Fort Lee Traveller 03.02.17 by Military News

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a closer look

Spouses Day event teaches participants about school operations

SEE PAGE 3 TOP ENLISTED SOLDIER AIMS TO EXPAND RECRUITING Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel A. Dailey says the Army needs to recruit from a broader base and explore non-traditional means to attract future Soldiers SEE PAGE 4

MISSION READY 23rd Quartermaster Brigade physical training run, formal event promote resiliency among Soldiers SEE PAGE 10

STREAMERS OF ACHIEVEMENT Two wheel vehicle mechanic classes earn recognition for technical, tactical skills SEE PAGE 11

HARDSHIPS OF A 36-YEAR CAREER A retiring rigger saw his share of difďŹ culties, but his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft prepared him for any obstacle SEE PAGE 12

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COMMENTARY | A SPOUSE’S JOURNEY

Lee spouse begins Appalachian trip

Fort Lee

Commanding General ........Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams Garrison Commander ..................... Col. Adam W. Butler Public Affairs Officer............................. Stephen J. Baker Command Information/Managing Editor...Patrick Buffett Senior Writer/Special Assignments ......... T. Anthony Bell Production/News Assistant Editor.................. Amy Perry Family/Community Life Reporter ...........Lesley Atkinson Production Assistant .............................. Ray Kozakewicz To reach the Traveller Staff, call (804) 734-7147.

Contributed

Julie Coffman takes a selﬁe with her dog somewhere high in the hills of Georgia in February. She plans to traverse the Appalachian Trail to spread the word about the USO.

Linda’s daughter, cupcake lady and many more things – don’t get me wrong I love all of them – but who am I really inside? I have gone to college, but couldn’t decide what I wanted to study. I have switched professions, but never decided what I want to be. In my quest, I am hoping to do a lot of soul-searching and find the answers to these questions. I do have other personal reasons as well. This is going to be the adventure of a lifetime. When thinking about all the reasons why I want to do this hike, I thought of

The Fort Lee “Traveller” is printed by offset process every Thursday as a civilian enterprise in the interest of personnel at the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee, Va. 23801, by Military Newspapers of Virginia, P.O. Box 863, Colonial Heights, Va. 23834, in accordance with Department of the Army Regulations 210-20 and 360-1. This publication receives armed forces material and civilian newspapers are authorized to reprint such material without specific clearance except material specifically designated as copyrighted. Liaison between the printer and the commanding general, Fort Lee, is maintained by the Public Affairs Office, Fort Lee. Circulation: 13,000. This Civilian Enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication. Contents of the “Traveller” are not necessarily the official view of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee. Advertising in this publication including inserts or supplements does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army or Military Newspapers of Virginia. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non merit factor. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from that source until violation is corrected. The “Traveller” is an unofficial publication authorized by AR 360-1, and printed by the Military Newspapers of Virginia, a private firm in no way connected with the U. S. Army Combined Arms Support Command or Fort Lee. The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of Headquarters, U. S. Army Garrison, Fort Lee.

COVER

Julie Coffman, a Fort Lee spouse, started a journey along the Appalachian Trail Feb. 18 at the top of Springer Mountain in Georgia. She expects it’ll take until at least late July to travel the roughly 2,200 miles. The below commentary lists her reasons to take her own temporary duty assignment. It was written before she left. She is married to Staff Sgt. Doyle Coffman, an Ordnance Soldier, and they have three kids: Tryston Coffman, 17; Landon Coffman, 15; and Cheyanne Coffman, 11. Doyle was in the Marine Corps from 1998-2003. After that, he enlisted in the Army and we moved to Giebelstad, Germany; then to Wurzburg, Germany. In 2007, we moved to Fort Drum, N.Y. We were there for 6 years, but he was usually gone for deployments, temporary duty, and training future Soldiers at West Point. In 2013, we moved to Fort Lee, where he is a masters instructor assigned to Echo Company, 832nd Ordnance Battalion. In July 2017, he will be leaving for a yearlong tour in Korea. I am the volunteer coordinator at the Fort Lee USO. I help my director Kasinda Thomas make sure we have enough volunteers to run the center. I am in charge of training our volunteers how to help the service men and women who come into our USO feel like they are at home. I also am

the handler of Sprinkles, a therapy dog that is trained to help lift the spirits of our men and women in uniform, as well as their families. I would like people to know how and what we do for our troops, and how they can help USO: by giving their time and donating to USO centers that give our troops a place to relax, and keep them and their families connected. Working alongside military active duty, retirees and family members every day, I see the need that is there for people to help out our military community. Most people think the USO just provides shows and concerts. I would like to help change this by bringing awareness of what it is we actually do at our USO centers in Hampton Roads and Central Virginia. On my hike, I am hoping to tell people about USOHRCV. I will have the opportunity to meet lots of new people and tell them about my fundraiser. About a year-and-a-half ago, I decided it was my turn to go TDY. I have always had a love of the outdoors, and knew I wanted to do something big before I turn 40. A few nights later, I sat my family down and explained what I wanted to do. I think at first they thought I was nuts. I got a few head nods, and a “Really? Why??” Before I turn the big 4-0, I feel the need to find clarity and peace within myself. I need to rediscover who I am. This, they understood. I have been the Army spouse, mom,

THE

Contributing Writer

Julie Coffman

all the people I would be meeting, and all the opportunities I would have to pass on knowledge about an organization I love. I will be carrying everything I need on my back. My food, my tent, sleeping bag, water – everything. Earlier this month I sent myself four packages to different places I will stop at to resupply (restock on food and supplies). How long it takes me to get to each location depends on how fast I hike. I will not be getting into a real town until Hot Springs, N.C. Once there, I am hoping to have my first zero, hiker lingo for no miles walked. This is at mile marker 273. I will be stopping at hiker hostels along the way to upload videos, and trying to get into town when I can get videos posted as well. I am coming off the trail in early June to see my daughter Cheyanne at her dance recital. I made a promise and I intend on keeping it. I am hoping to end my journey in late July, but I have until Aug. 15 if needed. I know I will miss my family and friends. My family is very important to me. My husband has deployed many times, so I know what it is like to be apart from him, but as for the rest of my family, I have not been away from them for more than a week. I know I am going to go through emotional ups and downs as I go up and down the mountains. I have had some great one-on-one time with them in which they’ve all told me how proud they are of my trek. But what they don’t know is how proud I am of them. My family is strong. They are my heart and my backbone. Without them, I could not do this. My friends also are very important to me. They are not just my friends, but my military family.

T. Anthony Bell

Sgt. 1st Class Patrick Maguire explains the workings of a welding simulator as Jack Peters, his division chief, demonstrates using a torch during the 832nd Ordnance Battalion Spouse’s Day Feb. 24. See story and photos on Page 3.

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(LEFT) Dorinda Talbot, wife of Staff Sgt. Douglas Talbot, adjusts the eyepiece on a helmet during the 832nd Ordnance Battalion Spouses Day event Friday at Cohen Hall on the Ordnance Campus. Talbot was one of several women who were familiarized with Ordnance School operations during the occasion. (BELOW, LEFT) Chief Warrant Ofﬁcer 3 Clarence Anderson explains a machining tool to the attendees.

63286(6 '$< Ord. Battalion familiarizes signiﬁcant others about mission T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

Army spouse Abigail Moralesjude wore an uncomfortable smile but was eager to give it a shot. Safety helmet donned, she took hold of the torch, and with some assistance, began to try her hand at using a state-of-the-art welding simulator. “It was very nice,” she said of her experience at Cohen Hall on the Ordnance Campus. “I was feeling the vibration of the machine and seeing the sparks (simulated inside the helmet) even though there were none.” Moralesjude was one of four

Soldier and see what they do on a daily basis,” said Capt. Edward J. Hurley, commander, Alpha Company, 832nd Ord. Bn. Spouse’s Day began with an in-brief. It was followed by physical training and breakfast at the battalion headquarters. A tour of Cohen Photos by T. Anthony Bell Hall’s Metalworking spouses who were familiarized Services Division capped off the with a slice of Army duty during event. There, they received briefs the 832nd Ordnance Battalion on machining and 3-D printing in Spouse’s Day Friday. It was addition to welding. Moralesjude, the wife the second iteration of an event organized to “provide an op- of Chaplain (Capt.) Edgar portunity for military spouses Moralesjude, the battalion chapto come to work with his/her lain, said the event increased her

Jack Peters, chief, Metalworking Services Division, Ordnance School, explains his division’s mission to 832nd Ord. Battalion spouses.

understanding of the battalion mission. “It gave us a really good idea of what our loved ones go through every single day,” she said. Hurley, who was on hand for each of the events, said spouse’s day complements the mission because it educates significant others. “Military units, regardless of

branch, work tirelessly to build solid teams down to the lowest level in order to fight and win our nation’s wars,” he said. “It is critical to include family members in that equation. In the end, it helps to support military readiness.” Spouse’s Day is scheduled quarterly and showcases different aspects of the battalion mission, said Hurley.

