ESC Today - December 2013

Vol. 7, Issue 9

143D SUSTAINMENT COMMAND (EXPEDITIONARY)

December 2013

ESC TODAY

Harboring Savings

December 2013 er 2013

RY)

Decemb

ITIONA

D (EXPED

MMAN

ENT CO

DAY O T C S E e9

Vol. 7, Issu

NM D SUSTAI

143

Harb

g o ri n ings v a S

<< On the Front Cover

Landing Craft Utility 2018, Five Forks, lays moored Oct. 21 at Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait. In addition to transferring equipment from the Five Forks to its newer vessel, the Corinth, the crew spent several days preparing and installing equipment already within the local fleet, thus avoiding approximately $50,000 in additional costs without reducing mission capability.

8

ESC today Commander 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Col. Christopher P. Govekar Command Executive Officer 143d ESC Mr. Fred Guzman Command Sergeant Major 143d ESC Command Sgt. Maj. Ferdinand Collazo, Jr. Public Affairs Officer/Editor 143d ESC Maj. John Adams

Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman, 143d ESC STAFF:

Inside This Issue >> Messages from the top..........................................................3 143d ESC holiday safety message........................................5 The last full measure.............................................................6 The legal assistance mission in Kuwait.................................7 Harboring savings..................................................................8 Faith, family, duty...................................................................10 Army Reserve helps close OEF gateway.............................11 Forging desert leaders.........................................................13 Around the ESC...................................................................16 A past together, a world apart...............................................21

1st Lt. Nicole Rossman 143d ESC Public Affairs Executive Officer Staff Sgt. Ian B. Shay 143d ESC Public Affairs NCOIC Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV “ESC Today” Layout & Graphic Designer Spc. Aaron Ellerman 143d ESC Public Affairs Specialist CONTRIBUTORS: Maj. Sandra L. Gosciniak 143d ESC SHARP Officer Capt. Thomas Feiter Special Victim Counsel & Legal Assistance Attorney Army Support Group-Kuwait/143d ESC Capt. Julius S. Myers Army Central Chaplain (Capt.) Robert G. Rayburn II Chaplain, 1st Theater Sustainment Cmd Master Sgt. Daniel Lopez 143d ESC Safety NCOIC Staff Sgt. Peter Ross 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

ESC Today is the monthly command information magazine of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense, according to provisions in Army Regulation 360-1. The opinions and views expressed in ESC Today are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Defense Department, Department of the Army or the headquarters, 143d ESC. The editorial content 2

of this publication is the responsibility of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) public affairs officer. This publication is written, edited and published by the public affairs office of the 143d ESC, 9500 Armed Forces Reserve Dr., Orlando, Fla. 32827.

Submit comments to: patrick.s.compton.mil@ mail.mil or call 800-221-9401 ext. 1132. Send editorial and photographic submissions to: patrick.s.compton.mil@mail.mil.

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • www.flickr.com/143dESC

Staff Sgt. Rauel Tirado 204th Public Affairs Detachment Sgt. Duncan Brennan 101st Combat Aviation Brigade Sgt. Dianne M. Carter U.S. Army Anna Dieuveuil Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida

The Command Post

Photo courtesy of Sgt. David George

1st TSC

Soldiers from the 1st Theater Sustainment Command share a Thanksgiving meal Nov. 28 at New Kabul Compound in Kabul, Afghanistan.

G

Col. Christopher P. Govekar Commander 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

eating and relaxing. Watch your waistline and maintain your physical fitness regularly. Trust

reetings from Kuwait! The holidays

celebrations of faith. Be proud of the sacrifices

me, it’s much easier to maintain a good work-

are a time for families and friends

you’ve made that allow all Americans to enjoy

out plan than to start from scratch. My best to

to gather, relax, and reconnect. I

this time of year. Many of us have been deployed

you and your family. Enjoy the holidays, and I

encourage all 143d Sustainment Command

or away from home during the holidays. Keep

look forward to seeing across the battle space,

(Expeditionary) personnel to enjoy well-

an eye out for each other, and remember we are

whether at home or abroad.

deserved time with your family and friends over

brothers and sisters in arms; constant attention

Sustaining Victory!

the holidays. Be proud of your accomplishments

to our mission and each other is vital to the

Army Strong!

and know you and your families have earned

success of the 143d ESC.

the gratitude of the nation. As you reflect on

Leaders must ensure their Soldiers and

the blessings of the past year, remember our

families are cared for during the holiday

comrades-in-arms deployed across the globe.

season. Conduct your holiday parties safely

Keep them in your thoughts and reach out to

and make sure families have a significant

them if possible. I know they will appreciate

part in all events. Allow for time off without

your efforts. Our Army is the strength of the

sacrificing the mission and ensure our Soldiers

nation and our people are the strength of our

have good contact information if they find

Army. I thank each of you for your dedication

the need to reach out for help. I encourage all

and service, and ensure you travel safely as you

of you to share as much as you can with those

visit with family and friends.

less fortunate among our ranks. Enjoying

As we enter the month of December take

yourselves and sharing with others during the

the time to remember those among our ranks

holidays is the right thing to do. Overall, remain

currently serving overseas. As American

vigilant and have a great experience during

Soldiers we fight for the freedom to celebrate

this special time of the year. Lastly, I want to

Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other

remind you that with any holiday season comes

DID YOU KNOW?

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Col. Kevin Sullivan, the G3 officer in charge for the 143d ESC, serves Thanksgiving turkey to the troops Nov. 28 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.

CORRECTIONS FROM NOVEMBER

The editors of the “ESC Today” consistently conduct quality control measures to ensure our magazine is published on time and free from error. Occasionally mistakes will slip through our team’s diligent reviews, and we are grateful when our readers identify them so we may make the appropriate corrections. In the November 2013 issue, the photo credit in the “Keeping the Faith” article should belong to Master Sgt. Christine Wilkens, not Master Sgt. Christine Wilson. In addition the caption for the same photo should have listed Chaplain Hank McCaskill as a Major rather than a Captain. We apologize for these errors and appreciate our readers helping us accurately tell the Army Story. www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

3

THE BOTTOM LINE

H

ow often do you ask your supervisors

things they do. It is also a good way to accumulate

or peers how you are doing as it relates

information that can be used for promotions and

to your job? Every Soldier needs

awards. Having historical data also allows leaders

to know how they are doing. As NCOs we are

to transcribe their Soldiers’ accomplishments

responsible for the development of our Soldiers.

when preparing recommendations for awards.

