Sledgehammer Times “Not Fancy, Just Tough”

Volume 2, October 2013 Sledgehammer Times “Not fancy, just tough”

Page 1 Commander’s Corner

Col. Charles Costanza Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Green

Welcome to the second edition of ty. Thank you for your continued our ‘Sledgehammer Times’ month- support of the Sledgehammer Bri- ly newsletter. We look forward to the future gade and our Soldiers. possibilities and would like to take Things are ramping up for the this time to invite you all to the Your support shows in their per- brigade as we enter into the training city of Richland’s 16th annual Pig formance both on and off duty. phase of our redeployment cycle. Festival November 8-9. These Soldiers are part of some- Most notably, we conducted We’ll definitely be there to take thing special, and I hope you are training and testing for the Expert part in the festival. as proud as I am of their commit- Infantryman Badge last month and ment and dedication to serving our 29 of our Soldiers walked away For more details on the festival nation! with the badge. refer to the community section of the newsletter. Command Sgt. Maj. Green and I SLEDGEHAMMER! are extremely proud of the Soldiers Sledgehammer Soldiers have for their hard work and commit- been very active in the community ment. participating in various community service projects to include Warrior In addition to training, our goal Outreach, which remodels homes is to make a positive impact in the for widows of veterans, and Habitat surrounding communities. for Humanity.

Stewart County leaders hosted We are one with the community a community relations meeting to and believe it’s important to im- discuss ways we can build a strong prove upon the places our families relationship with our partner coun- live, work and play.

Page 2 Table of Contents Pg. 4 1-15 IN Commander’s Corner Pg. 5 Raven: Giving Our Soldiers the Edge in Combat Pg. 7 2-69 AR Commander’s Corner Pg. 9 Green Patch Brigade Legacy Pg. 10 Sledgehammer Soldiers Lend a Helping Hand Pg. 11 3-1 CAV Commander’s Corner Pg. 12 3-1 CAV Conducts HF Radio Training Pg. 13 3-1 CAV Photo Collage Pg. 14 1-10 FA Commander’s Corner Pg. 15 Redlegs Compete Pg. 16 BSTB Commander’s Corner Pg. 17 BSTB Org Day Photo Collage Pg. 18 Companies vie for the 3BSTB Commander’s Cup Pg. 19 Soldiers Earn EIB Pg. 20 203rd BSB Commander’s Corner Pg. 21 Sledgehammer Soldier Selected for All Army Basketball Camp Pg. 22 Football Schedule/Scores Pg. 24 Community Events Pg. 25 FRSA Contact Roster pg. 26 Spc. Bobby Lee Woolf Memorial

Page 3 1-15 IN

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

Last month’s focus for Soldiers and command post digital systems the 40-hour Vehicle Crew Evalua- in 1-15 IN was the execution of training with select members of tors (VCE) course and the Bradley testing for the Expert Infantryman the Battalion Staff. Our Forward Master Gunner’s School. Company Badge (EIB). Infantry companies Support Company (FSC) provided Family Readiness Groups and the executed EIB testing, property in- critical weapons maintenance and Battalion Family Readiness Group ventories and maneuver training at logistical support to the EIB site (FRG) continued planning for Fam- the Fire-team level. Armor compa- while simultaneously executing day ily-oriented events for Halloween nies focused on day and night land and night drivers training. and Hail & Farewells for newcom- navigation with maps and com- ers as well as for those departing passes, using both dead-reckoning With the conclusion of EIB, the the Battalion. Other planned events techniques and terrain association infantry companies shifted their include upcoming FRG meetings techniques to complete the com- focus to team and squad live fires and potluck dinners. plex course. for October and November, while the tank companies and BFV crews This has been another great The Mortar Platoon continued continued to focus on Gunnery month serving in 1-15 IN. We have with After-Operations Maintenance Skills. Across the Battalion, we con- executed a lot of tough training (AOM) following live-fire certi- tinue to take full advantage of our as we continue to build a lethal fications while the Scout Platoon time in tank and BFV simulators and capable force, lead by trained successfully completed Gunnery to ensure all of our crews meet the officers and non-commissioned Skills Testing with 3-1 CAV in requisite gates prior to gunnery. officers, and supported by resilient preparation of Humvee Gunnery. Families. I am extremely thankful The Battalion Staff continued the Finally, tank and Bradley mainte- for what our Soldiers, Leaders and Military Decision-Making Process nance continues to focus on turrets Families accomplish every day as (MDMP) on tank and Bradley and fire control systems as we begin part of our CAN DO Battalion Fighting Vehicle (BFV) Gunner- to transition into a gunnery focus team. ies and executed Staff training, for the next quarter. 1-15 IN Sol- led by the Battalion XO. Enabler diers and Leaders continue to max- training included Advanced Raven imize availability of Fort Benning CAN DO!!! Operators (UAS) training, led by schools, with Soldiers graduating the Battalion Intelligence Officer from Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger,

Page 4 Raven: Giving Our Soldiers the Edge in Combat

Story by 2nd Lt. Aaron Cindric

The 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment has been working hand in hand with the Master Raven Trainer School to develop advanced Raven techniques. These techniques will give our Soldiers unprecedented situational awareness while conducting current and future combat operations. The RQ- 11B Raven is a light, man portable unmanned aircraft system used for surveillance. This Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform helps reduce uncertainty on the battlefield giving Soldiers the edge during the fight.

