Issue 4, Fall/Winter 2010 INSIDE

TheNews andCastle Information from the 412th Theater Engineer Command

Operation Sand Castle 2009

Farewell DCP One Page 12

Soldiers save woman, receive key to city Page 7 As the July sun sets over the Mojave Desert, Soldiers of the 647th Regional Support Group, from El Paso, Texas bring in supplies to set up a forward operating base in preparation of Operation Sand Castle 2009, one of the largest military engineer training exercises conducted at the National Training Center. Photo by Pfc. Ryan Gilbertson, 204th Public Affairs Detachment

Fall/Winter 10 27 Inside the Castle CONTENTS A word from the Commander 5 A word from the Commander Inside the Castle ommand Sgt. Maj. TEC. The Joint Forces Engineer Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. Fall/Winter 2010 Ronald Flubacher and I 6 Command Sergeant Major’s Corner Command (JFEC) was activated to Guy Taylor, are leading the JFEC in Commander had the opportunity in serve as the this endeavor. I am very proud of Maj. Gen. Paul F. Hamm October to visit some of theater-level engineer headquarters the unit that has been assembled to 7 Mayor honors Soldiers for saving woman Deputy Commander C Big. Gen. Jimmy E. Fowler our Soldiers and units from the in a ceremony held in Afghanistan. meet the mission requirements and 412th TEC serving in Iraq. We Command Sergeant Major The JFEC mission is to manage make history. Let’s take pride in our 8 Taming the Tigris 8 Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald F. Flubacker were enormously proud to visit the construction effects throughout Army Reserve engineer unit for this Pulblic Affairs Officer such a great group of Soldiers the country, provide engineer and undertaking. 10 Soldiers reenlist at Fenway Park Lt. Col. Doril Sanders who had positive attitudes, great construction advice to the U.S. Thanks to Lt. Gen. Robert Van Deputy Public Affairs Officer motivation, and a huge desire to Forces-Afghanistan Antwerp for the journey Maj. Jesse Stalder Operation Sand Castle 2009 accomplish the mission, and do an Commanding over the past year which 12 Public Affairs NCO/ Editor Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Eugene outstanding job. We were honored General. The has enabled the DCP to by their presence and thanked JFEC also provides morph into the JFEC. He is 14 A warriors’ send off them all for their service to our command and the Chief of Engineers and country. Flubacher and I were control to all the Commanding General

16 Soldier proud of Army’s work in 10 12 energized as we interacted with engineer forces at of the U.S. Army Corps of Afghanistan our Soldiers. We acknowledged echelons above Engineers. It was through the huge sacrifices that they and brigade to include his vision, coordination, 18 The time honored art of river crossing their families are making on behalf Army Engineers, interaction, faith, and trust of the United States. Navy Seabees, and Maj. Gen. Paul F. Hamm in us that allowed the DCP Our plans were to visit all Air Force Red Horse to take on this important Army Reserve and Connecticut Auto 19 Retailers Association sign Employers the 412th TEC units in Iraq, and Prime Beef role. He is a huge supporter Partnership but there were limitations on units. In addition, the commander of both TEC’s (412th and 416th) time and travel. So we visited JFEC-A serves as the Director, and a firm believer in the abilities

