… an historic day for

Louisiana Army National Guard … “This honor is bigger than me. Many great Soldiers have come before me to allow this event to take place today, and many more will follow.” BG Owen W. Monconduit

LOUISIANA NATIONAL GUARD

225TH ENGINEER BRIGADE

FEBRUARY 25, 2009 VOLUME 1, ISSUE X Page 2 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS

CCOMMANDEROMMANDER’’SS CCOMMENTSOMMENTS BG Owen W. Monconduit Thanks Engineer Soldiers for spectrum engineering opera- tributions in support of MND-B the promotion to Brigadier tions in Baghdad. Too, we and compile daily events into General! Decades of hard work proudly held a combat patch weekly measures in meeting by great Engineer Soldiers per- ceremony on 20 Feb. to recog- your monthly objectives. Too, forming numerous federal and nize your military service signi- repeat this process with your state missions have fied by displaying personal goals. led to the increase of the 225th’s Shoul- Again, the Brigadier General this command posi- der Sleeve Insignia position is really an achieve- tion from colonel to on both the left ment of the many great men brigadier general. and now right side. and women who built the 225th This promotion is We are only in our Engineer Brigade into the credentialed by the first month of op- world class, valued based or- non-commissioned erations in Bagh- ganization it is today! Let’s officer corps, and dad, so, ready continue to execute our engi- justly so, 2009 is yourselves for a neering missions in the tradi- The Year of the high OPTEMPO tion of outstanding NCO per- Non-Commissioned and dynamic mis- formances and a great safety Officer!! sions in support of 1st Cavalry record, Safe Deployment = Engineers, February 2009 has Division, FIRST TEAM. Re- Safe Return. resulted in outstanding full cord your daily significant con- CASTLE 6

MMESSAGEESSAGE FROMFROM CCASTLEASTLE 77 CSM Joseph Major Greetings Engineer Soldiers, traffic signs, don’t speed, fice area or Containerized Since SAFETY is a major don’t drive recklessly, and Housing Unit (CHU) with priority for us, I would like to watch out for other people. too many appliances or continue with the safety • We have a mixture equipment. This theme from the last newslet- of Soldiers, contrac- could become a ter. On the Forward Opera- tors, and local na- fire hazard. Use the tions Base (FOB) there are a tional citizens work- proper adapters multitude of safety concerns/ ing on the FOB, so and extension issues. Following are just a be extremely cau- cords. If you have few I would like to review tious. a question about and offer guidance: what adapter or • Be careful in the extension cords are • Make sure you wear a office and housing correct, please con- reflective belt while run- area because there tact the TF Safe in ning or moving around at are a lot of rocks and the 225th Engr Bde night. We don’t need uneven walkways; use a Headquarters. anyone hurt or hospital- flashlight watching where ized because of an easily you step and walk. Bottom line… watch out for avoidable mistake. your fellow Soldiers and Battle • Runners, make sure you run Buddy and help keep them safe. • When moving around the into the traffic flow, not with FOB either by walking, it. Safe Deployment = riding a bicycle, or driv- • Electrical safety: don’t over- Safe Return ing, always observe the load the circuits in your of- CSM Joe Major