The RQ-11B Raven is a rucksack Capt. Cross, 1-15 IN, performs a well executed throw to show other portable, unmanned aircraft system trainees the correct form for a successful launch. weighing less than five pounds. It can be hand launched and operated different situations such as convoy iment encompasses almost all as- by one or two personnel. A remote security, route reconnaissance, pects of training on Fort Benning. viewing terminal can be used to conducting battle damage assess- One of their many areas include the provide commanders with live vid- ments, target acquisition and more. Master Raven Trainer School. eo feed of real time threats. Snap- Its sensor platform is designed to shots can be taken with all relevant provide day or night, real-time The mission for the Master Train- targeting telemetry and disseminat- video imagery wirelessly to a por- er School is “to develop the combat ed to those who need it. The Raven table ground control station. This related functional skills of Sol- can be launched up to 10,500 MSL provides for an “over the hill” and diers whose mission is to qualify (Mean Sea Level) with a continu- “around the corner” reconnaissance selected Soldiers as SUAS (Small ous flight time of 60-90 minutes. capability to tactical units. Unmanned Aircraft System) Master Trainers to certify SUAS Operators In the Counter Insurgency Sgt. Hogan is the newly appoint- and assist commanders in em- (COIN) operating environment the ed Brigade Master Trainer for 3rd ploying Small Unmanned Aircraft RQ-11B Raven is a key asset for Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. Systems.” The 1-15 IN and 3rd troops on the ground. So much so He has been working closely with ABCT are in a unique position to that the U.S. Army just put in their subject matter experts from the profit from the proximity of the final installment of roughly $13.8 Advanced Raven School to devel- SUAS school. This relationship million dollars to complete their op advanced tactics, techniques has allowed 1-15 IN and 3rd ABCT original $59.6 million dollar order and procedures (TTPs) that will to stand up an effective Brigade which boosts the fleet from 1,700 enhance intelligence collection wide training program for Raven to roughly 2,300 systems. The throughout 3rd Infantry Division. operators in a few short months. Raven can be used in a variety of 2nd Battalion, 29th Infantry Reg- The Brigade Raven training pro-

Page 5 ability to fly the RQ-11B Raven system in combat. Commanders and Soldiers alike have much to gain from the suc- Hogan, the Sledgehammer cessful implementation of this pro- Brigade master trainer, expressed gram. The Raven is already saving some of his thoughts and excite- lives and allowing our Soldiers to Spc. Withrow helps guide Sgt. Paden onto de- ment on the improved Raven win on the battlefields of Afghani- coy tank targets located around Lee field using Falcon View; a program synced to the Raven training program. The Raven is the stan and previously those in Iraq. that the commander can use to track and see only organic (ISR) asset that as the the Raven feed. ability to provide the Commander The 3rd ABCT and the SUAS with situational awareness with school’s development of new TTPs little to no risk to Soldiers on the is yet another tool to minimize the gram has already conducted three ground. risk to our Soldiers in combat and Basic Raven Operator Courses and ensure victory on the battlefield of is currently conducting the first of “We are starting the Brigade today and tomorrow. many Advanced Raven Operators master SUAS training program Courses. with the intent of increasing the maneuver battalions’ organic ISR Some of the advanced flying capabilities. The battalion master techniques that are taught to select trainers conduct currency flights personnel are considered high risk. and ensure the aircrew training plan Only operators that have success- is followed. They will also assist fully completed and excelled in the the brigade master trainer to certify basic operators course are selected new operators,” Hogan said. for advanced raven training. Tasks “I’m very excited about the oppor- trained include covert approaches, tunity to improve upon this pro- Raven handoffs, remote launches, gram for the brigade. By having infrared flights, and low level fly- a multitude of operators in each ing. These techniques will test the maneuver battalion we will be able vehicle operator’s knowledge and to achieve a new level of situational awareness on the battlefield.”

Spc. Withrow, 2-69 Armor Soldier, having a successful launch of the RQ-11B raven.

RQ-11B immediately after take off.

Page 6 2-69 AR

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

The month of September saw EIB testing have been preparing announce our newly pinned Expert our Speed and Power Soldiers their lanes, becoming proficient Infantrymen. Only the best infan- and leaders working diligently in on their tasks and undergoing trymen can earn the privilege to be preparation for some big upcoming an extensive certification process awarded this coveted badge, and training events. to ensure their mastery before we look forward to seeing who will testing our EIB Candidates. Our pass. The Infantry companies, snip- candidates have been training on ers, and mortar platoon focused the tasks and making final prepa- We have received a lot of new Sol- on training for and earning their rations for their upcoming eval- diers in the Infantry and tank com- Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB), uation. The EIB events include panies over the summer, and now while the armor companies focused training on all of the weapons as we prepare for platoon training, on individual through platoon level that are in the Infantry platoon company training, and gunnery, we training. such as the M2A1 .50 caliber must ensure they can safely operate machine gun, M240 7.62mm ma- our vehicles. Also last month, our forward sup- chine gun, M249 5.56mm Squad port company qualified their crews Automatic Weapon (SAW). They As such, we have been preparing in preparation for their upcoming must also demonstrate proficien- for a driver’s training. Leaders are un-stabilized gunnery, while the cy at land navigation during both ensuring that their Soldiers meet battalion’s scouts have been pre- the day and night. the Army’s safety standards re- paring for their upcoming Bradley quirements prior to the upcoming Gunnery. Following lane training on a battalion level driver’s training and variety of tactical tasks, all can- road testing. Specific requirements The EIB is the symbol of tradi- didates must complete a 12 mile include ensuring Soldiers have tion for the U.S. Infantrymen that foot march in less than 3 hours. appropriate classroom training on played a vital role in the defense of Infantry Soldiers from Able, how to safely operate a military our nation past, present, future. It Bayonet, and Hellcat Companies vehicle and accident avoidance represents the U.S. Infantry’s tough, have been conducting land nav- training. hard hitting role in combat and igation training and marksman- symbolizes proficiency in Infantry ship training in preparation for Dealer Company Soldiers and skills. this evaluation. leaders took the time to experience Fort Benning’s Combat Driver’s For the past month, Cadre for Next month, we will proudly Training for Tactical Vehicles sim-

