’s training the impact the US Army Reserves programs in preparing cadets for has on its future leaders.

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30 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Cache in your skills By Capt. Dale McCurdy and minutes that can easily be (fi ve gallon buckets) that can hold a side highways, usually located in Headquarters, 95th Training Division (IET) converted into military grid refer- wide variety of swag. cemeteries, roadside parks, and The objective was less than 100 ence system coordinates using free Many geocaches are found along- points of interest. Families can use meters away, but there were too smart phone apps geocaches to break up long road many civilians in the area to as- or websites such as trips and provide natural safety sault the objective. Stealth would www.legallandcon- breaks. Many historical markers be required to approach the cache. verter.com. Soldiers have geocaches hidden nearby, pro- The hunter casually glanced at his can plot geocache viding educational opportunities GPS-enabled smartphone to get one locations on maps, for Families. conduct terrain last fi x on his target. The cache was Community Connection hidden in plain sight, but he would analysis to identify Units can use the hobby to fos- have to be at the exact coordinates best avenues of ap- ter a community presence. Units to have any chance of locating the proach, practice can sponsor geocaching events as camoufl aged container. pace counts, and a community service. Soldiers or The target was a microcache, use terrain features units can hide and maintain geo- clandestinely hidden under a park to help locate the caches in the community. bench. The seeker’s battle buddy hidden caches. Geocaching provides Soldiers an had already fi xed the position and Physical Training opportunity to sharpen basic mili- was moving to contact. She took Geocaching can tary skills. Leaders can use this hob- one last look around for observ- be a physically by to develop training events that ers and casually set down on the challenging activ- promote development of land navi- bench. Pretending to drop her bag, ity. Many caches are gation and teamwork skills. Geo- she reached down to pick it up and hidden in remote caching is a healthy, family-friendly instead felt under the metal park areas or along trails. hobby that can serve as a combat bench. Her fi ngers brushed across Every geocache has multiplier. what felt like a magnet key holder both a terrain rating Don’t be a muggle (non-geocach- on the underside of the bench. from one (handicap er) — get out there and start hunt- Her partner joined her on the accessible) to fi ve ing! bench as they pretended to engage (extremely chal- For more information on geo- in conversation. With eyes on the Members of the McCurdy Family locate a cache in the Palo lenging terrain). caching, visit www.geocaching. prize, she opened the key holder. Duro Canyon State Park in Amarillo, Texas. Photo by Capt. Dale McCurdy com. All that was inside were coordi- Other Benefi ts nates to yet another cache. They Geocaching provides a natural still had work to do. scenario to conduct risk assess- What sounds like a special opera- ment, develop operation orders, tions mission is actually an event and team building. Before incorpo- 95th conducts STX happening thousands of times a day rating geocaching into a unit activ- in local parks, rest stops, and other ity, leaders should conduct a risk public places. The hunters are geo- assessment, reconnoiter potential cachers, and the activity is geocach- ing. caches, and develop scenarios that provide purpose for the mission. What is Geocaching? Leaders in training can be tasked Geocaching is a free, real-world with providing warning orders, outdoor treasure hunt. Players try briefi ng the mission, and leading to locate hidden containers, called teams in developing courses of ac- geocaches, using a tion. smartphone or GPS and can share their Family experiences online Involvement (www.geocaching. Geocaching is a com). With over 1.9 family-friendly ac- million geocaches tivity. In addition and over fi ve mil- to terrain ratings, lion geocachers each geocache has worldwide, geo- a diffi culty rating caching has be- ranging from one come a popular (can be found in hobby for many a few minutes) to Soldiers from the 3/334th, 95th Training Division (IET) participate in a Situational Train- (and an obsession fi ve (extreme, may ing Exercise (STX) conducted at Fort McCoy, Wis. Staff Sgt. Tracy Nielsen is applying a for some). Geo- require special bandage to Sgt. Kyle Nygaard’s left hand while Spc. John Rogers applies a tourniquet to caching provides equipment). Most the wounded Soldier’s right leg. Courtesy Photo Soldiers and units geocaches contain By 3/334, 4th Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) an opportunity to treasure (called sharpen basic mili- iPhone screenshot of geocaching swag) that can be FORT MCCOY, Wis. — The 3/334, 4th Brigade, 95th Training Divi- tary skills, connect app shows coordinates as well as traded. Many geo- sion (IET) conducted a Situational Training Exercise (STX) at Fort McCoy, with families and the diffi culty and terrain ratings. cachers trade in Wis. the community, and collectables such as The training incorporated several of the Army Warrior Tasks (AWT) and develop leaders. geocoins, tokens, and other track- battle drills including key leader engagement, reacting to unexploded able items. ordinance (UXO) and improvised explosive devices (IED), reacting to Land Navigation There are many different va- contact, moving under direct fi re, and conducting a casualty evacuation Geocaching provides an oppor- rieties of geocaches. Tradition- (CASEVAC). tunity to sharpen land navigation al geocaches range from micro The training was prefaced by a battalion level concept plan of opera- skills. While the sport relies heav- caches(key holders) that usually tions providing each company with approximately 12 hours to prepare ily on GPS technology, geocach- only contain a log book, small for their respective mission. Each STX scenario included local nationals ers must develop strong skills in caches (peanut butter jar) that as friendly elements and opposing forces (OPFOR). terrain analysis to successfully fi nd hold small tradable items, medium The casualty evacuation was supported with UH-60 Blackhawk heli- challenging geocaches. Geocache caches(ammo cans) which can copters from the Wisconsin National Guard 1-147th Assault Helicopter coordinates are reported in degrees hold larger items, to large caches Battalion located in Madison, Wis. THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 31 Drill Sergeants, United Blood Services unite to give back to Acadiana

By 1st Lt. Lance Landreneau 1/378th, 1st Brigade 98th Training Division (IET) LAFAYETTE, La. — The 1/378th Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET) teamed up with the United Blood Services on Satur- day morning to host a community blood drive at their United States Army Reserve Center in Lafayette. Through a combined effort, the blood mobile was able to collect 11 pints of blood that will be used in the future by local people in need. “I gave blood because I want to help save lives,” said Spc. Tesa Corm- ier, a Soldier with the 1/378th Regt. “I know there are people out there counting on us to donate and I just wanted to do my part.” This event was also a great op- portunity for local residents to come to a reserve center and talk Lt. Col. Rodney Sanchez, commander of the 1-378 Regt. (BCT) located in Lafayette, La., watches as Ike Melancon, a phlebotomist with United Blood Services, prepares to draw his blood. Photo by 1st Lt. Lance Landreneau, 1/378th, 1st Bde, 98th Training Division (IET) to service members about what it takes to join and become a drill ser- the parking lot and would stop to geant in the U.S. Army. give blood and ask about joining Top “Military Friendly School” “We had multiple inquiries Sat- the Army.” – G.I. Jobs urday about joining the Army,” said The unit looks forward to doing Sgt. 1st Class Andrea Jeffers, the resi- this again in the future and plans to dent Army Reserve Career Coun- team up with other local units hop- selor. “People would just see us, our ing to make a permanent impact in posters or see our drill sergeants in the community. Honor. Duty. Education. You have served your country through your military service. Now let us serve you. Prepare for the next phase of your life by earning your college degree at Western Carolina University.

military.wcu.edu | 866.928.4723 tel | [email protected] 32 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 Plan for an uneventful winter

By Chris Black hem at bay. As winter approaches, live in challenging winter climates, with friends. Remember to assess Safety Office, 108th Training Command (IET) it is important to prepare yourself, ensure you put a Winter Survival your situation before heading out As we enter the winter months, your vehicles, and your home for Kit in your car that includes blan- and identify options for getting here are some helpful safety tips for the extreme challenges the winter kets, water, food, warm clothes to home safely. Designate a non-drink- Soldiers, civilians and their Family season can bring. include hat and gloves, fi rst aid kit, ing friend and give them the keys, members to ensure everyone has a Effective planning and prepa- waterproof matches, ice scraper, pre-arrange a taxi service or have safe and uneventful season. As the ration will ensure you and your booster cables, sand or kitty litter, the number of a local cab company seasons change, so do the hazards. Family are prepared for whatever shovel, fl ashlight, emergency road programmed in your phone. Always There are a signifi cant number of Mother Nature has in store for us kit, can of Fix-A-Flat, and refl ective use the buddy system and remem- safety challenges that can present this year. Always plan and prepare vest. In addition, always keep the ber to rotate the designated driver themselves due to falling tempera- for the worst weather conditions tank full to reduce condensation throughout the holiday seasons. tures and increased holiday activi- possible in your area. Ensure dur- and possible ice in the tank or fuel When throwing a party, plan ahead ties that can negatively impact you ing the fall, you have your vehicle line. Preparation in the fall and ear- and be a responsible host. Ensure on road, around the house, and out- serviced, radiator inspected, fl uids ly winter could be a lifesaver if the guests leave sober or with a sober doors. Hopefully, the “best practic- levels checked and wipers and tires unthinkable breakdown or traffi c designated driver or call a cab for es” highlighted here will assist you checked for serviceability. Since delay occurs. your guests without a ride. If you and your Family in keeping may- many members of the command Driving can be a serious chal- are out on your own and know lenge as we enter the winter you are drinking, stay with the host months. Remember as the weather until you have sobered up or call a gets colder, ice and snow will criti- friend or taxi for a safe ride. Driving cally impact your daily commutes after drinking is not an option and and weekend travels. When deal- is an extremely risky behavior that “This is the only endorsement of its ing with ice and snow remember can have adverse consequences for kind ever conferred by the National BACHELOR OF SCIENCE to decrease speed and leave plenty everyone involved. Be honest with Golf Course Owners Association of room for stopping. Always wear yourself and remember that even a and was only given after much GOLF ENTERPRISE your seat belt and keep your head- slight “buzz” can signifi cantly weak- consideration. We all believe lights and windshield clean. Re- en your perception and abilities. that UW-Stout is a perfect match MANAGEMENT In addition, statistics clearly illus- for this program because of its move excessive snow or ice before starting your commute or trip. Plan trate that home fi res increase dur- hospitality programs, the excellent Online your trip ahead; let someone know ing the holidays and winter season customer service offerings, the It’s about the business of golf. emphasis on applied learning and your route and when you arrive due to lack of attention and failure the distance learning capability.” safely. Use Travel Risk Planning Sys- to follow basic safety practices. Es- tem (TRiPs) at hppts://safety.army. tablish a fi re escape plan for your Mike Hughes mil to include your supervisor in home with two exits and conduct Executive Director, your travel planning. In addition, fi re drills with your Family. Ensure NGCOA watch the weather to ensure your everyone knows how and when to route is clear and no major winter use a fi re extinguisher and keep an storms are approaching that could all-purpose fi re extinguisher in your impact your outing. Remember to kitchen. Never leave items cook- be especially careful on bridges, ing on the stove unattended in the overpasses and infrequently trav- kitchen. When cooking with a deep eled roads which will freeze fi rst as fryer review safety precautions be- conditions turn icy. Finally, reduce fore getting started or lighting the your speed to conditions and drive burner. Check fi re alarms and install defensively. Carbon Monoxide detectors in your COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT The winter months are full of home and have your heating sys- www.uwstout.edu/programs/bsgem/online | 800.992.5291 holidays that create opportunities tem inspected annually to ensure it for us to drink socially and gather is operating correctly. Remember to include fi re prevention in all your holiday plans and activities. Finally, due to reduced visibility and the challenging driving con- ditions winter weather can cre- ate; we must maintain situational awareness as pedestrians. When out walking around remember to ap- ply the following pedestrian safety tips to avoid becoming a statistic. It is important to never assume driv- ers can see you or will be able to stop. Always make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you. “Look before you leap” and please do not take a walk signal or a cross- walk for granted. Look both ways to ensure everyone is stopping for you because crossing safely is your responsibility. Hopefully these winter safety tips are helpful in allowing you to work and play safe this winter. For additional information on winter safety visit https://safety.army.mil or http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disas- ters/winter/. THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 33 Chaplains Corner... Refl ections

By Chaplain (Maj.) Ann Tang because it is not always within our beautiful butterfl y. 108th Training Command (IET) power to manage the change we In the coming months, we will Greetings from the chaplain’s of- experience. welcome the new HHC command- fi ce. Change does not come easy. We er, participate in a change of As I enter my second year as have patterns in life: house rules, command for our com- the 108th Training Command AGR traffi c patterns, family traditions, manding gener- Chaplain, it’s hard to imagine how ethnic or religious practices, and al, Maj. Gen. quickly the time has passed. Fall is of course, military rules and regula- Robert Stall, here already. In view of this, I have tions. We are all surrounded by and and experi- some thoughts to share. Like all familiar with these. Change brings ence retire- other sections in the command, the us to an unfamiliar realm that some- ments and chaplain’s offi ce is also dealing with times scares us, makes us uncom- others per- change. fortable. Yet change brings new sonnel move- First, the deputy command chap- chances and opportunities. Like a ments. May God’s lain’s position is fi lled by Chaplain seed, if it is not deep in the soil, not strength and wisdom (Maj.) Charles Phillips, who is no absorbing the nutrients, the water, carry us through these stranger to the command. He was it will not take root. Like a cater- changes. the brigade chaplain at the 2nd Bri- pillar, if it is not willing to enter Blessings to y’all, Chap- gade, 98th Training Division (IET), the cocoon, it will never become a lain Tang. before he transferred to take re- sponsibility of the Engineer Com- mand in Charleston, S.C. (his assign- ment before coming to our HQ). Second, all three of the chaplain candidates who have been with us for over a year or so have fi nished the Chaplain Offi cers Basic Lead- ership Course. Two of these chap- lain candidates have already acces- sioned as USAR chaplains. Third, our AGR chaplain assis- tant, Sgt. 1st Class Mark Wiggins has completed his BA degree in Busi- ness Administration this past May. Congratulations, Sgt. 1st Class Wig- gins! Fourth, as you may already know from the last issue of the Griffon, our NCOIC, Master Sgt. Katrina Todd, will be retiring around the fi rst of the year after 20 years of military service. With changes come opportuni- ties just as the changing of the sea- sons. As I am writing this article, the weather is cooler; the leaves are changing colors; daylight is growing shorter; hunting season will begin; and soon Daylight Saving Time will end and we will fall back an hour. Of course, many of us are looking forward to the arrival of Daylight Saving Time giving us an extra hour of sleep. The Bible states that there are seasons and things change accord- ing to these seasons. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, it says, “There is a time for ev- erything and a season for every ac- tivity under heaven” (New Interna- tional Version). We live in a world of change. James 3:6 talks about the changes that occur every day and every year. Nature seems to turn as a wheel as we move from one season to the next. How this world is changing - sometimes from one extreme to the other. No matter how one wants to predict and prepare for change, just like the weather forecast, there is always a chance of the unexpected. Every change concerns us, not just because of the time and season, but 34 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012

