Vol. 7, Issue 8
143D SUSTAINMENT COMMAND (EXPEDITIONARY)
November 2013
ESC TODAY
TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY
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<< On the Front Cover
A color guard comprising Soldiers from the 135th ESC and 143d ESC stand at attention during a Transfer of Authority ceremony held Oct. 24 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The ceremony signifies the final phase of the 135th ESC’s deployment within U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility and the beginning of the 143d ESC’s mission command within the region.
RITY
11
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 Staff Sgt. Ian Shay, 143d ESC Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV “ESC Today” Layout & Graphic Designer
Inside This Issue >> Messages from the top..........................................................3
CONTRIBUTORS: Lt. Col. Terence P. Murphy 143d ESC Staff Judge Advocate Lt. Col. Brian Ray 143d ESC Chaplain
Financing the future...............................................................8
Maj. Mark L. Carpenter 143d ESC Command Inspector General
143d ESC youth and family programs.....................................9
Maj. Sandra L. Gosciniak 143d ESC SHARP Officer
143d ESC turns in excess vehicles.......................................10 Taking the reins....................................................................11 General Discussion: George S. Patton..................................13
1st Lt. Nicole Rossman 143d ESC Public Affairs Executive Officer Sgt. 1st Class Tim Lawn 1st Theater Sustainment Command
Service under the surface......................................................15
Staff Sgt. James Burroughs 135th ESC Public Affairs
Around the ESC...................................................................16
Staff Sgt. Joel M. Gottke 371st Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs
Safety: It’s your choice...........................................................20 “I.A.M. Strong:” Taking action...............................................22 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. Kimberly Hill 371st Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Staff Sgt. Ian B. Shay 143d ESC Public Affairs NCO Sgt. Elisebet Freeburg 204th Public Affairs Detachment Spc. Aaron Ellerman 143d ESC Public Affairs Specialist Mark Daly 143d ESC Safety Director Marta Feliciano Army Child, Youth & School Services
The Command Post
G
Col. Christopher P. Govekar Commander 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
reetings from Kuwait! I’d like to take a moment to express my personal thanks to all of you
serving with the ESC for your professionalism
As we move into the future, I know the 143d
goal requires Soldiers, leaders and units to
and commitment. Whether you’re serving
ESC team will not falter nor will it bend. We are a
deploy and accomplish their mission anywhere
in Afghanistan, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait,
professional organization, rich with history and
in the world. As an Army Reserve organization,
Orlando, or continuing to train in your
a record of success. Each of you are empowered
our
formations across the ESC, you represent
to maintain that status through your personal
capabilities
the best the nation has to offer. Because of
efforts and example for all around you. Thank
acquired skills, allowing us to bring a diversity
you and your efforts, we are recognized as a
you for what you do!
and flexibility to military operations needed to
Soldiers
couple
with
essential
equally
military
critical
civilian
professional, honorable and dedicated part of
In November, we recognize the significant
solve the most difficult problems. Maintaining
the total Army. Wherever we serve, in whatever
contributions the first Americans made to the
Soldier readiness at the physical, administrative
capacity, the 143d ESC is the premier logistics
establishment and growth of the United States
and training level is the foundation of all we do,
formation in the Army Reserve.
during Native American Heritage Month. We
and we must not allow that readiness to falter in
encourage all within the formation to take time
the face of high operational tempo or difficult
during November to celebrate the significant
financial circumstances. Leaders ensure and
contributions comrades.
empower Soldiers to meet our missions head-
of
our
Native
American
on and with vigor. Families empower Soldiers
There is much uncertainty facing our
to focus on the task at hand, and Soldiers and
Army in the immediate and
units empower Families to be resilient in the
not too distant future.
face of deployment or separation. The 143d
Regardless of this
ESC total Army family is the foundation for all
u n c e r t a i n t y,
we do and our success depends on it. Take time
the
American
people and
your organization.
demand
As always, stay safe out there, wherever you are. I look forward to seeing you across the
of their Army
143d ESC’s vast battlespace. Ensure you foster a
as
they
ever
professional environment, focus on the mission
–
the
and have fun! As serious as our mission is, there
ability to fight
must always be time for fun as we support one
and nation’s 135th ESC
to nurture your families and the families within
the same thing
have
Photo by Staff Sgt. James Burroughs
expect
win
our wars.
Accomplishing this
another. Again – thank you for all you do. I am humbled and grateful to be among you. Sustaining Victory! Army Strong!
www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
3
THE BOTTOM LINE
A
ttention NCOs: The 143d ESC needs
would have never happened without the 143d’s
your help.
commanding officers earning the trust and respect
I have been the 143d ESC’s command
of their NCOs and junior enlisted Soldiers.
sergeant major for less than a month. Although I
Some of you may believe that we lost some of
have much to learn, it only took me a few days to
that trust and respect in recent months. Although
realize that no one can do this job alone.
I will not refute such statements, I will argue that
My ability to the meet the high standards of
communication and self-evaluation offer solutions
this position depends on the 143d’s success in its
to the challenges the 143d faces now or might face
missions both at home and abroad; and that success
in the future.
is ultimately defined by its first line leaders. That’s
Several years ago I took the Army’s Multi-Source
why I look to you, the world’s most professional
Assessment and Feedback (MSAF360) tool.
noncommissioned officer corps, for advice,
MSAF360 is an online survey designed to identify
guidance and inspiration.
a Soldier’s leadership potential by encouraging input
I intend to use this column as an forum to express
from his or her superiors, peers and subordinates.
my expectations for this command and, more
Rather than sharing this survey with associates
importantly, understand the expectations you
that genuinely liked me, I sought out Soldiers who
Command Sgt. Maj. Ferdinand Collazo, Jr. Command Sergeant Major 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
have of me. But first, I owe you some background
would offer their honest opinion. Some of the
Soldiers’ field of expertise is not limited to their
information:
feedback was unsettling, if not downright upsetting.