Page 7 ulator, preparing their Soldiers by platoon’s worth of tanks and main- crews have been using simulators providing vehicle driver’s training tenance vehicles to an objective on as well as firing on actual ranges as in a simulated armored vehicle. The a simulated tactical mission. This they prepare for the gunnery. After driver’s training will culminate in gave the company the opportunity the upcoming training event, the road testing in our actual vehicles to rehearse preparing for opera- vehicle crews of these M88 recovery to ensure all of our newly assigned tions, executing the troop leading vehicles and Light Medium Tactical Soldiers can safely operate their procedures, rehearsing tactical Vehicles (LMTVs) will be qualified assigned vehicles during all upcom- reporting and conducting mainte- and ready to defend their compa- ing training. nance before, during, and after the ny’s convoys in the event of enemy operation. For many of our Soldiers contact. On August 29, 2013, Cobra Com- it was their first time on the tanks pany changed commanders. The since arriving in 2-69 AR, and they CSM Reed and I are very excited company said farewell to Captain learned a lot about their chosen about what our great Speed and Daniel Grogan as they hailed profession. Power Soldiers have accomplished Captain John Manuel as their new in the past month and know they company commander. Preparations have been under- will do even greater things in the way for the past couple of weeks coming months. We will have a full Captain Grogan spent 12 months for the upcoming Scout Bradley wrap-up in the next issue from EIB as “Cobra 6”. During Captain Gunnery. Scout Bradley crews have testing and Scout Bradley Gunnery. Grogan’s tenure as commander, he been conducting crew drill training led his company to place first in and gunnery skills testing. Crew SPEED and POWER! the battalion’s “Turkey Bowl” flag drills include fire drills, rollover football tournament in November drills, and fire commands. Gun- 2012. This same team later placed nery skills consist of disassembly, 3rd within the brigade. He also led assembly and functions checks of his company to have the highest weapons systems to include the platoon average in the battalion M240 coaxial machine gun and the during Tank Gunnery in December M242 Bushmaster 25 mm chain-fed 2012. auto-cannon.

In the summer of 2013, Captain All of our Scout Bradley crews are Grogan led Cobra Company as they working diligently to be recognized were tasked to run deployment as the Bradley crew with the best operations in the battalion assumed gunnery score in order to receive CRC mission. We would like to the top gun award. Who will it be? thank Captain Daniel Grogan for We will find out soon. his leadership and service. We are very glad to welcome Capt. Manuel, Renegade Company has been his wife Christen, and son Con- preparing for their upcoming rad to Cobra Company and look unstabilized gunnery, where they forward to their leadership in the will mount their machine guns to future. the turrets of their vehicles and move down the range executing a This past month, Cobra Compa- series of live fire engagements. The ny took the opportunity to do a 10 company has qualified their vehicle mile company tactical road march crewmembers on their assigned in their M1A2 Sep v2 Tanks, some- M2A1 .50 caliber machine gun thing the company had not done in and M240 7.62mm machine guns nine months. In “Operation Cobra in preparation for this upcoming Strike,” they deployed their three training event. The gunners and

Page 8 Green Patch Brigade Legacy On September 12, 2013, during in OIF I. As the brigade prepared encountered an officer from the -Di a battalion closeout formation, Lt. to deploy to Kuwait and then later vision Intelligence section who not- Col. Dom Edwards, commander into Iraq, the brigade was quickly ed the green patch on his uniform. of the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor supplied with desert camouflage The staff officer led then-Capt. Regiment, welcomed one of his uniforms (DCUs) but not supplied Miseli to a group of captured Iraqis old comrades, who was a for- with the tan name tapes and unit and said they all had surrendered to mer company commander in the patches that went with the uni- 2-69 AR and then told the story of “Speed and Power” Battalion, to forms. At the time, Gen. Daniel Al- why the Iraqis were seemingly sur- share an amazing story about the lyn was Hammer 6 and he made the rendering. During interrogations, unit’s history. Lt. Col. Jay Mise- decision to use the green patches all of the Iraqi Republican Guard li (now the commander of 1st from their woodland camouflaged soldiers continued to say, “The rea- Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, Battle Dress Uniforms (BDUs) on son we gave up is because we were “Garry Owen”, at Fort Hood, Tex- their DCUs in an attempt to save fighting the ‘Green Patch Brigade.’ as) was at Fort Benning, Ga. for our Soldiers’ money. This solution They are fighting so well that we the Maneuver Center of Excel- began the legacy of the “Green know they lence Conference. are your Ar- Lt. Col. Miseli my’s special commanded forces and we Cobra and Hellcat do not want companies when to be killed.” he was assigned Lt. Col. Jay to the “Speed and Miseli con- Power” Battalion veyed that more than ten the brigade years ago. Of note, and battal- he commanded ion was so and deployed lethal and Hellcat Company feared that it in Operation Iraqi sparked the Freedom I (OIF immediate I). Lt. Col. Miseli’s surrender personal history Lt. Col. Jay Miselli shares personal experiences from his time in 2nd of countless lesson and story was at Republican a very appropriate time Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment and explains the story of the “Green Patch Brigade”. Guard soldiers. for two reasons. First, He concluded the nation was remembering Patch Brigade,” as the Hammer by telling us that the Sledgehammer the tragedies of 9/11/2001 the Brigade soon became known. Brigade was unofficially called the day prior, and the actions that Lt. Col. Miseli spoke of the “Speed Green Patch Brigade for years and sparked the wars in Iraq and Af- and Power” Battalion as it led the still is in some circles. ghanistan. Second, he delivered attack across the berm into Iraq and The 2013 Panthers walked away the address on the anniversary pushed across the Iraqi border on from that formation more informed of President Bush’s presentation March 19, 2003, to initiate the war of their unit’s history with a sense of the Presidential Unit Citation in Iraq. After days of tough fight- of pride that comes with being a to the 3rd Infantry Division for ing, the Speed and Power Soldiers part of a legacy. Special thanks go actions in OIF I – actions he was noticed large numbers of Repub- out to Lt. Col. Jay Miseli for sharing a key player in. lican Guard were surrendering to some of the unit’s history with the Lt. Col. Miseli told the story of their companies. They assumed this Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 69th how the brigade became known was the case across the entire Divi- Armor Regiment. as “The Green Patch Brigade” by sion, but soon learned otherwise. both enemy and friendly units Lt. Col. Miseli said that one day he