for eligible personnel who live out- refreshments and other incidentals no longer needed. We also print G1 side commuting distance and who that the hotel may charge for ser- a multitude of documents and Payment of Additional Train- are approved by the commander vices provided or used. reports on our printers at our Re- ing Assemblies (ATAs) for to participate in this program. The serve Centers and at home. It’s of- Electronic Based Distribution For Units: program is also subject to fund ten diffi cult to determine if a docu- Learning (EBDL) Courses 1. Appoint a primary and alter- availability. ment or report is FOUO or needs to Soldiers can now receive com- nate LIK Program Coordinator on an additional duty appoint- be shredded because it contains PII. pensation for some distance learn- For best security control mea- ing (DL) courses they are required The LIK program: ment memorandum 1. Is a tool for commanders to 2. Create and maintain a unit, bat- sures, adopt a “Just Shred It” policy. to take. Army Directive 2010-06 All units have shredders located authorized compensation for the take care of Soldiers and re- talion or brigade LIK Program cruit and retain them from a Coordinator’s Battle Book. at the USAR Centers that meet the successful completion of electronic requirements for properly destroy- based distributed learning (EBDL) larger geographical area. These battle books contain 2. Allows Soldiers not within nor- specifi c information as out- ing PII. Our unit shredders are also coursework. The 108th Training available for items that are printed Command (IET) has reallocated mal commuting distance to at- lined in the 108th Training tend Battle Assembly without Command’s Memorandum of or received at home. We all receive some of its RMA funds to ATA funds mail every day that contains our for eligible EBDL courses. Here PII. It can be a utility bill, a preap- is who is eligible, how to request proved credit card application, or a compensation and how to pay Sol- bank statement. Place these mail- diers that earn compensation. ings and printings from our home First, commanders must direct, in computers in a bag or box and writing, Soldiers to complete EBDL Soldier’s bring them in to the next Battle training, citing availability of funds. Assembly. Units, Soldiers and their Soldiers in the grades of E1 to E6, families should all embrace “Just W1 to W2 and O1 to O3 are eligible Shred It” and shred anything that for this compensation. The courses may have our PII on it. must attain unit readiness and be listed on the approved course list in AR Pay Message 12-07. Soldiers G7 must complete the course before receiving payment. Payment for par- SSD. ALARACT 216-2012, (Struc- tial completion is NOT authorized. Gold Mine tured Self Development (SSD) Soldiers will be compensated 1 Prerequisite for NCOES) ATA for every 8 hours of complet- Nuggets to keep you informed The Army has changed the effec- ed EBDL coursework but may not tive date for SSD to become a Pre- receive payment for more than 12 requisite for NCOES. The changes ATAs during the fi scal year (1 Oct incurring lodging costs. Instruction. are as follows: - 30 Sep). RMAs cannot be used to 3. Will encourage and promote 3. Select lodging facilities and en- Effective 1 Apr 13, Structured Self compensate Soldiers for course- additional opportunities for sure that competition is used Development 1 (SSD-1) is a Pre- work if a Soldier uses all 12 ATAs career progression for Soldiers in the local area. requisite to attend Warrior Leader during the fi scal year. Soldiers must outside of their local geograph- 4. Validate lodging requests, Course (WLC). attach a DA Form 87, certifi cate ical area. ensure compliance with the Effective 1 Jun 13, Structured Self of completion, or ATRRS printout 4. Does not authorize payment 108th TC MOI and government Development 3 (SSD-3) is a Pre- showing course completion to a for meals. lodging rates. requisite to attend Senior Leader 5. Verify and Pay lodging expens- DA Form 1380 and submit it to For Soldiers: Course (SLC). es. their unit administrators to receive So, who is eligible? Soldiers in Effective 1 Jun 13, Structured Self compensation. the rank of E9 and below who live When can LIK be used: Development 4 (SSD-4) is a Pre- Unit administrators will pay ATAs outside the 50-mile commuting The LIK program is only used for requisite to attend Sergeant Major using ADARS in the RM module of radius, and Soldiers in the rank of Inactive Duty Training and all MU- Course (SMC). RLAS as drill type 41and input the COL/CW5 and below who live out- TAs. The number of lodging nights Effective 1 Jan 15, Structured Self ATA date using the date of course side the 75-mile commuting radius authorized is based on the follow- Development 5 (SSD-5) is a Prereq- completion. They must use the are eligible to participate in this ing: uisite for a Nominative Assignments. dates immediately prior to the program. This program is adminis- 1. MUTA 2 or 3 - one night lodg- course completion date that do not ing APFT. ALARACT 232-2012 (Re- tered by the battalion utilizing the tention of Army Physical Fit- confl ict with other paid military unit government purchase card 2. MUTA 4 or 5 - two nights lodg- ing ness Test and Initiation of duty if the Soldier earns multiple (GPC) wherever possible. ATAs for completion of an ap- 3. MUTA 6 or 7 - three nights Baseline Soldier Physical Read- proved course. How do I participate: lodging iness Study) Soldiers may complete Com- Each Soldier must complete a 4. MUTA 8 - four nights lodging An independent assessment mander approved EBDL course Soldier’s Statement of Understand- For question regarding this program, conducted by the Army did not work at any location, including but ing and it must be renewed once a contact your Unit LIK Program Coordina- endorse the proposed fi ve events not limited to US Army Reserve year. Once approved by the com- tor. Physical Readiness Test (PRT). It Centers, Digital Training Facilities, mander to participate in this pro- found that the proposed fi ve events other public computer use facili- gram, Soldiers complete a Soldier G2 (Push Ups, Sit Ups, Shuttle Run, Lodging Request. A Soldier Lodg- Long Jump and the 1.5 mile run) ties, and their residence. The effec- JUST SHRED IT!!! tive date of this policy is 1 October ing Request is completed for EACH did not measure adequately Sol- The purpose of this article is to 2012. Compensation for courses month by the Soldier who intends dier’s performance of warrior task inform our Soldiers how to protect completed prior to 1 Oct 12 is not to participate. Soldiers will lodge and battle drills. As a result of this themselves, and others, against authorized. two-to-a-room per gender/rank, assessment the Army has decided identity theft. In the Department Contact your unit administrator if without exception; males with to continue to assess Soldier’s in- of Defense, we attach terms and ac- you have any questions. males, females with females, offi - dividual physical fi tness using the cers with offi cers and enlisted with ronyms to unclassifi ed information current three events APFT until enlisted. like Controlled Unclassifi ed Infor- further notifi cation. Additionally, G1 mation (CUI), Sensitive But Unclas- TRADOC will reinstitute the Master What is NOT paid for in the sifi ed (SBU), For Offi cial Use Only The Lodging-In-Kind Program Fitness Trainer Course in order to LIK program: (FOUO) and Personally Identifi able provide Commanders at all levels The Lodging-In-Kind (LIK) Pro- Travel reimbursement, per diem Information (PII). Most of us know with fi tness advisors for their units. gram is going through some transi- and additional charges incurred that all of this information should TRADOC began his Pilot Master Fit- tions this year. It will be managed while staying at the hotel are not be shredded. ness Training Course back in August by the 108th Training Command included. Additions charges not re- We maintain copies of Regula- 2012 and USARC will follow start- G-1 and is also being expanded to imbursable include, but are not lim- tions, Field Manuals, Circulars, etc. ing summer 2013. cover some additional grades this ited to pay-per-view movies, local at our Reserve Centers. All of these year. LIK covers the lodging costs and long distance phone charges, must be properly destroyed when PME. Army Directive 2012-20 THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 35

(Physical Fitness and Height/ does not necessarily take prece- money in attorney fees and court by investing some money now in Weight Requirements for Pro- dence over all things. Every Sol- costs. having an attorney set up a trust in fessional Military Education dier should check every account Second, changing benefi ciaries the child’s name. The advantage to (PME) for designations of a benefi ciary is not complicated. Many of these setting up a trust is that it gives you On September 17, 2012, The Army (the person who will automatically benefi ciary forms are available control even after your death by released Army Directive 2012-20 receive the money in the account online or available with a phone setting restrictions or qualifi ers be- (Physical Fitness and Height/Weight should the Soldier die). Accounts call. To name a new benefi ciary, all fore the child gets the money. One requirements for Professional such as IRAs, 401(k)s, insurance you will need is the person’s birth popular example is setting a mini- Military Education). The document policies (e.g. SGLI) and annuities – date and, sometimes, Social Secu- mum age (30 years old) or even states that Soldiers prior to enroll are not controlled by the decisions rity Number. As any good Soldier requires distribution upon comple- and attend a PME school must in your will. Those things “pass” knows, make copies of any form tion of college. comply with the Army’s APFT and outside of your will, so even if you you submit and request confi rma- Fourth, it is important to know Height and Weight standards. Any wrote your ex-spouse out of your tion. Store a master list of accounts retirement accounts can have var- Soldiers that are not in compliance fi nal will and estate years ago he or and benefi ciaries with the rest of ied rules on inheritances. With with APFT and H/W standards will she would still get your IRA or oth- your estate documents so that your 401(k)s and IRAs, there are some not be eligible to enroll or attend er retirement accounts if you never executor (the person who adminis- advantages to naming a spouse any PME school until compliance changed its benefi ciary. The lesson ters you last wishes) can track this over a child. Your spouse can “roll is met. is to review these fi nancial choices information down. over” such accounts into his or her periodically, especially after a birth, Third, if you do select a minor own name, thus delaying distribu- divorce, or other major life event. as a benefi ciary then it will also tions and taxes until the age of G8 Also, do not make the mistake of involve probate which is costly 70½ and saving money. But if you In order to support the Army leaving benefi ciary forms blank. Ac- and time consuming. In most state allow your child to directly inherit, Audit Readiness initiative, Soldiers counts then go to probate court for jurisdictions, a court is required to he must start taking distributions must ensure that proper documen- distribution, and rules on who gets oversee the distribution of money and paying tax to Uncle Sam the tation is included with all Defense what vary by state. In addition, the left to children (under 18 years of Travel System (DTS) vouchers. In distribution is delayed and may cost age). You can avoid probate court see NUGGETS page 36 keeping with this policy, a PDF copy of the itinerary with airline receipt must be included with at- tached receipts. Whenever you travel and commercial air costs were incurred, you must maintain and upload your Virtually There e- Invoices to DTS. The DoD FMR Vol- ume 9, Chapter 5 requires attach- ment of this documentation. In keeping with the new Army policy effective 1 October, 2012, DTS reservations for airline tickets now require 72 hours advance scheduling to ensure a ticket can be purchased. Please ensure that all travel is scheduled far enough in advance to meet this new require- ment.

From the Staff Judge Advocate It is SRP time at Battle Assem- bly. It is more of just “checking the blocks” at the variety of tables around the building. You want to get it knocked out so you can get out the door and spend some time We serve the military and their families. It’s what with your family before you go we do. It’s who we are. That’s why we provide down range. One of those stops the quality products and superior member is by the JAG’s table. You need a service you deserve. With thousands of free power of attorney for your spouse, ATMs,* 24/7 phone support, and convenient and you did a will a few years ago, so you are good to go. Your estate online and Mobile Banking,** we have the plan is set in the event the unthink- benefi ts of membership you deserve. able occurs and you leave a spouse and children with something to work with. Are you sure? Your estate plan is not complete if your fi nancial accounts (insur- ance, retirement plans, investments, etc.) have out-of-date benefi ciaries listed. In one recent case, a lawsuit was fi led against a deceased par- ent’s pension plan for money that ARMY should have been paid to the child, MARINE CORPS JOIN TODAY! NAVY not the mother - who was still navyfederal.org 1.888.842.6328 listed as the sole benefi ciary even AIR FORCE though the mother forfeited rights DoD to his pension in their divorce. Had the decedent done the following, Federally insured by NCUA. *There are no fees for members who use their Navy Federal Visa® Check Card at CO-OP and MoneyPass® networks, in addition to California Walgreens. **Message and the mess and expense would have data rates may apply. App StoreSM is a service mark of Apple, Inc. Android™ is a trademark of Google, Inc. Image used for representational purposes only; does not imply government endorsement. © 2012 Navy Federal NFCU 11941-winter (10-12) been avoided. First, remember that your will 36 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012

