THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR U.S. ARMY GARRISON FORT HUNTER LIGGETT/PARKS RESERVE FORCES TRAINING AREA The Golden Guidon

Fire Prevention Installation fire departments, community partners reduce fire risks and battle summer fires

www.home.army.mil/liggett | www.home.army.mil/parks Fall 2019 Contents

Commander’s Message 3 THE GOLDEN GUIDON Official Command Publication of Chaplain’s Corner 4 U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hunter Liggett/ Parks Reserve Forces Training Area In the Spotlight 7 FHL COMMAND TEAM Spencer Larson, FHL Public Works Col. Charles Bell, Fellows Program Garrison Commander Angelia Pinto, Deputy to the Garrison Commander Garrison Highlights 8 Lt. Col. Jason McKenzie, Deputy Garrison Commander Command Sgt. Mark Fluckiger, Leader Engagements 13 Garrison Command Sergeant Major

PRFTA COMMAND TEAM Community Engagements 14 Lt. Col. Jennifer L. Nolan, Garrison Commander Renee T. Young, Training Highlights 17 Deputy to the Garrison Commander Command Sgt. Major Jason B. Johnson, Garrison Command Sergeant Major Soldier & Employee Bulletin 18

GOLDEN GUIDON STAFF Amy Phillips, Public Affairs Officer Features Cindy McIntyre, Public Affairs Specialist Suicide Loss and Prevention 5 The Golden Guidon is an authorized Hispanic Heritage Month 10 quarterly publication for the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hunter Liggett Dutch Friend Honors American Soldier 11 community. Content in this publication is not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Dept. of the Army, or Fort Hunter Liggett/ COVER PHOTO: Firefighters and firefighters-in-training conducted wildland fire Parks Reserve Forces Training Area. burns at Parks Reserve Forces Training Area to reduce the risk of destructive uncontrolled fires while providing a safe training environment for the Alameda County Fire Department Recruit Academy. Participating agencies included SUBMISSIONS PRFTA, Alameda County, San Ramon, and Livermore/Pleasanton Fire Depart- Submit story ideas, photographs, and ments. Photo by Alameda County Fire Department. other information of interest to the FHL/ PRFTArea community to the Public Affairs Officeusarmy.hunterliggett.imcom-central. list.fhl-pao @mail.mil or call 831-386-2690.

FEEDBACK WELCOMED COMMAND INFORMATION RESOURCES Help us create a relevant and meaningful www.home.army.mil/liggett product to meet your information needs. www.home.army.mil/parks Email or submit ICE comment: www.dvidshub.net/unit/FHL-PAO https://ice.disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=- www.facebook.com/FortHunterLiggett card&sp=113492&s=442&dep=*DoD&sc=2 www.flickr.com/photos/forthunterliggett COMMANDER’S MESSAGE

Greetings Team Fort As my commitment to en- Hunter Liggett and Parks Re- sure professional development, serve Forces Training Area! Plans, Analysis and Integration There has been much good Office (PAIO) is organizing a news and many accomplish- Strategic Thinking and Lead- ments at our installations and ers Offsite to assist garrison our neighboring communities leaders in developing clear in the last couple of months. organizational approach for The Fort Hunter Liggett and maximum efficiency through Parks Reserve Forces Training strategy, problem solving and Area, Garrison Commanders planning for future operations. and Command Sergeant Major The command team remains Garrison Commander attended the August Installation committed to your welfare. We Col. Charles R. Bell Directorate – Readiness Confer- are observing two important ence at Fort Riley, Kansas, where themes in September - Patriot we reviewed several key topics, Day and Suicide Prevention crisis is often brief—less than 10 one of note includes our role in Month. The events in the news minutes. Putting time and dis- support of the Strategic Sup- these days are a testament to tance between a suicidal person port Area (SSA) concept during taking your operational security and firearms or medications Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). and anti-terrorism training seri- may save a life. Storing medica- The installation deputies, ously. Make the time to educate tions and firearms safely every along with the 63rd Readiness your family and friends. The mass day is an effective way to help Division leadership, attended the shooting in Gilroy brings it very prevent suicide. I urge everyone Governor’s Military close to home for us in California to take the appropriate steps Council Summit in Sacramento. and I strongly everyone to remain to reduce the risk for suicide at The Summit drew stakeholders vigilant and report any suspicious your workplace and at home. from across the state and from activity to the authorities. We have a special guest all services to discuss challeng- To honor those that perished speaker for Suicide Prevention es and best practices for their and served during the terrorist training this month. Kevin Hines respective installations and attack on Sept. 11, 2001, FHL’s attempted to end his life by jump- mission sets. Lt. Col. McKenzie annual Patriot Day Observance ing off the Golden Gate Bridge, and Renee Young gained a will coincide with the last plane and is now a renowned suicide wealth of knowledge and ideas crash into a field in Shanksville, prevention and mental health ad- to continue moving the ball down Pennsylvania. Our nation was vocate. I hope you will have some the field of readiness for our and continues to be impacted by useful takeaways from his story. two garrisons and surrounding events of that day. We mourn, we The health, safety, and communities. They also met support each other, we remem- well-being of our installations with several California State ber, but most importantly, we are and our military community Legislators while in Sacramento not defeated! As Chaplain Mar- are essential to me and the to discuss our ongoing efforts shall’s message on page 4 says, readiness of the total force. The in infrastructure, mission read- “Live as one who is victorious!” garrisons have many resources iness, and energy resilience. This year’s Suicide Prevention available to support you and We continually engage elect- Month theme, “Small Steps Save your family when in need, so ed officials to garner support for Lives,” focuses on safety precau- please count both the Command some of our challenges. I’m sure tions that service members and Teams at FHL and PRFTA and you’ve all noticed the road work their families can put in place the chaplain teams respec- on Jolon Road. This is a result of at home to reduce the risk for tively among your resources. the community and the garrison suicide. The majority of military Take care yourselves and each leadership engagement with con- suicide deaths involve a firearm. other. Thank you for your service. gressional and county officials, In addition, medications are the and they have pulled through to most common method of non-fa- secure funding for the ongoing tal suicide attempts. A suicidal road improvement project.

