807Th MDSC/U.S. Army South Trains in Jungles of Belize the Pulse Online Edition Is a Bi- by Eric Lucero, Army South Public Affairs Two-Week, U.S

807th MDSC/U.S. Army South trains in jungles of Belize The Pulse Online Edition is a bi- By Eric Lucero, Army South Public Affairs two-week, U.S. Army South-sponsored Subject monthly publication for the BELMOPAN, Belize -- Deep in the jungle of Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) with the Be- Soldiers, Families, civilians and Belize, five U.S. Army Soldiers, accompa- lize Defense Force and the Belize Coast Guard medical professionals of the nied by soldiers from the Belize Defense Service. The exchange required the U.S. Sol- 807th MDSC. The November Force, moved through unfamiliar terrain with diers to step outside their comfort zones and 2011 edition is a special, dou- their casualty. The ability to move their casu- slither through the jungle and rivers of Belize, ble edition. alty more than 200 yards was strenuous due all while staying focused on properly executing to the climate and terrain. Time was a factor their skills. for their casualty, and they knew it. With the stability and security of the U.S. Sensing they were running out of time, and partner nations dependent upon our ability 807th MDSC Commander the medics chopped their way through thick to work together to detect, deter and disrupt Maj. Gen. L.P. Chang vegetation, rappelled down steep cliffs, common security challenges, conducting ex- crossed rapid rivers, and made their way changes with partner nations ensures the Command Sergeant Major through dark caves. Once they reached their Army’s regional partners are ready and able to Command Sgt. Maj. David G. Davis objective, the unusual happened. Their pa- meet potential threats. tient stood up, smiled and praised them on a During the two-week exchange, the Beliz- Chief of Staff job well done. eans trained the U.S. Soldiers in various ele- Col. Janet Shipko The Army medics were participating in a See Belize on page 7

