March 2014 “Not fancy, just tough” Volume II, Issue 6 3rd ABCT assumes USNORTHCOM mission Story by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler Freedom and deployed to in defense, civil support and security 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Office support of the Global War on Ter- cooperation to defend and secure On March 1, 3rd Armored Bri- ror. A proven globally-responsive the United States and its interests. gade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry unit, the brigade will now become a In the recent months, the bri- Division, became the United States regionally-aligned force. gade’s battalions have been con- Northern Command’s (USNORTH- Since its inception Oct. 1, 2002, ducting classroom and field COM) regionally-aligned force to USNORTHCOM has provided training in order to prepare for provide support for theater security command and control of Depart- the various scenarios they may be cooperation efforts with America’s ment of Defense homeland defense called upon to react to in the future. allied countries in the region. efforts and coordinated defense Providing relief support and For nearly three decades, Soldiers support of civilian authorities coordinating with federal and local of 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID, have deployed through its various subordinate agencies using air, land, or sea in support of operations through- units. One of those units, U.S. support will all be contributions the out the world. As one of the most Army North (Fifth Army), or AR- brigade will make to the enduring, deployed brigades in the United NORTH, will be the newest higher unified effort to defeat irregular States Army, Sledgehammer Sol- headquarters for the Sledgehammer threats targeting the homeland and diers have taken part in Operations Brigade while the unit operates the nation’s vital interests. with partners to conduct homeland Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Iraqi see MISSION pg. 7 Rock’s Support Soldiers focus on battery training artillery fires in support of the 3rd patrolling techniques and site secu- Armored Brigade Combat Team. rity. Both batteries’ biggest event, To improve capabilities in other however, was Chemical, Biological, areas, including stability operations, Radition, Nuclear, and Expolsive the battalion conducted Battery training. Focus training Jan. 6 through 31 on CBRNE refers to the Army’s abil- . ity to detect, defend and decontam- The batteries trained on a variety inate these types of unconventional Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Field of skill sets usually neglected while threats. Soldiers practiced using Arttillery Regiment provide securty during battery focus training, Jan. 6-10. preparing for the types of missions their protective gear and operating Story and photo by they executed over the past year. detection equipment and kits for Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Faris Battery A, “Automatic Steel,” various chemical agents. 1-10 FA Unit Public Affairs Rep. focused its training on operational The battery focus events provid- site security, traffic control points ed tough, realistic training to the Building a well-rounded force is and light infantry small-unit tactics Rock’s Support Soldiers. Honoring critical to maintaining a profession- to enhance its capabilities as an perishable skills prepares them for al, ready Army. Rock Support Sol- agile force. any mission the Army throws at dier’s with 1st Battalion, 10th Field Battery B, “Ragin’ Bulls,” prac- them. Artillery, have a mission to provide ticed using non-lethal weapons, Page 1 203rd BSB trains on sling load ops

Soldiers assigned to the 203rd Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, conduct sling load and medical evacuation training at Fort Benning, Ga., Feb. 5-6. The Eagle Battalion Soldiers teamed with the 2-3 General Support Aviation Battalion, headquartered at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Ga. The Eagle Battalion is focused on the rigorous training it takes to maintain mission readiness. (Photos by 1st Lt. Eileen Poole, 203rd BSB Unit Public Affairs Representative) 3-1 CAV says hello, goodbye to leaders

Capt. Jonathan Proctor, outgoing troop commander, Lt. Col. Paul Gunnison, squadron commander and Capt. Jonathan Mole, incoming troop commander, stand tall in front of the Soldiers of Troop B just after the troops’ guidon exchange during the change of command ceremony on Sledgehammer Field, Fort Benning, Ga., Jan. 15.

TheSledgehammer Times is published in the 3rd ABCT Commander interest of the Service members of 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. Col. Charles Costanza TheSledgehammer Times is an Army-fund- 3rd ABCT Command Sergeant Major ed newsletter authorized for members of the Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Green U.S. Army under the provisions of AR 360-1, 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Officer contents of Sledgehammer Times are not nec- Maj. Ellis Gales Jr. essarily the official views of, nor endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of Defense 3rd ABCT Public Affairs NCOIC or Department of the Army. TheSledgeham - Staff Writer mer Times welcomes columns, commentaries, Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler articles and letters from our readers. Send sub- 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Staff Writer missions or comments to pao.sledgehammer. [email protected]. The editorial staff reserves the Design/Editor right to edit for security, accuracy, propriety, Sgt. Stephanie Woodson

Page 2 Commander’s Corner

Col. Charles Costanza Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Green Hammer 6 Hammer 7 The beginning of the year started known to 3rd ID Soldiers as ‘Focus’ The reason for our many success to heat up for the Sledgehammer training events. stories throughout the years is be- Brigade despite some unusually Soldiers of 2-69 Armor Regiment cause the Sledgehammer families cold temperatures here in Georgia. were first to complete its battalion are the backbone of our brigade. It’s The Soldiers returned from their focus, closing out the month with important to keep an open line of holiday break refreshed and ready Panther Focus. Battalion-level focus communication with them. to begin a new year of training. training gives units the ability to Contact your battalion’s Family Most of the battalions participat- become proficient in their mis- Readiness Support Assistant or ed in a series of Emergency Deploy- sion-essential tasks. family readiness group leader for ment Readiness Exercises (EDREs) In the upcoming weeks and more information regarding these which will prepare the brigade to months, units will continue to hone upcoming meetings. respond to threats and contingen- their skills during collective train- Before you turn the page, we’d like cies. An EDRE focuses on move- ing events. to say thank you for your continued ment plans for deployments to a Sledgehammer Soldiers have support of the brigade. We’ve only designated location, and deployable always been at the tip of the spear completed one full month of the units normally conduct the training when it comes to answering the year but we’re excited to see what annually. nation’s call, and the training we’re the rest of 2014 will hold. The XVIII Airborne Corps, high- conducting today will ensure we’re er headquarters for 3rd Infantry able to build upon our legacy. SLEDGEHAMMER!! Division, executes a highly de- We know many of you have ques- manding EDRE program to ensure tions regarding the future of the all organizations can meet crisis brigade. Our battalion command response timelines. teams have scheduled town hall and In addition to EDREs, units family readiness group meetings either wrapped up or started their to answer any questions you may capstone field training exercises, have.

Page 3 1-15 IN

Lt. Col. Scott Mueller Command Sgt. Maj. Phil Barretto

After returning from the holi- may be present in the area in which expert standards, the Soldiers not day break our battalion seamlessly they are operating. Now that we are only performed extremely well, transitioned back into the rigorous fully equipped for the task, we ex- they also trained several Joint Tac- training regime we had put on pect to take on an active approach tical Air Controllers from the 15th hold during the break. Throughout to media relations and seek out Air Support Operations Squadron, January, we continued conducting media sources to tell the Army and Detachment 1 located here on Fort tough, realistic training at a rapid “Can Do” story. Benning. pace. Also in January, Soldiers from As the battalion prepares for a Command Sgt. Maj. Barretto and Crusader Company lent a help- collective training event in Febru- I are proud to say that our Soldiers ing hand to the community they ary, the platoons and companies never cease to impress us with their proudly serve; they took their are continuing to train as teams, dedication, motivation and inno- service to our nation’s people to working to meld their individual vation in accomplishing any and all another level in serving food to tasks into a coordinated, combined tasks set before them. underprivileged Columbus area effort. January has been full of While completing training rang- residents. company level field exercises; all of ing from a mortar live-fire exercise It goes without saying that Com- which have been very successful in to “on-camera interviews” the “Can mand Sgt. Maj. Barretto and I demonstrating how well we have Do” Soldiers have proven them- cannot be prouder that our Soldiers been able to integrate all the mov- selves to be incredibly competent in sought out this community service ing parts of each team, squad and switching gears to adapt to whatev- opportunity and showed the peo- platoon. er role the situation requires. ple of Columbus that our Soldiers Command Sgt. Maj. Barretto and This month, the key leaders from strive to sincerely help the people I are very grateful to be able to lead every company in the battalion in their community in addition to this group of outstanding Soldiers. were instructed on the do’s and fighting and winning our nation’s Without each and every individual don’ts for on-camera interviews. wars. working tirelessly to support each With media playing an ever in- In a more traditional training other and the mission, our team creasing role in the way wars are exercise, the Heavy Mortar Platoon would not be as exceptional as it is fought and won it is necessary that from the Headquarters and Head- today. our Soldiers learn how to effectively quarters Company held a live fire and appropriately deal with report- exercise to sustain their proficiency Can Do!! ers and other media outlets that in mortar operations. Meeting

