3rd Ed., Vol. 1: Sept. 2012
1s
a l r v y a B C r r i i g A ad t Commanding Officer Col. Cory A. Mendenhall
e
Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Amagliani
Public Affairs OIC Capt. Joshua Amstutz Public Affairs NCOIC/Editor Public Affairs Layout/Design Staff Sgt. Joseph Armas Sgt. Richard Wrigley In accordance with AR 360-1 and the regulations set forth by the U.S. Army Public Affairs Center, the Air Cav Journal is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of Air Cav Journal are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, the 1st Cavalry Division or the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade. All editorial content of Air Cav Journal is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade Public Affairs Office. The 1st Air Cavalry Brigade Public Affairs Office is located in Camp Marmal, Afghanisian
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Commander’s Corner physically tough as well as tactically and technically proficient. Everything we do is a training opportunity – we will take no day for granted in preparing for future conflict. – Maintaining: We are only as good as our capability today. We must be physically, mentally, and spiritually prepared for the demands of our everyday challenges and the rigors of future conflict. – Caring: Our Soldiers and Families are our most precious asset. We must understand their challenges and provide support when needed. We must communicate with our Families to Greetings to all Warriors past and ensure they understand the wealth present, of programs available to meet their needs. I am humbled, proud, and excited – Safety: Safety first in our personto be your 1st Air Cavalry Brigade al and professional lives. Always (1ACB) commander. I would also choose the hard right over the easy like to recognize our new 1ACB wrong. Nothing we do in training is Command Team: the brigade com- worth an injury, loss of life or damagmand sergeant major, CSM Chris ing equipment. Amagliani and the command chief warrant officer, CW5 Troy DeGolyThe 1ACB has completed redeer. Both come with a wealth of ex- ployment operations and successperience and are committed to taking fully moved the majority of our Solcare of our Soldiers and our Families diers and equipment from West Fort while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. Hood to Hood Army Airfield. It is Since I was a company commander important to note that the brigade has in Korea in 1995, my philosophy has assumed responsibility for the 1st not changed. Our Number 1 Priority Cavalry Division’s first Grey Eagle is Taking Care of Soldiers. We will accomplish through five imperatives: leading, training, maintaining, caring, and safety. – Leading: Our leaders will provide quality & caring leadership. We will motivate, influence, mentor, coach, teach, and set the example. We will enforce the Army Standard. – Training: We will train our Soldiers so that they are mentally and
Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) company , F/227th. The majority of the unit is deployed to Afghanistan and the unit’s rear detachment has been assigned to 1-227th Aviation Regiment. In the future, F/227th will remain at West Fort Hood upon their redeployment. Our units are already preparing for several training events starting with a small arms gunnery in October, an aerial gunnery in November, and three unit rotations to the combat readiness centers at the National Training Center and Joint Readiness Training Center starting in January 2013. The 1ACB’s capstone exercise will be our aviation training exercise in July 2013 at Fort Rucker, Alabama in preparation for future missions. The year 2013 looks very bright for the future of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade’s Soldiers and Families here at the Great Place. Thank you all for your past and present service to our great nation and your future contributions to keeping the 1st Air Cav Army Strong. Live the Legend – AIR CAV! Col. Cory A. Mendenhall 1ACB, Commanding
csM’s Corner Soldiers, Family and friends of the ly happy to be back. We look for1st ACB, ward to having the chance to serve the brigade once again. My prioriLet me begin by expressing what ties are to support the commander’s an honor and privilege it is to have objectives, develop leaders and Solbeen selected to serve as the com- diers at all levels while focusing on mand sergeant major of the 1st Air preparing for any future operation. Cavalry Brigade. I am humbled to I will always do my best to do what have this opportunity to serve the is right: treat others as I would like Soldiers and Families of this bri- to be treated. I will always try to be gade. accessible, approachable, and availMy wife, Sherry, and I are extreme- able and to set a good example for
all Soldiers assigned to the 1ACB. To the Families of the brigade, I would like to thank you for the untiring support that you provide to your Soldier. Without it, it would be extremely difficult to accomplish all that we do. Once again, it is my pleasure to be here and serve all the Soldiers and Families of the brigade. Warrior 9
ccwo’s Corner Warriors, On behalf of my wife Lisa, and myself, we are proud and honored to be part of the Warrior Team. As the command chief warrant officer of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade and a member of the command group, it is my mission to advise and assist the
commander in the following areas: unit pride and morale, warrant officer manning, warrant officer leadership and professional development. Also, it is my job to teach, coach and mentor the warrant officers in the brigade to increase competence, efficiency, effectiveness and professionalism.
Finally, my goal is to represent the brigade as a professional and assist in establishing standards and discipline for all of the brigade’s Soldiers. Respectfully, CW5 Troy A. DeGolyer Warrior 7
A TIME OF CH
New leadership for the 1s Story By: Staff Sgt. Joseph Armas Photos By: Sgt. Richard Wrigley
HANGE:
st ACB
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he 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, changed command during a ceremony Aug. 2 here at Cooper Field. Col. John Novalis, from Williamsport, Pa., relinquished command to Col. Cory Mendenhall, from Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Novalis commanded the brigade during its recent deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. As he addressed those in attendance, he took the opportunity to reflect on his time as commander of the 1st ACB. “Commanding this brigade has been the highlight of my professional career,” said Novalis. Throughout his speech, he gave credit to his strength in God, his family and the Soldiers of the 1st ACB for the success the brigade achieved during its deployment to OEF. He thanked the brigade’s Soldiers for the sacrifices they made this past year, as the brigade provided coalition ground forces with aviation assets across four regional commands in Afghanistan. “There’s no higher honor to command Soldiers, especially when we are a nation at war” said Novalis. “You make me proud to wear this uniform and the ‘First Team’ patch.” During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Glen Vela, from Dallas, transferred responsibility for the brigade to Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Amagliani, from Hartford, Conn. Novalis thanked Vela for his friendship and the counsel he provided as the brigade’s senior enlisted advisor. He also gave his best wishes to the incoming command team. “I know you both will take this
formation on to greater accomplishments. You’ll carry on the legacy of discipline, caring, trust and mission execution that makes our Army strong,” said Novalis. Maj. Gen. Anthony Ierardi, commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, presided over the ceremony as the reviewing officer. He gave his thoughts on the accomplishments of the brigade’s outgoing command team. “[Novalis and Vela] inspired and led the brigade’s troops in the toughest conditions,” said Ierardi. “They gave selflessly to this unit, placing mission and their Soldiers above everything else.” Ierardi also acknowledged Mary Novalis and Kathy Vela for the contributions they made to the brigade, the division and the local Ft. Hood community. “Over the course of their husbands’ careers, they have given their hearts and souls to the Soldiers and families of the Army, balancing this with the demands of their own families,” said Ierardi. The warrior brigade is better off as a result of the sacrifices these two women have made during the past two years, he added.
As for the incoming command team, Mendenhall previously served as the deputy chief of staff for Central Command in Qatar. Amagliani is no stranger to the 1st ACB, having served as the command sergeant major for the 615th Aviation Support Battalion during the brigade’s last deployment to Iraq in 2009 and 2010. Mendenhall began his speech by speaking directly to the outgoing commander and his spouse, Mary. “Your efforts over the last two years…building, deploying and re-deploying this brigade have left a legacy that will resonate with future leaders of our Army for years to come,” said Mendenhall. “You have made a positive difference in so many lives. Brooke and I wish you both the best.” As he concluded his remarks, Mendenhall addressed the 1st ACB troopers who now fall under his command. “To the warrior Soldiers on the parade field who are willing to answer the nation’s call and pay the price for freedom, I’m extremely proud to serve with you as Warrior Six,” said Mendenhall.
New housing f newly returned By: Sgt. Richard Wrigley
for d Soldiers
L
ong have the Soldiers of the 615th Aviation Support Battalion heard of rumors and promises to be moved out of their previously old barracks on Ft. Hood and in to new housing. When the 615th left for Afghanistan over a year ago along with the rest of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, the Soldiers left their existing housing with hopes of returning to new fresh housing. Yet when they came back from Afghanistan the Soldiers were directed back in to barracks similar to the ones they had previously left. However, hardly a month after their return, the Soldiers of the 615th ASB were issued new key cards to their new rooms, becoming the first battalion of the 1st ACB to move into the newly built barracks facilities here July 20. “It seems that they are very eager to move into their new rooms,” said Sgt. Kevin Schoonmaker, a native of Van Etten, New York, and an AH-64 Apache helicopter mechanic for Company D, 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st ACB, who is currently filling a full time position as a barracks manager within the 1st Sergeants Barracks Management Program here. Schoonmaker spent all day signing over keys for the new rooms to the expectant Sol-
diers. One of the Soldiers he issued a new key to was Pfc. Ishmael El, from Philadelphia, a motor transport operator for Company A, 615th ASB. El was really happy to be finally in his new room. “There’s a stove, the bathrooms nice, even the closet looks better than the old barracks,” elaborated El. Schoonmaker explained that while the barracks were brand new and completely furnished, having the new rooms in top condition is not the only benefit the Soldiers have with these new barracks. “I think one of the best parts about this transition is that these Soldiers are finally getting a place they can take a breather in, just kick back and relax a little bit, and not have to move around anytime soon,” Schoonmaker added. And it seems that at least one Soldier plans to do just that. “Man this place is like a hotel room, there’s a lot more space here than my old room, you can do a lot of things with this room,” said El with a sly grin.
1-227 Attack Attack Team, August marked an outstanding month in 1-227 ARB. Following the retask organization to an AH-64D pure formation in July, the Battalion set its sights on reset operations, developing systems, and the development of our “way ahead” through long-term training planning. I am truly proud of each and every Attack Soldier for their dedication and professionalism during this challenging time. Our primary focus has been on the individual Soldier and their families and ensuring that we foster a “Family First” environment. Our primary enabler to accomplish this goal was the Army’s Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC) attached to the Battalion throughout the month of August. The MFLC mission, nested with the Battalion, focuses on showing care and concern for everyone inside our formation and their families, identifying warning signs, and ensuring that those who need assistance are provided the opportunity to access resources inside and outside the Battalion footprint. This will help us become a resilient organization and focus on future operations. I look forward to seeing our unit grow and develop in the coming months. Lt. Col. Cain Baker 1-227 ARB, Commanding Attack!
2-227 lobos officers and NCOs of the Lobos conducted a battalion hail and farewell at the Dead Fish Grill, where we recognized departing and arriving leaders of our organization. Our chaplain, Capt. James Ward, has coordinated multiple spiritual fitness events, to include a recent Greetings Friends and Family of three-day Strong Bonds marriage the Lobos! retreat at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Spa and Resort where 19 It’s been an exciting first two families enjoyed the beautiful remonths commanding the amaz- sort while strengthening their faming Soldiers of 2nd Battalion. Our ily ties. We look forward to conbattalion command team – CSM tinued Strong Bonds events in the Smoots, CW4 Gunter, and I have near future. watched in awe as our stellar LoOn August 15, Charlie Combos Troopers have completed rein- pany executed a change of comtegration activities and initiated actions to build our battalion’s combat power and train for future missions. During these two months we have supported VIP air missions of our division commanding general and conducted sling load and MEDEVAC training supporting the Air Assault School and the 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Aircrews from ev- mand honoring the commitment of ery company have sacrificed time MAJ Nate Forrester and his wife, away from home to recover aircraft Paige, and welcoming the comfrom as far away as Fort Drum, mand team of MAJ Mike Allums NY, Fort Lewis, WA, and Hunter and his wife Becky. We will conArmy Airfield in Savannah, GA. duct changes of command for Fox We greatly appreciate the tireless Company and Bravo Company efforts of our Lobos Troopers! on 13 and 14 September, respecOur focus on Families and Sin- tively. Our Soldiers have excelled gle Soldier events has afforded us in leader development and prothe opportunity to hold numerous fessional courses throughout the company and battalion level or- summer, and we’ve had the pleaganizational days and social gath- sure of promoting and re-enlisting erings. We enjoyed a battalion dozens of Lobos Troopers in reorganizational day at the Belton cent weeks. Fox Company’s PFC Lake Outdoor Recreational Area, Aul graduated from Fort Hood’s where families enjoyed the beach Air Assault School in July, and and water activities at Lake Bel- we’ve graduated numerous NCOs ton, catered BBQ, as the Soldiers from the Warrior and Advanced competed in sporting events which Leader’s Courses, including SSG resulted in Fox Company winning Brian Miller from B Company who the Lobos Commander’s Cup. The was the ALC Distinguished Honor
Graduate. On Sept. 14, the Lobos will join 19 of our warrant officers during Warrant Officer Advanced Course graduation on Fort Hood. Congratulations to every Lobos Trooper who has achieved success in their professional development! The Lobos continue to strengthen ourselves physically and mentally, preparing ourselves and our Families for future mission assignments and contingency operations. The battalion command team proudly observes the dedication and commitment of every Lobos Trooper and Family member working selflessly to improve their fighting position. Lobos Troopers will participate in every upcoming major training event on the calendar for the Warrior Brigade, including November gunnery exercises, three Combat Training Center rotations, high altitude training, and certification training exercises to validate our readiness for future contingency missions. We will weave the strength and resilience of our Families throughout these upcoming months through continued Strong Bonds events, battalion functions, and a holiday formal planned for December. I remain humbled and proud to stand amongst the Soldiers and Families of the Lobos! LOBOS! LTC Jason B. Blevins Commander, 2-227th Regiment
Aviation
By: Sgt. Richard Wrigley
W
ith a thunderous crack, a bright neongreen soft ball goes sailing through the air over the flight line at Hood Army Airfield, Aug. 17. Spc. Karah VanMetre, from Cleveland, Texas, a petroleum supply specialist assigned to E Company, 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, was showing the rest of the battalion her batting prowess during a ceremony that recognized her for being selected to try out for the All Army women’s softball team. For VanMetre, a distinctive path has led her to this rare opportunity. “I’ve been playing since I was in the sixth grade [and] I’ve always loved it. I played all the sports, but I was always best at softball,” said VanMetre. VanMetre said she had great success early on, making the varsity team throughout her high school career and becoming the first student from her school to get a college scholarship for softball. However, things took a turn for the worse when she was injured towards the end of her high school career. What was supposed to be a minor injury was misdiagnosed and turned out to be much more serious than the initial diagnosis had revealed. VanMetre said it took a couple of years and a total of three surgeries for her to fully recover.
After she recovered from her final surgery, VanMetre decided to join the Army. She did not expect to ever play softball at the level she had in the past ever again, she added. It was during her recent deployment to Afghanistan that this changed. While deployed, VanMetre worked side by side fueling aircraft with Sgt. Clifford Harris Jr., from Odessa, Texas, an ammunition specialist for E Company. Harris said he learned of her past exploits playing softball after spending long days working together on a forward and arming refueling point in eastern Afghanistan. “When she told me how much she used to play and how much she used to enjoy it, well I just thought she might have a chance, so I suggested she submit a packet for the All Army team,” Harris said. Harris continued, “She is a bright, ambitious soldier; a hard worker, quick learner, and a team player. She’s also a fierce athlete ... it’s no surprise to me that she was selected.” While it may not be a surprise to Harris that VanMetre was selected, for others the shock still lingers. “It’s so exciting,” VanMetre said. “I can’t believe I actually made it this far to get picked.” Regardless of the shock, VanMetre will leave in the next few days to go to Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., for the team’s tryout camp. Judging by the outpouring of support and well wishes at the ceremony in her honor, it seems all of 1-227th ARB’s thoughts will go with her as well.
3-227 spearhead Spearhead Families and Friends,
pleasure. These gatherings give us the chance to discuss the philosophy It is a real privilege to be writ- and priorities of the battalion as we ing this letter to all of you! On be- look at the next two years together. half of my wife, Christina, and our We talk about the strength of discifamily, thank you all for the warm pline and standards we hold as an First Team/ Warrior welcome to assault aviation battalion, but more the Great Place. On July 2, we joined CSM Schley and his wife, Vita, and their family as the Spearhead command team. The ceremony was truly one of a kind, and the Spearhead troopers on Cooper Field looked phenomenal! As many of you know, the battalion just returned from an incredibly successful deployment to Afghanistan and with the reorganization in July, we are a pure assault helicopter battalion for the first time in nearly 18 months. The Soldiers are excited about being back with their Families, back at the Great Place, and back together as a formation. Their high morale and esprit de corps is infectious and is invaluable as we than that the professional values enter an intensive refit cycle with we hold dearest: our commitment high personnel turnover. to caring for people – Soldiers, Meeting with all the Spearhead Families, and community members troopers and some of their Families alike; our responsibility to maintain over the last 60 days has been a real our equipment readiness through
accountability and ensuring its serviceability; and our dedication to training in our profession and pursuit of excellence in employing our systems anywhere in the world. The teamwork and trust we develop makes Spearhead not just a professional and formidable organization, but a premiere assault helicopter battalion in our Army! As we continue building the team, we look forward to some very rigorous and challenging air assault training. We invite you to stop by some of our virtual footprint and see the great things our troopers do over the next several months: http://www.hood. army.mil/1stcavdiv/ units/1acb/3-227/ Default.asp https://www. f a c e b o o k . com/3227thAHB. We anticipate some very exciting events as we continue to prepare the unit to deploy again in support of Operation Enduring Freedom or any other contingency mission we are called upon to perform. Spearhead 6
4-227 guns Soldiers, Famlies and Friends of the tributor and member of a close-knit 4-227th Guns, team, sharing a common goal and objective. We will relentlessly ATI am honored to be in command of TACK the enemy when called upon, 4-227th ARB “GUNS ATTACK.” focus on maintenance to facilitate This is a fantastic organization preparedness, and take care of each and since taking command on July other always (Families and Soldiers 2nd, CSM Hurst and I have been alike). In order to make this vision impressed by the tremendous leaders, Soldiers, and Families who consistently work to better themselves and the unit. It is a privilege to serve as the commander of such a fine battalion. This battalion carries a lot of momentum from the last deployment into the upcoming training cycle and future deployment. We must capitalize on all lessons learned and ensure we include the good and the bad to help us successfully negotiate the path ahead. Over the past two months, I shared my vision with every Soldier in 4-227th. It is critical that this becomes a shared vision for the battalion to succeed. My vision is that the 4-227th ARB will be the most a reality, I expect every member of technically and tactically profi- 4-227 to conduct him or herself as cient, well run, and team oriented a professional, whether in the air or Attack Reconnaissance Battalion on the ground, on duty or off. in the Army. Every Soldier, NCO, As part of this vision, I want to and Officer in this unit will feel as reiterate to all of our Soldiers and though he or she is an active con- Family members that it truly takes
a TEAM effort to be successful. It takes a TEAM effort to establish an environment where we take care of one another and are capable of balancing Family and work. Thanks for what you (our Soldiers) do on a daily basis and thank you (spouses and Families) for allowing us to serve as best we can. Since July, the battalion conducted a battalion and brigade run, hail and farewell, held a Chili Cook-off, and gathered for a competitive organizational physical training event that was followed by a breakfast. We’ve also reenlisted exemplary Soldiers, presented Air Medals, ARCOMs, AAMs, and four AAAA Order of Saint Michael Medals. It is the utmost importance to recognize effort, performance, contributions to the TEAM (BN, BDE, DIV, etc.), and to always take care of one another. CSM Hurst and I look forward to the coming months as we train hard and provide 1st Cavalry Division and 1st Air Cavalry Brigade with exceptional Attack and Reconnaissance! GUNS ATTACK! LTC Hank Perry and CSM Zach Hurst
Soldier gives back to his c By: Sgt. Richard Wrigley
s community
“I
t's about giving back to a community that has given so much to you,” said Sgt. Johnny Merical, a native of Dallas Center, Iowa, a CH-47 Chinook helicopter repairer for B Company, 615th Aviation Support Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. Merical headed a fundraiser to provide school supplies for the Mae Stevens Elementary school in Copperas Cove, Texas. For more than a month he collected donations. With help from other soldiers in his platoon, he purchased school supplies and presented the donations at Mae Stevens Elementary School, Aug. 22. After Merical and his fellow soldiers set up a display of all of the new school supplies in the school's gymnasium, members of the community, along with children, parents and school faculty came by to hear Merical explain why he did all of this. Merical told the people in attendance about his time in Copperas Cove and how the community had supported him. "I've been here almost six years, and have lived here the whole time. I'm leaving now, but the community has supported me whenever I needed it, and the school district really looked out for my family when they allowed my children to stay in Mae
Stevens even though the re-zoning could have forced them to go to a different school," Merical said. While this is the biggest volunteer effort that Merical has undertaken, he is no stranger to the selfless service of volunteer work, said Capt. Nicholaus Cortez, originally from Iowa City, Iowa, a platoon leader in B Company, 615th ASB. "He's done a lot of volunteering for the unit and the surrounding
community. When I think of Sgt. Merical, I think of selfless service," added Cortez. "He is also a very disciplined,” Cortez said. “In my opinion his professionalism and work ethic are unparalleled at his level within the platoon.” The students and family members of the school were in dire need of the supplies, which was also a main factor behind the decision to donate specifically to Mae Stevens Elementary, added Merical.
Joe Burns, the superintendent for the Copperas Cove Independent School District, echoed Merical’s sentiment. "About 63 percent of this campus' student population consists of kids who receive free or reduced lunches. This means that a lot of the families that have kids who attend here simply don't have the resources to provide [the children] with all the things they need for school," Burns said. "This donation Sgt. Merical put together ... will go a long, long way to meeting the needs of those families," Burns added. Another official from the Coppers Cove ISD talked about how the results of the fund raiser will benefit the students as they begin this school year. "Many of these students are used to getting handme-down materials. Just imagine how happy these students will be to have a brand-new notebook or binder this year," said Rick Kirkpatrick, the deputy superintendant for Copperas Cove ISD. Merical said he hopes that his and his fellow soldiers’ efforts to help the families of the local community will have a lasting impact. "This is going to help the kids, this is going to help the families ... My family and I are about to leave, but the good that this has done for the community will last much longer than that," said Merical.
615th Sold keeps up By: Sgt. Richard Wrigley
dier the fight
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The 615th Aviation Support Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, is full of Soldiers whose jobs are to help and support a larger entity. One Soldier of the 615th ASB is unique however in his role in supporting Fort Hood’s Combatives team as well. A Fort Worth, Texas native, Sgt. James Bruner, an AH-64D Apache helicopter armament, electrical and avionics systems repairer for B Company, 615th ASB, has yet again helped the Fort Hood Combatives Team with a victory in this year’s 2012
“I’ve never seen the man unable to complete any task that was set before him,” Staff Sgt. Nicholas Arsenault said. “He’s a hard worker and very dedicated to whatever he sets out to do.” Arsenault is Bruner’s section sergeant within the Armament Platoon and has known Bruner almost the entirety of Bruner’s career, having been stationed with him in South Korea, Fort Bragg, N.C., and now here. While they were stationed in South Korea, Bruner won the 8th Army Wrestling tournament in his weight class. At this time Bruner was also introduced to Army Combatives. “I wrestled in high school and being on the All Army Wrestling team was always one of
Army Combatives Championship at the Abrams Physical Fitness Center here, July 28. Bruner’s leadership has noted that his career so far has been one of dedication and drive for those things he holds important.
my goals,” Bruner said. However, he came to have a greater appreciation for combatives when he was introduced to the sport. He liked that there were some similarities in the two sports, yet he also liked the
increased competitiveness of combatives as well as what he believes to be a real need for training in combatives due to the closequarters nature of today’s fight abroad, explained Bruner. “When I first started in combatives there were no weight classes,” he said. “I think it was when I beat someone more than 100 lbs. heavier than me in my first tournament by having better technique and submitting him that I really started getting into combatives.” According to Arsenault, he’s been a tenacious fighter ever since. “I took Army Combatives Level 1 and Level 2 when we were both at Bragg, and I thought I was pretty good at the time,” said Arsenault. “But he still kicked my butt.” “I outweigh him by at least 40 lbs., but I’m still no match for him on the mat,” he added. Sgt. 1st Class Jesse Thorton, the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the Fort Hood Combatives team, Headquarters Support Company, III Corps Special Troops Battalion, met Bruner at the Fort Hood Tournament last year when they competed against each other. “You learn a lot about someone when you fight them,” Thorton said. “After the fight we talked and I learned even more about him.” Bruner told me all about how he loves his family and the military. He also impressed upon me how much he wanted to represent his unit and how he was determined to work hard at achieving his goals, continued Thorton. “After that I took Sgt. Bruner under my wing and became a kind of mentor for him,” he said. Soon after that Thorton had Bruner join the Fort Hood Combatives team and Bruner began training for last year’s Army Combatives Championship. The 1st ACB was good enough to let me deploy three months later than the rest of the troops so I could finish my training, and represent the unit and Fort Hood in last year’s Army Combatives Championship, said Bruner.
“I did pretty well,” he said. “I placed fifth overall [in my weight class].” However, even after doing so well in the championship, all his thoughts were on rejoining his Soldiers out in Afghanistan, said Thorton. “Actually, he felt guilty because he wasn’t out there,” Thorton added. It took a few conversations for him to come to terms with the fact that he still had an opportunity to go out there and help his unit by playing a significant role in the deployment with the rest of his unit in Afghanistan, said Thorton. Bruner did deploy shortly after his participation in the championship, and served in Afghanistan along with the rest of his Soldiers until they all re-deployed together back to Fort Hood in June of this year. It did not take long for Bruner to get back into the swing of things in regards to his combatives training after he got back from Afghanistan. As soon as he got back, Bruner asked Thorton what he could do to help the team win another championship. “He knew he was too far behind in the train-up to be able to catch up and compete, however he still wanted to assist the team in any way he could,” said Thorton. Even though he is just assisting in coaching this year, it’s his experience and teaching which have allowed others from our team to grow and get to a place where they are competeing for top ranking in his weight class this year, Thorton added. Bruner is now hoping to get an instructor position on the Fort Hood Combatives team. “I learn more everyday with all the talent we have on the team … I just want to continue training, and I want to continue teaching others what I’ve learned so far,” said Bruner. Thorton might have summed up Bruner best when originally asked what kind of a fighter Bruner is. “Let’s not talk about Sgt. Bruner as a fighter, let’s talk about him as a good person and a good NCO,” said Thorton.
615 coldsteel Family and Friends of the Cold Steel Battalion,
a director and deputy director, Missile Defense Element, Ground MidCourse Defense program at Schreiver, Air Force Base and as the USNORTHCOM’s missile defense
Lifeline providing Earthquake Relief in Pakistan, and served as the Commander of B Company, 615th I am excited to be the new 615th Aviation Support Battalion, during Aviation Support Battalion comOIF 06-08 and as the US Forces mander and this is my Iraq, J33 Aviation Opsecond assignment with erations, Chief of Plans, the 1st Air Cavalry Briduring OIF/OND 10-11. gade. My family and I My last assignment was reside in Belton, Texas as the Deputy Brigade and I am a native of Commander for 166th Canadian Lakes, MichiAviation Brigade, Fort gan. I attended Officer Hood, Texas. Candidate School, Fort My military education Benning, Georgia, and includes completion of was commissioned as the Joint Air and Space a Second Lieutenant in Operations Senior Staff Aviation in 1994. My Course, Intermediprevious enlisted asate Level Education signments include serCourse, the Groundvice with the Marine Based Midcourse DeCorps and Army, as a fense Operator Basic Noncommissioned Ofand Advance Courses, ficer. US Air Force Command My first assignment afCenter Crew Operations ter commissioning was Course, Air Defense as a platoon leader in Artillery Patriot Tranthe 82nd Aviation Brisition Course, Human gade, Fort Bragg, North Resource Management Carolina and where I Qualification Course, subsequently completed Observer/Controller my bachelor’s and masTrainer Course, Comter’s degrees through bined Arms and Serthe Degree Completion vices Staff School, UHProgram. I served as 60 Maintenance Test Commander of D ComPilot Course, Aviation pany, 58Th Aviation Maintenance Manager Regiment and S-4 with Course, Aviation Offithe 164Th Air Traffic cer Basic and Advanced Services Group, while Courses, Airborne assigned to 17Th AviaSchool, UH-60 Aircraft tion Brigade, Republic of Korea officer at Cheyenne Mountain Op- Qualification Course, Air Assault and as Commander, C Company, erations Center while assigned to School, and the Combat Life Saver 2nd Battalion (Training Support) the 100Th Missile Defense Brigade Course. (Aviation), 291St Regiment, Fort (Space) out of Colorado Springs, Riley, Kansas. I have also served as Colorado. I deployed to Operation COLD STEEL 6
safety sense Welcome, Soldiers, families, and Aviation. Recently, COL Mendenfriends of the 1st Air Cavalry Bri- hall appointed me to the 1ACB gade team! Safety Office where I intend to continue this trend with the entire ACB The 1 ACB Safety Office is proud team. to present “Safety Sense” as part The purpose of the safety proof the monthly Warrior Newsletter. gram is to protect the personnel and My name is CW4 William (Randy) equipment of the 1ACB to facilitate Liller and it is my responsibility to mission accomplishment. This is a promote a strong safety sense in the very broad statement and reflects members of our family. The goal of the breadth and depth these efforts is the elimination of of the program itself. injuries to our personnel and dam- Many areas are age to our equipment while main- covered by the taining the ability to accomplish efforts o f the mission. It is my greatest hope e v ery that, through developing this sense of safety, and applying it to all that we do in life from work to play, that each of us will live long and prosper (gratuitous movie reference intended) without the disruptions that accidents inherently create. About me: I am a 21 year veteran of Army Aviation and have served in the safety arena for 18 of those years. Serving as a UH60 Blackhawk pilot-in-command, I have performed every mission for which the Blackhawk is designed, safety officer within the brigade. from VIP to Air Assault and all of These include establishing stanthose in between. Many of those dard operating procedures (SOP’s), missions included integration with inspections, information tracking, our sister ships: the Apache, Chi- accident reporting, risk mitiganook, and Kiowa Warrior. The pro- tion/management, and education, grams I have managed include two among many others. While each companies and eight battalion/task area is important in its own way, forces. The safety record of those by far the most important aspect of units ranks among the best in Army this program is the education of our
Soldiers and family members. Through this education, a “safety sense” is developed. This mindset allows each of us to approach almost any situation and accomplish our goals safely. When applied in a holistic way, safety loses the negative connotations normally associated with it and becomes what we refer to as a combat multiplier. Simply put, safety allows us to accomplish those goals with minimal risk of injury or damage as we move forward to accomplish that goal/mission. Fortunately, we have an excellent start in developing this mindset. Each of us teach our children to look both ways before crossing the street, we all bundle up when it is cold outside, and most of us are careful when we are dealing with electricity. A strong safety sense is already built into our DNA as a will to survive. It is my hope that this office can assist in the continued development of this frame of mind for each of us as we continue to pursue the accomplishment of our missions in life. Thank you for taking the time to get to know my mission. Please help each of us to succeed in our mission and live with a strong safety sense. v/r CW4 William (Randy) Liller 1ACB Aviation Safety Officer 254-553-7859 William.r.liller.mil@mail.mil
Chaplain’s Corner Hello ACB!
from the Army and enrolled in seminary for three years and returned to I am your new brigade chaplain active duty as a chaplain. and I am super excited to be back I have served soldiers as a chapat Fort Hood and in the air space of lain for 12 years and have had the the Air Cav. My family and I are no pleasure of deploying to several strangers to Ft. Hood or the ACB. places like Guantanamo Bay, AfMy wife served as an FRSA in 15 rica, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Iraq. BeBSB and I deployed for 15 months ing a chaplain has taught me the to Taji, Iraq as the battalion chaplain for 1-227. My Son (20) graduated from Harker Heights High school and my youngest daughter (15) graduated from Union Grove Middle School. I am a native of Limestone, Maine. However, I lived the m a j o rity of my teen life in New Orleans (Go Saints). After I graduated high school I decided to follow in the family tradition and serve in the Army where I enlisted as a field artillery cannon crew member. In the midst of serving in the tough and demanding world of field most valuable lesson in life artillery, I met a super nice and car- and that is to invest in Soldiers and ing man (a chaplain) who encour- treat them with dignity and respect. aged me to do something greater In return, you have an opportunity with my life. He mentored me and to change lives. convinced me to serve Soldiers in I am open, super approachable, the capacity as a chaplain. He had and will always have a positive attia profound affect on my life and be- tude in and out of the office. Expect cause of his mentorship I separated to see me and my chaplain assistant
everywhere and involved in everything that involves Soldiers. I love Soldiers and I believe in taking care of family members. Soldiers and family members are our greatest asset. If they are being taken care of by the unit ministry team, then their minds can be at ease when it’s time for them to take care of our nations business to maintain peace and deter the bad guys. My beliefs are simple and direct. I believe that beliefs and values are guiding principles to enlighten one's path, not tools that should be used to rebuke and belittle others. As y o u r brigade Chaplain I will ensure that the BDE Unit Ministry Team and the battalion UMT’s treat you with dignity and respect at all times. We don’t care what problems you have and what you believe; our job is to empower you to be the best Soldier, husband, wife or family member you can be! We are always willing and motivated to help day or night. I or SFC Grant can be reached for appointments@ (254)- 553-7945. Chaplain Khallid Shabazz (MAJ)