We have the innate and sometimes difficult task

This leads to a well written recommendation that

of ensuring that our Soldiers are well rounded and

takes much of the guess work out of the equation.

properly trained.

Counseling Soldiers about promotions and

One of our strongest but often overlooked tools

performance is important in that, if Soldiers do not

is counseling. Many Soldiers think they are only

know what is required to ascend to the next level,

counseled when something has gone wrong.

they will have difficulty attaining the next grade

Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact

or correcting any deficiencies they might have.

the more you counsel, the more your Soldiers will

Keep track of your Soldiers’ progress with online

learn and develop into better leaders.

courses such as the Structured Self Development

The Army has several types of counseling. Let’s address the three most important:

(SSD) program and give them the tools they need to succeed in the Warrior Leadership Course,

Command Sgt. Maj. Ferdinand Collazo, Jr. Command Sergeant Major 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

1. event oriented

Advanced Leaders Course or similar schools that

appropriate NCOES course. Soldiers also need to

2. performance/ professional growth

mold and mentor our NCO Corps.

know what they are doing well and where they

When Soldiers are not counseled, leaders

need to improve be it Military bearing, APFT or,

Event-oriented counseling involves a specific

cannot simply say that they are not ready for

education. Simply telling a Soldier they are not

event or situation. Many leaders use this type of

promotion when they become eligible. Relying

ready is unacceptable and will not prevent a Soldier

counseling when it is adverse in nature, but this is

on rote memory for any type of counseling is not

from competing if they address it to their chain of

not always the case. When a Soldier does something

only unacceptable behavior of any NCO but also

command. NCOs should never put themselves in

that is noteworthy, leaders should take the time to

detrimental to the development of our future

this type of situation.

document and discuss it with that Soldier. Giving

leaders.

3. promotion counseling.

Soldiers positive feedback through event oriented counseling lets the Soldier

Counseling should be taking place to tell Soldiers what is expected and what is required

know that you are also

Your Soldiers are the legacy of the contribution

looking

you make to the Army. What type of legacy do want to leave behind?

for example, completing Soldier Self Development

courses

and

the

at the good

Photo Sgt. Duncan Brennan

4

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

101st Combat Aviation Brigade

FLOOD DAMAGE

S

Sound your alarms. Test your smoke alarms and be sure that the batteries have been replaced.

A

Always turn off holiday lights when you leave.

F

Fires are preventable; no electric heaters coffee makers, microwaves etc .allowed in living quarters.

E

Electrical lights need to be checked for fraying and absolutely NO DAISY CHAINS.

T

Trees need to be secured and away from traffic paths.

Y

You can always make a difference, don’t turn away . . . Be a LEADER and make on the spot corrections.

 Use caution when driving or walking, especially on the edge or side of roads. Recent rain and flood damage have made certain hazards invisible and can give way at any moment.  Dispose old, wet and moldy carpets in the dumpster.

.

 Report all mold issues to your housing (LSA) Safety and Environmental Officer.

Inspect your AO monthly

Accidents Don't Take Holidays According to reports from the United States Fire Administration, incidence of fires caused by cooking, heating and open flame all increase during the winter holiday period. Additionally about 5,800 individuals are treated annually in hospital emergency rooms for injuries sustained from trips and falls.

What is RESILIENCE?: An ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change. http://csf2.army.mil/about.html

1

The last full measure

A

s we near the holiday season, I

There is real heroism in the loss and separation

would like to reflect with you on

we experience, the longing for hearth and home,

the price of freedom. A few days

and the missed holidays away from our families.

ago, our nation celebrated the 150th anniversary

Remember that love is measured by sacrifice.

of

address

Real love is shown by how much we give up for

commemorating the fallen after the battle of

President

Abraham

Lincoln’s

the sake of those we love. The price of freedom is

Gettysburg. Lincoln spoke simply of the “last

often demonstrated by great acts of valor; yet the

full measure of devotion” lain by so many on

daily sacrifice, constant longing and separation

the altar of freedom. Our brothers and sisters in

from our loved ones are also part of this great

arms continue to make this same sacrifice today.

price. As we head into the holidays, remember

But this is not the whole price of freedom. Those

the difficulty of being apart from those we love is

of us who remain and our families at home also

what we offer up on behalf of our country. Enjoy

offer up our lives on that altar. We experience

every moment you can, knowing that you are

the breadth of commitment and realize how

covering yourself, your family and your country

much our love for country and for freedom has

with honor. Your children and your children’s

for many. We know God’s love is great because

taken from us. Perhaps we have not yet offered

children will stand on this sacrifice.

of His sacrifice and the separation He endured.

Chaplain (Capt.) Robert G. Rayburn II Chaplain 1st Theater Sustainment Command

the last full measure, but in a real way we and our

Let me share with you an example from this

At Christmas we remember the love of God

families are offering a part of that sacrifice. We

holiday season to help you think about the place

showered upon His people. And so, as we begin

miss anniversaries, our children’s birthdays and

of sacrifice in your life, faith, hope and love.

the holiday season, perhaps apart from those we

graduations, and we find it difficult to support

The idea of sacrifice and separation is central to

love, remember that great sacrifice is a measure

those we love; we realize that this sacrifice is a

the Christian understanding of Christmas. We

of great love. It is an honor to serve with you.

part of what America’s sons and daughters have

celebrate that love at Christmas. Jesus came to

given to preserve our way of life.

earth, born a baby, that he might give His life

Originally presented to Colonel Alexander Bliss for a Soldiers’ fundraiser during the Civil War, this handwritten copy of the Gettysburg Address, one of America’s most revered speeches, is the only one signed and dated by President Abraham Lincoln.

The paper is currently displayed at the White House.

6

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

I wish you all Happy Holidays, a Blessed Hanukkah and a Merry Christmas!

The Legal Corner

T

he Judge Advocate General’s (JAG)

advice on the applicability of this law is a big

Corps provides legal assistance attorneys

part of what the attorneys in legal assistance do.

to help Soldiers with various personal

For example, the SCRA offers protections to

legal affairs. The judge advocates (or JAs) who work

Soldiers whose spouses may try to initiate divorce

in legal assistance represent the individual Soldier,

proceedings during deployment or attempt to

who is entitled to the attorney-client privilege. As

relocate children during a deployment. Another

a result, Soldiers can feel assured that any personal

example would be protection when a landlord does

legal problem they discuss with the legal assistance

not return a security deposit to a deployed Soldier

office personnel will remain confidential.

who properly terminated his or her lease early due

Some

of

the

services

provided

include

to the deployment.