20 Safety on the job 14 the 844th Engineer Battalion in International Security Assistance and experience that we bring to the Camp Victory, the 314th Public Force . theater. Affairs Operations Center in the The JFEC comprised of 70 We wish the newly-formed JFEC 21 A reason to run International Zone, and the 375th Soldiers from the Deployable the very best. Godspeed for their Engineer Company in Tallil. Command Post (DCP). Most of safety and well-being as they support 22 A reason to run We hope that our visit these Soldiers came from the 412th the theater commander to meet the reassured them with the message headquarters. However, some were strategic goals of the United States in 22 In support of Patriot Warrior that we care about them and their augmentees from our downtrace Afghanistan. Inside the Castle is a semiannual, unofficial publication authorized under well-being at all times. We also units. I want to thank everyone for their the provisions of Army regulation 360-1 visited other Army Reserve units. The stand-up of the JFEC is service, whether they are deployed 16 18 The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily of- Our purpose for visiting the Army historic for the 412th TEC as well or not, and appreciate the fact ficial views of, or endorced by, the U.S. Reserve units and Soldiers was as the U.S. Army Reserve and the that everyone within the TEC has Cover Story - Page 12 Government, Department of Defense or Spc. Randy Lemke, combat engi- Department of the Army. to thank them for their service U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. volunteered to be an Army Reserve neer from the 492nd Combat En- Letters and comments are wel- and to identify any issues that we This arrangement has never been Soldier. I challenge everyone to gineer Company, attaches cables comed by the staff and should be sent to: The 412th Theater Engineer Com- might be able to resolve for them used in a theater of operations perform their duties to best of their to a crane before lifting metal mand, Public Affairs office, ATTN: or future Soldiers deploying in before, thus is a first for an Army abilities; and improve their skills, sheeting into place at Forward Inside the Castle, 1265 Porters Chapel Operating Base Miami, National Rd., Viscksburg, MS 39180-5790 or harm’s way. Reserve unit to be tasked with such knowledge, and physical fitness Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif. e-mail [email protected] or A great event occurred a a mission. every day. Many thanks for what you Photo by Sgt. Brent C. Powell, phone 601-631-6103. 204th Public Affairs Detachment During Operation Sand Castle 2009. 21 few weeks ago in Afghanistan My Deputy Commander, Brig. do for the U.S. Army! which brought pride to the 412th Gen. Bill Buckler and Command Fall/Winter 10 5 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle her,’ just in case she had suffered any spinal injuries,” said McLaughlin. Command Sergeant Major’s Corner The Soldiers needed to act quickly because electrical wires from the telephone pole had landed on the car. would like to wish everyone a reducing our Non-Participants. the next generation of NCOs will Once he was sure that the woman could be moved, very Happy New Year. We just Knowing ahead of time that a also be incapable of performing McLaughlin and the other Soldiers pried the car doors completed 2009, which was the Soldier needs to attend a NCOES those tasks. open and lifted her out of it. “Year of the Noncommissioned course and then subsequently Take care of the Soldiers you 1st Lt. Peter Torromeo, 368th Forward Support Com- I getting the Soldier enrolled in currently have because they are pany executive officer, directed traffic and performed Officer”. The formality of the “Year of the NCO” has ended, that course will reduce the NCOs of tomorrow. The crowd control until the police arrived. but not the spirit. The the number of NCOs not enlisted ranks are made up of “Their military training took over, and there was not NCO is vitally important enrolled. This type of NCOs and future NCOs. This one ounce of hesitation; they took charge of the situation in preparing our Soldiers attention to detail will pave means that we are the trainers and and there is no doubt in my mind they saved that young and units to deploy in the way for more of our future trainers of today’s Army. lady from further injury,” said Bristol Mayor Arthur J. support of the combatant NCOs to get promoted. The secretary of the Army Ward. commander during these Knowing the through established 2009 as the year of Ward was with the Soldiers at the American Legion times of date of the Soldier’s last the NCO, because the Army’s post at the time of the accident, and he witnessed the persistent conflict. NCOER will reduce our Noncommissioned Officer Corps rescue. photo illustration Ward gave each Soldier a key to the city and in a proc- With a new year late evaluations. Having has distinguished itself as the Mayor Arthur J. Ward, Bristol, Conn., reads Proclamation recognizing lamation during a ceremony in Connecticut on Nov., 4, many of us set goals for Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Flubacker the date of the worlds most accomplished group 368th Engineer Battalion Soldiers who saved a car accident victim. ourselves. I challenge Soldiers last weapons of military professionals. Let’s 2009; he said the city of Bristol and the accident victim all the NCOs within this qualification, APFT and Height continue this tradition into 2010 Mayor honors Soldiers were greatly indebted to the Soldiers for their quick ac- command to set one goal this year. Weight will improve the metrics as and beyond within this command. tion and compassionate character. Get to know your Soldiers. well. Finally, let’s incorporate safety for saving woman The 368th which is based in Londonderry, N.H. has Story and Photos by Let’s re-establish Leader books. It is the NCO’s job to provide into everything we do. Employ supported the City of Bristol’s Memorial Day events Sgt. 1st Class Mayra O’Neill-Dalton, since 2006. Maintaining a Leader book will trained, Soldiers to meet global the risk management process 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment help you to know your Soldiers. requirements across the full during mission planning, and “The Soldiers of the 368th are now Bristol residents There’s a section for Soldiers’ remind your Soldiers that vehicle ight Soldiers assigned to the 368th Engi- from afar; you are family,” Ward Said. personal data to include addresses, accidents remain the number one neer Battalion have been honored by the The following Soldiers and the ones mentioned ear- phone numbers, strip maps killer of Soldiers. No Soldier city of Bristol, Conn. for saving the life lier received keys to the city and were included in the to their homes, spouses and should die due to carelessness. of a woman who was involved in an auto proclamation for helping to save the woman: Spc. James I strongly believe that if a kids’ names and birthdates. The Live the NCO Creed and the Eaccident, Memorial Day weekend. Dixon, Spc. Kurtis Haberman, Spc. Christine Bashor, “Soldier knows that his or her needs are spirit of the “Year of the NCO” The Soldiers responded to the crash while pre- Spc. Christopher Elliott and Spc. Brett Haynes. section also has uniform sizes, being addressed then that Soldier will will live on forever. paring for Memorial Day activities at an American weapons qualification, Army attend Battle Assemblies” Legion post on May 24, 2009. Physical Fitness Test information, --Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Flubacker last Noncommissioned Officer Another vehicle cut the woman off while she was Evaluation Report through date, driving her automobile near the post during slick counseling dates and date of rank. road conditions. The car flipped several times and Then there’s a section on training spectrum of operations. The Army hit a telephone pole. to track Noncommissioned Officer Reserve is America’s main source Spc. Natasha Cunningham, a firefighter with Education System courses and of shared military and civilian skills the 468th Engineer Company, said she saw smoke Army Warrior Tasks and Drills. and capabilities. By taking care of coming out of the flipped car so she quickly alerted Properly maintained Leader Books Soldiers we’ll be able to tap into her fellow Soldiers. Sgt. James McLaughlin, a team will positively affect our metrics. this valuable resource to support chief with the 339th Engineer Detachment and a I strongly believe that if a Soldier and defend the Nation. Boston area firefighter was among the Soldiers who knows that his or her needs are The best way to lead is by responded. being addressed then that Soldier example. If we’re not proficient at “I first needed to make sure the woman was Mayor Arthur J. Ward, Bristol, Conn. presents Spc. Brett Haynes, 368th not severely injured, so I screamed ‘nobody touches Engineer Battalion with a Proclamation and a key to the city for his will attend Battle Assemblies, thus the most basic of Soldier tasks then efforts in helping to save a car accident victim.