Page 4 Fire in the hole: 1-15 Inf. lauches mortars

Story by 1st Lt. Cliff Parsons section and how all the moving is very important that the JTACs 1-15 Inf. Unit Public Affairs Rep. parts come together to complete integrate with their Army coun- the mission is McCoy’s favorite part terparts because they often deploy On Jan. 10, the heavy mortar of being the FDC chief. with Soldiers. The joint training ex- platoon from 1st Battalion, 15th The purpose of the exercise was to ercise was an excellent opportunity Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored sustain the proficiency of the wide for both services to work together Brigade Combat Team , 3rd Infan- range of tasks associated with mor- to better the capabilities of their try Division, and Joint Tactical Air tar support. During the exercise, respective units. Controllers from the 15th Air Sup- the mortar section completed sev- When asked what his favorite port Operations Squadron (ASOS), eral different types of firing scenar- aspect of being the heavy mor- Detachment 1 conducted a live-fire ios. In some situations the mortar tar platoon leader was, Provorov mortar exercise at Red Cloud range. crews could see their target while in replied, “Leading a Platoon which They kicked off training early in the other scenarios they could not. has a unique mission, with Soldiers morning and trained for most of During simultaneous firing who have a very special skill set.” the day on several complex mortar missions, each of the mortars was The 1-15 Inf. does indeed have a support techniques and exercises. firing at a different target, requir- unique mission and its Soldiers The 120 mm heavy mortar pla- ing incredibly precise coordination demonstrated their special skill set toon consists of 20 Soldiers and two between the FDC and the Mortar with expert proficiency during their 120 mm mortars. Their role within Section. Additionally, the mortars live-fire exercise this month. the battalion is rather simple, as conducted a “hip shoot” drill in explained by platoon leader, 1st which the mortars were disassem- Lt. Stepan Provorov. “The Heavy bled as if they were conducting mortar platoon is a battalion level movement to simulate receiving a asset under the direct control of the call for fire mission while in transit. battalion commander.” To achieve the standard of The mission is to provide accu- “expert,” when the FDC called the rate, timely indirect fires in support fire mission in to the mortar sec- of battalion maneuver elements. tion, each gun crew was required However, executing this seemingly to assemble their mortar and begin simple mission is a very complex firing five immediate suppression series of steps that depend upon rounds in just 60 seconds. Provorov one another in order to be success- praised his Soldier’s performance ful. and specifically stated, “squad lead- The forward observers must first er Sgt. Jordan Goodman flawlessly send a target to the Fire Direction executed the hip shoot mission.” Center, and then the FDC tells the While firing 500 FRPC (Full Photos by: 1st lt. Cliff Parsons mortars which adjustments to make Range Practice Cartridges) Rounds, Soldiers from the Heavy Mortar Platoon, Head- to hit that target. Staff Sgt. Billy which provide a visible flash and quarters and Headquarters Company, 1-15 Inf. Regt. conduct live fire training to sustain their pro- McCoy is the Mortar Fire Direc- smoke on impact to aid in accuracy ficiency in indirect fire support for the battalion. tion Center Chief for the battalion’s the mortar platoon, fires support The battalion’s two 120mm mortars fired five-hun- dred FRPC (Full Range Practice Cartridge) rounds headquarters company; he is the section, and JTACs were able to which provide a visible flash and smoke cloud upon liaison between the FDC and the conduct sustained, quality training impact to aid in accuracy adjustments. 1-15 Inf. Regt.as well as Joint Tactical Air Controllers from mortar section. in mortar operations. the 15th Air Support Operations Squadron, De- He describes the firing steps as The Airmen from the 15th ASOS tachment participated in the joint training exercise. “making lemonade…because it’s a had the opportunity to get hands process and at the end it’s sweet.” on training and have a full under- The functionality of the mortar standing of mortar capabilities. It

Page 5 Soldiers give back to community as way of saying ‘thank you’ Story and photos by Sgt. Stephanie Woodson 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Office

Approximately 20 Soldiers with 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, helped prepare and serve the “Loaves and Fishes Meal” at the Howard Mott Center for Men in Columbus, Ga., Jan. 14. The Soldiers, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regi- ment, saw the event as an import- Soldiers from the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division prepare to go plates for the ant way to bond as a unit and give people within the community to take with them during the ‘Loaves and Fishes Meal Ticket Program’ at the back to the community that sup- Howard Mott Center for Men, Columbus, Ga., Jan.14. ports the Sledgehammer Brigade. The event was sponsored by the Valley Rescue Mission Center, which provides three meals a day Soldiers assigned to 3rd Armored as part of their “Loaves and Fishes Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infan- Meal Ticket Program.” try Division, serve people in the community sweets at the Howard “The center has been in existence Mott Center for Men, in Colum- for 50 years and has been serv- bus, Ga., Jan. 14. during the ‘Loaves and Fishes Meal’ daily meal dinner. ing the ‘Loaves and Fishes Meal’ on a daily basis regardless of the weather,” said Rhonda Mobley, the center’s executive director. “This is a program that is open to anyone in the community.” This range and receiving a box or gift tion program. meal is critical because it may be basket from people you don’t know A program lasts between 90 days the only meal they have to eat that who couldn’t afford to send it but and 12 months, depending on indi- day. It’s very important that it’s sent it,” Hill said. “So, this is my vidual needs. They do have a center nutritious and healthy, she added. way of saying ‘thank you’ to those available for women and children at Nearly 21 percent of Columbus who supported me.” a separate location. residents live in poverty. Hill said it brightens his day to see “The Valley Rescue Mission Cen- Making ends meet is a huge them smile and a great way for the ter is a nonprofit Christian organi- struggle, but Howard Mott Center Soldiers to come together as a team zation that does not receive govern- stands ready to meet those needs and give back to the community. ment funding; it relies solely on the through their daily “Loaves and In addition to serving meals, the generosity of the community,” said Fishes Meal Ticket Program.” center provides emergency shelter Mobley. “It’s always a good feeling to give and a goal-based addiction recov- This program is free because of back to the community,” said Staff ery program for men only. the generous monetary and food Sgt. Anthony Hill, an armored It also has a transient program donations, Mobley added.To read crewman assigned to the 1-15 In- that allows men to stay short-term more about the Valley Rescue fantry Battalion, 3rd ABCT. overnight, provides basic essentials Mission Center or discover ways “A lot of the new soldiers coming to men in need and affords men the to help, visit the website at www. haven’t experienced going down- opportunity to enter a rehabilita valleyrescuemission.net.