leaders, there’s absolutely no doubt If you need further assistance with please contact your Command Chaplain Nuggets about that,” Stidley said. “Any leader signing up for a Strong Bonds event Offi ce. Continued from page 35 who willfully disregards the stan- fi rst year after your death. In ad- dards he enforces on his Soldiers is dition, do not list your “estate” (a a terrible example and shouldn’t be non-person) as benefi ciary. If you leading in the fi rst place.” do, your heirs then must empty the The KTS campaign is themed account within fi ve years by law, around the idea that someone al- Do you want to be a which could cost them gains on in- ways knows when a Soldier is at vestments (more money) and move risk for an accident — whether them into a higher tax bracket it’s the Soldier, his battle buddies (more money to Uncle Sam). or his leaders. Intervention can be Unit Public Affairs Finally, you should you pick a diffi cult, but it’s often the only way contingent benefi ciary (a “back to take action before a troubled up”) for those accounts. If your Soldier’s life ends in tragedy. Each Representative? primary benefi ciary dies before you of the four seasonal campaigns will and you forget to update with a fall under the larger KTS umbrella. new benefi ciary, the account goes Edens encouraged all members of to time consuming and costly pro- the Army Family to visit the USACR/ bate court. Having a contingent Safety Center home page, https:// benefi ciary also gives the primary safety.army.mil, for more informa- benefi ciary the option to execute a tion on KTS and the schedule of “qualifi ed disclaimer,” which passes seasonal safety campaign releases. the inheritance to the contingent “Safety has to be an imperative without gift taxation by Uncle Sam. in our formations,” he said. “These Don’t want your intended heirs campaigns are one way leaders can to have to chase after their money? make that happen, but tools are just Better make sure they’re listed on tools until someone puts them into your fi nancial accounts. action. LTC Bobby Don Gifford is the Staff “Remember that every product Judge Advocate for the 95th Training we release is just a baseline — lead- Division ers can tailor them to their own unique needs. The important thing is getting the information out there Safety to your Soldiers.” Know the signs, save Soldiers’ lives Chaplain By Julie Shelley As the 108th Training Command (IET) continues to grow, it Strategic Communication Directorate How to Register for a Strong will be diffi cult for the Public Affairs Staff to visit each brigade, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Bonds Event battalion and company to cover news events. Public Affairs is Fort Rucker, Ala. the responsibility of commanders and Soldiers alike. Many have asked how to register The PAO is kicking off the Unit Public Affairs Program The Army is changing the way for a Strong Bonds Event. Below (UPAR), which will allow any Soldier to be the additional eyes leaders, Soldiers and safety pro- is a simple step by step on how and ears for your unit and the PAO. By volunteering you will as- fessionals receive seasonal safety to sign up for an event. Please be sume the duties of UPAR as an additional duty. information, and also asking that advised the Regional Support Com- Do you enjoy taking pictures? Do you enjoy writing? As a everyone keep their eyes open for mand (RSC) will have the fi nal ap- Unit Public Affairs Representative (UPAR) you will take pictures the signs they or their buddy might proval of your request. be at risk of an accident. of newsworthy events and submit them along with stories to The Army Safe Autumn Campaign, 1. Go to www.strongbonds.org your Division Public Affairs Offi cer for review and possible sub- launching Sept. 4, will be the fi rst 2. Login to site- The login link mission in The Griffon, as well as your division web site. of four seasonal installments in this is located in the upper right redesign, and additionally serves hand corner of the page. If Are You? as the kickoff for the overarching you have not registered for Familiar with your organization “Know the Signs” safety awareness this site you will be prompted Independent & dependable effort. to register. You will have to us Able to communicate well “No Soldier comes into the Army your AKO email address. Are You Able To? without certain expectations,” said 3. Once you are logged in click • Publicize unit participation in community projects or ac- Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Edens, director the tab “EVENT” than click tivities. of Army Safety and commanding “FIND AN EVENT.” • Serve as the public affairs point of contact for your unit. general, U.S. Army Combat Readi- 4. Select “Army Reserve.” • Maintain contact with the 108th Training Command (IET) ness/Safety Center. “Likewise, the 5. Select which event you want Public Affairs Offi ce Army has its own expectations, to attend. chiefl y that Soldiers will abide by 6. Find the event you are looking Soldiers should contact their division Public Affairs Offi cer their training and standards and act to attend. Please be advised for additional info: in a disciplined manner 24/7. Un- you can only attend an event 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Offi cer — Cpt. Jen- fortunately, we’re seeing that some within the RSC you reside in. nifer Cotten Soldiers don’t believe training, dis- 7. Review the information than [email protected] cipline or standards apply off duty.” click “Register” at the bottom Just shy of the end of fi scal 2012, of the page. 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Offi cer — Vacant the majority of the 103 Soldier 8. Please fi ll out the information 104th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Offi cer — Maj. deaths occurring off duty have the form is requesting. Alex Johnson been attributed to indiscipline, es- 9. After you complete this above [email protected] pecially regarding privately owned form. You will receive addi- Or contact SSG Andrea Smith at [email protected]. vehicle and motorcycle fatalities. A tional information from the mil, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs NCOIC, Mrs. number of leaders at the rank of E5 RSC. They will send you a Deborah Williams at [email protected], or and above have been involved in RFO for your fi rst line super- Lt. Col. Chris Black at [email protected], 108th fatal accidents attributed to indis- visor or Commander to sign, Training Command (IET) Public Affairs Offi cer or phone 704- cipline, a fact that alarms USACR/ vital information concerning 227-2820 ext. 4087 for more information. Safety Center Command Sgt. Maj. DTS, and what you need to get Rick Stidley. travel for your spouse and fam- “Young Soldiers look up to their ily as needed. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT SECTION Happy Holidays from The Griffon

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Military Transitional Resources

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Blogs • Articles • Videos Career Advice Resumé Tips Career Fairs Hot Jobs For Military Top Military Employers Joining Forces Info Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 39

MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES Transportation: Moving Soldiers From Transition to Careers

By Al Hanley, III commercial vehicle license and ap- life insurance, and According to the Army’s Train- propriate endorsements for more retirement plans. ing and Doctrine Command (TRA- than jobs; they can create careers. First year team driv- DOC), each year 80,000 to 100,000 Why is transportation an ex- ers can earn more skilled soldiers will transition to cellent industry for transition- than $50,000 per preferences, soldiers who transition civilian life. Other reports estimate ing troops? year along with to transportation can choose local, one million military personnel will As an industry, transportation is those other benefi ts. No relocation is necessary. regional, or over the road routes. transition over the next four years, growing. Nearly every commod- Other transportation career options making the job market all the more ity in this country is hauled either Transportation presents choic- competitive. In fact, today’s sluggish locally, regionally or over-the-road. es. Depending on their needs and (see TRANSPORTATION page 40) economy can make a job -- any job Whether trucked from ports to -- seem more important than a ca- distribution centers or from plants reer path. Despite the slow recov- to shelves, transportation literally ery, there are industries that value drives our economy. Recent reports the acquired skills of professional estimate a need for 400,000 com- soldiers and offer them genuine op- mercial drivers in the coming years portunities. as demand grows and older drivers Ground Transportation, a mar- retire. ket segment with annual revenues Transportation offers real re- of more than $300 Billion, is one wards. Depending upon the school, of those industries. Regardless of troops can be licensed and certifi ed a candidate’s military occupation- commercial drivers in a few weeks al specialty (MOS), transportation or up to six months. As fi rst year employers value the training, work solo drivers, they can expect to ethic and discipline developed earn $35,000 to $45,000 annually through military service. Troops re- with good benefi ts, including paid turning to civilian life can choose a vacations and holidays, medical and 40 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.com

MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES

Transportation fers entrepreneurial opportuni- the means to own and grow a busi- tionship with military personnel. ties. Troops in transportation are in ness. Years of service: it’s about the (Continued from page 39) the proverbial driver’s seat of their How does a soldier transi- school’s heritage. How long have include owner operator, driver own futures. Some 70 percent of tion into transportation? they offered commercial driver’s trainer or positions inside the cor- trucking companies operate six Determine the license and en- license training? Avoid schools that porate terminal, including supervis- trucks or less. Many of the trucking dorsement requirements in your ing or working in: logistics, recruit- companies now on the Top 100 list have arisen around changes in the state and what best suits you. Since ment, administration, and security began as a small one- or two- truck GI bill or that do not have a license the enactment of the Commercial divisions. operation. Transportation offers a or established reputation. Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, The transportation industry of- steady career – and more. It offers Recognition: look for licenses, federal law sets the minimum li- approvals, certifi cations or accredi- censing standards. States imple- tation from government agencies ment and regulate licensing. Com- (Department of Veterans Affairs, De- mercial licenses are divided into partment of Defense, Department three classes, A, B and C. Work with of Motor Vehicles, Department of a knowledgeable career or school Education) and professional asso- counselor to match the right li- cense to your goals. ciations (Better Business Bureau, Select the commercial driv- trucking associations, etc.). ing school that meets your needs. References and guidance: talk There’s more to it than convenient to your ACAP counselors or Base schedules. When choosing a com- transition team. Choose a school mercial driving school consider that makes personal advisors or these factors: counselors available to you and Claims and qualifi cations: caters to your goals. Ask about suc- pay attention to enrollment and cess stories; talk to graduates or graduation rates; instructor(s) expe- read about them online. rience and certifi cation; and rela- Comprehensiveness: while CDL training prepares students for licensing requirements, an effective job training program readies them for success. Of course, you want to choose a commercial driving pro- gram that prepares you to meet the federal minimum standards and the requirements for your state. It’s also important to choose a program that goes above and beyond. Look for a school offering courses that will support your success. For example, instruction in maintaining logbooks can help you meet employer re- quirements and assist you in work- ing most effi ciently to earn the most you can. Established timeframe: the program you choose should make start and completion dates clear – and they should stick to them. Too often students enroll only to discov- er they cannot complete required courses because class size is limited or schedules are restricted. ® Go Into Business with The Grounds Guys Financial obligations: if you qualify for the GI Bill, look for pro- grams that will help you apply for ® The Grounds Guys is one of the hottest new franchise concepts your eligibility so you get it right for military veterans. If you’re looking for a chance to build a the fi rst time. If not, ask about other business, lead others and work outdoors, The Grounds Guys® available assistance. Look out for may be your answer. training programs offered by haul- ing companies. If they offer ‘free The Grounds Guys® is a professional landscaping and lawn training’ but require two years of maintenance franchise with approximately 100 locations throughout service upon completion, what happens if you want to take a posi- the U.S. & Canada and over 20 years of landscaping experience. tion with another company? Contact us today and Placement assistance: deter- ask about our VetFran mine what, if any, career assistance they offer. You should be pre-hired discount and franchise before you begin training. Look for opportunities in your area. established relationships with sev- eral employers, not a feeding farm 888.205.0661 • www.groundsguysfranchise.com for one or two operations. When (see TRANSPORTATION page 46) Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 41 42 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.com

MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES Adjusting to civilian life after the transition

By Make The Connection you return to the same position you entered, and changed the way at the same time I feel some insta- www.maketheconnection.net with the same responsibilities? Will you look at things and deal with bility. Without the structure, order, Returning to civilian life presents your colleagues understand what people. If you were in combat or and camaraderie I had with my new opportunities as well as chal- you’ve been through and welcome experienced stressful or traumatic unit, I felt exposed. It was a bumpy lenges for Veterans. Many Veterans you back? situations during your time in the road back but the Vet Center has re- look forward to life after the mili- Your experiences in the ser- military, you may have devel- ally helped me adjust.” tary, because they can spend more vice — both positive and oped habits that helped As you adjust to your transition time with family and friends and no negative — may have you cope in those situ- from the military, you may: longer have to worry about military made you a differ- ations, but could be • Feel uncomfortable with the structure or being deployed. At the ent person than misunderstood or lack of structure and goals same time, transitioning to civilian you were before problematic in civil- compared to military life life may lead to a lot ian life. • Miss the adrenaline of physical of questions. You “I defi nitely have and life-challenging situations may wonder a lot more free- • Worry about your fi nances what you are dom in civil- • Push yourself to be perfect in going to do ian life work and other areas of your with this new but life phase of your • Become annoyed with others life, or if you who seem more easy-going or will be able to less detail-oriented than you fi nd a job. You may • Feel isolated and alone, as think about going back if no one understands you to school but not know There are steps you can where to start. Or, you may miss take to help you cope with the order and discipline of military the challenges you may face life compared to civilian life and during your military to civilian wonder if you will be able to adjust. transition. A healthy lifestyle can If you are a member of the Na- go a long way to helping you stay tional Guard or Reserves, you may physically and emotionally fi t and be worried about transitioning back into a civilian workplace. Will (see TRANSITION page 44)

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44 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com

MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES

healthy meals Transition • Practice relaxation techniques, (Continued from page 42) such as deep breathing improve your overall well-being. • Recognize that others may not What should I keep an eye always agree with you or un- out for after transitioning from derstand your military service; service? agree to disagree Most Veterans go through some • Be prepared for insensitive period of adjustment while transi- questions or topics of conver- tioning to civilian life, but ultimate- sation; practice how to respond ly fi nd their new roles fulfi lling. ahead of time However, some people deal with • Respectfully decline to talk the transition in ways that make it about things that make you un- diffi cult to enjoy life or to be suc- comfortable cessful in the civilian world. Some • Have a plan of action for your Veterans experience the following: adjustment that includes a list “It’s unrealistic to think that of goals for your transition, those of us who have spent time in your future, and your personal the military can instantly readjust life to civilian life. Recognizing that was • Try to get a good night’s sleep very helpful for me as I was getting • Avoid unhealthy “quick fi xes” out.” that you think may help you • Frequently feeling on edge or cope, like drinking alcohol, tak- tense ing drugs, or smoking cigarettes • Diffi culty concentrating In addition, for National Guard • Anger or irritability members and Reservists, there are a • Trouble sleeping few things you can do to help ease • Feeling down for weeks or the transition back into your job: months • Contact your supervisor before Some of the challenges that you return to work and discuss come with transitioning from the what your responsibilities will military can be diffi cult, stressful, or be, changes in personnel, and put a strain on your relationships. new policies or projects You might fi nd it hard to enjoy the • Anticipate changes and be pa- things you usually like doing. You tient may be having a tough time dealing • Avoid taking charge and real- with the death of friends that you ize that your coworkers had to served with. Chronic pain or other take on some of your responsi- medical conditions may pose addi- bilities while you were away tional challenges. • Talk to other National Guard What can I do about issues members or Reservists to hear related to transitioning from how they’ve handled the transi- service? tion Going from something familiar, • Make sure you understand your like military life, to something new health coverage and get any and different can be challenging, benefi ts reinstated promptly but there are things you can do to Talking to your family and friends help you be successful. Remember about your experiences can be to: helpful as you deal with your tran- • Reach out to other Veterans or sition. They will get a better un- Veterans’ groups for social sup- derstanding of what you are going port through and may be able to pro- • Exercise regularly and eat vide you with support. Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 45

MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES

Take the Next Step – Make the connecting with: Connection • Your family doctor: Ask if your Every day, Veterans connect with doctor has experience treat- resources, services, and support ing Veterans or can refer you to that effectively address the issues someone who does impacting their lives. If transition- • A mental health professional, ing from service is interfering with such as a therapist or counselor your health and well-being or get- • Your local VA Medical Center or ting in the way of your relation- Vet Center: VA specializes in the ships, daily responsibilities, work care and treatment of Veterans or ability to study, you may want • A spiritual or religious advisor Why not Fix Jets? to reach out for support. Consider

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MILITARY TRANSITION RESOURCES

Transportation (Continued from page 40) you graduate you should be in a you can take career as far as you’d position to choose from multiple like. Get licensed, get driving! offers. Al Hanley, III is a principal of The Choose Transportation CDL School with classes in New York and Across the country, the industry Florida. In honor of its 50th anniversary, is hungry for qualifi ed drivers with The CDL School is expanding its recruit- the skills professional soldiers ac- ment of troops in transition, launching a quire in the service of our country. “Troops into Transportation” campaign. A career in transportation can be a If you have any questions about a career few short weeks away. Competitive in transportation or choosing the right salaries, paid benefi ts and no reloca- training program in your area, please tion are just a few of the short-term contact Al at 754-444-2354 (voice/sms) benefi ts. Once in the driver seat, or by e-mail at [email protected].