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Col. Brent Campbell

Editor Maj. Matthew Lawrence

Public Affairs Staff Staff Sgt. Kristen King Spc. William Hatton

This online newsletter is an authorized publication for the members of the 807th MDSC. The content within does not necessarily reflect the offi- cial views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Department of Defense. The 807th newsletter is an unofficial publication authorized by Army Regulation 360-1. Editorial content is prepared, edited and pro- Sgt. Matthew Archilla of the 228th Combat Support Hospital in San Antonio works with members of the Belize Defense Force during a simulated high angle casualty evacuation near Belmopan, vided by the Public Affairs Office of Belize, Feb. 11. The U.S. Soldiers participated in a U.S. Army South-sponsored Subject Matter the 807th MDSC. All photos are Expert Exchange with the Belize Defense Force and the Belize Coast Guard Service near Bel- Department of Defense unless other- mopan, Belize, Feb. 6-17. During the two-week exchange, the Belizeans trained the Soldiers in wise credited. patient evacuation techniques in a jungle environment such as high angle evacuations using rappelling techniques, confined space evacuations in caves and swift water river evacuations. (photo by Mr. Eric Lucero, U.S. Army South Public Affairs) Volume 3, Issue 2 Page 2 Introducing the Structured Self-Development Program primarily at the team and squad levels. come a prerequisite for nominative and SSD focuses on the common leader and joint assignments. tactical skill sets. Private (PV1) through Even though Soldiers have three years Command Sergeant Major (CSM) have to complete SSD I, less than 15% are cur- the option to self enroll. rently on track to graduate before WLC. There is no SSD Level II. The Ad- Leaders at all levels must ensure our Sol- vanced Leaders Course Common Core diers are taking these modules and not (ALC-CC) is in lieu of SSD II. Enroll- trying to "cram" them all in before ALC. ments are Headquarters, Department of SSD is both an individual and first-line the Army (HQDA) select. The ALC-CC leader responsibility. focuses on preparing unit and subordinate One of the biggest complaints I hear elements for peace, wartime missions, and about SSD is a lack of computers at units, contingencies, and replaces the old Basic especially in the Army National Guard Noncommissioned Officer Course (ARNG) and the Army Reserve (AR). BNCOC). CSMs for the ARNG and AR are actively SSD III focuses on tasks at the platoon seeking a resolution to this problem. level and prepares Sergeants (SGT) I require your help to ensure that we through Sergeants First Class (SFC) for embrace this new learning tool. SSD will the Senior Leaders Course (SLC), previ- be the key link in the Army Career tracker Leaders, ously known as the Advanced Noncom- (ACT) and will improve Army readiness In this new era of technology, our missioned Officer Course (ANCOC). It by integrating self-development into a Soldiers gather and process information offers lessons on implementing measures lifelong learning (LLL) strategy. I charge differently today than they did even ten to reduce combat stress, developing a all leaders to give their Soldiers time years ago. With advancements in the web physical security plan, supervising the throughout the week to work on their SSD and the invention of collaborative sites NCO's professional development, super- courses. like Facebook and Twitter, the youth of vising ceremony setups, and applying today are able to glean information in- ethical leadership decisions at the small - Raymond F. Chandler III stantaneously via computer screens and unit level. Soldiers will be automatically Sergeant Major of the Army cell phones. Understanding the way our enrolled in SSD III after they have com- potential recruits learn is critical to our pleted all phases of ALC. Senior enlisted success as an Army. We cannot force our leaders, Master Sergeant through CSM, Soldiers to learn using outdated methods may self enroll. of content delivery. SSD IV focuses on tasks at the battal- Structured Self Development (SSD) is ion level and prepares Staff Sergeants planned; goal-oriented learning that rein- (SSG) through CSMs for attendance at forces and expands the depth and breadth the Sergeants Major Course (SMC). Sol- of an individual's knowledge base, self- diers may start SSD IV upon completing awareness, and situational awareness. It the Senior Leaders Course (SLC). The US compliments institutional and operational Army Sergeants Major Academy recom- learning. It enhances professional compe- mends completing SSD IV prior to as- tence and meets personal objectives. It is suming duties as a First Sergeant (1SG). required learning that continues through- Graduates of the SLC are automatically out a Soldier's career and is closely linked enrolled. Current graduates of SLC may to training and education in the NCO self-enroll. Education System (NCOES). It promotes Although the SMC is the capstone of lifelong learning (LLL). It also sets condi- the NCOES, learning does not stop. Sol- tions for continuous growth as a Warrior diers must complete SSD V after they and a Warrior Leader. All Soldiers are have completed the SMC. It focuses on required to participate in SSD. It will also nominative and joint staff level tasks and be a pre-requisite for attending NCOES prepares Soldiers for the strategic levels courses, and will affect future promotions. of Army leadership. It offers lessons on SSD I prepare Soldiers for the Warrior employing nation building operations and Leaders Course (WLC). Soldiers are auto- resolving conflicts between civilian em- matically enrolled upon completing Basic ployees and the military. MSGs through Combat Training (BCT)/One Station Unit CSM are automatically enrolled after they Training (OSUT). SSD I tasks are focused graduate from the SMC. SSD V will be- Page 3 The Pulse - Online Edition