Page 6 MISSION from pg. 1 the brigade assumes its new role. leased his Vision and Strategic “This is a new mission for the These skills range from individual Priorities for the Army. Sledgehammer Brigade, one that to company-level tasks and drills. In this, Odierno spoke to the we’re very proud to take part in,” Each battalion completed a field importance of globally-respon- said Col. Charlie Costanza, com- training exercise that tested the Sol- sive and regionally-aligned units, mander of the Sledgehammer dier’s— and unit’s— ability to rap- stating its purpose is to “shape and Brigade. “Most of our Soldiers are idly employ a variety of operations set theaters for regional command- used to deploying to the Middle relating to homeland defense, relief ers employing unique Total Army East. We welcome the opportunity and civil support and theater securi- characteristics and capabilities to to serve our Nation right here in ty cooperation. influence the security environment, North America.” “We want to develop teams that are build trust, develop relationship Costanza said the brigade’s focus culturally and strategically aware so and gain access through rotational over the last few months has been they are able to foster an improved forces, multilateral exercises…and on building and training a phys- partnership between the United other opportunities.” ically fit, disciplined and profes- States and partnered nations,” he sional team of experts in funda- added. mental Soldier skills, who will best On Feb. 20, Gen. Raymond represent the United States when Odierno, Army Chief of Staff, re- ‘Can Do’ Soldiers conduct joint weapons training

Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment , 3rd Armred Brigade Comabt Team, 3rd Infantry Division, get in position and prepare to fire the SCAR Heavy M17, during a joint training with the Air Force, at Fort Benning, Ga., Jan. 22.

Story and photos by Sgt. Stephanie Woodson 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Office Col. John Traxler, commander of ion, 75th Ranger Regt. at Joint Base the 17th Special Tactics Squadron. Lewis-McChord, Wash.; and the Airmen from the 17th Special “This was truly a joint effort and a 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regt., at Tactics Squadron and more than benefit to everyone involved,” said Hunter Army Airfield located in 30 Soldiers assigned to 1st Battal- Traxler. “We get from the Army Savannah, Ga. ion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd all the time and now we have an “I’m excited to be training with Armored Brigade Combat Team, opportunity to give back.” another branch in the military 3rd Infantry Division, conducted He said that he looks forward to and have the chance to fire other joint weapons training Jan. 22. future training. weapons besides the M4,” said Pvt. The training focused on giving Since 2011, the 17th Special Teagon Costello, an infantryman Soldiers the opportunity to fire the Tactics Squadron has operated in assigned to 1-15 Inf. Glock 19, Special Forces Combat locations aligned solely with the Costello said the SCAR heavy Assault Rifle Heavy 17 and Special 75th Ranger Regiment. is the most advanced weapon he Combat Assault Rifle Sniper M20. The headquarters element is has fired. The opportunity to fire “This is a beginning of a great based at Fort Benning, Ga., but also different weapons was well worth relationship and a great chance for supports the 3rd Battalion, 75th the wait in the 22-degree weather, cross training,” said Air Force Lt. Ranger Regiment; the 2nd Battal- he added. Page 7 2-69 AR

Lt. Col. Dominick Edwards Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Reed

Through preparing for the field, weapons and equipment, processed angry civilians would protest and deploying and executing the train- administrative requirements, and possibly riot in front of the Soldier’s ing and conducting recovery and move out to their training area with fighting positions. maintenance of our Soldiers and the support of our logistical Sol- The platoons also negotiated an- equipment, the month of January diers in Renegade Company. other daunting task when they were was entirely “Panther Focus”. For the next three days, a new tested on their ability to operate in Immediately upon return from company was randomly alerted and a chemically contaminated envi- celebrating our holiday leave, tested on their ability to rapidly ronment. Panther Soldiers began to prepare deploy with minimal notice. Soldiers and leaders were chal- for their upcoming field training As each company arrived to their lenged as they rapidly moved to the events by updating Soldiers records, training area in the early dark of location of the chemical strike to inspecting weapons and equipment, each evening, the Soldiers and protect civilians from the area. and rehearsing their plans. leaders were tested on their ability Just to make it a little bit tougher, Goodman joined the Panther to secure an unknown piece of land the Soldiers also had to deal with team on Jan. 9, 2014, when he was or infrastructure quickly. random attacks from small enemy handed the company guidon and The companies were prepared groups wielding assault rifles. proudly stood with 1st Sgt. Joseph to secure their area but also had Upon redeployment from the J. McAuliffe and the rest of the Able another enemy they had not dealt six-day FTX, the companies were Company Soldiers on Sledgeham- with in a long time…the Georgia reunited with their families after all mer Field. cold temperatures. Soldiers and weapons were ac- Capt. Goodman was ready to Throughout the FTX, each pla- counted for. get his company prepared and toon was tested and evaluated on We are all extremely proud and deployed to his first field training their ability to deal with a variety of impressed with all that our great exercise with the Panther Battalion. situations. Speed and Power Soldiers accom- Bayonet Company was the first In addition to basic Soldier skills, plished in the month of January. company to practice alert and the platoons were required to We thank everyone for their deployment procedures on January interact with media personnel to support and look forward to our 21st. test their composure in front of a next event as we prepare for The Soldiers of Bayonet Com- camera and their ability to maintain and Bradley gunnery in the coming pany, along with select members operational security (OPSEC). months. of the battalion staff had a few These media engagements typi- hours to report to Kelley Hill, drew cally took place after a large mob of Speed and Power!!

Page 8 Dwight H. Johnson platoon PT Challenge Story and photo by Sgt. Jacob Stauber 2-69 AR Unit Public Affairs Rep.