LOUISIANA NATIONAL GUARD Beetle Bailey By Mort Walker

On the Cover: How the Air Force Dealt with Military Cutbacks ... The Semi-Monthly Newsletter for the Newly promoted 225th Engineer Brigade Brigadier General Editor: Owen W. Moncon- Sgt. Rebekah Malone —————-—Vol. I, Iss. X——————— duit displays a coin Contributing journalists: presented to him by 2 Comments from Castle 6 Scott Flenner 1st Cavalry Com- 2 Message from Castle 7 mander, MG Daniel 1st Lt. Janeene Yarber P. Bolger Sgt. Catherine Graham 3 Chaplain’s Corner (Photo courtesy of 4 46th modifies vehicles Julie Dermansky) 5 Recovery Class Begins 6-7 Soldiers in Focus 8-9 Soldiers celebrate Mardi Gras Chaplain’s Corner 10-11 Newest general in Louisiana By Chap. (MAJ) Jeff Mitchell National Guard Love and Respect negatively react to we each 12-13 COL Mustard in the kitchen Marriage Series other?” The energizing cycle 14-15 Meet the command Our marriage enrichment series answers the question, “how do will be based on the Love and Re- we motivate a spouse?” The spect marriage conference material Reward Cycle answers “what presented by can we do when a spouse Emerson and doesn’t respond?” Quiz Sarah Eggerich. Please take advantage of this 1. What Krewe was the first to introduce A great time to animated floats? series no matter what your A) Mid-City learn and reflect marital status in order to be B) Proteux on how to be a equipped for the present or the C) Rex better spouse is 2. Which Krewe is credited for having the first future. celebrity King? when you are Check out the resources at A) Bacchus apart. Obvi- B) Orpheux C) Endymion ously, those that D) Zulu are married and 3. On July 8, 1988, the Louisiana here together are welcomed. It is http://www.loveandrespect.com Legislature passed bill #SB188 in response to one Krewe’s problem. based on the verse in Ephesians The series will be at the Divi- What is the bill 5:33 "Nevertheless let each indi- sion Chapel on the 2nd and 4th commonly known as? vidual among you also love his A) The Mardi Gras Bill Thursday of the month starting B) The Carnival Relief Bill own wife even as himself; and let 26 March at 1800 hours. This is C) The Coconut Bill the wife see to it that she respect one of the best series I’ve seen D) The Mardi Gras Relief Bill Name two wars that saw a halt of her husband." This material pre- in years. Mardi Gras celebrations in while they sented via DVD deals with three CH (MAJ) Jeff Mitchell were in progress? areas: the crazy cycle, the energiz- A) The Civil War & WWII B) The Korean War & WWII ing cycle, and the reward cycle. C) Persian Gulf War & Vietnam War The crazy cycle answers “why we D) WWI & WWII

Page 4 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS 46th modifies vehicles to ease travel through Baghdad streets By Staff Sgt. Maria Martinez-Glory Direct Support Platoon, Platoon Sergeant

The mine resistant ambush pro- tive of Canoga Park, Calif. and nor improvements to be made tected vehicle, an armored fight- Stephen Green, a native of Cit- but in the end, the vehicles ing vehicle designed to survive ronelle, Ala., provided the in- were successfully completed improvised explosive devices, is genuity and skills essential to with the best product from the the preferred method of move- tackle this dilemma. The ment for many Soldiers conduct- Soldiers undertook the ing convoys in Iraq. However, project to protect the bat- the large vehicles have been talion’s vehicles by fab- known to get caught in tight spots ricating the design that on some of the narrow streets in became the standard for Baghdad, and are threatened by the 46th Eng. Bn. low-hanging electrical wires. To Thrailkill, who special- help with this issue, maintenance izes in welding, pro- Soldiers of the 46th Engineer duced the template for Combat Battalion (Heavy), 225th the metal brackets that Engineer Brigade, 1st Cavalry hold the mounts in place. Division, Multi-National Divi- Soldiers conduct a test of the wire mitiga- sion - Baghdad, figured out a me- “I understood the mag- tion system by passing an mine resistant chanical solution to divert the nitude of the mission ambush protected under low-hanging wire over the vehicle. when I noticed how wires. many brackets I would The direct support platoon of have to fabricate to complete the 46th Eng. Bn. developed a direct support platoon and its just one vehicle,” said welders. Once again, the main- solution that would quickly pro- Thrailkill. vide a safe and cost efficient so- tenance team of the 46th Eng. lution. Green, who is also a welder, While other units developed spearheaded a their own solutions, Chief War- team of volun- rant Officer 2 Langston Washing- teers from the ton, a native of Houston, Texas, battalion to place noticed that other wire mitigation the kits on all the devices needed more coverage. vehicles. “Instead of starting at the Green said, bumper of the vehicle, [wire miti- “Some of the gation devices] started at the top brackets were too of the cab which offered little flimsy to with- protection if it were to come into stand pressure contact with power lines,” said from power lines Langston. or any other His solution was to start at the sources.” Spc. Stephen Green, welder from Citronella, Ala., front bumper of the vehicle to As a result, he welds a wire mitigation kit on one of the mine re- allow the coverage to continue to requested stiffer sistant ambush protected. the back of the vehicle. When the PVC pipe that power lines come into contact, would hold up during any con- Bn., proved that with creativ- they would flow right over the tact with the hanging power ity and hard work any chal- PVC piping. His welding team lines. Some vehicles had to lenge can be overcome. led by Spcs. Paul Thrailkill a na- come back to the shop for mi-

Page 5 VOLUME I, ISSUE X Combat mechanic recovery classes opens Photo and article by Sgt. Catherine Graham