6 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 7 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle

Soldiers of the 401st Multi-Role Bridge Company construct a bridge across the Tigris River near Hammam Al Alil, Iraq. The bridge saves coalition patrols 4 hours of travel time.

Soldiers of the 401st Multi-Role Bridge Company launch an interior bay into the Tigris River during a bridging project in Iraq. Taming the Tigris 844th Engineer Battalion Soldiers conquered one of their biggest challenges in Iraq

Story by Sgt. Amber M. Latham, Public Affairs, Task Force 844, and Staff Sgt. Connie Cavaunaugh, 401st MRBC It’s a proud feeling when the bridge is “complete and you see all the cars waiting to Al Alil saves coalition patrols 4 hours of travel use our 401st bridge,” iver currents of 6 to 7 feet per second, and the time. constant flow of debris into their boat’s hydro The engineers traveled 300 miles north from the -- Pfc. Christopher Allen jets, were some of the challenges that Soldiers Victory Base Complex to take on what amounted of the 401st Multi-Role Bridge Company to be their biggest effort since they arrived in Iraq. Rfaced when they constructed a bridge across the Tigris The 523rd Engineer Company constructed a River in Iraq. road leading to the water’s edge which allowed The quick thinking and diligent work of the for the placement of vehicles. The 523rd also dug maintenance crew enabled the boats to function well holes for the anchorage system, and placed gravel A Soldier from the 401st Multi-Role Bridge enough for the unit to complete the mission in two hours along the shoreline to increase the stability of the Company cleans debris from of his boat’s and 45 minutes. slip. hydro jets during a bridging project across “It was just another bridge. We put bridges in. That’s “It’s a proud feeling when the bridge is the Tigris River in Iraq. what we do.” said Sgt. Brandon Weston, of Charleston, complete and you see all the cars waiting to use S.C. our 401st bridge,” said Pfc. Christopher Allen of The bridge which runs across the gap near Hammam River Falls, Wis. 8 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 9 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle

“What Brendan has learned from the Army, and taught my kids and their friends, is amazing. I’m very proud of him,” said Patrick McClellan, five- he day started like any other in the United year friend of Spc. Brendan Quinn, 302nd Maneu- States. Children ate breakfast as parents ver Enhancement Brigade. prepared them for school then kissed them Leslie Leblanc, sister of Sgt. Joseph Leblanc, goodbye before they got on their school HHC, 368th Engineer Battalion, said she is proud buses.T No one would have thought that Sept., 11, of her brother. 2001 would become as historic as the Japanese raid “It’s a great thing; Joe puts people ahead of him- on Pearl Habor Dec., 7, 1941, but it did that fateful self. He has a lot to give,” Leslie Leblanc said. day. A representative of The Red Sox Corporation told When the second World Trade Center tower col- the crowd how grateful the organization is for the Soldiers lapsed, the horrific screams and cries spoke volumes sacrifice that the military members are making. to the world that the country would never again be “When one member serves, the family serves. We (the Red Sox) are hitting them out of the park for re-enlist at you,” said Meg Vaillancourt, Senior Vice President and Corporate Relations and Executive Director of the Red Sox Foundation. Fenway Near the end of ceremony, some spectators found it hard to hold back tears as Taps echoed throughout the historic ball park in remembrance of those who Pvt. Joseph Dascoli, 716th Engineer Company, raises his right hand while reciting his Oath of commitment to support and defend the Constitution made the ultimate sacrifice, a poignant reminder of Park of the United States during a group reenlistment at Boston’s Fenway on Sept. 11 that solemn day eight years ago. Park on Sept. 11. Story and photo by Sgt. 1st Class Melissa N. Christmas, Sgt. Zachary Bolcome, 342nd MP Det, renders salute during the playing of the National Anthem in a reenlistment ceremony held Army Reserve Career Counselor at Boston’s Fenway Park on Sept. 11, 2009. the same. Fast forward eight years to Sept., 11, 2009. Much has changed, but on this overcast day in Boston, a group of Army Reserve Soldiers reminded us that there are still people who have not forgotten. As the group of more than 20 Soldiers marched onto his- toric Fenway Park, families and friends looked on. The Soldiers stood at attention as Brig. Gen. Oscar DePriest, Commander, 804th Medical Brigade, De- vens, Mass., administered the Oath of re-enlistment, and the Soldiers swore to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic”. “If I could’ve reenlisted indefinitely, I would have,” said Spc. Matthew Mele, B Company, 533rd Mainte- nance, Devens, Mass. Some family members expressed their support and admiration based on how their Soldiers have New England Army Reserve Soldiers, march in formation at Boston’s Fenway Park in preparation of a group reenlistment ceremony. The grown and changed. ceremony was held on Sept. 11 to memorialize the victims and to show the Soldiers’ commitment to continue serving their country.

10 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 11 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle

Combat Engineers take advantage of technical and tactical training at NTC during… Operation Sand Castle

Sgt. Andrew Stang, a carpenter from the 492nd Combat Engineer Company uses a cordless drill to tighten bolts on top of a Quonset hut at FOB 2009 Miami during Operation Sand Castle 2009. “I’m very proud of how these guys performed,” of nuts and bolts to make the structure safe and sturdy. said Sgt. 1st Class Dan Toleno, a platoon sergeant “These metal buildings pose a special challenge,” said with the 492nd Eng. Co. “All of my NCOs have Toleno. “There are so many bolts and holes in each of the Story by Sgt. Brent C. Powell, 204th PAD been deployed to combat areas, and to see them panels that just getting them lined up perfectly is diffi- rills drilled, saws sawed and hammers take the lessons learned from their combat experi- cult.” hammered during Operation Sand Castle ence and apply those to a very realistic battlefield Despite the challenges and temperatures that exceeded 2009 as more than 40 combat engineers here is fantastic.” 100 degrees, the engineers were able to repair the build- constructed metal buildings at Forward “The convoy today was ing to a point where Soldiers can DOperating Base Miami deep in the heart of the Na- the first convoy I’ve ever once again train in it. tional Training Center. been on,” said Pvt. Shaun D. I’ve never worked on a metal “The job here has definitely been The Army Reservists from the 492nd Combat Timmers, a masonry special- building“ before, so I’ve learned a lot different than what I’m used to,” said Engineer Company, 367th Engineer Battalion left ist from Belle Plaine, Minn. from the experience” Pfc. Dillon J. Nelson, interior Forward Operating Base Santa Fe early that day in “It was fun, exciting and I -- Pfc. Dillon J. Nelson, electrician, 492nd Engineer Com- a 12-vehicle convoy bound for FOB Miami. They learned a lot about how a pany, “I’ve never worked on a metal Engineers from the 492nd Combat Engineer Company, Mankato, were tasked to repair one Quonset Hut, and con- convoy is conducted.” building before, so I’ve learned a lot Minn. use a crane to lift metal sheeting into place as they construct Quonset Huts at Forward Operating Base Miami on July 14th during struct two more from the ground up. The Soldiers conducted a brief after action re- from the experience.” Operation Sand Castle 2009. Early into the mission, the convoy encountered a view once the convoy got to the jobsite, then they OSC brings together reserve combat engineer units simulated enemy ambush that included a road side began making repairs to the wind damaged metal from around the United States and gives them the bomb. The Soldiers neutralized the enemy with no Quonset Hut. They used a large crane to navigate opportunity to hone their tactical and engineering skills in casualties, and then cleared the area of additional the building’s metal panels into place. Once the a desert environment. threats before continuing on. panels were aligned the engineers used hundreds