807th medics train Malian Defense Forces

By Sgt. Mark Henderson, Utah National Guard Maj. Dean A. Nelson, 807th MOPTI, MALI — Soldiers of the 807th Medical Deployment Medical Deployment Sup- Support Command, Fort Douglas, Utah, are sharing their exper- port Command, Fort Doug- tise with their Malian medical defense forces counterparts dur- las, Utah, and Wendell, ing Atlas Accord 12 in Mopti, Mali, Feb. 7-15. Idaho native, explains the This annual-joint-aerial-delivery exercise, hosted by U.S. use of a battery powered Army Africa, brings together U.S. Army personnel with militar- cauterizer pen to Malian medical defense forces ies in Africa to enhance air drop capabilities and ensure effec- Col. Youssouf Traore, in tive delivery of military resupply materials and humanitarian Mopti, Mali, Feb. 7. The aid. 807th MDSC were in Mali Doctors and medics from both militaries are seizing this as medical support during unique opportunity to expand on training. Atlas Accord 12. (U.S. While here in Mali 807th medics were asked by Malian Army photo by Spc. Kim- Army Col. Youssouf Treore, commander of the medical detach- berly Trumbull) ment in Mopti to aid Malian medical personnel in the use of supplies they received from U.S. forces several years ago. Treore said the supplies are very practical, easy to use, and helpful to the Malian Medical Defense Forces. We are training with the Malian medical personnel on different types of equipment that include cervical braces, finger splints, ring cutters, pressure bandages, back boards and more, said Maj. Dean A. Nelson, a family physician and Wendell, Idaho native, assigned to the 328th CSH, 807th MDSC. These Malian soldiers and medical personnel have on-the-job training, so it is very rewarding to show them and see their excitement when we demonstrate the proper use of the equipment, said Sgt. La Tonia R. Luna, an 807th MDSC Army healthcare specialist and Fort Worth, Texas native. American medical personnel gained experience from working with the Malians. “I learned they do a lot with a little,” Baca said. “I don’t know how they handle trauma situations but, it’s impressive how they do it,” said Staff Sgt. Anthony P. Baca, an 807th MDSC Army healthcare specialist and McKinney, Texas native. Training will help our medics become better since they are teaching the Malians through interpreters and have to move slowly and ensure they are understood; it gives them a better understanding of the training they are providing, said Lt. Col. David H. Moikeha, an emergency physician, and Coppell, Texas native, assigned to the 94th Combat Support Hospital, 807th MDSC. Baca said he is impressed with both militaries’ willingness to learn. Luna agreed. “The Malians asked very good questions and were curious about the use of the equipment and now they know how to use it to help their patients, Luna said. Helping patients recover is important to the people, Treore U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Anthony P. Baca, a healthcare specialist said. assigned to the 807th Medical Deployment Support Command, “We receive so much trauma from highway accidents, mili- Fort Douglas, Utah, explains the use of trousers designed to help tary and civilian,” he said. “The equipment we have will help us prevent hypotension to Malian Medical Defense Forces in Mopti, care for the trauma patients we receive at our level.” Mali, Feb. 7. Baca, a McKinney, Texas, native was part of a Treore added he was grateful for the experience. “I appreci- medical team participating in Atlas Accord 12. (U.S. Army photo ate the cooperation with the U.S. Army,” he said. It [the train- by Spc. Kimberly Trumbull) ing] is very practical and it will help us face all of our needs.” Volume 3, Issue 2 Page 4

807th Soldier skis to success

Courtesy Story Although she had skied for over 25 involves both cross country skiing and HIGHLAND, Utah —1st. Lt. Barbara years, Blanke never trained for or partici- target shooting. The intense aerobic ex- Blanke of the 987th Blood Support De- pated in biathlons until she was older ertion of 7.5 kilometers of skiing makes tachment has been chosen to represent the than most of the competitors. the marksmanship difficult. Competitors United States Military as a member of the “When I saw it, I thought I had just must shoot twice—once standing and biathlon team in the International Military missed my calling in life. At that time, I once prone, and there is a “penalty loop” World Championships (CISM). was already 30, and I just didn’t want of several hundred meters for every target Blanke, 47, routinely competes for the anyone to experience it too late in their out of five that is missed. A great skier National Guard’s Biathlon Team (along life, so I got involved in coaching,” said can find themselves trailing the pack with with her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Blanke. a poor shooting performance. Blanke, a Utah National Guard Soldier) Every year, the Department of De- Blanke currently serves as a Clinical against Soldiers half her age from around fense selects the top athletes among all Laboratory Officer in the 987th Blood the world. branches of the service to represent the Support Detachment of the 172nd Multi- Although she has been competing for U.S. at this prestigious event. The top functional Medical Battalion based out of years, this is the first time she has been military athletes in the world, many who Ogden Utah, and also serves as a Hema- selected to compete at CISM, which is the are among the elite professional winter tology Supervisor at Timpanogos Re- premiere military biathlon event in the athletes in Europe, will gather in Slovenia gional Hospital in Orem, Utah. world. Her most recent competition was to compete against each other while rep- “There is no way I could do the things at the German Invitationals, where she resenting their respective countries. Over that I have been able to do without the won gold in the Female Guest Class divi- forty-five countries are expected to send support of my employer, my Army Re- sion (including all foreign skiers), and delegations to the 2012 CISM Champion- serve unit and my family,” said Blanke. only came in behind two German skiers. ships, which will Blanke was selected for the 2012 U.S. likely include some CISM Team as the top female military of the top biathletes biathlete in the United States during the in the world. 2011-2012 season. Her accomplishments Blanke insists this season include a Gold Medal at the that whenever she IDSM Military Championships in Regen, competes, all she Germany, a Bronze Medal at the South really tries to do is American Cup in Portillo, Chile, as well as compete against a third place finish at the North American herself, have fun, Cup (NORAM) Race Series Number Two and help other ath- in West Yellowstone, Montana. Blanke letes whenever she also won both races convincingly at the can. National Guard Western Regional Biath- “Most of the lon Championships at Soldier Hollow in time I don't even Midway, Utah, in early January of this know where the year. other competitors All of these results come in spite of are in a race, so my Blanke falling firmly into the “Masters” strategy is to ski my category, at forty-seven years of age, yet own pace, focus on competing against athletes of all ages for the things that I can medals, prize money, and in some cases, a do well, and let the spot on their respective countries' National results take care of Team. themselves,” said “Whenever I enter these 'open-class' Blanke when asked races, I often wonder if I even belong in how she handles the the field...” said Blanke after being asked pressure of interna- about a 'forty-something' racing against an tional competition. often much-younger crowd. The biathlon

