VOLUME 46.2 | SUMMER 2022 | WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM CPL Benedict: A IronTrueMan U.S. ARMY RESERVE SOLDIER OF THE YEAR FEATURE ATICLE/ PG12
Commanding General: Brig. Gen. David M. Samuelsen
Public Affairs Officer: Capt. Christian S. Venhuizen Public Affairs NCOIC: Sgt. 1st Class Darleen G. Adkins 704-227-2829
The Griffon is published four times a year and is an authorized publication for members of the Army. Contents of The Griffon are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the 108th Training Command (IET). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including supplements and inserts, does not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Knight Communications, Inc. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, use or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Griffon is an unofficial publication authorized by AR360-1. Editorial content is prepared, edited, and provided by the Public Affairs Office of the 108th Training Command (IET). The Griffon is published by Knight Communications, Inc., 10150 Mallard Creek Road, Suite 201, Charlotte, NC, 28262 — a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the 108th Training Command (IET). Material for publication may be submitted to: PAO, 1330 Westover Street, Charlotte, NC 28205-5124.
Public Affairs NCOIC: Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Vine
Commander: Brig. Gen. Susie Kuilan
98th Training Division (IET)
Command Sgt. Maj. : Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Kaim Public Affairs Officer (vacant) Public Affairs NCOIC (Sgt. Jeffery Harris)
Command Executive Officer: Mr. Charles Fairbanks
104th Training Division (LT)
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95th Training Division (IET)
Command Chief Warrant Officer: CW45 Joseph Sutton
Command Sgt. Maj. : Command Sgt. Maj. Neil J. Pierce
108th Training Command Public Affairs (IET)
Command Sgt. Maj.: Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle Edwards Affairs Officer: Capt. John Brown Public Affairs NCOIC: (Vacant)
Commanding General: Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer
Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis
Command Sgt. Maj.: Command Sgt. Maj. Juddiah Mooso
Deputy Commanding General: Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Farris
Chief of Staff: Col. Mark Dedrick
Public Affairs Officer: Lt. Col. Michelle A. Lunato
108thfollowTraining Command (IET)
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 1 CONTENTSTHEGRIFFON|SUMMER2022 2 From the Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Juddiah Mooso CSM, 108th Training Command (IET) 3 From the Commander Brig. Gen. Susie Kuilan CG, 95th Training Division (IET) 4 From the Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle S. Edwards CSM, 95th Training Division (IET) 5 From the Commander Brig. Gen. Dave Samuelsen CG, 98th Training Division (IET) 5 From the Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Todd R. Kaim Commanding, 98th Training Division (IET) 6 From the Commanding General Brig. Gen. Rodney Fischer CG, 104th Training Division (IET) 108TH TRAINING COMMAND (IET) 7 108th Training Command (IET) Memorial Tributes 8 Army Reserve Senior Enlisted Council 9 Memorial Day Parade Returns to Saline as Community Honors Fallen Soldiers 11 Saline Memorial Day Parade Message from Grand Marshal, Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis 95TH TRAINING DIVISION (IET) 12 COVER STORY CPL Benedict: A True Iron Man 14 The Expert Soldier 15 Air Assault! 16 98th Training Division Conducts Change of Command Ceremony 17 98th DivisionTrainingWelomes New Commanding General 19 Soldiers Give High School Football Team An Army Experience 98TH TRAINING DIVISION (IET) 22 National AssociationInfantry 23 A Headdress Adds A Feather: The Speial Unit Designation of 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division 25 Infantry Drill Sergeants Talk the Talk, Walk the Walk 104TH TRAINING DIVISION (LT) 26 Notes from the First Week of Cadet Summer Traning 2022 27 Alpha Company 2-317th Battalion, VMI/VT FTX Support Mission 28 Reserve Drill Sergeants Sharpen Skills by Training VMI Cadets 29 SROTC Battalion Fights to Share Reserve Opportunities 30 CSM Dwayne Coffer Graduates with Doctor of Education Degree 31 From Private to Command Sergeant Major: CSM Dwayne Coffer’s History with the 2-317th Regiment 32 104th Training Division (LT) CST Snapshot 34 Equal Opportunity Leaders Lean on Each Other During EOLC 37 A Bump in the Road SPECIAL MILITARY RESOURCES GUIDE (ADVERTORIAL) 38 Travel, Education, and More
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STAFF SGT. BENJAMIN LATHAM, 95TH TRAINING DIVISION (DRILLGraduateRangerSERGEANT):School Staff Sgt. Latham, 2020 USAR NCO of the Year, was afforded the opportunity to attend U.S. Army Ranger School in 2022. No doubt one of the most grueling courses in the U.S. Army, Staff Sgt. Latham represented the U.S. Army Reserve and the 108th TC and rose to the challenge, successfully completing the course and earning the coveted Ranger Tab in June! Outstanding job!
Outstanding job!! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Spc. Benedict during both events, and I can tell you the USAR & 108th both got it right. A true pleasure to speak with, Spc. Benedict is the consummate professional with a great sense of humor and an infectious smile. He’s the Soldier you want at your side in the toughest of times, and I couldn’t be more proud of his accomplishments. I know that all of us are looking forward to seeing him compete in the Army Best Warrior Competition later this year as the U.S. Army Reserve’s Top Soldier! Hooah Spc. Benedict!
SGT. 1ST CLASS DELBERT ROSSITER, 95TH TRAINING DIVISION (SENIOR DRILL SERGEANT):2022USARSoldieroftheYearCompetitor
108TH CONTINUESOLDIERSTOGO ABOVE AND BEYOND
When Staff Sgt. Parler was unable to attend the USAR event, Sgt. 1st Class Rossiter immediately stepped up to represent the command as our NCO competitor. Sgt. 1st Class Rossiter is a seasoned and experienced drill sergeant with a can-do attitude and calm demeanor. But what I found most impressive about Sgt. 1st Class Rossiter was the reason he entered the Best Warrior Competition events from the start—to support one of his Soldiers, Spc. Benedict. True NCO leadership is alive and well, and Sgt. 1st Class Rossiter is the embodiment.
2 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM or this article I’d simply like to recognize a few of our Soldiers who’ve recently gone above and beyond, standing out amongst their peers at some of the most prestigious events in the U.S. Army Reserve. Each of these servicemembers have represented themselves, the 108th Training Command, and the U.S. Army Reserve with exemplary grit, manner, and in true Griffon style.
TRAINING
STAFF SGT. BENJAMIN PARLER, 98TH TRAINING DIVISION (DRILL SERGEANT): 2022 108th TC (IET) NCO of the Year Winner I met Staff Sgt. Parler out at one of the Best Warrior Competition ranges, and during the awards dinner. A true professional and confident NCO with a positive attitude, Staff Sgt. Parler represented the 108th TC well throughout the competition, earning the title as the 108th TC’s Top NCO.
From the COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR Command Sgt. Maj. Juddiah Mooso CSM, 108th Training Command (IET) COMMAND (IET)108th
CAPT. CHRISTOPHER YOUNG, 95TH TRAINING DIVISION AND SGT. 1ST CLASS REGINALD TURNIPSEED, U.S. ARMY DRILL SERGEANT ACADEMY (AGR DSL): Both earned the Expert Soldier Badge in the first-ever U.S. Army Reserve ESB Competition at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. I would also like to recognize all the fantastic NCOs and Soldiers who answered the call to support all the above events. I received numerous compliments on their professionalism, and all agreed the events were made possible by our team’s tireless effort and initiative. All these events must be validated prior to execution, which means the Soldiers must be true subject matter experts. If you’ve never been involved in a supporting role, I can promise you that you will not regret it. These events are a great opportunity for high-speed Soldiers who want to challenge themselves to be a part of something bigger than themselves, whether as a competitor or in support. Once again, the 108th Training Command absolutely set the bar. We are what right looks like! Keep pressing!! Griffon 7
SPC. BRADY BENEDICT, 95TH TRAINING DIVISION (DRILL SERGEANT CANDIDATE)
2022 U.S. Army Reserve Soldier of the Year Winner & 2022 108th TC (IET) Soldier of the Year Winner
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FAMILY FOCUSED I
From the COMMANDER ’m going to steal some of my own words from a speech I gave recently to some soonto-be commissioned second lieutenants from Henderson State University (Arkadelphia, AR) ROTC Program. I was asked to speak at their end-of-year awards banquet. Most of the graduates from that program are going into the National Guard or Reserve so I felt that I needed to have a discussion with them about balance –balancing the Reserve Component mission with new jobs/careers for most of them and family life. When you are a member of the Reserve Component, you generally must learn how to juggle all these elements and many of us are very successful at it. To juggle these elements (the three-balls being juggled are military, civilian job, and family), we must always remember what our priorities are – and that they are not always the same and that they will often, as they should, change. We always say that our families should be our priority. That holds true most of the time. Sometimes, however, just as you will, I have to prioritize the military – maybe I’m about to deploy. Maybe my Soldiers need me to sign all that paperwork. Regardless – there are times when we have to prioritize the military.Other times you may have to prioritize your civilian employment – maybe there’s a big project that has to be finished or you are up for a promotion or you’re trying to get settled into your first “real” job. Then of course we have our families and personal lives. They should always be our priority, but we should realize that they can’t always be THE priority. I missed my son’s entire 12th year when I was deployed to Iraq. I’ve also missed more wedding anniversaries than I’ve celebrated with my husband – however, when it’s time for them to be the #1 priority, they are. For example, my son asked me when I returned from Iraq if I could please not miss any of his football games because those were the most important events in his life. So I didn’t. I missed a Division activation ceremony to be at a game. But you know what? My executive officer could stand in that formation as easily as I could, and no one would remember who was there a few years later. But to this day – my son – who is now 29, remembers that I was there for every single game. It’s called a line in the sand – and you must all determine what those lines are and stick to them. As I tell my Soldiers, you can’t draw those lines so broadly that you miss everything in the military, but everyone has to have those lines that they don’t cross. Gen. McConville, the current Chief of Staff of the Army, has a continuum that he discusses in terms of most important/can’t miss family events such as funerals, births, weddings versus birthdays, and anniversaries, and then puts them on a line with Army events such as deployments (which can’t be missed) to out-ofordinary training events that have to be placed on a different line than ordinary training events – some are a higher priority than others –just as events for you must be. For example, anniversaries are not a top priority for my husband and I, but for my deputy and his wife they are a top priority. So he has missed battle assembly more than once because of his anniversary. Again, only you can make those decisions. But we must all realize, as most of us know by now, that being part of the Reserve Component is NOT a one weekend a month, two weeks in the summer commitment any longer. More will be required of us but we’ve all proven that we can do this and more. Now I’m going to end the way I end almost every video that I put on Facebook because it’s important – take care of your battle buddies, take care of your loved ones, but mostly take care of yourself. –Ironman 6 out.
Brig. Gen. Susie Kuilan CG, 95th Training Division (IET)
READY AND RESILIENT! 95th TRAINING DIVISION (IET) From the COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR
4 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM s leaders, we strive to build a physically healthy and psychologically strong force – this includes our Soldiers, family members, and Army civilians - our total Army family. The Army wins if our Soldiers are proficient in their tasks, physically fit, handle stress and adversity well, and live the Warrior Ethos and Army values. Resilience is the ability to handle challenges, stress, and adversity and still perform well. Soldiers of all ranks must practice skills that build resilience as part of the collective effort to sustain a strong Army team. This includes building strong, resilient families. As leaders we must ensure all members of the Army family are empowered to maximize their potential and face challenges that arise while deployed or at Thehome.main program for building resilience is the Army’s Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness (CSF2) Campaign. We know families, who can handle the stress and challenges when their CitizenSoldier is deployed, attends battle assembly or training, or spends their precious personal time on calls during the month, and perform better. This includes the strength and support of our extended network also. Every Soldier’s situation is unique and support networks come in many flavors. Some Soldiers live with their parents or other relatives, some attend college or may be single and rely on friends, and others have spouses and/ or children. Almost everyone relies on a circle of family and/or friends to help them navigate life. Leaders should promote an environment of engagement with their Soldier’s extended support networks. “Family Days” and Foundational Training don’t just have to be about the Soldier and their spouses and children. We should look for opportunities to include extended families, friends, and even employers. They are all part of our Soldier’s support network. If we foster strong bonds and an environment of trust between the unit, the Soldier, their families, and their extended support networks, then we empower all to weather adversities and help sustain a motivated and engaged Soldier. This is key to a strong Army team where Soldiers want to come to drill, participate enthusiastically, have a strong sense of “we,” and want to continue to serve. If a Soldier sees you are genuinely trying to do right by them and their family, they will be far more likely to endure hardships in good humor, rather than resent leadership or the Army. Bottom line, if Soldiers see you care, they care. We talk all the time about taking care of Soldiers. This goes beyond making sure they are paid. Comprehensive fitness and resilience is a Total Soldier philosophy. It means keeping them challenged, and engaged, understanding them as an individual, and supporting their unique circumstances, which includes their network and those things they find value and meaning in.