MOS. Don’t be surprised that an 88M is a project
However, those candid comments produced the best
manager for a Fortune 500 company, or a 42A is a
evaluation I’ve ever received in my military career.
college professor at an Ivy League university. We as
I have worn an Army uniform for more than 33 years. Of those, 18 have been with the 143d ESC. In 2002, I served as the first sergeant for the
I share this story to remind us of the importance
NCOs must embrace these diverse occupations and
143d’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company.
of integrity among the ranks. As NCOs, we must be
incorporate them into our training, missions and
I continued to train and lead Soldiers as the unit’s
honest with not only our Soldiers but also ourselves.
operations.
equal opportunity advisor in 2005, and then as
Facilitate an environment where your section or
The Army has stood the test of time by honoring
the G1 sergeant major in 2006. One year later, my
unit may freely (but respectfully) communicate
the standards established by our comrades and
experience in the Signal Corps would lead me to
their concerns by seeking feedback at every level
forefathers who fought for the very freedoms we have
fulfilling the responsibilities of the G6’s sergeant
of command. Reward your Soldiers’ strengths and
sworn to defend. I am proud to have the opportunity
major.
acknowledge their weaknesses, then take steps to
to uphold these standards by exemplifying the Army
use the resources at your disposal to enhance your
Values in every facet of my personal and professional
skills and those of your future leaders.
life. If you share this passion, then I hope you will
During those two decades, I witnessed firsthand the 143d’s evolution from a quiet Transportation Command centralized in the southeast to an
One of the greatest gifts the Army Reserve gives
join us in the 143d ESC’s quest to become the Army
intrepid Expeditionary Command sustaining
to the military comes from its people who have a
Reserve’s premiere organization of professional
victory throughout the world. This transformation
plethora of experience in the civilian sector. Our
Soldiers and outstanding leaders.
“Commute to the Compound”
Illustration by Sgt. 1st Class Tim Lawn
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ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC
1st TSC
T
KEEPING THE FAITH
he other day as I sat listening to Chaplain
there as being crystal clear when it came to what I
Tom
Qatar,
did as a chaplain assistant. Soldiers turned to God
something he said struck a significant
McCort’s
sermon
in
regularly in moments of need as well as moments
chord. He said, “It’s the small things that choke out
of praise; faith in Afghanistan seems as essential as
the Gospel.” That simple sentence has stuck with me
bread and water.
as a common chord throughout my deployment.
In Kuwait, we have plenty of entertainment, plenty
I must admit that I continuously compare the
of sports activities, great Wi-Fi and downtime. Our
experience I had in Afghanistan in 2009 with my
MWR staff at Camp Arifjan does an excellent job of
current experience in Kuwait. In Afghanistan, we
keeping the Soldiers busy after hours. Our Crossfit
couldn’t keep enough Bibles on hand to satisfy our
team, running mafia, spinning class and abs class
Soldiers’ need for scripture. Church services were
help keep us physically fit. There’s a movie every
full, and we confronted life and death on a daily
night of the week, and big screen televisions keeping
basis. I counted attendance at various worship
us connected to our favorite football teams. And
services averaging at a hundred for most of the
while all of this is great, across the board these
services. The Gospel service at Kandahar grew so numerous that we moved it from Fraise Chapel to
Master Sgt. Ward Gros Chaplain Assistant 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
family and friends, to reconnect with your faith no
the Morale Welfare and Recreation tent.
matter what you believe. A recent visit to Kuwait
Today Chaplain (Capt.) Juan Ford and his
by Chaplain (Capt.) Thomas Dyer, the Army’s
assistant, Sgt. Ron Mohone, with the 207th Regional Support Group continue to find
first Buddhist Chaplain, helped more than a
the rewards of deep ministry at Kandahar
few of our Soldiers here deepen their faith.
Army Airfield. Soldiers in Afghanistan
Buddhists and non-Buddhists participated
rely on faith as if their lives depended
in a deep meditation led by Chaplain Dyer who had travelled from Afghanistan to
on it. Earning their hazardous duty pay
connect with Soldiers in Kuwait.
where bad guys are a daily concern gives
Whether Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Jew
them reason for staring mortality in the
or whatever your faith perspective might be, I
face. Chaplain (Maj.) Hank McCaskill and Sgt. David George are involved with numerous Bible
encourage each and every one of you to ask yourself
studies and worship at the New Kabul Compound.
where you stand in faith today. How important is your faith to you today, and where do you see your
They also travel regularly from Kabul to Bagram to Kandahar, reaching out to chaplains and assistants.
activities often take
You might think that they are worn out and tired
spiritual fitness used to be.
the place of where our
faith taking you tomorrow? My faith increases when I see God’s hand in the details of my life, no matter
and frustrated with this challenge, but the opposite
When MWR or sleeping in or working out
how routine my daily events may seem. Mother
holds true. Every time I talk with them, they seem
takes away from our focus on faith, then Chaplain
Theresa said, “Be faithful in small things because
invigorated by their journey, “Bringing God to
McCort’s statement, “It’s the small things that choke
it is in them that your strength lies.” Her statement
Soldiers, and Soldiers to God”. Afghanistan has a way of weeding out the distractions.
brings a change in perspective because instead
out the Gospel,” holds true. I would encourage you, our Soldiers,
of letting the small things distract us from getting closer to God, it encourages us to see God in our daily encounters.