Page 9 Sledgehammer Soldiers lend a helping hand

Story By: Sgt. Stephanie Woodson

Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Ar- While he was working, he noticed Mrs. Brown walking around mored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, participated smiling a couple of times and that made him feel really good. in a Warrior Outreach home repair project in Phenix City, Ala., Sept. 14. He was very surprised and shocked at himself because he volunteered to do this. He wasn’t forced or “volun-told,” as soldiers say. The project helped Helen Brown, widow of Bobby B. Brown, who served in the military until 1971. At the time of his death, “I called my mom when we got finished. She was shocked that March 22, 2011, he was an emergency management director. I got up early on a Saturday morning and did volunteer work on somebody else’s house,” said Robinson. “I received an email about the project and thought it would be a good way to establish team building, get soldiers involved in the She (his mother) also told him to keep it up, that the Army has community and out the barracks,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Gonza- changed him in a good way. Not only has the Army disciplined lez, a platoon sergeant assigned to 2-69 AR, 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID. “I him, but has taught him how to think about others. had seven soldiers volunteer for the project.” “I didn’t even see that until she said it,” said Robinson. This is Gonzalez’s second year volunteering.“Volunteering gives me the ability to bond with my soldiers. I get to know them better When he returned to the barracks he shared his experience with and how they feel about doing projects verses the everyday Army other soldiers and saw a different side of his platoon sergeant. job,” said Gonzalez. “Volunteering on Saturday wasn’t like work,” said Robinson. After hearing about the volunteer project, Pvt. Akbar Robinson, a native of Detroit, Mich., and a tank driver assigned to Company “The noncommissioned officers that were there talked to us and D, 2-69 AR, 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID decided that Saturday he would we interacted with each other on a different level.” not do the usual and sleep in. “I feel good about myself when I help others,” said Robinson. “I Instead he chose to exercise one of the seven Army values, appreciate the opportunity to volunteer and thank you for trusting selfless service. my hands to help others.”

On the ride to Phenix City Robinson didn’t really know what he volunteered himself to do, he just knew he volunteered. This was his first time volunteering since he joined the Army and didn’t mind because he used to volunteer back at home.

“The first thing I did when I got off the truck was look at the house. I said to myself ‘we got work to do.’” That’s all I was saying, ‘we got a lot of work to do,’” said Robinson.

“It’s a very nice house. You could tell if somebody worked on it, it could look really nice,” said Robinson. “We first sorted through the bricks that were stacked in front of her house. We moved those first because appearance is everything.”

Along with sorting through bricks, the soldiers did lawn work, cut down vines and bushes, picked up old peaches and removed old paint before applying new paint. Photo By Sgt. Stephanie Woodson

What kept him motivated was seeing other Soldiers, including Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored his platoon sergeant, working hard, sweating like they were doing Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, volunteered to physical training, and breaking their neck to get the job done, said participate in a Warrior Outreach home repair project in Phenix Robinson. City, Ala., Sept. 14.