On January 15th the Panther fam- ily honored one of their own Medal of Honor Recipients in the Spc. (5th Class Spc.) Dwight H. Johnson PT Challenge. Spc. Five Johnson is the sole tank crew member during the War to earn the Medal of Honor. Armed with only a .45 caliber pistol for majority of the engage- ment with enemy North Vietnam- ese Army, Johnson came to the aid of his fellow Soldiers in display of courage, well above the call of duty. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division power- ing through the cold to complete the 100 pull-ups during the Spc. fiveDwight Johnson Physical Johnson exited the safety of his Training Challenge, Jan. 15, Fort Benning, Ga. M48 tank, firing an exposed exte- rior .50 Calibar Browning Machine Gun. His immobilized tank was placed in the midst of an intense Soldiers and negotiating a one- team from 2nd Platoon, Bayonet fire fight, described as a “heavy vol- mile IOTV run, 100 pull-ups, 200 Company, finishing in 25:00 min- ume of anti-tank rocket, small arms sit-ups, 300 air squats, and finally, a utes flat. and automatic weapons fire,” but second one-mile IOTV run. Shortly behind Brabham’s team Johnson repeatedly exposed him- To be considered “Dwight John- was 1st Lt. Estes’s team from 3rd self to come to aid of fellow Panther son” certified a team had to com- Platoon, Company C ‘Cobra Com- Soldiers, as described in his Medal plete the events in less than 28 pany’ with a time of 25:15 min. of Honor Citation below: minutes. Bayonet Company took honors as “Now weaponless, Johnson ignored Each platoon in the Panther Bat- the top company with the highest the enemy fire around him, climbed talion entered two five man teams, average among team times. into his platoon sergeant’s tank, each led by the platoon leader and Spc. Hawthorne, who competed extricated a wounded crewmem- platoon sergeant, to compete for as part of Team One of the bat- ber and carried him to an armored the coveted “Panther Hammer,” talion fire support element said at personnel carrier. awarded for excellence by Lt. Col. the completion of his second trip He then returned to the same Edwards and Command Sgt. Maj. around the one-mile IOTV run tank and assisted in firing the main Reed at battalion level competi- route “It was a fun strenuous physi- gun until it jammed. tions. cal challenge that brought us closer In a magnificent display of cour- The Panther Hammer was award- together as a team.” age Johnson exited the tank and ed to 3rd Platoon, Company B again armed only with a .45 caliber Bayonet for having the fastest com- pistol, he engaged several North bined team totals with a finishing Vietnamese troops in close proxim- average time of 25:57 The platoon ity to the vehicle.” is led by 1st Lt. Luke Syrek and Sgt. The Spc. Dwight H. Johnson PT 1st Class Robert Nevels. The fastest Challenge honors his gallant action team but not the overall combined by forming a team of five Panther platoon was 1st Lt. Neil Brabham’s Page 9 Four babies and a lady Story by: Sgt. Stephanie Woodson 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Office The home of Spc. John LaJoice, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle system maintainer, assigned to Compa- ny A, 2nd Battalion 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- sion and his wife, Tracie, has not been the same since the birth of their fraternal boy quadruplets who were born at the Midtown Medical Center, Nov. 13, 2013. Karie, and her four brothers, Hunter, Charlie, Korie, John II, are the children of Spc. John LaJoice, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle system maintainer, assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion 69th Armor Regiment, The LaJoice couple already has 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division and his wife, Tracie. They are originally from one daughter, Karie, who was born Florida but live in Phenix City, Ala. The LaJoice family has been stationed at Fort Benning for more than premature at 24 weeks. The four two years. (Courtesy Photo) boys, Charlie, Korie, Hunter, and John II, were born at 32 weeks. “My first thought during the ultra contents from the esophagus is than two years, so they enjoyed the sound and seeing four babies was ‘I faulty. trip home for the holidays. need to start saving,’” said LaJoice. “Charlie and Hunter got released Both agreed the trip to Florida “We were foster parents prior to the same day and few days later with the four boys and daughter having our own children, so we John II came home. Dealing with was an adventure. The boys got knew what to expect.” them was pretty easy,” said LaJoice. hungry in the middle of the trip so During delivery, each baby had at “They would wake up every three they had to stop and find a restau- least three team members assigned to four hours to eat and then they rant to accommodate all four boys to them. They were called the “quad go back to sleep.” and their daughter. squad.” The teams were formed LaJoice calls Hunter his sleepy “We stopped at Burger King in several weeks prior and performed boy, because he can sleep through Tifton, Ga., where my daughter was mocked deliveries in addition to anything. able to play on the ground while we being on call, according to doctors. On the other hand, Charlie will took care of the boys,” said LaJoice. All the boys were not released at definitely let you know when he is “The ride back we did the same.” the same time due to medical rea- hungry. The time spent with the family in sons. Charlie and Hunter were the “He has a voice on him and Florida was a relief for all. Not only first to come home. can scream his head off,” LaJoice did they have help with the qua- “We didn’t know we were going to laughed. druplets but they were also able to have all four boys home for Christ- “Korie was released from the spend more time with their daugh- mas, because Korie has acid reflux hospital shortly before Christmas, ter. and the doctors wanted to get that so we were able to do last minute This New Year’s was different straight before he came home,” he shopping,” said LaJoice. “It was with the four boys but the LaJoice said. “So [we had to] wait and see not easy wrapping 30 presents and routine stayed the same - they kiss how his body adjust to the medica- taking care of five children and one each other and say “Happy New tion.” having special needs,” he added. Year” then go to bed. Acid reflux is a condition in The family is originally from which the stomach acids rise up Florida but live in Phenix City, into the esophagus because the Ala. The LaJoice family has been valve that separates the stomach stationed at Fort Benning for more Page 10 3-1 CAV

Lt. Col. Paul Gunnison Sgt. Maj. Stevie Jones

The beginningof the year marked Fort Knox, Ky., and Capt. Tom Blackhawk Focus, a week and a half a time of change for the Black- Flounders will move across post to long field training exercise meant to hawks. We started off fast, having serve as a small group instructor test both the Soldier and leader in a just come off of block leave, mo- at the Maneuver Captains Career wide array of tasks and skills. tivated and ready for the tough Course. Congratulations to 1st Lt. Marc training and missions during a new I would like to give special thanks Beaudoin for being selected as calendar year. and a job well done to Capt. Mabry, the division finalist for the Gen. The squadron rang in the New his wife Gloria, their two daugh- MacArthur Leadership Award. Year by conducting two troop level ters, Elayna and Cora, and also to Additionally he and his wife, 1st changes of command within two Capt. Tom Flounders and his wife, Lt. Morghan Beaudoin, were both weeks of our return with a third Jeanne. The Troopers appreciate selected for the Army’s Funded scheduled for the end of the month. the dedication these Families have Legal Education Program (FLEP). The Bone Crusher Troop wel- shown to the Squadron and the They both will make great Army comed Capt. Jonathan Mole to Army. Erica and I will miss you all. lawyers. their team Jan. 15, during a change Good luck in your future endeav- An awesome job by Sgt. 1st Class of command ceremony on Sledge- ors. “Til our next Post!” Ronald Lassiter, who coached our hammer Field. Changing focus, the squadron squadron’s basketball team to win Headhunter Troop welcomed conducted another emergency the pre-season title! We’re looking Capt. Jonathan Proctor and his deployment readiness exercise forward to seeing the team clinch wife, Courtney, to their ranks Jan. (EDRE). This time we alerted the another trophy during Hammer 16, 2014, when he took command troops in the middle of the day to Week March 31 to April 4. of the troop from Capt. Ryan Mab- test recall systems when Soldiers Thanks to every Soldier and ry. Proctor formerly commanded are in many different locations. family member for your continued Bone Crusher Troop. Capt. Lance The Desperado Troop continued support and for what you do for the Rae took command of Comanche maintenance on the squadron’s Blackhawks every day. Troop Jan. 31, from Capt. Tom vehicles. They worked very hard Flounders. at keeping our fleet fully mission Courageous and Faithful!! I have the utmost confidence in capable (FMC) and also installing all our new commanders. newer and more updated equip- Regarding our departing com- ment so the squadron would be manders, Capt. Mabry is headed ready for any mission assigned. to the 4th Cavalry Bridge (ACRC), Additionally, Troops prepared for

Page 11 3-1 CAV wins Commander’s Cup in preseason Story and photo by: John W. Peeler Fort Benning Bayonet & Saber