I remember life
Whether we find ourselves in Afghanistan, Kuwait, at home, or wherever we may be, let us always remember Paul’s words in the Second Letter to Timothy, when he writes, “I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.” These are key words for any
Chaplains and chaplain assistants from the 1st Theater Sustainment Command take a moment from their spiritual duties to pose for a group photo Oct. 15 at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. From left to right: Sgt. Ron Mohone, Chaplain (Capt.) Juan Ford, Chaplain (Capt.) Hank McCaskill and Sgt. David George. Photo by Master Sgt. Christine Wilson
6
ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC
endeavor we find ourselves in no matter where we may find ourselves. Let us focus on our goals 1st TSC
at hand; let us go the distance, and always let us keep the faith.
The Legal Corner
T
his past week saw the 143d ESC accept
prepared to go live with mission execution.
mission command within Central
The sustainment “ship” is on course, and
Command’s Area of Responsibility
we must now hold it steady as we take charge
from our new friends at the 135th Sustainment
of the mission to provide quality and timely
Command
Alabama
sustainment services to our customers. The
command
Soldiers of the 143d ESC will be successful
National
(Expeditionary), Guard
an
sustainment
headquartered in Birmingham, Ala. During the transition period, the leaders and
through hard work, discipline and sharing that common goal.
Lt. Col. Terence P. Murphy Staff Judge Advocate 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
Soldiers of the 135th provided outstanding
There will be some days that are long, frustrating
assistance to the 143d as we transition into
and tiresome. There will be some days when it
our mission. They were ready, willing and able
feels like nothing happens, and there will be days
to offer their expertise and share their lessons
that we won’t be able to take a breath until the
How can we approach each day with the
learned with us as the 143d ESC prepared to
day is done. Whatever the type of day, we must
mindset of doing our best in every way,
take over new responsibilities. The efforts of
end it with an honest assessment; did we do all
everyday? We need to ensure that each of us
our outgoing counterparts ensured a seamless
we could, in the best way we could to aid and
develop an outlet to release the stresses of each
“passing of the baton” and put the 143d ESC in
enhance mission success? If we answer, “yes,” to
day. This can be done by having a list of books to
position to share in the exceptional success that
that question, individually and collectively, on a
read and keeping count of how many we’ve read,
the 135th ESC enjoyed. We are now trained and
daily basis, there will be no other possible result
by creating a workout routine to build your body
to report than, “mission success.”
and designing a better diet to follow, by learning to play the guitar or speak another language, or in any other way that your imagination can think of. The 135th ESC goes home now with honor for a job well done. The expectation is nothing less for the 143d ESC. By consistently demonstrating loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage both on and off duty, we will make the deployment go faster, and you will feel better in your work and in ourselvesf. As Soldiers and individuals, Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay
143d ESC
The 135th ESC, an Alabama National Guard unit based in Birmingham, Ala., took command of logistical misisons under Central Command’s area of responsibility in March. The unit linked up with its counterparts from the 143d ESC in August to ensure a smooth transition of command. Above, officers from the 143d ESC and 135th ESC gather for a transfer of authority ceremony held Oct. 24 in Camp
DID YOU KNOW?
a firm belief in and strict adherence to the Army Values will keep us trained and ready to successfully execute the mission that has been entrusted to us. 143d, let’s go to work!
ARMY PERFORMANCE TRIAD PROGRAM
Proper nutrition and sleep has the potential to optimize performance, mental and physical health. Your health directly impacts overall unit readiness and the resilience of the total force, as well as families and Army civilian teammates. The Army Performance Triad Program embraces these studies to motivate individuals and units to reach peak performance, readiness and health. The program’s guidebook includes tips, tactics and strategies to revitalize your workouts, revamp your diet and replenish your energy. For more information, visit http://www. armymedicine.army.mil/PerformanceTriad/. www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
7
FINANCING THE FUTURE
PHOTO AND STORY BY SPC AARON ELLERMAN Public Affairs Specialist, 143d ESC
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - With stringent budgets and financial instability plaguing economies worldwide, it is imperative the Army remains financially efficient, the 336th Financial Management Support Center, out of Lake Charles, La., is helping do just that during their deployment overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The 336th provides financial oversight at the command level and is responsible for overseeing disbursing, accounting and contracting procedures for its units spread throughout the Middle East. The 336th works closely with its subordinate units monitoring their financial operations and providing support when needed.
“Our job is to ensure our policies and the guidance we provide is being implemented among our subordinate units,” said Capt. Marsha Mcneil, chief of internal control, 336th Financial Management Support Center. “We do operation and courtesy reviews for our units and give them feedback based on our findings,” said Mcneil. “The biggest challenge we face is the need for experience. Soldiers may not have experienced operations at the command level and may need additional training with the Army systems; putting the right people in the right spots is critical,” said Mcneil One of the goals of the 336th is to help reduce the financial management footprint and become more efficient. “A big challenge for us is the reverse flow during the retrograde, managing the contracts and deterring waste, fraud, and abuse of funds on the battlefield,” said Sgt. First Class Chrysanthia Davis, a financial management technician and noncommissioned officer in charge of accounting. The 336th recently established a centralized commercial pay cell for an incoming financial unit at Doha, Qatar. The pay cell manages contracts in support of the theater draw down. After the 336th transfers operations over to the incoming unit it will continue to provide oversight of the operation. “Making sure our contractors get paid is very important,” said Davis. At home and abroad it is imperative that the 336th continues to ensure the units under its supervision continue to be good stewards of the taxpayer dollar. “It’s our mission to make sure we are spending the taxpayers’ money the way we should,” said Mcneil.
on the street 143d ESC Soldiers deployed to Kuwait were asked: “What do you do during your resiliency time while deployed?”