12 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 13 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle Vicksburg High cadets rendered the same courtesy on Indiana Avenue. “I feel a level of comfort, like they’re going to be alright,” said Donna Hennson after her son and husband boarded the bus. The Soldiers are part of a 412th element known as the Deployable Command Post led by 412th Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. William M. Buckler Jr. This is the first fielding of a DCP by the 412th since the organization converted from an Engineer Command to a Theater Engineer Command as part of the Army’s new modular force structure. The DCP’s new motto is building history, Buck- ler told the reserve center crowd. “As we go over and do something that has never been done in the Corps of Engineer formation before, I truly believe...this is an integral part of our Photo by Pfc. Devin Wood, 412th TEC Public Affairs national security,” Buckler said. Spc. Jermaine Washington comforts his girlfriend, Jasmine Williams In a light hearted moment during his remarks, during DCP One’s departure ceremony at the George A. Morris Army Buckler referenced the fortune from a cookie he got Reserve Center in Vicksburg, Miss., on Aug. 21, 2009. after a recent visit to a Chinese restaurant. pulled from his wallet. “You will take a pleasant journey to a place far He then told the Soldiers that the deployment would be away,” Buckler read from the tiny slip of paper he Photo by Maj. Jesse Stalder 412th TEC Public Affairs pleasant only if they diligently communicated with their The Vicksburg Fire Department holds up an American Flag while the DCP One bus headed for Camp Shelby passes below with a police escort. loved ones back here in the states. Maj. Gen. Paul F. Hamm, the 412th TEC Commander, said he was proud of the Soldiers, their families and the he 412th Theater Engineer Command’s Mobilization Farewell Ceremony in community for their commitment to the nation. Vicksburg was much like days of old when “Without this support we would not be able to fight and Vicksburg, Miss. the Spartans sent their warriors off to fight, win our nation’s wars,” Hamm said. “The communities accordingT to Col. David Hollands the 412th’s chief of and families are the bond between our Soldiers, the Army staff. and our great nation.” and the 412th TEC The Vicksburg community came together on Aug. Other dignitaries in attendance included Mississippi 21, 2009 at the George A. Morris Army Reserve U.S. senator Roger Wicker and Vicksburg mayor, Paul E. gave DCP One... Center, and on Indiana Ave., to honor more than 60 Winfield. Wicker said the U.S. has no desire to control U.S. Army Reservists departing for Afghanistan. Afghanistan, but that a troop presence was necessary to “My motivation level for this deployment went up prevent another attack like Sept., 11. Winfield after seeing that,” said Staff Sgt. Lance Felton. “I felt expressed his gratitude to the departing Soldiers for the A warriors’ appreciated.” sacrifices they’ve made while serving the country. The Vicksburg police escorted the vehicles The reservists headed to Camp Shelby where they spent transporting the Soldiers down Indiana Ave. through 37 days conducting specialized Soldier survival skills an arch formed with two fire truck ladders and a training in preparation for the overseas mission. They left send off giant American flag, courtesy of the Vicksburg Fire Camp Shelby Sept., 27 and arrived in Afghanistan in early Story by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Eugene, 412th TEC Deparment. October. Students from Agape Montessori Christian DCP One became the Joint Force Engineer Command- Academy, who recently adopted the departing Afghanistan during an activation ceremony on Oct. 15. Soldiers, took a day off from school to say goodbye. The command coordinates all engineer operations in Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets from Afghanistan. Vicksburg Warren Central High School presented Photo by Maj. Jesse Stalder, 412th TEC Public Affairs Sgt. Roger Ashley says goodbye to his son Jacob prior to leaving their colors as the DCP left the 412th headquarters. for Camp Shelby as part of DCP One.