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'DLOH\ FDOOV IRU UHFUXLWLQJ IURP ÂśHQWLUH QDWLRQ Âˇ LPSURYHG WUDLQLQJ RSSRUWXQLWLHV C. Todd Lopez Army News Service

WASHINGTON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Army has long said that only one-in-four Americans are fit to enlist. But that pool of American youth from which recruiters draw is improving, according to Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very proud of the young generation,â&#x20AC;? Dailey said of those young Americans who are now of age to join the Army. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen an uptick in capability, physical capability ... resiliency. I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the rise with Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth now.â&#x20AC;? Dailey spoke during a morning breakfast discussion hosted by the Association of the U.S. Army Feb. 14. During the breakfast, Dailey, the 15th sergeant major of the Army, discussed current Army topics with retired SMA Kenneth O. Preston. Dailey told Preston heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d recently visited with Soldiers in advanced individual training, about 200 in all, who were about to embark on their daily physical training regimen. He ran with them after hearing a cautionary note from their training cadre warning him to take it easy on the Soldiers because they were so new. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soldiers bend, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t break,â&#x20AC;? Dailey recalled telling the cadre. Dailey led the run, he said, at a sevenminute mile pace. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We extended the run a bit longer,â&#x20AC;? he told Preston. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the benefits you have as SMA: You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to listen to cadre. But every single Soldier in that formation stayed in that formation. They were highly motivated. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll bet there wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a single person in that formation with more than 12 percent body fat.â&#x20AC;? Family business of soldiering Dailey also touched on some issues he sees in recruiting young Americans. He said a high percentage of those who join the Army today were likely inspired to join because somebody in their family had served. That makes the Soldier profession highly insular â&#x20AC;&#x201C; joining the Army tends to be a family business, Dailey said. And that has to change. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need more of the broader population for the Army,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We think the best representation of the United States of America is to recruit from the entire nation. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lost some of that ability to do that based on a lot

C. Todd Lopez

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey, left, discussed Army topics with now-retired Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth O. Preston Feb. 14 at a morning breakfast discussion hosted by the Association of the U.S. Army in Arlington. The two discussed, among other things, recruiting, the Army budget and the Army presence in Europe.

of things: competing efforts, (the) amount of education provided in those areas. But I think we have to continue to invest.â&#x20AC;? The Army continues today to recruit from the same areas of the country, Dailey said. He wants that to change. He wants to increase recruiting efforts in parts of the country that havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t traditionally provided a lot of Soldiers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the northeast and the northwest, for instance. Still, last year, Dailey said the Army pulled 14,000 female Soldiers into the Army. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This last year we did an excellent job of recruiting females,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was one of our best years in a decade.â&#x20AC;? Committed to education The top two reasons for joining the Army, according to Dailey, remain patriotism and educational benefits. He firmly believes that continuing to allow the benefits that entice civilians into enlistment to erode will place the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-volunteer force at risk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think we have (made) some tough choices in the past because of the fiscal

constraints weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sustain any more of those in the future. We have to continue to invest in the Soldiers because that is an investment in the future.â&#x20AC;? One such benefit cited by Dailey derives from the National Defense Authorization Act, which this year gave the Army the authority to credential Solders who have jobs that translate to skills in the private sector. That allows Soldiers to walk out of the Army with paperwork that will allow them to perform the same job as a civilian they gained experience on while serving in uniform. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something Dailey said he has been developing since he served as the sergeant major for Army Training and Doctrine Command. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since 2008, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve dropped unemployment compensation from over $500 million a year, and it landed around $172 million this year from those efforts,â&#x20AC;? he said. Dailey said that achievement is firmly in line with the commitment the Army makes to the parents of youth who opt to join. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we send them home, they are

going to be better than we received them,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our commitment to the American Soldier.â&#x20AC;? Distraction to readiness Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Mark A. Milleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No. 1 priority is readiness, a point he has emphasized repeatedly since being sworn in to the position in August 2015. But there are distractions to that readiness, Dailey pointed out. As he has heard from both officers and enlisted members, not every Soldier is always available to train when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to train. Oftentimes, that comes as a result of having to sustain base operations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to put Solders in jobs that were contracted during the war,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s things like gate guards, emergency services, and to help fill gaps in our morale, welfare, and recreation facilities.â&#x20AC;? When Soldiers are pulling duty outside their own units, they arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t available to go train with their units. And that hampers unit readiness. Dailey said that, for NCOs and officers alike, it was their No. 1 complaint. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sergeant major, we can get after the task, we just need all of our Soldiers back to do it,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Dailey recalled them saying. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to reduce our non-deployables; we need to get our Soldiers off these other tasks and get them back to their war-fighting tasks.â&#x20AC;? According to Dailey, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a problem that Installation Management Command is currently committed to resolving. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to reinvest in some of those things so we can get Soldiers back to doing their traditional jobs,â&#x20AC;? he said. But Milleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s readiness mandate applies not just to regular Army forces, Dailey said. It applies to the total force, Army National Guard and Army Reserve included. And Dailey said the Guard and Reserve are being used now more than they ever have been in the past. And for them, he said, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even tougher to maintain readiness, due to their limited training opportunities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to be cognizant of that, because they are citizen Soldiers, and they are employees out in our great hometowns of America,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Less than half of the U.S. Army now is active forces ... We constantly rely on (Reserve forces) to fill out the gaps and seams we have across 140 countries ... and the constant demand for brigades.â&#x20AC;? This year, Dailey said, the Army is doubling the capacity at combat training centers to ensure more training opportunities and improved readiness for Reserve component forces.

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Military Saves Week begins with pledge

(ABOVE) Command Sgt. Maj. Vittorio F. DeSouza, garrison CSM, signs a campaign proclamation on behalf of Col. Adam Butler, garrison commander, Monday at the kickoff for the annual Military Saves Week campaign at the Main Exchange center court. The theme is “Making Savings Automatic.” 2017 Military Saves Week is an opportunity for the Army Community Service Financial Readiness Program team to stress the importance of ﬁnancial responsibility. (LEFT) DeSouza, poses with Soldiers who watched the signing of the Military Saves Week campaign proclamation and ceremonial cake cutting. For more details about MSW activities, call the ACS Financial Readiness Program at (804) 734-6388. Photos by Lesley Atkinson

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also does not advertise in civilian publications. Shoppers can file a complaint through the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

TARP Brieﬁngs | March 15 The first Threat Awareness and Reporting Program briefings for 2017 are set for March 15, 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., at the Lee Theater. The training is a mandatory annual requirement for military members, DOD employees and contractors with a security clearance. Additional quarterly briefings are scheduled for May 24, Aug. 16 and Nov. 7. For details, call (804) 734-1569.

Exchange Automobile Scam Warning Community members need to be aware of fraudulent vehicle advertisements under the “Exchange Inc.” name appearing in some automobile magazines and commercial newspapers. The Army and Air Force Exchange emphasizes it does not sell vehicles in the U.S. or represent private sellers. AAFES

Temporary Closure of Memorial Chapel Sanctuary Beginning March 7, Memorial Chapel Sanctuary will be closed for approximately three weeks while a new sprinkler system is installed. Roman Catholic Mass will be held 4 p.m. Saturdays at Liberty Chapel, corner of Mahone and C avenues, and Protestant worship is set for 11 a.m. Sundays at the Family Life Center at Memorial Chapel, Sisisky Boulevard and Battle Drive. For details, call (804) 734-0970 or 734-1552.

23rd Brigade Hosts Women’s Leadership Symposium | March 22 The 23rd Quartermaster Brigade will host a Women’s Leadership Symposium March 22, 8:30 a.m. - noon, at the U.S. Army Women’s Museum.

The keynote speaker will be Command Sgt. Maj. Vickie G. Culp, Transportation Corps regimental CSM. The special guest will be Virginia Delegate Lashrecse D. Aird from Petersburg. Community members should register by March 15. For details, email jeanshay.d.wright. mil@mail.mil or call (804) 892-9299.