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 3 CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

By Chaplain Levi Marshall, LIVE AS ONE Have you ever heard the saying “When life throws you WHO IS VICTORIOUS! lemons, make lemonade”? This is an awesome response to setbacks, disappointments mation of our victory - so never as sheep to be slaughtered.’ and losses. However, it is quit and never accept defeat! “No, in all these things we are easier said than done. Romans 8:31-39 says, “What, more than conquerors through Unfortunately, human beings then, shall we say in response him who loved us. For I am con- naturally think more negatively to these things? If God is for vinced that neither death nor about life than positively. In us, who can be against us? He life, neither angels nor demons, fact most research will tell who did not spare his own Son, neither the present nor the you that around 80% of our but gave him up for us all — how future, nor any powers, neither thoughts are negative (sup- will he not also, along with him, height nor depth, nor anything posedly tied into our fight or graciously give us all things? else in all creation, will be able to flight mechanisms). Whatever “Who will bring any charge separate us from the love of God the reason, we do not have to against those whom God has cho- that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” remain subjected to our current sen? It is God who justifies. Who No matter what the enemy thoughts and behavior patterns. then is the one who condemns? throws at you: whether you’ve Most thoughts and behav- No one. Christ Jesus who died — just had another setback chas- iors are reflexive; we say and more than that, who was raised ing your dreams, been rejected do things before we realize to life — is at the right hand of by someone you love, faced it. Words become thoughts, God and is also interceding for us. tragedy, or you’re just feeling thoughts becomes behavior, “Who shall separate us from drained from the ups and downs behavior comes character. We the love of Christ? Shall trouble of life, remember that there must turn off the autopilot and or hardship or perscution or is a conqueror inside of you. become more intentional in our famine or nakedness or danger Live as one who is victorious! daily living by challenging our or sword? As it is written: ‘For Encourage yourself today! Live in thoughts and exposing ourselves your sake we face death all the abundant life that Christ pro- to a higher order thinking. day long; we are considered v i d e s a n d l o v e a s h a r d a s y o u c a n . At some point in our lives we all have felt the pressures of life and needed our spirit lifted. Life can be a struggle and can sometimes cause us to feel over- whelmed. Whatever we are strug- gling with, it helps to hear words of encouragement that remind us of how special we are and how unique we are in all the universe; that we are fearfully and wonder- fully made. (Psalms 139:31-39) In fact, Genesis 1:26-28 tells us we are made in the image of God. Listen, we all take knocks in life and have moments of “doom and gloom,” but trouble doesn’t last always. I’m going to let you in on a secret…we are already victorious and in God’s timing we will be blessed with the affir-

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 4 SEPTEMBER - Suicide Prevention Month