14 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 15 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle

Davis said thoughts of returning to Bristol – along with his fierce desire to honorably serve his coun- Soldier proud try every day – constantly accom- pany him in Afghanistan. “The support I’ve gotten from my family and friends back there, of Army’s work the letters and care packages, they’ve meant a lot to me,” Davis said. “So I really look forward to in Afghanistan seeing them when I get back home. After I do all I can here.” Story by Roger Brown, Bristol Herald Courier, Bristol, Va. It is a day Melissa Davis awaits and deep longing is one Melissa anxiously as she spends this Davis shares at home in Bristol, holiday season putting together a some 7,195 miles away from her videotape for Juston, containing newly wed husband. Staff Sgt. Juston Davis and his wife, Melissa. photo illustration footage of his family’s holiday They married May 30 but have celebrations and personal hortly before heading yet to have a honeymoon, because invaded that country. While been hard for me to do a lot of messages from loved ones. to Afghanistan for his of Juston’s training commitments politely declining to talk much [comparing],” Davis said. “We’re going to hang his second military deploy- leading up to his Afghan deploy- about his current roles (other than “It’s been hectic. But, in some Christmas stocking up for him this ment in several years, ment. noting that he provides assistance ways, this has been better than year, as always, so he can see it SU.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. “It is especially hard right to Army engineering crews), Davis my last deployment. With the on video,” Melissa said. “Because Juston Davis of Bristol , Va., now, because Juston’s right, this said he’s had little time to compare regular e-mail and calls I’vebeen it’ll mean even more to us this time told the Bristol Herald Courier he is always the time of year that the two tours. able to make, I’ve been able to next year. When Juston canhang his would go with pride in his service he really loves sharing with me, “We’ve been so busy and tied have better communications back own stocking with us. – and longing, for his newlywed Kayla and everyone he loves,” up since we’ve gotten here, it’s home.” wife and loving stepdaughter, Melissa said. who celebrated Thanksgiving on Then, with a laugh, she said: Ulchi FreEdom Guardian 2009 Thursday without him. “He doesn’t even mind shopping Story and photo by Pfc. David Thompson, 326th MPAD Now weeks into his tour inside with me on Black Fridays. In fact, here is on the same page.” Afghanistan, Davis said he has he loves that, too.” he South Korean military took An exercise like UFG shows the Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Roger Ashley even more pride in his mission – Staff Sgt. Juston Davis in Afghanistan But, Melissa said, “we’re the lead for the first time in significance of the U.S. presence even as he misses his wife, Melis- hanging in there back here, as Tthe thirty-four year history of in South Korea, according to Col. sa, and stepdaughter Kayla more “But even in the short time I’ve best we can, because we know exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian Derek Sentinella, Chief of the 412th with each passing day. been deployed here,” Davis said, what Juston is doing is good for while U.S. Army Soldiers played a TEC’s Korea Forward. “If you take “I do find my mind wander- “I’m proud to say we are making a our country. And we know he’s supporting role. today’s situation across the world, ing now and then,” Davis said by difference here, slowly but surely. doing good things over in that Maj. Gen. Paul F. Hamm, Com- we have contingency operations in phone from eastern Afghanistan, The work we’re doing building an in- country, too. He’s handling things mander of the 412th Theater Engi- Iraq, we have contingency opera- a time zone nine-and-a-half hours frastructure and organization is going there with bravery and pride and neer Command, visited South Korea tions in Afghanistan and your third ahead of Bristol. to make a big difference in Afghani- we’re going to do the same here during the August 2009 exercise to possible contingency as of today “This would have been our first stan as a country. for him, too.” meet with U.S. and Korean military is Korea,” said Sentinella. “So part Thanksgiving and our first Christ- “So, it’s nice to know I’m a part Davis’ tour in Afghanistan, officials. of my mission over here is to set mas together as a family,” he said. of that. And that I’ve been a part of scheduled to end next summer, “It is vital to keep the dialogue conditions to give the soldiers of the “And it’s especially tough because that,” Davis said. “I’m very proud of comes five years after he served Maj Gen. Paul F. Hamm, 412th TEC and relations with everyone over here TEC good training opportunities as Commander, during a meeting at The Thanksgiving has always been my that.” with the Reserve in Iraq, shortly Republic of Korea Army Headquaters intact,” said Hamm. “And it is im- well as prepare them to go to war in favorite time of year.” His mixture of resolute pride after U.S. forces successfully in South Korea on Aug 17, 2009. portant to make sure that everybody the KTO and beyond.” 16 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 17 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle

Soldiers from the 459th Engineer Company transport vehicles across a river at Fort Chaffee Ark., with a raft they constructed utilizing Improved Ribbon Bridge Sections.