Patient Safety Awareness Week at Kenner | March 12-18 Fort Lee community members are invited to participate in Patient Safety Awareness Week March 14-18, 10 a.m. noon, in the Kenner Army Health Clinic pharmacy lobby. The weeklong awareness and educational campaign for staff and patients will focus on the importance of the relationship between providers and patients and their families. For details, call (804) 734-9086.

Society of Engineers Offering Camp Sponsorship The Central Virginia Post of the

Society of American Military Engineers offers a sponsorship for high school students to attend the one-week SAME Engineering and Construction Marine Corps Camp in Jacksonville, N.C., or Air Force Academy Camp at Colorado Springs, Col., this summer. Applications must be received by April 1 and should be sent to jstuart@ clarknexsen.com. For details, visit http://www.same. org/STEMCAMPS.

CWF Award Program Submissions | March 14 The Fort Lee Civilian Welfare Fund will present Outstanding Civilian Service Awards in the spring. The deadline to nominate an individual is March 14. The award recognizes civilians who display an exemplary work ethic and take the time to get involved in the community with volunteer service or other philanthropic efforts. For a nomination form and details, email caroline.williams@deca.mil or call (804) 687-8000 ext. 48061.

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AMERICA’S MILITARY | SPOTLIGHT

3976 6(21*(81 <((81 &+2 (Editor’s Note: The sisters prefer to be called by their “American” names. Seongeun goes by Sarah and Yeeun goes by Tina.) Ages: 21 (Sarah) and 18 (Tina) Hometown: Suwanee, Ga. The sisters moved there from South Korea in 2009. MOS: 92Y – unit supply specialist Unit: Whiskey Company, 244th Quartermaster Battalion. Currently in holdover status. Why do you use American names? Sarah: “When we get our citizenship, we are going to change our names to our American names.” Tina: “They are kind of nicknames for us.” Why are you switching your names? Sarah: “No one would pronounce our names correctly. We didn’t like that. Our cousin was here before us and she found the American equivalent of our Korean names on the internet.” Do you like the names? Tina: “Yes. There are too many people using my Korean name over there. Tina is kind of special for me because I’m Asian and

I have a unique name. I like it more than my Korean name.” Sarah: “I don’t like my American name. I am used to it – whenever someone calls for Sarah, I turn around. A lot of people have that name, and it’s obvious I don’t look like a Sarah.” Future duty assignment: Sarah: “Fort Lewis, Wash. We are going to the same unit. Our sergeant told us it was surprising we were going to the same unit.” Tina: “When it happens, it happens.” Was that requested? Sarah: “No. We did the battle buddy system to here (advanced individual training).” Tina: “Our recruiter told us the battle buddy system only applied while we were in training, but it wouldn’t affect our assignments.” How do you feel about the joint assignment? Tina: “There are a lot of things that make it more uncomfortable than comfortable. We get attention not for ourselves, but as sisters.” Sarah: “They get confused on who is whom. Even our friends get us

confused. Everyone thinks we are twins and sometimes if one of us does something better than the other, it’s not recognized as something different. We’re in the same room right now, and we fight a lot.” Tina: “We’ve been together for 18 years now. There are a lot of things we don’t like about each other. When we first got here, we had separate rooms, but in every formation and in every class, we were next to each other because it was alphabetical.” Is there anything you like about your sister being so close? Sarah: “In basic training, we were in different platoons, so we couldn’t really talk. That was the time we missed each other a lot.” Tina: “My parents always said she could do stuff better than I could and that I was a lazy child. I wanted to quit so badly.” Sarah: “She was crying.” Tina: “I was really sick during the first two weeks, and I wanted to quit. But if I quit, I felt like my parents would be disappointed in me because she (Sarah) was still here.”

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Sarah: “It was good because we were in different platoons and her platoon sergeant was very strict. I saw her doing stuff she never did in her civilian life. Seeing her working hard by herself really motivated me.” Why did you join the Army? Sarah: “My mom showed me some information about Army recruiting, and, she thought the benefits are really good. I was preparing to be a nurse. For me, God told me to come here, so that’s why I chose to join.” Tina: “I’m not really sure why I joined. I guess it’s to get to know myself better. I don’t have anything I’m good at, so I couldn’t find my future. I can’t picture it. My mom asked me about the Army too. I figured that was the best thing to do. I just graduated high school, and I wasn’t sure about going to college.” Future Army goals: Sarah: “I’m going to see how I like the MOS I’m in, but my goal is to try for chaplain’s assistant once I get my citizenship.” Tina: “I’m going to stay with

Pvts. Seongeun (left) and Yeeun Cho

this MOS for four years until my contract ends. I’d like to go to officer school when it ends. If I don’t like it, I may just get out and go to college.” Why did your family move to the United States? Tina: “Our studies.” Sarah: “Our parents moved here because of us. In Korea, the school environment is very hard.” Tina: “To go to good elementary schools, you have to go to good kindergarten schools.” Sarah: “It starts from the bottom. Even if you went to the best college, it’s hard to get a good job these days.” What was the hardest thing about the transition: Sarah: “English.” Tina: “Racism.” What’s the best thing

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about being here? Tina: “I want my kids to live in America.” Sarah: “Some people say the American dream is gone, but I think it’s still here. It’s better than other countries around the world. I want my life to be free. I want to do whatever I want to do, and America gives you that chance. That’s why I want to stay here.” Favorite food: Sarah: “Pork belly.” Tina: “Chicken. Anything chicken.” Worst fear: Sarah: “Death.” Tina: “Failure.” Hobbies: Sarah: “I like to sing. I like to play with my brother. “ Tina: “I like to dance and play computer games.” – Compiled by Amy Perry

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WASHINGTON – President Donald J. Trump told a joint session of Congress last night that the United States will work with a coalition to “extinguish” the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria from the planet. Trump also told Congress he will forward a fiscal 2018 budget request that will increase defense spending by $54 billion and eliminate sequestration. Carryn Owens, the widow of fallen Navy SEAL Senior Chief Petty Officer William “Ryan” Owens, received a standing ovation from Congress. Carryn sat in the gallery with first lady Melania Trump. “Ryan died as he lived: a warrior, and a hero – battling against terrorism and securing our nation,” Trump said during his address. The nation will never forget Owens’ sacrifice for the United States as he fought terrorists in Yemen, the president said. Trump listed what he has done since taking office just over a month ago. This includes directing the Defense Department to work with other agencies to develop a plan to destroy ISIS. Defense officials delivered that plan to the White House this week. The president also imposed new sanctions on entities and individuals who support Iran’s ballistic missile program, ordered a review of military readiness and pledged to rebuild the armed forces. “To keep America safe we must provide the men and women of the United States military with the tools they need to prevent war and – if they must – to fight and to win,” Trump said. The fiscal 2018 defense budget request will rebuild the military and eliminate sequestration, he said. It will contain one of the largest defense spending increases in American history, Trump said. “The challenges we face as a nation are great, but our people are even greater,” he said. “And none are greater or braver than those who fight for America in uniform. To those allies who wonder what kind of friend America will be, look no further than the heroes who wear our uniform.”

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10 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

23rd QM Brigade ball, morning run promote Ready, Resilient Campaign “Readiness and Resiliency” was the central theme for two 23rd Quartermaster Brigade events here Feb. 16. More than 3,400 Soldiers and Airmen assembled at Williams Stadium well before daybreak to complete a 3-mile run led by Col. Tamatha A. Patterson, brigade commander, and supported by Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, and Command Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel J. Bartee, CASCOM CSM. The expanded formation, comprised of over two-dozen units, stretched more than a half mile as it wound its way across post and onto the Ordnance Campus before returning to Williams Stadium. Throughout the affair, motivated troops cheered, sang cadence and shouted unit mottos in a show of military pride and unity. Later that evening, the second annual Ready and Resiliency Ball at the Lee Club was attended by more than 425 military personnel from across the installation, along with many family members and special guests. “This event provides us an ideal opportunity to recognize the individuals and installation support agencies that contribute to the overall readiness of the command and promote the resiliency of our troops and families every day,” Patterson said.

Contributed Photo

Battalion and company leaders from the 23rd Quartermaster Brigade strut their stuff on the dance ﬂoor at the Lee Club during the second annual Ready and Resiliency Ball, Feb 16.