1st Lt. Barbara Blanke of the 987th Blood Support Detachment fires her rifle during a biathlon at the South American Cup in Portillo, Chile, in 2011. Blanke, 47, has won numerous national and international awards as a member of the National Guard biathlon team. (photo courtesy of 1st Lt. Blanke) Page 5 The Pulse - Online Edition

Belize handle different situations,” said Spc. partner countries like the U.S. It Marco Borrego, a health care specialist is very important to keep this Continued from page 1 assigned to Army South’s Headquarters relationship because we comple- ments of high-difficulty casualty evacua- and Headquarters Battalion. “We can ment each other. We hope this relationship tions. Whether it was rappelling down learn from them just as much as they can can continue and grow.” sheer cliffs, using ropes to cross swift learn from us.” In addition to the formal training, both rivers, or crawling into confined spaces After successfully making their way groups spent some time enjoying the intri- during cave rescues, the scenarios and through the jungle, the U.S. Soldiers re- cacies of the jungle during a 24-hour jun- terrain provided by the Belizean soldiers ciprocated the training by providing the gle immersion exercise. offered their U.S. counterparts an unparal- Belizeans with medical care classes de- “It was awesome living off the jungle,” leled training opportunity. signed to improve the host nation’s ability said Chappell. “You just had to go into the “The most important part of an oppor- to effectively treat casualties in hostile jungle, chop your way in and build a hut tunity like this is it gets the Soldiers out in situations. and live in that with absolutely nothing an environment that they would otherwise “We taught them trauma casualty except some bread and water. We even ate not have,” said Maj. Al Brown, U.S. care, a step above the combat lifesaver termites.” Army South G-3 operations officer. course,” said Sgt. 1st Class Efrem Dico- While the U.S. medics and their Beliz- “Back home, the conditions are not quite chea, a medical operations non- ean counterparts parted ways, the experi- as challenging as you have here in the commissioned officer assigned to Army ence and training each group received will jungle. To get this deep into a jungle envi- South. “This will assist the Belizeans in prove to be crucial toward building partner ronment and train is pretty hard to do.” developing the skills needed to be able to nation capacity and improving abilities to Being able to treat a wound in a brick treat and evacuate casualties in a combat successfully work side-by-side on any fu- building with sound security and a work- environment. It’s important because it ture operations or exercises. ing air conditioner may seem ideal, but gives the host nation confidence in their “If I’m out there working on a rescue being able to overcome exhaustion, swel- medics so they can operate in an austere and there is a Belizean soldier working tering heat and unfavorable terrain can environment away from definitive care.” alongside me, we both know the same in- quickly turn the situation from ideal to Since the Belizean soldiers participat- formation,” said Archilla. “We’re both deadly if unprepared. ing already had basic medical skills, the tying the same knots; we’re doing the same “As medics, we may find ourselves in U.S. medics provided medical training to battlefield tactical combat casualty care. It a jungle or cave environment and it’s our the host nation soldiers in how to treat just allows for continuity and better cohe- duty to be able to go in there and extract casualties under fire. sion.” that patient safely,” said Sgt. Eric Chap- “The majority of the rescuers pell, a medic assigned to the 228th Com- and military here already have the bat Support Hospital in San Antonio. rescue side down,” said Cpl. “Any U.S. Soldier that comes through this Wendy Garcia, a combat medic program will be able to take this training with the Belize Defense Force. back with them and use it effectively. “The medical training is what we There’s no question in my mind that this really needed to help us expand course has been tough.” more on our medical knowledge. Sgt. Matthew Archilla, a medic as- An exchange like this really helps signed to the 228th Combat Support Hos- us stay up-to-date on real-world pital, believes the training he received in changes in the medical world.” Belize has the ability to pay immediate “This is very important for us,” dividends. said Capt. Elfryn Reyes, the force “A lot of the rappel training they gave medical officer for the Belize De- us is really relevant,” said Archilla. “Our fense Force. “We are always very current situation in Afghanistan has us happy when we get support from operating in a lot of mountainous terrain. Allowing a medic to get in there and learn U.S. Soldiers from U.S. Army how to package a patient in that type of South and the 228th Combat Sup- terrain is extremely beneficial.” port Hospital practice medical transportation and rescue in the While the Belize Defense Force is a jungles near Belmopan, Belize, in relatively small military, only consisting Feb. 6-17. High angle evacua- of approximately 1,000 troops, the experi- tions, confined space evacuations, ence its service members have operating and swift water evacuations were in a jungle environment makes their train- some of the important skills the ing invaluable to partner nations seeking forces trained together on. (photo to improve their own capabilities. by Mr. Eric Lucero,, U.S. Army “It’s good to see how other armies South Public Affairs) Volume 3, Issue 2 Page 6