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Brian Ray of the Na- made perfect in weakness (2 Corin- 24 hours in a day, so time manage- Let’s face it: being a single parent tional Home Education Research thians 12:9). ment is a critical skill for single-par- intensifi es the challenges of home- Institute says his studies show that A support network is helpful for ent homeschoolers. any homeschooler, but particular- schooling. about two percent of homeschool- Just as the three most important ly crucial for single parents, who In many two-parent homeschool- ing families are headed by single factors in real estate are location, lo- lack the help and sounding board ing families, the dad takes primary parents, but it is his opinion that cation, location, the three most im- of a spouse. Be involved in a local responsibility for earning the living this fi gure probably underrepre- portant tasks for single parents are sents the true number. church, and ask folks there to pray prioritize, prioritize, prioritize. and the mom takes primary respon- for you. Seek out a homeschooling sibility for educating the children. I have been homeschooling for Learn to say “no” to the good, in eight years — four of them as a support group in your area. Nur- order to say “yes” to the best. Limit The labor is divided and the sup- ture godly friendships. I frequently port is multiplied. Although there single mom. The number-one ques- outside commitments. Too many tion people ask me (usually with consult a few close friends about extracurricular activities can crash are also many two-parent families choices in training and educating where both parents contribute a breathless air of amazement) is a crowded schedule and steal pre- “How do you do it all?” my children and seek advice about cious family time. You don’t have to to the education and the fi nances business matters from fellow Chris- — often through a family business My answer comes in two parts: forego such opportunities entirely; One, I don’t, and two, I redefi ne it tian entrepreneurs who share my just be intentional and very selec- — a single parent is usually solely family-based priorities. responsible for both. The labor is all. tive. multiplied and the support is sub- Don’t Be a Lone Ranger You Have Only 24 Hours Routine tasks such as grocery tracted. None of us — single or married in Each Day shopping, going to the bank or post But the increasing number of — can homeschool relying on our Time is your most precious com- offi ce, and medical appointments single parents choosing to educate own power. But God’s grace is suf- modity. You can earn more money, can consume far too much time if their children at home testifi es that fi cient for us, for His strength is but you can never have more than you’re not careful. I’ve noticed that I feel most overwhelmed when I’m on the go too much. Try to consoli- date all errands that require leaving the house into one day a week. The concept of “opportunity cost” revolutionized my thinking about prioritizing. Every choice you make has a potential opportunity cost. Although this may seem coun- ter-intuitive to frugal homeschool- ers, spending an extra hour driving to several different stores to save $5.00 on groceries may not neces- sarily mean you saved $5.00. If by working that hour you could have earned $20.00, you actually lost $15.00 by “saving” $5.00. I reluc- tantly realized that the time I spent running around to yard sales every Saturday morning would be much better used earning income. Multi-tasking is one of my top survival secrets. This strategy works well for both parents and children. I start a load of laundry or dust a bookcase when I’m on the phone and pay bills or fi le papers dur- ing teleconferences. I have taught phonics lessons in doctors’ wait- ing rooms, explained basic business concepts in the emergency room, and discussed history and current events in the check-out line at the grocery store. My boys listen to tapes or watch educational videos while they fold laundry. We re- deem time in the car by listening to books on tape or reviewing math facts, spelling, or grammar rules. Make Homeschooling Work Be realistic in your expectations, particularly about how much time you can devote to direct instruction of your children. It simply may not be possible for your homeschool to match your highest goals, but you can still make it work. My ideal homeschooling scenario would in- clude hours of daily reading aloud to my children, discussing ideas at great length, intensive one-on- one tutoring, and so on, but the necessity of earning a living sim- ply precludes much of that. I relish HOMESCHOOL OPTIONS Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 49 building my own eclectic educa- the opportunity for each child to the week, on Friday night I’m all life and home business is available at tional program from scratch, but pursue his own special interests. theirs. www.HowDoYouDoItAll.com. it’s much more practical for me to Forrest’s passions are history and Mary Jo Tate educates her four sons This article fi rst appeared in the Sep- use at least some prepared curricu- business, Andrew is a scientist and at home in Mississippi, where she has a tember/October 2005 issue of Home- lum. I’ve learned to come up with mathematician, and Perry is a tal- home business as a writer, editor, and schooling Today and again in 2012 in a realistic educational plan that we ented artist. It’s a little early to tell book coach (http://www.WriteAGreat- Apologia World. For permission to reprint can actually implement rather than what Thomas (4) will specialize in Book.com). Her home study course on it, please contact Mary Jo through http:// wasting time fretting over the gap (demolition work, perhaps?), but powerful strategies for balancing family www.SingleParentsAtHome.com. between theory and practice. he’s spending a lot of time these It makes sense to teach children days drawing with Perry. together whenever possible. Skills You can delegate some instruc- such as math and phonics have to tion to older children. I take re- be taught at individual levels, of sponsibility for introducing new course, but most subjects can be concepts in math and phonics, for taught to multiple ages. We usu- example, but Andrew helps Perry ally begin our school time with review phonics fl ashcards, listens the whole family coming together to him practice reading aloud, and for Bible reading, prayer, Scripture instructs him on his map work. memorization, poetry, and classic Perry helps Thomas learn his letters literature. Then the boys split up and numbers and teaches him how for independent work and one-on- to draw simple fi gures. one instruction from me. You can also delegate to techno- Children of varying ages can all logical tutors, but be sure to keep study the same period of history, in mind the hazards of too much same topics in science, etc., with computer or video time. Forrest independent assignments at vary- and Andrew are currently learning ing levels of diffi culty. When we how to type with a computer-based studied American history, for exam- instruction program, and we’ll soon ple, we were involved in a weekly be adding computer-based foreign co-op where the boys did hands- language study. Audiotapes or CDs on activities and presented reports. can be great aids for reviewing During the week, Forrest (13) read math facts, history dates, and so on, high-school and adult-level history and recorded books can supple- books, Andrew (10) read interme- ment live read-aloud time. My boys diate-level books, and Andrew also enjoy listening to Diana Waring’s read easier books aloud to Perry history tapes and Jim Weiss’s sto- (8). rytelling tapes as they drift off to As soon as my children become sleep each night. competent readers, I encourage in- dependent learning. I would prefer Find Time for Fun a leisurely family-wide read-aloud Finally, don’t neglect to make time for history, for example, but time for fun as a family. Particularly most of the time it’s more practical when you work at home, it is dif- to have the boys read on their own fi cult to identify when your “work and use our time together to nar- day” is over. I know just how hard it rate, answer questions or discuss can be to pull away when deadlines what they have read. are looming and the electric bill is Learning to take responsibility due, but taking a break is good for for their own education teaches you as well as your children, and it children important skills that will can actually make your work time be useful in college and adult life. more effi cient. My boys know that Independent learning also offers no matter how busy I am during 50 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Sequoia’s 7th Annual Hero Appreciation Months

Every year, January through exceptions/limitations apply. plunge, enjoy some free hot clam preciation Months program. March, over 30 member businesses To start the year out right, you chowder and cocoa, courtesy of the That same evening, our Tulare in Three Rivers, Sequoia National might want to begin with the hilari- Gateway. County Symphony orchestra re- Park, and the surrounding gateway ous Polar Dip in the icy Kaweah Take a drive along the Gener- turns to the historic Fox Theatre communities honor our current River which takes place on Jan. als Highway into Sequoia National in nearby downtown Visalia to and former members of the Armed 1 right outside the Gateway Res- Park’s “Giant Forest,” park at the perform passionate and colorful Forces and Veterans with 20 per- taurant and Lodge in Three Rivers. Giant Forest Museum, and join a music from Carmen on a program cent off thank you discounts for At the Gateway, two forks of the Ranger-led snowshoe walk to see that celebrates the best loved of all three months — and you can enjoy Kaweah River meet and fl ow be- the huge cinnamon- French music. that discount for lodging, restau- neath a classic bridge with triple colored trunks of rants, services and products. A few arches built in the 1920s. After your the largest trees on earth rising above the snow. Some years, Mother Nature brings us more snow than others. No matter the year, these an- Sequoia Park Area Lodging at its Finest cient trees will fi ll your soul with their A Great Place for R&R strength, their endur- Deluxe Room and Suites • Free Wi Fi • Fitness Room • Sauna • Honeymoon Jacuzzi ance and their amaz- Suites Have an In-Room Jacuzzi and Fireplace • Microwaves and Refrigerators ing ability to survive Photo courtesy Jamie Kim Proud Sponsors and Participants in the Sequoia Foothills Chamber of Commerce’s Hero and adapt to what- Appreciation Months program. Call for your 20% discount available Jan.-March. ever Nature provides. For more in- formation, visit www.nps.gov/seki/ Comfort Inn & Suites- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park parknews/newsreleases.htm. in Three Rivers, Gateway to the Giant Sequoias Rent skis or snowshoes at Wuk- 40820 Sierra Drive • Three Rivers, CA 93271 800.331.2140 • 559.561.9000 • fax: 559.561.9010 sachi Village and set out to discover www.sequoiahotel.com • [email protected] the many wonders and awe-inspir- ing beauty of Sequoia National Park. In the hush of winter, experience the peace of the ancients. Discover ~ Explore ~ Enjoy We dare you to climb Moro Rock (weather-permitting), but be safe! We honor our military for the job that they do In the photo, the Rock is dry and and invite them to visit our military friendly the climber is tethered. destination for their R&R. However, by Saturday, Jan. 5, be The Sequoia Foothills Chamber’s annual sure that you head back in to Three Hero Appreciation Months Program (Jan.- Rivers, so you can enjoy our free all- March) gives our military and their families a 20% discount on lodging, retail, restaurants and services. town “1st Saturday” festival of food, fun and fabulous art; taking your • Camping and Hiking Explore the Tulare County emap, time, and exploring the Three Riv- • Snowshoe Walks the interactive guide to our county: ers Historical Museum with its out- http://www.tularecountyemap.com/ • Horseback Riding door Native American exhibits, ex- • Cross-Country Skiing • 9-Hole Golf Course ploring Reimer’s gourmet icecream 877-530-3300 • Boating, Fishing and and chocolate factory, and discov- Photo courtesy Jeri Burzin [email protected] other Water Sports ering the unique-item shops, art galleries, and art studios for which NEW to the Hero Appreciation This ad sponsored by Comfort Inn & Suites- Three Rivers. Three Rivers is justifi ably famous. Months program this year: Our sin- Then to enjoy our fi rst 2013 gle “Learn to Square Dance Party” Hero Appreciation Months event, has expanded to become a series return to the Park on Saturday, Jan. of four Learn-to-Square-Dance Par- 19 for our Snowman-building con- ties. With WWII Veteran and retired test. It is held in a lovely meadow professional caller Mark Robb call- right outside Wuksachi Lodge. Cou- ing the shots, these hilarious Parties ples and families work hard to build will be held on Wednesday nights their snowman, every family wins in February at the Three Rivers Vet- a prize, and free hot spiced cider is erans Memorial Building. served, courtesy of Wuksachi Lodge On the last Friday in March, we and the Sequoia Foothills Hero Ap- (see HEROES next page) TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 51 Unforgettable Family memories at Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla.— Imagine concerts than ever before is Man- nation featuring two theme parks, soar above Hogwarts with Harry cheerful holiday music fl oating on nheim Steamroller — the mas- three magnifi cently themed on-site Potter, swing above the streets with the brisk air. Children marveling ters of Christmas music with hotels and a nighttime entertain- Spider-Man, be transformed into a at giant, colorful balloons passing more than 40 million albums sold ment complex. It’s the only Orlan- banana-loving minion in the hilari- overhead. Laughter from the crowd worldwide. The acclaimed musi- do destination where you are not ous and heartwarming Despicable as The Grinch and the Whos share cal group will take to the Music just entertained — you become Me Minion Mayhem ride and help their timeless story live on stage. Plaza stage in Universal Studios part of the most exhilarating en- Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek Imagine families sharing the spirit eight times this year to play their tertainment ever created. You can 4-D. of the season together, experienc- memorable holiday hits for guests, ing exciting rides and attractions. performing on Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, There’s no better place to be for 16, 22 and 23. the holidays this year than Univer- The celebration continues at sal Orlando Resort. Universal Orlando’s three on- This Holidays event at Universal site hotels — Loews Portofi no Orlando Resort runs from Dec. 1 to Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Jan. 1 and offers guests incredible Loews Royal Pacifi c Resort — all entertainment themed for the sea- of which will glisten with holiday son at both its theme parks. decorations. Hotel guests will be At Universal Studios Florida, the immersed in the spirit of the sea- Macy’s Holiday Parade will fi ll the son with tree-lighting ceremonies, streets every evening with the special visits from Santa, holiday same iconic balloons seen winding “dive-in” movie presentations and through New York City. The parade holiday buffets and dining events. features colorful holiday characters, All holiday entertainment is in- fl oats, balloons and a tree-lighting cluded as part of 2-Park or Multi- ceremony by Santa Claus. day admission to Universal Studios FREE At Islands of Adventure, adults and Islands of Adventure. For more and children alike will be enter- information on Universal Orlan- tained when the popular Dr. Seuss do’s holiday celebration and of- book, “How the Grinch Stole Christ- fers, guests can visit www.Univer- 3-DAY mas,” is brought to life in Grinch- salOrlando.com/holidays. mas. Guests can see the heartwarm- Save on Multi-Day Tickets and PARK-TO-PARK TICKET* ing live stage show, “Grinchmas Vacation Packages on base at your Wholiday Spectacular,” starring Leisure Travel Services Offi ce with *Limit one (1) FREE ticket per active duty or retired military service member with valid Military ID. The Grinch and the Whos from valid identifi cation. For more infor- PLUS Family and Friends receive a 3rd day FREE Whoville with an original recorded mation, visit www.universalorlan- with the purchase of a 2-Day ticket** musical score by Mannheim Steam- do.com/military. ASK ABOUT GREAT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO® VACATION PACKAGES! roller. Guests will also have the op- portunity to meet The Grinch and Universal Orlando Resort Tickets Available on Base at Your the Whos, and on select dates, pur- There are many ways to enjoy chase a spot at a special character your Orlando vacation, but there Local Leisure Travel Services Office breakfast with the mean, green one is only one place where vacation himself. becomes adventure: Universal Or- Returning this year with more lando Resort. It is a unique desti-

Heroes you in Three Rivers and Sequoia Na- tional Park in 2013. (Continued from previous page) For information about these honor Armed Forces/Veterans and events and more, call 559-561-4270, **For purchase by ALL military personnel, installation employees, family & friends or anyone with military installation photo ID access. *, **Offers their families with refreshments, go to www.threerivers.com or e- expire March 31, 2013 and must be used by June 30, 2013, unused days will be forfeited. Additional restrictions apply. Full details available at the ITT/ LTS base office. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2012 Universal Studios. © 2012 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. 253907/1112/AT stories, and awards, at 7 p.m. at the mail [email protected]. Three Rivers Historical Museum located at 42268 Sierra Drive in Three Rivers, California. And we close out the 2013 He- Experience the Wonders of Wakulla R roes program with the ever-popular Picnic with Bathtub Race, which R& will be held at Lake Kaweah’s beau- r tiful “Kaweah Recreation Area” on fo Saturday March 30th from 11-4. be By Thanksgiving, you can check e to out the list of lodging facilities, Unspoiled by over-commercialized lac restaurants, service providers and al P retail outlets that are proud to of- attractions and devoid of a atur fer the Hero Appreciation Month’s hectic atmosphere. the N military discount, at http://www. nty is threerivers.com/. Just select “Events Cou Page”, then select “Hero Apprecia- lla tion Months” from the drop-down k u • Birding Menu. a • Fishing • Hiking • Biking All the details will be there — in W addition to an Honor Role and a • History • World-Class Springs Blog which chronicles the history • Lighthouse • Canoeing & Kayaking of our program. As always, we deeply appreciate, • Wild & Scenic Rivers • Fresh Seafood and we are proud to support, the Wakulla Co. Tourist Development Council dedicated men and women of our Armed Services and their families. 850.984.3966 • visitwakulla.com God bless you, and we hope to see 52 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA This holiday season spend wisely and give wildly at Tampa’s LOWRY PARK ZOO