“The evening also is a time of fellowship and socializing in a fulfilling environment. Without our families and support agencies, this command could not accomplish the Army chief of staff’s No. 1 priority of being ‘Ready.’” Brig. Gen. Rodney D. Fogg, QM School commandant, introduced Williams as the event’s keynote speaker. In his remarks, the commanding general zeroed in on the many programs and resources here that fulfill the mental, physical and spiritual fitness needs of service members. He noted how their team efforts contribute to the

overall concept of “readiness.” Williams framed Readiness and Resiliency as “how you rest while you are running,” alluding to the ability to control one’s pace, positive mental attitude and other factors influenced by training and confidence. “Day to day, Army life is similar to running a marathon,” he noted. “You must be able to rest while running.” The 23rd QM Brigade’s vision, Williams said, has instilled a “cultural change directly linking personal resilience to unit readiness.” He encouraged leaders to continue to promote a culture of trust

while fostering dignity and respect through proper training and skill development. “No matter the environment, (readiness and resiliency) is everyone’s responsibility, so stay focused,” he directed. The brigade’s ready and resilient campaign is based on these fundamental pillars of medical readiness – the Sexual Harassment and Assault Response Program, equal opportunity, retention, safety, spiritual resiliency and community partnerships. Over the past year, the brigade has made significant gains in each of these areas with notable efforts like the Soldier Mentorship Program, an annual Women’s Leadership Symposium, Petersburg School District partnerships, and others. After Williams’ remarks, Patterson presented him a memento for his words of encouragement and wisdom. She then recognized several members of the brigade team for their contributions to the ready and resilient campaign. Additionally, she lauded Kenner Army Health Clinic and the Soldier Support Center for their support. With pride and unit camaraderie running high, command teams headed for the ballroom dance floor, many of them sporting sunglasses to bring additional flair to their trendy, ready and resilient dance moves. Not wanting to miss out on the frivolities, others quickly swarmed the floor, showing high morale and esprit de corps for their unit and the 23rd QM Brigade. – 23rd QM Brigade

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Virginia National Guard troops shoot at targets on a Fort Pickett ﬁring range during the guard’s Soldier and Noncommissioned Ofﬁcer of the Year Competition Friday - Sunday. Eight individuals from across the state competed. The winners are Spc. Mackinley Canan from the Leesburg-based 116th Infantry Regiment, and Sgt. David Perry, assigned to the Maneuver Training Center, Fort Pickett. They will compete in a regional competition in West Virginia later in the year.

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 11

Sgt. Maj. Dejarius Jones, Wheel Maintenance Department SGM, places an academic streamer on the phase banner (guidon) for Class 503 while Robert Garrison, WMD director, in the background, does the same for Class 506 during a Feb. 16 ceremony on the Ordnance Campus.

Contributed Photo

Soldiers earn coveted streamers with strong classroom showing Capt. Russell Vickers Commander, Echo Co., 16th Ord.

Many Soldiers struggle with the transition from a tactically minded “boot camp” environment to the increasingly technical world of advanced individual training. It usually means returning to the dreaded classroom, absorbing volumes of information passed along by instructors, studying and fretting over tests, and enduring the high-stress scrutiny of written exams and hands-on assessments. For 91-Bravo Wheel Vehicle Mechanic trainees assigned to Echo Company, 16th Ordnance Battalion, the 13-week path to becoming qualified in their chosen military occupational specialty includes an additional factor known as Reverse Cycle Training that makes it even more challenging. The students attend class from 6 p.m. - 2 a.m. daily. The schedule is necessary to make the best use of the Ordnance School’s training facilities and equipment. The 91-Bravo instruction is divided into nine modules with class topics like shop safety, fundamentals of brake systems, mechanical theory, electrical system maintainence and more. There is an endof-course field exercise, as well, in which students must demonstrate their ability to perform many of the skills taught in the classroom and the basic warrior tasks and battle drills expected of every Soldier. Recognizing the demands of such courses, 16th Ord. Battalion leaders have developed a way to encourage and recognize top performers. As part of the “Platoon Honors” program, classes that achieve superior grade scores are presented a brightorange academic streamer during a company formation. It is ceremoniously placed on their guidon by battalion and training department leaders.

The most recent recipients are Class 503b-17, a.k.a. the “Storm Troopers,” and Class 506b-17, the “War Eagles.” The students have been in training since Dec. 2 and Nov. 25, respectively. Class 503 achieved an academic average of 97.03 percent and Class 506 was not far off that mark with an academic average of 96.25 percent. Their streamers were presented Feb. 16 by Sgt. Maj. Dejarius Jones and Robert Garrison, the SGM and director, respectively, of the Wheel Maintenance Department. Echo Co. leaders are understandably proud of this accomplishment. It is only the fifth time the academic streamers have been presented since the Platoon Honors program began more than two years ago. “This dedication to excellence not only shows the fortitude and work ethic of the Soldiers in each platoon, but also that of their WMD mentors and AIT platoon sergeants,” said one company leader. Staff Sgt. Melissa Gauthier is the platoon sergeant for Class 506 and Staff Sgt. Willie Davis III holds the same billet for Class 503. Both expressed pride and excitement over the accomplishment. “It’s awesome. I’m very happy and proud of the class,” said Gauthier, who also acknowledged she “may have been a motivating factor” behind the accomplishment. Davis, a Reserve drill sergeant augmentee from Mississippi, said he thinks his platoon has “hit a great milestone” because an award like this doesn’t come along every day. “These two classes have set a new high standard and expectation for their peers as they prepare to move forward to the operational Army,” he noted. Both of the honored classes are scheduled to graduate this month. They must maintain an academic average above 95 percent to retain the streamers.

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T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

Photo illustration by T. Anthony Bell

sk Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gabino Seda about his time in the rigger career field and the now-retired Soldier comes off rather formal – “Served 36 years ... logged more than 400 jumps … tested various parachute and airdrop systems … ensured troops were trained … .” Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. Inquire about what it took to accomplish those feats, however, and the formalities cease, a tad of emotion emerges and he goes into detail about boat building in his native Puerto Rico. Boat building in the sunny Caribbean? One could easily connect the activity with a self-presented gift following a successful stint in the Army. Not even close, but more on that later. The 58-year-old Seda, who celebrated his retirement Wednesday, closed out his career as senior airdrop advisor for the Quartermaster School’s Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department. He has served all over the world in various capacities and has deployed twice to Iraq and once to Honduras. In

Of The Boat Builder’s Son How a small-town boy’s childhood prepared him for the rigors of military life

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retrospect, he said he feels a sense of accomplishment. “I feel good about the significant changes that have been made,” noting his input into the many improvements to airborne equipment, procedures and policy over the past decade, “and the changes I was able to make for the better in every unit and command I was assigned.” Seda’s path to the Army’s airborne community might be considered non-traditional. He was a high school biology teacher who wanted to do something different and figured jumping out of planes was the fix. He received airborne training at Fort Benning, Ga., and later headed to Fort Lee for rigger school. “From the moment I got here and got exposed, I found that unique mix of camaraderie, discipline and challenge,” he recalled. “I said ‘I want to be part of this, to be successful at it and enjoy this as long as I can.’’’ Seda, who transitioned to the the Warrant Officer Corps in 1992, eventually became the most senior airdrop systems technician in the Army and, by default, the Department of Defense. He went on to serve with the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, N.C.; Southern European Task Force, Italy; U.S. European Command, Germany; U.S. Central Command, Kuwait; U.S. Forces-Korea and Eighth Army, South Korea; and U.S. Army Pacific Command at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. While Seda was hard-charging in aircraft hangars all over the world and impacting his career field, he also was managing hardships. In 1995, his wife was killed in an auto accident, leaving him the single parent of four school-aged children. To compound the situation, he was the shop officer for a unit where the duty day started and ended in darkness. “I dealt with that until 1998,” said Seda, noting his second wife helped to raise his kids and his family managed mostly without him. “Nothing comes without sacrifices. I spent a great amount of time away from home; I missed countless birthdays, anniversaries and soccer games. You name it.”