Page 10 3-1 CAV

Lt. Col. Paul Gunnison ensuring crews are 100% prepared restore the warehouse’s presence. for specific vehicle and individual This all occurred during the bri- Greetings Blackhawk Families! requirements of gunnery, which gade’s day off. will commence Oct. 7. The Blackhawks continue to con- Our Troopers’ willingness to duct tough, realistic training across Troopers attended the 40 hour sacrifice their personal time for the Kelley Hill. block of instruction in order to local community is a terrific exam- complete drivers’ licensing on all ple of selfless service. The Squadron spent the month unit vehicles. of September conducting Expert Lastly, I would like to congratu- Infantryman Badge (EIB) training Check rides, both day and night, late Staff Sgt. Rezentes and Staff Sgt. and testing while remaining fo- were conducted across the Squad- Robin for graduating Bradley Mas- cused on Gunnery execution. ron on a number of vehicles over ter Gunner School and joining the varied terrain. ranks of the Master Gunners before Troops remain heavily engaged them who have been crucial assets in crew level training on the Brad- With (EIB) testing last month, to ensure the Squadron’s training ley Advanced Training Systems our Troopers worked diligently to throughout each year. (BATS). prepare for this grueling event. We look forward to seeing them Crews progressed through their The Squadron has nine Troopers apply their technical expertise gates to live fire by completing currently executing Brigade’s train during gunnery in October! BATS training which required up for this event. We look forward them to successfully fire two dis- to seeing all of our guys earn their To our Blackhawk Families, as tinguished simulated engagement badge. always, we thank you for your scenarios. continued support. You are why In other news, 20 Soldiers from many of us serve in this profession, Additionally, the Troops conduct- B Troop, led by 1st Lt. Chip Glass, and your support is what enables ed internal Gunnery Skills Testing volunteered their time to serve us to successfully perform our wide for both unstabilized and stabilized their community by working at range of duties and maintain our crews. the Habitat for Humanity Restore fighting effectiveness should we be located in Columbus, Ga. called to serve our great Nation. Troopers completed all GST training tasks. These Troopers volunteered to paint Restore’s entire warehouse, COURAGEOUS and This prepares the Troops by fill in pot holes, and other tasks to FAITHFUL

Page 11 3-1 CAV conducts HF Radio Training Training was provided on times leading the Brigade by the procedures for setting a more than 72 hours. Story by 1st Lt. Jevon Thomas Large Sloping Vee antenna and the programming the In being able to communi- PRC-150 HF radio in ALE cate with Fort Stewart from The 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Ar- and 3G+ modes utilizing the Fort Benning in a Garrison mored Brigade Combat Radio Programming Appli- environment, the Squadron Team, 3rd Infantry Division cation (RPA). demonstrates the technical conducted High Frequen- proficiency needed to effec- cy (HF) Radio Training The training proved to be tively conduct reconnais- on Aug. 22 and 27, at Fort beneficial by providing sance operations and wide Benning, Ga. and Fort Stew- time for Troopers to work area security missions, set- art, Ga., in order to provide through issues they may face ting conditions for the suc- the necessary training and during missions and estab- cess of the brigade combat knowledge to the Troopers lish communication with team! enabling them greater ac- other units. complishment of the mission. “Initially, two radios could communicate with each The training was success- other at the same locations, fully completed with Troop- but we could not establish ers communicating approx- contact between Benning imately 288 miles over to and Stewart. units at Fort Stewart, Ga., utilizing the Harris HF radio A continuation of the PRC-150. effort on a later date proved successful,” explained Capt. Robert Wright, the squad- The Communications-Elec- (From Left to right) Sgt. Smith, Sgt. Campfield, Spc. ron signal officer. Alexander and Sgt. Grant practice filling the radio tronic Command (CECOM) using the Radio Programming Application (RPA) Radio LAR at Fort Benning Aug. 22, 2013, at Fort Benning, Ga. provided time for 3-1 CAV, The distance between both 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID to con- units ranged 288 miles. duct High Frequency (HF) During offensive major training with a unit at Fort combat operations, the Stewart, Ga., using the Har- Squadron will be asked to ris HF radio PRC-150. operate in front of the Bri- gade Combat Team, some-

Page 12 3-1 CAV in action

Page 13 1-10 FA

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

Over the past month, The Rock’s and every training event. from the Advanced Leaders Course Support Battalion continued to in- (ALC): Staff Sgt. Gould, Staff Sgt. crease proficiency in delivering time- As the month concluded, our Rivers, Staff Sgt. Schrock, and Sgt. ly, accurate, and lethal fires in support Family Readiness Groups ramped Monroe. Staff Sgt. Gould performed of 3ABCT. Alpha and Bravo battery up their operations to rebuild their magnificently and was on the Com- began September conducting Artil- membership as well as their bank mandant’s List; a great credit to his lery Skills Proficiency Test (ASPT) accounts and provide THE Rock’s effort and professionalism. training. Crew drills, maintenance Support Soldiers and families with procedures, and practical exercises on support, fun activities, and begin The Battalion also welcomed four the M109A6 Paladin culminated the planning for future events. “Motor- new babies to The Rock’s Support month with testing and examinations pool Monday” returned and both family this month. Congratulations during the last week of August. Con- Golf Battery and HHB offered snacks, to Spc. Payton, Capt. Carter, Spc. current with the ASPT training Bravo drinks, and even full meals to the Sol- Madrano, and 1st Lt. Handley. The battery worked diligently on change diers during command maintenance. Battalion also had three Soldiers of command inventories. It was great to see our volunteers out from headquarters battery make the supporting our Soldiers during the Doughboy football team- Staff Sgt. As August continued, Alpha began dog days of August. The final event Ramel DeReese, Spc. Matthew Glid- conducting change of command of the month was the Rock Warrior den and Pfc. Mark Francis. inventories in preparation for their Dash. This challenging, buddy-team Change of Command. For HHB, event pushed participants to their The upcoming training events will the story was much the same with limits and provide some friendly further refine internal systems while regards to ASPT training for the competition between the batteries. we conduct Artillery Tables V and VI battalion fire direction center. The The focus of the Rock Warrior Dash and Radar Certification Table VI. The battalion also received an injection was a Crossfit and cardio-oriented battalion operations center will also of fire supporters as the fire support challenge consisting of 12 stations. be out in the field conduction oper- personnel across the brigade came There were awards for the best team ations and battle drills and we will under the operational control of 1-10 from each battery as well as the top validate and refine them during our FA to begin consolidated fire sup- overall teams. FRGs were again out artillery Table VI. With increased port training. The FISTers executed in force supporting the event and proficiency, THE Rock’s Support Bat- Engagement Skills Trainer training, promoted a festive competition prior talion remains prepared to provide observations post occupation train- to the Labor Day weekend. timely, accurate fires for the Sledge- ing, and written testing. Meanwhile, hammer Brigade regardless of time or Golf Battery continued to provided The battalion also had several location. incredible support maintenance and noteworthy accomplishments this THE Rock’s Support! logistical support throughout each month with four NCOs graduating