Mary Ellen Hadelman (center), Chairperson, Connecticut Automotive Retailer Association, signs the Employer Partnership Agree- ment prior to James T. Fleming (left), President, Connecticut Automotive Retailers Association, and Maj. Gen. James R. Sholar (right), Deputy Commander, USARC. The 459th Engineer Company perfects... The time honored art of river crossing Army Reserve and Connecticut Auto Retailers Association sign Employers Partnership Story and Photo by Spc. Sam Conrad 326th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Initiative hen George Wash- missions, according to Staff Sgt. diers built a raft using a metal bridge Story and Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mayra O’Neill-Dalton, 362nd MPAD inton crossed Timothy Wilfong, a section ser- sections which they dropped into the the Delaware, he geant in the company’s bridge river from trucks, then they loaded he Army Reserve and employment considerations. relationships between the Army Wsure could’ve used the platoon. the vehicles and equipment onto the the 270 members of “The Connecticut auto dealers will Reserve and civilian employers. 459th Engineer Company The unit received a mis- raft and ferried their cargo to the other the Connecticut benefit greatly from connecting with More than 300 employers are out of West Virginia. sion to transport vehicles and side of the river within the required 20 Automotive Retailers this pool of skilled military veterans,” currently participating in the initia- The 459th specializes in put- equipment using a six float ribbon minutes. AssociationT signed the Army said James Fleming, president of the tive. ting troops and equipment across raft in 20 minutes or less across “We make it look easy but we’ve Reserve Employer Partnership Connecticut Automotive Retailers Maj. Gen. James R. Sholar, rivers, a dangerous but important the Arkansas river at Fort Chaffee, been drilling, and drilling and Initiative agreement during a Association. “The interview is just deputy commander of the U.S. mission throughout military Ark., on July, 15, 2009. drilling. It takes leadership and good ceremony at the Hartford the first step to employment; how- Army Reserve Command, signed history. “We can haul anything in the motivated Soldiers to get it done,” Convention Center, on Nov., 5, ever, veterans will still have to secure the EPI agreement with Fleming River crossing is a capabil- Army’s inventory,” said Wilfong. said Wilfong. 2009. the job on their own merit.” and Ms. Mary Ellen Hadelman, ity that’s vital to maneuver “From a tank retriever down to a The Soldiers can quickly recover The agreement gives Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, chief of chairwoman of the Connecticut commanders who encounter HUMVEE.” the bridge and move to a new point qualified Soldiers interview the Army Reserve launched the Ini- Automotive Retailers Association. water obstacles when planning To accomplish the task, the Sol- as needed. opportunities and possible tiative in spring of 2008 to facilitate 18 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 19 Inside the Castle Inside the Castle A reason to

During Operation Sand Castle 2009,

3 points of contact Sgt. Maj. Benny Hubbard was the... method run Safety

Source: Construction Safety Association of Ontario on the job Story by Staff Sgt. Rauel Tirado 204th PAD safety officer for keeping the site was out there with the Soldiers wear- safe. ing a safety vest and ensuring safety As the 412th Theater Engineer measures were in place.” Thirty thousand runners prepare to run the 26th Annual Army Ten-Miler race in Washington, D.C., Oct., 6, 2009. Photo by Spc. David Thompson Command’s safety officer dur More than 1,800 Soldiers gt. Maj. Benny ing the exercise, Hubbard trav- assigned to the 411th Engineer Bri- Story by Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Eugene, 412th TEC, PA Hubbard made an eled to different sites looking for gade took part in the exercise which unannounced visit to a safety violations, and to recognize was overseen by the 412th TEC at airborne shuffle the entire way, I’m comrades, others for Cancer, you construction site dur- Soldiers who practice safety. Fort Irwin’s National Training Center not stopping.” name the cause and there was Sing Operation Sand Castle 2009, “The first thing I look for is in California, a desert environment fter Staff Sgt. Lovato found a source of someone there wearing a t-shirt and he noticed Soldiers from that Soldiers are wearing proper similar to Iraq and Afghanistan. Timothy Lovato motivation when he was less than supporting it,” said Lovato. the 492nd Engineer Company equipment such as Kevlar, gloves “Many of the Soldiers here are crossed the 8 mile two miles from the finish line. He As he got closer to the finish using a safety technique that and eye protection while working soon deploying overseas,” said Hub- marker during said he looked to his right and saw a line Lovato got another dose of minimizes a worker’s chance of with equipment,” said Hubbard. bard. “Safety and risk management Athe Army Ten-Miller in double amputee running on artificial motivation. slipping, or losing their balance “Next, I make sure they are is the key to mitigating injuries and Washington, D.C., he knew he legs. The look on the man’s face “I heard a voice saying to me while moving on structures such working on the mission, and I casualties.” was in new territory. This was was a picture of pain and willpower, ‘come on, we’re almost there,’ I as scaffolds or ladders. speak with first line supervisors The chances of heat casualties the first time that Lovato had according to Lovato. looked up and saw a woman, maybe The technique, known as on ensuring safety measures are in increased with daily temperatures run more than eight miles. “I knew I couldn’t stop now, that 25 years old. She had on a t-shirt that the “3 points of contact method,” place.” averaging more than 100 degrees. Prior to the race on Oct. guy was running for something,” said said, ‘I’m running for my deceased requires the worker to have both Richard Cunningham, the U.S. “Hydrate, hydrate and hydrate,” 6, 2009, he told his five Lovato. “It seemed like everyone brother,’” said Lovato. feet and one hand on the struc- Army Reserve Command’s safety said Hubbard. “I can’t stress enough teammates from the 412th TEC there had a cause they were running The 412th TEC’s team finished ture when moving, according to officer accompanied Hubbard on on hydrating, and first line leaders are that he was concerned about his for.” fifth in the Army Reserve men’s the the surprise visits. responsible for ensuring that they are ability to complete the entire Lovato said he competed in the category, approximately 32 minutes Occupational Safety and Health “I’ve been generally impressed mitigating risk.” event without walking part of event because he always wanted behind the first place team. Lovato’s Administration. with what I’ve seen,” said Cun- The exercise was considered a the way. to, but on race day he noticed that time was 01:42:45. Hubbard gave one Soldier ningham. “The last unit we visited, safety success since there were no “Eight miles is the wall I’m many of the 30,000 participants were “I’d like to beat that time if I get a safety token for practicing the Soldiers had on the proper accidents involving lose of limbs or going to run into, but I’m not competing for reasons that seemed the opportunity to run again,” said good safety on the job, and he equipment, and the Additional fatalities, according to Maj. Chester going to stop,” said Lovato. “I more meaningful than his. Lovato. “…and yes if I run again I’d commended the additional duty Duty Safety Officer for the unit Price the 412th TEC’s safety officer. don’t care if I have to do the “Some were running for fallen definitely pick a cause to run for.” 20 Inside the Castle Fall/Winter 10 21 Inside the Castle