UNDERSTANDING THE INCOMPREHENSIBLE – SUICIDE LOSS AND PREVENTION

By Cindy McIntyre, bit of encouragement to get went throughout my time being FHL Public Affairs them to hold on longer. Before there is that those people were you know it this person starts so grateful that they didn’t Suicide is a Symptom of Pain to gain traction on their own.” complete suicide,” said Martinez. “They had a second chance.” Chaplain (Maj.) Levi Mar- Those Left Behind “Everyone needs to under- shall calls it “awfulizing.” stand that suicide is a medical “Everything is awful,” he Loved ones, friends and condition. The most important says of the often irrational co-workers often feel there was message that family, loved ones, state of mind that may in- something they did (such as an others have, is that they are not fluence some people to take argument), or didn’t do (too busy responsible for what happened. their own lives. “You fall into to listen) that caused the suicide. That guilt and stigma is what that state of darkness where “A lot of people feel guilty. They keeps us from talking about it.” everything is so awful, you ask say ‘How did I not see this?’ She said that clinical ‘Why would I want to live?” They take on blame, and we try depression affects about 11 For others, it may be a single to counsel them out of it.” million Americans. “Of those, event that triggers a suicidal im- The biggest unanswered about 35,000 die by suicide pulse, one with few warning signs. question is often “Why?” every year.” She believes the “That’s why we can’t predict it “We try to get them to talk vast majority of people with a lot of times,” said Marshall. about the loss, how they felt, to depression are untreated. For those who survive a verbalize it,” said Marshall. “It “A lot of times people don’t suicide attempt, nearly everyone can affect morale. The blame want to get the treatment that expresses gratitude that they game can go on. We can wrongly they need.” She said when they did not succeed, said Marshall. “I attribute our last actions with go on medication and join in hear it every time,” he said. “’I’m that person as a causation.” group therapy, they discover so glad I was unsuccessful.’” Family members are often they were not alone. “It was Suicide is now seen as a med- angry at the loved one who died really rewarding, so fulfilling ical issue, because the psychic by suicide for abandoning them. to see people get better.” and emotional pain is so over- “They have a right to be angry,” whelming that it short circuits said Marshall. “I believe the ones Continued on p6 rational thought. “Eventually left behind wrestle with so many the threshold comes down,” said unanswered questions. It’s a hu- Marshall. “You begin to think man tendency to make up an an- more rationally. Your coping skills swer so we can get to some state set in and you realize there is of closure or perceived closure.” a way to work through this.” Expectations we have of Suicide is a Medical Issue ourselves often add to the belief that life must end in order for Theresa Martinez, FHL the pain to end, he said. “Helping Alcohol & Drug Control Officer, them find possible solutions, said that suicide prevention is identifying their strengths and her passion. She was a coun- the good things about their selor while on active duty in lives – you’re able to redirect the Army inpatient psychiatry how they perceive themselves,” unit and saw many horrific said Marshall. “Sometimes results of attempted suicide. that’s all it takes is just a little “The strongest theme that

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 5 SEPTEMBER - Suicide Prevention Month

Continued from p5

Martinez said substance abuse dulls the emotional pain and contributes to suicidal behavior. “So reducing sub- stance abuse is a big factor,” she said. “Substance abuse is a symptom of pain. Suicide is a symptom of pain.”

Prevention Programs for Young People

Martinez said, “I see that prevention really starts with chil- dren. One of the long term goals I have is to understand early child- hood trauma and how that con- nection not only leads to suicide and substance abuse, but also dif- ferent medical conditions. That’s where, to me, prevention begins.” Other preventative measures include prescription take-back Army Substance Abuse days, allowing people to safely toward higher-risk behaviors. dispose of their medications “It’s very eye-opening,” said Program: 831-386-2727 that could wind up in the hands Martinez, who said many who of children, and Employee thought they were handling Fort Hunter Liggett Assistance Programs in the things well saw for themselves Chaplain (24 hrs): workplace provide no-cost, that they were walking a fine line confidential counseling ses- toward more risky behaviors. 925-719-3075 sions with licensed clinicians. Their commander expressed his “We need to be able to gratitude and presented her with Parks Reserve Forces talk about it, not avoid it,” a certificate. “They had zero Training Area Chaplain said Martinez. “We have to problems after the program was work through the pain, to feel implemented,” she said. “They’re (24 hrs): 925-605-8261 it, and you can’t do that if holding each other accountable.” you’re under the influence.” Martinez said, “The greatest One of her biggest success part of my job is it can change stories was when she taught not only one person, but that a drug and alcohol prevention person can change another, program to a unit of Marines at and it goes on and on. The best the Presidio of Monterey. Using form of praise I could receive is self-evaluations the Marines saw knowing I’m offering something where they were on a progression that changes peoples’ lives.”

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 6 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Spencer Larson was selected for a Career Path 29 Installation Management Developmental Assignment Spencer Larson Program, and spent February - April at Fort Hood, Texas GIS manager with DPW learning the ropes of emergency management under the Began working at FHL in DPTMS umbrella of programs. “Hands-on experience in February 2012 as a the installation Operations Center made me very well versed in emer- contractor and became gency operations and requirements at the garrison level,” said Larson. a DA Civilian in 2018. He attended their annual full-scale exercise planning meetings and was also given opportunities to learn about the other branches within DPTMS. “I particularly enjoyed my participation in the Civil- ian Leadership Development Program, which gives select employees at Fort Hood the chance to learn from installation leaders,” said Larson. He recommends the Developmental Assignment Program and says it is a valuable experience to expand your horizons.