Seda also had been dealing with what he thought were unfair assessments of his work. He said he dramatically decreased accidents and substantially reduced the work backlog among other accomplishments in a five-year stint as shop officer. By most accounts, he would have received a Meritorious Service Medal for his performance. Instead, his work was only good enough for an Army Commendation Medal. A stinging insult to someone who took on every opportunity to excel, Seda said the ordeal – the insult and the recourse to fight it – was devastating. It never pushed him, however, to the edge of becoming embittered or vengeful. “It only made me stronger,” he said, his trembling voice an indication the pain remains fresh. “All the hard work I did; the only satisfaction I got out out it was that I worked out to be a better person, better man and better officer.” To Soldiers such as Sgt. 1st Class Scott Mitsuno, who was assigned with Seda in South Korea, his hardship was invisible; overshadowed by his desire to teach, coach and mentor in addition to his vast knowledge and expertise in his chosen craft. “He’s a rigger god,” said the ADFSD operations division noncommissioned officer in charge. “Hands down, I think I’m one of the most knowledgeable senior NCOs in the rigger field, but I can’t even get close to Chief Seda’s capabilities. His ability to test, question on the spot, maneuver and assess the situation with the Soldiers he leads is amazing.” Those abilities was largely responsible for Seda’s promotion shortly after his shop officer assignment. He also went on to earn a long list of accolades and awards to include an impact Bronze Star in Operation Iraqi Freedom and an assignment as the senior airdrop advisor with U.S. Army Pacific, one of the largest commands in the Army. On his assignment with ADFSD, Seda said his job is to “ensure every rigger leaves here with the SEE JOURNEY, PAGE 15

scenes WKH

Photos by Lesley Atkinson

(ABOVE) Fort Lee Bowling Center Operations Assistant Frank Carrington chats with co-worker Heather Souza while working the sales counter where rental shoes are passed out, lanes are assigned and payments are made. (LEFT) Carrington speaks with Pvt. Brandon Stoops, an Ordnance advanced individual training student. (BELOW) Carrington gives a receipt to a Soldier.

FMWR employee helps troops, families enjoy their ‘spare’ time Lesley Atkinson Family/Community Life Reporter

The expression jack-of-all-trades refers to a person who can skillfully juggle many different tasks and doesn’t get flummoxed by the innevitable work-related curveballs. Frank Carrington at the Fort Lee Bowling Center is the embodiment of that description. In his role as an operations assistant, he works the cash register, manages the lanes, keeps the facility clean, helps with setting up games and assists the snack bar crew. His late-shift duties also include closing out cash registers and securing the building for the night. Carrington has been working for the Family and MWR facility for 14 years. He said he attributes the excitement he still feels about his job to one main thing ... the opportunity to be around “his military family.” Hailing from the small town of Turbeville, Carrington was drafted into the Army in 1971. He served as a military policeman and spent most of his career in the field with combat units. Army downsizing brought an end to his 22-year career in 1993. Fort Lee was his

last assignment. After retiring, Carrington did odd-and-end jobs, and eventually was swayed to apply for the position at the bowling center by a former manager who thought it would be ideal for his customer-service skill sets. Carrington’s initial duties included working in the snack bar and providing security on the weekends. The list of responsibilities grew over the years until they reached the multi-talented level they’re at today. “I feel like I do a lot of good work,” he said. “I might not be electronically savvy with all the new technology, but the things I do contribute are valuable. “There is a saying I always keep in the back of my mind,” Carrington continued. “‘You don’t always get paid for what you are worth.’ Everybody thinks they’re worth more than what’s in that paycheck. It doesn’t bother me, I don’t care about the pay. I do this because I like to be around the Soldiers, I do it for them.” Proving the notion that a disciplined Army life stays with an indivdual for the rest of his days, Carrington said a big frustration of his job is Soldiers not following

the rules. “For example, there is a sign that reads no food or drinks allowed on the approach or near the alley,” he said. “It’s posted for a reason and should not be ignored. Having wet or sticky substances can affect a bowler’s delivery and may cause a fall and injury. “I tell patrons that following signs could save lives in some cases,” he continued. “If you can’t read signs, you can’t make it in combat. You could be killed even in friendly circumstances. I get a lot of interesting comments., but I think most understand the deeper meaning of what I’m trying to say.”

Carrington also offered the perspective of someone who was sworn into the Army 45 years ago and has seen many military changes especially with Army uniforms. “They go through so many types.” He also said tattoos are acceptable and “can be seen everywhere now.” He said he would like to see Soldiers better respect the uniform like he did. “I don’t like it when they have their hat off outdoors or their jacket. It looks unprofessional. When I was in, we couldn’t do that.” The single dad of two daughter who are away at college said he likes to travel when he’s away from the job. He has been all over the world but wants to see more in the United States. So far, he said, North Carolina has been his favorite place to visit. He likes the city life of Charlotte and the country living outside the city. Carrington has no plans of leaving the bowling center anytime soon. He said he is looking forward to the grand opening of the new 32-lane bowling alley under construction at the corner of Lee and C avenues. “The talk of a new bowling alley was even around in 1993, he said. “This bowling alley has been here a long time with some modifications. I am looking forward to the new facility.” This is the second installment of a new Traveller story series focusing on the individuals who work “behind the scenes” at our post shipping, dining and recreational facilities.

3/1/2017 4:27:27 PM

12 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 13

T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

Photo illustration by T. Anthony Bell

Of The Boat Builder’s Son How a small-town boy’s childhood prepared him for the rigors of military life

001TRA03022017.indd A12-A13

scenes WKH

Photos by Lesley Atkinson

FMWR employee helps troops, families enjoy their ‘spare’ time Lesley Atkinson Family/Community Life Reporter

3/1/2017 4:27:27 PM

14 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

Ray Kozakewicz

Co-authors Kevin Born and Alexander Barnes pose with a Desert Battle Dress Uniform, playfully called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chocolate Chip,â&#x20AC;? at the U.S. Quartermaster Museum Feb. 14.

Kevin Born

This group of badges represents a small sample of the hundreds of U.S. and theater-made uniform items depicted in the new book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Desert Uniforms, Patches and Insignia of the U.S. Armed Forces.â&#x20AC;?

(PSOR\HH UHWLUHH VKDUH KLVWRU\ SDVVLRQ LQ 8 6 PLOLWDU\ GHVHUW XQLIRUP ERRN Ray Kozakewicz Production Assistant

Thanks to the generosity of military members who literally gave up the uniforms they wore on their backs, Alexander Barnes and Kevin Born have successfully authored a new book that is educating readers on the nuances of desert uniforms. After more than two years, their 344-page hardcover reference book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Desert Uniforms, Patches and Insignia of the U.S. Armed Forcesâ&#x20AC;? was published in late 2016. It features more than 1,000 mostly color photos with detailed descriptions of a variety of uniforms, different unit patches and insignia and more. They had lots of willing help tracking these down â&#x20AC;&#x201C; locally and around the globe. To handle the massive project, they set up a small studio in Bornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house and spend nights and weekends photographing and scanning several hundred donated and loaned uniforms, patches and insignia worn by U.S. Armed Forces. Barnes, a former Marine and National Guardsman, and Kevin Born, chief of the Collective Training Development Division in theCASCOM G-3/5/7, and retired Army major, often just needed to walk around CASCOM for help. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Working in a building with so many military This manikin in an exhibit at the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum is wearing a full Desert Battle Dress Uniform â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a hat, weapon, and boots â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that were worn in the Desert Storm era. Ray Kozakewicz

veterans,â&#x20AC;? said Born â&#x20AC;&#x153;one is bound to run into some who had served during the desert period. Retired Col. Charles (Charlie) Brown, director of the Battle Lab, gave me his 6-colored uniform from Desert Storm and 3-colored Desert Combat Uniform from Afghanistan. And on the day he retired, he loaned me his Army Combat Uniform off his back, which is in the book illustrating the transition to the ACU uniform.â&#x20AC;? Born said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;In another example, one day I walked out of my office in the CASCOM G-3 area and 10 feet away in Jason Aleoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cubicle was hanging a rare desert Close Combat Uniform from his service as a field artillery captain with a Stryker Brigade Combat Team. I asked to borrow it as well as photos of him wearing it in Northern Iraq. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s included on two pages in the book. Barnes, who retired as a CASCOM logistics management supervisor in 2015, has similar accounts of those assisting with the book. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I sent an email to Lt. Gen. (Mitchell) Stevenson (in England), a former CASCOM commander, and asked if he could share a photo of his service. He replied a day later, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What do you need, and how soon?â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? said Barnes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He was in a civilian job, but he stepped forward and sent us a great picture of him in the desert.â&#x20AC;? Born continued, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I walked by Chaplain (Maj.) Stanton Trotterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office one day, and saw a set of framed photos from his service with the 10th Mountain Division very early in Afghanistan in 2001. He kindly loaned several for us to scan. These appear in the book with Trotter praying next to a Soldier.â&#x20AC;?