Capt. Thomas Feiter Special Victim Counsel & Legal Assistance Attorney Area Support Group-Kuwait/ 143d ESC

confidential legal counseling, help drafting legal

Frequently, legal assistance attorneys will also

correspondence, tax preparation, will drafting,

help Soldiers with family law issues that arise

notarizations,

security

during service on active duty such as divorce

necessary. A common family law problem during

clearance issues and help drafting rebuttals to

counseling, child support, family support, legal

deployment is family, spousal and child support.

Financial Liability Investigations of Property Loss

guardianships and child custody and residence

The rules are different depending on the Soldier’s

investigations, General Officer Memorandums of

issues. While judge advocates cannot represent

particular situation. More often than not, there is

Reprimand and Letters of Reprimand.

Soldiers in any civilian court proceeding, they can

no court order or agreement for support. Therefore,

The Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA)

provide general guidance (that private attorneys

the best course of action is to set an appointment to

is federal law that provides certain protections

usually charge for) and help refer the Soldier to

meet with a legal assistance attorney to see if you

to Soldiers while on active duty. Providing legal

a competent civilian attorney to help further if

are in compliance.

powers

of

attorney,

Divorce is a difficult issue for anyone to have to deal with during a deployment. The legal assistance office is here to provide legal advice and counseling on the matter. Many Soldiers often ask us if they can get divorced while deployed. The answer is, “sometimes, depending on your case and your state.”

On the other hand, if it is your spouse that is initiating the divorce proceeding, the SCRA offers you certain protections so that you may focus on your mission and not have to be concerned with the pending legal proceedings.

That is just another way the JAG Corps’ Legal Assistance Office can help you.

The Defense Switched Network phone number to the Legal Assistance Office in Camp Arifjan is 318430-5258. The office here will be relocated from Zone 6 to Zone 2 in January or February 2014.

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV

143d ESC

Staff Sgt. David Montalvo, a paralegal noncommissioned officer for the 143d ESC, reviews the “Manual for Courts-Martial United States” Nov. 26 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Montalvo and his team of paralegal specialists support the attorneys deployed to Kuwait as they help Soldiers manage legal matters from creating powers of attorney to initiating divorce proceedings. Soldiers deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom may call Camp Arifjan’s Legal Assistance Office via its DSN line at 318-430-5258.

Until then, we are located in building 1490, which is the same building as the post office in Zone 6.

While we do not turn away walk-ins, we suggest that you call ahead to make an appointment to ensure a timely meeting with an attorney.

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

7

Harboring Savings PHOTOS AND STORY BY SPC AARON ELLERMAN

Public Affairs Specialist, 143d ESC

K

UWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait - Two boats float side by side upon the salty greenish-blue water here Oct. 25. The Five Forks, Landing Craft Utility 2018, and the Corinth, LCU 2016, are home

to a crew of Army mariners from the 481st Transportation Company (Heavy Boat)‚ Detachment 3, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 143d ESC. The Army mariners of the 481st spent the first couple months of their ninemonth deployment here, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, stationed aboard the Five Forks. Now they must bid farewell as the vessel is scheduled to return to the U.S. for On Condition Cyclic Maintenance (OCCM).

“Army watercraft are set up for maintenance on a three-year rotation. The OCCM period is a 90 to 120 day depot level maintenance program that compliments crew level maintenance for optimum operational readiness,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Chad Troyer, marine maintenance officer for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary).

During the process of drawing equipment from Army Preposition Stock (APS), Army units normally fund the preparation and issue of a loan vessel for use while their vessel is in OCCM. Upon completion of OCCM, units would fund the cost of turning in the loaned vessel and the cost of issuing the original vessel. The new process avoids these costs along with the additional costs associated with shortages a unit may discover during the process.

“The 143d ESC provides oversight of the transfer process, ensuring cost effectiveness and efficiency. We work to coordinate the property transfer and the maintenance condition of the equipment,” said Troyer.

The new process is different from past exchanges as the Five Forks will not return to the unit but to the APS storage facility instead. The new exchange procedure is estimated to avoid approximately $50,000 in additional costs without reducing mission capability.

“The Five Forks has been through a lot and is aged by its use,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael R. Roberts, vessel master and 481st Transportation Company (Heavy Boat) detachment 3 commander. “The more hours a watercraft has, the more maintenance is required to keep it operational.”

SEE “SAVINGS,” PG. 9 >>> 8

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

An Army mariner from the 481st Transportation Company (Heavy Boat) - Detachment 3, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 143d ESC, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, prepare ropes aboard the Landing Craft Utility 2018, Five Forks, at Kuwait Naval Base Oct. 25. The ropes, used to tie the watercraft while docked, must be whipped to prevent the lines from unlaying.

<<< “SAVINGS,” CONT. The new exchange process will equal out the number of hours each ship has further reducing maintenance costs.”

Army watercraft provide efficient, cost-effective logistical support that would be time consuming or financially burdensome for the U.S. Army by other means.

The Army LCU class vessel can carry a payload of approximately 350 tons, or five M1 Abrahams tanks. The vessel’s low draft allows it to pick up and deliver cargo to places other ships of its size cannot.

The Army watercraft is relied upon for steady state operations for the reposition of assets throughout the theater. The steady state operations serve a twofold purpose of exercising the equipment and maintaining the proficiency of the crew. Army watercraft supports contingency operations by transporting the much needed resupplies to forward operating elements.

The Five Forks once held the record for the most nautical miles and tonnage hauled for an Army Watercraft. In May 2011 it was the first Army vessel to return to Iraq since 2003, thus re-establishing a presence for Army watercraft in the port of Umm-Qasr, Iraq.

In exchange for the Five Forks, the crew received the Corinth. The Corinth

Sgt. Anthony Sacramento, a Vallejo, Calif., native and watercraft engineer with the 481st Transportation Company (Heavy Boat) - Detachment 3, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), furnishes parts for his ship, landing craft utility 2016, the Corinth, here Nov. 2.

has been in the APS shipyard since 2003.