Combat mechanics and support troops “I felt that accurate information from the 890th Engineer Battalion, from the equipment operator is a Safety 225th Engineer Brigade, took the oppor- vital to the success of a recovery By 1st Lt. Jerry Rodriguez tunity Feb. 5 to take part in a new vehi- mission,” Hines added. “Drivers’ During the next couple of weeks, cle recovery course given at the 890th training will help the Soldier under- the HHC fire wardens and KBR Eng. Bn. motor pool here. stand the importance of conveying will be inspecting Soldier’s contain- The course has been designed to im- correct information in relation to erized housing units (CHUs) for prove vehicle recovery operations within recovery.” safety purposes. Key things to re- the battalion as well as for the unit The third class was opened to Sol- member: which will replace the 890th Engineers diers in the distribution platoon who • Only CE and UL certified elec- in the next few weeks. were not experienced in the recovery trical devices will be authorized Throughout the course, Soldiers ex- process. for use on VBC. perienced realistic scenarios created to “I wanted to take the class to get a • There should not be an obstruc- hone their skills as they drive outside the better understanding of the M916 tions in front (inside and out- wire to recover disabled or damaged (tractor trailer) truck. The class side) of your door for as least vehicles. taught me how to back up the truck 36 inches. The mechanics used cranes on ‘mock- and trailer through a serpentine • You should contact the 1SG up’ vehicles to represent types of equip- course and other difficult terrains,” with any deficiencies in your ment they may encounter during actual said Spc. Montoya Brown, a native living areas that require a work recovery operations. They also used the of Gulfport, Miss. and a unit supply order for repair. course to test their driving skills. specialist with the 890th Eng. Bn. • Remember that most wall re- Forward Support Company. “The ceptacles on VBC are 220 volt. Three classes were held during the trial class material was extensive and the If you need to power 110 volt phase of the four-day block of instruc- hands-on experience was great. Us- (U.S.) appliances, ensure that tion, where the Soldiers served as trou- ing the battle damaged equipment you utilize a power converter bleshooters for the course curriculum by was difficult but it gave us a worst (step-down transformer). Oth- completing a questionnaire and offered case scenario experience.” erwise, you may burn up the suggestions to modify the course. “I learned a whole lot. I could find appliance and possibly start a The first two classes were offered to no fault in the course. I am glad I had fire. Soldiers experienced in the recovery and the opportunity to attend the class • Do not ‘daisy chain’ power maintenance sections. and I think a lot of Soldiers will strips together. Power strips “The class was a little basic for me benefit from the training,” added and large appliances because I work in the recovery section, Brown. (refrigerators) should be but I am happy to help troubleshoot the The course marked the first time plugged directly in to the wall class for other Soldiers. My suggestion the 890th’s troops have trained at the receptacles. was to focus less on preventive mainte- recently constructed recovery opera- • Hanging of ponchos, poncho nance checks and services and more on tions training area of their motor liners, blankets, etc., for indi- hand signals,” said Spc. Scott Monroe, a pool. vidual privacy inside CHUs is native of Gulfport, Miss., who attended not authorized on VBC. If a the first class. fire would start in the living “Improving drivers’ training was my areas, these items obstruct suggestion for the egress from the CHUs. course,” said Sgt. I would like to thank all 225th En- Timothy Hines, a gineer Soldiers for doing a great job native of Dublin, in promoting safety. To date in Iraq, Texas, a mechanic HHC, 225 EN BDE has had zero with the 836th Sap- recordable accidents. Let’s keep it per Company. that way!

Hines helped cri- PHOTO LEFT: tique the second During the first class in the recovery class, which he said training area in the 890th Engineer included invaluable Battalion’s motor pool, Spc. Scott training for vehicle Monroe of Gulfport, Miss., uses operators as they hand signals to back the wrecker up recover vehicles. so that the battle-damaged vehicle