First GE partnership class graduates By Maj. Matt Lawrence ing, “the different exposure to differ- MILWAUKEE—On March 15th, the first ent manufacturers, how to manage and seven students in the General Electric execute contracts, and manage cus- Externship program graduated at a cere- tomers. All of those skill sets can mony at GE Healthcare’s Training Head- parlay back over and we can take best quarters. business practices from this training Staff Sgt. Adam Malzewski, Sgt. back to our home units.” Zachary Larue, Sgt. Rebecca Vega, Sgt. Of the seven, six were offered full Christopher Deschenes, Spc. Juan time employment with GE Healthcare, Morales, Spc. Brian Stack, and Spc. and three have accepted the offers so Wayne Reger were honored for complet- far. Future iterations of the GE part- ing the program, which provides the nership will not be restricted to mem- Army with fully duty-MOS qualified Sol- bers of the 807th MDSC. diers in the biomedical repair specialist GE employs over 14,000 veterans (68A) MOS, and provides GE with a new worldwide and has been named one of talent pool on which to draw. the best companies for veterans sev- “At first it seemed like a rumor,” said eral years in a row. Vega, who reenlisted to be a part of the program. “It seemed like an amazing Staff Sgt. Adam Malzewski connects opportunity—too good to be true.” the display of an MRI machine at a While many Soldiers in the 68A field hospital in Kenosha in January, 2012. do the same job on the civilian side, there Malzewski was one of seven gradu- are benefits for Soldiers and the Army ates from the initial class of the Reserve by partnering with GE. GE/807th MDSC partnership. (photo Malzewski outlined the benefits say- by Maj. Matt Lawrence)

807th Commander wins MacArthur Award

By Maj. Matt Lawrence Award in 2011, and was selected to SALT LAKE CITY—Capt. Patrick attend the highly coveted AMEDD Naughton, HHC 807th MDSC Com- Junior Officer Week. mander, has been selected for the Naughton also received the Center Douglas MacArthur Award for Lead- for the Army Profession and Ethics ership Excellence. award in 2011 for his work proposing Naughton assumed command of a new leadership and mentoring pro- HHC in April 2011, after completing gram for the Army. He also was an a deployment in the logistics section American Red Cross Partnership of Task Force 807th, which was re- Award Winner for his sexual assault sponsible for medical operations prevention efforts. throughout Iraq. In the short time Naughton has Naughton has a long list of accom- been HHC commander, he has been plishments that made him a natural able to increase drill participation by choice for the award. He was part of ensuring robust training. He also es- the medical logistics team responsible tablished the HHC’s Officer Profes- for developing a medical asset redis- sional Development, Non- tribution program for Iraq, that trans- Commissioned Officer Professional ferred millions of dollars of equip- Development, and the Junior Enlisted ment from closing hospitals to those Professional Development programs, who needed it. TF 807th was in addition to the HHC’s Family awarded the Surgeon General’s Ex- Readiness program. calubur Award for this program. Naughton will receive the award in Capt. Patrick Naughton at the 807th Naughton was a nominee for the a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on MDSC headquarters at Fort Douglas, AMEDD Junior Officer of the Year May 25. Utah. (Army Reserve photo) Page 7 The Pulse - Online Edition