Command Sgt. Maj. Kyle S. Edwards CSM, 95th Training Division (IET)
A Resilience is the ability to handle challenges, stress, and adversity and still perform well.
“Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt
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Command Sgt. Maj. Todd R. Kaim CSM, 98th Training Division (IET)
I would also like to thank each and everyone’s supporting element, your families and friends. Leadership always talks about their importance, and it is true that without that certain someone holding down the “fort” at home raising children, ensuring the bills are paid, or just them being there to talk to, their contributions can never be overstated.
From the COMMANDER reetings to all my teammates in the 98th 108thDivisionTrainingandacrossTraining Command. It is an amazing honor to serve with all of you. Thank you to everyone for making the Change of Command a great experience with a ceremony that upheld the great traditions of our Army. As I get to see accomplishmentsmoreofthis organization and talk to our wonderful Soldiers, the magnitude of the greatness of their IET contributions are beginning to sink in. America has the greatest military force ever assembled upon the face of the earth—made up of patriotic, courageous and selfless servants of our Nation. Eager young Americans have these same qualities, but lack the experience to translate their willingness into action. That’s where our team comes in—transforming wide-eyed young recruits into the Warriors of tomorrow. Whether serving as a drill sergeant, instructor, reception support, or leadership, YOU are part of that transformation. The magnitude of responsibility is certainly not lost on me, and I am grateful for your contributions. I got to see the fantastic work our Soldiers do recently to my trip to Fort Jackson. Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Kaim and I got to meet with 98th Training Division Soldiers supporting our active duty teammates at Fort Jackson. They were enthusiastic about welcoming America’s newest Warriors into our Army. We also witnessed 98th Training Division Soldiers conducting a culminating training event for U.S. Navy Sailors heading OCONUS for land-based missions. As part of Task Force Marshall, our drill sergeants trained our Navy friends to shoot, move and communicate under fire. One Navy captain who was part of the training, told me that it was the one of the very best training experiences he has had in his decades long career. Our drill sergeants also gain valuable knowledge working with another service, something that definitely enhances our joint readiness.
Brig. Gen. Dave Samuelsen CG, 98th Training Division (IET)
From the COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR ood day wantedmissioninSoldiers!IroquoisAswearetheheightofourseason,Itotakethe opportunity to thank each and every one of you for the hard work and effort you put forth ensuring we provide the Army and Nation the best warfighters in the world. Whether you are a drill sergeant, instructor, direct-support Soldier, or a valued member of a staff, you all play important roles in shaping our Nation’s Army and none of this would be possible without your dedication and effort.
Leadership asks a lot of the Soldiers and it is definitely not the old model of one weekend a month, two weeks a year. We are asking you to continually give more “Selfless Service,” and I know it can be overwhelming at times. While it is true that if you want to succeed, get ahead, and set yourself apart from your peers, you will need to continue to give more. Just remember it is in the service of the Soldiers you lead! Here is what I ask of you, here and now as you are reading this. Find some time for yourself. Time to decompress, time to reflect and be grateful for the people in our lives. You are not alone, and there is no hardship you cannot overcome. Never forget you have an entire Division behind you as ell. You have someone you can call and talk to, and if you feel you don’t, you can call ME!!!! My point is this, Soldier care can be something as simple as having a conversation with your battle buddy, your old friend from the past, or a family member. Whatever that looks like for you, but I am asking you to start the conversation. Through dialog, you might find out they need you, or you might realize you feel better yourself just talking to someone. If you aren’t the extrovert type, then find time to be introspective on your own. Do what relaxes you: read, workout, meditate, go for a walk—whatever it is that helps you put things in perspective. Thank your family and friends for being there for you. I realize life is hectic and the demands and pressures of trying to balance family, civilian career, and Army career can seem overwhelming, but we all stand shoulder to shoulder as brothers and sisters in uniform. For this, I am grateful! “Hardships prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” -C.S. Lewis
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Speaking of partnerships, Command Sgt. Maj. Kaim and I met with Command Sgt. Maj. Jackson, the new Commandant of the Drill Sergeant Academy, and Command Sgt. Maj. Solomon, the Deputy Commandant. It was a great pleasure meeting with noncommissioned officers of their caliber and learning about the Drill Sergeant Academy. I look forward to our continued partnership with the entire team there. Finally, for those of you who have not heard my NCO Speech—the NCO Corps is the greatest asset of the U.S. Army. Other armies see our NCO Corps as the model of what they want, but find difficult to achieve. The U.S. Army NCO is the best at taking intent and turning into positive action and is the one to Cause Stuff to Move. It is truly an honor serving in a Division and Command that is NCO centric!
WORK LIFE BALANCE G
ne of the greatest things about being the 104th Training Division Commanding General is that I get to recognize our Soldiers for excellent performance. My favorite way to recognize our Soldiers is by personally presenting them with our command coin. This provides me with the opportunity to shake their hand, look them in the eyes, and to say thank you for their excellent performance. It also provides me with an opportunity to share the 104th Division’s history that is represented in the command coin. The 104th Division’s command coin is a larger replica of the division’s unit insignia. The design is based on the historical actions of the division while training for and campaigning in World War II. Its most striking feature is our mascot, the Timberwolf. The establishment of the Timberwolf as the 104th Division’s mascot can be traced to the division’s activation for World War II. With the outbreak of World War II, the 104th Infantry Division was activated at Camp Adair, Oregon, on September, 15 1942. Over the next two years, the unit would train throughout the Pacific Northwest to get ready for combat. Many of their training areas were inhabited by timberwolves. The timberwolves would frequent the division base camps in hopes of getting some food. It got to the point where whenever the division was out in the field, there was sure to be timberwolves in the area. Before long, the division adopted the timberwolf nickname. The Timberwolf on the coin can be seen howling up in the air, no doubt communicating with some other members of its pack that the 104th Infantry Division was in the area. After a year of training, the 104th Infantry Division received a new commander, Maj. Gen. Terry Allen. Allen was an experienced warfighter, who had commanded the 1st Infantry Division in North Africa and Sicily during the early years of World War II. During his time with the 1st Infantry Division, Allen determined that a unit could gain an advantage over the enemy if they became skilled at fighting at night. Under the direction of their commander, the 104th Infantry Division became the first U.S. Army division to be trained to fight in nighttime conditions. Allen stressed that night fighting required well-disciplined fit troops with map-reading proficiency, orientation to night movement and skilled in patrolling. He also stressed that the battle plans must be simple, with key terrain features as objectives. This ability would greatly benefit the division during its combat deployment to Europe as they used them to great effect with minimal casualties. This ability led to the second unit nickname, Nightfighters. NIGHTFIGHTERS is inscribed in silver across the bottom of the command coin. The 104th Infantry Division arrived in France on September 7, 1944. From there, they would go to the Belgian-Dutch border where they participated in an allied offensive to liberate the Netherlands from the German army. After that offensive operation, the Division reverted to defensive positions and was assigned a sector to defend against Hitler’s last major offensive on the Western Front, which came to be known as the Battle of the Bulge. From December 15, 1944 to February 22, 1945, the Timberwolves held strong against the German army attack. After its unsuccessful attempt to split the Allied Force’s defensive line, the German army would retreat, and the Allied Forces, including the 104th Infantry Division, would pursue. It was during this pursuit that the significance of two somewhat hidden features on the command coin came into play. A bayonet is across the top of the coin, and a hand grenade is centered at the bottom. During one night attack, the 104th Infantry Division Soldiers would rely on these weapons. They were issued hand grenades and bayonets (with no ammunition for their rifles) and told to close with and destroy the enemy. The Timberwolves were instructed that anyone firing a weapon was an enemy and should be attacked.
Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, commanding general of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), presents the division’s coin to Staff Sgt. Terra Watson, Sgt. 1st Class Robinson Spencer and Capt. Mary Schafer during a town hall event for 4th Battalion, 414th Regiment, 1st Brigade, on April 26, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.
Using these methods honed in the Pacific Northwest during their training for war, the 104th Infantry Division successfully completed over 195 days of continuous combat without giving up ground to the enemy once. Much like their timberwolf mascot, the 104th Infantry Division utilized their nocturnal skills and hunted their prey (the German army) at night to conserve ammunition. Much like our 104th Infantry Division forefathers, the current Timberwolves continue to pursue excellence as they train the next generation of leaders.
From Timberwolves supporting Reserve Officer Training Corps programs, who make due with limited resources to provide topnotch training during field training exercises and Cadet Summer Training, to Timberwolves who provide new cadets with an introduction to the Army during Cadet Basic Training, the 104th Training Division Soldiers continue a great legacy of excellence. Timberwolves, be proud of your division history and legacy that you continue to build.
Brig. Gen. Rodney Fischer CG, 104th Training Division (IET)
COMMANDING GENERAL
From the TRAINING DIVISION
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Timberwolves, O
(LT)104th
TRAINING COMMAND (IET)108th CSM (Ret.) Paul Edward Secrest September 5, 1950 –December 13, 2021 CSM (Ret.) Tony Eugene Hamby November 23, 1936 –February 22, 2022 CSM Henry(Ret.)Edgar Chapin February 8, 1935 –August 6, 2019 SFC DecemberJuneCharlesRobert(Ret.)“Bob”Shumate24,1937–4,2017 MS Earl(Ret.)Robert Lattimore April 24, 1944 –May 22, 2014 1Sgt Robert C. Hahn February(Ret.)18,1937 –December 8, 2019 SFC AugustCharlie(Ret.)Johnson22,1927 –December 19, 2020 NO PICTURE PROVIDED: CSM (Ret.) William “Bill” Crawford Ervin, September 21, 1946 – December 9, 2014 (Ret.) Earl Eli Bost III, May 16. 1939 – May 9, 2005 The 108th Training Command (IET) In Memory of
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ARMY SENIORRESERVEENLISTED COUNCIL
ommand Sgt. Maj. Andrew Lombardo, Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Reserve Command, hosted the Army Reserve Senior Enlisted Council (AR-SEC) in San Antonio, Texas, June 11, 2022, ensuring all the units are maximizing use of quotas for noncommissioned officer professional military education courses. The AR-SEC is composed of nominative command sergeants major who serve at two-star general officer commands and direct reporting one star general officer commands from across the Army Reserve.
The 108th Training Command, G-3/7, was selected to brief on how the command was successful in executing Senior Leader Course quotas, positive impacts, and challenges. Although challenging, the 108th TC’s success was accomplished by ensuring all unauthorized reservations were removed and substituted with Soldiers in the FY21 Order of Merit Scheduling Priority list and exhaust all FY22 quotas. Quota managers for the entirety of the command enrolled all but seven of the 247 senior NCOs from OML 1-60 in SLC. This effectiveness ensured a 97 percent effective quota utilization and enrollment.The108th TC’s desired end result is to exhaust all quotas allocated for the command, work diligently to locate the available seat, schedule Soldiers according to the list while keeping OML integrity, and ensure Soldiers are notified of the reservation. At the command level, managers maximized time while staying driven, focused, determined, and committed. This drive extends beyond the training command level and is reaching the division, brigade, battalion and ultimately the company level. It is also being applied to the Basic Leaders Course as well as the Advanced Leaders Course to ensure all Soldiers across the command at every level of leadership are receiving the appropriate education at the appropriate time. Get after it! There is no Stopping!
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FALLEN SOLDIERS
By Tran Longmoore / The Saline Post) aline marked the Memorial Day holiday in traditional fashion May 30, with its first parade since 2019 and a ceremony at Oakwood Cemetery. Every year, Americans honor the servicemen and women who died in service of the country on Memorial Day. Salinians traditionally marked the occasion with a parade along Michigan Avenue and service at the cemetery. Due to the pandemic, Saline did not schedule a parade in 2020 and 2021. A service was held at the cemetery in 2021. The parade’s return was treated with sunny blue skies and warm weather. The crowd wasn’t exactly thick. People spread out to find places in the shade along US-12, between Harris Street and Monroe Street. Some of the largest crowds were outside of St. Paul’s. The parade was led by a Saline Police Department cruiser driven by Sgt. Chris Boulter. Four members of the Civil Air Patrol were the first marchers in the parade. Next up were members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Washtenaw County Chapter 310. This year, the parade’s Grand Marshal was U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Andrew J. Juknelis, [Commanding General of the 108th Training Command (IET)]. Councilor’s Dean Girbach and Kevin Camero-Sulak held the Saline City Council banner, as Councilor Janet Dillon and Mayor Brian Marl walked behind them. The local Knight of Columbus chapter carried their banner the length of the parade. Hundreds of people who watched the parade followed to Oakwood Cemetery.VeteranTim Driscoll was emcee once again.