Page 6 THE ENGINEER EX-

46th Engineer Battalion Despite all the notoriety, the for- overall success of the mission. The Sgt. Cole Brewer mer firefighter remains modest. young lieutenant is that type of Somebody call the Discovery He continued, “My team has leader. Channel. We have the next epi- gained a lot of experience. We “Every day I wake up and consider sode of “Dirty Jobs” with Mike just get better and better.” myself very fortunate to work with Rowe! Recently while on leave, the group of people that I do,” said Sgt. Cole Brewer, member of Brewer, of Riverside, Calif., mar- Warehime. “What I enjoy most is ‘Dirty Deuces’ platoon, Com- ried his girlfriend of more than the platoon, just being around the pany A, 46th Engineer Combat three years, the former Mandy guys.” Battalion (Heavy), 225th Engi- Sulzmann of Grand Terrace, For the past year, Warehime has neer Brigade, 1st Cavalry Divi- Calif. successfully led his platoon down sion, Multi-National Division – 890th Engineer Battalion some of the most dangerous routes Baghdad, heads a plumbing re- 1st Lt. Richard Warehime in Baghdad clearing them of IEDs pair task force of six Soldiers. Hours on a route clearance mis- that threaten the safety of everyone “Everything is new,” Brewer sion can lead to many inside in Iraq. said. “Each situation we get jokes. For members of 2nd Pla- Along with his daily platoon called to fix is unique even toon, 688th Engineer Company, leader tasks of mission planning, though they all fall under the 890th Eng. Battalion, 225th Eng. intelligence gathering and overall category of ‘plumbing repair.’” Brigade, Multi-National Division command and control of his Sol- Committed to improving the – Baghdad, their platoon leader diers, Warehime, leads his Soldiers quality of life for Soldiers living provided the ammunition. from the front by performing every on remote Joint Security Sta- The holder of three types of mar- duty, driving every vehicle and tions, Brewer’s team has com- tial arts black belts, 1st Lt. Rich- completing every task involved in a pleted more than 15 of the most ard Warehime of Texarkana, route clearance mission. “I wanted severe plumbing, pipe fitting, Texas, is fondly referred to as to learn more about the vehicles and and sewerage disasters. Some ‘happy feet’ by his Soldiers. And what jobs the other Soldiers do so I of these problems were previ- while the ‘Ligar’ Soldiers joke, started driving and TCing (troop ously thought to be unfixable they are quick to explain why commanding) different vehicles,” and required ingenious, non- their ‘LT’ is one of the best. said Warehime. “[The knowledge] standard solutions. Brewer’s Soldiers explained, “He is very is very beneficial … I would not ask team remains undaunted even in level-headed. He has a cool head my Solders to do a job that I would the most challenging conditions and knows his job very well.” not do myself.” that are usually inherent to work- Being platoon leader for a route “The buffalo is nice because it is a ing with sewage main breaks and clearance team is no easy task. It lot more powerful to smash stuff, dysfunctional plumbing. takes a leader who possesses in- but I really like the husky,” Ware- credible attributes and hime explained about his favorite is willing to lead from piece of equipment. “It is a lot more the front to perform this versatile vehicle, the most surviv- task and en- sure the

Sgt. Cole Brewer of ‘Dirty Deuces’ platoon 1st Lt. Richard Warehime receives the bronze star

Warehime has gained head start on life and deploy,” special education kindergarten the respect and confi- didn’t deploy to Iraq all alone. In teacher at Morning Side Ele- dence of his Soldiers and command addition to his “Castle” team- mentary in Brownsville, Texas. over the last year. mates, there’s a man who has He serves as the platoon ser- “He is an extraordinary, incredible been with Crooks since the begin- geant of the 1st Platoon officer, with a ton of talent who ning. “Reapers”. brought the best out of his Soldiers,” “He knows there will be no spe- “I worked as a civilian journal- said 688th Eng. Co. Commander Cpt. cial treatment for him while he is ist for a while, but I became Marc Anderson, of Mountain Pine, deployed with me, but I am very tired of always dealing with Ark. “I have been impressed with proud of my son,” said his father tragedy and sadness,” said Si- him from the time we started till and deputy commanding officer erra. “I wanted to do something now. Throughout the deployment, he of the 225th Eng. Bde., Lt. Col I felt good about. That’s why I continually encouraged Soldiers to Jerry Crooks. became a teacher.” bring ideas and concepts forward, Tough, with no special treat- He also has an impressive and that is what makes him a great ment, is how the young private military resume and experience leader.” expects life to be here in Iraq dur- that he brings to his platoon. HHC, 225th ing his first deployment. His diverse experiences include Engineer Brigade “I’m just proud to be a Soldier the following positions: recon- Pfc. Taylor Crooks, a combat engi- and follow in my family’s foot- naissance scout, combat camera neer, 225th Engineer Brigade, 1st steps.” and psychological operations. Cavalry Division, Multi-National 890th Engineer Battalion “I enjoy passing my knowl- Division—Baghdad works in the Sgt. 1st Class Glenn Sierra edge to my subordinates—it is operations section of his brigade’s Sgt. 1st Class Glenn Sierra, a my Soldier’s job to hunt for command center. combat engineer assigned to IEDs so the roads are safe to A native of Deville, La., Crooks 836th Sapper Company, 890th travel for Coalition forces and enlisted in the U.S. Army seven Engineer Battalion, 225th Engi- the Iraqi people. It’s my job to months ago and received a promo- neer Brigade, 1st Calvary Divi- make sure they do their job tion to private first class Feb. 16. sion, Multi-National Division— safely and return home to their Working with the Army’s com- Baghdad. Sierra, a native of families. mand post of the future, he can track Brownsville, Texas, enlisted in Sierra, whose hobby is diving, and report, in near real-time, events the U.S. Army twenty years ago. is a certified scuba diver who and units all over the greater Bagh- This Soldier has seen many com- once worked as a shark wran- dad area. As a CPOP operator in the bat engagements throughout his gler at an aquarium in Galves- tactical operations center, Crooks career to include his second de- ton, Texas. functions as the eyes and ears for the ployment to Iraq. commander during combat opera- Sierra, who has a bachelor’s tions, route clearance missions and degree in journalism, is a joint MND- B/Iraqi Security Force patrols.