G8 awarded for efficiency program By Maj. Matt Lawrence manage their own travel budgets, SALT LAKE CITY—Col. Marc van DTS implementation gives the Oene has been selected as a winner of 807th’s subordinate commanders the 2011 Resource Management Indi- flexibility. vidual Award for Cost Savings Initia- Commanders, when presented with tives by the Department of the Army. an unexpected travel requirement no The project that earned the award longer have to say, “’okay, let’s go was the implementation of the De- beg someone for money.’ Now they fense Travel System (DTS) in the have a pot of money they can draw 807th MDSC, which was estimated to from,” said van Oene. have saved the Army about $300,000 And though DTS can be frustrat- over fiscal year 2011. ing at times, travelers can enjoy some The 807th is one of only three perks by using the system. commands in the Army Reserve to “What I like about DTS, is that it fully mandate the use of DTS so far. gives the person inputting the authori- The savings are realized in the ac- zation a chance to have some choices counting work that was formerly re- [with flights or carriers],” said van quired to have taken place at the De- Oene. partment of Financial Management Travelers can now manage flight and Services (DFAS) when manual times better and benefit easier from vouchers were submitted. frequent flyer programs if they travel Col. Marc van Oene (Army Reserve Photo) “What we did was to give our frequently. commands more control over travel Advantages from DTS implemen- done this without the hard work of dollars, more oversight, and a better tation exist for the 807th itself, includ- his staff, who worked hard to train feel for where their Soldiers [and ing making the command’s travel re- subordinate units and fix the hundreds money] are going,” said van Oene. cords “audit ready.” of problems that inevitably popped up By allowing the commands to Van Oene said he couldn’t have during the implementation.

807th MDSC photo wins best of the year for U.S. Army WASHIGTON, D.C. — Sgt. 1st Class Adam Stone has won first place in the Army’s Keith L. Ware Awards for an individual photograph for calendar year 2011. This photo, which he took while in South Africa with the 949th Vet- erinary Detachment, only placed second in the Army Reserve’s Brum- feld Awards competition in January, but had excellent composition and a perfect fade to the background. This photo competed against over 100 other entries in the Army Re- serve competition, and over 100 entries, all winners from their commands, in the Army-wide competition. Stone and his photo will now compete for the Department of De- fense’s coveted Thomas Jefferson Award, to be held in April. Stone left the 807th MDSC in February for promotion to Sgt. 1st Class, and is currently at Fort Dix, N.J., preparing for deployment to Afghanistan with the 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command from Coraopolis, Pa.

On the right, Dr. Tim Hill, a South African Veterinarian Volunteer, helps U.S. Army Capt. Katerynn Lobus-Gosciniak of the 949th Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services), US Army Reserve. with a difficult spay operation while South African National Defense Force Navy Warrant Officer Cpoerik Mostert helps by holding intravenous fluids. Volume 3, Issue 2 Page 8