“Today is our Memorial Day in Saline, Michigan. The time, the day, it stops the clock of our hurried lives to honor our country’s military men and women who have died for this country’s freedom, safety and future,” Driscoll said. “Our Nation is a beacon to the world, for what is possible and a beacon to show other countries what they should strive for. I wish they would pay attention.”
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE RETURNS TO SALINE AS COMMUNITY HONORS
On a holiday dedicated to honoring our war dead, there were many references to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Dear Lord, let freedom ring. We
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U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Andrew J. Juknelis, Grand Marshal of the parade, served with Col. Eric Engelmeier in Iraq. Juknelis said the Saline community would have been proud of the service of their Soldiers in Iraq. “They really made a difference in the war effort and they made a positive impact on the lives of the Iraqi people,” Juknelis said.
“The sacrifice of these Soldiers and Sailors united a fractured Nation,” Marl said, “helped eradicate slavery, and the malignancy of intolerance and subjugation. But the cost was so very high. Only the unknowing would deny or disregard the level of selflessness or sacrifice. Far too many paid the ultimate price for dignity and freedom. They died for it. As the song goes, ‘as he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free.’” Marl asked the audience if they would honor those who sacrificed by living good lives.
“On this Memorial Day, Americans will honor veterans who have served this country, and especially remember those who sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom. They fought and sacrificed so that others might live in peace - free from fear, tyranny and aggression,” Juknelis said.
10 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM TRAINING COMMAND (IET)108th pray daily for our heroes for making it so. The truth is, my heart aches with every beat for all the countries’ people that are under the utmost total destruction of their cities and towns by the communists,” Driscoll said.
“Will you live a life of zest and enthusiasm, contributing to the dignity of man? Will you live for and fight for a more just society? Will you recommit yourself to basic American values? Honesty. Service. Dedication and hard work. Will you continue to pray for, care for and revere all those who serve causes greater than themselves? I truly hope that you will,” Marl said. Marl said that despite America’s imperfections, it is an exceptional place.
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free, While God is marching on. Marl tied the lyrics to the Civil War and quoted former President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, noting that 800,000 Americans died during the Civil War.
“Today our thoughts are full of thankfulness and pride as we reflect on our Nation’s heritage of liberty under law and the continuing expansion of Democratic ideals around the globe.” Mayor Brian Marl began his remarks by highlighting the lyrics of abolitionist Julia Ward Howe’s Hymn of the Republic.
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea, With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me.
The official birthplace of Memorial Day is considered to be Waterloo, New York, which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866. They hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of Soldiers with flowers and flags. Originally known as “Decoration Day” in the years following the Civil War, it became a federal holiday in 1971. What started as an event to honor those lost during the Civil War, Americans in various towns and cities began holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen Soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers. Once the United States became embroiled in World War I, the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, followed of course by World War II, The Korean War, The Vietnam War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; sadly, just to name a few. One such Soldier was 19 year-old Spc. Christopher T. Monroe from Kendallville, Indiana. This eager and enthusiastic unit supply specialist, beloved among his friends and fellow Soldiers, had deployed to Iraq as part of the 785th Military Police Battalion from Fraser, Michigan. As part of an important military police mission, on October 25, 2005, he escorted the remains of a deceased detainee from Camp Bucca to Talil Air Base for autopsy. On the way back, his convoy stopped to render aid to a civilian victim of a car accident. That’s the kind of guy he was. Doing his duty, helping others. Unfortunately, he was struck and killed at the scene by another vehicle driven by a private military contractor. The unit and of course his family and community, were devastated to learn of this tragic, non-combat fatality. He had hoped to become an MP and get promoted to sergeant, and although he didn’t get to see that happen, he is known to everyone in the 300th MP Brigade as Sgt. Monroe. They say there are angels in our midst and young Christopher was certainly one of them. I wanted everyone here to know about him, he is here in your midst, an American Soldier doing his duty, taken too soon, and you would have all been really proud to know him. While we observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, decorating the graves of Soldiers with flowers and flags, holding family gatherings and participating in parades, please remember and pray for the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country, dedicated to the worthy cause of freedom. Not one of them died in vain. God bless you all and may our American heroes rest in peace. In the words of the great General George Patton’s Soldiers’ Prayer: “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived!” Thank you for your reverence and patriotism.
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Message from the Grand Marshal, Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis
ood afternoon, veterans, Honorable Mayor Brian Marl, citizens of the great city of Saline, families, and friends. Thank you for inviting me to participate in the wonderful return of the Saline Memorial Day parade for the first time since 2019. I want to say a special hello and thank you to the Commander of American Legion Post 322, David Saims, and the Commander of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 310, Stan Harrison. Thank you for being here today to support your communities and our country. And thank you, Mr. Tim Driscoll for your efforts to coordinate this parade and ceremony. What a beautiful day! I am humbled and deeply honored to be here. In 2007, I was assigned to the 300th Military Police Brigade down the road in Inkster and deployed with them to conduct military detention operations in Iraq. That’s how I came to meet one of my best friends, Col. Eric Engelmeier, while we worked together over the year that followed. I was new to the unit, I wasn’t even an MP, and I can say without reservation that you would have been so proud of the service of your fellow Michiganders. These good people, many members of the U.S. Army Reserve and the Michigan Army National Guard, really made a difference in the overall effort and a positive impact in the lives of the Iraqi people. If any of you 300th MP Spartans are here today, I look forward to seeing you again and thank you for taking me in, then and now.
SALINE, MICHIGAN MEMORIAL DAY PARADE:
Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis (Photo by Tran Longmoore / The Saline Post)
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Of course, Memorial Day is about much, much more than honoring the veterans and servicemembers who live among us. Since 1868, we have come together in our communities, towns, and villages around the world, to place flowers and flags on the graves of those Americans who have given their last full measure of devotion to the United States and the Constitution. On this Memorial Day, Americans honor veterans who have served this great country and especially remember those who have sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom. From across North and South America to the Middle East, from battlefields in Europe and Africa, Vietnam, Korea, and throughout the Pacific, they fought and sacrificed so others might live in peace, free from the fear of tyranny and aggression. Today, our hearts are full of thankfulness and pride as we reflect on our Nation’s enduring heritage of liberty under law and on the continuing expansion of democratic ideals around the globe.
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Benedict grinned with triumph still shining on his face, “That was genuinely a shock to me, I don’t think I’m a great marksman. I didn’t think that I did too great on my M4, my pistol qual was a 29 out of 30. I know that I only missed 1 shot. Benedict also credits his score to his experience as a military police and the amount of time that he has had on machine gun reloads. Graves asked about the rigorous schedule and lack of sleep that they operated on. Benedict responds jovially, “I didn’t get a whole lot of sleep the first few days. I remember sleeping on the concrete a few times. I woke up to the sound of helicopters.” “I didn’t know where I was at a few times, very disoriented because I was so exhausted. I could fall asleep right on the spot. But I’m better
Immediately after the Awards Ceremony, Benedict shared his thoughts on the competition and his momentous accomplishment with Staff Sgt. Graves in the U.S. Army Reserve’s Facebook: Live Award Ceremonies coverage.
CPL BENEDICT: A TRUE IRON MAN
When asked about looking back and his expectations going in, Benedict smiled with the unmistakable look of someone looking back after being put through the wringer, “It is what I thought it was going to be. It was a lot of hard competition” He continued, “I was thoroughly impressed with the scale of the competition that was here, everyone was very squared away. The whole time I didn’t know where I sat. Everyone was kicking butt.”
Transitioning to Benedict’s other noteworthy Top Marksman award Graves asked, “What is it like to be the best shot out of 38 people?”
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By Capt. Eli Swaim, 95th Training Division Public Affairs Officer ot every soldier can hang up their P.C. at the end of the day knowing that they are truly the best warrior. Since our origins, the 95th-Iron Men of Metz have stood taller, fought longer, and trained harder than our peers and it continues to show. When we wear the iconic 95th patch on our arm we carry with it a legacy and pride that continues to go to this day. One of our own, Spc. Brady Benedict (who was recently promoted to corporal) of 1st-354th, Charlie Company, 3rd Brigade, 95th Training Division out of Stillwater, Oklahoma won the title both Top Marksman and Best Warrior in the U.S Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition. This competition saw many competitors across the entirety of the Army Reserve put their skills to the test over several long days of training and evaluation in order to determine the Army Reserve’s top Soldiers. Approximately 40 Soldiers from across the Nation traveled to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, to compete in the 2022 U.S. Best Warrior Best Squad Competition from May 14-21, 2022. These elite Soldiers endured some of the Army’s toughest challenges designed to stretch the Soldier’s minds and bodies to the limit. The Nation’s best Soldiers completed the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), Swim Event, Zodiac Insertion Course, Confidence and Conditioning Course, Land Navigation Day/Night, Range Day, Tunnel Event, Combined Arms Collective Training Facility, Sniper Tower Event, and 12-Mile Ruck March.
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 13 now, well-rested now. My body was sore most of the competition, but I’m well recovered now.”
“From here, I’m going back to Stillwater Oklahoma to train up for the Department of the Army competition and for the Drill Sergeant Academy here in the future.” As a new member of the 95th family, Benedict certainly has lived up to the legacy of the Iron Men of Metz. From his battle buddies to his company leadership, and all the way up to the 108th command, everyone is proud of Benedict and wishes him luck at both the Drill Sergeant Academy and the Department of the Army’s Best Warrior Competition in September 2022. We at the 95th will continue to watch Benedict’s career with great interest.
Lastly, Graves inquired where Benedict plans on going from here.
The Expert Soldier Badge signifies those who have mastered the fundamentals of Army combat training, and the U.S. Army Reserve’s first commissioned officer to receive it wasn’t just a good soldier — he was better than good.
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By Sgt. Joline Ngo, 95th Training Division Public Affairs NCOIC ORT SILL, Okla. –
According to the Army Training and Doctrine Command, only 19 percent of 5000 Soldiers who have sought the ESB have successfully passed.
Young explained that at the beginning of the course, his instructors informed them that out of the hundreds of participants there, they only expected about five of them to graduate.
Young explained that during one of his sleepless nights, he made a special request to have weapons brought back to their containment area so that they’d be able to spend time working on them. He said it had been a while since he had his hands on them and wanted to refamiliarize himself with it.
“I’m very excited to be the first officer and U.S. Army Reserve to have the ESB,” said Young. “I’m looking forward to bringing more officers and enlisted people into the fold and growing us out the best way possible, while doing it the right way.”
“When I was ready to hit the wall or quit, I just kept going forward,” he said. “Every day was just a kind of a blessing because after every day, I made it to the next day.” He told himself every day that he just wanted to make it to the next day and that he wanted to keep going as a motivation to himself. He said that when an event was hard and he was getting stressed out, he would picture the badge on his chest. Now that his hard work and determination has paid off, Young is looking at going to Airborne or Pathfinder school. He said that if you, or a Soldier you know, are seeking to earn the ESB, he advises that you begin studying and preparing yourself mentally and physically as soon as youThecan.Expert Soldier Badge is a coveted military decoration. It takes tremendous effort, patience, and grit to complete just one of the many tasks to earn this badge. Even though it requires intense focus, there is a lot of fun mixed in with the hard work, explained Young. “I want to add a shout out and special thanks to my Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Jessica Sanders, for coming to my graduation and supporting me along the way.
“It took a lot of training and a lot of dedication and a lot of sleepless nights of pushing myself outside of my comfort zone in order to accomplish it,” he said.
Civil Affairs Leads the Way.”
Capt. Christopher Young is the first male commissioned officer to earn this badge for his unprecedented level of military prowess and readiness in everything from weapons handling to leadership roles at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.
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“I spent many hours just staying up working the mechanics of the different weapons systems to make sure that I had it at a level where I was comfortable and could test out on,” he said. Other than sleepless nights, Young recalls losing between 10 and 15 pounds due to the physical and mental stress he experienced during the course.
THE EXPERT SOLDIER
He described his experience as being one of the hardest things he’s ever done in his military career. The decoration was to be given only to those who possessed extraordinary skill in weapons use, tactics and leadership. It requires careful training, discipline, and patience.
“You think, alright, well that’s just somebody being very overzealous,” he said, “but as the days went by, and people would be escorted out, you started to see that that was a realization.”