Crooks, who joined the Army “…to get a

Newly promoted Pfc. Taylor Crooks with his Sgt. 1st Class Glenn Sierra, father, Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Jerry S. Crooks once a shark wrangler Page 8 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS

Soldier’s Angels send Mardi Gras to Baghdad For deployed Soldiers of was decorated for the 225th Engineer Bri- more than a week gade, 1st Cavalry Division, as Soldiers opened Multi-National Division – their boxes and Baghdad, of Pineville, La., added decorations you can take the Soldier to the displays. out of the state, but you “I got a t-shirt, can’t take Mardi Gras out mask, beads, fleur- of the Soldier. de-lis and some Thanks to a generous do- candy,” Sgt. 1st nation of more than 170 Class Janis Smith care packages from Sol- of Winnsboro, La., dier’s Angels, an organiza- said. She gave her tion aimed at supporting mask after the deployed service members, celebration to the engineers were able to members of a jazz celebrate in style. band. The boxes, each ad- The recipe for the dressed to an individual Mardi Gras favor- Soldier, were filled with ite, king cake, was decorations, beads, colorful given to the cooks masks, moon pies and of in the dining facil- course well wishes. ity; and while the Spc. Jasmon Valley of Pineville, La., unloads loads of “You could tell Soldiers interpretation was- Operation Overseas Mardi Gras packages. were happy to receive n’t perfect, it defi- nitely sufficed. boxes full of moon pies, ana culture in Iraq. beads and other decora- Soldiers dressed in full- Louisiana Soldiers said tions,” Lt. Col. Greg Parker garb celebrated as ar- sharing Mardi Gras was the of Gonzalez, La., said. mored vehicle horns chance to share just a little “The Mardi Gras décor and honked as they passed by piece of themselves, the food provided joie-de-vive the Soldiers adorned in state they represent and a (joy of life) to experience elaborate masks and cos- culture rich with history and Mardi Gras in Iraq.” tumes; undoubtedly their tradition. The headquarters building first experience of Louisi- “We can learn a lot from the Iraqi Culture, but we can share ours at the same time,” Parker said. “Iraqi people love to celebrate just like we do.”

Page 9 VOLUME 1, ISSUE X

From Left to Right: Sgt. 1st Class Joel Hoover, Master Sgt. Lisa Bates and Lt. Col. Greg Parker displays the ‘Meet us on Bourbon Street’ banner in front of the 225th Engineer Brigade headquarters building. Operation Overseas Deployment provided more than 170 boxes of Mardi Gras spirit for the Soldiers. Sgt. RoKeisha Bery- mon models her festive Mardi Gras mask. The spirit of Mardi Gras was contagious for Soldiers as they donned their garb to take photos with their friends holding LSU, New Orleans Saints and Mardi Gras banners as well as Louisiana’s state flag.

Page 10 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS … an historic day, for Louisiana Army National Guard ...