Barnes and Born together have more than 50 years of military service and share a long history and avid passion for military collecting. Barnes has a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in anthropology, grew up in a military family and has co-authored three other books on military history as well as writing many articles on the subject. Born has a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in history and education and has authored numerous articles on military insignia collecting, an area he has focused on for more than 40 years. While they worked at CASCOM for a number of years, they did not know each other until the August 2011 earthquake in Central Virginia. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Al and I are both members of the U.S. Militaria Forum and he commented about the earthquake on the forum that night,â&#x20AC;? said Born. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I saw his post and realized there was another military collector one floor above me. I reached out to him through the forum.â&#x20AC;? Barnes said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the earthquake was the catalyst.â&#x20AC;? They soon discovered like-minded military collectors on Fort Lee who included Richard Killblane, the Transportation School historian, and then Lt. Col. (now Col.) Robert Nay, the former deputy installation chaplain. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We met periodically at lunch to talk about our collecting interests,â&#x20AC;? Born said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The seeds for the book came out of these discussions.â&#x20AC;? They also collaborated on several articles in Military Trader Magazine that allowed them to get used to each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s writing styles and served as practice for writing the book. SEE BOOK, PAGE 19

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 15

JOURNEY | Rigger Soldier ends 36-year career with honor, appreciation Continued from page 12

T. Anthony Bell

Chief Warrant Ofﬁcer 5 Gabino Seda, the retiring Army airdrop advisor for the Quartermaster School’s Aerial Delivery and Field Services Department, has overcome various hardships in his 36-year career.

greatest understanding of what it is to be a rigger.” He seemed particularly proud of how much better trained riggers are today compared to just a few years ago. “The way we teach our students today, wherever they are assigned, to include special operations units, they will be able to function from day one,” he said, noting students are now exposed to free-fall systems used by special operators. “Today’s riggers leave here with a level of expertise even experienced riggers don’t have because they were never exposed to the newer systems.” Making sure Soldiers can

perform their missions has been the impetus for much of Seda’s career, despite the fact it has not always been easy. He acknowledged teaching and impacting Soldiers is something he will miss. “It has been something very, very close to my heart,” he said. Boat building has also been close to his heart – not the variety that evokes leisure and scenes of a turquoise horizon – but his father’s old world craft and the associated toil and struggle of his upbringing in Arroyo, Puerto Rico. “He was a fisherman with a fifth grade education and no formal training,” Seda said of the late Elpidio Seda. “He learned to build his own

fishing nets and boats. “As a young kid living in a very small town back in the ‘60s, in an old wooden shack with about six or seven of us there at the time, he used to make templates out of cardboard to make the ribs of the boat.” Seda said he and his siblings would go to the woods and “find the right tree and put the template against the branch, cut the branch, take it home and cut every single rib by hand to build the boat.” The work was tedious and exhaustive and attention to detail was essential, said Seda, his eyes and voice expressing hardships beyond what his words could articulate. In retrospect, boat

building prepared Seda for the rest of his life. “It pushed me,” he said. “Everything that I’ve done in my life, including today, I have done to the best of my ability because that was embedded into me by my father at a very young age ... He gave me the desire and drive to go one step further; ‘do your job to the best of your ability.’” In short, it was boat building that made Seda a better Soldier, one who eventually earned the highest position in his career field; and one who – having survived his impoverished childhood – was well prepared to navigate the often turbulent storms of an Army career. Seda and his wife Injeong have plans to relocate to Orlando, Fla., for his retirement.

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16 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

garrison support recognition

Photos by Sarah Gauvin

(ABOVE) Col. Adam W. Butler, Fort Lee garrison commander, offers opening remarks at his ﬁrst town hall session Feb. 22 in the Soldier Support Center auditorium. During the employee gathering, Butler recognized volunteers within the community and awarded more than 70 individuals with length of service awards, ranging from 5-50 years of service. (RIGHT) Greg Johnson, Directorate of Family and MWR, poses with Col. Adam W. Butler, garrison commander, after receiving recognition for 50 years of service during the town hall session.

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A group of Soldiers from Victor Company, 262nd Quartermaster Battalion, pose with certiﬁcates they recently earned for completing the Drivers’ Training Course. The Soldiers – all on holdover awaiting departure to their next duty assignment – were given the course as part of a partnership between their unit and the 508th Transportation Co., 266th QM Bn. This training helped prepare the Soldiers for their follow-on assignments, unit leaders said.

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 17

culinary event ready to heat up Lee saluted by local chamber

Contributed Photo

Staff Sgt. Doyle Coffman, an Ordnance School instructor, poses with Hopewell and Prince George business representatives at the HPG Chamber of Commerce 6th Annual Membership and Awards Ceremony breakfast Feb. 22 in Hopewell. On behalf of Fort Lee, Coffman accepted a Community Service Award that recognizes the many hours of volunteer service Army community members contribute to the neighboring communities. “We have come to rely on the amazing support of our military volunteers,” said Wendy Austin, 2016 HPG Chamber president. “From help with festivals, and trail and river cleanups, to nursing home visits and furniture moving, the value of their support cannot be measured. You (Fort Lee members) are part of our community. You’re neighbors and friends, and we cherish that relationship.”

Face-to-face classes at Fort Lee

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Spc. Sheah Johnson of the Fort Stewart, Ga., culinary team, empties vegetables into a container during the Student Chef of the Year event in last year’s Military Culinary Arts Competitive Training Event at the Post Field House. This year’s event will take place at the MacLaughlin Fitness Center, Saturday - March 9. It kicks off with the Armed Forces Chef of the Year competition and features a variety of events to include all kinds of skill showcases, celebrity appearances and cooking demonstrations. Additionally, a food challenge event allows spectators to experience a gourmet-level meal for less than $6 on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis. For schedules and other information, visit www.facebook.com/army. culinary.

Stop by CMU’s Fort Lee office for more information! 700 Quarters Road Building 12400, Room 145 804-732-6082 FortLee@cmich.edu

Central Michigan University Central Michigan University is certified to operate in Virginia by SCHEV, 101 N. 14th St., Richmond, VA 23219. CMU is an AA/EO institution, providing equal opportunity to all persons, including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities (see cmich.edu/ocrie). 46353 1/17

18 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

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When your child is ďŹ nding it hard to cope, we are here to help.

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If your child is showing signs of extreme distress, come to us. Our team of behavioral healthcare specialists provides acute care when your child is feeling overwhelmed. With our newly renovated facility and programs that meet the needs of adolescents, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to give young people and their families the tools needed to get through the tough times. We provide free assessments 24/7, at the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only freestanding psychiatric facility. And, our evidence-based program is tailored to treat patients dealing with a wide range of emotional issues.

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Col. Sean P. Davis, 59th Ordnance Brigade commander, welcomes new permanent party Soldiers and spouses to the brigade during the inaugural Power Academy Feb. 22 on the Ordnance Campus. Fortynine permanent party Soldiers and family members participated in the event. It serves as a unit orientation, providing programs and service, and missionspeciďŹ c briefs from the 832nd Ord. Battalion and 16th Ord. Bn. command teams, and a welcome from the Ordnance Corps Regimental Command Team. The morning was closed out with a potluck lunch social, allowing all staff to welcome their new colleagues.

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The latest episode of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soldiersâ&#x20AC;? video series was released Monday, focusing on two medics giving their all in the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Medic competition. Sergeants Jarrod Sheets and Matthew Evans, two medics from the 10th Mountain Division, were among the 30 teams of Soldiers from across the Army who tested their physical and mental readiness during the annual competition at Camp Bullis, Texas. Sheets and Evans placed 11th during their first Best Medic attempt. With the goal of placing higher in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competition, they returned for the second attempt in October. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was insane what the competition puts them through,â&#x20AC;? said the episodeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s producer Pete Ising, who remembered Sheets and Evans from their first competition. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To see these guys come back and go through the madness again, I thought, these guys are gluttons for punishment.â&#x20AC;? Ising said the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soldiersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; team spent five days on location filming the competition.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they were up for 24 hours, you were up for 24 hours,â&#x20AC;? Ising said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they were going through an event, we were right there with them.â&#x20AC;? Throughout the events, the competitors were pushed to their breaking point, but according to Ising, â&#x20AC;&#x153;no one fell out and everyone finished.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;(The competition) really opened my eyes to what it takes to be a great combat medic,â&#x20AC;? Ising said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The amount they had to push, event after event, was incredible.â&#x20AC;? More episodes of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soldiersâ&#x20AC;? will become available later in the year at an expected rate of one each month. In the coming months, two more episodes of the current season will air, one in April and another in May: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Workforce Warriorâ&#x20AC;? will look at the process of transitioning from active duty to the civilian workforce and examine how work-study programs are helping veterans. â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Empire Shieldâ&#x20AC;? will explore the work of members of the New York National Guard who have been assisting the New York City Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security, safeguarding New York City as part of Task Force Empire Shield.