“I like that we are able to start fresh and put our mark on something new,”

To be able to work aboard the vessel each mariner must successfully complete

said Spc. Ricky Mullen, a Burson, Calif., native and watercraft operator with

a series of certifications. Some Soldiers aboard the Five Forks became certified

the 481st TC (Heavy Boat), Det. 3.

during the Transportation Logistics Over the Shore (TransLOTS) operation

Throughout the new process of transferring vessels the crew faced several challenges that they were able to overcome.

“You have to be able to work physically for long hours and are responsible for

“The biggest challenge for us is transferring the theater specific equipment from the Five Forks to the Corinth. Many of the vessels that are prepositioned in the states don’t come with the additional equipment that we need to operate here, such as weapons mounts and communications system,” said Roberts.

The crew of 17 consists of watercraft operators, engineers, a medic, a cook and a vessel master who are trained to perform multiple jobs and additional duties on board the vessel.

operating expensive equipment. Every small decision you make here can have huge consequences,” said Mullen.

The crew lives and works aboard the vessel 24/7 and considers it their home, so moving to a new ship is like moving to a new home for them.

“Living in close quarters requires a lot of patience, but I like it on the ship we are like a family because we are so close all the time,” said Mullen.

“It is important to recognize that throughout the organization every Soldier

The crew inspects every piece of equipment regularly ensuring everything from the lights on life vests to the boat’s ramp function properly.

2012, while training on 143d ESC watercraft off the coast of Puerto Rico.

can contribute to helping find ways to avoid unnecessary spending in all facets of their daily routines whether it is by land, air or sea,” said Troyer.

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

9

FAITH FAMILY

DUTY

A MUSLIM SOLDIER’S UNIQUE PATH

STORY BY 1ST LT. NICOLE ROSSMAN

Public Affairs Deputy Officer, 143d ESC

Photo courtesy of Staff Sgt. Ivonne M. Haidairy

143d ESC

Staff Sgt. Ivonne M. Haidary stands with her husband, S. Haidary, at their home in Florida.

W

hile most American families are busy

old enough her parents allowed her to choose her own faith.

Hariday’s

background

was while she was living in Florida

the 143d ESC. Haidary serves a vital

that she was introduced to a man

role in the 143d ESC maintaining

her father had arranged for her

personnel services and readiness

to marry, a common practice for

to include: awards and decorations,

Afghani men and women.

evaluation reports, promotions,

Although Haidary had the choice

discharges,

and

many

other

to back out of the arrangement,

administrative functions to sustain

and

after meeting her husband, she said

the war fighter.

trying to prepare

multicultural experience is part

she knew it was meant to be. They

“I thought back to the days when

their holiday season with one

of what influenced her decision

married that same year at the Taj

I was living in Panama and saw all

religious faith in mind, the Haidarys

to join the Army Reserve. As a

Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.

the Soldiers walking the streets.

are proud to be just a little bit more

young adolescent, Haidary’s family

Nine years later, at the age of 28

Everyone thought there were stars,”

culturally diverse.

relocated from Afghanistan to

and with two children, Haidary

said Haidary. “I thought this was

“We don’t really actually celebrate

La Chorrera, Panama. While she

decided she needed a change in her

my chance to do more.”

Christmas,” Staff Sgt. Ivonne M.

quickly came to appreciate her new

life. She found the challenge she

Haidary said with a smile. “It’s nice

home, it was not long afterwards

was looking for and enlisted in the

to see my husband getting excited,

that she witnessed a life-changing

United States Army in 1998.

laughing and getting into the

and traumatic event - the invasion

Christmas spirit.”

of Panama.

Being a practicing Muslim, she was uncertain how she would fit in

Haidary was born in Panama to

“I saw all the tanks around my

the United States Army, but it didn’t

a Catholic mother and raised in

house and Soldiers walking the

stop her. Her experience took her

Afghanistan by a Muslim father.

street with weapons. It was so cool

from the active component to the

She and her husband are both

for me at that time,” said Haidary.

Army Reserve, where she is currently

practicing Muslims. While the

“I didn’t understand much, but the

serving her second deployment with

family observes Ramadan, they also

Soldiers were like movie stars and

the 143d Sustainment Command

enjoy sharing Christmas festivities

everyone welcomed them.”

(Expeditionary), in support of

with their children.

“It’s like double presents every year in our house,” said Haidary,

The United States Invasion of Panama, code-named Operation Just Cause, began December 1989.

Operation Enduring Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Haidary currently serves as the non-commissioned-officer

who was exposed to both Catholic

At nineteen years old, yet another

in-charge (NCOIC) of personnel

and Muslim beliefs. When she was

move led her to the United States. It

services and casualty operations in

10

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV

143d ESC

Staff Sgt. Ivonne M. Haidary organizes her assault pack as her unit, the 143d ESC, prepares to board a plane bound for Kuwait Aug. 21 at Fort Hood, Texas.

Haidary is the only Muslim Soldier deployed with the 143d ESC.

Army Reserve helps close OEF gateway

Lieutenant Colonel Robert J. Neeley (front left), Army Central’s liaison officer command cell officer-in-charge, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), 1st Theater Sustainment Command, and Sgt. Maj. Thomas M. Schultz (front right), ARCENT’s liaison officer command cell noncommissioned officer-in-charge, 143d ESC, 1st TSC, provide command and control to more than 80 Reserve, active duty and National Guard Soldiers at Manas Transit Center, Kyrgyzstan.

are monitored by two individuals: Lt. Col. Robert

PHOTOS AND STORY

BY STAFF SGT. IAN SHAY

fluctuates,” said Neeley.

J. Neeley, Army Central liaison officer command

Army operations on Manas comprise active

cell officer-in-charge, 1st Theater Sustainment

duty, National Guard and Reserve Soldiers

ANAS, Kyrgyzstan – The sun has

Command,

Command

all with different backgrounds and skill sets.

yet to rise in Manas, but already

(Expeditionary), and Sgt. Maj. Thomas M.