In support of Patriot Warrior

Story and photo by Spc. Timothy R. Koster 362nd MPAD oldiers from the 368th of the hands on MOS training Engineer Battalion conducted they would like to do. Stheir annual Extended Combat “Here they are able to Training Exercise in support of get back to the basics,” said Patriot Warrior at Fort McCoy, Wis, Speckman. Aug. 7, through Aug., 29, 2009. Lt. Col. Steven Grady, While the ECT allows Reserve Commander of the 368th agrees Soldiers to refine their military with Speckman. He believes that operational specialty skills, the everything that was expected Patriot Warrior Exercise tested the from the battalion level and battalion’s deployment readiness. below operated as expected or For 22 days, the engineers better than expected. Especially, conducted different exercises based as many of the Soldiers in the on their MOS while living on a battalion are new Soldiers who contingency operations location. joined in the middle of a war They lived like they were deployed knowing quite well that they overseas. The battalion made the will be deployed into a combat experience as real as possible by situation. implementing real world procedures The explosion that rocked the fort. This While ECTs are nothing such as body armor and kevlar at giant smoke cloud was created when the new for Reserve Soldiers, the engineers of the 424th and HHC detonated all times and mandatory convoy several pounds of explosives at one of Fort training the 368th Engineer manifests. McCoy’s demolition ranges. Over the course Battalion received from this The 368th consists of four of the day the engineers detonated five ex- year’s exercise will surely be companies: the 424th Vertical plosives at the range. remembered as the battalion Engineer Company out of Rutland, prepares for deployment to Vt., Headquarters and Headquarters readiness. Afghanistan in 2010. For several Company out of Londonderry, N.H., Also, for the first time at the veteran Soldiers in the battalion, the 338th out of Attleboro, Mass., battalion level, all three firefighter this was some of the most and the 716th out of Somersworth, units came together and conducted realistic training they have ever N.H. live burn training. gone through. The different training consisted of Command Sgt. Maj. Karen demolition, construction of roads and Speckman, senior enlisted leader of Maj Gen. Paul F. Hamm, 412th TEC Commander, flying over South a retention pond, building a mock the 368th Engineer Battalion, was Korea during exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian 2009. Hamm spent village along a convoy route, and pleased with the overall quality of the two weeks in Korea meeting with U.S. and South Korean military to wrap it all up there was a three training. Speckman said that that at officials. day field training exercise for all the reserve center the Soldiers do a the Soldiers to test their deployment lot of administration work and none Photo by Pfc. David Thompson, 326th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment. 22 Inside the Castle