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Roger Londono Senior Ordnance Ground Maintenance Warrant Officer Fort Lauderdale, Fla. “During resiliency periods I enjoy working out. I am currently taking online classes to finish my degree while deployed.”
8
Maj. Alicia Rackston Secretary General Staff Headland, Ala.
Staff Sgt. Akil Listenbee Human Resources Specialist Orlando, Fla.
Spc. Brianna Falzone Paralegal Specialist Cederville, N.J.
“When I have free time I enjoy reading socially and professionally. I want to start a degree program while I’m here, [and] I look forward to continue doing Crossfit.”
“During my down time I take online college classes and work on online military courses. I also encourage my Soldiers to work on doing things that will help themselves after this deployment.”
“In my free time I enjoy going to the gym, running and playing soccer. I also try and volunteer when I can.”
ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC
Playsmartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brains and Brawn
Bring your brains and brawn to tackle our KIDS adventure course Nov. 10 at Al Lopez Park in Tampa, Fla.! This course will feature challenge games and obstacles such as climbing walls, mud runs, slime tunnels, tire rolls, low crawl spaces, sprint races,\ and other elements throughout the park. All obstacles are age appropriate and event staff will help participants as needed. Participants will receive tattoos, warrior paint and snacks. Medals are awarded to all who complete the course! Kids can take the course on solo or grab their friends and take the team challenge! Teams are encouraged to create and wear their own t-shirts and gear to compete! Prizes awarded for the best team name and gear! For event information, contact Darlene at 1-813-288-8258 or darlene@playsmart.org.
So you want to be a babysitter?
Join fellow aspirng babysitters at the Tyndall Air Force Youth Center Nov. 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for an interactive, hands-on program offered by the Tyndall YP Babysitting Program. Learn techniques that will allow you to become a confident babysitter and help assist other military families and their children. Youth ages 12 to 17 learn about the ages and stages of child growth and development, safety, food and nutrition, how to handle emergencies, appropriate activities to implement with children, and the business of babysitting. The registration cost is $30. For more information, contact the Tyndall Youth Programs at 1-850-283-4366.
143d ESC turns in excess vehicles
O
RLANDO, Fla. - The Army divestiture program is a crucial means of increasing readiness while equipping
units efficiently. This program balances the
PHOTO AND STORY BY SGT. ELISEBET FREEBURG Public Affairs Specialist, 204th PAD
quantity and quality of military equipment and vehicles, ultimately keeping costs down while sustaining force capabilities. During the months of August and September, dozens of Soldiers from units under the 143rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) worked to move about 50 vehicles marked for divestiture in convoys across the command’s area of operations to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. This was in addition to nearly 40 vehicles already shipped commercially to Army Support Activity Dix. “This is a great example of how our Army Reserve
Spc. Camille David, 414th Transportation Company, drives a 5-ton Army truck from Fort Bragg, N.C., Sept. 10 on a vehicle divestiture mission to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.
Soldier, given relatively short notice, steps up to the plate to meet a key function associated with U.S. Army strategic objectives,” said Foster Hudson, the 143rd’s ESC supervisory logistics management
said Spc. Camille David, a 414th Transportation
specialist.
type of vehicle and the number the unit has.
Command
Company motor transport operator, who drove one
After personnel from the Standard Army Retail
(Expeditionary) commands and controls more
of the divested vehicles to Army Support Activity
Supply System take possession of the vehicles at
than 10,000 Army Reserve troops throughout
Dix. “I hadn’t even seen these trucks before.
Army Support Activity Dix, there are numerous
the
Keeping the trucks running [during the mission]
places they could end up.
The
143rd
Southeast,
Sustainment
including
Florida,
Alabama,
South Carolina, and Mississippi. Formerly a
was a little challenging, because they were so old.”
transportation command, the 143rd ESC conducts
David has trained on and driven much newer
sustainment and retrograde missions during
vehicles, both at her advanced individual training
overseas operations. Here in the States, the 143rd
and during her recent deployment to Afghanistan. Although smaller items like clothing and office
ensures its soldiers remain ready. “In order to stay relevant, the Army Reserve has to go through the process, turn in vehicles, and get ready to receive new ones down the road,” said Lt. Col. Kevin F. Meisler, the 143rd ESC’s deputy G3 (support operations).
“Divestiture
assures
that the USAR remains a relevant force in the future and that our
[
“After they’re turned in, it’s up to the Army where they go,” said Hudson. “They’re sold to various agencies sometimes, like Homeland Security.” However, according to Hudson, vehicles are typically purchased by non-government agencies.
supplies are also divested once obsolete, the 143rd
Some vehicles may be recycled into the inventory
ESC’s focus has been upon vehicles due to the
to be used as training aids. Divested Army
“In order to stay relevant, the Army Reserve has to go through the process, turn in vehicles, and get ready to receive new ones down the road.”
]
equipment and vehicles can even be sold as scrap metal and later repurposed to make new items, like cars and toasters. Subordinate units within the 143d ESC involved in this mission include
soldiers are ready to participate in any operation
logistics and transportation nature of its missions.
the 518th Sustainment Brigade, 321st Sustainment
deemed necessary.”