Reserve Soldiers have the large task of running

Public Affairs Specialist NCO, 143d ESC

M

143d

Sustainment

dozens of sleepy-eyed, scruffy-

Schultz, ARCENT liaison officer command cell

24/7 custom operations for all deploying and

faced service members and contractors grab

noncommissioned officer-in-charge, 1st Theater

re-deploying service members, contractors and

their carry-on bags and file off the tail end of

Sustainment Command, 143d ESC. Neeley and

civilians.

a C-17 transport plane. Smelling like a mix of

Schultz, Reserve Soldiers, oversee all Army

“Under us we have the JMCC [Joint Movement

yesterday’s sweat and jet fuel, the unwashed

personnel in Manas, and manage & coordinate

Control Center] Soldiers who process everyone

mass, sleepwalk onto white buses that take them

deploying and redeploying units going to and

who comes in and out. We have the plate’s

from the landing strip of Manas Air Base, to

from Afghanistan. Neeley is employed full-

warehouse Soldiers, and custom’s Soldiers who

the Joint Movement Control Center (JMCC)

time as an Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Officer,

deal with re-deploying service members back

for their transient briefings. The buses pass

143d ESC and Schultz works as a Field Service

to the states or any of coalition forces going

through the worn down gates into Manas where

Engineer for Northrup Grumman when not

through. They go through the same screening

the empty streets reflect a suburban cul-de-sac

deployed.

process you would go through in any airport in

rather than a military base.

“The Army mission here at Manas is primarily

the United States,” said Schultz.

Dozens of conversations are carried on as

focused on joint RSO, which is reception,

“We have a career counselor on the

Soldiers and airmen excitedly await the moment

staging and onward movement of Army and

installation,” said Schultz. “They take care of

they can eat their next meal, shave or take their

coalition forces,” said Neeley.

any extensions or re-enlistments that transients

next shower.

Each service is represented at Manas as the

need assistance with. We also have a veterinary

This scene has been carried out daily for

Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines each provide

detachment. They care for the working dogs,

the last 12 years at Manas Air Base. Formerly

unique services. Specifically, the Army provides

bomb sniffing dogs.”

named Ganci Air Base, Manas has served

assistance to all Army personnel, as well as most

as

coalition forces that pass through here.

a

deployment/re-deployment

transient

gateway into and out of theater operations in Afghanistan.

The Army and coalition transient operations

“Sergeant Major Schultz and I are mission command for all of the Army elements here on Manas, right now we are over 80 personnel, it

Neeley and Schultz conduct Mayor’s Walks regularly through-out the transient housing in Manas, to ensure the transient tents have

SEE “GATEWAY,” PG. 12>>>

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

11

<<< “GATEWAY,” CONT. working smoke detectors, lighting and sufficient heat for the Kyrgyzstan climate.

“It’s a health and welfare inspection, we only go through the transient billets and we’re looking for safety violations; light bulbs out, smoke detectors disabled and daisy chained power strips which are fire hazards. We’re trying to prevent loss of life,” said Schultz.

The biggest hurdle at transient center Manas falls at the feet of Neeley and Schultz as they oversee almost every coalition force passing through.

“There are some challenges that are inherent just because of different cultural differences and language barriers,” said Neeley. “Nothing that is problematic. It’s just an unusual experience to deal with.”

Even with the challenges Neeley finds his role fulfilling.

“We’re basically getting our hands on everybody that is coming in and out of Afghanistan . . . we try and make it as smooth and painless as possible. It is very rewarding,” said Neeley. “The elements that we have here from the Army Reserve, National Guard and active component work together seamlessly. It’s a great team.”

As the only country in the world to host both a U.S. and Russian base simultaneously, Kyrgyzstan will soon lose that unique distinction in spring 2014 when the U.S. presence there is no longer required due to U.S. re-deployment from Afghanistan.

“Depending on the flow, between 10,000 and 20,000 Soldiers and service members come through here in a week,” said Neeley. “We will start seeing it swing toward re-deployers as we execute the President’s plan for drawdown in Afghanistan.

The fewer numbers coming through Manas is apparent.

“Our numbers have gone down because they have torn down about 30 tents in the past month or so,” said Schultz.

With operations still ongoing in Afghanistan until late 2014, transients will be rerouted elsewhere.

“The mission will transfer over to a base in Romania,” said Neeley.

“The final personnel transients in Afghanistan will be done by a group in Romania.”

Neeley gives some advice to the soldiers and service members taking over the mission in Romania.

“Our biggest takeaway is be involved,” said Neeley. “It’s a very complex mission that the people here make look simple. If you’re involved and know what’s going on, you can get in front of potential issues.”

Originally, Manas was named after fallen New York Fire Chief Peter J. Ganci Jr., who died in the line of duty during 9/11. Although the Air Force dropped the name to adhere to a long standing rule that no installation will be named after civilians, Ganci’s influence is still felt Sergeant Clarissa F. Giles, supply specialist, 391st Military Police Battalion out of Columbus, Ohio, scans a Soldier during the customs process at Transit Center Manas to ensure no illegal or harmful items are carried out of theater. Thousands of Soldiers pass through customs each week to either deploy or re-deploy, making custom operations essential to the safety and security of service members, contractors and foreign military allies.

on post as service members and contractors spend most nights at Pete’s Place, a tavern/morale and welfare entertainment center located at the heart of the base.

Manas’ unique history has left fond memories for a majority of service members who have warmed to its cool climate with the occasional drink at Pete’s. Only time will tell if the emerging facilities in Romania will evoke similar emotions.

12

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

FORGING

desert

leaders

Above: Spc. Brianna Falzone, a paralegal specialist with the 143d ESC, scans her sector of fire while patrolling through the situational training exercise lanes during a Warrior Leadership Course held Nov. 17 in Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

Photos by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Photo illustration by Sgt. John Carkeet

143d ESC

STORY BY SPC AARON ELLERMAN

Public Affairs Specialist, 143d ESC

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

13

C

AMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - The sound of explosions and gunfire

Photo Maj. John Adams

143d ESC

pierces the air, muddled with the scent of gunpowder which lingers in the mid-November dawn. Beams of sunlight shine over

the sandy berms, illuminating a squad of Soldiers maneuvering through the situational training exercise lanes as a boisterous voice barks commands that cut through the chaotic atmosphere in a desperate struggle to be heard.

Four Soldiers with the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) attended a Warrior Leadership Course that began here in mid-October. WLC is the first course of study in the Army Noncommissioned Officer Education System. The month-long course trains specialists, corporals and sergeants in the fundamentals of leadership.

WLC is usually taken at the Soldiers home station or a nearby Army training facility. Having the course offered in an operational environment provides a unique and beneficial opportunity for the Soldiers who attend.