Fighting their way through the losers’ bracket, the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, completed their preseason quest Wednesday by lifting the Command- er’s Cup Preseason Basketball Tournament trophy in victory at the Smith Fitness Center gym. Following a win against perennial championship finalist US Army Medical Department Activity (MED- DAC) in the losers’ bracket finals, 3-1 Cav. completed a two-game winning finale over 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 58-36 in Game 1 and 48-34 in Game 2 to win the championship. In the Game 1 finals, 3-1 Cav. knotted the score at 13-13 and then went on a 22-point run to jump out on top 35-13 at the half. The 22-point first half lead by 3-1 Cav. was key in the Anthony McMillian (1) of 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, de- win, with both teams scoring 23 points in the second fends Marc Beaudion (12) of 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, as half to cap the scoring, which sent 3-1 Cav. and 3rd he moves the ball down the court Wednesday in the Commander’s Cup BSTB into a winner-take-all Game 2 championship. Preseason Basketball Tournament at the Smith Fitness Center gym. Fuquan Wilson led 3-1 Cav. with a team-high 11 points while 3rd BSTB had Anthony McMillian (11) BSTB player doing the most scoring. and Christopher Flippin (10) both finish with double “I told our players we needed to box out better, es- digits. pecially against their No. 10 (Benyle Jordan),” he said. In Game 2, 3-1 Cav. and 3rd BSTB were neck and “He was killing us on the offensive glass, and I told neck and with six minutes gone in the half were tied them to get a body on him and keep him off the glass.” 11-11, but by the half 3-1 Cav. held a 32-21 lead. Leading 3-1 Cav. in scoring during Game 2 of the By the 16 minute mark, 3rd BSTB battled back to tournament was Fred McDonald with 16 points, while within three points at 37-34, but 3-1 Cav. went on an Jordan led 3rd BSTB with nine points. 11-point run to close out the game 48-34 to win the preseason tournament. 3-1 Cav. coach Ronald Lassiter said the team showed a lot of heart in the final game of the championship. “Our legs were getting a little tired because we had already played two games previously,” he said. “So, I have to say we were fatigued, but the guys really stuck it out.” Lassiter credited the team’s success to the type of defense they played, and the easy looks they got on offense. “We played a man-to-man defense and needed to pressure the ball,” he said. “They were a lot bigger than we were so we needed that pressure to keep it up t e mp o.” He said the team got a few steals with the man-to- man defense and used the fast break to stay on top. As the second game neared its end and it appeared 3rd BSTB was drawing closer, Lassiter focused on the Page 12 1-10 FA

Lt. Col. Kevin Capra Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Wilson

The Rock’s Support hit the month in preparation for upcoming this month. They practiced and ground running in 2014. Coming training events. The staff conduct- honed their skill at helping units back from some well-deserved ed the training symposium whilst rapidly deploy. leave, we picked up where we left polishing plans for the Battalion’s The Spartans established a pri- off in December with our planning major training event, Rock Focus, vately owned vehicle storage lot and training. next month. The Battery began a and worked hard at comprehensive Battery Focus training exercis- new physical fitness program with vehicle services. This hard work es, rigorous physical training, and focus on road marching, combat- will enable them to move a unit professional development round- ives and CrossFit style workouts. quickly and efficiently from recall ed out our January. The battalion Alpha and Bravo Batteries con- to “wheels-up” in the event of an began the new year with a training ducted their Battery Focus training Emergency Deployment Readiness symposium involving command events in preparation for Rock Exercise (EDRE) or real-world rap- teams, staff, and Family Readiness Focus. One of the challenges of the id deployment situation. Group leadership to shape our long training this month is the atrophy This month, Sgt. 1st Class range training calendar for the next of some of these skills. Due to the Thompson of Headquaretrs and 18 months. missions that we performed in the Headquarters Battery graduated The importance of deconflicting past few years, Chemical, Biologi- the Master Gunners’ Course Jan. critical missions with training op- cal, Radiation, Nuclear, Explosive 17, at Fort Sill, Okla. The Master portunities and family events will defense, traffic control point (TCP) Gunners’ Course is one of the most go a long way to building a capable operations, and small-unit tactics challenging courses in the Army force as well as maintaining high were not a priority. and we are all proud of his hard resiliency in the months to come. The Soldiers of Alpha and Bravo work. On Jan. 29, the FRG had their Batteries stepped up to the chal- The Rock’s Support started 2014 monthly coffee group at Ben’s Chop lenge and took these tasks head-on. right and we will keep on going House hosted by Brie Crisp. The Alpha Battery also took time out to strong. Next month we take to the Brigade honored several spouses give back to the community. On field as a Battalion for Rock Focus for their dedication and volunteer- Jan. 9, they participated in a Habi- and then continue with prepara- ism including our own Annette tat for Humanity build. tions to assume our new mission Faris, Arayna Randall, Michelle Great work being men and in March. We, as always, will stand Spears, and Katie Wilkerson. women of character and helping to ready to answer our nation’s call. Thank you, ladies, for your service provide for those less fortunate. to The Rock’s Support! Golf Battery continued to enhance The Rock Support!! The Headhunters spent the their ability to support the Battalion

Page 13 HHB, 1-10 FA tops Company C, 1-29 in OT

Adrienne AndersonPeter McNeill of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Bat- talion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, looks to take a shot in Monday’s 54-50 win over Company C, 1st Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment. McNeill’s 19 points led all scorers.

Story and photo by Nick Duke Fort Benning Bayonet & Saber

In a back and forth affair that saw the two teams take a 34-31 lead. The two teams traded baskets for the swap leads throughout before eventually going to over- rest of the second half, eventually ending regulation time, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Bat- tied at 41. McNeill said the second half 1-29 scoring talion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment, defeated Compa- runs were due in large part to HHB 1-10’s impatience ny, 1st Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment, 54-50. on the offensive end of the floor. The game came down to the final seconds of over- “We got a little sloppy and were forcing shots and time, as 1-29 was set to inbound the ball with less just generally being careless, but we’ll work on that and than 10 seconds left and down by just two points. The we’ll get better as the games go by,” he said. inbound pass was rolled up the floor to save time, but McNeill’s 19 points led all scorers. before a 1-29 player could pick it up, it was stolen by “I just wanted to do everything I could and try my HHB 1-10, enabling HHB 1-10 to score the game’s hardest for my team,” he said. “That’s what it’s all final basket on a layup. 1-29 jumped out to an early about.” Jaime Neira led 1-29 with 16 points in the loss. lead, building a 13-5 lead in the first half. HHB 1-10 responded, however, going on a 19-5 run to end the first half and take a 24-18 lead into halftime. Peter McNeill, who led HHB 1-10 with 19 points, said the team switched to a 1-3-1 zone, which led to the 13-5 run. “We set our defense up in 1-3-1 zone and just turned up the intensity,” McNeill said. “Defense leads to offense, and that’s what worked for us.” The second half started much like the first, with 1-29 scoring the first six points to tie the game. HHB 1-10 then came firing back with a 7-0 run to retake the lead. 1-29 rallied yet again, however, going on a 10-0 run to

Page 14 Soldiers test policies, procedures for emergency readiness Story by: Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler 3rdABCT Public Affairs Office

It’s 8 p.m. and most soldiers are winding down for the evening, but for a company of soldiers in 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, the ringing of a phone, Feb. 9, delivered the news they would be deploying in the upcoming hours— the relaxing would have to wait. The Soldiers of Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, gathered equipment; drew weapons and ammunition; loaded baggage onto pallets; and verified their per- sonal data before loading vehicles and preparing to execute their Photos by: 1st lt. Cliff Parsons, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment Unit Public Affairs Rep. Soldiers with Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, mission. 3rd Infantry Division, load their gear on pallets, Feb. 10, during the company’s Emergency Deployment The mission was not an actual Response Exercise, or EDRE, at Fort Benning, Ga. deployment but an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise, or EDRE. An EDRE is designed as After receiving the call Sunday the battalion. This certification is a a realistic way to test the compa- evening, the soldiers immediately testament to the company’s ability ny’s standing operating procedures kicked into high-gear, as they had a to be ready to deploy in a quick, (SOP) for similar scenarios it may short window of time to complete and efficient, manner. encounter in the future. more than 15 tasks that would al- “This EDRE is important because Deployments can occur at any low them to be ready to deploy. it reminds us that this could be any time leaving the deploying unit “There are a lot of moving pieces scenario, at any time,” added the with little or no time to correct to this exercise,” explained Capt. Bellows Falls, Vt., native. training deficiencies. Deployable Abraham Anderson, Company A, The Soldiers, who stayed ahead units are required to conduct a 1-15 Inf. Reg. commander. “From of their scheduled timeline for the periodic EDRE throughout the the time they were alerted, they exercise, were packed and ready year in order to maintain readiness have been on the move, preparing to roll the convoy of vehicles out standards outlined in Army Field to deploy.” before the sun set, Feb. 10. Manual 3-35, Army Deployment EDRE is a part of collective But, as with any exercise, there are and Redeployment. training the company has been lessons to be learned. Those lessons, Companies and battalions train preparing for over the previous Anderson said, would be evalu- to meet unit and individual train- months. The objective of collective ated and incorporated into future ing requirements for deployment deployment training is to implant training. operations. In addition to Com- the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and “We are going to take this exercise pany A, other companies and abilities so it becomes a reflex activ- and use it as a place to build from battalions within the brigade have ity executed with precision. for our sustainment training, use it already conducted or are planning Before the company could execute to refine our SOPs and continue to to conduct an EDRE in the upcom- its EDRE, its readiness and reaction ensure our Soldiers are maintaining ing months. capabilities had to be certified by the most accurate alert rosters—