2019 Fellows Program Participants

Courtesy photo

tom left), a plan specialist with PAIO has worked on the installation for 11 years and was skeptical about joining since she’s been at FHL for more than a decade and didn’t know how it would benefit her. After several months in the program, she is glad she did Photo by Patrick Dupree, Summer Hire and feels everyone should sign up for the program because it has given her different perspectives of how everyone’s roles fit By Patrick Dupree, Summer Hire together in a well-managed garrison. Douglas King, an electrician with DPW, The Fellows Program provides insight feels the program could open opportunities on how directorates work together to- and has shown him places he normally doesn’t ward one goal as the best training facility get to see as a part of his job, such as the for the Army Reserve and other military NEC and the Chapel. One thing that stands forces. Taking a helicopter ride over the out most to him is how devoted supervisors garrison is also one of the many adven- and garrison leaders are to their jobs, on turous activities the Fellows get to do. and off the clock. He hopes the knowledge The program is in its second year and he has gained will help him be more of an brings people from different work backgrounds asset to his team and move up in ranks. together to learn more about how the instal- The Fellows Program is for people who want lation operates and how their roles play a to become future leaders, see the big picture crucial part. There are various team building and learn how the pieces of the puzzle come exercises that the Fellows participates in together to complete one mission. Information throughout the year-long program to strength- on how to join the 2020 program is being dis- en their abilities to work together as a team. tributed in September. For more info, call 831- Sharon Usrey (pictured above at bot- 386-3253 or email [email protected].

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 7 GARRISON HIGHLIGHTS

USAG FORT HUNTER LIGGETT Fort Hunter Liggett received the Secretary of the Army Energy WINS ENERGY AWARD and Water Management Award at the Department of Energy Ex- change in Denver, Colorado, Au- gust 22. FHL is recognized for its multi-strategic Net Zero program effectiveness and an annual cost avoidance of a million dollars.

Learn more about the Army’s focus on energy resiliency and ef- ficiency at military installations, and how it all ties into readiness:

https://www.dvidshub.net/ news/337421/energy-ex- change-focused-military-instal- lations-energy-resiliency-effi- ciency-and-emerging-threats

https://www.dvidshub. net/news/333677/enhanc- (L-R) Jordan Gillis, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army Installations, Energy & Environment; Lt. Col. Jason McKenzie, FHL Deputy Commander; Gene Messina representing ing-readiness-moderniz- DPW; Melissa Foslien; and Brig. Gen. Joy Curriera, Director of Operations for the Assistant ing-armys-energy-posture Chief of Staff for Installation Management. (Courtesy photo)

The Fire Departments at both In August, FHL Fire Depart- FHL Housing has embarked on installations have been busy since ment and the DPW Roads & an ambitious project to improve May conducting prescribed burns, Grounds Crew (FHL dozer pictured energy efficiency in its 82 - fam training with partnering agencies above) supported the Mill Fire in ily housing units which include and supporting mutual aid part- the Big Sur area which closed the drilling and installation for the ners on local fires. Nacimiento-Fergusson Road for ground source (geothermal) heat (Above) In July, PRFTA sup- several weeks. Los Padres Na- pumps and replacement of ex- ported Alameda County and tional Forest, the lead agency re- terior doors (front, back, and CALFire for the Mid Fire along sponding to the Mill Fire, used Tusi laundry room) for better insu- Patterson Pass. Water Tender-44 Airfield as a helibase and Milipitas lation. (Photo by FHL Housing delivered over 50,000 gallons as the fire camp for six weeks. Office) of water to firefighting crews. (Photo by John Cummings, DPW) (Photo by PRFTA Fire Dept.) The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 8 GARRISON HIGHLIGHTS GARRISON HIGHLIGHTS

The FHL Emergency Operations PRFTA is partnering with the The FHL Qualified Recycling Pro- Center and Chapel received au- Alameda County Sheriff’s Office gram silent auctions help support dio/visual upgrades in August to and the Department of Justice to troop and family programs, such enhance mission readiness. Pic- establish a database connecting as the internet service at the Cy- tured is Navy Interior Communi- public safety agencies across the brary. Auctions are open to the cations Electrician Christopher state to share criminal histories, public and include scrap items Hill soldering a connector for a driver records, and other informa- such as tents, cots and railroad piece of equipment. He was part tion databases. (Courtesy photo ties. Call 831-386-2400 for more of the team from the Defense from PRFTA Emergency Services) info. (Photo by Bryan Lee, FMWR) Television-Audio Support Activ- ity. (Photo by Amy Phillips, FHL Public Affairs)

In July, PRFTA held its first -An The FHL Workforce Development FHL’s annual Summer Hire Pro- nual Leadership Offsite at Las Program Specialist & Chief, Civil- gram provides military and com- Positas College in Livermore, Cal- ian Personnel Division Talia Wes- munity youth hands-on experience ifornia focusing on the “Road to ley, provided a resume writing in various work environments 2021.” The PRFTA Commander Lt. class to participants of the Fel- while earning an income. They Col. Jennifer Nolan led the event lows Program, where they learned work in many garrison director- with staff from both installations how to tailor a resume when ap- ates providing valuable support in attendance. Teams evaluated plying for federal jobs. There are and learning skills they can use in Strategic and Operational objec- many resources located in the their personal and future profes- tives, and developed a 24-month Human Resources SharePoint for sional careers. (Photo by Bryan proactive plan to address current employees to reference. (Photo by Lee, FMWR) and future requirements. (Courte- Summer Hire Patrick Dupree) sy photo)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 9 FEATURES FEATURES Hispanic Americans Proudly Serving at Fort Hunter Liggett and Camp Parks