“Being able to offer the course to Soldiers throughout this area enables us to alleviate some of the backlog of Soldiers who need this course to meet promotion requirements,” said Sgt. First Class Dean Lee, WLC instructor with the mobile training team out of Fort Bragg, N.C.

Sergeant Wilfredo Ramos-Prado, a transportation management coordinator with the 143d ESC, takes cover behind a berm while conducting movement and maneuver drills during a Warrior Leadership Course held Nov. 17 in Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to train here where we are immersed in the environment and climate of the battlefield,” said Sgt. Wilfredo Ramos-Prado, a

“Our team developed all of the training scenarios based on our own

WLC student and transportation management coordinator for the 143d ESC.

combat experiences,” said Lee. We try to keep the training current with the

Soldiers with experience in a variety of career fields came to WLC from

contemporary operational environment. Not everything a Soldier does

units spread throughout the region.

“I feel taking WLC here is more serious,” said Spc. Christina Moore, a financial management technician with the 336th Financial Management Command. “When my husband took the course this May, he came home every day and got to drive his car. I think you become more immersed here having to march everywhere and having to be around your fellow Soldiers 24/7. It forces you to get to know new people and build lasting military friendships.”

The course curriculum is broken into three segments that include instruction in leadership, training, and warfighting skills.

“The course has been a great learning experience that has taught me what areas of leadership I am strong and weak in allowing me to focus my

out on the battlefield is going to be a kinetic operation, so we include a variety of scenarios in our instruction to include everything from key leader engagements to recovering a downed unmanned aerial vehicle.”

The different training scenarios give Soldiers from different backgrounds a chance to experience something new.

“The hands-on combat training here was invaluable because we usually don’t receive that type of training unless it directly relates to our job,” said Ramos-Prado.

With the mobile training team ending its tour in November, the next WLC offered here is postponed until next spring when another team will deploy here to train future Army leaders.

leadership development accordingly,” said WLC student Sgt. Nathaniel Perez, an ammunition stock control and accounting specialist for the 143d ESC. “The course was great; it taught me how to lead Soldiers the right way.

During the course I was responsible for several Soldiers which forced me to put away my shy personality,” said Moore.

The mobile training team of instructors arrived here in April and leaves Nov. 21. During their time here the team trained nearly 1000 future Army leaders. The team was the first in the theater of operations to establish a land navigation course for its students and built the entire scenario training exercise lanes area from scratch.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

14

143d ESC

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • www.flickr.com/143dESC

A solid performer in the company. Serious, determined and committed to the unit's mission. Works hard; plays harder. Likes to let loose on the weekends and blow off steam. Loves the outdoors and being on or near the water. Never learned to swim. One person knows him well. His battle buddy.

Training, discipline and standards are the bedrock of our Army, and as Soldiers, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been taught what right looks like. As leaders, you have a duty and a responsibility to maintain standards in your formations.

You also have an obligation to your Soldiers and their Families to manage risk and take action to correct problems. In our fight against accidental injuries and fatalities, knowledge is the weapon of choice.

https://safety.army.mil

AROUND THE ESC Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Atak, a military working dog deployed to Transit Center Manas, Kyrgyzstan, with the Air Force’s 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, shows Sgt. Maj. Thomas M. Schultz, Army Central’s liaison officer command cell noncommissioned officer-in-charge, 143d ESC, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, how hard he can bite human flesh and bone.

Schultz and several senior Air Force and Army officers and noncommissioned officers assigned to Manas participated in this K-9 security demonstration held Nov. 8.

143d ESC

Soldiers from the 54th Quartermaster Company (Mortuary Affairs) Forward Detachment were presented with end of tour awards during an awards ceremony and transfer of authority presentation Nov. 19 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Col. James C. Bagley, chief of staff for the 1st Theater Sustainment Command (Forward) and 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), 1st Lt. Delaina Sheppard, officer in charge, 54th QM Co. and Sgt. 1st Class Seth Smallman, non-commissioned officer in charge, 54th QM Co., presented more than 20 Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals and five certificates of achievement to the outgoing Soldiers.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Rauel Tirado

204th PAD

Lieutenant Colonel Foster Hudson from the Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 143d ESC, Sgt. 1st Class Joslyn Feurtado from the Joint Communications Support Element in MacDill Air Force Base, and Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Edmond from the 332nd Transportation Battalion, 143d ESC, participate in a retirement ceremony at the David R. Wilson Armed Forces Reserve Center in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 17. Col. Christopher Myer, commander of the 143d ESC Army Reserve Mission Command, presided over the ceremony that included awards and a U.S. flag presentation.

16

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • www.flickr.com/143dESC

AROUND THE ESC Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Sergeant First Class Edward Campbell, senior food operations sergeant, 143d ESC, stands next to a miniature Statue of Liberty that his team at the Oasis Dining Facility in Camp Arifjan hand carved for a Thanksgiving celebration held Nov. 28 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.

Photo by 1st Lt. Nicole Rossman

Photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Ross

210th MPAD

Sergeant Elizabeth Garza reviews her target during weapons qualification conducted by the 824th Quartermaster Company Nov. 2 at Fort Bragg, N.C.

143d ESC

Lieutenant General James L. Terry (center), commanding general, Third Army/Army Central, visits the Army Watercraft Company, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 143d ESC, 1st Theater Sustainment Command at Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait, Nov. 24. Terry had an opportunity to maneuver the vessel under the guidance of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Roberts (right), vessel commander, United States Army Vessel Corinth (Landing Craft Utility 2016).

Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman

143d ESC

Soldiers from the 143d ESC signal the end of the duty day as they perform a retreat ceremony Nov. 5 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The Soldiers raise and lower the base’s American flag to the sound of “To the Colors” each day to render honor to the nation. Soldiers performing the duty were Sgt. 1st Class Ivan Alicea, Sgt. Maria Betancourt, Spc. Cedrick Bland, Spc. Joshua Bell and Spc. Richard Caudell.

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

17

AROUND THE ESC

Courtesy Photo

Australian Embassy, Kuwait

Matthew H. Tueller (far left, standing), the U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, joins Soldiers from the 143d ESC for a group photo during the Association of the United States Army Kuwait Chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seventh annual Thanksgiving Celebration held Nov. 28 at the Hilton Kuwait Resort in Mangaf, Kuwait.