About eight soldiers from the 143rd ESC’s support
Brigade, 894 Quartermaster Company, 641st
operations began planning this mission back in
Regional Support Group, 257th Transportation
August 2013.
Battalion, 414th Transportation Company, and
According to the latest Army Equipping Guidance, the Army must reduce the costs associated with maintaining and operating outdated equipment
“These items are periodically reviewed, usually
196th Transportation Company. The divestiture
and vehicles. Available funds will be used in
annually,” said Foster. “We didn’t do the selecting.
mission is scheduled for completion by the end of
procuring and maintaining modern equipment
USARC [U.S. Army Reserve Command] was the
September.
better suited to function and protect our troops on
one that managed that aspect.”
an ever-changing battlefield. “A lot of these trucks were really out of date,” 10
There are several determining factors to consider when selecting vehicles for divestiture, including
ESC TODAY • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC
The 143d ESC is part of the 377th Theater Sustainment Command, headquartered in Belle Chasse, La.
TAKING THE REINS
C
BY STAFF SGT. IAN SHAY Public Affairs Specialist NCO, 143d ESC
AMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – From the humid air of Orlando to the heat of the Texas Sun, Soldiers from the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) trained vigorously for their role in Operation Enduring Freedom. The training that took them from home station Orlando catapulted them through premobilization at Fort Hood, ultimately landing them here, ready to take the reins.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay
143dESC
See “RIP/TOA,” pg. 12 >>> http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
11
<<<“RIP/TOA,” CONTINUED “These are exciting times for the 143d and I am privileged to be a part of it,” said Command Sgt. Major Ferdinand Collazo Jr., command sergeant major, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). “Our Soldiers have put their hearts and souls into this mission and have embraced their responsibility. My excitement is beyond any description and I am proud to be a part of it.” This past Saturday marked the end of the 143d ESC’s RIP/TOA, otherwise known as a Relief in-Place or Transfer of Authority with the 135th ESC from Birmingham, Ala, who arrived here in May 2013. The 143d ESC arrived in mid-August for an extended pre-RIP stay that helped create a much smoother transfer than most incoming/outgoing units are afforded. “I believe that having the extended time was very helpful,” said Spc. Brittany N. Cavazos, petroleum supply specialist, 143d ESC. “I’ve had the pleasure of being able to conduct a lot of trial and errors, and I’ve been running reports alone for a little over a month, which has boosted my confidence.” The incoming commander, Col. Christopher Govekar, 143d ESC also commented on the benefits of an extended RIP-TOA. “The team had a unique opportunity to work together on an important planning project as well as spend more time than usual integrating into their sections in advance of the RIP-TOA,” said Govekar. “I’ve watched a group of
Incoming commander Col. Christopher P. Govekar, commanding officer, 143d ESC, cuts the ceremonial cake with the outgoing commander, Brig. Gen. Donald B. Tatum, commanding general, 135th ESC, an Alabama National Guard unit out of Birmingham, Ala. The 135th ESC officially transferred authority of logistical missions within U.S. Central Command’s area of operations to the 143d ESC Oct. 24 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.
individuals become a team through shared experience and challenge.”
Photo by Maj. John Adams
Although this RIP/TOA has been unique, it is a familiar experience for the two ESCs. In December 2009 the 135th ESC replaced the 143d ESC in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
143dESC
RIP/TOA ceremony here. “Thank you for being true professionals, for living up to the commitments we made a year ago, and for everything you’ve done,” said Tatum. “I can
“The 135th and the 143d have developed a tremendous working relationship. I think that for the most part we actually function as one unit and not two,” said Collazo.
honestly say, I have never been as proud to command an organization.” 135th Soldiers have made it easy for 143d Soldiers to take over the operation. “The 135th has been of great pleasure to work with from Class III to G6, said
During any RIP/TOA the importance of the outgoing unit cannot be understated as they help determine the transition and success for the Soldiers replacing them.
Cavazos. “They were very helpful and always made sure I was squared away and have done nothing less but set me up for success.” The relationship formed between the ESCs is not the only bond recently
The outgoing commander, Brig. Gen. Donald B. Tatum, commanding general, 135th ESC, honored his Soldiers for all their hard work during the
established, as the 143d continues relations with our Kuwaiti partners in the area, many who were in attendance during the RIP-TOA ceremony. Govekar addressed the audience during the ceremony, encouraging the unit’s commitment to the mission at hand while praising our Kuwaiti partners. “We’re also privileged to have our Kuwaiti partners in attendance to recognize your continued support that has made us so successful to date. Without your hospitality, our mission success could not be what it is today. Thank you so much for your professionalism, your expertise in what you bring to the ceremony and to our mission,” said Govekar. As the 143d prepares to take over operations here, a new era begins in Camp Arifjan. Expectations are high and the excitement is palpable. “The 143d has trained vigorously for months
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ian Shay
143dESC
Col. Christopher P. Govekar, commanding officer, 143d ESC, and Command Sgt. Major Ferdinand Collazo Jr., command sergeant major, 143d ESC, salute the colors during the RIP-TOA ceremony held Oct. 24 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. 12
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in order to take on this mission and I am confident that we will perform far beyond anybody’s expectation,” said Collazo.
General Discussion SERVICE 1909-1945
BORN 1885, DIED 1945
Mexican Revolution, World War I, World War II George S. Patton
writing and an adequate entrance exam
into German lines, where he was seriously
in 1904.
thigh.
score, he was recommended for West Point Struggles in mathematics struggles forced
knew the seriousness of the Second World
returning in the fall showed great academic
forces. Patton received the command of the
improvement. He would see continued success from then on at West Point, graduating 46th out of 103 cadets.