After Zero-Day, they entered into Air Assault School. The school is broken into three distinct phases: Phase 1 – Combat Assault, Phase 2 –Sling load Operations, and Phase 3 –Rappelling and culminating in a 12mile ruck march. After everything only around 50 percent of the class makes it through to graduation.
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By Capt. Eli Swaim, 95th Training Division Public Affairs Officer he best, of the best, of the best! Four Soldiers representing the 95th Training Division lived up to the name ‘Iron Men of Metz.’ In early May, Staff Sgt. Pieper of Echo 2-377th, Staff Sgt. Blake of Delta 2-415th, Sgt. Gutierrez, and Sgt. 1st Class Ross of HHC 2-354th graduated from Air Assault School.
At Air Assault School, Soldiers are trained on the missions performed by rotary wing (helicopter) aircraft, aircraft safety, aero-medical evacuation procedures, pathfinder operations, principles and techniques of combat assaults, rappelling techniques, and sling-load operations. The bulk instruction covers the minimum support assets and is adaptable to organic aviation elements armywide. Both the main instruction and the additional instruction are conducted in a high-tempo and physically demanding classroom/ field environment. On the infamous ‘Zero Day’ up to 30 percent of attendees fail out of the course to be sent home or recycled. They hit the ground running with numerous ‘smoke sessions,’ followed by the wellknown Air Assault Obstacle Course consisting of The Tough One, Inclining Wall, Low-Belly Over, Confidence Climb, Six Vaults, Swing Stop Jump, Low Crawl, High Step Over, and Weaver.
AIR ASSAULT!
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Pieper was assigned as 2nd Platoon’s Platoon Sergeant on Zero Day and held the extra responsibility throughout the remainder of the course. He was noted by cadre for ensuring his platoon met all hit times and also for keeping his Soldiers informed about what was going on in the next day’s training. Despite daily losing varying numbers of Soldiers, Pieper maintained accurate accountability, an impressive feat. Blake was 1st Platoon’s Platoon Sergeant for his entire time in the course as well. He also had to take charge of the bays after hours and was handing out extra items that he brought with him to Soldiers who were missing items. Whenever the student leadership was dealing with cadre’s instructions, Blake took over student-first sergeant responsibilities whenever the student first sergeant was not around. As a senior noncommissioned officer, Ross was selected for extra responsibility from the beginning, and held the position of first sergeant for the entire course. Ross was noted for leadership beyond his assigned role. Ross was instrumental to his team and helped many of those in his platoon prepare for future training and fight through copious amounts of the mental/ physical stress to carry on through to graduation. Down to the last ruck march, a three-hour, 12-mile march with equipment layout at the end, Ross inspired and rallied those around him to carry on through to theGutierrezend. passed the course with no issue, which is in itself a distinction. He presented impeccable military bearing regardless of the situation. Gutierrez was not placed into a leadership role, but embodied the highest standards of physical and mental resilience ‘leading the way’ throughout the course. Air Assault School is regarded as one of the military’s premier schools. Fast-paced and both physically and mentally demanding, the training is commonly known as the 11 toughest days in the U.S. Army. These select four representing the 95th Training Division found themselves equal to the task and can now proudly wear the 95th Division Patch and their Air Assault Badges.
Col. Matthew Lawson (incoming 2nd Brigade Commander) passes the colors to Brig. Gen. Dave Samuelsen (98th Training Division Commanding General) during the Change of Command Cere mony on June 5.
Maj. Gen. Andrew Juknelis (Commanding General of the 108th Training Command), Col. Matthew Lawson (incoming 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division Commander), Col. Ther on Spurgeon (outgoing 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division) and Brig. Gen. Dave Samu elsen (98th Training Division Commanding General) gather together for a photograph.
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98TH TRAINING DIVISION HOLDS BRIGADE CHANGE OF COMMAND
Col. Theron Spurgeon, the outgoing 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division, stands be fore Brig. Gen. David Samuelsen (right), the 98th Training Division Commanding Gen eral, Col. Matthew Lawson (front), the incoming 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division Commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Randles (left), the 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division Command Sergeant Major, during the passing of the colors.
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ort Jackson, South Carolina -- Soldiers, friends and families gathered together to bid farewell to the outgoing 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) commander, Col. Theron Spurgeon, and welcome the incoming commander, Col. Matthew Lawson, at a Fort Jackson, S.C. Change of Command Ceremony on June 5, 2022. Spurgeon, a northern California native, has the follow-on assignment as the Operations and Plans Directorate at the 108th Training Command (IET). Lawson, a Maryland native, comes to the 98th Training Division from the Army Reserve Medical Command, where he served as the Information Directorate.
Samuelsen previously served as the Deputy Commanding General for Operations, 200th Military Police Command. His previous assignments include: Deputy Commanding General, 80th Training Command; Brigade Commander, 290th Military Police Brigade; Command IG, 76th Division; Command IG, 103rd Sustainment Command; Commander, 159th Military Police Battalion (CID); Combat Trainer, 86th Division; Commander, 1114th Mobilization Support Battalion; Executive Officer, 1116th Mobilization Support Battalion; Operations Officer, 3-329 Info Ops Battalion; Mobilization as Provost Marshal for North Kuwait; Logistics Officer, 9th Brigade, 100th Division; Logistics Officer, 2-339 Basic Combat Training Battalion, 84th Division; Commander, 32nd Military Police Company; Detachment Commander, Det 1, 32nd Military Police Company; Platoon Leader, 3rd Platoon, 32nd Military Police Company.
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98TH TRAINING DIVISION WELCOMES COMMANDINGNEWGENERAL
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By Sgt. Jeff Harris urora, Colorado – The 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) welcomed their new commanding general, Brig. Gen. David M. Samuelsen, in a Change of Command Ceremony that was part of the May Green Tab Huddle.Samuelsen started his military career enlisting into the U.S. Air Force in 1987 and served in England as a Security Police Specialist. In 1993, he enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard, was selected for Officer Candidate School, and commissioned in July 1994 as a second lieutenant in the Military Police Corps.
Samuelsen resides in Milton, Wisconsin with his wife Erin, and daughter Lindsey, whom is a student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and his son, Nathan, whom is a student at the University of WisconsinMilwaukee.Samuelsen owns and operates a manufacturing company and a real estate holding company in his hometown of Milton.
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The 98th Training Division recognizes Col. Don Ellison for serving as commanding general for over 10 months. Ellison received the meritorious service medal for his strategic vision, command guidance and mentorship. In his tenure, Ellison increased the capacity of the Army and the Navy, honed the capabilities of the 98th Training Division by training two thousand initial entry Soldiers and produced more than 360 drill sergeants.
98th TRAINING DIVISION (IET)
The new 98th Commanding General is a graduate of the Army War College, Joint Forces Staff College, Command and General Staff College-Intermediate Level Education, Advanced Operations and Warfighting Course, the Army Inspector General School, Military Police Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, and Company, Battalion and Brigade Pre-Command Courses. He earned a Master’s Degree in Management and Leadership from Webster University, a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College and a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the University of Wisconsin. His awards and decorations include the Army Meritorious Service Medal (4th award), Army Commendation Medal (5th award), Army Achievement Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (7th award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd award), USAF Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with M Device) and Air Force Training Ribbon.
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rill sergeants noncommissionedand officers from Delta, Echo and companiesFoxtrotof3rd/323rd Infantry Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) welcomed 57 players and six coaches from the James F. Byrnes Football Team to Fort Jackson for an Army Experience in June.The 98th Training Division cadre welcomed the high school team to Fort Jackson for this first-timein-history event, and immediately assigned them to barracks, where they distributed some Army Basic Training styleOvermotivation.theweekend, the cadre pushed the football team through the Fit to Win Course, the Team Development Course and an Army Combat Fitness Test. The students were also given a chance to eat Meals Ready to Eat, and interact with drill sergeants and other cadre who shared their Army stories. For many, this opportunity was their only real exposure to Soldiers and Army life. The unique event was spearheaded by Coach Reggie Shaw and 1st Sgt. Walter Snow of Echo Company. For Snow, who is James F. Byrnes High School graduate, it was a way to give back and help students who may not know what they want to do after high school. “When I graduated high school, there was nothing at the other end of the stage for me that night. I don’t want anyone else to feel that.” So, whether it’s the Army, or another branch of service, I wanted these kids to know there are options out there for them, explained Snow.
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SOLDIERS GIVE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM AN ARMY EXPERIENCE
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Soldiers Give Football Team an Army Experience | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022
98th TRAINING DIVISION (IET) THE GRIFFON |
The National Infantry Association (NIA) was started by Infantry leadership in 1994 with a mission to share the camaraderie of like-minded Soldiers and citizens who believe in maintaining the Infantry spirit. The 98th Training Division takes pride in their Soldiers with the Infantry spirit and encourages them to teach and mentor future Soldiers coming into today’s Army. However, just like all leaders, Infantryman surround themselves with likeminded individuals of resiliency, honor, determination, and courage. Reserve Soldiers, like in the 108th Training Command, have the opportunity to submerge themselves into an association that gives just that, while also still being able to serve. The NIA is always welcoming new members to join. In many ways the NIA is a non-gender specific fraternity, where Soldiers can reach out to one another, past or present, to be counseled and mentored not only in their military career, but in life outside the Army as well.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONINFANTRY
The NIA recognizes, through awards programs, outstanding Infantrymen and Infantry supporters to preserve the Infantry heritage through support of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center at Patriot Park located right outside of Fort Benning, Georgia. The Order of Saint Maurice is given to Soldiers and civilians who have served the Infantry community with distinction. Made a significant contribution in support of the Infantry, and represent the highest standards of integrity, moral character, professional competence, and dedication to duty. The National Infantry Association encourages Soldiers in the Army Reserve and National Guard to join their association so they can be of assistance to further elevate Soldiers careers through mentorship and networking opportunities. “So our citizenSoldiers have a great opportunity because inside of their units, there’s a huge mentorship opportunity, right? So I tell Soldiers that are in Guard units all the time; Hey, when you get in there, remember to find one of the guys that you know, first sergeant, staff sergeant, you know, whoever is a member of the NIA,“ saysNIANelson.membership strengthens the Infantry’s voice to be heard by decision makers and is not difficult to join. Chapters are the core element of the NIA and can help the Infantry Soldier on a local level. Various activities may include meetings, picnics, and sponsored events. If Soldiers are interested in joining a great organization, they should visit the upstairs of National Infantry Museum located outside of Fort Benning, Georgia or join online at membership/.https://infantryassn.com/
“It’s a support network from top to bottom. Even today, a Medal of Honor recipient, as high as you can get, if he needs something, he calls. We’re there to support even a private. We stop and talk to him downstairs. He’s fixing to go to a Guard unit, Reserve unit, or active duty; He needs something. We stop what we’re doing, and we go help.” explains Brian Nelson, Chapter Liaison of the NIA. The association consist of many prominent members, Ret. Col. Ralph Puckett and General Hayden, as well as the 98th Training Division’s own Order of Saint Maurice recipient, Command Sgt. Maj. Todd Kaim.
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By Sgt. Jeff Harris ort Benning — Once an sergeantsInfantryman.alwaysInfantryman,anSomanydrillinour command are part of a rich and deep culture serving in the oldest branch of our Army, the Infantry. The Infantry is pridefully known as the Queen of Battle, dating in history back to 1775. Ten companies of riflemen were authorized by a resolution of the Continental Congress on June 14, 1775. However, the oldest Regular Army infantry regiment, the 3rd Infantry Regiment, was constituted on June 3, 1784, as the First American Regiment. In the Army Reserve, a Soldier may serve in a different capacity than the Infantry, but there is a way they can still stay involved.
The story begins a bit early, however…the day I took command of 2nd Brigade. That day, I asked my Command Sergeant Major, Jonathan Bentley, “Do we have a unit nickname?” I knew we had a unit motto, “Second to None!” but I was interested to know if we had a greeting of the day that included a unit nickname. Command Sgt. Maj. Bentley did not think so. I confirmed with a couple other members of my staff that we indeed did not have a nickname. Satisfied, I told the team that we would just be, “The” Brigade. In the months that followed, I would refer to our brigade as, “The Brigade.” Our greeting of the day became, “Made in The Brigade,” with the response being, “Second to None!” I had resigned myself to the idea that we would not have a nickname. That is until a fateful day winter day at Fort Jackson. In February 2021, we had been tasked to plan and host the Division Best Warrior Competition. While conducting a training area reconnaissance with my staff, my Brigade S6, Maj. Nick Charlton asked me a question, “What do W
A HEADDRESS ADDS A FEATHER: THE SPECIAL UNIT DESIGNATION OF 2ND BRIGADE, 98TH TRAINING DIVISION
By Col. Theron Spurgeon hat do you want your call sign to be?” asked my S6. That marked the start of a multi-month effort that ended in April 2022 when, at our headquarters at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, members from the 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division commemorated the award of the Special Unit Designation (SUD), “SENECA.”