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 19

BOOK | They accumulated over 1,000

desert patches and over 300 uniforms Continued from page 14 However, there were no plans yet for a book. Barnes continued, “We started having lunches with others who had the same interest. After several, we decided to have a military swap meet at Fort Lee.” Three annual gatherings took place and there was a huge interest, Barnes said. “After one of these, we said, ‘We need to do something about all these desert uniforms. If we don’t, it will be hard to do it in 20 years.’” The two were unsure of any interest in a book about desert uniforms. “It was such a short period of military history,” noted Barnes. Others at Lee changed their minds. “It was one of these serendipity things,” said Barnes as they began asking veterans about their desert tours. “So, you were there too. I’ll be darned. Would you have any pictures? And they would say ‘sure.’” Barnes added, “most were

surprised anyone cared. ‘You’re kidding. You really want pictures of me in Iraq. Sure – anything I have, you can have.’” The original project was smaller in scale. “We thought it would be kind of an Army patch book – showing the variations of these with a couple pictures of uniforms,” said Barnes. “But it kept growing as we felt it important to add all services.” Schiffer Publishing – the publisher of three other books by Barnes – quickly gave the go-ahead. Both were surprised to get a positive response. They were given nearly a year to pull it together – write the chapters and captions, gather the content, take photos and more. After 10 months of gathering content and expanding the book, they submitted their package in August 2015. In December, they began receiving sections of the book from Schiffer. After receiving proofs, both

saw areas where more details were needed, and they started a Facebook page to help in this process. “We got more interest from around the world,” said Barnes. In preparation for the book, they accumulated more than 1,000 government and theater-made desert patches and over 300 uniforms. A large number are in it. These came from numerous veterans and collectors. Others at Fort Lee (some retired or at other bases now) who were helpful include retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jeffie Moore, formerly with the CASCOM Proponency office; Maj Mike Bethea, an Enterprise Systems Directorate officer in CASCOM; Dr. Milt Smith, a dentist at Bull clinic; and Capt. (now Maj.) Vance Zemke, a former instructor at ALU. Born added, “I found out two weeks before Maj. Zemke was to PCS to Fort Leavenworth, Kan., that he had a huge collection of the-

ater-made patches acquired in his deployments. He kindly loaned them to me with the provision I get them back in a few days’ time for him to pack them up for the movers. I spent day-and-night scanning them. They can be found throughout the book.” The book foreword is by retired Maj. Gen. Ken Bowra, a former Special Forces officer, a friend of Barnes and Born. “He not only wrote the foreword, but he allowed us to take pictures of his personal uniforms and shared many photographs as well,” said Barnes. “He served in the entire desert uniform period, wore these uniforms and patches in Desert Storm/Somalia/Operation Enduring Freedom and many other places. Most importantly, he always had a great respect for all the men and women who served during this era.” Bowra also is a military history writer and author of two Osprey Vietnam-era books. There were some hardto-get uniforms and patches, notably CASCOM patches. “Most collectors do not

Ray Kozakewicz

This Coast Guard Desert Combat Uniform represents a chief petty ofﬁcer assigned to the 307th Port Security in Clearwater, Fla. The uniform is among the hardest to ﬁnd since only a few few thousand Coast Guardsmen deployed. This unit saw deployments to Iraq and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

have these,” noted Born. “These units are not normally in the desert environment, and fewer people were deployed from the schools. I only had a loose copy of the patch. But Al beat the bushes with all of his contacts to find a photograph of one being worn in theater, which are both in the book.” They completed their final review in August 2016 and were pleased to re-

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Debra Beaudet

ceive finished copies in late December. Born said, “writing the book was about two things for us – recognizing the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the armed forces who wore the desert uniform as well as advancing this area of military collecting. Whenever a reference like this is published, there is an increased interest among collectors.”

Cast members for the upcoming KidKapers production of “Once On This Island Jr. “sample some Caribbean cuisine to help get the feel for the culture of the islands at the Lee Theater recently. “Once On This Island Jr.” opens March 10 at 7 p.m. Additional Performances are March 11 and 17 at 7 p.m., and March 12, 18, and 19 at 2 pm. Set in the Caribbean, this vibrant fairytale tells the story of a strong young woman who follows her heart and seeks love despite all odds. It is the ﬁnal KidKapers production of the season. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door for general admission seating. For further information, call the box ofﬁce at (804) 734-6629.

20 | TRAVELLER | March 2, 2017 | www.fortleetraveller.com

KENNER CONNECTION | TRICARE FOR LIFE

Kenner staff lists steps to switching coverage plans for retirees over 65 Tereasa Wade Public Affairs Ofﬁcer

Many military retirees may not know their health benefits will change the first day of the month they turn 65. In accordance with a congressionally mandated requirement, beneficiaries lose their eligibility for TRICARE Prime when they reach their mid-60s and should switch to the TRICARE For Life program. “Previously, Kenner Army Health Clinic offered the TRICARE Plus program that allows people to remain with their primary care manager at Kenner without changes to health care,” said Belinda Perkins, health benefits advisor. “Unfortunately at this time, due to an extensive active duty population enrollment our TRICARE Plus program has a waiting list.” Put another way, it means beneficiaries turning 65 will be required to change to a civilian

primary care manager through Medicare and the TRICARE For Life program. As a TRICARE For Life beneficiary, individuals are eligible for a generous medical benefit. In order to access the full spectrum of services, however, they must purchase Medicare Part B. Without it, beneficiaries are not eligible for TRICARE For Life and only will be entitled to Medicare Part A, hospital insurance. Additionally, there will be a 10 percent penalty for each year they do not purchase Medicare Part B. Those married to an active duty service member are the exception. They do not have to purchase Medicare Part B. TRICARE For Life supplements Medicare coverage for civilian health care. The benefit package is explained in the TRICARE for Life fact sheet online. Additional information also is available in the “Medicare and You” booklet people receive in the mail from Medicare. Refer to the TRICARE section in the table of

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DEERS enrollment Retiree military identification cards must be renewed at a Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System office like the one at the Fort Lee Soldier Support Center, building 3400, 1401 B Ave. For more information, call DEERS toll free at 1-800-5389552 or go online at https://www. dmdc.osd.mil. The many advantages of Medicare are as follows: • Medicare Part A: Inpatient hospital insurance assists in covering care in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. • Medicare Part B: Outpatient medical insurance assists in covering physician services. There is a monthly premium for Part B. • Medicare Part D (Pharmacy): Assists in covering partial costs of prescribed medication. For most TRICARE beneficiaries, there is no added value in purchasing Medicare prescription drug coverage. However, for those who have

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limited income and resources, purchasing Part D may be of benefit. People may qualify for help paying for the Medicare Part D premiums, deductible and cost shares. For more information or getting help with prescription drug costs and how to apply, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit www.socialsecurity.gov. • Pharmacy Services: KAHC and other DOD pharmacies, the TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy and the TRICARE Retail Pharmacy program are available • Laboratory • Radiology After choosing a civilian PCM, ask him or her to request a copy of your records from the health facility at which you have been enrolled. If you are enrolled at Kenner, complete a Release of Information DD Form 2870 in the Medical Records Division. If any military retirees have additional questions, they can visit Perkins’ and her co-worker Joyce Harris’ office on the second floor in C-216 and C-218. Additionally, retirees can call the Health Benefits Advisors at (804) 734-9447 or 734-9448. Additional TRICARE For Life information can be obtained at www.tricare.mil/tfl.

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www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | TRAVELLER | 21

FOR THE

EVENTS Company Connect Spouses Event Registration | March 3 Army Community Service Employment Readiness Program will hold two Company Connect Employment Opportunity events for military spouses March 6, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., in building 3400, 1401 B Ave. To attend the free event, register by March 3. The Comcast Beltway Region is seeking military spouses in the Fort Lee community to fill 15 positions. For details, email michael_hackworth@ comcast.com.

Kenner Cancer Awareness Display | Ongoing Kenner Army Health Clinic is observing National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month with an educational display through March 31 in the pharmacy lobby. On March 3, community members are encouraged to wear blue in observance of National Dress in Blue Day. For details, visit www.cdc.gov.