Page 15 those are key here,” said Anderson. want done differently next time, it on their mission essential task From another perspective, the but that’s why we do this— to catch list (METL) and gain and maintain exercise was the real-life execution things,” Warren said. proficiency, according to Chapter of several months-worth of meticu- The exercise was not without 2, Section 2-27, within FM 3-35. lous planning. challenges, though. The company, and battalion, plan “It always looks so much different “Keeping everybody motivated to conduct more EDREs through- on paper compared to when you has been the biggest challenge,” out the training cycle as a way to actually get out here and see the said Anderson. By keeping Sol- incorporate lessons learned and, Soldiers executing,” said Maj. Carl diers informed, he said the Soldiers most importantly, to maintain pro- Warren, the 3rd ABCT fire support remained motivated and looked ficiency. officer and a planner from Union- toward completing each task. In the meantime, Soldiers of town, Ala. “They [have done] an exceptional Company A, 1-15 Inf. Regt., have “Planning it is one thing, but then job with the exercise. I would say proven their preparedness if they you actually see it and sometimes it they are ready,” Anderson said. are called upon to defend the na- isn’t what you had thought or there Units must identify deployment tion at a moment’s notice. are things here and there you would as a mission essential task, annotate

Soldiers with Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infan- Soldiers with Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade try Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, find a moment to catch some sleep during the com- 3rd Infantry Division, load a bus destined for a pany’s Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise, Feb. 10. The Soldiers, who were alerted staged convoy during the company’s Emergency De- the night prior of a need to deploy on short notice, spent the night and early morning hours ployment Readiness Exercise, Feb. 10. The Soldiers, preparing their gear, drawing weapons and ammunition and loading pallets before be- who were alerted the night prior of a need to deploy ing placed in the holding area (pictured here) to conduct Soldier Processing Readiness and on short notice, spent the night and early morn- verify manifests. The exercise was designed as a realistic way to test the company’s stand- ing hours preparing their gear, drawing weapons ing operating procedures (SOP) for similar scenarios they may encounter in the future. and ammunition and loading pallets as part of the many short-notice tasks required during the EDRE.

Page 16 BSTB

Lt. Col. Lenard Thomas II Command Sgt. Maj. Carmelo Cruz

Command Sgt. Maj. Cruz and I On Jan. 23, we conducted a would like to thank you for your battalion hail & farewell where we continued support that has extend- welcomed our new battalion S3, ed into the new year. Maj. Mario Oliva along with 2nd Lt. Buffalo Brag All of the Soldiers returned safely William Bremner, who is serving as from our holiday block leave and our military police platoon leader. jumped right back into their jobs On a sad note, we bid farewell re-charged and ready for our up- to two fine officers, Capt. Jamie coming training. Walton, former Chaos Company The month of January was Commander, who is transitioning focused on the preparations for to Germany and 1st Lt. Samuel our Buffalo Focus Field Training Anderson, Beast Company, who is Exercise (FTX) that was conducted moving to Korea. Both officers will during the last week of the month. be greatly missed and we wish them Along with the Buffalo Focus the best of luck in their new assign- FTX, Alpha Company partici- ments. pated in the Military Intelligence Gunnery and Simulation Exercise Vigilance and Honor!! supported by the 3rd Brigade S2. Bravo Company and Headquar- ters and Headquarters Company provided signal and sustainment Photo by Sgt. Peter Holzer, 3ABCT Public Affairs support at multiple locations across Micha McAndrew “pins” the rank of sergeant first Fort Benning. Additionally, the Bri- class on the Army Combat Uniform of her husband, Matthew McAndrew, an unmanned aerial vehicle gade Headquarters and Headquar- operator with Headquarters and Headquarters ters Company exercised the Brigade Troop, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- Tactical Command Post. sion, during a ceremony, Feb. 13, at the 3rd BSTB In conjunction with our field headquarters. McAndrew, a Gainesville, Fla., native, has been serving in the for 14 training exercise we conducted years. He has been in 3rd ABCT since October 2007. small arms qualification ranges “This promotion would not have happened without honing our marksmanship skill on the help and support of all the leaders I have had the M4 rifle and M320 Grenade along the way,” he said. Launcher.

Page 17 Buffalo’s Mongolian hail and farewell Story and photos by 1st Lt. Stephanie Haynes 3rd BSTB Unit Public Affairs Rep.

Soldiers and families of the 3rd Capt. James Walton and his wife, Brigade Special Troops Battalion, Melissa, served with the battalion 3rd Armored Brigade Combat for over three years. Walton served Team, 3rd Infantry Division gath- in various positions and command- ered at the battalion for a hail and ed Charlie Company during the farewell, Jan. 23. deployment to Kuwait until Octo- Lt. Col. Lenard Thomas shows the battalion colors A hail and farewell is an Army ber 2013. that will be presented to the departing leaders of tradition that serves as an oppor- He was presented with unit colors 3rd BSTB, 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID, at the Buffalo Battal- ion Hail and Farewell held the Mongolian Fire Pit tunity to say goodbye to those who to remind him of his time spent in Columbus, Ga., Jan. 23. are leaving and to introduce those with the Buffalo Battalion. Mrs. who are coming in. Walton was also recognized for her The event was held at the Mongo- unwavering support to the Battal- lian Fire Pit in Columbus, Ga. Lt. ion and her service as the Charlie Col. Thomas II began the evening Company Family Readiness Leader welcoming Maj. Mario Oliva, 2nd during her husband’s command. Lt. William Bremner and their fam- She was presented with a red ilies. Both Oliva and Bremner were rose to signify the undying love ushered into the Buffalo family the Buffalo family has for her. She with “tidbits” of information about was also awarded the Achievement their hobbies and interests to share Medal for Civilian Service, which is with the group while their spouses the civilian equivalent to the Army were presented with a yellow rose Achievement Medal. First Lt. Samuel Anderson, Charlie Company, 3rd BSTB, 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID receives the battalion col- to welcome their new friendship. Thomas also bid farewell 1st Lt. ors during the Buffalo Battalion Hail and Farewell The hardest part of a hail and Samuel Anderson, a platoon leader held at the Mongolian Fire Pit in Columbus, Ga., farewell comes with the time to bid in Charlie Company. He was also Jan. 23. farewell to friends and families who presented colors to remind him of have served with the unit. his three years with the Battalion. Eagle Soldier recognized for substantial holiday contribution Story by 1st Lt. Eileen Poole 203rd BSB Unit Public Affairs Rep. A Soldier assigned to 203rd Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- sion, was honored for contributing to the Fort Benning Santa’s Castle this past holiday season at a ceremony held at Maj. Gen. Herbert McMaster’s residence, Jan. 21. Sgt. Jonathon Kistler and five friends from his motorcycle club collected more than 800 presents for the Fort Benning Santa’s Castle. Fort Benning Santa’s Castle provides toys to the children of Fort Benning Soldiers (E-4 and below) who are facing financial hardships at Christmas. The Fort Benning Santa’s Castle relies on donations to help provide these gifts to the Soldiers. Kistler and his friends took the months before Christmas to talk with local businesses, schools, and organiza- tions around the community to collect the large amount of gifts for donation. They were also directly responsible for ensuring that Soldiers were able to provide gifts to their children during the holiday season.