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24 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM you want your call sign to be?” He was working on the signal annex to the Operation Order and needed to know what to put for all the station call signs. He suggested that since our higher headquarters was the Iroquois Division, perhaps it might be fitting to adopt the name of one of the five nations of the Iroquois Confederation?Wecouldonly reliably pronounce two of the five nations: Seneca and Mohawk. We all agreed that “Mohawk” had some word associations that we wanted to avoid (having recently been removed from AR 670-1), so we settled on, “Seneca.” But the real work of receiving an official unit designation had only just begun. What followed was an almost year-long process that included 2nd Brigade’s Operations Officer, Lt. Col. Mac Wood reaching out to the U.S. Army Office of Heraldry to inquire about the process of receiving a Special Unit Designation. The office advised Lt. Col. Wood to first receive the permission of the Seneca Nation to use their name. He then composed a letter to the Seneca Nation President, explaining who the 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division was and that we were seeking his permission to use the Seneca name as our Special Unit Designation. After multiple follow-up e-mails and phone calls to the president’s office, the answer to our question came back by e-mail in a one-word response, “Yes.”
At the designation ceremony on April 28, 2022, 2nd Brigade Commander, Col. Theron Spurgeon, read Lt. Col. Wood’s request letter aloud, before unit Historian, Staff Sgt. Alonso Davis read the designation award memo. The commander then encased the framed award certificate in the unit’s display case, before ordering his Assistant Operations Officer, Capt. Gregory Hotaling to post. As the final act of the ceremony, Col. Spurgeon handed Capt. Hotaling the Seneca Brigade’s feather, with special instructions to take the feather to the division headquarters and present to the command, symbolizing 2nd Brigade’s alliance with its higher headquarters. The 2nd Brigade command team would like to thank President Pagels and the Seneca Nation’s Ms. Leigh Ann Jackson, in the Office of the President, for their support and assistance. Second Brigade hopes to carry on a rich legacy and tradition of excellence, fitting of the designation, “SENECA.” A framed replica of the designation memo will be mailed to the Office of the President, memorializing the eternal relationship between 2nd Brigade and the Seneca Nation.
98th TRAINING DIVISION (IET)
Success! Awarded January 28, 2022, by the U.S. Army Chief of Military History, the official designation of “SENCA” marks an association between 2nd Brigade and the Seneca Nation, adding to the rich history of 2nd Brigade and the 98th Training Division. Years ago, the 98th Division received their Special Unit Designation, “IROQUOIS,” associating the division with the mighty Native American confederation. The 98th Division patch features the head of an Iroquois chief, with five feathers representing the five original Iroquois nations. Just as 2nd Brigade is largest brigade in the 98th Training Division, the Senecas were the largest of the original five Iroquois nations.
DRILL SERGEANTS TALK THE TALK, WALK THE WALK
The Norwegian Foot March is “definitely challenging,” said Staff Sgt. Kendel French, Golf Company, 3-330th Infantry Regiment. “It’s a faster pace than the timed ruck marches at Air Assault and many other U.S. Army schools.”GolfCompany first sergeant, Nicholas Hardy, noted, “People often get wrapped up thinking about the 25 lbs, but it’s the distance that gets you.” Soldiers who successfully met the time standard to earn this foreign skill badge encourage others to train for the 18.6 mile distance with progression, building up physically and mentally with longer distances.
Battalion Commander D
The Marksjmerket began in Norway in 1915 as a way to build familiarity between the military and civilian populations of Norway, especially new recruits. Today, the Norwegian Foot March requires participants to complete an 18.6 mile (30k) foot march with a 25 lb (11 kg) ruck, within a set time based on age and gender.
“At the end of the day, it comes down to ‘do you want it?’ Being a Soldier, it’s good to do something like this. I was dreading it, but I wanted to challenge myself,” said Staff Sgt. Marco Aguilar. These Infantry drill sergeants are more prepared to train America’s next generation of Infantrymen at Fort Benning, explained Hardy. “Pacing a tactical road march with trainees is different, lots of standing around and motivating them through it, but this is mind-clearing, being challenged to push yourself individually. It gives us perspective on trainees and their experience.”
By Lt. Col. Colleen Vermeulen,
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 25 uring (OneInfantryfromdrillTraining,AnnualInfantrysergeants3-330thRegimentStation Unit Training), 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division, coach and motivate trainees through their first tactical road marches at Fort Benning, Georgia. This spring, Soldiers from 3-330th Infantry Regiment have been planning routes, training for, and motivating one another to earn one of the most challenging armed forces skill badges, the Marsjmerket, or Norwegian Foot March.
INFANTRY
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nother year, another summer of providing the Nation’s next generation of leadership with seasoned professional instructors for Cadet Summer Training (CST) at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The value of documenting a week of set up for this nationally important event cannot be overstated. If one has ever wondered what goes into providing this critical service, or if there’s a need to educate the un-enlightened on successfully completing the priorities of work despite natural adversity, an invitation to read the following journal is in order. May 22 was primarily a travel and in-processing day for the first rotation at the CST 2022 for Enforcer Battalion...2nd Battalion, 319th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT). Our Soldiers left early in the morning to make the seven-to-eight-hour drive before the close of business, with most arriving in the early afternoon. First checking-in with the Cadet Command at the Copple Center to complete in-processing paperwork, the movement to barracks assignment for room and meal card issue followed. On the morning of May 23, van drivers picked up and signed for vehicles. The next day, the first stop was the land navigation site to identify the setup locations and to verify the navigation point locations with an eye to note and correct any deficiencies. Concurrently, the pace-count site was cleared and clearly marked with engineering tape. At day’s end, Task Force Wolf leadership conducted the orientation in-brief. On May 25, our team collected and transported materials and supplies to begin setup of the TOC (Training Operations Cell, the main hub for all activity on the lane), the cadet bleachers, and the compass verification area. Any identified course hazards were then marked with engineering tape and clear signage to prevent any accidents. Lightning and persistent weather paused preparations in the early afternoon, but after the weather cleared, the first three tents were set up by the end of the day using a bit of determination and resilience. On May 26, the TOC area tents were completed despite the resuming heavy persistent rain onsite. Setup of camouflage netting over the tents and training areas then began and included the bleachers, the compass verification site, and water sources providing key concealment from the air, but more crucially in this environment, much-needed shade to cool tent interiors and common areas. Before the end of the day, brush-clearing operations were completed for the compass verification point after the weather cleared up, enabling the final setup of the location. The medical tent took priority on May 27, along with camouflage netting on training areas and all lane checkpoints on the course, including respective water sources. Shade is important, but more brush clearing from checkpoints and water points on the course needed to occur to prep for the arrival of generators and lighting installation at the end of the day. After 12 hours on site, the final netting adjustments were completed and the site fully prepped for the Land Navigation Course to begin operations-- following course validation and arrival of the cadets. May 28th would kick off a welldeserved break for Memorial Day Weekend after a final validation of the course by CST leadership. Task Force Wolf leadership team provided a full barbecue meal at the barracks pavilion communal area for the team to thank everyone for their arduous work in less-than hospitable conditions ensuring the mission could begin on time and without issues. Willing and Able!
NOTES FROM THE FIRST WEEK OF CADET SUMMER TRAINING 2022
By Sgt. John R. Miller Jr. and Maj. Randy L. Bishop, 2nd Battalion, 319th Regiment 104th TRAINING DIVISION (LT)
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This May’s field training exercise was the third time Alpha Company assisted the cadet training program, and it has been a huge success for both the development of the cadets and drill sergeants. Drill sergeants and drill sergeant candidates from Alpha Company assist in many roles of the field training exercise, including leading the simulated training exercise lanes, land navigation and weapons familiarization. The most recent spring VMI field training exercise had 648 cadets in attendance.Duringthe fall exercise, VMI takes the time in the field to develop the candidates into their new roles. Drill sergeants and drill sergeant candidates use their knowledge and experience to mentor cadets on multiple situational training lanes with rotating groups of 20-30 cadets. Drill sergeants and candidates assist seniors soon to commission on running lanes. These lanes include react to contact, unit recon, grenade/claymore operation, and assault on an objective. The cadre from the 104th Training Division lead situational training exercise lanes throughout the weekend, advising MS3s on how to follow their troop leading procedures, unit movement, actions on the objective and after action reviews. Both take the time to work with all levels of the program, acting as mentors to the cadets by advising them on ways to become a better Soldier andByleader.thespring, those same cadets are expected to be proficient in their tasks. One of the benefits drill sergeants have in assisting both field exercises is being able to observe the development of the cadets over such a short period of time. Situational training exercise ;anes are also a great way for the drill sergeants and candidates to prepare for the Cadet Summer Training. While there, drill sergeants adopt a different role than they are used to. They are asked to become more of a mentor than an enforcer at Cadet Summer Training, and the field training exercise gives those who are new to the program an opportunity to see how they fit into their new roles. The face time between drill sergeants and cadets also gives the drill sergeants a better understanding as to the type of training they will be expected to do after graduation from Cadet Summer Training, better enhancing their mentorship skills.
For the past year, Alpha Company leadership and VMI Cadet Command have been developing their relationship and establishing ways that drill sergeants from the 2-317th can assist in the execution of their field training exercise.
ALPHA BATTALION, VMI/VT FTX SUPPORT MISSION
Drill sergeants from all companies and school cadres that participate in the combined training always express the desire to continue to build the working relationship in future joint training exercises.
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By Capt. Kyle Smith, A Co. Commander, and 1st Sgt. Jordan Thompson, A Co. First Sergeant n May, both Virginia Military Institute and Virginia Tech conducted their bi-annual field training exercise with support from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 317th Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 104thTraining Division.
Previous field training exercise support has been such an outstanding success that this past spring, Virginia Tech asked 2-317th for assistance running their M4 zero and qualification ranges. Soldiers from the 2-317th, led by Alpha Company, assisted both VT and Radford cadets as lane safeties and experienced shooters. Alpha Company’s relationship with VT is still in development, but it will continue to grow as VT plans to utilize the skilled drill sergeants and drill sergeant candidates of 2-317th for future field exercises. Not only do cadets and drill sergeants benefit from the training, the drill sergeants also greatly enjoy the positive impact they have on shaping future leaders. Participation in the field training exercise is such a positive experience that nearly 80 percent of Alpha Company volunteered for the mission when given the option. Alpha Company also extended the opportunity to support other companies within the 2-317th with strong participation.
I
COMPANY 2-317TH
D
RESERVE DRILL SERGEANTS
Capt. Michael J. Gilkerson, Commander, Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 317th Regiment, 2nd Brigade rill sergeants from Alpha and Bravo companies of the 2nd 317thBattalion,Regiment of the 104th Training Division have developed a partnership with the leadership, cadre, and cadets of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in Lexington, Virgina. The drill sergeants provided training, mentorship, and correction for 200300 VMI cadets during their spring and fall field training exercises.
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The fall field training exercise takes place shortly after the first years, or MS1s, arrive at VMI. This is a great introduction to Army field training. Bravo Company’s drill sergeants will mentor the fourthyear cadets, or MS4s, so they gain the experience necessary to train and lead the MS1s and MS2s before they are commissioned at the end of spring semester. The drill sergeants use the time-tested “crawl, walk, run” method of teaching to put the MS4s on the path to successful leadership in a field environment.
The fall and spring VMI field training exercises not only prepare the cadets for Cadet Summer Training, but also benefit the drill sergeants and drill sergeant candidates. The candidates get to see how it all works and are expected to follow the direction of the drill sergeants as they engage with cadets. This experience sets the tone and standards expected of our candidates and provides motivation to attend the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy to earn the coveted drill sergeant campaign cover and badge.
DSs McClintic and Jansen in instructor modeDS Stephanie Peterson providing face-to-face
VMI was founded in 1839 as the Nation’s first state military college. It grants degrees in 14 disciplines including engineering, science, and the liberal arts, and requires all cadets to participate in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Each field training exercise begins at the VMI Parade Field, where Bravo Company drill sergeants meet the participating cadets for a ruck march out to the training area. The route is approximately 3.5 miles long and culminates in a nice long hill enroute to the training area. Here the cadets and drill sergeants will bivouac and conduct several days of training.