When the mall becomes a zoo Ice Slide with 100 feet of frozen at the holiday shop. on your list at Tampa’s Lowry Park this holiday season, head to a real fun, play carnival games, and little Wild Wonderland is a fundraiser Zoo this year. Here are a few “wild” zoo — Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo elves can jump for joy on new in- for the zoo, a nonprofi t organiza- ideas: — and embrace a Tampa tradition fl atables. tion, with proceeds benefi ting ani- Annual Zoo Pass — Give a gift for the young and young at heart. Don’t miss the that keeps giving all year When you visit the Zoo to have an jolly old elf him- long with an Annual Zoo enjoyable time, you are also sup- self and his merry Pass. Passes start at just porting an organization committed mammals — real $60 for individuals, and to making a difference in the lives reindeer. Their a family pass is just $160 of animals in the world around us. feathered friends for two adults and up to Each holiday season, Tampa’s the penguins will four children. Along with Lowry Park Zoo transforms into a stay up late for the unlimited daytime admis- whimsical world of holiday magic fun too, dressed sion, members also re- for Wild Wonderland, presented in their black and ceive Zoo Chatter maga- by Publix Super Markets Charities. white best. For the zine, exclusive discounts, Spread some seasonal cheer this fi rst time, see the special sneak peek invita- year as you stroll through the zoo il- animals of Safari tions and much more. luminated with holiday lights, sights Africa in a whole Adopt an Animal and sounds on select nights — Dec. new light — under Package — By purchas- 8, 14-23 and 26-30 from 6:30-10 the starry night ing a symbolic animal p.m. sky. This enchant- adoption package you Find dazzling decorations and ing area, known as help to support expert radiant lights throughout the zoo’s Safari Spectacular, animal care at the zoo, as pathways, including a musical light will include the well as local and global show set against the beautiful back- Frozen Forest, a white crystal light mal care and education programs. conservation efforts. Packages start drop of an enchanting castle entry- experience. Admission prices for Wild Won- at just $35. way. Make memories as you stroll Nightly “Florida fl urries” are rea- derland are $13 for adults (ages 12 Sponsor a Bench — Remember past charming animated displays sons to take a “snow day!” More and over), $11 for children (ages a loved one or thank someone spe- and whimsical storefront windows. merriment awaits with returning three to 11), and free for ages two cial with a personalized bench to The newest addition to the sea- family favorites like free unlimited and under. Members of the military be displayed at the zoo. sonal celebration is the 100 foot- zoo rides, Frosty and friends walk- may purchase discounted tickets at Behind-The-Scenes Tour — long Arctic Blast Ice Slide, located around characters, decadent treats MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa at Experience the zoo as a VIZ (Very within the Reindeer Games area. from the zoo’s own Sweet Shoppe, the Information, Tickets and Travel Important Zoogoer). Get in-depth Here families can chill out on the festive holiday music, and wild gifts offi ce. A valid military or DOD Civil- knowledge about the zoo’s ani- ian I.D. is required for purchase. mals and insights into how the zoo There are many other ways to works. share the excitement of the zoo For more information, visit with friends and family. Find in- LowryParkZoo.com. Also fi nd the Zoo on spiring holiday gifts for everyone Facebook.

Vacations and Reunions 10% discount with a Bavarian Touch for military! It’s going to be brrrr-illiant! Wild Wonderland lights up Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo with seasonal cheer. Merriment awaits with returning fafamily yfao favorites, tes,pus plus many a yN NEW additions addditionsdt to this Tampa Bay tradition.

™ BdgZi]VcVmillion twinkling lights ™ C:LSafari Spectacular a festive way ™ BZZiHVciV  idk^h^ii]ZVc^bVahd[HV[Vg^6[g^XV ™ REAL REINDEER (only at the Zoo) and penguins ™ C^\]ianÆ;adg^YVhcdlÓjgg^ZhÇ ™ C:L&%%[ddiadc\Arctic Blast Ice Slide ™ 6c^bViZY]da^YVnY^heaVnh ™

The Helendorf River Inn & Suites is located in the Alpine Village of Helen, Georgia ; Easy walk to shops, restaurants and activities ;Rooms with balconies on the banks of the river ;Enclosed heated pool ;Complimentary continental breakfast ;Suites with À replaces, Jacuzzis and kitchens ;Large meeting and party facilities ;Proudly operated by an Army Brat Presented by P.O. Box 305 • Helen, Georgia 30545 Connect with the Zoo! 800-445-2271

 www.Helendorf.com TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 53 Lots to do in Pooler, Georgia If you’re ready for a change, then Places to Stay at Pooler’s Mighty Eighth Air Force more), YMCA, family amusement come to Pooler, home of the Savan- Pooler offers great accommoda- Museum. The Eighth Air Force was parks, and a 102-acre recreation nah Tire Flyin’ Pig BBQ and Music tions at a variety of local hotels and activated during World War II at complex. Two golf courses are in or Festival, Cooler in Pooler Resolu- motels. You’ll fi nd quality accommo- Hunter Army Airfi eld as part of the near Pooler. Kayaking and canoe- tion 5K and!5K, the Daniel Defense dations that are affordable and pro- Army’s Air Corps. ing rentals and tours of the nearby Run, the Mighty Eighth A new IMAX Theatre, SK8 City, Ogeechee River are easily available. Air Force Museum (which two multi-screen theatres, amuse- has its roots to the Army ment parks, mix of stores, restau- Contact Us Air Corps in WWII), Disc rants, banks, and other convenienc- For more information contact us Golf Tournament, and es let you stay close to Pooler for at 912-748-0110, marketing@visit more. Pooler is a great shopping needs. Pooler also boasts pooler.com or visit www.visit place to visit and your a number of recreational attrac- pooler.com. Our Pooler Chamber of wallet will enjoy the sav- tions such as Oglethorpe Speed- Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Inc. ings, too. way Park, Tom Triplett Park (com- offi ce is near I-95, exit 102, at 175 We welcome the mili- plete with lake, walking and biking Bourne Avenue (inside the Mighty tary and a lot of families trails, tennis courts, disc golf, and Eighth Air Force Museum). from Hunter Army Airfi eld and Fort Stewart call Pool- er home for its great qual- ity of life. Pooler is close to two in- vide ample, free parking and some terstates, the Savannah/Hilton Head have pet-friendly areas. International Airport, Hunter Army Our large and small hotels and Airfi eld Px, and Fort Stewart. Our motels include suites, extended stay location also offers easy access to options, traditional rooms, dining Historic Savannah and local beach- and meeting facilities, and more. If es at Tybee and Hilton Head. you’re including a visit to Savannah some trolley tour companies may Military Discounts pick up from your Pooler hotel or Special military discounts are motel. available at Pooler hotels and sever- al of the city’s local attractions. Plus, Things to See and Do our hotels offer ample, free parking Experience the excitement of and several have pet-friendly areas. a bombing mission, learn what it For help in planning your visit you was like to Escape and Evade the may contact marketing@visitpooler. enemy, enjoy military discounts, com. and see how we honor our military 54 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Garrett County, home of state’s largest lake

With an abundance of winter recreational activities and beauti- ful natural scenery, Garrett County, Maryland offers the perfect desti- nation to fi nd your next adventure or just fi nd your relaxation. Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, snow- mobiling, or simply curling up by the fi re — the area’s natural beauty is the perfect destination whether you seek winter days full of activi- ties or just plain relaxing. The largest and western most county in Maryland, Garrett Coun- ty is home to the state’s largest freshwater lake, Deep Creek Lake, a popular attraction for vacationers and boaters in the spring, summer and fall and the state’s only ski re- sort, Wisp Resort, a popular destina- tion for skiers, snowboarders and snowtubers to head for their winter getaways. With 32 slopes and trails, terrain parks, a snow tubing park, ice skating rink, their year-round Mountain Coaster, a Nordic center offering guided snowmobile tours, cross-country skiing and snowshoe- ing and a slopeside Hotel, Wisp Re- sort offers visitors a complete win- ter experience. Count on Wisp for the best snow guidelines, snow information and the well-groomed trails in Garrett on designated trails. Permits are conditions in the Mid-Atlantic. With more. County’s state forests for cross- required ($15/year, available at state one of the most extensive snow- And the winter fun doesn’t stop country skiing. Non-skiers can still park offi ces). Check the maps at making systems in the East and wa- at just Wisp! Garrett County boasts schuss through the snow on a dog- www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/ ter from Deep Creek Lake, Wisp can plenty ofactivities for those look- sledding ride! Contact Husky Pow- orv.asp for designated trails. keep many of its trails open even ing for winter adventure includ- er Dogsledding at 301-746-7200 or But if you’re looking to simply when Mother Nature isn’t cooper- ing sledding, snowshoeing — rent go to www.huskypowerdogsled- relax this winter, Garrett Coun- ating. And, of course, you can rent equipment at state parks — and ding.com. With the touch of a throt- ty also offers horse-drawn sleigh equipment and take lessons right at ice fi shing on Deep Creek Lake tle, surge through snow banks and rides at Pleasant Valley Dreamrides the Resort. Contact 301-387-4000 (as conditions allow).If quiet for- forests on a snowmobile. Snowmo- (301-334-1688, www.pleasantval- or www.wispresort.com for general ests are more your skiing style, try biles are permitted in state forests leydreamrides.com), numerous spas — including ones that offer in-home massages, scenic winter- time nature walks at our eight state parks and two state forests. The area’s spacious lakefront homes, luxurious slope-side chalets, charm- ing bed-and-breakfasts, rustic cot- tages and historic inns offer a wel- come respite from the hectic pace of daily life. With museums, specialty shop- ping, amusement centers, arcades and the Deep Creek Lake State Park Discovery Center, there’s plenty to do indoors as well. Shopping is concentrated in three main areas: Grantsville, McHenry and Oak- land but be sure to keep your eyes open beyond the main streets! The area’s numerous small towns offer a glimpse into the county’s histo- ry. Spruce Forest Artisan Village in Grantsville offers you the unique opportunity to visit with artisans creating pottery, metal sculpture, stained glass and more in historic structures. Visit the county’s oldest residence, the Drane House, in the town of Accident or head to one of the area’s four museums to learn the history of Garrett County or stop into the Garrett County Arts Council to view the work of local artists and pick up a few pieces to take home with you! The county’s newest Museum, the Garrett Coun- ty Transportation Museum features antique vehicles and displays. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 55

With all there is to do in Garrett Wisp Resort celebrates military County, you’re going to work up an and rescue personnel with Heroes appetite. So fi nd a pub, grab some Day on Friday, Jan. 4, 2013. Show a pizza or settle down for a gour- valid service ID that day to receive met meal and get a taste of Garrett a complimentary one-day lift ticket County. Deep Creek also feeds the and the hero’s immediate family fun-loving part of your soul with members only can receive a $10 music and cocktails at lively late- one-day lift ticket. night spots that also serve light Take an icy dip in Deep Creek fare. Lake to raise funds for Special There are also plenty of winter Olympics Maryland at the Deep events in the Deep Creek Lake area. Creek Dunk on Feb. 23, 2013. Cel- Save big at Wisp’s 57th Birthday ebrate winter with ice art, games, Celebration Dec. 8–10, 2012*! Use food, kids’ activities and more at $10 one-day lift tickets Sunday and Oakland Winterfest Feb. 15-17, Monday, or ski the whole weekend 2013.To get the dates and infor- with a $55, 3-day Lift Ticket (Satur- mation on area events, be sure to day–Monday). The slopeside Wisp check our online event calendar at Resort Hotel is offering a $59 per visitdeepcreek.com. room, per night* rate on Sunday In addition to an interactive ver- Discover and Monday, Dec. 9-10, 2012.*Based sion of the offi cial Deep Creek on availability and advance reser- Lake Area and Garrett County Visi- vations. Not valid with other dis- tors’ Guide, visitdeepcreek.com counts or promotions. Only valid features a lodging section offering Dec. 9-10, 2012. availability information for local Ca ty vacation rental homes, bed and ro un breakfasts, camping sites, hotels line Co and motels, cabins and lodges, dining information organized by restaurants, wineries, spe- cialty shops and nightlife, a hot deals listing of area discounts, Located on the Chesapeake Peninsula between the Choptank River and the Mason-Dixon a calendar of events, an area Line, Caroline County is the perfect destination for heritage enthusiasts and outdoor snow and ski report and a free adventurers. Here you’ll ½ nd a rural and relaxing lifestyle where you can explore quaint and historic towns, paddle along pristine waterways or experience unique heritage adventures. download of the MyChamber- App for information and map- Whatever your passion, come spend a weekend with Caroline. ping the closest businesses For more information, visit WWW.TOURCAROLINE.com when you’re in the area. The Deep Creek Lake area is less than a three-hour drive from the metropolitan areas of Baltimore and Washington, D.C., less than a two-hour drive from Pittsburgh, PA, Winchester, VA and Hagerstown, MD and Mor- gantown, WV and Cumberland, MD are just 45 minutes away. For more information about Garrett County and the Deep Creek Lake area, please head to visitdeepcreek.com or stop into the Garrett County Visitors Cen- ter in McHenry, MD. For more information, call 888.387.5237 or visit www.deep creek.com) 56 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Enjoy history and culture in Putnam County, NY