Four weeks to the day of the inau- signed was the Lilly Ledbetter toon leader, company executive guration of American’s first black Fair Pay Act; Louisiana just officer, company commander, president, Louisiana National Guard elected the first Vietnamese U.S. battalion and brigade com- ceremoniously promoted its first Representative, Anh Cao, and mander, all with the 225th Eng. African American to general offi- last year the first governor of Bde. Before accepting command cer. Indian decent, Gov. Bobby Jin- of the engineer brigade in 2007, Owen W. Monconduit of Pineville, dal,” Monconduit pointed out. Monconduit served as the execu- La., was promoted to brigadier gen- “This is a sign of our times, tive officer to the Adjutant Gen- eral Tuesday, Feb. 17, in Baghdad. moving eral of the Louisiana Na- He is the commander of the 225th forward tional Guard, Maj. Gen. Ben- Engineer Brigade, and serves as the on equal “This honor is big- nett C. Landreneau. He be- provincial engineer for the 1st Cav- ground.” came the chief of the envi- alry Division, Multi-National Divi- M o n - ger than me. Many ronment management section sion – Baghdad. conduit great Soldiers have for the Louisiana National In what has become a year of his- graduated come before me to Guard in 1991 where he torical steps forward, Monconduit from served before becoming the marveled at the enormity of the Louisiana allow this event to Construction Management honor of being the first Black Lou- State take place today, and Facilities Officer in isiana Guardsmen to don the star. Univer- 2000. “This honor is bigger than me,” sity in “The National Guard is a Moncon- great organization – it’s a duit said. value based organization and “Many it certainly expresses equal- great Sol- ity and has many opportuni- diers have ties available for any young come be- person that is interested in fore me to the military,” Monconduit allow this said. “It’s a humbling experi- event to ence to achieve your dreams, take place but through perseverance today, and and hard work, it pays off.” many more The Operation Enduring will fol- Freedom veteran com- low.” manded the 528th Engineer February Battalion from Monroe, La., is Black through a year-long tour to History Afghanistan in 2005 before Month, a commanding his battalion Col. Ahmed, commander of the 6th IA Engineers, presents newly promoted time to re- Brigadier General Owen Monconduit with a gift in commemoration of the his- for six months on state-active member the toric event. duty for Hurricanes Katrina many great and Rita. African American’s that have paved 1984 with a Bachelor of Engi- Landreneau was able to view the way for equal opportunity for all neer Technology, a Master of the promotion with Moncon- genders, races and creeds. Arts in organizational manage- duit’s wife, Anges Chenevert, “I am proud of the National Guard, ment from the University of via video teleconferencing to Louisiana and our country for the Phoenix in 1998 and from the Louisiana from Baghdad. He has progression of equal opportunity for Army War College known Monconduit his entire all races and genders,” Monconduit in 2007 with a master’s in strate- career. said. He went on to explain some of gic studies. “Most importantly, he leads in the great steps forward in the last During his 28-year career, the direction of taking care of year alone. Monconduit has served as a pla- Soldiers; “The first bill President Obama

Page 11 VOLUME I, ISSUE X Owen W. Monconduit is promoted to the rank of , BrigadierBrigadier

GeneralGeneral

because of that, he has earned the respect of the Soldier and NCO corps he leads,” Landreneau said. “Owen’s a great Sol- dier, a great patriot, very dedicated to his Soldiers and a great leader.” Monconduit has received numerous awards during his career, some of which include: the , Meritorious Service Medal, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humani- tarian Service Medal and the Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon. Opposite page: Newly promoted Brig. Gen. Owen Monconduit is presented with a gift from the 6th Iraqi Army Engineer Com- mander, Col. Ahmed. Left to Right: Chaplain Jeff Mitchell prays for Brig. Gen. Owen Monconduit. Maj. Gen. Daniel Bolger congratulates the newest general in the Army, Brig. Gen. Owen Monconduit. BG Monconduit thanks all the supporters over the years, in particular, the NCO Corps. MG Daniel Bolger shows the video telecon- ference the star he put on BG Monconduit’s chest. The general’s wife was able to view the pinning from Louisiana with the Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Bennett Landreneau.