SHARPEN SKILLS BY TRAINING VMI CADETS
instruction.VMICadets learning how to pull security and do medevac procedures
The process at VMI also builds esprit de corps across the 2-317th because all the companies have the opportunity to fill in and participate as well. This ensures that the battalion has cohesion when we come together during our summer mission at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The field training exercises also give the drill sergeants several opportunities to keep their skills sharp, so they hit the ground running during CST. If the 2-317th drill sergeants only worked with ROTC programs during CST, they would miss out on a fantastic winwin opportunity to increase their skill sets and time in front of cadets.
J Army Maj. Kathleen Rojewski, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, assigned to the 4th Bat talion, 414th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (Leader Training) partici pates in a town hall discussion during the battalion’s annual training at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, April 26, 2022. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Christian Venhuzien) Army Maj. Jennifer Nixon, of Puyallup, Washington, assigned to the 4th Battalion, 414th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (Leader Training) participates in a town hall discussion with Brig. Gen. Rodney Fischer, the division command er, during the battalion’s annual training at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, April 26, 2022. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Christian Venhuzien)
“It is not necessarily written hard and fast into the Cadet Command curriculum,” Ritter said. “We have some self interest and some interests with the total Army to figure out how to integrate ourselves as Reservists and to push that Reserve agenda. The nice thing is that it does actually dovetail with Cadet Command.”
The 4-414th is based at Joint Base Lewis McChord and falls under the 104th Training Division’s 1st Brigade.
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Army Capt. Dexter Wise, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, assigned to the 4th Battalion, 414th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (Leader Training) participates in a town hall discussion during the battalion’s annual training at Joint Base Lewis-Mc Chord, April 26, 2022. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Christian Venhuzien)
OINT BASE LEWISMCCHORD, Wash. – Months before Senior ROTC cadets hit the ground for Cadet Summer Training, Lt. Col. Jason Ritter had already begun an effort to better integrate recruiting opportunities for the Army Reserve into the time his team has with the students.
The commander of 4th Battalion, 414th Regiment (SROTC), knows that it could be a tough sell for an Army component in need of young officers to grow into leaders.
For Ritter, the problem lies in how to make those moments quantifiable.“What’sit look like, what’s it mean to me, how’s it benefiting me.
“Me personally, I’ve started to recruit and position the Reserve a lot differently than how I conceptualized it before, like ‘hey it’s like a side weekend job that you do and it’s only if you have a lot of flexibility in your job,’” he said. Brant works with cadets at Southern Methodist University and the University of Texas at Dallas, both in Dallas.
Capt. Christian Venhuizen, Public Affairs Officer, 104th Training Division (Leader Training)
Ritter’s elevator pitch to those considering an Army Reserve position as an APMS, “My sales pitch is this is the best unit in the Army Reserve. I could argue that point pretty well. You have a ton of freedom to maneuver; you’re allowed to execute with minimal guidance. For a lot of us, working with cadets is like drinking from the fountain of youth. It reminds a lot of us that that’s the way I was. I wasn’t jaded by the Army yet. I haven’t been beaten into submission by Power Points. I was eager to learn.”
So I think trying to actually define it a little better and then measure it right, because you can’t really tell if you’re successful unless you can measure it,” said the battalion commander. “So that’s something we struggle with, how do you measure it? That’s my kind of goal.” Brant’s initial approach to mentorship and career development boils down to simple questions. “What are you interested in? Why did you get in and why do you continue to serve? With cadets that gets a little easier because those two two questions are pretty close to each other at this point in their careers,” he said. Then you add in how careers change. Ritter left active duty just nine months before this annual training event with the 4-414.
Assistant professors of military science, like Maj. Brant Crandall, know the challenge. They talk through their experiences with each other during conference calls, and in-person during their administratively-focused annual training.
“Some of these adjunct faculty with the unit are so well integrated into those universities that they are the primary instructors for the MS1s. They’re the primary planners for field training exercises. They are running the PT [physical training] program,” said Ritter. “The Cadet Command’s mission to commission cadets is really going well and the fact that we are so well integrated into it, is what I’m getting at with the positivity.”
SROTC BATTALION FIGHTS TO SHARE RESERVE OPPORTUNITIES
A special forces officer, Brant came into the battalion looking at continuing his career and sharing what the Army gave him. “I think one of the things I really appreciated, I had a lot of mentors who set me up for success that these are the things you’re going to focus on in the Army. It starts with getting to know them,” he said. Like his battalion commander, Brant said his time to talk to cadets about their future has limitations. He is actively mentoring three cadets, all with different career goals, both military and civilian. “We know for a fact that a lot of that happens informally,” said Ritter. “What I’m most interested in, and I’ve had this conversation, is codifying that, making it more formal, working with Cadet Command to actually ensure that we have opportunities with the (Military Science 1 cadets), with those young cadets to say, ‘Hey, there is this other thing called the Army Reserve.”
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ommand Sgt. Maj. Dwayne Coffer, the former thesergeantcommandmajorof2ndBattalion, 317th Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT), graduated with his Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, in Lynchburg, Virginia during a ceremony May 5, 2022. “Perseverance was the key,” said Coffer. “I first applied for the Doctoral Program at Liberty University in the Winter of 2013 but was denied admission because I didn’t score high enough on the Graduate Record Exam. Liberty had an alternate test, the Miller Analogies Test (MAT). I studied and studied for the MAT and scored high enough for Liberty to admit me in the Spring of 2014. I began taking classes in the Spring of 2015.” Coffer noted that now Liberty does not require an admission test of any kind for the doctoral program. “It was a hard, long process to earn my doctorate degree,” stated Coffer. “While taking classes for my doctorate degree, I lost my civilian job due to my military service,” he said. “When I was working on my dissertation, I was ready to start interviewing the participants of my study in-person and then COVID-19 hit.”
Coffer continued, “This slowed me down a great deal because most of my participants had difficulty getting online for the Zoom and Google Meet interviews. My professor later allowed me to do the interviews over the phone. Then my beloved mother passed away unexpectedly in June 2020, five months before I completed my dissertation. I knew that my mom would want me to finish the degree, so I drove on. I was able to tell my mom three days before she passed away that I had finished interviewing all of my participants.”Cofferearned his degree in 2020 however, due to COVID-19 restrictions, he was only able to attend the graduation ceremony this year.
“I’m so grateful to God, my parents, brother, my friends, and my fellow Soldiers for their love and support over the years,” said the command sergeant major. Coffer is currently an assistant principal at an elementary school in North Carolina. Born and raised in Virginia, he held a Virginia teacher’s license since 1998. Coffer has held a Principal’s License in both Virginia and North Carolina since 2006. And thanks to his newly earned doctorate degree, Coffer was issued his Virginia Superintendent’s License just this past week, which he can now also submit for his North Carolina Superintendent’s License. “Keep pressing forward, no matter what life throws at you!” stated Coffer. “Anything worthwhile in life is an uphill battle.”
Dr. Dwayne Coffer Ed.D, Ed.S, MS, BS C
CSM DWAYNE COFFER GRADUATES WITH DOCTOR OF EDUCATION DEGREE
FROM TO COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR: CSM DWAYNE COFFER’S HISTORY
WITH THE 2-317TH REGIMENT
Dr. Dwayne Coffer Ed.D, Ed.S, MS, BS
By Command Sgt. Maj. Dwayne Coffer, 2nd Battalion, 317th Regiment ommand Sgt. Maj. Dwayne Coffer’s history with the 2nd Batt., 317th Reg., 2nd Brig., 104th Training Division (Leader Training) goes way back farther than when he became the unit’s command sergeant major in April 2019. Drill sergeants from the 2-317th Regiment, headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, trained Coffer back in April and May 1993 when “CSM Coffer” was “Pvt. Coffer.” In 1993 and 1994, Army Reserve drill sergeants from the 2-317th, then a part of the 80th Training Division, conducted their annual training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. The Army Reserve drill sergeants worked with their activeduty counterparts. They rotated on a regular schedule, which meant that a fresh set of drill sergeants from the 2-317th appeared before the basic trainees every two weeks, one of which was Pvt. Coffer. “I was in the Delayed Entry Program prior to going to Basic Training, which meant that I went to my Reserve unit at Fort Pickett, Virginia, which was also under the 80th Division at the time,” said Coffer. “I already had uniforms with the 80th Division patch on them when I went to basic training.” Coffer continued, “When I found out that we had Reserve drill sergeants from Virginia who were also in the 80th Division, I thought that it would be cool for me to wear my uniforms with the 80th Division patch on them.
“This was not for me to get special treatment, but to show pride that I was also from Virginia and also in the 80th Division. This was a big mistake! There seemed to have been every drill sergeant from the 2-317th’s ‘Special Project,’ and I did more push-ups than I thought humanly“Whenpossible.”Ifoundout in 2019 that I had been chosen to be the Command Sergeant Major of the 2-317th Regiment, I thought to myself, what are the chances of this being the same drill sergeant unit that trained me at Basic Training? Once I found out that it was the same unit, I was filled with an enormous amount of pride,” said Coffer.“The quality of drill sergeants and other Soldiers who are currently at the 2-317th Regiment in 2022 is the highest possible, just like in 1993. It’s amazing that almost three decades later, the drill sergeants of the 2-317th are still among the best in the Army.”
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C
PRIVATE
104th TRAINING DIVISION (LT)
Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 399th Regiment, 104th Training Division (IET) led thousands of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps cadets from across the country through the confidence/obstacle course and rappel tower at Fort Knox this summer starting in early June. (U.S. Army Reserve photos by Master Sgt. Ryan C. Matson)
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OINT BASE LEWISMCCHORD, Wash. –Soldiers from around the country traveled to the 104th Training Division headquarters at Joint Base LewisMcChord, Wash., in April for the Equal Opportunity Leaders Course. The course gives unit representatives the opportunity to develop tools to use within their units so that Soldiers can feel safe to seek help.
“Our main goal is to give our Soldiers the tools to create that safe space within their units,” said Tappin. “Overall, I would say that the EOLC was a success, and it was encouraging to see the students embrace the lessons with enthusiasm. I believe they all left with a positive attitude about EO, and a desire to build successful unit level EO programs.”
The situation that Fischer spoke about is where the equal opportunity leaders come in.
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J EQUAL OTHERLEADERSOPPORTUNITYLEANONEACHDURINGEOLC
Military Equal Opportunity focuses on maximizing human potential and ensuring fair treatment for all Soldiers based solely on merit, performance and potential, in support of readiness. The course helps equal opportunity leaders establish that culture and climate in their units.
“We are building and sustaining a ready, effective fighting force needed to win America’s wars. To do this, we need to eliminate practices that threaten the Army’s full use of our most valuable resource, our Soldiers,” said Brig. Gen. Rodney Fischer, the division’s commanding general, in his address to the participants. “Your commanders are ultimately responsible for your unit’s MEO programs. However, they will be relying on you to be the unit’s subject matter expert on MEO issues. You will be their eyes and ears.”
Fischer took the time to facilitate an open discussion after his prepared remarks. That discussion allowed Soldiers attending the course to open up about their own experiences in a safe environment that expanded the dialogue of the course. “The EOLC can be a tough course to go through, as everyone has their own unique experiences and perspectives on the topics we cover,” Tappin said. “Many students have had some difficult and painful experiences that get brought out in discussions, but hearing these stories are powerful when done in a safe environment.” “Encourage your Soldiers to speak up if they see something that doesn’t seem right,” said Fischer, acknowledging not all Soldiers are willing to take that level of action. “It is best to do this directly with the offender, but if they don’t feel comfortable doing this, they should seek help from others.”
By Capt. Christian Venhuizen, Public Affairs Officer, 104th Training Division (Leader Training)
Students from around the Nation, and within the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), participate in the Equal Opportunity Leaders Course at Joint Base Lew is-McChord in April 2022. EOLC helps train Soldiers working in the Military Equal Opportunity program to establish a climate of readiness, cohesion and mission success. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Christian Venhuizen)
“We hope that in the end, the Soldiers who leave this course understand the EO program is more than an avenue to file complaints,” said Master Sgt. Jessie Tappin, EO advisor for the 104th TD, and host of the April event. “We hope they see its importance to unit readiness, cohesion, and mission success.”
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, commanding general of the 104th Training Divi sion (Leader Training), listens to a participant in the Equal Opportunity Leaders Course, hosted by the division at Joint Base Lewis McChord in April 2022. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Christian Venhuizen)
Lt. Col. James R. Maxwell is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retire ment Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
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Army Col. Thomas W. Olsen salutes Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Lt. Col. Robin D. MacBride is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Army Master Sgt. Vaughn M. Wyerl is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fisch er, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lew is-McChord Family Resource Center.