More than 320 American service members and dignitaries from Kuwait, Australia, Canada and Great Britain attended the beachfront event that included an arts and crafts bizarre, live music, swimming, sports, games and a traditional Thanksgiving feast.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Sergeant Major Monte Waller, support operations sergeant major for the 143d ESC, looks through the contents of a care package Nov. 19 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The Association of the United States Army Sunshine Chapter in Orlando, Fla., sent dozens of care packages to Soldiers deployed with the 143d ESC in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay

143d ESC

Newly promoted Staff Sgt. James Lee, intelligence sergeant, 143d ESC, receives a round of applause from his peers during a promotion ceremony held Nov. 15 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Two other Soldiers received promotions; nine Soldiers received awards and 17 Soldiers were awarded physical fitness patches.

18

ESC TODAY â&#x20AC;˘ http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

AROUND THE ESC

Photo by Maj. John Adams

143d ESC

Colonel Christopher P. Govekar (far left), commander, 143d ESC, meets with members of the Bangladesh military and other foreign military representatives Nov. 21 at the Crown Plaza in Kuwait City, Kuwait, to celebrate Bangladesh’s 42nd annual Armed Forces Day. The day celebrates a 1971 joint operation when the Bangladesh military and freedom fighters put down occupation forces.

Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman

143d ESC

With the Gator Nation flag displayed on the turret of a decommissioned T-55 tank, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joseph Phoebus (left), chief warrant officer, 143d ESC, records a video shout-out to his fellow University of Florida Gator fans Nov. 19 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Phoebus was one of three 143d ESC Soldiers who answered UF’s call for shout-outs as part of its Military Appreciation Day held Nov. 23 in Gainesville, Fla.

Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman

143d ESC

Army mariners from the 481st Transportation Company (Heavy Boat), Detachment 3, 371st Sustainment Brigade, 143d ESC, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, prepare ropes aboard the Landing Craft Utility 2018, Five Forks, docked off Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait, Oct. 25.

143d ESC

Sergeant Wilfredo Ramos-Pardo, a transportation management coordinator with the 143d ESC, takes cover behind a wrecked Humvee and returns fire while conducting movement drills during a Warrior Leadership Course held Nov. 17 in Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

19

AROUND THE ESC

Photo Courtesy of Anna Dieuveuil

UNIT PHOTOS WANTED The “ESC Today” wants to show off photos of Soldiers from your unit performing operational duties and basic soldiering skills. Include a caption with names, ranks, place, date and a short description of what is happening in each photo, then send your images to:

john.j.adams7.mil@mail.mil

Boys & Girls Club

Children from the Boys & Girls Club Taft Branch watch Sgt. Lindsay Rose and Sgt. J.D. Taylor from the 143d ESC as they give a presentation on the capabilities of the Humvee. The educational presentation was part of the Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida’s Career Night event held Nov. 20 in Orlando, Fla.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Rauel Tirado

Photo by Sgt. Dianne M. Carter

U.S. Army

First Lieutenant Carla Butler assigned to the 461st Human Resources Company at Decatur, Ga., picks up postal labels she must properly use in a postal class exercise during Silver Scimitar at Fort Devens, Mass., Nov. 13. Silver Scimitar is the U.S. Army Forces Command’s biannual, multi-echelon training exercise designed to train Human Resources units scheduled for deployment on core competencies for operations within a deployed area of responsibility.

20

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

204th PAD

Master Sergeant Cheryl B. Harmon with the 143d ESC shakes hands with two girls watching Universal Studios Orlando’s 7th annual Veterans Day Parade held Nov. 9 at Universal Studios theme park in Orlando, Fla. Universal Orlando’s Veterans Network invited Soldiers from the 143d ESC to march in the parade and join hundreds of other service members for a veterans appreciation luncheon at the park.

A PAST TOGETHER Photo courtesy of Capt. Julius S. Myers

ARCENT

Photo courtesy of Capt. Sabah Al-Sabah

Kuwait Ministry of Defense

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV

143d ESC

A WORLD APART STORY BY SGT. JOHN L. CARKEET IV

Public Affairs NCO, 143d ESC Public Affairs

C

AMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT - The familiar chant echoed across the desert.

“Go Army! Beat Navy!”

More than a dozen U.S. Military Academy graduates converged at Army Support Group – Kuwait’s headquarters in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, to show their support toward their alma mater through a video shout-out that will likely air during the 114th engagement on the gridiron between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen.

The 16 West Point graduates that faced the camera on that overcast morning of Oct. 30 exemplified the Army’s classroom educated and battlefield-tested officer corps. Men and women holding ranks of first lieutenant through brigadier general wore combat patches from numerous active, Reserve and National Guard components, while many of the group’s Army combat uniforms bore airborne, air assault and combat action skill badges. Heads nodded and faces smiled as the graduates reminisced about their days marching in the long gray line.

SEE “REUNION,” PG. 22>>>

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

21

Julius S. Myers, a former football player for the Black Knights and a native of Dublin, Pa. “West Point created a common struggle for everyone attending,” said Myers, currently deployed to Kuwait as the G3 executive officer for U.S. Army Central.

“It is designed to force you to fail at some point and push you to your limits.

This is regardless of where you are from and what country you represent.”

“I really appreciated not being separated from the [American] cadets so I could have similar experiences with everyone else,” Al-Sabah added. “Everyone drilled so often and in the same way that everything became automatic. Once you go through ‘The Beast’ [basic training], you get how the system operates and what’s expected of you.”

“The environment [at West Point] fosters a sense of collaboration between Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV

143d ESC

Capt. Sabah M. Al-Sabah, an intelligence officer for the Kuwait Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Military Intelligence, speaks to one of his fellow classmates from the U.S. Military Academy at the conclusion of a video shoutout for the 2013 Army-Navy game. Al-Sabah learned about West Point’s international cadet program while he was attending Mount St. Albans, an all boys Jesuit high school in Washington, D.C., made famous by its alumni such as Apollo astronaut Michael Collins.

<<< “REUNION,” CONT. To a casual observer walking along Patton Boulevard that day, the scene would have looked no different than any other reunion if it were not for the lone officer wearing a desert camouflage uniform with the Kuwait national flag sewn on his right shoulder.