Page 12 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS

The guidon is a symbol of wearing digital ACUs with considering an Amber heritage and pride. Protect- brown boots, dark hair, alert. Authorities had ing the units, guidon is a and a funny smirk on his made it clear that the full fiduciary responsibility held face. Approach with ex- weight of the legal system by ever Soldier in the armed treme caution, particularly will come to bear should forces. It is for this very rea- if the words huddle, cows, harm befall the JAG gui- son that the ‘art’ of guidon or briefing are heard. don. theft has become somewhat More to follow… of legend in military circles. Risky by nature, the reward A THIRD SUSEPCT IS in stealing someone else’s A SECOND SUSPECT IS IMPLICATED-13 Feb 09 guidon is immeasurably IDENTIFIED—12 Feb 09 greater than the idea of get- The case is moving ting caught. Every guidon Update. Further testing quickly as the conspira- theft has its story, often em- by CID has revealed that tors begin to turn on one bellished. This is the story of a second culprit was in- another. Under intense how a young guidon from volved in the heinous interrogation (in compli- the 225th JAG suffered the theft of the JAG guidon. ance with Geneva Con- unimaginable; It was sto- In addition to Cos, there ventions and all applicable len ... was a shorter squattier laws and treaties), 2 has Major involved, known implicated a “third” sus- JAG GUIDON STOLEN!!! only as the “2.” CID is pect. 3 who is known to By Castle JAG, Lt. Col. Connell uncertain how 2 had time associated himself with Archey—11 Feb 09 to become involved in this CoS is believed to be the The JAG guidon has been conspiracy given the ex- planner of racketeering pilfered. CID has been con- treme number of meet- organization. 3 is a ladies tacted and initial forensic ings that 2 claims to at- man, the tall dark quite evidence points to a male tend. The theory being type. But do not let 3’s LTC whose last name begins worked is that the meet- charm mislead you, like with P, known as the “CoS.” ings are alibis for criminal his conspirators, he must Expect an arrest warrant to activity and that gritsums, also be approached with be issued imminently. In exsums, and sigacts are extreme caution. Do not the meantime, a BOLO has code words for conspira- attempt to apprehend been issued for a young gui- tors. This crime may be should you encounter any don and the suspect. The racketeering or organized of the conspirators. guidon is JAG blue in color in nature. As with CoS, 2 with a golden JAG crest, and should be viewed as JAG GUIDON RESCUED! the words 225 and JAG lov- armed and extremely - 21 Feb 09 ingly stitched on its surface. dangerous. The guidon should be Meanwhile, continue to treated delicately due to its be on the lookout for the Where CID failed, Spe- tender age. The vile despi- young JAG guidon. CID is cial Ops succeeded. cable Cos was last seen

Page 13 VOLUME I, ISSUE X

While the details of the re- has or had possession of COS, 225th Eng. Bde. covery operation are classi- the JAG guidon. As more Amen, I feel vindicated. fied, according to unnamed and more time passes, Its about time legal folks sources, special forces authorities are concerned get their facts straight be- launched a raid in the early that harm may have be- fore accusing innocent, morning hours of 21 Febru- fallen the young JAG gui- hard working, self- ary 2009 (Zulu time) in the don. Your help is desper- sacrificing Soldiers of do- location of the work area of ately needed. ing such a heinous crime 3 or the ungovernable, tribal as guidon theft - should areas of Pakistan. The ex- RESPONSE TO not there be enough traction operation almost arsonists out there for the failed when a local Adam of- ALLEGATIONS by COS, jag to focus his attention fered resistance. Special S2, S3—21 Feb 09 on? Cant we all just forces nevertheless perse- Well, the gig is up. I get along? vered suffering one injury. have some evidence to In the words of the team present to the JAG to Maj. Will Conley leader, "The casualty is un- prove that I was not in- S2, 225th Eng. Bde. fortunate. But the feeling is volved. It is obvious that exhilarating as this is what by the attached photo, we train for." there is no way to prove I You might think you've scored a victory of some CID released a statement or any one else in the sort, but think of the well- that the recovery of the gui- staff was involved. being of your guidon. In- don should lead to charges stead of work- shortly against ing endless COS, the 2, and hours flying for 3 and others your sadistic still to be impli- pleasure, it was cated. living a life of Although the pampered lux- young JAG gui- ury while don was under our shaken from its "supervision." ordeal, its spirit Stockholm Syn- has not been drome? I think broken. It not... bravely flies in the face of hos- Lt. Col. Dave tile action at Dancer this very time S3, 225th Eng. in the JAG of- Bde. fice. Guidon thieves cannot be identified thanks to the ingenious The plight of disguises worn by the culprits. Any information that leads to

the JAG guidon the arrest of criminals will lead to the informant receiving a continues. In- photo with the popular guidon. formation that cannot be cor- roborated indicated that 3 Lt. Col. Greg Parker

Page 14 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS Introducing 890th Engineer Battalion Command

CPT Sledge, CDR CPT Sledge CPT Brown 1SG Young 836th ENG CO 836 ENG CO.1SG 848th ENG CO.CDR 848 ENG CO 1SG