By Amy Phillips, FHL Public Affairs

There was no such a thing ican American.” my biggest influence to join the as a “Hispanic” until the 1970s. First Sgt. Eduardo Moreira, Army,” said Avila, who received To confuse things more, now the with A Company, 352nd Combat his direct commission in 2008. term “Hispanic” is often inter- Support Hospital at PRFTA said, His father is one of an estimat- changed with “Latino.” A quick in- “I have never really been con- ed 48,000 Puerto Ricans who ternet search will show that it can cerned with being branded a ‘His- served during the Vietnam War. be a contentious topic for those panic’… partly because I embrace According to a Department of lumped into this labeling. (and love) my American culture Defense article, more than 340 of “It wasn’t until I came to which is primarily influenced by them died in combat, and 17 were the U.S. mainland from Puerto my service to my country.” listed as missing in action. Rico that I became a ‘Hispan- Terminology aside, the Army “We are proud of our lan- ic’ or ‘Latino’,” said Chaplain takes pride in its diversity and guage, our food and our histo- (Maj.) Efrain Avila, Jr., the Parks honors it with ethnic observanc- ry…and being able to serve our Reserve Forces Training Area es. This year’s National Hispanic adopting nation to show Puerto (PRFTA) Family Life Chaplain Heritage Month theme is “A His- Rican determination and good- since 2015. “These days I tell tory of Serving Our Nation.” will,” said Avila. folks that I am half-Mexican since Hispanics include a diverse Maj. Alberto Pacheco with my better half is of Mexican group of people that share sim- the 84th Training Division at heritage. I’m good with that.” He ilar yet different versions of the PRFTA was born in El Paso, Texas, fondly refers to Puerto Rico as Spanish language. Mexico alone and is a third generation Mexi- “La Isla.” has 68 nationally recognized can-American. “I am most proud According to two Nation- languages, nearly all of which are of my family’s sense of loyalty to al Public Radio and Hispanic indigenous (non-Spanish). There the country,” said Pacheco. “It’s Network Magazine articles, the are also many cultural differences an unwritten rule that everyone term “Hispanic” was first used in the Hispanic community. should serve.” during President Richard’s Nix- Avila noticed some of these on’s administration in the 1970s. differences when he married his Continued on p12 The Census Bureau and the Pew Mexican-American wife who grew Research Center say the term up in Texas. There are different ‘Hispanic’ was first introduced in nuances to the Spanish they the 1980 Census Survey and its speak and their food is different. definition has evolved through “Puerto Rican rice and Mexican the years. rice are not the same,” said Avila. “I’ve never thought much He said that Puerto Ricans have a of the term ‘Hispanic,’ said Ivan very matriarchal society which is Garcia, a financial manager with not so evident in his wife’s Texan the Fort Hunter Liggett (FHL) culture. FMWR directorate. To him, “Lati- Avila is a second-generation no” makes sense because there is Soldier who was born and raised a place called Latin America but in Arecibo, Puerto Rico. He spent “I’ve never heard of a place called his adolescence in the Wash- Chaplain (Maj.) Efrain Avila, Jr. with his family at ‘Hispanolandia,’ so I just say Mex- ington, D.C. area. “My dad was the PRFTA Chapel. (Courtesy photo)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 10 FEATURES

DUTCH FRIEND HONORS AMERICAN SOLDIER Private Wilbur E. Grimes 363rd Regiment, 91st Infantry Division