Page 14 Redlegs Compete Story By: Chief Warrant Officer 2 Robert Faris

On Aug. 29, 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Soldiers gathered to compete in a tough, challenging race at the 203rd BSB motor pool on Kelley Hill.

The 10-station event, known as The Rock’s Warrior Dash, brought the battalion together to build esprit de corps and earn bragging rights.

The Rock’s Support Battalion, under the command of Lt. Col. Sgt. 1st Class May, of Bravo Battery, competes in the burpee station while his partner 1st Lt. Hanley rests. Kevin Capra and Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Wilson, sent two-Soldier teams from each battery through a series of Crossfit style events on a 1.8 mile course.

The events included a 500m row, 50m litter carry, 50m tire flip, burpees, air squats, log press and carry, push-ups, box jump and kettle bell swing, Humvee push, and a 50m sprint carrying a 155mm inert artillery round weighing approximately 103 pounds. 1st Lt. Tinder and Sgt. 1st Class Caesar push a Humvee 50 meters. The top individual team was Spc. Meyers and Spc. Brown from Alpha Battery and the top battery was Alpha “Automatic Steel” Battery.

Page 15 BSTB

Lt. Col. Lenard Thomas II Command Sgt. Maj. Carmelo Cruz Buffalo Battalion Family and they recently received back and dedication demonstrated Friends, from RESET. by our Soldiers.

I want to thank you for your Bravo Company (Beast) Command Sgt. Maj. Cruz continued commitment to the executed new equipment train- and I would like to invite the Army and for the support that ing on their recently upgraded families and friends of the you provide to your Soldiers Communication Systems and Buffalo family to a Halloween assigned to the Buffalo family. crew proficiency drills for all “Trunk or Treat” Event on Oct. I am continuously amazed by of their communication teams. 29, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 the strength that you show each Chaos Company completed a p.m. located at the Battalion and every day. series of buddy team and squad Headquarters. live-fire exercises as part of Over the past month, the their annual Engineer Qual- Please bring the kids out and Battalion’s operational tempo ification validation and they enjoy the costume contest, fam- has steadily increased as we continue to train hard for their ily pictures, and of course the HHC (WARDOGs) conducted upcoming Bradley Fighting Ve- Halloween treats! a 3-day field training exercise hicle Gunnery in November. where they trained on Convoy It is a great honor to com- Security and Reconnaissance Brigade HHT (Hellraisers) mand this great Battalion. missions, vehicle recovery provided exceptional support Again, I offer my thanks and and field feeding operations. for the Expert Infantry Badge gratitude to all of the Families Additionally, HHC conduct- training and testing in support for your unconditional support. ed a crew-served machine of over 500 soldiers vying for With your support, the Soldiers gun familiarization range as the coveted EIB. of the Buffalo Battalion will they train for their December continue to excel! Un-Stabilized Gunnery. Alpha As you can see, this has been Company (Raptors) continued a very busy and productive VIGILANCE and HONOR! their specialized military intel- month for the Buffalo Battalion ligence training on equipment and I am awed by the hardwork

Page 16 BSTB ORG DAY

Page 17 Companies vie for the 3BSTB Commander’s Cup Story by 1st Lt. Stephanie Haynes and photos by Spc. Jenna Bass

On Aug. 31, the Buffalo Battalion conducted their annual Organizational Day to increase resiliency and build camaraderie across the battalion. The five companies of the BSTB meet each year to compete for the coveted Com- Bravo Company “Beasts” won the Commander’s Cup on Aug. 31, 2013, mander’s Cup. during the Buffalo Battalion Organizational Day held on Kelley Hill, Fort Benning, Ga. The companies vie for this in the day. annual award in hopes that they will have their unit’s Throughout the competition, name and current company the scores were so close that it commander permanently was unclear who would pre- added to the award. Soldiers vail and earn the top spot. are able to spend the day in friendly competition in lieu of The suspense ended during the normal day-to-day work the last event when the Bravo activities. Company “Beasts” won Tug of War. By winning the last The events opened with a event, Bravo Company cap- Battalion Run around Kelley tured the Commander’s Cup. Hill to promote and empha- size the unity and esprit de The BSTB Commander’s corps of the battalion before Cup will be housed in the Bra- the competition commenced. vo Company orderly room for On Aug. 31, the BSTB Commander This year, the companies com- the year until the companies Lt. Col. Lenard Thomas II served as peted in a multitude of events, meet again at next year’s Buf- a target in the dunk tank during the including a Guidon Relay, falo Battalion Organizational Buffalo Battalion Organizational Squad Cross Fit Challenge, Day. Day. Flag Football, Basketball, and Tug of War. Each company Congratulations to the Bravo was in first place at some point Company “Beasts”.