Sgt. 1st Class Chad M. WIlson receives a meritorious service medal from Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
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Soldiers, families and friends celebrate during and after the 104th Training Division (Lead er Training) April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Retiring Soldiers of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training) are recognized during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Retiring Soldiers of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training) and their families are recognized during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Sgt. 1st Class Vincente Mariscal is congratulated by Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, both of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training), during the presentation of awards at the Division Retirement Ceremony April 23, 2022, at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Family Resource Center.
Col. Jenni speaks with Capt. Ashley 104th DIV HHC Commander during the icebreaker exercise Col. Jenni’s 1st weekend as the new Chief of Staff, 104th DIV, Joint Base Lewis-McChord “RIP Mary” Site where Col. Jenni’s bicycle accident happened.
Turning around and before even looking in my direction, the gentlemen answered, “yes, what do you need?” I asked for a ride to the hospital, and he quickly recognized the extreme conditions and the nature of the request. It turns out this gentleman was also a Veteran and that we had been in Iraq during the same time period. He was a little down on his luck and we were able to help each other. This small act of service brought purpose and meaning into his life. The hospital staff said there were likely not any breaks in the areas I was having pain because it takes tremendous pressure to break the upper ribs and scapula. The x-rays would later show two clean breaks of the ribs and my scapula snapped in half into five or six pieces. Seven days later I was back on a stationary bike, three weeks later back on the road, seven weeks later passed the Army Combat Fitness Test, and 11 weeks later I completed the LoToJa in just over 13 hours. During extreme circumstances it is often difficult for anyone to see clearly and recognize the dire straits that we find ourselves in, even when it is crystal clear to others. Looking back, none of the physical activities were in the best interest of recovery, and were bad decisions. Sometimes, we all hit a bump or multiple bumps in the road while the Good Lord, your Higher Power, or whatever you may choose to believe, sends others to help. Please be diligent of those Family Members, Soldiers, and friends who might be struggling to see clearly and going through difficult times. Sometimes we are the poor guy or gal laying on the ground, sometimes we are the ones helping them up, sometimes we are both. In July 2021, I had to heal personally, physically, and professionally. I was in a difficult place; the last year of brigade command had been difficult, and I am certain I was able to conceal this from most of those around me. One of my mentors, a true American hero and colonel likely to become a general officer, had just passed away and was believed to have taken his own life. As I looked for answers personally and professionally, my family and members of the 104th Team helped in many ways I am sure they were never aware of. Thank you!
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O
By Col. Christian “CJ” Jenni, Chief of Staff, 104th Training Division (LT) n July 17 I did not look much different than any other Soldier as I introduced myself to the 104th Training Division staff. Little did they know that a few hours earlier, I did not know if I would be able to pull on my boots. My broken body was hidden from view, concealed under my uniform. On June 28th, I was on a bicycle ride preparing for the 2021 LoToJa, a one-day, 204-mile bicycle race from Logan, Utah, to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, when I hit a bump in the road. I started a short 30-mile ride, and I was only going to be gone an hour and 30 minutes. I had just put new carbon-fiber rims on my bike, the maiden voyage, kind of like the Titanic. I always wear a helmet however, this short ride I briefly considered going without, a splitsecond decision I have no doubt ended up saving my life. I was fast, enjoying the ride, leaving everything behind… at about 25-30 mph my front tire struck the side of a bump with such force my front wheel ricocheted 90 degrees from the direction of travel. My first thought was this is exactly what I witnessed happening to my brother, next, the sound of my helmet hitting the pavement really loud, and last, this really hurts. I first hit on my left side and completely flipped over with the bike, sideways onto my right side now facing the other direction. My left shoulder took most of the impact, and I came to a rest very close to a “RIP Mary” spraypainted on the ground. As I laid there, a bloody mess and laboring to breathe, a young woman came over and asked me if I was OK. I wanted to answer her, however, the only sound coming out of my mouth was, “AHHHH, AHHHH, AHHHH.” After about a minute or so, I was able to speak. I asked if she could see my cell phone and if it was broken. She answered that the phone was ok and still attached to my handlebars. After standing up, I called my wife and asked her to come get me. The young woman said the crash was very spectacular and she helped me clean up the yard sale. Both of my earphones popped out and broke apart, a lens popped out of my sunglasses, and it seems like there was something else on the ground. I recognized my body was starting to shut down, and I was going into shock. She walked me over to the parking lot at Timpanogos Park where I was going to wait for my wife. I thanked her and let her know I would be ok. In retrospect, I should have simply called an ambulance. I saw a gentleman walking into the parking lot and started following him. I thought this would be great if that were his black truck. As soon as I saw him moving toward the driver’s side, I said, “hey Sir, do you mind giving me a hand?”
A BUMP IN THE ROAD
SpecialSpecial TRA VEL MILITARY
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 39 TRAVEL RESOURCESMilitaryAdvertorial
he Association of the U.S. Army has launched a Welcome Back Campaign to celebrate being back together again, usher in new and returning members, and mark the end of a difficult period coping with COVID-19.TheWelcome Back Campaign offers discounts across the board— for new members, renewing members, and those who wish to extend their current membership. Reduced membership costs will continue through Oct. 31, 2022. During the campaign, individual memberships are $30 for two years or $50 for five years. Lifetime members pay four monthly installments of $100. Memberships for junior military and civilian personnel, including soldiers in the grades of E-1 through E-4, are $10 for two Familyyears.memberships also are available for $15 for two years or $30 for five years. “We’ve made it easier for you to join or renew online and are exploring more members-only offerings that continue to add value to your AUSA membership,” said retired Brig. Gen. Jack Haley, AUSA’s vice president for membership and meetings. “As your association that supports and provides a voice for the Army and honors those who have served, we would like to welcome you back with open arms.” For more information, visit www. ausa.org/welcomeback.
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t’s never too late for a romantic beach getaway to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Fall brings fantastic events, beautiful sunsets, and comfortable coastal breezes to the Gulf Coast. So escape to Alabama’s beaches for a couple’s trip like no other. With 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax and reconnect with your sweetheart. Our pristine beaches are ideal for digging your toes in the sand and sipping on a refreshing coastal cocktail as you soak up the sun. If you prefer to play, try a beach volleyball game or search for seashells. Our beaches aren’t the only reason to visit, as our area offers incredible cuisine, including freshfrom-the-Gulf seafood, mouthwatering burgers, and delicious barbecue. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or local craft beer and savor the irresistible taste of the Gulf Coast. You’ll love dining while listening to the sounds of local musicians or taking in the natural beauty surrounding you. Are you looking for a romantic meal? First, make reservations at one of the area’s fine dining restaurants for an unforgettable date night at the beach. Then, elevate your meal and make it extra special when you dine at sunset with a view of the setting sun. Eating isn’t the only thing you’ll do while here. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer plenty of fun and one-of-a-kind activities. Ride bikes through the 28 miles of trails in Gulf State Park or explore the calm waters of back bays on a kayak. If you’re searching for a unique experience, try soaring above the shore on a parasail or searching for dolphins on a sunset dolphin cruise. Whether you prefer activities with a bit of excitement or endeavors that provide for relaxation, you’re sure to find a special way to make new memories. Our area is brimming with arts and culture and offers guests plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in its uniqueness. Visit the Coastal Arts Center and browse
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 41 the fabulous art on-site or get your artistic juices flowing at the Hot Shop and Clay Studio and create your own piece to take home. Next, travel back in time to Historic Fort Morgan and discover the location of a pivotal part of history. Stroll the grounds and explore the tunnels and barracks of this remarkable site. Finally, head to The Wharf for a day filled with food, shops, and fun. This entertainment district has fabulous restaurants, local stores, and the southeast’s second tall Ferris wheel. Get cozy and take a ride for a magnificent view of the area. The fall season on Alabama’s beaches brings lots of fabulous events. From food festivals to live music, there’s lots of fun to be enjoyed. On October 6-9, the 49th Annual Shrimp Festival returns to Gulf Shores and promises a fabulous weekend of delectable seafood, live music, and artists. Are you still craving more? The Hangout hosts The Annual Oyster Cookoff Craft Spirits and Beer Weekend on November 4-5. You’ll enjoy sampling dozens of craft beers, fresh oysters, and barbecue here. Finally, unwind and listen to the sounds of the nation’s best singer-songwriters at The Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival from November 3-13. For two weeks, you can enjoy intimate performances at venues across Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and learn the history behind some of the most well-known songs in the country, bluegrass and rock. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. From exquisite cuisine, incredible events and activities, and unbeatable beaches, you’ll fall in love all over again.
GETAWAY TO THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
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See Yourself in Sevierville, TN W
FALL HIDEAWAYS & BACK ROAD DRIVES
SPRING & SUMMER GETAWAYS Sevierville offers plenty of splashy fun in the sun, where you’re headed out on Spring Break or taking a relaxing summer vacation. Weather-proof your visit with a stay at Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort or The Resort at Governor’s Crossing. Both offer indoor and outdoor waterpark experiences for the whole family with love. Then explore one of Sevierville’s newest attractions, Soaky Mountain Waterpark – a 50acre waterpark with thrill slides, a not-so-lazy river, and plenty of slides and play areas for younger kids. Dry off and venture out with the family to Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo. Their indoor and outdoor exhibits bring you up close with unique animals in an educational setting. Then fly by the Tennessee Museum of Aviation to see rare, airworthy warbird aircraft, including two Republic P-47D Thunderbolts, a Douglas A-1H Skyraider, and more. Those who really want a unique aviation experience can even book a flight in Sky High Air Tour’s 1927 Waco biplane – a truly awesome way to see the area. Fun, family-friendly attractions, including Sevier Air Trampoline & Ninja Warrior Park, NASCAR SpeedPark, Adventure Park at Five Oaks, and Dollywood, round out the excitement in Sevierville. To begin planning your next visit to Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains, visit our website at www. VisitSevierville.com.
Advertorial ide open spaces and Mountainsmakenatureget-back-to-activitiestheSmokya great destination year-round. In Sevierville, each season is packed with something unique to see and do, from fall driving tours to holiday lights and even spring and summer fun in the sun.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS & SHOPPING Smoky Mountain Winterfest glows brightly in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, from November 11 through February 20. See millions of lights along the Parkway and enjoy special attractions like Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland from November 11 through January 1 –a massive 1.5-mile drive-through light extravaganza. After enjoying the holiday sparkle, head to Sevierville’s famous stores for gifts, everyone on your list will love. Shop high-end name brands at Tanger Outlets Sevierville and discover one-of-a-kind treasures at stores like Smoky Mountain Knife Works and Robert A. Tino Gallery. Then head to historic downtown Sevierville to visit unique boutiques, galleries, and chef-driven restaurants. After a busy day filled with holiday fun, cozy up by the fire at a luxurious mountain cabin. Sevierville has hundreds of wellappointed rental cabins offering amenities like full kitchens, hot tubs, and game rooms. Choose a quiet cabin for two or bring the whole family – some cabins sleep up to 40 people!
Autumn crowns the Smoky Mountains with spectacular color for a few glorious weeks. It’s a sight worth traveling to see –especially when you take a few less traveled roads. Sevierville has created six different self-guided driving tours that will help you cruise the back roads for great views, historic sites, and a wonderful fall visit. Discover all the fall drives at VisitSevierville.com/fallwww.Don’tjustplanaday trip. There’s so much to do in the Smokies that you’ll want to stay and explore something new. Enjoy crisp fall weather during a leisurely midweek mountain vacation in a glamping tent. Or bring your RV and enjoy quality time in the great outdoors. Sevierville has several upscale RV resorts and campgrounds offering everything from river fishing and kayaking to dog parks and special events exclusively for guests. Then make plans to see new attractions, like SkyLand Ranch – a mountain top farm featuring canopy walks, a mountain coaster, miniature animals, and more.