Story and photos submitted by Vibeke Gootzen

My name is Vibeke Gootzen for a reburial in Margraten as Wilbur received the Bronze and I am 18 years old. I am a his brother was buried there. Star and Purple Heart. An student at the University College I had all this information but effort was made to get John Maastricht and I've always had still no photo. My father and I did removed from combat but I am a passion for military history. some research to find photos and not sure if that was successful. I live in the south of the we contacted people from the As mentioned before, Wilbur Netherlands where during WWII, village where Wilbur was born. was buried in first but was there were tough battles to liber- From the Harrison County reburied in Margraten. Now ate all villages. The Netherlands Historical Society, we received he rests next to his brother. American Cemetery and Memo- photos and newspaper articles. It About three years ago, I rial - the only American military is very touching to see a face in- came into contact with rela- cemetery in the Netherlands - is stead of just a name. We learned tives of Wilbur. During a holiday in a village called Margraten. that Wilbur died of wounds. in the USA with my family, I Here rest more than 8,000 U.S. He was waiting in a building met one of Wilbur's nephews soldiers who were killed in action in November 1944 to be relieved which was very special. in , Germany and the when a German mortar fire hit This summer, I went to Netherlands. There is also a wall the building. Wilbur was seriously Italy to see where Wilbur got with names of missing soldiers. injured. On the 24th of November, wounded. I followed the route Unique to this cemetery is he dictated a letter to a priest for the 363rd Regiment took in that the Foundation for Adopting home in which he says that he 1944 and ended in Livergnano. Graves Margraten and local Dutch has severe bruises from the rocks have adopted a grave since 1945. and planks that fell on him and Adopting a grave means bringing that he is staying in a hospital. Continued on p12 flowers on days like memorial He also says that he has heard day as well as researching the from his oldest brother John but life of the service member. he hasn't heard from his other In 2013, I received a certifi- brother Lawrence (his two broth- cation of adoption for “Wilbur ers both fought in WWII as well). E. Grimes, 363 INF 91 DIV, 26 Wilbur, at that time, did not November 44, Ohio.” From know that Lawrence had been then it is up to you to get to killed in action in Germany know “your soldier.” There is close to Aachen on November a field of honor database in 19th. John was at that day also where people can search the wounded in . The mother name and find information. of the three sons received four Through my research, I telegrams, the first two telling found out he was born in 1925 her two sons John and Wilbur in Harrison County, Ohio. Wil- were wounded and the third Vibeke Gootzen at Pfc. Wilbur Grimes’ bur enlisted in Cleveland on 6 notified her that Lawrence had grave in Margraten This is a video that tells his story https://www.youtube.com/ January 1944. He was buried in been killed. The fourth told her watch?v=t30ocWZ1A3Y Italy first but his family asked Wilbur died of his wounds.

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 11 FEATURES

Pvt. Grimes continued from p11

We thought Wilbur got wound- ed there but the owner of the Winter Line museum in Livergna- no believed he got wounded in an area near Livergnano. I still do not know exactly where he got wounded. During this trip I also visited the monument of the 363rd Reg- iment with his name on it. One day I hope to visit Ohio to see where Wilbur grew up. I also hope to find maybe more photos Vibeke Gootzen at the 363rd Infantry Regiment Monument which has the names od of him as well as possible veter- 463 Soldiers inscribed on it, Italy. Source: https://www.uswarmemorials.org/html/mon- ans who served in the 363rd Reg- ument_details.php?file=monument_details.php&SiteID=74&MemID=134&page=3 iment during WWII. This is very EDITOR NOTE: difficult but it would be wonderful I am very happy to share Ms. Gootzen welcomes any to get in contact with someone Wilbur's story as he deserves help to further her research who knows what happened. to be honored by many. and may be reached at [email protected]

Hispanic Heritage continued from p10

His grandfather served in the moved to California from Mexico has an accent but is bilingual. Army, his father served in the in 1986. “I am proud to be as “I’m not a fan of the terms Marine Corps and all of his uncles much Mexican as I am American,” Hispanic and Latino,” said Mark are Vietnam War veterans who he said. “I have strong roots in Hernandez, the supervisory served in the Marine Corps and both countries.” Garcia visits his sports specialist at the DeAnza Air Force. “I’m also proud of our relatives in Mexico often and he Sports Center. He was born and deep sense of family and tradi- feels at home there as much as raised in the U.S. and is bilingual. tions that keeps us anchored in he does here. Hernandez recalls how, as a child, the constant changes of military He is most proud of the deep he identified himself as a Mexican life.” sense of family that pervades in and now, as an adult, he thinks of Moreira was born in El Salva- his culture. Garcia’s parents-in- himself as a Mexican-American. dor, and he said his family moved law live with him, and he con- “I was fortunate enough to to the U.S. in the 1980s for “a siders them his second parents. live next to my grandparents who better life” because El Salvador “Not because we need to help immigrated from Mexico,” said was going through a civil war. “We each other financially, but it’s Hernandez. “Living this closely were fortunate to get a second because that’s how close my wife to them reinforced the Mexican chance in the USA.” is to her parents,” said Garcia. value of respecting family elders One of Moreira’s heroes “That’s something you don’t see and the use of Spanish.” is Jose Hernandez, a Mexi- in typical American families.” Although those interviewed can-American who grew up as Garcia notices an interesting for this story have some cul- a farm worker in Stockton, Cali- phenomenon within his family. tural differences, they all share fornia and became a NASA as- His American-born cousins have love and service to country, and tronaut. “He is an inspiration to strong Mexican accents but they strong family bonds. They are many who want to achieve the don’t even speak Spanish. On the a great representation of Army American dream,” said Moreira. opposite side of the spectrum values and diversity. Garcia, an Air Force veter- is his American-born wife who an (1996-2008), said his family spent her childhood in Mexico,

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 12 FEATURES LEADER ENGAGEMENTS

Left: Hesperia Hall hosted its annual leaders forum with representatives from the State, County, local schools, and Fort Hunter Liggett. (L-R) Col. Bell; Congressman Jimmy Panetta; Monterey County Supervi- sor Chris Lopez; two local residents; San Lucas Superintedent/Principal Jessica Riley; Monterey County Office of Education Superintendent Dr. Deneen Guss; and California Assemblymember Robert Rivas.