As a member of West Point’s graduating class of 2007, Capt. Sabah M. Al-

cadets,” said Myers. “We want to help each other succeed against our common ‘enemy,’ which happens to be the academy’s challenges. As a result U.S. cadets and partner nation cadets will not hesitate to learn from each other.”

Both officers admitted that defeating the “enemy” came only after they applied the fundamentals of prioritization and time management. Mastering these leadership traits helped Al-Sabah and Myers not only earn their bachelor degrees and officer commissions but also excel in their enmeshed military careers.

“I earned my bachelor’s in business management,” said Al-Sabah. “Because my job requires me to manage, analyze and disseminate information, I must apply what I learned at West Point every day.”

Al Sabah’s role as an intelligence officer with Kuwait’s Ministry of Defense has given him opportunities to connect with Myers and other West Point alumni currently assigned to ARCENT.

Sabah, an intelligence officer for the Kuwait Ministry of Defense’s Directorate

“Working with our American counterparts is an integral part of our mission,”

of Military Intelligence, had earned the right to join the “Go Army! Beat

said Al-Sabah. “I have forged relationships with many of my classmates and

Navy!” chorus. His credentials prompted curiosity among the group as to how

senior officers. For example, my meeting with Myers in Camp Arifjan after

an officer in Kuwait’s military spent four years living, learning and leading

nearly six years since [our] graduation was comfortable and familiar.”

soldiers at one of America’s most prestigious military academies.

“I found out about West Point’s International Cadet Program through the U.S. embassy in Kuwait,” said Al-Sabah in precise, lightly British-accented English. “I started the application process while I was attending Mount St. Albans, an all boys Jesuit School in Washington, [D.C].”

Al-Sabah’s close proximity to West Point stemmed from his father’s unique political role.

“My father was appointed ambassador to the U.S. in 1990 and remained in that position during the Bush and Clinton administrations,” said Al-Sabah.

After completing the necessary paperwork and earning a nomination from Kuwait’s minister of defense, Al-Sabah officially became a cadet in Kuwait’s military in 2003. Rather than following his comrades to one of his country’s academies, Al-Sabah returned to the U.S. to join the ranks of West Point’s corps of cadets.

Myers compared the friendships forged from spending four years at West Point to the country’s commitment to develop stronger relationships with its allies.

“America has an obligation to understand and relate to our international partners,” said Myers. “We can learn much from Kuwait’s culture, history and heritage. With the way the modern world is, we have to work together for our own survival and our partner’s survival.”

As the two officers shook hands and exchanged business cards, the original reason for their summons to ASG-Kuwait headquarters took hold of the conversation.

“I played quarterback my freshman year then outside linebacker for my remaining three years [at West Point],” said Myers.

“I watched all the Army-Navy football games while I was at West Point,” said Al-Sabah. “It was mandatory.”

“Unlike most military academies in the world, West Point does not have a

Both men predict that the Black Knights will come out on top in December.

separate curriculum for international students,” said Al-Sabah. “My uniform

Although recent history paints a different picture (Navy has beaten Army 12

did not have anything that differentiated me from the other cadets.”

years in a row), the officers’ allegiance to their alma mater speaks volumes of

The complete integration of West Point’s international cadets with their

their mutual respect for their country, their school and for each other.

American counterparts guaranteed that every student shared the same

“The friendships I formed at West Point are lifelong, and the lessons I

challenges. Despite contrasting social statuses and cultural backgrounds, Al-

learned there are priceless,” said Al-Sabah. “I have the utmost respect for this

Sabah’s experience at West Point was not unlike those of his classmate, Capt.

institution, and I am grateful to be part of it.”

22

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC

www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • December 2013

23

BY MAJ. SANDY GOSCINIAK Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, 143d ESC

Is it really confidential?

What is the DOD Safe Helpline?

We strictly protect the confidentiality of online visitors. RAINN does not Have you ever wondered what options are available if you, or someone you know, have been sexually assaulted? Of course your unit Sexual Assault

collect personally identifying information, store transcripts of online sessions or store IP addresses. All services are confidential and anonymous.

Response Coordinator or Victim Advocate is available 24/7. You may also talk to a chaplain or go to your nearest Troop Medical Clinic. But another option

What services does Safe Helpline provide?

you may not be familiar with is the Department of Defense’s Safe Helpline.

The following information is provided from the DOD Safe Helpline website:

~ Crisis intervention

The DOD Safe Helpline provides confidential crisis intervention, support

~ Emotional support

and information to Service members of the DOD community who have

~ Referrals to both civilian and military resources in your area

been sexually assaulted. Safe Helpline is available anytime, anywhere — 24/7,

~ Information on military reporting options (Restricted vs. Unrestricted)

worldwide.

~ Information for family and friends of victims

Who operates Safe Helpline?

Safe Helpline is operated by the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization.

All Safe Helpline services, including online sessions, are provided by RAINN

How do Safe Helpline Online sessions work?

It works just like instant messaging. You’ll enter into a one-on-one session with a Safe Helpline staffer and communicate live by typing messages back and forth. The service is completely anonymous and confidential.

through a contract with the DOD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. However, your information will remain confidential. RAINN will not

Can I talk to someone instead of using an online session?

share your name or any other personally-identifying information with DOD SAPRO or chain of command.

RAINN and its network of 1,100 sexual assault service providers have operated the National Sexual Assault Hotline since 1994, providing help

If you prefer to talk over the phone, you can call the Safe Helpline 24/7 at 1-877-995-5247. The phone number is the same for use inside the U.S. or via the Defense Switched Network.

by phone to more than 1.5 million people. In 2006 RAINN launched the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline, the nation’s first online crisis hotline,

Does Safe Helpline provide ongoing help?

which has helped more than 100,000 visitors.

RAINN has adapted the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline to provide

Safe Helpline provides immediate crisis help and information. If you

specialized help online via Safe Helpline to members of the DOD community

need ongoing help, Safe Helpline staff will connect you to your SARC or

who have been sexually assaulted. All Safe Helpline staff members have

local civilian sexual assault service provider, both of whom will provide

been trained to answer questions relating to military-specific topics such as

free support services.

Restricted and Unrestricted Reporting and how to contact relevant military resources, such as your installation and base’s SARC should those services be

Learn more at www.safehelpline.org/search.cfm.

requested.

24

You can always be connected to either of these resources by calling Safe Helpline at 1-877-995-5247 (inside the U.S. or via the DSN).

ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC