Edition in Remembrance of 9/11
Our enemies have made the mistake that America’s enemies always make. They saw liberty and thought they saw weakness. And now, they see defeat. - George W. Bush, President of the United States
HOME OF THE 1ST STRYKER BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM, 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION “ARCTIC WOLVES”
Volume 1
Issue 3
1/25 SBCT COMMANDER Col. Todd R. Wood
Families and Friends of the Arctic Wolves: Here in Afghanistan we have undergone many changes since our move to Masum Ghar. First and foremost, we have regrettably experienced the loss of six great Soldiers from our ranks since our last issue of this newsletter. The Soldiers of 1-24 IN, 3-21 IN, and 1-5 IN, have each been struck by the tragic loss of Soldiers and our thoughts, prayers, and our sincerest condolences go out to the loved ones of these heroes. We also remain ever mindful of our wounded recovering in hospitals. Our hearts go out to all of the families and friends who felt firsthand these tragic events. Soldiers from the affected battalions now dedicate each mission to those they have lost from their ranks and are more determined than ever to ensure they accomplish them. As I mentioned, we have completed our migration from FOB Lagman to our new brigade headquarters here at FOB Masum Ghar, which is located all the way on the other side of Kandahar City from our original lay-down site in Zabul Province. Here in our new location we are fortunate to have many of the same enablers – small, specialized elements designed to perform their specialties in support of our missions helping secure the Afghan countryside and bring hope and improvements for the citizens of Afghanistan Thanks, again, to our Rear Detachment Chain of Command and our outstanding family readiness group network. Your support is essential for enabling us to conduct daily operations here. I also extend our thanks to the entire Fairbanks-North star Borough Community. We know and feel the care and concern that leaders of the local community are providing for our loved ones who wait for us in Alaska. I thank you each for your support! Arctic Wolves! Colonel Todd Wood
1/25 SBCT Command Sergeant Major Command. Sgt. Maj. Bernard L. Knight
To the 1/25 SBCT Family and Friends: We continue to operate within a furious operational tempo here in Afghanistan. Our Soldiers have recently completed their migration from our primary brigade headquarters at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lagman to here in our new location, FOB Masum Ghar. All of your Soldiers continue to perform to a high standard and you can rest assured their morale is as high as it has ever been. We now have the majority of the Soldiers of the brigade arrayed here in Kandahar Province, but we continue to have 1-24 IN at FOB Lagman in Zabul. However, you can rest assured that everything is being done to take the absolute best care possible of all of your Soldiers. In just the short time we have been here, we have seen the completion of the SPAWAR internet cafÊ, opened our own Masum Ghar, Soldierrun P.X., and more improvements are on the way. As always, we all thank each and every one of you for your outstanding support, especially on behalf of our Soldiers. I am constantly amazed by the continued outpouring of letters, care packages, e-mail, Skyping, and phone calls. We do our best to keep information and images flowing back to the homefront by way of our brigade Facebook page, as well as the Defense Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS). Since our last update we have suffered the losses of five additional Soldiers. We extend our sincerest condolences to the loved ones and friends of 1SG Elwell, PFC Springmann, PFC Cordo, PFC Mullins and SPC Green, and Pvt.. Wood. This is not a mission to be taken lightly and it can bring with it a heavy cost. These patriots have given everything to defend our nation and to bring hope to the people of Afghanistan. We will never forget their sacrifices, nor will our grateful nation, to which they truly forever are now heroes. Once again, to all the supporters of this fine brigade, please keep all of our Arctic Wolves’ Soldiers and Families in your thoughts and prayers. ARCTIC WOLVES!
Command Sergeant Major Bernie Knight
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Inside your Aug. Issue BSB Medics
The Wolves’ Den
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9/11 Awesome-Masum...Ghar run 5-1 CAV looks to 5 the future with Romanians honor 6 Stryker Soldiers Female Engagement Team
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Marks‟ brothers reunited
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BSB does chicken 8 right Running with the pack Photo page
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NCO Spotlight
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Combat Medic
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Retention Update
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Fantasy Football 13 Returns! Wounded Soldier returns home
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Canadian TOA
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116th TOA
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ians and Afghan National
Story By CW2 David Cramton Army Soldiers prepared to and CW2 Jack Ivy conquer the treacherous FOB Masum Ghar-
The long, winding, and perilous route, taking the runners to the top of Masum Ghar, mountain of Masum Ghar. To commemorate the tragic ascends and descends for Chaplin MAJ Herb Franklin events that occurred on Sepgave the invocation and was more than 300 feet through tember 11, 2001, the 1-25th followed by General Ahmad moon dust, loose gravel and Stryker Brigade Combat Habibi, the 1st Brigade 205th Team (SBCT) from Fort small boulders before finally Wainwright, Alaska, currently Corps ANA Commander. coming to an end at the heliGeneral Habibi spoke from deployed to FOB Masum copter landing zone. Finishhis heart to remind everyone Ghar, Afghanistan, held the ing first for the men’s division in attendance that the events first annual, and hopefully, that took place on that early was CPT David Vasquez the last Awesome Masum morning will not be soon for- followed by LTJG Eric KneGhar Run. The run was orgotten, and that the struggles bel. For the women’s division, ganized and sponsored by the Top of the World Warrant we currently endure are not finishing first was SSG Mijust purely American strugOfficer Association (TOWchelle Fisher followed by MAJ gles, but the struggles of the WOA) Forward. The presiChi Nguyen. Leading the way Afghan people and a global dent of TOW-WOA, CW3 for the mighty Warrant Officer war on terrorism. COL Todd William “Chip” Steele, preth Wood, commander 1-25 Corps was CW2 Luis Martisided over the festivities of SBCT also gave an emotional nez and WO1 Omar DeLeon. the day and was the driving speech in remembrance of force behind this historic The feelings for the day were our lost comrades in arms event. ultimately summed up by In the shadows of the Tarnak and all the families that this CW2 Ty Worthington who tragic event touched. COL Ranch, where the planning Wood reminded everyone of stated “this was a great way for the heinous acts that octo honor our fallen comrades curred on September 11, and our fallen and wounded brothers and sisters and dediand those who paid the ultiforever changed the world, cated this run to their memmate sacrifice on 9/11.” gathered over eighty Solory. diers, Sailors, Airmen, civil-
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By Pvt. Andreka Johnson 1/25th SBCT PAO FORWARD OPERATING BASE MASUM GHAR, Afghanistan – Throughout history, brave men and women of the armed forces have given their lives in defense of freedoms that we Americans enjoy today. These fallen heroes may no longer be with us, but even in a deployed environment, the Arctic Wolves of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, take time to remember their sacrifices. “As we observe the 10- year anniversary of 9/11, we pay tribute to those who lost their lives and the brave men and women of our armed forces who fought for our country and those who continue to fight,” said Col. Todd R. Wood, commander of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team1/25th SBCT, 25th Infantry Division. “We will do this to dedicate this day to their memories and all the lives that have been altered by the event set into motion ten 10 years ago.” Using remembrance of the fallen as motivation, Soldiers with the, Brigade Troops Battalion ,1/25 SBCT, Brigade Troops Battalion and Afghan National Army’s, 1st Brigade, 205th Corps, gathered together to conduct a commemorative three-kilometer run at FOB Masum Ghar, Sept. 11, 2011 in remembrance of the victims that who lost their lives Sept. 11, 2001. “I think this was a great way for all of us to unite as one,” said Sgt. Juan Munoz, a network communications specialist with the 1/25th SBCT. “I was able to show my respect to those who sacrificed their lives from the tragic event that occurred nearly 10 years ago and to this very day while having fun at the same time.” Also in attendance and participating in the run was Brig. Gen. Ahmad Habibi, commander of the Afghan National Army’s 1st Brigade, 205th Corps. “I would like to send my condolences for all the men and women who gave their lives for this very effort,” he told those gathered. Shortly after the run, the run participants and others who wished to, were able to attend a memorial service held by Maj. (Chap.) Herb Franklin, the 1/25th SBCT chaplain. In addition to Brig. Gen. Habibi, several Soldiers from his brigade also joined their Arctic Wolves counterparts bringing a degree of closure to the events of ten 10 years through camaraderie and partnership in remembrance.
Task Force Bobcat launches Operation KANDAHAR, Afghanistan (Sep. 10) – Task Force
Bobcat, 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, of Fort Wainwright, Alaska, has launched a major disruption operation here over the last 48 hours in Panjwa’i district, Kandahar province. This operation, launched just before the 10-year anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center commenced with a series of battalion-level air assault missions into the area known as the Horn of Panjwa’i and involves nearly 1,500 Soldiers partnered with members of the Afghan National Army. Numerous weapons caches and suspected insurgent detainees have been captured.
… Air-Assaults into the Horn Of Panjwai
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The Wolves’ Den Stryker Medics deliver aid through understanding Story By: Sgt. Thomas Duval
women and children,” said Capt. Marilyn Cowles, physician assistant and Anchorage, Alaska, native assigned to the When Pvt. Liliana Nunez joined 25th BSB. “We are trying to get the Army in 2009 with the hopes them to have faith in their own of being a combat medic, she medical system.” had one goal in mind; help save “It‟s interesting to go out and get the lives of the men and women a closer view of their culture,” defending her freedom. Nunez said. “It‟s something that After deploying to Afghanistan you would want to do again and with the 25th Brigade Support again.” Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Twice a week local villagers Combat Team, and 25th Infantry gather at a local forward operatDivision earlier this year, the ing base and are shown ways of Brownsville, Texas, native, and promoting better health in her fellow medics from the 25th women and children through a BSB sprang into action providnumber of hands-on training ing care to a number of sick and events. injured Soldiers. “It‟s important educational trainBut that wasn‟t enough for the ing that aids in diagnosing and 25th BSB, medics who sought to bring a healthier lifestyle not only to U.S. forces but to Afghan women and children as well. In order to reach the Afghan women and their children, the 125th SBCT medics opened their doors and their minds to start a regularly scheduled Kandahar Regional Military Hospital women and children‟s health clinic. “Our goal is to help train the Afghan National Army midwifes and to help improve the overall health of the Afghan
treating injuries,” Cowles said. Once trained, the midwives can better treat things like pregnancies and other overall health issues, according to Cowles. She said the medical staff, with help from their Bulgarian military counterparts, has also begun efforts to improving the Afghans‟ ability to conduct ultrasounds. “It‟s a slow going process but it‟s improving and that‟s what matters,” Cowles said. “[Medical programs] continue to be beneficial to bridging woman‟s healthcare with their cultural beliefs.” Medical outreach programs dedicated to the Afghan people have become an important part of life in Afghanistan and serve as a reminder that as the war continues so does the growing positive relationship between U.S. and Afghan forces. “We have established a very good working with Afghan Army‟s 205 Kandak,” said Lt. Col. Barnett Gibbs, physician to the 25th BSB. “We are successfully improving their ability [to take] care of themselves.”
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By Capt. Mike Newman, 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment Unit Public Affairs Representative FORWARD OPERATING BASE FRONTENAC, Afghanistan-Communication on the battlefield is crucial to mission success. For the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, Medical NCOIC, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Martin II, it is critical to have network connectivity between the Aid Station and the Squadron Tactical Operations Center. Martin is the medical platoon sergeant for Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 5-1 CAV and he recently explained that having connectivity means more than talking to the TOC. “During the last few weeks with connectivity we have developed medical health engagements plans, increased our supply request by 75% and developed a working relationship with multiple International Organizations and non-governmental organizations,” said Martin. Connectivity up to this point, for the FOB Frontenac Local Area Network had been based around a copper wire system, known as Cat 5. This system was adequate, but had many limitations to include shorter distances that could be covered and signal loss. Furthermore, the squadron Aid Station presented a unique challenge, due to its distance from the TOC. They had no network access and that became the number one priority for the squadron communications shop – Cat 5 cables, switches, a LAN, routers for internet connectivity, a Command Post Node, Secure Internet Protocol Router and Non-secure Internet Protocol Router Access Point, Secure Internet Protocol Router, and Non-secure Internet Protocol Routers. The aforementioned terms are often heard within the Squadron S-6 shop, but one word, more than any other that will guarantee to get the attention of any communications savvy Soldier is fiber, and more specifically, fiber-optic communications. Therefore, the mission for the 5-1 CAV S6 shop became plain and simple … get fiber to FOB Frontenac. Fiber-optic cable is made of glass, is highly flexible, and about the size of a human hair. Fiber is a dramatic improvement over traditional Cat 5 cable. With fiber, there is little to no loss of signal. With fiber, it is possible to support a run of up to two miles. This is a far
increase compared to the maximum 250 feet of Cat 5 cable. Fiber enables network managers to troubleshoot much easier than with Cat 5. Sgt. Kenneth St. John is the Senior LAN Manager in HHT, 5-1 CAV. He is thrilled when he got word that the Fiber Team was on their way to FOB Frontenac. “This is a huge deal for us” said St. John. “The fiber will help us troubleshoot a lot faster and it makes the network a lot more stable. And as a bonus, Sgt. Haring and his guys trained my guys how fiber works and even shared their termination techniques.” The Aid Station was not the only section with a need for network access. Several other buildings on the FOB need critical communication links. Getting fiber installed does just that. It allows various enablers to complete their mission and provide their contributions faster and more efficiently. The S-6 shop doesn’t have the equipment, materials, and more importantly, the specialized Soldiers who install fiber on a daily basis. Sgt. Todd Haring is a cable maintainer specialist in Bravo Company, 422nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, and served as the Team NCOIC for the FOB Frontenac fiber-optic mission. The 422d ESB is a National Guard unit based out of Nevada. What is unique about Haring is that he installs cable for a living back home in Las Vegas. He is a senior technician and cables casinos and commercial industries throughout the city. His experience is a vital asset to the team. His team stays busy and is always on the go expanding the infrastructure all over Afghanistan. “The actual amount of cable we have run so far would probably fill a C-130, with more than 4,000 feet of fiber currently being installed here on Frontenac,” said Haring. “A fair guess would be thousands of miles so far and probably thousands more to come. Our biggest goal for our current mission here in Afghanistan would be leaving each job with a reliable infrastructure. We try to provide the current needs and foresee any future applications that will be needed down the road, and build accordingly. We hope what we do here will help open new communication lines up among each unit and across the battlefield.”
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Romanians honor Stryker Soldiers during award ceremony Story By: Maj. Joel Anderson FORWARD OPERATING BASE LAGMAN, Afghanistan - Romanian Forces held a solemn ceremony here Aug 6 together with departing American allies of the Arctic Wolves Brigade to take time to honor their successful recent partnership. Led by Col. Marius Harabagiu, commander of the Romanian 1st Mechanized Brigade, the Romanian Forces assigned to Combined Team Zabul, presented one of the highest military honors that can be
awarded to members of a foreign military – the Romanian Land Forces Emblem of Honour. As the names of the 1 st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division Soldiers selected to receive this award were called one-by-one by the Romanian commander, the seven distinguished recipients stepped forward and were presented this prestigious medal by Haribagiu. Among the recipients was Haribagiu‟s counterpart, Col. Todd Wood, commander of the Arctic Wolves.
The 1/25th SBCT has departed Zabul province in order to be realigned under a new force structure, which has taken them to Kandahar province with a new brigade headquarters at Forward Operating Base Masum Ghar.
Arctic Wolves Female Engagement Team reaches out to local Afghan women Story By: Pfc. Andreka Johnson QALAT CITY, Afghanistan – A select element of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, and the brigade’s Female Engagement Team spent their day recently providing outreach to a group of Afghan women in Qalat City in Zabul province. One of the goals of the FET is to listen to the needs of the women and to provide a voice to the female population. Due to their cultural beliefs, Afghan women are required to keep their faces covered and are prohibited from talking to males, including the predominantly male U.S. military. This most recent meeting was a chance for members of FET and the local women to discuss new projects and future opportunities to come together with a sense of community. “One of our biggest concerns right now is health care,” said an Afghan woman. “We want to know how to take care of ourselves and our families without having to depend on the local hospitals because of how things are for us right now.” Most importantly, the women were
able to express opinions about everything ranging from women’s rights to being taught how to aid themselves and their families. The women always seem to enjoy speaking with the female engagement teams,” said Maj. Maria Rodriguez, the 1/25 SBCT provost marshal and FET leader. “They are excited for the opportunity to voice their concerns and to feel included in the decisions being made throughout their country.” “The important part of the meetings is that both sides walk away with a better understanding for each other’s needs,” Rodriguez continued. “It’s inspirational for both parties, and it feels good to know we are making a difference in the lives of our Afghan counterparts.” This passion for human interaction and genuine kind-heartedness is what
gives FET its advantage in engaging the local people. “They have helped us a lot,” said another Afghan local. “They are really great about teaching us new things and listening to any ideas that we may have.” As the 1/25th SBCT continues daily operations in southern Afghanistan, Rodriguez and the FET plan on dedicating many future operations toward improving the rights and safety of the female population in Zabul province, Afghanistan.
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‘Malcolm in the middle’ on the frontlines in Afghanistan Story By: Maj. Joel Anderson
“He has a great section and platoon and they are grooming him to be an outstanding artilleryman.”
STRONG POINT TARNAK, Afghanistan – Captain Mitchell Marks, Battalion Fire Support Officer for the Bobcats of 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, recently had an opportunity for a unique family reunion in the middle of Afghanistan, of all places. Marks’ brother, Private First Class Malcolm Marks was also deployed to Afghanistan and assigned to a different area of operations. Pfc. Marks was assigned to the Regional Command East area of operations, as a member of 2nd Platoon, Alpha Battery, 4th Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, part of the 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The journey for Capt. Marks to go see his brother was quite an experience, to say the least. He left on a Thursday and made through the mazes of the sprawling coalition airfield bases at Kandahar and Bagram Airfields, respectively, with no complications. However, once he got to Sharana, he was virtually stranded there for 4 days trying to get to Combat Outpost (COP) Zerok. He actually was able to fly from Sharana to Zerok to on a helicopter on the Fourth of July, but the aircraft was unable to land because the actual guns, the M119A2, 105mm howitzers of the younger Marks’ unit were “hot” or prepared to fire on command. Capt. Marks was finally able to get out and on the ground at COP Zerok to
actually see his younger brother on the July 6. During their time together at COP Zerok, Capt. Marks was able to watch his brother operate as an artilleryman as a number one man on a howitzer and they even fired 6 or 7 missions together, even shooting day and night in support of the maneuver operations …a once-inlifetime opportunity, while he was there. They spent time together during Malcom’s guard shifts in one of the COP’s guard towers. The brothers were able to spend three days together before Mitchell was required to return to his assigned location at Strong Point Tarnak, back down in the Dand District of Kandahar Province. “It was good to talk with him and visit while deployed,” said the older Marks brother. “He has a great section and platoon and they are grooming him to be an outstanding
artilleryman. While I was there I learned that his section was rated the best out of his entire battalion’s eight sections.” As for Malcolm, he actually is "in the middle" and not just the middle of the Afghan theater of operations. Mitchell Marks is the oldest, followed by their sister, then Malcolm, and then there are two younger, halfbrothers who live in Idaho, behind Malcolm. There are also two additional halfbrothers living in California, as well as even more step siblings. Therefore, it has been common down through the recent years and even more so, due in part to the recentlydeparted or cancelled television series of the same name, “Malcolm in the Middle”. On the Fourth of July, this year, it was Malcolm AND Mitchell in the middle…of Afghanistan.
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BSB does logistics…and chicken… right! Story by Maj. Joel Anderson KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Soldiers in the Brigade Support Battalion, primary logistics providers of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, recently showcased their culinary skills for the soldiers in the battalion and some of their friends and neighbors on Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. First thing in the morning, the Opahey Battalion, began applying their logistical wizardry right off the bat by setting up their Containerized Kitchen Tent right out back of the battalion‟s tactical operations center. Next, a select group of helpers, mainly from the brigade feeding team, spread out to the four corners of Kandahar Airfield, rounding up supplies and provisions. What was the occasion? “We just had quite a bit of meat [left over that] we had gotten to barbecue on the Fourth of July, but because we had a lot of people out on combat logistics patrols, as well as people fixing down equipment and running a lot of other missions, [we weren‟t able to use it all],”
said Capt. Leisa Murray, Support Operations Fuel and Water Officer-In-Charge. “So we thought, „Hey, let‟s round up everyone who couldn‟t take a break on Monday and let them have some tasty treats, too.‟” Those who didn‟t have a chance to previously enjoy the Fourth of July greatly appreciated the gesture. “I was moving from Forward Operating Base [FOB] Lagman to here on KAF on Sunday and Monday, so I didn‟t get over here or anywhere, to have any Fourth of July feasting,” said Spc. Maria Montano, with brigade logistics (S4). “So I‟m really excited that my BSB buddies decided to throw this little party. It really made my day and I know this is really going to give a good morale boost to a lot of Arctic Wolves who have been really gettin‟ after it.” The highlight from the event was definitely the chicken. There was also steak and sausage, but the winner, as well as crowd-pleaser, was, handsdown, the chicken.
When asked if there was a secret recipe, Sgt. 1st Class Lynette Ross, BFT noncommissioned officer in charge, whispered, “If I told you, I‟d have to get Special Forces after you.” Several people in the crowd speculated about just what had gone into the “bird” to make it so tasty. Overwhelmingly, most folks said they detected just enough black pepper to add some much welcomed flavor. Other comments included, “I wish we had our cooks cooking for us every day… BSB does chicken right… DE-EEelicious!” All-in-all, the event was a great opportunity for Opahey Force Providers to come together with some of their friends and neighbors here on KAF. However, there was a lot more to it than just food and fun. The logisticians of 25th BSB truly know how to support the force of the Arctic Wolves… day-in and day-out, from the Last Frontier of Alaska to Freedom‟s Frontier here in Afghanistan.
“If I told you, I’d have to get Special Forces after you.” -SFC Ross
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Story By: Sgt. Thomas Duval FORWARD OPERATING BASE LAGMAN, Afghanistan - In southern Afghanistan, finding time to celebrate a momentous occasion can be difficult and at other times completely impossible. On July 1, the soldiers of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, cleared their calendars and shifted focus to celebrate a benchmark reached by one soldier. Soldiers, peers and mentors gathered at Forward Operating Base Lagman, in Zabul province, Afghanistan, for the promotion of Sgt. 1st Class Penny Barber to the rank of master sergeant. Although reaching the respected rank is an accomplishment that very few soldiers will reach in their careers, it‟s even rarer among those who share Barber‟s military occupational specialty as an internment/resettlement specialist. With her promotion, the Potsdam, N.Y., native became one of only 36 I/R specialists who currently possess the rank of master sergeant. “It was difficult to reach master sergeant, but it was well worth the hard work and persistence,” Barber said. “I am very proud that I accomplished this major task in my military career.” As the detention operations non-commissioned officer in charge, she is responsible for the health, welfare and rehabilitation of U.S. military prisoners as well as detainees. Although the task may seem simple, there is a lot that goes into being a successful I/R specialist.“While deployed, we provide guidance to the command on when and how we can take a detainee into custody,” Barber explained. “We are also responsible for training the soldiers who possess different MOSs on how to guard, care and watch over the detainees. We teach the soldiers when to use force and when not to on an unruly detainee.” According to Barber, the demanding day-to-day operations of the career field is one that very few can learn to live with. Long hours, extended trips away from home and the nature of dealing with prisoners often force soldiers to change their career path or even get out of the Army altogether, she said. Although the race or sex of a soldier has no effect in most career fields, Barber said being a female „prison guard‟ definitely adds to the already challenging MOS.
“It is hard being a female in my career field because most [military] inmates and detainees don‟t give you the same respect that they would a male NCO,” Barber said. “With this being a male dominated field, you as a female have to prove yourself every day.”And prove herself is what she has done. “She is passionate about her profession and takes personal pride in her work,” said Maj. Maria Rodriguez, the 1/25 SBCT provost marshal and personal friend to Barber. “She is dependable and an extremely hard worker. She is a role model to career Army women of all ranks.” Barber said her motivation came from wanting to prove that females can accomplish just as much, if not more, than the male non-commissioned officers.Barber earned the respect of her fellow soldiers by turning what many might see as stumbling blocks into stepping stones, which she has used throughout her 19-year military career to reach what some would call an unimaginable feat. “Master Sgt. Barber has done what very few in her ranks have been able to do, and it‟s a result of hard work and dedication,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Bernie Knight, 1/25 SBCT senior noncommissioned officer in charge.Her dedication and hard work has not gone unnoticed. “Master Sergeant Barber is a no-nonsense NCO,” Rodriguez said. “She is not afraid to take the hard right and voice her objection to an injustice or what her many years of experience has told her won‟t work … She is dependable and an extremely hard worker. She has been a dual military spouse, a single mom, has been deployed twice and had to make hard decisions. She does not shy from speaking about her experiences with mothers who struggle with the same challenges today. She speaks to them about options and ways to reach your career goals while being a responsible parent.” Throughout her lustrous career, Barber has overcome every obstacle that has come her way, but as she looks ahead, there is one challenge that still awaits. “I have always wanted to be a first sergeant and lead a company of soldiers,” she said. If Barber accomplishes her goal, she will add to her already large footprint imbedded into the Army's corrections program.
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The Wolves’ Den
Army Medic and aspiring artist uses Afghanistan as her canvas
By Sgt. Thomas Duval 1-25th SBCT PAO During the 16th century artists and painters like Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci used their talents to bring life to canvases and walls. Their ability to bring beauty and color to these surfaces sealed their places in history and provided a benchmark for the aspiring artists who followed Since that time the techniques and equipment to create and display art have changed, but the desire to add life to an object has not, at least not for U.S. Army Pfc. Lisa Kiefer.
Kiefer is a medic and amateur painter serving with the 25th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, and 25th Infantry Division. “It‟s something I enjoyed doing at a very young age and something I found I was naturally talented at,” the combat medic said. Currently deployed to Afghanistan the Concord, N.C, native often spends her free time displaying her artistic abilities on paper and any other canvas she can find. Along the way she has found a way to brighten an otherwise dark situation. “You really can‟t put into words her artistic abilities,” said Sgt. 1st class Ashley Barrett, the 25th BSB, noncommissioned officer in charge of personnel management. “It‟s breathtaking.” A recent painting portraying the unit‟s mascot and combat vehicle on a protective concrete wall, demanded more than 40 hours of free time, all of them after her normal duty day was over. Her hard work and dedication, has paid off by catching the
attention of many Soldiers, providing them with a sense of motivation; something that can be hard to come by during a deployment. “Soldiers come up to me all the time and tell me all the time they admire my work, but to me it‟s not a big deal. It‟s just something I love doing,” Kiefer said. “I‟m glad it‟s making a difference.” Kiefer said painting releases stress and helps her forget about all the conflict that surrounds her. “I get to put my music on and just do my thing,” she said with a laugh. (I changed “controversy” to “conflict”, because it made it sound like she was somehow controversial) Her love for creating personal masterpieces began way before her desire to be a Soldier, and is something she says she will always make time for. Although her work may never demand the same attention as the renowned 16th century artists or be found displayed next to the Mona Lisa, Kiefer said she is just happy making her small mark in Afghanistan.
Army Retention Policy continues to change. This is unfortunate for our Soldiers who have been considering further service, but keep putting it off. The new IN/OUT CALL Milper Message (MILPER 11-255) was released on 17 AUG 2011. Under this new message approximately 78% of the Soldier’s in the Brigade who are in the reenlistment window (ETS prior to 2012 SEP 30) now find themselves in an over strength MOS. This limits these Soldier’s to the Army Training Reenlistment Option. Soldiers in the window with an over strength MOS can reenlist for a shortage or balanced MOS provided training seats are available; training seats are extremely in short supply, and are given on a first come first serve basis. The large number of MOS’s now listed as over strength is a reflection of the Army’s force shaping. The new Fiscal Year that starts in October is not anticipated to bring any relief to our current reenlistment posture. We can expect to see most of these force moderators to remain in effect at the start of the new FY, as well as see further moderations in the coming FY. Because of the evolving changes we continue to see it is not suggested for a Soldier to wait around for a better deal. The times of waiting for more money and better options no longer exist. If staying with the Army is the right thing for you as a Soldier NOW is the time to reenlist. For more information on how this effects you or your Soldiers please see one of the Brigades Career Counselors.
“STAY WITH THE PACK” The following Soldiers extended their commitment to the Stryker Brigade
SFC Streeper SGT Anderson SSG Schuchardt SGT Sanchez SGT Schmidt SSG Geer SGT Cypert SGT Robinson SFC Shannon SPC Oster SPC Bookout SPC Becher SSG Weathers SPC Riddick
SPC Menke SPC Epshteyn SPC Knapp SPC Rhienhardt SGT Horn SPC Buenrostro SPC Hawthorne SGT Sastamoinen SPC Davis SPC Torres SSG Skidgel SSG Brady SSG Adkins SGT Aponte
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The Wolves’ Den
Deployed Soldiers embrace NFL’s new bargaining agreement Story By: Sgt. Thomas Duval
S-6 is ready for some football
Vikings-Packers rivalry
When the National Football League signed its new collective bargaining agreement earlier this month to secure a 2011 NFL season, the players, owners and coaches weren't the only ones relieved. Many of the nearly 4,000 Soldiers deployed to Afghanistan with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based out of Fort Wainwright, Alaska, welcomed and celebrated the momentous occasion, whether it was with a small fist to the sky or a tear of happiness shed in the dark confines of a tent. For the players the images of playing in Sunday and Monday night games mixed with the large salaries and game bonuses drove up the intensity of excitement. For the Soldiers who work what sometimes seem like endless days; however, the new CBA means another year of fantasy football. “I‟m very excited, it‟s a once a year thing where I can put on my thinking cap and have fun doing it,” said 1st Sgt. Eric Mroz, civil affairs specialist assigned to B Company, 489th Civil Affairs Battalion, out of Knoxville Tennessee, attached to the 1-25th SBCT. “It‟s a relief to have the fantasy league back. It gives me something to take my mind off of all the stress that comes with being in Afghanistan,” said Sgt. Victor Saucedo, 1/25th SBCT personnel NCO. Finding time for fantasy football is difficult for many Soldiers and with the security of the United States resting on their shoulders it may seem petty and unimportant to some. But for the Soldiers, getting a break
from the long, stressful days and nights plays a vital role in their morale and welfare which translates into better performance on duty. “It‟s important for everyone to have some sort of outlet and fantasy football is an outlet to many Soldiers during their time away from home,” Moraz said. “I‟m excited for the upcoming season.” Sgt. David Joehnk, a radio operations maintainer assigned to the BTB, 1-25th SBCT said. “It helps distract the mind from everything that‟s going on around the Soldiers and it gives them something to relate to a time when they were back home relaxing,” For some, the season supports a sense of familiarity and brings with it a reminder of home and helps pass the time during an otherwise difficult year. “During previous deployments fantasy football helped make every Sunday come quicker and made the time go by faster and
everyone knows during a deployment you want the months to fly by,” Mroz said. Although it‟s just a game, many of the Soldiers have taken pride in their preparations for the upcoming season and often spend any free time getting ready for their rapidly approaching drafts. “Whenever I have free time I try to go back and adjust my roster. It has become important to keep my undefeated streak going,” Saucedo said with a laugh. “It‟s more than a game. It‟s a hobby.” Being the tactically trained professionals they are, the 125th SBCT Soldiers aren't letting the fun get in the way of the work and progress that needs to be made every day. “Our work is always the number one draft pick when it comes to a deployment,” Saucedo said. “With a hobby like Fantasy football we can work hard and still have fun.”
Story By: Staff Sgt. Patricia McMurphy
FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - Sgt. Anthony Knight, an infantryman with 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division here boarded a plane with his wife Renee and daughter, Addison. They were heading back to Alaska. Knight had been released from the hospital at Fort Lewis, Wash. after receiving treatment from injuries sustained during his deployment to Afghanistan. As the Knights exited the plane just past midnight at the Fairbanks International Airport, they were greeted at the plane by a few familiar faces including his commander, first sergeant and the squadron‟s care team coordinator – a routine greeting party for service members returning home. The three escorted the Knight family to the elevator and down to the terminal and baggage claim floor. When the elevator door opened to the baggage claim area, the unexpected happened. Nearly 50 people from Knight‟s unit and local community had taken time out of their lives to show their support, greet Sgt. Knight at the airport and welcome him home. Capt. Roger Dallman, 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, Rear Detachment Commander, gave most of the credit for this warm welcome to Lizz Beem, wife of Staff Sgt. Brian Beem and the 5-1st care team coordinator, and the rest of her team. “At [3:00 pm] that day we found out when he was coming back,” Dallman said. “Lizz and her care team did most of the work.” Beem felt it was important to show each and every Soldier, single or married, that they were part of the 5-1st family and that they were cared for. “I knew there was a need,” Beem said. “My husband is a wounded warrior, now on his third deployment and we never had a homecoming.”The unit‟s Family Readiness Group, care team, members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and many others had come out to make sure that this hero had the welcome home every Soldier in the U.S. military deserves.They came out to show support for Knight, his wife and daughter, for their own loved ones currently deployed and those who had served in the past. The 5-1st has a saying they have adopted and made into their unit logo as well as their way of life: “M.S.H.,” which stands for “Make Stuff Happen” and they did just that. When the members of the FRG and care team learned that one of their own was coming back from deployment early due to an injury, they jumped into action. With fewer than 8 hours to prepare, they contacted friends, family and other members of the local community they knew would like to help give their Soldier, their “family
member,” a hero‟s welcome “ I would say there were 50 people there - at least,” said Cyndi Raugh, wife of Lt. Col. David Raugh and the 5-1st FRG Senior Advisor, “it was amazing.” “These guys are going over there, and whenever they get hurt, they‟re not going to be able to have the big moment at the AHA [administrative holding area] or at the gym that most have gone through [when they return home],” Raugh said. “This is an opportunity to change something that really affected Lizz and her family,” Raugh said. “This is a great opportunity to let them know that they are part of the 5-1, that we are family and that we care about them.” “I feel that this is more than just a unit,” said Raugh, “it‟s like a family.” Maria Sutherland, a Gold Star wife and care team member said she agreed with Raugh. “We were never part of 5-1, my husband died when it was still [4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment].” She said her and her son love how the 5-1st has incorporated them into their family. She said “(My son) knows he has this great support system, and knows he doesn‟t have to worry about me.” And even thought the Knights had only been a part of the 5-1st family a short while, Mrs. Knight said, “It was really cool to see everyone there [at the airport].” The Knights said they were grateful for the support and that this unit and FRG was one they felt really cared for the Soldiers. Mrs. Knight said they also have an effective Facebook page that helps bring them closer together. “If someone is going to the movies, they invite others; they have softball games, and potlucks on Fridays,” said Mrs. Knight. “This FRG has their stuff together.”Knight said she would like to show the same kind of support to other returning Soldiers. “We will definitely be there for anybody else that comes home, to return the favor,” she said. After all was said and done and after everyone had gone home; with the satisfaction of the Knight‟s knowing they were cared for and a part of the family; Beem settled down to write to her husband who is still deployed with the unit in Afghanistan.Beem said she wrote “to thank him for making her a better person and tell him it was because of him she knew this had to be done.” “Thank you Brian for your service,” she wrote. “Because of you, I was able to touch hearts tonight.”
Story By: Sgt. Thomas Duval
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Standing amidst the shadow of the Canadian flag, the 1Royal 22e Regiment closed the book on its long-storied mission in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, during a transfer-of-authority ceremony inside the New Canada House on Kandahar Airfield, July 7. The ceremony marked the end of a six-year journey where Canadian forces operating as Task Force Kandahar, helped secure and improve security throughout the southern province of Kandahar, particularly the Panjwa‟i District, which was once perceived as the most dangerous and fierce district in Afghanistan. “We have flattened the fighting season … from destroying opposition to ensuring security and stability … the districts of TFK are much better off in terms of security and prosperity,” said Brig. Gen. Dean J. Milner, TFK commander. “We held the line,” said Lt. Gen. Marc Lessard, the head of Canadian Forces Expeditionary Command, referring to his unit‟s ability to hold and secure what once was an insurgent strong hold. “Remarkable progress has been achieved in enhancing security and governance.” After arriving in Afghanistan less than three months ago and working shoulder to shoulder with Canadian forces, the Alaska-based 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, assumed responsibility for the war-torn districts. According to Col. Todd R. Wood, commander of the 1/25 SBCT, the “Arctic Wolves” will work to ensure insurgents don‟t re-establish a foothold in Panjwa‟i, Dand and Daman Districts and will strive to connect lower- and higher-level governance's. “The level of commitment from Canadian forces as well as Regional Command South has made the area a much safer place not only for our soldiers but for the people of Afghanistan,” Wood said. “Our soldiers are excited about the way ahead and are prepared to overcome any challenges that they may face.” The ceremony was at times somber for the Canadians who also used the occasion to commemorate the lasting legacies and memories left by soldiers and civilians who paid the ultimate sacrifice while on the forefront of counterinsurgency. Senior leaders in attendance included RC South commander Maj. Gen. James Terry. Terry emphasized the fact that Canadian forces have forever sealed a meaningful place in history and offered a substantially improved position to the 1/25 SBCT Arctic Wolves from which to operate. “This is the time ... this is the place … and we are the team,” Terry said. Although the ceremony signaled an end to Canadian combat operations in southern Kandahar, it‟s not the end of the red maple leafs proud tradition in Afghanistan. Instead, the U.S. ally will relocate to Regional Command North to conduct training and continue to “Climb to Glory,” a motto proudly earned and inherited from the U.S. Army and RC South Headquarters‟ 10th Mountain Division.
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1/25 SBCT Relinquishes authority to 116th IBCT Maj. Joel Anderson FORWARD OPERATING BASE LAGMAN, Afghanistan – A transfer of authority ceremony was held near here today, at the Afghan National Army‟s (ANA) Camp Eagle. This historic event took place between two highly revered and decorated Army units in recognition of the Arctic Wolves‟ of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division transfer of authority over operations in Zabul province to the 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT). During the ceremony the 1/25th colors where cased for the relatively short ride to their new home, the new brigade headquarters at FOB Masum Ghar, located in the Panjwai District of Kandahar province, which they recently took over from departing Canadian Forces. “The previous team did an excellent job and they achieved a lot,” said Zabul Provincial Governor Alhaj Mohammad Ahraf Naseri. “The security of the province improved and the partnership of coalition forces with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan improved for the future.” Maj. Gen. James L. Terry, commanding general of Regional Command South, 10th Mountain Division (LI), spoke on the significance of each unit‟s sacrifices, as well as their past missions and future challenges. “Due to the Arctic Wolves‟ efforts the citizens of Zabul Province are now much better off,” Terry said. “The Stonewall Brigade will now pick up where they leave off.” “It is not what you do, it is what you leave behind,” said Terry to both the incoming and outgoing units. Terry also briefly touched upon force realignment plans that had been long-since decided upon which brought about this change in operational area responsibility.
Colonel Todd R. Wood took the podium next and thanked the Arctic Wolves‟ Afghan partners and the 116th for their great support. In particular, he praised Gov. Naseri‟s leadership in support of the people of the province and for his mentorship. “We have had a great experience here in Zabul. We will miss our friends and partners,” said Wood. “The 116th Stonewall Brigade is a great unit that will continue to help take this province to great new levels.” “Everybody has worked hard to make this province better and the 116th will continue what we have started,” said Wood. Finally, the Stonewall Brigade commander, Col. Blake Ortner said, “The Afghan people are a great people and they have the ability to do anything,” said Ortner. “We will work together to build a better future for Afghanistan, especially the children.” “I look forward to working with our partners in making Afghanistan a better place,” he said. The Arctic Wolves will continue their mission and now operate throughout the southern Afghan province of Kandahar. The newest additions to the Arctic Wolves areas of Afghan operations are the districts of Dand Panjwai. They are working to increase the capacity of the government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and mentor the Afghan national security forces.
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REMEMBERING OUR FALLEN COMRADES
SFC. Kenneth B. Elwell 3-21 IN
SPC. Douglas Green 3-21 IN
Tyler M. Springman 3-21 IN
PFC. Brandon S. Mullins 3-21 IN
PFC. Douglas Cordo 1-24 IN
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STRYKER CREED "Strike First - Strike Hard!" Strike Fear in the enemy's hearts and minds; I am a lethal and skilled war fighter with unmatched intestinal fortitude. joel.b.anderson@us.army.mil Being a disciplined, professional soldier, I live the army values. farrukh.a.daniel@afghan.swa.army.mil Committed to my fellow soldiers, unit, and country, I am ready to answer my nation's call michael.d.blalack@us.army.mil - NOW! Tough, both physically and mentally, and instilled with the Warrior Spirit, I can accomplish thomas.duval@us.army.mil any mission - anytime, anywhere!
1/25 SBCT PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
Unit Public Affairs Representatives * 2-8 FA: Capt. Angela Chipman * 1-24 IN: 1st Lt. Mathew Rogers *3-21 IN: Capt. Chad D. Wriglesworth *1-5 IN: 1st Lt. Mathew R. Burke *5-1 CAV: Capt. Mike Newman *BTB: 2nd Lt. John Conway *BSB: 1st Lt. Stephen T. Leader
MAJ. JOEL ANDERSON PAO OIC MC1 FARRUKH DANIEL PAO NCOIC SGT. MICHAEL BLALACK PRINT JOURNALIST SGT. THOMAS DUVAL PRINT JOURNALIST PFC ANDREW GEISLER PVT. ANDREKA JOHNSON PRINT JOURNALIST
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