By Marty Collins through the 270-acre marsh. Kayak- Size doesn’t matter — especially ers can paddle their way through when it comes to choosing a place the marsh or up the Hudson to for some well-deserved R&R. Put- Bannerman Castle from a launch nam, the second smallest county Foundry Dock Park on Market St. in New York, offers as much as any Visit www.hudsonvalleyoutfi tters. larger county when it comes to com to arrange boat rentals and outdoor recreation, historical sites guides. Another Cold Spring gem and cultural events to enjoy. Visitors is Little Stony Point State Park on arrive easily by train at Metro-North Route 9D. Railroad stations in Cold Spring, Philipstown’s Hubbard/Perkins Garrison, Brewster, Southeast and Conservation Area with trailhead Patterson or by car via I-84 and off Route 9 is part of the NY/NJ the Taconic State Parkway. Putnam Trail Conference and includes more County, a mere 60 miles north of than 3800 acres of marked trails. Manhattan, is directly across the Smaller 136-acre Manitou Point Hudson River from the United Preserve offers trails along Manitou States Military Academy at West Marsh. Point. What better place for military By far the largest park in Put- personnel and their families to en- nam with its 14,000 acres is Clar- joy a day trip or vacation? ence Fahnestock Memorial State Park in Kent. Fahnestock includes True Relaxation Begins in Ski Putnam Canopus Lake, Stillwater Lake and Thunder Ridge Ski Area in Patter- Pelton Pond and is open year round Putnam County son (www.thunderridgeski.com) is providing seasonal camping, swim- more than just a winter destination ming, bow hunting, fi shing, x-coun- for skiing and snowboarding but do try skiing and snowshoeing. take advantage of their special Ski The almost 1000-acreWonder and Stay packages or their One-Day Lake State Park on Ludingtonville Only 60 Miles North of NYC Road in Kent offers visitors hiking, and Just Across the River from West Point Getaway outings during the ski and snowboard season where they offer biking, fi shing and bird watching free shuttle service for guests from as do Kent’s Big Buck, White Pond, the Patterson train station. California Hill and Nimham Moun- tain Multiple Use Areas. Don’t miss Learn more about Putnam County at Cross-country skiers and snow- shoe enthusiasts may exit the TSP climbing the restored Mt. Nimham www.PutnamTourism.org to spend a day on the Clarence Fah- Fire Tower while on Nimham or Find us on Facebook and Twitter nestock Memorial State Park (www. Mountain. nysparks.state.ny.us) trails in Kent. For maps and directions to all of Put- nam’s state parks, visit: www.nysparks. Hike Putnam state.ny.us. Thanks to sportsmen’s groups and open space advocates, huge Historic Putnam tracts of Putnam County’s land- All across Putnam, towns, vil- scape have been designated forever lages and hamlets offer history green. Putnam boasts more than a seekers reasons to visit and sites dozen state or county parks, sanc- to see, many listed on the Nation- tuaries and multiple use areas. Cold al Register of Historic Places. Just Spring in western-most Putnam, of- having celebrated its 200th anni- fers several small state parks: Hud- versary, Putnam County can offer son Highlands State Park on Route history lessons stretching well be- 9D with its challenging 5.5 mile yond the county’s 1812 beginnings. trail along Breakneck Ridge. News- Putnam’s more than 200 stone week named it one of its Top 10 chambers date back centuries and Day Hikes in America. The designa- have earned the county the well- tion becomes evident once atop deserved nickname as the Stone the ridge. Chamber Capital of the United While in Cold Spring visit Consti- States. tution Marsh Audubon Center and Visitors can learn of the Revolu- Sanctuary on Indian Hill Road and tionary War-era Parrott Cannon, the stroll along its extensive boardwalk (see VISIT PUTNAM next page) Visit Anderson, South Carolina

Family Fun on Split Creek Farm the Lake Award winning goat farm- Camping, fi shing visit with the animals, sample and boating on goat cheese, fudge and more. Lake Hartwell. Many other agri-tourism sites.

History Southern Oaks Many historical sites including the Anderson County Museum, Antebellum plantations, historic churches and more.

11 golf courses in Anderson County TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 57 Discover Missouri’s hometown

We know your vacation time ner and nightlife is your mode of children comes alive at Joplin’s Great Community is valuable and important to you. relaxation then you will want to Wildcat Glades Conservation and Hospitality has long been a cor- Joplin, Missouri has a long and spend time on Joplin’s portion of Audubon Center. The Center of- nerstone of Joplin’s culture. Follow- rich history of being that commu- Historic Route 66. Main Street Jop- fers something for all ages, but for ing the devastating EF-5 tornado on nity which takes care of others. lin is the heart of the city and right the young traveler it becomes that May 22, 2011, the citizens of Joplin From the early days as a mining on the byway. There shopping, din- break in a long road journey that have not only cared for themselves town, Joplin was where the min- ing and nightlife are waiting for is turned into a deep educational but have welcomed the service of ers came to spend their paychecks you. Downtown Joplin will also be memory. Relaxation in the heart- over 154,905 registered volunteers land of southwest Missouri, should and relax while having a good the site for the 2013 Route 66 In- to aid in search, rescue and now inside a tour of the education time. Joplin was not as dramatic ternational Festival, August 2-4. For recover efforts. Collectively, they as the Wild Wild West, but at the center or a leisurely stroll walk three days, Route 66 enthusiast, have provided over 956,798 hours Joplin Historical Museum you will known as Roadies, will enjoy vin- along one of the trails. An abun- of service. For this we will forever hear the tales and folklore of many tage car, truck and military vehicle dance of nature awaits the entire be thankful. For this we are deeply colorful citizens, past and present. shows, entertainment, crafts and family. Young minds encountering appreciative and welcome all who While there, in the TriState Mineral collectables. Authors, artisans and Mother Nature hands-on, is an ex- Wing of the museum you will see the favors of Missouri 66 commu- perience that ranks alongside the come to help or just to visit. Our some of the world’s largest and nities; everything Route 66 will be required daily servings of fruit and front porch now stretches coast best kept specimen of zinc, lead featured. vegetables as being good for them. to coast of this great land. For this, and quartz. For more details visit: www. The Wildcat Glades Conservation we are Joplin, America - Missouri’s route66internationalfestival.com. and Audubon Center located just Hometown. Get Your Kick south of Exit 6 on I-44 is a Joplin For more information on Joplin go to: If a drive along scenic roads and Something For The Kids destination worth seeing up close www.visitjoplinmo.com or call 1-800- then cruisin’ on into town for din- The wondrous curiosity of and personal. 657-2534.

Visit Putnam Places to Stay in Putnam Visitors can retire in any of Put- (Continued from previous page ) nam’s charming B&B’s such as the Great Chain that once stretched Pig Hill Inn, Plumbush Inn (www. across the Hudson River and more plumbushinn.net) and the Bird and at the Putnam History Museum and Bottle Inn (www.thebirdandbottle- West Point Foundry in Cold Spring inn.com). (http://www.pchs-fsm.org). In Gar- rison, see Boscobel House and Gar- Adventures Around Putnam dens (www.boscobel.org), a 19th For a comprehensive travel guide century Federal-style mansion on for family-friendly things to do and whose grounds the Hudson Valley see in Putnam County, there is no Shakespeare Festival is held. Mani- better reference than local au- toga, home of industrial designer thor Steve Mattison’s “Adventures Russell Wright, is tucked away in its Around Putnam” (www.adveture- woodland world and well worth a saroundputnam.com), a must-have visit. compact volume of day-trip infor- Southeast and Brewster histo- mation. ries are reviewed at the South- Remember, the welcome mat east Museum where evaporated is always out in Putnam County milk and a railroad play signifi cant where the country truly begins. roles. Old Town Hall and the Walter Putnam County - it’s a great place Brewster House still stand on Main to go . . . and to get to know. Street. Don’t miss the Old South- Marty Collins, former editor of The Nestled in the heart of Northeast Missouri, east Church, its cemetery and one- Putnam County Press, is a 35-year resi- Kirksville off ers much to see and do. Visitors will room Doanesburg School House on dent of Putnam County. She is presently discover how the many exciting attractions and Route 22. the Director of Communications for Put- events, as well as the recreation activities, dining Members of the Carmel, Kent, nam County Tourism and can be reached and our world-famous hunting work together to Patterson and Putnam Valley Histor- at [email protected]. make Kirksville “Missouri’s North Star”. ical Societies actively work to pre- For more information on Putnam County serve local history, sponsor popular and its events, visit: www.PutnamTour- guided hikes and cemetery tours ism.org. and offer lectures and workshops. A Photos provided by Rebecca Bertoldi of 304 S. Franklin 7Kirksville, MO 6350 7660-665-3766 7 [email protected] visit to each is worth the trip. Multi Media Design.

Wayne County, Ohio Military Friendly Travel Destination The rural charm of Wayne County’s rolling hills, lush woods and scenic farmland is only the be- ginning. An abundance of cultural activities and events makes us a great destination any time of year. Known as the “Gateway to Amish Country,” Wayne and the surrounding counties are home to the world’s largest Amish population. Whether you are looking for a peaceful R&R getaway to a cozy bed & breakfast, a shopping experience in a wide variety of stores or an entertaining cultural event, you can fi nd just what you’re looking for in Wayne County. CROSSROADS OF CULTURE AND COUNTRYSIDE 800.362.6474 • 330.264.1800 WWW.WCCVB.COM • [email protected] 58 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL SKI Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia The John Denver song, Country Heaven West Virginia,” but there closer to Heaven than Snowshoe elevation it is the highest resort in Roads, starts with the line “Almost is perhaps nowhere in the state Mountain. With a 4,848 foot summit the state. It is usually the fi rst area south of the Mason-Dixon Line to have natural snowfall each season, and totals over 180 inches most seasons. The trails are challenging, and there are many activities on the WE THANK slopes and in the Village, in addition to skiing and snowboarding. YOU FOR YOUR Snowshoe is about a four hour drive from the Washington D.C. and SERVICE. Baltimore areas, and slightly less from Richmond, Virginia, Western North Carolina and other south- ern locations. Most of the trip is by the Interstate with the last leg on mountain roads. Here the going is slower. Drive by daylight and savor the breathtaking scenery. The slopes offer up to a 1,500 foot vertical drop. There are 60 trails. The most dramatic and ex- citing are in the Western Territory, where you fi nd the mile and a half long black diamond Cupp Run and Shays Run. There are 15 lifts, 244 acres of well-groomed terrain, 7 acres of gladed terrain, and 26 acres of freestyle terrain. Snowshoe actually is a combina- tion of three ski areas — Snowshoe Basin, The Western Territory, and Silver Creek. Silver Creek has its own separate hotel for lodging and dining but is also served by Snow- shoe shuttle buses. Silver Creek has an excellent snowsports school and one of the leading adaptive and Wounded Warrior program in the region. Shuttle buses run between WE WOULD LIKE TO SHOW the areas, so you can park your car OUR APPRECIATION BY and leave the driving to them. OFFERING THE FOLLOWING One of the benefi ts of staying in MILITARY DISCOUNTS: the newer Snowshoe Village condo- miniums is covered parking garag- es. There are several outdoor lots whose aisles are kept well plowed, SEASON PASS DEALS but you may have to dig your bur- discounts off our regular rate. ied car out of the snow. The condos are the best plac- 50% OFF es to stay, and you can often get a midweek and value season lift tickets. package with discounts on lodg- 25% OFF ing, lifts and restaurants. There are weekend and holiday lift tickets. bigger discounts on midweek and three-day lift tickets. The condos are 10% OFF modern and spacious and can sleep lodging anytime summer or winter. several people. They have large kitchens, gas fi replaces, internet service and sweeping views. Most of the units have hot tubs outside and four have swimming pools for their guests. The dramatic, outside SNOW Split Rock Pool can be used by all GUARANTEE guests at a cost of $10 a day. A Details at snowshoemtn.com. Snowshoe is a beautiful area. You are always surrounded by wonder- We’ll have more snow than anyone ful mountain vistas because the around or you ski FREE, guaranteed. entire resort is built upside-down, Go to www.snowshoemtn.com the base village is on the top of the for complete details. mountain. Usually you can ski out of your condo and right down the Book your ski getaway trail. That’s right, you ski or snow- online today or call board down, and take the chairs 877-441-4386. up. From the top, hawks and clouds snowshoemtn.com © 2012 Intrawest YOU BELONG UP HERE. hover under you. Literally you are on top of the world! Snowshoe’s mountain operations This applies to anyone with a valid Military ID: active duty, retired and dependents of either. Valid Military ID is required. Discounts on lift tickets are off the window rates. Military deals cannot be combined with other discounts and promotions. Some restrictions may apply. team has been busy this recent summer adding more intermediate (see SNOWSHOE next page) TRAVEL SKI Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 59 Ski the North Carolina mountains

Ski resorts in North Carolina off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This here is one of the best known in while the rest cater to beginners resemble ski resorts on the west North Carolina ski mountain has the state. and intermediate skiers as they are coast more closely than they do the nine slopes spread evenly amongst This North Carolina ski area not very steep. Lift tickets will cost blustery ski mountains of New Eng- beginning, intermediate and ad- opens in November each year and between $30 and $50 for the day land and some other spots along vanced level options. The ski season usually stays open through March. (there are discounts for half day ski- the Atlantic seaboard. Nevertheless, here at the Appalachian Ski Moun- Hours are from 9am until 4:30pm ers), and there are North Carolina tain begins the week- for day skiing, and from 6pm to ski packages that incorporate rent- end prior to Thanks- 10pm for night skiing. Lift tickets als for the length of your ski vaca- giving, and usually are about $50 per person, with a tion. ends toward the end reduced rate offered for children Whether you stay at Charlotte of March. Hours are under age 10. hotels, Winston Salem hotels, or at form 9am to 4pm dur- The Hawksnest Golf and Ski Re- a ski resort right on the mountain, ing the day, and from sort is also a great place for North skiing in North Carolina is a great 6pm until 10pm for Carolina ski packages. Though it way to spend a weekend or an en- night skiing, and lift might sound contradictory, this re- tire week. Be sure to bring along tickets are around sort does have both a golf course plenty of warm clothing and wind $30 per person for and access to ski mountains, resistant items wherever possible. the day. though they are both open on a Winds throughout the North Caro- This is one of the seasonal basis. Hawksnest Resort is lina ski regions are strong and tem- favorite places to ski located in the town of Seven Devils, peratures can be quite low. Book North Carolina for lo- just about 20 miles south of Banner holiday stays well in advance to cals. During the sum- Elk, and has 12 slopes for skiing. ensure that you will get your fi rst mer, the Blue Ridge One slope is for advanced skiers, choice on accommodations. Parkway and Great Smoky Mountain Na- tional Park, part of the Appalachian Moun- tains, are a great place for a vacation as well. weather conditions for ski resorts Hiking, camping and fi shing are all in North Carolina will still be in- popular choices in this area during credibly cold throughout the win- the summer. ter and often quite windy. For many Sugar Mountain Resort is anoth- ski enthusiasts, the mostly exciting er of the best ski resorts in North terrain is worth braving the cold Carolina. Sugar Mountain is located weather, however, and the North near the town of Banner Elk, North Carolina ski vacations are quite Carolina and has a total of 20 dif- popular throughout the southeast. ferent slopes. Banner Elk is about 2 hours by car west of both Charlotte Skiing and Winston-Salem for travelers • Appalachian Ski Mountain Re- who want to see the Mint Museum sort or the Discovery Place Museum af- • Beech Mountain Ski Resort ter they have fi nished their ski trip. • Cataloochee Ski Resort About a quarter of the runs are • Sugar Mountain Ski Resort geared toward experts, while the • Wolf Laurel Ski Resort rest of the mountain is great for • Sapphire Valley intermediate and beginning skiers. One of the best places to ski North Carolina ski packages here North Carolina is the Appalachian at Sugar Mountain often include Ski Mountain located high in the access to ski school for children Appalachian Mountain range just or interested adults; the ski school