Page 18 Soldiers help local students build trust Story and photos by that they have leadership potential, Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler that they have the determination 3rd ABCT Public Affairs Office to do the course and that they have the motivation to finish it,” said the While their classmates were San Juan, Puerto Rico native. “We learning how to divide mixed have a role to tutor, mentor and numbers or discovering the land teach them our Army Values, and of giants in Gulliver’s Travels, 200 we take that very seriously.” 7th grade students from Muscogee The obstacle course, which is used County’s Blackmon Road Middle during WTC Air Assault Courses School were given a rare opportu- offered at Fort Benning, included nity to build skills they will carry a low belly crawl; an incline climb; with them for the rest of their lives, a confidence climb; high step over; according to the school’s assistant and rope bridge. principal Eric Grigsby. “The worst was trying to crawl On Jan. 9, with unusually frigid through that cold and wet dirt!” southern temperatures hovering said Ariel Hill, 13, one of the 200 around 40 degrees --thanks, in students who participated in the part, to the polar vortex that hit event. Hill isn’t going to let a little Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Special Troops the eastern United States--about bit of Georgia mud deter her from Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd 20 “Buffalo” soldiers from the 3rd her dreams of joining the Army one Infantry Division, spent the morning with the stu- dents at the Army National Guard Warrior Train- Brigade Special Troops Battalion, day. ing Center (WTC) on Harmony Church, where 3rd Armored Brigade Combat “I don’t know what I would want they were given the chance to test their physical and mental strength on a 12-station obstacle course. Team, 3rd Infantry Division, spent to do [in the Army] yet, but I the morning with the students at know that I want to serve when I the Army National Guard War- am older,” she said. “My granddad rior Training Center (WTC) on served 29 years. Well, 29 and a half- appreciate this opportunity, because Harmony Church, where they -almost 30--and I want to do the many of the students have never were given the chance to test their s am e .” had a chance to do this and many physical and mental strength on a Blackmon Road Middle School is may never have the chance to do it 12-station obstacle course not for located in Columbus, Ga., and has a again. the faint of heart. number of students whose parents Its important that we build them The students were broken into 10 are currently serving or have pre- up, allow them to trust in them- groups and, in true Army fashion, viously served in the military, said selves and trust in others.” given their tasks, conditions and Grigsby, who has held the assistant Grigsby was quick to emphasize standards and a safety brief. Safety principal position at Blackmon the importance of trust between the was the first priority, said 1st Lt. Road for the past two years. students and the Soldiers, because Robert Perez-Alemany, but moti- “The partnership we have with it hasn’t been earned in a day at an vation and determination were a the soldiers is beneficial in so many obstacle course. requirement as well. ways,” Grigsby explained. “They are “The soldiers come to the school Perez-Alemany, the training an integral part of our community. and they tutor the kids. They have officer with Headquarters and The students are building confi- come out for career day, and they Headquarters Company, 3rd BSTB, dence. They are learning to trust will tell them everything they know, spent nearly two months planning in themselves, in their peers and answer every question, and show the event for the students. He said in the [noncommissioned officers] these kids what it means to con- it was intended to accomplish three who are out here helping them and tribute, to show honor and respect,” goals. “We wanted to show them mentoring them…We very much said Grigsby.

Page 19 “Our school has a saying, ‘One and a good job for a hard day’s er Columbus “Partners in Educa- Blackmon.’ We have high expec- work. tion” was established in 1987 as tations for our students…We tell “We showed them that they could a joint venture of the Muscogee them you are a part of something complete this if they put their mind County School District and the larger than yourself’,” which is why to it, and they did,” said Perez-Ale- Greater Columbus Chamber of the partnership with the 3rd BSTB many. “Mission fulfilled.” Commerce. is so fitting, Grigsby explained-- the The 3rd BSTB and Blackmon It’s intended to improve educa- unit and Army values mirror that Road Middle School participate in tion by “stimulating meaningful of the school’s. monthly partnership activities on business and community involve- As the last rotation round horn Fort Benning and within Muscogee ment in public schools.” Through rang, and the rain began to trickle, County as part of the “Partners in partnership, “public and private students gathered their belong- Education” program. The two have schools are now able to tap resourc- ings and did a “double time” to the a well-established partnership, that es to meet the individual needs of bleachers, where Perez-Alemany has flourished over the last two each student body, provide excel- gave the students gave a quick years, said Perez-Alemany. lent education programming, and after action report, much like what According to the Columbus recognize achievement.” would follow any Army mission, Chamber of Commerce, the Great-

A Blackmon Road Middle School student pops her head up while taking a breaking from doing the low belly crawl, Jan. 9. The entire 7th grade was invited to complete a 12-station obstacle course at the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center by soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Armored Bri- gade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. The 3rd BSTB and Blackmon Road Middle School are paired together in a program called “Partners for Education,” which brings the two groups together monthly for ac- tivities at the school, as well as around Fort Benning.

Columbus, Ga., native Pfc. Kaylana Norris, a Soldier with Headquarters and Head- quarters Company, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, helps Ariel Hill, 13, a Blackmon Road Middle School student over a log and positions her onto a rope during one of 12 obstacles, Jan. 9, at the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center. Hill was one of the 200 7th grade students who spent the morning with 25 soldiers from HHC , 3rd BSTB, spent the morning at the obstacle course, which is typically used during Air Assault Courses.

Page 20 203rd BSB

Lt. Col. Brent Coryell Command Sgt. Maj. Kent Galvin

It’s been a pleasure to start the Another large endeavor of the Ea- be switching out with 1st Lt. Berry year off with such an outstanding gle Battalion this month has been as the Alpha Company Executive group of Soldiers and families. the five-year inspection services of Officer. We’ve had a great kick start to 2014 the Heavy Equipment Transporter There are a few upcoming events and I’m anticipating many excellent Systems (HETS) trailers belong- that you can mark on your calen- things as we soar ahead. ing to 233rd. Jan. 22 through 24, dars. The Eagle focus for January has 24 HETS trailers were inspected, The Battalion Cookbook is com- been equipment validation and which included 192 wheel end plete and ready for purchase. They soldier readiness in preparation inspections and over 240 man can be purchased from your com- for the upcoming Operation Eagle hours to complete the inspections pany command team for $15. Focus. Soldiers have been focused to standard. The five year inspec- A special thank you goes out to on vehicle and equipment main- tion service for the HETS trailers Mrs. Jennifer Griffin for taking the tenance to ensure that all vehicles consists of a thorough disassembly lead on the project and collecting and equipment are mission ready. of almost the entire trailer. more than 100 recipes from Sol- Soldiers have also been participat- The purpose of this disassembly diers and spouses for the cookbook. ing in weapons ranges to ensure a is to clean the trailer, lubricate and Team Eagle held a Heart walk/ high degree of proficiency is main- rotate moving parts, and replace run on Feb. 7 to raise awareness tained. any broken parts. The services for Heart disease and to promote Operation Eagle Focus will be are expected to take until May to healthy life style changes. our validation tool for the Battalion complete. As always, thank you for your Forward Logistics Element (FLE), The Eagle Battalion will also be continued support of the Eagle which consists of approximately 80 saying goodbye to a few great family. We appreciate everything Soldiers from across the compa- leaders in the coming weeks, while that every Eagle soldier, spouse, nies and will support disaster relief at the same time welcoming the and family member does to help in conjunction with other federal new faces and families of their this battalion run. agencies when called upon. The successors. Charlie Company purpose of the FLE validation is to commander, Capt. Aaron Griffin, rehearse rollout procedures, estab- will be changing command with lish a support area, conduct sling Capt. Erick Vines shortly. 1st Sgt. load operations, and to practice for Jimmy Mathews of Alpha Company participation in potential Emergen- will be changing responsibility with cy Deployment Readiness Exercises 1st Sgt. Alvin Gardner next week. (EDRE). 1st Lt. Kevin McKague will shortly