LTC Joe Hargett CSM Larry Mergenschroer 890th ENG BN CDR 890th ENG BN SEA

1SG Michael Weaver HSC, 890th EN BN Photo unavailable

CPT Sanchez, CDR CPT Bryant, CDR 1SG Gargus HSC, 890th EN BN 890th FSC EN BN 890th FSC 1SG

Page 15 VOLUME I, ISSUE X Introducing 46th Engineer Combat Battalion (H) Command

CPT Landreth, CDR 1SG Roman CPT Beal, CDR 1SG Williams A CO 46th EN BN A CO 46th EN BN B CO 46th ECB (H) B CO 46th ECB (H)

LTC Matthew Zajac CSM Francis Thibodeau 46th ECB (H) CDR 46th ECB (H) CSM

CPT Smoot, CDR 1SG Hall CPT Lauver, CDR SFC Gibbs, 1SG B CO 46th ECB (H) B CO 46th ECB (H) 955th EN CO 46th ECB (H) 955th EN CO 46th ECB (H)

Page 16 THE ENGINEER EXPRESS

Spc. Jeramie Benjamin be a team player and works,” Rebekah Malone of Pineville, Sgt. 1st Class Haden Hobbs of La. A native of Kansas, January’s Soldier of the Month Pineville, La., said. “He Malone moved to Louisiana goes to Natchitoches, La., native jumps in there regardless of after meeting her husband, Spc. Jeramie Benjamin,. The rank and roles his sleeves up.” Cpt. Rob Malone while de- command post of the future ployed in 2004. (CPOF) operator is a member of The night TOC NCOIC, the 225th Engineer Brigade, 1st Hobbs explained that the tran- She has six years of service in Cavalry Division, Multi-National sition from infantryman to the Reserves and National Division - Baghdad. TOC specialist has been dra- Guard as a finance specialist matic. and human resources special- 21-year-old ist. Currently she works as the Benjamin, “He didn’t know his way public affairs NCO for the who holds 225th Engineer Brigade. the 11C around an of- MOS, is fice, let alone Although she is awesome, thrilled with the TOC,” Malone is highly upset she the added Hobbs said with has to write about herself; it responsibility a smile. “Now goes against her values of he of work- he’s multi- ethical journalistic reporting. ing in the tasking with She is known as ‘angry little tactical op- multiple com- squirrel’, short-shot and little erations cen- puter systems. bit. She once threw a certain ter. He said, I’m definitely lieutenant colonel in the snow, “I have en- proud of him.” just because she is mean. joyed learn- When not at When Malone heard her sub- ing how to work Benjamin ordinate civilian PAO, Scott operate all enjoys destroy- Flenner was a better photogra- the machines ing villains on pher, she actually locked the in the TOC and I am glad I have his Xbox, playing Gears of fury-instigating Soldiers in an good people to work with.” War II and working out at the office until they begged for The added responsibility and gym. forgiveness for their trans- experience that he is gaining on Benjamin’s parents, Griffon gressions; it is Ash Wednes- his first deployment will only and Eva Paige, wait day after all. better help him prepare for his patiently for their military goals that he has set for son’s safe return at himself. home in Natchito- “I want to become an officer ches, La., with his and stay in the military over 20 two sisters, Halie years,” said Benjamin. and Grifianna Paige, ages 12 and 8. Currently a sophomore at Northwestern State University, Benjamin is pursuing a degree in Sgt. Rebekah criminal justice while enrolled in the reserve officer training Malone course. January’s NCO of “Benjamin has an eagerness to the Month is Sgt.

Page 17 VOLUME I, ISSUE X Combat Patch Ceremony, 225th dons right shoulder sleeve insignia

On Feb. 20, the 225th Engineer Brigade held a ceremony to place their combat patch on the right shoulder of their uniform. This patch signifies a combat de- ployment and is worn as representation of what unit the Soldiers fall under and support during their tour. As a brigade element, the Soldiers of the 225th engi- neers are authorized to wear their own patch, containing the castle of the engi- neers and the fleur-de-lis of Louisiana, on their right sleeve, in addition to the one already worn on their left. The ceremony and presentation of the combat patch was overseen by the 225th Engineer Brigade commanding officer, Briga- dier General Monconduit, and Command Sergeant Major Major. Top Photo: Command Sgt. Maj. Joe Major dons the 225th Engineer Brigade patch on the right shoulder of Pvt. Chip Normand or Marksville, La.