Below left: Both command teams attended the Commander and CSM Conference hosted by IMCOM-Readiness at Fort Riley, Kansas to discuss current issues, processes, and the alignment of priorities with the new Chief of Staff of the Army. Col. Bell and Command Sgt. Major Fluckiger are shown in the first row.

Below right: L-R: 63rd Readiness Division Mission Command Support Group Com- mander Col. Lewis Knapp, Army Reserve Ambassador Joseph Boscacci, Assemblymember Robert Rivas, 63rd Readiness Division Commanding General Stacy Babcock, Ms. Young, and Lt. Col. McKenzie at Assembly- member Rivas’s office during Sacramento visit. (Courtesy photos)

August was a busy month with many leadership en- gagements for the command team at both installations. FHL Commander Charles Bell spoke at the annual Hesperia Hall leaders forum as part of a panel which included Congressman Panetta. He highlighted inter- governmental agreements and the MWR VIP Card. He and Command Sgt. Major Fluckiger also attend the IMCOM-Readiness Garrison Commanders/CSMs forum and the change of responsibility ceremony of the IM- COM-R Command Sgt. Major at Fort Riley, Kansas. By Amy Phillips, FHL Public Affairs Phillips, Amy By FHL Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Jason McKenzie and Camp Parks Deputy to the Garrison Commander Renee Young attended the Defense Leadership Summit in Sacra- mento hosted by the Governor Gavin Newsom, and had the opportunity to visit several assemblymember’s offices. (Left top) The FHL command team met with Command- ing General of the 102d Training Command, Brig. Gen Mat- thew V. Baker in July to discuss mutual initiatives for future growth and training enhancements for the FHL Total Army School System (TASS) mission. (Left bottom) They also met with Col. James Handura, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,

Courtesy photo Courtesy Sacramento District Commander, to discuss future projects.

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 13 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS

Fort Hunter Liggett Commander Col. Charles Bell hit the ground run- ning since assuming command in June, and is out and about getting to know his installation and the community. (L-R) He participated in a King City walking tour hosted by King City in Bloom, a non-profit group working for the betterment of the community; conducted his first employee town hall at the post theater to share his vision and leadership guidelines with garrison Soldiers and Army Civilians; toured the gasifier plant at FHL by Sierra Energy; and received a warm wel- come from children at the Child & Youth Services facility. Bell has also met with the State representatives and mayors from King City and Paso Robles, and hosted community relations meetings. (Top row photos by Amy Phillips, FHL Public Affairs; bottom right by CYS)

A College Fair was held at the On July 19, FHL hosted its The FHL Religious Support CYS Teen Center on July 18, very first Movie Under the Office hosted the Army with representatives from Stars featuring “SGT Stubby: Chaplain Corps’ 244th An- several colleges to provide An American Hero” at the his- niversary celebration on info and answer questions. The toric Hacienda courtyard. The July 29, with Chaplain (Lt. CYS-hosted event was created Hacienda also showcased its Col.) Eric Meyners from the to help teens start thinking new Taco Cart offering several Presidio of Monterey as the about their future and about kinds of tacos for movie-goers guest speaker. He spoke of programs that might be of to enjoy. More than 45 people the important role chaplains interest to them. (Photo by participated in this event. have in the welfare of the Naleah Daniels, FMWR (Photo by Bryan Lee, FWMR) community. (Photo by Patrick Summer Hire) Dupree, PAO Summer Hire)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 14 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS

On July 28, the city of Livermore conducted a ribbon cutting ceremony for “Veterans Way,” to honor commu- nity veterans’ contributions to the city and nation. The event included a motorcade of vintage cars and military vehicles carrying representatives from veteran associa- tions throughout the Livermore, Pleasanton and Dublin, as well as elected officials and service members. Parks Reserve Forces Training Area Commander Lt. Col. Jenni- fer Nolan (center) and the East Bay Recruiting Co. (pic- tured) participated in the event to show support. (Cour- tesy photo by the U.S. Army East Bay Recruiting Co.)