Page 21 Spouses recognized for selfless service to Sledgehammer Brigade Story and photos by [them] enough for what [they] do. ceremony was a success. Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler Not just for this brigade and Kel- “It’s important that we recognize 3ABCT Public Affairs ley Hill, but for our Army and our these volunteers because they have Work. Basketball practice. Din- soldiers and their families.” devoted so much of their own time ner. Homework. Laundry. These are For Kayleen Grider, a Cimarron, to Soldiers and other families. only a few things on a “to do” list Kan., native who was honored at They are full-time wives, mothers, for some military spouses— and the ceremony, it’s not about the and volunteers and we want them that’s only one day. recognition. to know just how much we appreci- For 27 3rd Armored Brigade Grider has been the FRG leader ate them for making the battalions Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- for Company C, 2nd Battalion, 69th and the brigade a better place,” sion, spouses, the list also includes Armor Regiment, since August 1, Taylor explained. Family Readiness Group meetings, 2012. She dedicates nearly 30 hours Costanza presented volunteers sending e-mail and making phone a month organizing potlucks, fun with a Certificate of Appreciation calls, and fundraising. It’s for these runs and fundraising events, as well on behalf of himself and Command reasons they were recognized as manning concession stands for Sgt. Maj. Michael D. Green, the during a volunteer award ceremony, other brigade-wide events. brigade command sergeant major. Jan. 24, at the Truscott Center on Much like her husband--Fort “I’ve been in the Army for 27 Kelley Hill. Worth, Texas, native Sgt. 1st Class years now, and the amount of Col. Charles D. Costanza, 3rd James Grider, a platoon sergeant volunteers on this Hill is amazing. ABCT commander, hosted the with 2-69 Armor Rgt.--ensures [The volunteers] really do make quarterly event, which applauded his Soldiers are taken care of, Mrs. Kelley Hill a neat and special place,” the volunteer efforts of spouses in Grider makes it her priority to sup- Costanza said. each of the brigade’s six battalions. port and inform their families. “I don’t know where [they] find “I love interacting with the wives the time to volunteer, because I and families, and knowing they know [they] don’t have it,” Costanza have things taken care of,” she said. said. “Each of them has the heart to “It’s extremely rewarding.” give something bigger than them- Grider was recognized for her selves and their families…These “exemplary devotion and enthusi- volunteers are really the backbone asm as a FRG leader,” as well as the of this brigade.” countless hours she volunteered “in Costanza joked that some spouses order to maintain unit readiness,” had a basketball team-sized fam- according the citation read by 1st ily but said, in all seriousness, the Lt. Chelsea Taylor, the ceremony’s countless hours of work each of lead planner and narrator. the women have dedicated to their “It involved a lot of planning and Col. Charles D. Costanza, commander respective unit’s FRG, and the bri- coordination because there were so of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat gade, is invaluable. many people involved in making Team, 3rd Infantry Division “Sledge- hammer” talks with Jamie Smith, a “You hear me say this about good sure this ceremony could happen,” spouse and Family Ready Group leader and great leaders all the time, and said the Washington, D.C., native, with Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, after presenting her what makes great leaders great is and strength management officer a Certificate of Appreciation for her one of the traits of being 100 per- with the 203rd Brigade Special volunteer efforts, Jan. 24, at the quar- terly Volunteer Award Ceremony. The cent selfless,” he said. “Every one of Troops Battalion, 3rd ABCT. ceremony recognized Smith, and 26 the volunteers in this room is 100 Despite some scheduling issues other volunteers from the brigade’s six battalions, for the countless hours they percent selfless...and we don’t thank with the holidays, Taylor said the have devoted to the organization.

Page 22 The following spouses were also recognized for their volunteer efforts 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment Michelle Allen Trisha Howard Annette Faris Michelle Spears Tracy Bigham Jamie Smith Arayna Randall Katie Wilkerson Amanda Caldwell Meredith Whithead 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion Marin Easter Pamela Breland Frances Perez 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment Xaviera Feliciano Melissa Walton Michelle Box Andrea Flagg Lori Young 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment Emma Foudray Roxanne Arnold 203rd Brigade Support Battalion Lauren Berry Jennifer Moorman Johanna Diaz Ivette Moretta

Col. Charles D. Costanza, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Col. Charles D. Costanza, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division “Sledgehammer” poses with Kayleen Grider, Fami- Team, 3rd Infantry Division “Sledgehammer” shakes the hand of Jennifer ly Readiness Group leader for Company C, 2nd Battalio, 69th Armor Regiment, Moorman while Johanna Diaz looks on, Jan. 24, at the brigade’s volunteer award after presenting her with a Certificate of Appreciation for her volunteer efforts, ceremony. Moorman was given a Certificate of Appreciation for her volunteer Jan. 24, at the quartly Volunteer Award Ceremony. The ceremony recognized work with the 203rd Brigade Support Battalion’s Family Readiness Group. smith, and 26 other volunteers from the brigade’s six battalions, for the countless Diaz also received a certificate for her commitment to the 203rd BSB FRG. “I hours they have devouted to the organization. “I don’t [volunteer] for the recog- don’t know where [they] find the time to volunteer, because I know [they] don’t nition, but I am honored to receive the award. I love interacting with the wives have it,” Costanza said. “We don’t thank [them] enough for what [they] do.” and families, and knowing they have things taken care of,” Grider said. Grider is the spouse of Sgt. 1st Class Jame Grider, a platoon sergeant with 2-69 Armor Rgt.

Page 23 FRSA Family readiness support assistants serve as a vital link be- tween the unit commander, the Soldier assigned to the unit, their families and community resources. FRSA duties include coordinating Family Readiness Group events, monthly meetings, childcare, and informational briefings to family members. FR- SA’s provide information on activities, trainings and events on post and the surrounding area. We assist Soldiers and families when making referrals to local agencies to include but not limit- ed to ACS, Tri-care, and Family Advocacy.

203rd BSB 1-15 IN Demeka Daniels Stacy Gray 3rd ABCT (706) 544-3216 (w) (706) 544-3362 (w) [email protected] [email protected] Vicky Rush (706) 544-2586 (w) [email protected]

3-3 BSTB 3-1 CAV Sgt. 1st Class Mark A. Berkley Sgt. 1st Class Julian Glascoe (706) 544-1216 (w) (706) 544-5788 (w) [email protected] [email protected]

1-10 FA 2-69 AR Stacy Gray Janel Daniels (706) 544-3362 (w) (706) 544-3121(w) [email protected] [email protected]

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