Page 18 Soldiers earn EIB

Story by Sgt. Stephanie Woodson assigned to Company B. out and I was successful,” Whit- “I told my parents that if they ten said. didn’t hear from me, that means “I received ‘true blue’ in all my Soldiers assigned to 3rd Ar- I was doing good,” said Ander- events.” mored Brigade Combat Team, son. True blue is a term used to de- 3rd Infantry Division, and other His dad said, “You know what scribe Soldiers who accomplish units earned the Expert Infan- you got to do, just go get it all EIB tasks with zero mistakes. tryman Badge at Fort Benning done!” According to the history of Sept. 27. Whereas, his mom was emo- the EIB, you don’t have to ask Of the more than 650 Soldiers tional and excited, said Ander- whether an EIB holder knows who attempted to earn the EIB, son. their job. 79 were successful. “I had to stop my mom from You can just look at the badge The EIB is a distinctive award, making plans and telling every- atop the ribbons on thier chest a silver Infantry musket on a body until it was over.” and have confidence in their rectangular blue background Since EIB’s inception, the tests competence. with a silver border. It was de- have been updated to keep pace The EIB test is one of the signed and approved for wear with the changes in tactics, doc- toughest physical and most de- October 1943. trine, and equipment. manding mental challenges one “As an Infantryman, you have “This was my first time going will ever face as an Infantryman. to know how to stay calm, cool, and collective while focusing on the task at hand,” said Sgt. Dustin Whitten, an Infantryman assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion 69th Armor Regiment. “It was difficult for me to take all this information in and then forget about it (until) test time.” The Soldiers trained for two months and had a week to train with the graders. “I had to prepare myself emo- tionally, physically and mentally,” said Whitten. “I had to perform expert in more than 63 tasks.” “During the physical training test, I would say, ‘I’m good. I Pfc. Taylor Anderson, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, got this’ and remind myself I’ve 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, unrolls the done this before,” said Pfc. Tyler firing wire before emplacing a Claymore mine during the EIB challenge. Anderson, an Infantryman also

Page 19 203rd BSB

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

son Dining Facility with the opening macist, additional physician, and nurse Eagle Family and Friends, of a new “Grab and Go” sandwich bar. case manager to provide continuity of The Warhawks have worked diligently care to Sledgehammer Soldiers. The Thank you for all that you do in sup- preparing the battalion tactical op- long-term plan would bring radio- porting the Eagle Battalion and your erations center in preparation for a logical imaging, laboratory testing, Soldiers. The Eagle Battalion’s main battalion TOCEX in October. dental services, Behavioral Health, and effort this past month was supporting Physical Therapy all under one roof to the Basic Combat Teams (BCTs) Ex- Alpha Company (Outlaw) began provide 90% of the care required on- pert Infantry Badge (EIB) qualification to transform our old motor pool into site on a daily basis. This will help our with medics, small arms repair, and a BCT refuel operation point. The Soldiers’ tremendously. food service. All companies have also Outlaw Supply Support Activity (SSA) 497th MCT and 233rd (Titans) Heavy been engaged in operating weapons continues to make tremendous prog- Equipment Transporter HET (Titans) ranges and qualifying Soldiers. The ress. The latest efficiency is the switch were very busy with over 60 HET BSB met its end of quarter goal of a from the Network Enterprise Center support missions transporting Bradley 90% or better qualification rate on (NEC) to the Very Small Aperture Ter- Fighting Vehicles and Tanks to Gun- all assigned weapons. The Support minal (VSAT) satellite. This allows our nery. Operations Officer (SPO) and Bravo warehouse to operate independently Company are now completely moved and not be tied to a fixed structure. Looking ahead, we are planning a in and operational in the BSB’s new Bravo Company (Wolfpack) is con- Halloween Trunk or Treat and Haunt- motor pool. We commemorated the tinuing to work on and develop the ed house on Oct. 29th. Companies are final move with an Organization Day new motor pool becoming the stan- preparing for a three day field exercise to allow families to see the new work dard for the Army. The company has in October where they will validate area and to increase resiliency and gone to great lengths to improve op- their Tactical Standard Operating Pro- build camaraderie across the battalion. erational efficiency, supply discipline, cedures as they set up operations in a Events included a Battalion Breast and reorganizing shop stock in order field environment. Companies also stay Cancer Awareness Family Fun Run, to improve unit efficiency. focused supporting Gunnery Opera- Tug of War, Tire Flip, and a three tions across the maneuver Battalions. legged race. We held a completion for Charlie Company (Painkillers) is best chili, best mac and cheese, and working on a Memorandum of Agree- Again, thank you for continually sup- best pasta salad. The winners received ment between Martin Army Commu- porting our Battalion and our Soldiers; honorable mention in the battalion nity Hospital (MACH) and 3rd BDE without you we couldn’t survive. cook book that is scheduled for release that will transfer our TMC to an Army on November 1st. Soldier Centered Medical Home (ASC- MH) by next October. This initiative Support and Defend HHC Company (Warhawks) contin- will bring additional resources and ca- ues to improve food service at the Gib- pabilities to our TMC such as a phar-