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 43 t the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, find a destination unlike any other. Locals and travelers alike have enjoyed it for over 100 years. Nestled in Hickory Nut Gorge, the trails and views of Chimney Rock will elevate your vacation, no matter the season. Are you looking for ways to beat the end-of-summer blues? Chimney Rock is just a short drive from Asheville or a day trip from Charlotte and is surrounded by small mountain communities with no shortage of exciting summer activities. So, pack your water bottles and hit one of our six trails – each designed to add something unique to your experience. The 500-stair Outcroppings Trail will take you right to the top of Chimney Rock through a series of staircases and overlooks. Then, continue up to Exclamation Point to find yourself truly breathless, or follow the Skyline Trail through a ridgetop forest to the headwaters of Hickory Nut Falls. Young explorers and kids at heart will love the Great Woodland Adventure, a short, wooded stroll that introduces you to our native wildlife through interactive exhibits. Or make the moderate trek to the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls and cool off with the spray on your face. Come in August and catch one of our Animal Encounter programs if you’re still hoping for some fun before school starts. Every weekday through the end of summer, meet some of our naturalists and live animal ambassadors as they help interpret the park’s native species. Come face-to-face with a groundhog or opossum and learn to identify a rat snake from a king snake. Then, take our 26-story elevator through the mountain and grab an ice cream cone from the SkyTheLounge.Fallseason kicks off on September 17th and 18th with our premiere annual birding event: Flock to the Rock. Learn more about the nation’s fastestgrowing hobby and meet striking birds of prey, including our raptor ambassadors. Participate in the annual migratory bird count and see eye-to-eye with a red-tailed hawk or a barred owl. Leaf season in the mountains draws travelers worldwide as the trees perform their annual transformation. The cooler temperatures of October are a boon to leaf-seekers and hikers alike.
The Four Seasons trail shows off where it gets its name to those bold enough to take the road less traveled, and views of Hickory Nut Gorge from Exclamation Point and the Skyline trail feature miles of fall color. Of course, four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun, too. Though the stairs pose a challenge for some canines, the Hickory Nut Falls trail is a favorite for dog owners.
The quaint shops of Chimney Rock Village harken back to a simpler time. Browse local crafts, grab some locally made fudge, or stroll the Rocky Broad Riverwalk. But, of course, no small town is complete without a classic roadside diner. The Old Rock Cafe sits right from the Chimney Rock entrance and is the perfect place to grab a post-hike burger and relax on the deck overlooking the river. Friendly service, weekly specials, and local favorites like warm Apple Brown Betty are a can’t miss. We know that no one understands the need for an escape from the business of everyday life more than military families. Therefore, all active and retired members of the armed forces receive a discount on admission to Chimney Rock State Park when you buy tickets at the gate. We know it will be a vacation to remember whenever you visit the park.
BEAT THOSE END-OF-SUMMER BLUES AT CHIMENY ROCK A
Another primary mission of the Griffon Association is to support Golf Tournament In 2019, $12,157.03 was raised to support the 108th sponsors,donations,throughcanfortournamentgroups.otherCommandTrainingandvariousSoldier/VeteranThe2021golfisscheduled27September.YousupportthiseffortTee/Holesponsors,andeventorbetteryet,
signing up to play golf. The occasion is always a day of relaxation, fun and especially fellowship. You won’t be disappointed.Eachyearthe Association several of our previous sponsors, we collected $3,300.00 to help us through this difficult time. The year 2019 was an eventful and gratifying one for the 108th Griffon Association. Much was accomplished. Most satisfying was financial assistance to a Soldier of a 108th Training Command unit, who was injured in a training accident, with a subsequent delay in the INCAP pay determination, which resulted in a family financial crisis. The Association provided him and his family with several thousand dollars in grants to sustain them until the particularly the annual golf tournament held each September at the Pine Island Country Club near Charlotte, North Carolina. Golf Tournament In 2019, $12,157.03 was raised to support the 108th
despite many obstacles. Through the generosity of
sponsors,donations,throughcanfortournamentgroups.otherCommandTrainingandvariousSoldier/VeteranThe2021golfisscheduled27September.YousupportthiseffortTee/Holesponsors,andeventorbetteryet,By Tom Phlegar, Retired Colonel (06)
and
44 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM TRAVEL RESOURCESMilitaryAdvertorial
ou recently have not received an update from The 108th Griffon Association in The Griffon newspaper other than a notice of our upcoming golf tournament. Still, we are alive and well with our support of the 108th Training Command (TC) and all its subordinate units. Last year’s golf tournament was very successful, enabling us to support the activities of the 108th TC more aggressively and other veteran-related organizations. We proudly announce that six scholarships are being given this year for post-secondary education of $1,000.00 each. A scholarship award is available to any present Soldier in the 108th TC and subordinate units and any past Soldier of the Command who has served honorably. These scholarships are also available to children and grandchildren of those Soldiers. You do not have to be a member of The Griffon Association to apply for a scholarship. We sincerely hope more eligible applicants throughout the entire Command will apply for the 2023 awards. The Griffon will publish instructions and deadlines for an application for 2023 in the Winter 2023 Issue. Applications will be available via the 108th Griffon websites, www.108thgriffonassoc. com or www.thegriffon108.com, under the tab Golf Tournament.
108TH GRIFFON ASSOCIATION IS ALIVE AND WELL Yassistance$3,300.00obstacles.Soldiers,includingcancellationCovidwhichisraiser.Still,theirisreallyoathyearsabletodosupportofsponsors,tohelptime.aneventfulthe108thMuchwassatisfyingtoTrainingwasaccident,delayindetermination,familyAssociationfamilydollarsinuntilthe been Carolina.Clubtheheldannualandmembership,missionstorequirements.processinformationsupportCommandthedelayedunnecessarilytocontact108thTrainingfamilyofficeforontheapplicationandqualificationThemoniessupporttheAssociation’scomefromdonations,particularlythegolftournamenteachSeptemberatPineIslandCountrynearCharlotte,North
We have many Soldiers and their families that need help for a couple months so they don’t lose their homes or to just buy groceries and pay utilities. With your continuing support, we can do much more. Thanks again and God Bless You.
We have many Soldiers and their families that need help for a couple months so they don’t lose their homes or to just buy groceries and pay utilities. With your continuing support, we can do much more. Thanks again and God Bless You.
President, 108th Griffon Association
SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 45 Headquarters but is available for consideration from all subordinate DivisionAnotherHeadquarters.missionofthe Association is to assist injured soldiers while performing military duties and military channels process the Line of Duty (LODs) for assistance. There has not been any request in this area for at least a couple of years, but be aware it is still there when needed. Unit command and administrative personnel need to request this assistance through TC Family Support channels for this process to begin. Our next annual golf tournament was announced in the Spring 2022 issue of The Griffon and is on schedule for September 26, 2022. Your support is greatly appreciated by either participating as a player, contributing by sponsoring a hole, volunteering to work during the tournament, or other forms of support. Support forms may be obtained from our website, www.108thgriffonsassoc.com, or directly from our President, MG(Ret) McCartney, at skip@shelby.net. Finally, we could have accomplished the above without a strong and viable membership. That is the lifeblood of this and all other organizations. Therefore, your taxdeductible, one-year membership of $10.00 or lifetime membership of $108.00 is much needed and appreciated. Enclosed with this article is a membership form, or you may also obtain one from our websites at www.108thgriffonassoc. com or www.thegriffon108.com under the tab Golf Tournament.
And from the 108th Griffon Association’s motto, we close with “Be a Patriot, Help a Soldier”
Photo by Mrs. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs several veteran type that Soldiers/Veteransprovide from military, including its units. The 2019 went to organizationCommandCarolina,QuartersVeteransinAsheville,afacilityfordisabledveterans,Homes,USOofFreedomandHopeandothers.Otherthroughoutthearealsosupportfunctionofistoprovidefunds to the 108th Command and its subordinate units must be financed through nonfunds. It has been several years been utilized. Funds are available, only if we know about the activity and McCartney, Jr. Retired108thGriffon Association
unnecessarilyCommandprimary108thhascontacttheapplicationqualificationmoniesAssociation’sfromdonations,thetournamentSeptemberatCountryCharlotte,North Tournament $12,157.03support signing up to play golf. The occasion is always a day of relaxation, fun and especially fellowship. You won’t be disappointed.Eachyearthe Association to the 108th subordinate Associationthroughunitsnon-severalyearsareavailable,activityand
Photo by Mrs. Deborah Williams, 108th Training Command (IET), Public Affairs
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46 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM IT’S YOUR UNIVERSE. COME PLAY IN IT.
When you’re ready to enjoy a water theme park like no other, Universal’s Volcano Bay combines unmatched thrills with tropical relaxation. It’s a day-long adventure that will leave you breathless, elated and ready for a good night’s sleep.
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*The 2-Park Military “2022 Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida, AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks on the same day. Ticket is valid for use November 11, 2021 through and including December 31, 2022, with no blockout dates. Excludes separately ticketed events. This ticket also includes admission to select live entertainment venues of Universal CityWalk. Guest must present a valid Military ID at time of purchase, at time of the exchange at either Universal Studios Florida, or Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park ticket sales window, and upon redemption at both Universal Studios Florida, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks. Unused days shall be forfeited. Additional restrictions may apply. The 3-Park Military “2022 Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, AND Universal’s Volcano Bay theme parks on the same day. Ticket is valid for use November 11, 2021 through and including December 31, 2022. Universal’s Volcano Bay closed on select dates. Visit UniversalOrlando.com for details. Excludes separately ticketed events. Guest must present a valid U.S. Military ID at time of purchase, at time of the exchange at either Universal Studios Florida, or Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park ticket sales window, and upon redemption at both Universal Studios Florida, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks. Unused days shall be forfeited. Additional restrictions may apply. †Additional restrictions apply. ^Requires theme park admission. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure as determined by Universal Orlando. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening for Universal’s Volcano Bay. Valid at select attractions at each park. Attractions are subject to substitutions without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. ◊Separately ticketed event. Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event. Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions, entertainment, and/or experience details are subject to availability, changes and/or cancellation without notice. Parks/attractions/entertainment may close or be unavailable due to capacity and benefits are subject to change without notice. Free self-parking after 6PM and Universal Cinemark Matinee Free Parking Program are not valid for Halloween Horror Nights event nights. Other restrictions may apply. and its logo and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2022 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. 2022 MARVEL. Jurassic Park and Jurassic World TM & © 2022 Universal Studios LLC and Amblin Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved. IN BLACK and ALIEN ATTACK & 2022 Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Minions TM & Universal Studios. Cabana Bay Beach Resort TM & 2022 UCF
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SUMMER 2022 | THE GRIFFON | 47 WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s22)
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Hotel Venture II. All rights reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2022 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 22619501/NS Spider-Man and Incredible Hulk. Universal Studios is home to awesome attractions based on the TRANSFORMERSM robots, Illumination’s Minions, Men In Black™ and many more. And if you come to Universal Studios in the fall, summon all the members of your scream squad and make plans to attend The World’s Premier Halloween Eventm, Halloween Horror Nights, which runs select nights September 2, through October 31, 2022◊. (Separately ticketed event.) mNamed Best Halloween Event by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for 12 years (2006, 2008-2018). HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR COSTUME MASKS ALLOWED.
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48 | THE GRIFFON | SUMMER 2022 WWW.THEGRIFFON108.COM ACADIAN COMPANIES 14 ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY 39 BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS 23 BAY PATH UNIVESITY 2 BILOXI RESORTBEACHRENTALS 41 VACATIONBRETT/ROBINSONRENTALS 41 UNIVERSITYCAMPBELLSVILLE 17 CAPITOL UNIVERSITYTECHNOLOGY 10 CFI 10 CHICAGO DEPARTMENTPOLICE 15 CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK 43 UNIVERSITY–CHICAGOCONCORDIA 19 UNIVERSITY–IRVINECONCORDIA 35 UNIVERSITY–WISCONSINCONCORDIA 25 CONWAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 44 DRURY UNIVERSITY 15 D’YOUVILLE UNIVERSITY 35 EAST STATETENNESSEEUNIVERSITY 31 FOREST TRAIL ACADEMY 4 GREAT MARITIMELAKESACADEMY 16 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS HERITAGE CENTER 43 GREATER VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 45 GULF SHORES & ORANGE BEACH TOURISM 40 HEART OF NORTH CAROLINA VISITORS BUREAU 44 JACKSONVILLESHERIFF’SOFFICE 11 KAY JEWELERS BC TRANSPORTATIONKNIGHT 48 MORAVIAN UNIVERSITY 31 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE US ARMY 45 NBC ORLANDOUNIVERSALRESORT 47 NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY 17 STATENORTHEASTERNUNIVERSITY 31 POLICEPORTLANDBUREAU 18 POST UNIVERSITY 3 QUALITY DRIVE-AWAY 8 ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL IBC RUST COLLEGE 11 SEVIERVILLEVISITORSCENTER 42 SWIFT TRANSPORTATION 30 THE CORPORATIONOCEAN 35 EXPEDITEDTRI-STATE SERVICE 24 UNITED TRICARECONCORDIA–DENTAL 9 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA 28 VETERANS HISTORY MUSEUM OF WNC 12 VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS 6 WESTERN UNIVERSITYGOVERNORS 5 WESTMINSTER COLLEGE 16 IFC= Inside Front Cover; IBC= Inside Back Cover; BC=Back CoverINDEXAdvertiser