Snowshoe est employer in this part of West Virginia. In the warmer seasons, the (Continued from previous page) mountains, streams, and forests are BOONE, NC and glade terrain. There will be sev- popular for camping, hunting and en acres of additional tree skiing, fi shing. Both the National Radio As- Rejuvenate. Exhilarate. Hibernate. and changes are made in the terrain tronomy facility in Green Bank and parks, in additional to a new terrain the scenic logging railroad in Cass park at Silver Creek. are unique attractions worthy of Snowshoe Basin and Western visiting and both are within a half Territory keep their lifts open from hour drive. 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon. In addition to swimming and Silver Creek stays open until 9 p.m. indoor sports in the Snowshoe Vil- with most of the trails lighted. After lage, there is a zipline. A larger one that, there are a variety of restau- rants and après ski entertainment is on the way for next season. By for all ages, if you really want to the way, Snowshoe has added or leave your condo and the hot tubs. upgraded over 5,000 feet of snow- Some favorite restaurants include making pipe this season, for when the Foxfi re Grille, Old Spruce and nature does not cooperate. But that The Junction. All the restaurants, ac- is not usually the case in Snowshoe — it generally tops the rest of the tivities and shops in the village are For family-sized accommodations and more info, visit: within walking distance. Mid Atlantic, and often New Eng- The resort is not just for fun. It land, in the beautiful white fl uffy ExploreBooneArea.com or call 888-264-8085 provides important employment snow, which encases the trees and for hundreds of people in the re- the slopes in its beauty. It truly is, as gion. The snow resort industry they say, “wild and wonderful West rivals coal and timber as the larg- Virginia.” 60 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Ice sculptures, chocolate tasting and polar bear plunge

By Tom Schaeffer Along the way, you’ll see more dinner for two at one of our many the shops, Roller Mills, has 400 Marketing Director than a dozen historic covered fi ne dining establishments. antique dealers on site! In down- Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau bridges, pristine farmland, half a It’s also a wonderful time to take town Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Sun- Whether you’re looking for a re- dozen family-owned wineries, an- advantage of some of our arts and bury and Miffl inburg, there are a laxing country getaway for two, or tique shops, mountain vistas, and cultural treasures. With a variety of wealth of shops — anything from an adventure-fi lled vacation for the spectacular river views year-round. museums, art galleries, playhouses home furnishings to local wine, to whole family, consider the Central It’s a place where you’ll fi nd au- and performing arts centers, there homemade baked goods and hand- PA’s Susquehanna River Valley, This thenticity. Picturesque landscapes is never a shortage of entertain- dipped chocolates. winter. and friendly customer service are ment. It’s also a great way to have Winter Festivals for Kids and The tri-county region is made a way of life here. And while it may fun and stay warm! up of dozens of historic, thriving seem like the off-season, there is al- While in the area, take some time Kids-at-Heart downtowns that offer a plethora of ways something to do in the area. to do a wine tasting at one of four In the winter, the region hosts unique shopping destinations. The Winter is a great time to visit be- family owned wineries. Or visit a the Heart of Lewisburg Ice Festival Susquehanna River Valley is the per- cause it’s less crowded, so it’s easy few of the antique shops — many February 3-5 which includes a Polar fect place to fi nd that outside-the- to decompress from daily life. Enjoy are located in historic homes or Bear Plunge into the Susquehanna box gift this holiday season. a family-friendly home-style meal or restored barns and mills. One of (see SUSQUEHANNA page 63)

Discover What the Day Uncovers Winter anyone?

A scenic collection of authentic destinations, where the river connects you to classic PA heritage and outdoor discovery.

® VisitCentralPA.org 1-877-207-6698

Let your Pennsylvania Wilds Adventure begin here!

• Six state parks • More than 300,000 acres public land • Hundreds of miles of mountain trails • Rivers for your outdoor recreation adventures By Ingrid Podgurski over 14 miles of hiking and walk- Clinton County Economic Partnership Director of Marketing ing trails that range in length from 888.388.6991 • 570.748.5782 Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau one-quarter mile to over four miles. www.ClintonCountyInfo.com Believe it or not — winter is Most trails are designed for easy here. It is hard to imagine since we walking and one trail offers handi- have felt temperatures in the 60s capped accessibility. If fi shing is and 70s throughout most of fall, but your thing, ice fi shing has become Get Back to Nature according to the Farmers Almanac, a very popular winter activity on we are in for the coldest winter in Lake Chillisquaque. In fact, many of in East-Central PA! years . . . with snow. Columbia and our record “lunkers” were pulled Montour counties offer a wide va- from beneath the ice. A special riety of outdoor adventures in the permit is necessary to fi sh in the snow. So brush off those cabin fe- Goose Cove Wildlife Refuge Area. ver blues, get out of the house and Fishing in the refuge is permitted DO SOMETHING! Here are our rec- during the winter ice-fi shing season ommendations: only. PPL’s Montour Preserve PPL’s Susquehanna Riverlands Located just north of Danville in Environmental Preserve Washingtonville, Montour Preserve Located on the West and East offers a variety of outdoor activi- banks of the Susquehanna River ties throughout the year. During just outside of Berwick, the Susque- the winter months, hikers turn in hanna Riverlands offers 1,200 their boots for cross-country skis acres of public-use land year round. or snowshoes and explore the Pre- This preserve offers trails from serve’s Chilisuagi, Goose Woods one-quarter mile to fi ve miles in Request your free Outdoor and Wildlife Management trails. Of length, all great for winter hiking Recreation Guide today! course, trails are open as weath- or cross-country skiing. A 1.5-mile iTourColumbiaMontour.com er and snow permits. No skis or 800-847-4810 snowshoes? Montour Preserve has (see MONTOUR page 64) TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 61 Military R&R in Bryan-College Station

As a community known for hon- that tell the story of the battles in oring the military and those who the Gulf, and a tent theater where have served our country, Bryan- guests can hear fi rst-hand battle College Station offers a worthy spot stories from servicemen who lived for rest and relaxation away from to tell. It’s almost as if you were the hustle and bustle of the big there right in the thick of battle! city. Because Bryan-College Station The Museum will participate in is conveniently located between Blue Star Museums through Labor Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas, an Day this year, which honors those event-fi lled trip to Aggieland can be who have served our country. All made within a day. It is home to the active-duty military personnel and George Bush Presidential Library their immediate families will have and Museum, and Texas A&M Uni- free admission to the museum. versity, two institutions that hold So whether you’re Army, Navy, Air a special fondness and respect for Force, Marines, Coast Guard, an ac- the military. tive duty National Guard, or an ac- One of the top attractions in tive duty Reserve member, come Texas, The George Bush Presiden- see the exhibits and displays that tial Library and Museum, highlights honor you and your courageous the major stepping stones taken service. by President George H.W. Bush Texas A&M is known for its tradi- throughout his life, as well as mile- tions, friendly spirit, and military stones and important events in infl uence. Originally named the United States history that occurred Agricultural and Mechanical Col- during his lifetime. An exhibit de- lege of Texas, student involvement tails the events of World War II and in military training was initially re- the impact Pearl Harbor had on quired. The Corps of Cadets, now young Bush. Also, featured is a re- the voluntary student military body stored 1944 TBM Avenger, similar since the 1960s, is iconic in Aggie- to the aircraft Bush fl ew in combat. land. Always portrayed on every Complete with a fl ight simulator televised football game and always of the TBM, a model of an aircraft visible on campus, the Corps re- carrier, and many of George Bush’s mains a symbol of A&M’s proud personal mementos, this display is military heritage. nostalgic for any veteran. The entire According to A&M’s website, the museum carries pieces and seg- university is one of only six senior ments of Bush’s entire life! military colleges, and with over The Ansary Gallery of American 2,000 men and women, “the Corps to Rest, History displays several prominent (VFDSH is the largest uniformed body out- events in American history, offers Relax and Recuperate side the national service academies. insights on the American Presiden- As such it has historically produced in Lewisville, Texas cy, and highlights important topics more offi cers than any other insti- relevant to the Bush Administration. See an actual piece of the Berlin tution in the nation other than the Wall, a pivotal event during Bush’s academies.” On average, 40 percent presidency. The Berlin Wall/Age of of cadets become commissioned as to Lewisville military offi cers. 3ODQ

&DOO for your )UHH “Military Thank You Package” with local discounts! Laughlin Air Force Base Lake Amistad

Del Rio, TX off ers the calm turquoise waters of Lake Amistad to enjoy during your R&R along with delightful accommodations, restaurants, Val Verde Winery, unique shopping and much more. Del Rio is also home to Laughlin Air Force Base, the busiest pilot Val Verde Winery training base in the United States Air Force. 800.657.9571800 657 955771 • VisitLewisville.com 830-775-3551 www.drchamber.com 62 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Front Royal, a town for all seasons

Are the mountains calling you? square is charming no matter what The perfect place to enjoy a com- time of year it is. For more Civil War bination of small town charm and History you can take a driving tour natural splendor is in Front Royal, or visit the Confederate Rifl e Mu- Virginia. A mere 66 miles to the seum downtown. west of Washington D.C. you will While we can’t promise snow, fi nd our town with its ability to we certainly guarantee a good time make anyone feel local as soon as at Christkindlmarkt in historic they arrive. With annual events, Front Royal. This is a two-day Ger- outdoor recreation, Civil War his- man festival that features music, tory, wineries, shopping, dining and food, Hilby the juggler, a parade interesting places to stay — Front and horse drawn buggy rides. The Royal offers the best of the Shenandoah Valley and Pause for a moment and take in a little something for ev- eryone. the surroundings — the sound of Pause for a moment and rustling leaves, chirping birds and take in the surroundings — the sound of rustling trickling streams, the sight of a leaves, chirping birds and glowing sunset over the Blue trickling streams, the sight of a glowing sunset over Ridge Mountains, the feeling the Blue Ridge Mountains, of being immersed in nature the feeling of being im- mersed in nature and of and of time standing still. This is time standing still. This is Shenandoah National Park — the Shenandoah National Park — the home of Skyline home of Skyline Drive and Drive and endless natural endless natural beauty. beauty. Here you can leave it all behind for a day, a weekend or festival will also have performances a perfect week of unplugging from by the silent monks of the Shenan- the everyday and reconnecting doah and competitions such as a with the outdoors. mustache and beard contest as well The park is home to miles and as traditional corn hole. The event miles of hiking trails along the fa- fi nishes with a wonderful holiday mous Appalachian Trail. Wildlife also parade that is fun to watch for the abounds with species that are na- whole family, especially with a cup tive to the Shenandoah mountain of hot chocolate in hand. range. Another outdoor recreation For Lodging in the Front Royal destination in Front Royal is the area we are excited to offer some Andy B Guest Shenandoah River new options as well as the tradi- State Park. The park lies beside tional venues. The camping world is the south fork of the Shenandoah all a buzz with the growing trend of River and offers rolling, mountain- the Yurt- a circular material covered ous land for exploring and reno- tent. These round structures allow vated cabins to stay in. In addition guests to reduce their footprint on to meandering river frontage, the the earth while trying something park offers scenic vistas overlook- unique in mountain and riverside ing Massanutten Mountain to the lodging. The Bed and Breakfasts in west and Shenandoah National Park the area each offer a different story to the east. and history. The innkeepers have Another natural wonder in our taken every detail into account to area is the Skyline Caverns. As one ensure that your stay is special. Or of the only places on earth that spend a week in a cozy cabin load- house Anthodites — a rare geologic ed with all the comforts of home formation the guided tour is as in- but tucked away in a country set- formational as it is impressive. You ting. will witness Mother Nature con- Spring brings the wine festival tinuing her work, even today, on the in May in which vendors allow you formation of this exquisite creation. to taste wines from all over the The dripping of water you will fi nd region. The growing craft in Vir- throughout the cave is a reminder ginia has produced some delightful of the constant growth. The cave is wines from very unique vineyards. open year round and it is at a con- June means it’s time for the Virgin- stant temperature of 54 degrees in ia Herb Festival as well as Gazebo this underground attraction. Gatherings which take place every For a quaint downtown experi- Friday evening in the Gazebo Com- ence Front Royal offers up shops mons area. The Farmer’s Market and dining that you are sure to en- also starts in June featuring locally joy. Downtown also features a his- grown produce as well as baked toric walking tour that highlights goods and crafts from around the architecture and the history that region. Call, come by or go online helped to shape our town. Main for more details about our area. We and Chester streets are the oldest can’t wait to help you plan your and as you take the tour you may stay in Front Royal! fi nd some specialty shops with an- For more information visit, www. tiques or pottery that spark your Discoverfrontroyal.com or call 800-338- interest. The gazebo in the town 2576. TRAVEL USA Special Advertising Supplement THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 • 63 Get a better view of history in Winchester-Frederick County, VA