Page 20 Sledgehammer Soldier selected for

All-Armyhe got olderbasketball he began to develop a camp more competitive spirit and basket- Story by Sgt. Stephanie Woodson ball became his first love, Wheeless said. Even after playing on the Norfolk Playing varsity basketball State University team that upset throughout high school and being the No. 2 seeded Missouri Tigers in a shooting guard for the True Hope the 2012 NCAA basketball tour- Trail Blazers, which is an American nament, graduating magna cum Basketball Association team, Whee- laude, and playing for the semi-pro less has always maintained a desire team, Georgia Road Runners, in to play on the court. Columbus, Ga., 2nd Lt. Brandon Wheeless enlisted into the Navy Wheeless, a fuel and water pla- after attending a year of college at toon leader 203rd Brigade Support North Carolina A&T State Univer- Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade sity. Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Divi- He received some exposure in the sion, did not see this coming. Virginia area where he was sta- Wheeless recently received orders tioned by playing on the All-Navy basketball team. U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Brandon Wheeless, a stating he was one of 20 soldiers fuel and water platoon leader assigned to selected to compete during the Norfolk State University offered 203rd Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Ar- All-Army training camp at Fort Wheeless a scholarship to play bas- mored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry ketball when he finished his enlist- Division, is one of 20 soldiers selected Bragg, N.C. to attend the All-Army training camp at The training camp occurs year- ment with the Navy. “It was military appreciation Fort Bragg, N.C., Oct. 6 through Oct. 30. ly. Twenty soldiers are picked to Twelve of those individuals will play on attend the camp; after two weeks night, second game of the season the All-Army basketball team during the it’s cut down to 12 soldiers, said and a brigade commander from Armed Forces Championship in Great Coach Carl Little, a first lieutenant Fort Eustis came to the game,” said Lakes, Ill., Oct. 31, through Nov. 7. assigned to 2nd Battalion, 69th Ar- Wheeless. “He knew I was prior mor Regiment, 3rd ABCT, 3rd ID. service so after the game we talked The remaining soldiers then move and he pretty much convinced me camp. on to play for the Armed Forces to join the ROTC program. He is grateful for the opportunity Men’s Basketball Championship in “Originally, coming into the to continue to play basketball and Great Lakes, Ill., in November. Army I gave basketball up. I really be a commissioned officer. “Some soldiers are returning wanted to be a hard charger, work “It is a privilege to be commis- while this will be the first time for hard as I could and be proficient in sioned officer, come to work every others,” said Little. my job. day, plus do what I love to do while Wheeless started playing bas- Once I got here, I got that itch to I’m in the Army,” said Wheeless. ketball at the age of 13 with the get back out there and play,” said “I represent all the soldiers. It’s neighbors next door. He remem- Wheeless. just not me going out here to play bers watching them through the Wheeless knew about the All-Ar- basketball it’s me being a sports window, and one day he decided to my basketball team from playing on ambassador,” said Wheeless. go out and play. the Navy team. “I’m representing the Army, When he was younger he was into Being on the Fort Benning post brigade, battalion and company I music and performed as a percus- team he was able to reach out to came from.” sionist playing the snare drums. As the coach for the All-Army training

Page 21 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Fort Benning Doughboy Schedule

Sept. 8 1pm Faulkner University Squad @Faulkner University 58-46 W Sept. 14 1pm Macon State @Macon State 38-7 L Sept. 21 2pm North Georgia Sports Academy Doughboy Stadium 38-24 W Sept. 29 4pm Faulkner University JV Squad Doughboy Stadium 53-42 L Oct. 6 2pm Georgia Sports Prep Academy Doughboy Stadium 34-20 L Oct. 13 1pm Lagrange College JV Squad @Lagrange College 48-42 L Oct. 24 7pm Columbus State @ A.J. McClung Memorial Stadium

Page 22 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 Chattahoochee County Home 7:30pm 35-8 L Sept. 6 Thomasville Away 8:00pm 56-6 L Sept. 13 Pacelli Home 7:30pm 44-0 L Sept. 20 Randolph-VLay Away 8:00pm 52-6 L Sept. 26 Baconton Charter Away 7:30pm 34-6 L Oct. 4 BYE ------Oct. 11 Seminole County Away 7:30pm 38-0 L Oct. 19 Mitchell County Away 7:30pm 80-0 L Oct. 25 Miller County Home 7:30pm Oct. 31 Terrell County Home 7:30pm Nov. 8 Calhoun County Away 7:30pm

Sept. 4 Brookstone Home 5:00pm 28-0 L Sept. 11 Schley County Away 5:00pm Cancelled Sept. 18 Marion County Away 5:00pm 36-6 L Sept. 25 Macon County Home 5:00pm 36-6 L Oct. 2 Chatt. County Away 5:00pm 24-0 L Oct. 9 Central Home 5:00pm 28-0 L

Page 23 Richland, Georgia’s 16th Annual Fri. & Sat. The most fun Nov. 8 - 9 you can have 2013 in public.

Best little The Fun cook off in Starts Friday Georgia! at 5 p.m. Parking is FREE Admission is FREE

Visit http://www.cityofrichlandga.com/index.htm for more information

Page 24 FRSA Family readiness support assistants serve as a vital link between 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.

1-15 IN 203rd BSB Sgt. Michael Bailey 3rd Brigade Demeka Daniels (706) 544-3362 (w) 2-69 AR (706) 544-3216 (w) [email protected] [email protected] Janel Daniels (706) 544-3121 (w) [email protected]

3-3 BSTB 3-1 CAV Staff Sgt. Curtiss Foudray Sgt. 1st Class Tyler Mcmillan (706) 544-5923 (w) (706) 544-5788 (w) [email protected] [email protected] 1-10 FA Stacy Gray (706) 544-3913 (w) [email protected]

www.facebook.com/3hbct3id

Page 25 In Loving Memory of Spc Bobby Lee Woolf October 15, 1982 - October 1, 2013

Page 26