Patton was commissioned as a second
lieutenant in 1909. Seven years later he
would see combat for the first time under the command of General John Joseph “Black
Jack” Pershing. Patton’s first experience in combat would also mark the first motorized
attack in American military history. Patton led 10 Soldiers and two civilian guides under
G
born on his family’s ranch in San Gabriel, Calif., Nov. 11,
1885. Patton’s family was of Scots-Irish and English heritage with a long military lineage. Patton’s grandfather, George Smith Patton, commanded the 22nd Virginia Infantry during the Civil War and was killed during the Battle of Winchester in 1864 His great uncle, Waller Tazewell Patton, was killed in Pickett’s Charge during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. Patton’s father graduated from Virginia Military Institute but instead gave up his commission to pursue a career
the 6th Infantry Regiment in three dodge touring cars, in search of Mexican general Pancho Villa whose forces had crossed into
Columbus, N.M. March, 1916, killing 15 Americans. Patton’s Soldiers succeeded in killing Julio Cardenas, a captain of Pancho Villa, and two of his guards. Patton’s success
would garner him the nickname of “bandit
post under his protege Pershing left Patton
bored and thirsting for more combat. While in the hospital for jaundice, Patton met Col. Fox Conner, who pushed him to work with
focusing on great warriors and strategists
American Expeditionary Force Light Tank
04. He had trouble reading and writing but
excelled in uniform appearance and military drill. After continuous practice with letter
brigadier general in 1940. Less than a year later he would again be promoted to Major
General, becoming the commander of the entire 2nd Armored Division. After America entry into World War II in 1941, Patton would
lead Soldiers during multiple campaigns during in North Africa, Sicily, Normandy, France and Germany. In December 1944,
Patton’s Third Army engaged more than
250,000 German troops in the Battle of the
Bulge. Patton’s leadership skills allowed him to command six divisions simultaneously in the middle of winter and successfully relieve
Bastogne. He later remarked that the defense of Bastogne was his most outstanding achievement.
Patton’s forces would take over half a dozen
career as a Soldier cannot be understated
In 1917, Patton was promoted to Captain,
Patton was promoted to Major in 1918
Bonaparte. Patton attended VMI from 1903-
Armored Division and was promoted to
and left for the First World War . His new
had inspired George S. Patton to become
like Julius Caesar, Joan of Arc and Napoleon
newly formed 2nd Armored Brigade, 2nd
cities, killing almost 100,000 and capturing
tanks instead of infantry.
a war hero. He often read military history,
War and sought to build up the U.S. armored
killer.”
in law.
The stories of the heroic Pattons of old
After the invasion of Poland in 1939, Patton
Patton to repeat his first year, but he persisted
studying during the summer break and upon
eorge Smith Patton, Jr. was
wounded by a machine gun in his upper left
more than 140,000 German soldiers. Patton’s
and following his untimely death in Dec. 8,
1945, after severe injuries in an automobile
accident, his legacy still lives on as one of the greatest combat generals of all time.
Just two years after making first lieutenant
thanks to his efforts in establishing the
School. Later that year Patton was promoted
to lieutenant colonel and lead his tanks at the Battle of Saint-Mihiel. During the MeuseArgonne Offensive, Patton led his troop
of tanks through five miles of thick fog www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
13
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SERVICE UNDER THE SURFACE 86th Engineer Dive Team conducts salvage dive in the Persian Gulf
K
UWAITI NAVAL BASE, Kuwait - The diver’s bright yellow helmet is visible beneath the clear waters of the Persian Gulf as he swims up to the ramp where his team members wait.
His hands break the surface of the water first, as he hoists his body on the ramp and his team circles around him to help pull him out of the water and unto the vessel. They help him remove his helmet and take his air tank off his back as he begins unzipping his wet suit. The Army diver collapses into a fold-out chair provided for him while his fellow divers remove his shoes and peel his wet suit off his legs, congratulating him on a job well done and asking him questions about his dive. Although the diver is exhausted from hours spent below the surface patching equipment, he answers the questions with a slight smile on his face, knowing he has just passed his salvage diving qualification. Soldiers with the 86th Engineer Dive Team and the crew of the Churubusco, Landing Craft Utility 2013 with the Army Watercraft Company, 371st Sustainment Brigade, conducted salvage dive operations in the Persian Gulf near Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait Sept. 24. “For us in the dive field, you need to have the salvage level qualification within a year of being promoted to sergeant, [and] it’s something they need in order to progress in the dive field,” said Capt. Matthew Schiller, a Germantown, N.Y. native and the commanding officer for the 86th Engineer Dive Team. The divers who participated dove approximately 30 feet and, after
assessing the situation, they were supplied with the equipment needed and patched a vessel at the bottom of the Persian Gulf. “We put the diver in the water, they assess what they need, we make the patch on deck and then they repair it,” said Schiller. To earn their qualifications, the divers must successfully assess and repair the equipment without any aid and complete their task in only a couple of hours, said Staff Sgt. David Craig, a diving supervisor with the 86th Engineer Dive Team and a Honolulu, Hawaii native. “I assessed the hole to see if it could actually have a patch put on. It couldn’t so I had to actually cut the metal first in order to put the patch on,” said Spc. Thomas P. Hunnicutt, an Army diver with the 86th Engineer Dive Team and a Macon, Ga., Native. The exercise granted some of the newest members of the team an important qualification which ensures that all members of the team are certified to appropriate PHOTO AND STORY BY STAFF SGT. KIMBERLY HILL Public Affiairs NCO, 371st Sustainment Brigade
level in the dive field, said Craig. “Rank goes with rate in our field, said Craig. “The salvage diver level is a diver where I’m fully confident that they can go down by themselves, map out the scene and do all the work I need accomplished without direction from me. www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
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AROUND THE ESC
Photo by Staff Sgt. Kimberly Hill
371st Sustainment Brigade
Soldiers of the 86th Engineer Dive Team pull a diver out of the Persian Gulf during salvage dive operations near Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait, Sept. 24. The diver, Spc. Thomas P. Hunnicutt, a Macon, Ga., native, participated in the exercise to become salvage diver qualified.
Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV
143d ESC
As the sun illuminates Old Glory draped over the United States Army Vessel Churubusco, Spc. Jason R. Mullis (right), a watercraft operator with the 824th Transportation Company, takes the oath of reenlistment in front of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael J. Byrne (left), vessel master of the USAV Churubusco. Mullis and four other Soldiers from various units reenlisted during separate ceremonies held Oct. 14 on the main decks of the Churubusco and its sister vessel, the USAV Five Forks, while anchored in Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait. Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV
143d ESC
Spc. Colin Bucko, a paralegal specialist with the 143d ESC, dribbles the ball around his Kuwaiti opponent during an friendly international match between the Camp Arifjan Football Club and the Kuwait National Guard held Oct. 7 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Despite impressive defensive stands and offensive plays by Bucko and his comrades, the Kuwait National Guard secured its perfect, seven-game winning streak with a score of 6-3. 16
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AROUND THE ESC Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV
143d ESC
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Joseph Claflin (left), a marine operations officer with the 143d ESC, gives a tour of the engine room on the United States Army Vessel Charles P. Gross Oct. 14 while anchored at Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait. The USAV Chales P. Gross, a Besson class logistics support vessel, can load up to 900 short tons of cargo and vehicles from its bow and stern ramps and transport them thousands of miles to nearly any port, harbor or beach.
Photo by 1st Lt. Nicole Rossman
Photo by Staff Sgt. Joel M. Gottke
Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman
143d ESC
Noncommissioned officers from the 143d ESC join their fellow NCOs assigned under the 1st Theater Sustainment Command for a three-mile run held Oct. 15 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The run was part of an NCO development session conducted by Command Sgt. Maj. Tobin, command sergeant major for the 1st TSC.
143d ESC
Soldiers from the 95th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Company conduct a CBRN casualty decontamination exercise Oct. 12 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait.
371st Sustainment Brigade
Sporting signature blue vests from the Red Cross, Soldiers from the 143d ESC pose for a group photo during the “Akron Marathon Camp Arifjan Kuwait Shadow” marathon held Sept. 28 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The 371st Sustainment Brigade, an Army National Guard unit based out of Springfield, Ohio, organized the shadow run that featured a 5-kilometer run, a 12-mile relay, a 13.1-mile half marathon and a 26.2-mile marathon. From left to right: Master Sgt. Alejandro J. Arroyo, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joseph P. Phoebus, Staff Sgt. David C. Montalvo, Sgt. Louis A. Ramos, Jr., Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, Spc. Brittany Covazos and Spc. Joanna Prokop. www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
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AROUND THE ESC
Photo by Sgt. Elisebet Freeburg
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
204th PAD
Specialists Camille David and Jerome Grimes of the 414th Transportation Company look over a schedule before departing Sept. 10 on a vehicle divestiture mission to Joint Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst, N.J.
Photo by 1st Lt. Nicole Rossman
Photo by Staff Sgt. James Burroughs
135th ESC
Major General Kurt Stein, commander of the 1st Theater Sustainment Command, and Brig. Gen. Donald Tatum, commander of the 135th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, cut the ribbon during a grand opening ceremony held Oct. 1 at Kuwait’s Theater Gateway in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. They were joined by Col. Gregory Robinette, commander of the 371st Sustainment Brigade and Lt. Col. Christopher Pfaff, commander of the 138th Theater Gateway. The geateway was relocated in a move that saves the government more than $2 million per month. 18
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143d ESC
Wearing an authentic helmet, flame resistant suit and air tank, Spc. Brittany Cavazos, a petroleum supply specialist with the 143d ESC, flips a tire during the Army Support Group-Kuwait Firefighter Challenge held Oct. 6 in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Cavazos won first place in the women’s division by completing a series of timed events that tested a firefighter’s strength, speed and endurance. Master Sgt. Johnny F. Allen with the 143d ESC’s Support Operations’ Distribution Integration Branch took first place in the men’s division.
AROUND THE ESC
Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman
143d ESC
Soldiers from the 143d ESC show off the shirts they received for participating in the Army 10-Miler shadow run held at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The Army 10-Miler is the second largest race of its kind in America and has inspired thousands of people to participate in shadow runs conducted at U.S. military installations around the world. Photo by Staff Sgt. Kimberly Hill
371st Sustainment Brigade
Soldiers of the 86th Engineer Dive Team speak with a diver before he goes underwater during salvage dive operations near Kuwait Naval Base, Kuwait, Sept. 24, 2013. The diver, Spc. Thomas P. Hunnicutt, a Macon, Ga., native, participated in the exercise to become salvage diver qualified.
Photo by Spc. Aaron Ellerman
143d ESC
Captain Thomas Dyer (left), Chaplain, 25th Signal Battalion, 160th Signal Brigade, leads a Zen meditation session Oct. 1 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Dyer became the Army’s first Buddhist chaplain in 2008.
Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tim Lawn
1st TSC
Lieutenant Colonel Nelsa Agosto with the 1st theater Sustainment Command hugs a young Afghan girl at the Afghan Women’s Bazaar held Oct. 23 in New Kabul Compound, Afghanistan. www.flickr.com/143dESC • http://www.facebook.com/143dESC • November 2013
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SAFETY It’s your choice BY MARK DALY
W
Safety Director, 143d ESC
e all make mistakes and bad choices, and we will continue to do so. Though some my fellow safety officers see mistakes as “job security,” we’re supposed to learn from the mistake and not repeat it. This is one of the core functions of Safety. We investigate to find the root cause and pass this knowledge onto you so this accident is not duplicated. The root cause is the reason for the accident. I listed three system inadequacies, readiness shortcomings and root causes as to why the error, failure or malfunction occurred: 1. Leader failure 2. Training failure 3. Individual failure I’m going to focus on individual failure. Table B-5 of the “Department of the Army Pamphlet 385–40: Army Accident Investigations and Reporting” states that individual failure “occurs when the individual knows the standard and is trained to standard but elected not to follow the standard.” The key phrase is “elected not to follow,” meaning professionally trained Soldiers choose to break the law (Many if not all safety rules are federal law, and the Department of Defense is not exempt from them). In doing so, they jeopardize their health, career, financial stability and the Army mission, just to name a few. 20
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What qualifies as an individual failure? Distracted driving, no seat belt, no helmet, no insurance, muzzle sweep, not properly preparing for missions, not hydrating, stretching, or sleeping, and dependence on energy drinks or herbal supplements. Energy drinks and herbal supplements? There are no laws prohibiting the use of these! First red flag: these drinks and supplements are not regulated by the Food & Drug Administration, meaning you might test positive on the next urinalysis. The FDA is investigating deaths and heart attacks where energy drinks were cited as a cause. Do not mistake individual failure with leadership failure. Noncommissioned officers and officers are managers, not parents. Do they really need to state the obvious? In closing, mistake happen and will continue to happen. Just don’t make the same one twice. Do not confuse individual failure with leadership failure. Individual failure is a conscience choice with disturbing consequences. Remember, you are a highly trained Soldier, the best in the world. You are held to a higher standard and expected to exceed it. However, you are not invincible. Know your limits. We have lost very good Soldiers to poor decisions. It’s your choice.
ALWAYS TEXTING
https://safety.army.mil
WEARING
BY MAJ. SANDY GOSCINIAK Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, 143d ESC
Taking ACTION
requires medical attention but not emergency care, help the victim get to a medical provider as soon as possible. b. Offer to stay with the victim. Victims are often reluctant to be alone after enduring an attack. Accompany the victim to the hospital or other places if he or she so desires.
Intervene, Act and Motivate (I. A.M.) Strong is the Army’s campaign to combat sexual assaults by engaging all Soldiers in preventing sexual assaults
4. If the attack took place outside of military jurisdiction, assist the victim to report the sexual assault to law enforcement (call 911 inside the U.S.).
before they occur. This month we’ll look at ways we can “ACT” by preventing
a. If someone you know has questions about reporting the crime and
sexual harassment and sexual assault from occurring and helping someone
available options, getting information from Safe Helpline can help. Find
who has been sexually assaulted.
help at www.safehelpline.org or call 1-877-995-5247. The phone number
Sexual assault can be prevented. As Soldiers, our core values demand that
is the same inside the U.S. or via the DSN.
we act. There are no passive bystanders. We must protect our team members.
b. Safe Helpline can also connect you with the Sexual Assault Response
When you see or sense the risk of sexual harassment or sexual assault, it is
Coordinator on your installation/base, and other military and civilian
your duty to take ACTION and protect your fellow Soldiers.
resources in your area. To find this information you can search online or text your zip code or installation/base name to 55247 (inside the U.S.) or
How to help someone who is sexually assaulted
1. Ensure that the victim is at a safe location away from the perpetrator. If not, take the victim to a safe place. 2. Support the victim — be there and listen.
Unrestricted Reports allow the victim to participate in the military criminal justice process. b. Restricted Reports are kept confidential, and military chain of
a. Avoid being judgmental, keep from second-guessing and resist placing
command and law enforcement are not notified.
any blame on the victim.
c. Note: There may be some exceptions and limitations. For example,
b. Be patient. Remember, it will take the victim some time to deal with
when the victim reports the crime to someone in the chain of command,
the crime.
a Restricted Report may no longer be an option. If you are in the
c. Other than safety and health-related questions, try to refrain from
individual’s chain of command, you may have to report the matter. To
asking for details about the incident. Show interest in what the victim says
learn more about reporting options, visit www.MYDUTY.mil. Please see
and ask what you can do to help the victim.
your SARC or Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocate
3. If there is an immediate threat to the victim’s safety, contact military law enforcement or local police immediately. Work with law enforcement and the victim to protect the victim from the perpetrator and others acting on the perpetrator’s behalf.
22
call 1-202-470-5546 (outside the U.S.). 5. Most military members have options about how to report the crime.
‘
for more guidance. Search the Safe Helpline Database to find the SARC nearest you. 6. Help to empower the victim. a. Rape and sexual assault are crimes that take away an individual’s power.
a. If the victim requires emergency medical care, call 911 (inside the U.S.)
It is important not to compound this experience by putting pressure on
or your installation/base’s emergency medical care services. If the victim
the victim to do things that he or she is not ready to do yet.
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