Located along I-81 at the top throughout the Shenandoah Val- Mountains, and Frederick County battlefi eld, imagine the general in of Virginia, Winchester-Frederick ley. After a busy day of sight-seeing, was the military and political train- his chair at the Stonewall Jackson’s County is only 70 miles NW of come back to your comfortable ho- ing ground for George Washington. Headquarters Museum, and see Washington, DC, 130 miles SW of tel in Winchester-Frederick County In the 18th and 19th centuries, The soldier graffi ti and 3,000 authentic Baltimore, and just minutes from to relax and unwind. Winchester- Great Valley Road, now known as relics at the Old Court House Civil the famous Skyline Drive and the Frederick County is a choice desti- Route 11, served as a migration trail War Museum. Blue Ridge Mountains. nation for travelers who appreciate for the Long Hunters, Germans, and A Civil War Orientation Center With 50 lodging and camping friendly, relaxing towns with big- Ulster Scots-Irish. is located within the Winchester- options, over 200 restaurants, and city amenities and the rural coun- In Winchester, visitors can walk Frederick County Visitor Center. dozens of attractions, Winchester- tryside. the same streets that George Wash- An interactive kiosk and brief fi lm Frederick County is a great safe and Throughout history, the Win- ington, Patsy Cline, and Stonewall help orient you to Civil War sites affordable place to stay while you chester-Frederick County area has Jackson once walked! See impres- within the Shenandoah Valley explore Washington, D.C., Harp- played an important role in the sive monuments of polar explorer Battlefi elds Foundation National ers Ferry National Historical Park, development of our nation. Win- Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd, Gen- Historic District. 19 Civil War Trail Luray Caverns, Manassas Battlefi eld, chester was the fi rst English-speak- eral Daniel Morgan of Revolution- signs, posted throughout the com- and numerous points-of-interest ing town west of the Blue Ridge ary War fame, and George Washing- munity, interpret troop movements ton, the father of our country. View and battles of that stirring time. the amazing architecture of build- Pulitzer Prize-winning author Susquehanna ings that witnessed some of our na- Willa Cather was born in Freder- tion’s greatest events and leaders. ick County, and lived here for the (Continued from page 60) In the mid-1700s Frederick fi rst ten years of her life. Country River and a Chocolate Lovers’ Fantasy Festival. Lewisburg’s Ice Festi- County became the military and music legend Patsy Cline proudly val features dozens of sparkling carved ice sculptures that line Market political training ground for George proclaimed Winchester her home. Street, with three large sculptures in designed for kids to enjoy, touch, Washington, who came here to sur- The Patsy Cline Historic House is ride and climb. vey the lands of Thomas, the Sixth the area’s newest tourist attraction. R.B. Winter State Park also hosts Snow Fest on Sunday, Feb. 10. That Lord Fairfax. On the outskirts of Jazz great John Kirby was a native event includes a snow shoeing hike, cross country skiing, ice skating, Winchester, Washington built Fort of Winchester, as was Spottswood horse drawn wagon rides, ice rescue demonstration, ice fi shing skills, Loudoun to protect area citizens Poles, a famous baseball outfi eld- snow mobiling safety and rides for kids, winter camping equipment during the French and Indian War. er. James W. Denver, for whom the and techniques, snow volleyball, broomball, an ice sculpture demon- At age 26, he was elected to his fi rst capital of Colorado was named, stration, winter search and rescue using dogs, and special activities public offi ce as Frederick County’s was also born here. for children including a winter storytime, nature activities and crafts. representative to the House of Bur- Tour the newly opened Patsy gesses. Cline Historic House. Walk where Art Deco Movie Theatre is the Jewel of Downtown Lewisburg During the Revolutionary War, country music legend Patsy Cline While the region boasts hundreds of miles of scenic farmland, it’s Daniel Morgan’s Rifl emen from walked, see where she lived, slept, not all rural countryside. Booming college towns like Lewisburg and Frederick County were among and spent her prime years while Selinsgrove give visitors the opportunity to experience a bustling the fi rst to go to Washington’s aid pursuing her music career. downtown experience, complete with historic architecture and small against the British. War prisoners In Winchester and Frederick town charm. were housed in Winchester and the County, approximately 40 Virginia The Campus Theatre is the jewel of the downtown. It is one of neighboring countryside. Historical Markers commemorate America’s few remaining single-screen, Art Deco movie palaces. The Winchester-Frederick County’s sites of importance: Springdale, Theatre was recently transformed as a result of a nearly $3 million fascinating early history is told built 1754; Opequon Presbyterian renovation. The building’s fi nely appointed interior, from its mirrored through museums such as Abram’s Church, site of the oldest marked lobby and lounge furnishings to the wall and ceiling murals and light Delight, the Museum of the Shenan- grave in the Shenandoah Valley fi xtures, is marked by luxurious Art Deco quality with its rich materi- doah Valley, Newtown History Cen- (1742); Abram’s Delight, built in als and novel decorative motifs. It just might take your breath away. ter, George Washington’s Offi ce, 1754, and now furnished with an- The theatre shows movies nightly. and the 1797 Manor House at Belle tiques of the 18th century; Mount While traveling from one unique attraction or destination to the Grove Plantation – a National Trust Hebron Cemetery and Gatehouse; next, you will see the unspoiled beauty of our historic covered bridg- for Historic Preservation site. and others. es, tranquil farmland, stunning scenic mountain vistas and peace- During the Civil War, the town Visit and discover our beautiful ful river views sure to help you relax as you are reminded that life’s changed hands between Confed- countryside and spectacular views greatest joy is truly in the journey. Explore the region at your own erate and Union forces 72 times – of the Blue Ridge Mountains to pace, in your own time. Every turn a treasure. more than any other community our east, and the Allegheny Moun- For more information or help planning your trip to the Susquehanna River in the country! Experience that tains to our west. Browse our an- Valley, call us at 877-207-8599 or go to VisitCentralPA.org or Facebook.com/ stirring time in our nation’s histo- tique and thrift stores, and shop SusquehannaRiverValley. ry! Take a guided Civil War walk- at Creekside or Old Town for the ing tour, follow the trenches of a perfect gift.

Winchester-Frederick County, VA welcomes the U.S. Army

Throughout history, the Winchester-Frederick County area has played an important role in the development of our nation. A step into Winchester-Frederick County is a step into fascinating chapters of history. The Stewart Bell Jr. Archives, located in the Handley Library, has over 150 oral interviews with veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Middle East. • Civil War Attractions • Historic Sites & Manors • Museums • Day Trips to D.C. • Shopping & Family Fun Call us for a free visitors guide. 877-871-1326 • 540-542-1326 Handley Library www.visitwinchesterva.com 64 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2012 www.thegriff on108.comon108.com TRAVEL USA Rhythms, rivers and racing in Halifax County, Va.

By Linda Shepperd, Director keys, goats and mules. Bob Cage acres, Buggs Island Lake is the larg- events each year and Virginia Inter- Halifax County Department of Tourism Sculpture Farm has over 70 metal est lake in Virginia and nationally national Raceway is a world-class Halifax County, located in south and wood sculptures by renowned known for bass, catfi sh and crappie road course. If it has wheels, there’s central Virginia on the North Caro- artist and tobacco auctioneer, Bob fi shing. A world record 143 pound good chance it will run in Halifax. lina border, has world-class speed- Cage. The rhythms of music can catfi sh was caught in the sum- In Halifax guests will fi nd ac- ways, award winning Virginia wines, be enjoyed in a restored tobacco mer of 2011. Little ones go back commodations ranging from quaint arts and culture, moonshine and warehouse, The Prizery, www.priz- in. Lesser known are the pristine B&Bs to the luxurious; dining legends, outstanding dining, pre- ery.com, in South Boston. Concerts, rivers, streams and ponds that dot choices from family style to fi ne mier fi shing and distinctly South- along with amateur and profession- the region and provide ample op- dining restaurants. Knowledge- ern towns. Most of all, the region al performances all occur in this portunities for fi shing and hunting. able staff will be available to offer has history; as good and important 300 seat theatre. Four state parks in the region will advice and assistance at the South offer the beauty and serenity that Boston-Halifax County Visitor Cen- as any in Virginia. The fi rst race for History American independence occurred has made Virginia State Parks tops ter, 1180 Bill Tuck Hwy. South Bos- Chapters in time exist all across in the nation. ton, VA 24592. in South Boston in 1781 with the Southern Virginia from the Revolu- Race to the Dan and set the stan- tionary War Crossing of the Dan to Racing Call 866-464-2543 or visit www.gohal- dard of service for generations to the Civil War Wilson-Kautz Raid, the NASCAR’s elite race at Martins- ifaxva.com. Regardless of where a visitor come. Two towns, South Boston Civil Rights in Education Heritage ville Speedway twice a year, South stays, eats or plays, they will be greeted and Halifax, offer Main Street hos- Trail. Visitors can explore and enjoy Boston Speedway is one of Ameri- with the warm hospitality and charm that pitality, antique stores, art galleries the traditions and celebrations it ca’s fi nest short tracks with over 20 exemplify the Halifax experience. and restaurants. left behind. Learn the account of Rhythms how General Greene tricked the British into crossing the Dan River Since the 1600s, the timeless to be trapped later in Yorktown. rhythms of planting, growing, har- Montour See the whole story in an exhib- (Continued from page 60) vesting and curing tobacco was it located in the Prizery in South the life thread of Southern Virginia. Boston. Patrick Henry elected to trail around the North Branch Canal, Lake Took-A-While, is especially Family farming was such an integral retire in the region and his home, well-suited for cross-country skiing. part of the culture that even today Red Hill, and is open to the pub- authentic agritourism brings visi- lic in Brookneal Virginia. Berry Hill Ricketts Glen State Park tors up close and personal with life Resort is where a restored 1850’s Located in the northeast corner of Columbia County, Ricketts in the region. Wineries, equestrian mansion and modern accommoda- Glen State Park offers cross-country skiing, snowmobile trails, ice farms, organic farming, Amish farms tions meet. climbing, winter camping, and ice fi shing on Lake Jean. We recom- and goat farming can all be found mend that you contact the park offi ce to determine ice and snow in Halifax. Agriculturally-focused Rivers conditions in advance of any planned outing. Cabins are also avail- life on the family farm remains the What can be more relaxing than able for rent if you decide to extend your trip overnight. Please heart and soul of the region. Visit fresh air, camping or horseback rid- check with the park offi ce for additional information on winter www.southernwinetrail.com to ing? Shangrila Retreat Guest Ranch sports. Park Offi ce: 570-477-5675 or http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/ fi nd information on tastings, tours has miles of trails, camping and cot- stateparks/parks/rickettsglen.aspx. and events. There is a sculpture tages. For boating and fi shing, visit farm that shares the land with don- Buggs Island Lake. At over 58,000 Brace’s Stables Located between Central and Jamison City, just off Route 118, Brace’s Stables is a must for those who want to get out and en- Remembering Their Valor, Fidelity and SacriÅ ce joy the countryside on horseback. They offer three beautiful sce- nic rides to choose from, weather permitting. The stables welcome Discover The National D-Day Memorial, groups and all trail riding is open to the public, with pony rides overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains available for young children. and the town that lost the most citizens per-capita in the United States at D-Day. State Game Lands The Memorial honors the Americans and Pennsylvania’s State Game Lands offer a vast area for cross-coun- all of the Allied forces involved. Near The try skiing and snowmobiling. There are designated routes for snow- Memorial is Thomas Jefferson’s retreat mobile use on State Game Lands. These routes are open, provided Poplar Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, there is suffi cient snow, from the third Sunday in January through Smith Mountain Lake and the Booker T. Washington National Monument. April 1. For more information on rules, regulations and maps of designat- Now Open Daily! ed trails, please visit the PA Game Commissions Website, and follow the link to “State Game Lands.” http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/. Bedford Welcome Center • Bedford, VA That’s it. Come to Columbia and Montour Counties and enjoy 877-447-3257 • www.visitbedford.com the endless possibilities that the winter season provides. Columbia and Montour Counties include Bloomsburg, Berwick, Danville and their surrounding communities. All lodging and restaurant establish- ments are conveniently accessible to Interstate 80 and Pennsylvania www.gohalifaxva.com Routes 11, 487, 54 and 42. The Bloomsburg Visitors Center is locat- Halifax County WELCOMES THE U.S. MILITARY... ed off Interstate 80 at exit 236. In Danville, our Visitors Center is lo- VIRGINIA cated in the heart of downtown at 316 Mill Street. For more information on all the events and attractions in Colum- bia and Montour counties, contact the Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau at 800-847-4810 and request your copy of the Offi cial Visi- tors Guide. Also ask to receive a free copy of our quarterly Calendar of Events. Before you head out, log-on to www.iTourColumbiaMontour.com for the most up-to-date information on area events, attractions and places to stay. The Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau would like to Rich in History. Rich in Culture. invite you to experience, fi rst hand, all of the hidden treasures of Rich with Adventures. Blessed with Good People. our area. You may discover — as many have — that with so much to enjoy and experience, you will return to Columbia and Montour

We have so many surprising adventures, you won’t know where to begin. Let us help! counties again and again! Request a brochure at www.gohalifaxva.com or call 434.572.2543 s toll free: 1.866.464.2543 The spark of an idea can spark a revolution. Join us on the streets where our forefathers walked. Where our democracy was formed. Where what it means to be a citizen was conceived. Join us in celebration of the memory and meaning of our shared history. Come explore, be inspired, and write your own story.

Talk to your local MWR or ITT office to obtain a special military discount. Visit colonialwilliamsburg.com to plan your trip.

Be part of the story. ADVERTISER INDEX

A.T. Still University 29 Anderson County CVB 56 Barton Community College 18 Liberty University 67 AHIMA 13 Apologia Press 48 Bedford Tourism 64 Lipscomb University 12 Alamogordo CVB 54 Ashford University 22 Boone & Watauga County Tourism 59 Lockridge Homes 23 Alban Tractor Company 25 Aviation Institute of Maintenance 45 Bryan-College Station CVB 61 Mercy College 33 All South Federal Credit Union 10 Avis Rent-A-Car 26 Capitol College 45 Mercyhurst University 19 American Medical Technologists 32 Ball State University 15 Career Path Training 43 Millersville University of Caroline County CVB 55 Pennsylvania 24 Carrot Top Industries 24 Mitchell College 6 Centura College 42 National Aviation Academy 39 Clay County CVB 50 Navy Federal Credit Union 35 Clinton County CVB 60 New York Institute of Technology 5 Colonial Williamsburg 65 North American Crane Bureau 40 Columbia-Montour CVB 60 North Carolina A&T University 11 Comfort Inn & Suites- Three Rivers 50 North Carolina Central University 25 Commercial Driver’s License School 41 Nova Southeastern University 27 Corban University 6 Peru State University 3 Correct Care Solutions 44 Pinnacle Pointe Hospital 23 County of Bath 55 Pooler Chamber of Commerce 53 County of Kent 57 Purchase College 26 Del Rio CVB 61 Putnam County Tourism 56 DeVry University 14 Redstone College 21 Everglades University 42 Refrigeration School, Inc. 44 First Command Financial Services 66 Sequoia Foothills CVB 50 Fort Hays State University 17 Snowshoe 58 Franklin County CVB 63 St. Francis College 25 Front Royal CVB 62 Sterling College 23 Gannon University 28 Sugar Mountain Resort 59 Gardner-Webb University 46 Sullivan University 68 Garrett County CVB 55 Susquehanna River Valley CVB 60 Geico 2 Swift Transportation 44 Golden Gate University 9 Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo 52 Greyhound Lines 66 Touro College 16 Grounds Guys, The 40 Town of Mount Pleasant 56 Grout Doctor, The 40 Tulsa Welding School 44 Halifax County Tourism 64 Universal Orlando 51 Harlingen CVB 61 University of Alabama 20 Heald College 28 University of Mary 39 Heart of North Carolina 47 University of Northern Colorado 46 Helendorf River Inn, The 52 University of South Carolina 31 Home School Foundation 49 University of Wisconsin-Stout 32 Horizon Transport 44 USAA 7 James Madison University 11 Visit Gainesville 50 Jax Games 49 Visit Joplin 57 Judson College 21 Visit Wakulla 51 Kirksville CVB 57 Wayne County CVB 57 Lake Charles Southwest West Metro Visitor’s Center 56 Louisiana CVB 53 Western Carolina University 31 Lewisville CVB 61 Winchester-Frederick County CVB 63

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