Mid-Career Retirement Planning Seminar | March 7 Fort Lee civil service employees are invited to attend a free one-day seminar – Mid-Career Retirement Focus – March 7, 8 a.m., at the Lee Theater. The informa-

FORT LEE COMMUNITY

tion session is being hosted by the Defense Commissary Agency. The seminar is for employees who have been in federal service 7-12 years, and covers financial management options for retirement. Registration is required on a first-come, first-served basis to madoline. chambers@deca.mil. For details, call (804) 734-8000 ext. 86064.

Lee Recruit Military Job Fair | March 9 A Fort Lee Job Fair hosted by Recruit Military is scheduled for March 9, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at the Regimental Community Center, 2609 C Ave. More than 75 national and regional employers are expected with information on managerial, supervisory administrative, customer service, law enforcement, logistical, government and other positions. For details and to register, visit https:// events.recruitmilitary.com/events/fort-leejob-fair-march-9-2017#event-exhibitors.

For details, visit www.facebook.com/ pwocfortlee.

Kenner Town Hall | March 14 The next Kenner Army Health Clinic Patient Town Hall is set for March 14, 3:30-4:30 p.m., in Major General Kenner Command Conference Room 2 (Room C-102), first floor, Kenner Main. The meeting is open to the Fort Lee community and all beneficiaries. One 2017 goal is to reduce appointment no-shows. For details, call (804) 734-9277.

St. Patrick’s Day Shindig | March 17 A St. Patrick’s Day Shindig is scheduled for March 17, 8 p.m. - 2 a.m., at the HideAway, 5th Street, building 15013. The celebration includes games, dancing, door prizes and bartenders’ specials. There is no cover charge. The doors open at 6 p.m. For details, call (804) 765-1539.

PWOC Spring Retreat | March 11

SAAPM Golf Tournament Signup The Protestant Women of the Chapel Deadline | March 31

will hold a Spring Retreat March 11, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., at Liberty Chapel, Mahone and C avenues. The theme is “Overwhelmed by Him.” A pre-retreat fellowship program is set for March 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Army Logistics University in the multi-purpose room. Registration is requested for both events.

Registration is open until March 31 for the second annual Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention Month Golf Tournament set for April 7, 1 p.m., at the Cardinal Golf Club. The theme is “Sexual Assault. Sexual Harrassment. Not in Our Army.” The cost for the scramble event is $35

for members, $40 for E-1 - E-5 and $50 for others. The fee includes golf, a cart, range balls, lunch and more. For first-time golfers, free clinics will be held March 27, 29 and 31, noon - 1 p.m., at the golf course. For details, email jeffery.l.watts.civ@ mail.mil or call (804) 734-6625.

ACS Financial Readiness Class | March 14 The Army Community Service Financial Readiness Program will offer a free class titled “Understanding Insurance,” March 14, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., at ACS, building 9023. It is open to the Fort Lee community. For details, call (804) 734-6388 or visit www.leemwr.com/financial-readinessprogram-frp.

SPORTS & FITNESS FMWR 3-D Archery Shoot | March 25 Fort Lee Family and MWR Outdoor Recreation will hold a 3-D Archery Shoot Competition March 25, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., at the archery range adjacent to building 15014 on 5th Street. There will be seven divisions of competition. The cost is $10 per adult, $8 for Fort Lee permit holders, $5 for youth ages 13-17, and $3 for cubs 12 and under. For details, call (804) 765-2212.

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Calendar, continued YOUTH CYSS Youth Track and Field Registration Opens | March 13 Registration for track and field, ages 7-15, will be open March 13-31, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at CYSS Parent Central Services, building 10624, Yorktown Drive. The cost is $40 for active duty military, DOD Civilians and DOD contractors, and $50 for all others. Proof of age and current sports physical is required. Coaches are needed for several upcoming spring sports. For registration and details, call (804) 765-3852.

OUTSIDE

THE

GATE

Registration Open for VWM Run-Walk to Remember | Ongoing Registration continues for the 6th Annual Virginia War Memorial/Priority 5K Run-Walk to Remember set for April 22, 8 a.m., at 621 South Belvidere St., Richmond. The event will honor the sacrifices of America’s veterans and active military personnel. Registration is $25 for those over 12 years of age. A half-mile Kids Fun Run for youths, ages 3-12, is free. To register, visit www.vawarmemorial. org/5k. For details, call (804) 786-2060.

Free Petersburg Symphony Concert | March 3 The Petersburg Symphony Orchestra will perform a free concert March 3, 7:30 p.m., at the Beacon Theatre, 401 N. Main St., Hopewell. While the concert is free, tickets are required. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. For details, call the box office at (804) 446-3457.

Washed Ashore Opens at the Science Museum | March 4 A new exhibition “Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea” will open March 4 at the Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond. It runs until Sept. 4. The exhibit features 12 large-scale sculptures of marine life made entirely

CROSSWORD | BY SGT. MCGILLICUDDY

from plastic pollution recovered from the ocean. The museum is open 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily. The exhibit is free with museum the admission fee. Military discounts are available. For details, call (804) 864-1400 or visit www.smv.org.

Signup Deadline for Chesterﬁeld CERT Training | March 10 Sign-up for Fort Lee military members and Chesterfield County residents to attend a free Community Emergency Response Team training course is open until March 10. The classes, for ages 18 and older, are set to begin March 13, 6-9:30 p.m., at Eanes-Pittman Public Safety Training Center, 6610 Public Safety Way. Classes are held Monday and Wednesday nights over four weeks. The training will help residents become better prepared for disasters and emergencies. To register and for details, visit www. chesterfield.gov/CERT or by cert@ chesterfield.gov, or by calling (804) 7512378.

Howlett Line Van Tour | March 11 A driving tour of Civil War battle sites that played a major role in the 1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign will be offered March 11, 2-5 p.m., beginning at Henricus Historical Park, 251 Henricus Park Road, Chester. The excursion will include stops at Battery Dantzler, Parker’s Battery, Ware Bottom Battlefield, Howlett Line Park and Fort Wead. The cost is $15, and registration is required. For details, visit www.chesterfieldhistory. com or call (804) 751-4946.

Ticket Deadline for Fillthe-Bowls Fundraiser | March 15 Community members can purchase tickets until March 15 for a reception and dinner March 23, 6 p.m., at the Dunlop House Assisted Living and Memory Care facility, 235 Dunlop Farms Blvd., Colonial Heights. Proceeds benefit the Tri-Cities Alzheimer’s Association. Tickets are $20. Participants will meet and have a meal with residents. Attendees also will receive a soup bowl handcrafted by the residents. For details, call (804) 520-0050.

&8/,1$5< 7(506 T. Anthony Bell Senior Writer/Special Projects

ACROSS 1. When menu items are priced individually (three words, French) 5. A sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut 6. The main course of a meal 7. In French this means ‘everything in place’ or the practice of preparing ingredients and organizing equipment 9. To brown meat and other foods quickly with high heat 11. The practice and technique of melting foods such as cheese and chocolate 13. An Italian frozen dessert 14. This is often done with turkeys to keep the meat moist while cooking 15. A thin pancake

16. A skewer of meat, ﬁsh or vegetables 17. An extremely hot chili 18. Germany’s popular veal dish DOWN 1. A high-quality beef of Scottish origins 2. A beginning course; ‘means to whet the appetite’ 3. A proprietary hot sauce made only in Louisiana 4. A popular condiment used with Asian foods (two words) 5. Japanese for deep-fried noodles 8. A spicy sausage used frequently in Creole cooking 10. A thick spicy stew or soup laid over rice and popular in “N’Orleans” 12. Often used in Mexican cuisine, it is made from avocados and used as a dip For this week’s answers, visit www.ftleetraveller.com/ community_life/puzzle/.

www.fortleetraveller.com | March 2, 2017 | Traveller | 23

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2200 Walthall Center Drive Chester, VA 23836 All payments are with approved credit, Payments are leases and based on: Elantra and Sonata, 36 month/36000 mile lease with $2199 due at lease signing, excludes tax, tag, $595 acquisition and $499 dealer processing fees. Includes and buyer must qualify for $500 Valued Owner Coupon and $1000 Summer Sales Cash. Tuscon and Santa Fe lease payments based on 24 month/24000 mile lease with $3229 due at lease signing, excludes tax, tag, $595 acquisition and $499 dealer processing fees. Includes and buyer must qualify for $500 Valued Owner Coupon and $1000 Summer Sales Cash on Tuscon and $750 Valued Owner Coupon or Competitive Owner Coupon and $1000 Summer Sales Cash. All offers Expire 3/31/17.