The director of Family and Mo- The Religious Support Office investment in the children. rale, Welfare and Recreation at both installations hosted PRFTA used theater arts to Charlemagne Tertulien gave well-attended Vacation Bible promote Bible study (left) a presentation to the King School programs at both while while FHL focused on City Chamber of Commerce installations, and volunteers the theme Incredible Race to during their luncheon, Aug. were vital to its success. promote the human race and 1, on the FHL MWR VIP Card, The garrisons greatly ap- fellowship. (Courtesy photos) upcoming events. (Photo by preciate the support and Amy Phillips, Public Affairs)

More than 100 people participated in the annual FHL Luau, Aug. 9, which included live entertainment by hula dancers, Hawaiian food, as well as a bounce castle for youth. Master Sgt. Juanito Bautista has volunteered in the last several years to roast the Kalua pig which is a day-long process. Participants also had the chance to learn hula from the dancers. (Photos by Cindy McIntyre, Public Affairs, and Bryan Lee, FMWR)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 15 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS

Parks Reserve Forces Training Area participated in Dublin’s National Night Out event Aug. 6, a nationwide campaign promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood comaraderie. PRFTA setup specif- The FHL Cybrary hosted their very ically at the newly established Boulevard Community first Comic Con, August 23, with which was part of the land exchange agreement with more than 75 people attending. the city of Dublin a few years ago. Garrison Command- The Comic Con showcased the er Lt. Col. Jennifer Nolan and Garrison Command Sgt. growing graphic novel section Major Jason Johnson were accompanied by Police in the Library and promoted Chief Shawn Turner, Officer Nicholas Avignone and comaraderie among the FHL Soldiers from 368th Military Intelligence Battalion community. Participants enjoyed who brought two Humvees. “The reception was super reading comics, arts and crafts, positive,” said Turner, who made a brief appearance face painting, video games and won on the local NBC TV news. (Courtesy photos) prizes. (Photos Bryan Lee, FMWR)

The annual Fort Hunter Liggett Community Expo showcases on- and off-post services available to Soldiers and their Families, Army Civilians and residents of FHL. Garrison directorates, along with more than a dozen vendors from the surrounding cities set up information booths. Sponsors donate raffle prizes each year which are greatly appreciated by the garrison and participants. The garrison commander presented each sponsor with a certificate of appreciation. (Photo by Bryan Lee, FMWR)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 16 TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS

Students in the 80th Training Command’s also used an excavator to load debris from a sim- Horizontal Construction Engineer Course com- ulated natural disaster into a 10-ton dump truck. plete qualifications for equipment use while The three-day project replicated a real-world tackling projects such as leveling the rock event, and students had to collaborate to reach around the in-ground well system with a wheeled solutions to the problems, including equipment loader at the training site (pictured above). selection and conflict resolution with the simulated The well and water storage site under con- population. (Photo by Patrick Dupree, summer hire) struction will help control dust on job sites. They

(Right) The PRFTA Fire Department hosted several fire train- ing events in the last couple of months with local fire agencies as well as the California Sea Cadet Academy. Participants from multiple counties partnered with the installation to conduct prescribed burns and battle fires that spring up on- and off-post. The Fire Dept. provided more than 130 Navy Sea Cadets with a one-hour lecture on fire behavior and fire prevention onboard a ship. The cadets’ strength and team-building skills were also tested at a seven-station strength and endurance exercise. (Below) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 fire 40mm grenades out of M203 grenade launchers during a fire team leader field training exercise (FTX) at FHL. The FTX included training on leadership, weapons systems, individual combat skills, land navigation, communications and patrolling. Above: Alameda County firefighers at PRFTA (U.S. Navy photo by Hospital Corpsman Seaman Elijah Antor) during a prescribed burn in June. (Photo by Andrew Allen, PRFTA Fire Dept.)

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 17 SOLDIER & EMPLOYEE BULLETIN

USAG FHL HUMAN RESOURCES HAS A BRAND NEW AND VERY RESOUCEFUL SHAREPOINT https://army.deps.mil/army/cmds/ imcom_usag1/fhl/DHR/SitePages/ Human%20Resources.aspx Check it out!

PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINAR FOR DA-CIVILIANS & SOLDIERS ALL SOLDIERS & CAC CARD HOLDERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR CPAC, TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) Office and Soldier for Life will be conducting a Pre-Retirement TSA PRE Seminar for Soldiers & DA Civilians in the fall. Be on the lookout for email with dates and locations. Did you know Soldiers and civilian CAC holders can take advantage of TSA Pre-Check benefits, Please visit ABC-C & GBR Platform at whether on orders or for personal travel? https://www.ebis.army.mil/ to retrieve all Enter your DOD ID # in DTS when traveling the info you need prior to the event. for work. You can also apply for a TSA Pre- check on their website and enter the DOD For more info: ID # so you’re covered for personal travel Workforce Development as well. Children under 12 are covered too, 831-386-3253 if you enroll them. Go here for more info: [email protected] https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

Make sure your info is up to date in ADPAAS: https://adpaas.army.mil/cas/login?ser- vice=https%3A%2F%2Fadpaas.army.mil%2F

Check out this website for military (current, retired or veterans) and their Families seeking state licenses such as in the medical or security fields. There may be expedited licensure or fee waivers available for various professional occupations. https://www.dca.ca.gov/about_us/ military.shtml

The Golden Guidon | Fall 2019 |Page 18