Media Engagement—Follow the rules

By Maj. Matt Lawrence understand your limits. It’s understand- diers will have will likely continue to fall On March 14, an article appeared through ing where the line is drawn that can be under the category of “low risk engage- Time Magazine’s online portal discussing difficult. ments” such as unit farewell ceremonies, the case of Staff Sgt. Robert Bales, who Soldiers are encouraged to engage the there are many that can cause damage to allegedly murdered 16 Afghans in two media and to give interviews to reporters the image of the Army Reserve. In those villages. to expand the public knowledge about the situations, the PAO must get involved to Comments in this article appeared military and give exposure to the Army protect both you and the Army Reserve. from an unnamed Army Reserve psychia- Reserve. However, comments should be Keep us in mind: trist that speculated that Bales’s suffering limited to that Soldier’s personal experi- from Traumatic Brain Injury could have ence. Examples would be: “what did you Lt. Col. Brent Campbell— been the catalyst for him to snap and and your family do to prepare for this [email protected] commit these acts. Other quotes in the deployment?” or “How were you able to article attributed to unnamed Army Offi- save the lives of Soldiers who were multi- cers discuss how Soldiers could get off ple amputees due to blast wounds?” Maj. Matt Lawrence— base without being stopped by security Questions about specific patients [email protected]. forces manning the checkpoints. should obviously be avoided, due to (801)656-3667 (office) The article created a stir in the Army HIPPA restrictions. (801)793-7031 (cell) Reserve and the medical community and Questions about Army policy or ques- a strong warning from Maj. Gen. Miller, tioning policies or decisions should be Media Do’s and Deputy Commanding General for U.S. deflected to the appropriate authority. If a Army Reserve Command, stating that all doctor is asked, “What can the Army do Don’ts Soldiers must seek approval prior to en- to better treat PTSD victims?” the answer gaging with the media. should be for the reporter to contact the Do: This is not the first time one of our Office of the Surgeon General. medical providers has spoken out of line And finally, each interview has a  Contact the PAO & SJA to the press. The greatest confusion exists theme that should be adhered to. If a re- with our medical professionals, who have porter wants to conduct an interview on before any interview the education and professional experience your experiences but asks, “Do you think that would qualify someone as a subject we should continue the war in Afghani-  Observe OPSEC matter expert in medical matters, as was stan?” the response should be similar to, the case here. “I thought we were here to discuss my  Answer questions re- While our medical professionals may personal experiences. I can’t comment on garding your personal have the professional expertise to answer a topic of national importance.” questions for the Army Reserve, they The worst thing you can do is specu- experiences must remember they do not have the posi- late, which was part of the problem with tion that gives them that authority. the Time interview. The psychiatrist in-  Remember you repre- A proper analogy would be a car me- terviewed had never evaluated or treated chanic for a Ford dealer in Peoria, Ill., Bales. His opinion was pure speculation sent the Army Reserve who knows the Ford Focus well, includ- on why he allegedly committed these acts ing its advantages and problems, giving and nothing more. Do not speculate— Don’t: an interview to the press on what the Ford there is no shame in saying, “I don’t Motor Company should do to improve the know” if you really don’t.  Speculate on something car, or why a certain malfunction has hap- Overall, here’s the problem—some pened in several cars. The mechanic does people like the attention, and can get car- you don’t know not have the authority in the company to ried away with the notion that a reporter give that opinion, regardless of how well talking to you is validation of your exper-  Violate HIPPA they know that vehicle. tise. This is not the case. In many in- Soldiers must also be careful what stances, reporters will come to Public  Ever think that anything they comment on with the media. OP- Affairs Offices and be dissatisfied with is really “off the record” SEC must be observed whenever giving our answers (i.e. please call the Surgeon an interview. Violations of OPSEC with General’s office), or bypass us com-  Decline to comment if the media can lead to disciplinary action pletely. They are coming to you merely for the offending Soldier. because you wear a uniform and may you feel uncomfortable I am the first to admit, properly han- have the skill set they are looking for. dling the media is not difficult—if you While most media interaction our Sol-  Be rude or offensive Page 9 The Pulse - Online Edition

Tax Time is Near!

By Maj. Matt Lawrence mon. For instance, many states allow residents mobilized out- It’s tax time again, and if you haven’t filed yet, you need to get side of the state borders to earn their income tax free. your act together. Taxes are due on April 17th for the tax year 4)Be sure to calculate your deployment time correctly — of 2011, due to the 15th being on a weekend, and the observance For most Soldiers, all income earned while on deployment to a of Emancipation Day in the District of Columbia on April 16th hostile fire zone is non-taxable. Be sure to calculate this cor- this year. It’s one of the few quirks about our nation’s capitol rectly—your W2 should reflect your overseas pay correctly, so that benefits all of us. double check it before you file. If you haven’t done that return yet, here are some tips to help 5)Get professional help if you need it — If you have sim- speed the processing of your return and to avoid the dreaded ple income and use the 1040EZ form, don’t bother going to a tax audit: preparation service to do your taxes. They will charge you a 1)Use the IRS’s e-file system—The system is easy to use, couple hundred dollars for what is essentially 15 minutes of free to use, and will process your refund (if you are due one) work. However, if you own your own business, have made doz- within just a few days. In comparison, a paper tax return may ens of stock trades throughout the year, or have a significant take six to eight weeks to process. The system allows you to event such as a divorce that complicates your taxes, then seek store your information on the IRS’s servers, and you have a professional help. Getting things wrong increases your chances unique password to access your information—don’t forget this of an audit, especially with home businesses. password. The e-file system will also do all of the math for you. The nation’s tax law is difficult to know well. State systems If any forms are incomplete or missing, the IRS will contact you are commonly more simple, with via e-mail within 72 hours. Other computer programs such as less deductions and rules overall. TurboTax also do a fine job, but are often available only if they But taking the time to understand are purchased. your taxes is a worthwhile pur- 2)Be sure to list all of your income—The IRS receives suit to understanding why you electronic versions of your required tax forms and checks to see are eligible for deductions or not, if you have accounted for all of them. The surest way to trigger and also will help you in prepar- an audit is to think that you can hide some of this income. Peo- ing for next year. While there ple who make less than $250,000 are far less likely to be audited are inevitable changes from year than those making more, but mistakes and deceit increase your to year, the overall system re- odds significantly. mains fundamentally the same 3)Be sure to take all your deductions— Many of the com- from year to year. mon deductions include interest on your mortgage, charitable Good luck! donations, and property taxes, but some others are not so com- Meet the new Command Chaplain—Ch. (Col.) Bonnie Koppel Friends- It is a humbling privilege to religious support for Passover and Ha- (www.templechai.com), a Reform Jew- introduce myself as the Command nukkah in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghani- ish congregation of 850 families in Chaplain of the 807th MDSC. I come stan. Phoenix. I have been married to my to you from 3 ½ years of service as the In addition to these deployments, beloved husband, for 26 years, and we 63rd Regional Support Command another amazing career highlight was are the parents of two daughters. (RSC) Command Chaplain, and I have offering the prayer at a gathering with In addition to the above, I have ac- a confession to make- Ch. (Col.) Bryce President George W. Bush, and then cepted the challenge of studying as a Holbrook was always our FAVORITE attending the White House Hanukkah Department of Distance Education stu- O&F/T Command Chaplain to work Ball in 2007. (I have some photos of dent at the US Army War College, an with, so I am all too aware of the big that event posted at my website, experience I am finding immensely shoes I am stepping into! www.azrabbi.com.) challenging and rewarding. Fortunately I have the outstanding I was the first Command Chaplain My philosophy of leadership is rela- support of Ch. (Lt. Col.) Robert Brady of the 63rd RSC, and am immensely tively simple- find 99 reasons to say yes and Master Sgt. Steven Ferguson to proud of having been part of that team rather than 1 reason to say no. I under- lean on. becoming fully operational. As an RSC stand that we are here to support Sol- I began my career as a chaplain can- Chaplain, Strong Bonds has been a diers and Families and I am fully com- didate in 1978, and was the first female huge focal point. I believe in the train- mitted to that vision. Rabbi ever to serve in the U.S. mili- ing and cannot encourage you strongly I am very thrilled to be part of the tary. I spent many years as a Corps enough to participate in a Strong Bonds 807th and hope that you will never hesi- Support Group Chaplain, and have had retreat. (www.strongbonds.com). tate to be in touch with me or one of our the awesome opportunity to deploy In my civilian life, I am one of three staff. Thank you so much for this downrange 5 times to provide Jewish rabbis on the staff of Temple Chai amazing opportunity! Volume 3, Issue 2 Page 10

FAMILY PROGRAMS/YELLOW RIBBON INFORMATION PAGE

FAMILY PROGRAMS FAMILY READINESS SUPPORT ASSISTANTS Ms. Kathryn Stetson Family Programs Yellow Ribbon Mr. Elvis Kayakone Director Family Readiness Contractor 807th MDSC 2nd MED BDE Bldg 106 Soldiers Circle Office: 816-836-0005 x2181

E: [email protected] FT Douglas, UT 84113-5007 Office: 801-656-4195 BB: 801-520-1369 Mr. Ricque' Robinson E: [email protected] Family Readiness Support Asst. 139th MED BDE CPT Myong Yi 11101 Independence Avenue Yellow Ribbon/Family Programs Independence, MO. 64054 Assistant Director Office: 800-968-9529 x2104 807th MDSC E: [email protected] Bldg 106 Soldiers Circle FT Douglas, UT 84113-5007 Mr. Mark Massaglia Office: 801-656-4026 Family Readiness Support Assistant BB: 801-369-4556 307th MED BDE E: [email protected] Office: 614-692-5424 Ext. 136 E: [email protected] SPC Thomas Payne

Yellow Ribbon Soldier Support & A/V 807th MDSC Mrs. A.J. Bell 701 W. Simonds Road Family Readiness Support Assistant Seagoville, TX 75159 330th MED BDE Office: 972-287-0396 330th Medical Brigade Cell: 214-490-6537 847.266.3269 office E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Mrs. Raina Hall Dianna Hudson Yellow Ribbon Admin Assistant Family Readiness Support Assistant 807th MDSC 176th MED BDE/807th OCP/MCP Bldg 106 Soldiers Circle 701 W. Simonds Road FT Douglas, UT 84113-5007 Seagoville, TX 75159 801.656.4045 Office: 800-428-2378 ext 0369 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]