The Griffon Summer 2018

PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF THE 108TH TRAINING COMMAND

GRIFFON

THE

Vol 42.2 Summer 2018

“First in Training”

RISE UP Let no voice cry out, had I only been trained. ­

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THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 3

From the Commanding General

By Maj. Gen. Mark T. McQueen Commanding General 108th Training Command (IET)

108th Training Command Teammates, Recently, I had the opportunity to visit The Veteran’s Coffee Shop in Mooresville, N.C. During the visit, I was honored to be able to meet nearly 200 Veterans, the oldest being 95 years old and the youngest was 23. All services were represented with men and women wearing hats, vests, and pins denoting their time of service to our Nation. The Coffee Shop was not only a place to gather, have a cup of Joe and to share stories,

but more it was an amazing living museum dating back 243 years. It was an incredible experience for me to walk among living legends who have passed the torch of service to each of us While talking to these American heroes, each would invariably share where they served, who they served with and ultimately what they did, many in austere and contested environments. They were able to do what they did because of the training they had received.

In this issue of the Griffon, you will note a focus on training. As I have shared before, a guiding principle of my training philosophy was forged early in my career with an Army poster depicting a National cemetery with hundreds of grave markers, and the caption stating,“let no voice cry out, had I only been trained”.

The United States Army’s mission is to deploy, fight and win the Nation’s wars. The ability to do this does not come easily, nor is just anyone able to do it. It takes committed professional warriors who are ready and trained to engage in combat operations.

In the Army’s 2018 Posture Statement, it states,“Train. Focus training on high-intensity conflict, with emphasis on operating in dense urban terrain, electronically degraded environments, and under

Task. Condition. Standard. Each of these three ingredients are fundamental for warriors to be honed and ready to conduct their individual Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills. constant surveillance.Training must be tough, realistic, iterative, and dynamic. Continuous movement, battlefield innovation, and leverage of combined arms maneuver with the Joint Force, allies, and partners must be its hallmarks.This training will require rapid expansion of our synthetic training environments and deeper distribution of simulations capabilities down to the company level to significantly enhance Soldier and team lethality.”

Within the 108th Training Command, our unit motto is,“First In Training.”.We must not only be the Army’s premiere trainers in building the Army, but we must be trained in our respective field craft. It takes officers and NCOs at echelon to insure we are trained. I expect officers to assess the readiness of their formations and develop training priorities, plan and schedule the training, and to fully resource the training to achieve the endstate of

unit readiness. But to BE trained, to actually do the training, it takes the NCO Corps to conduct the training, to standard.

Task. Condition. Standard. Each of these three ingredients are fundamental for warriors to be honed and ready to conduct their individual Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills. Additionally, we must conduct collective training which stresses our units with challenging, realistic and iterative training. We must build beyond our basic level of competencies and be able to conduct our unit missions. Moreover, I believe challenging our Soldiers and units with well planned, resourced and executed training will not only reduce our non-participants and unsat participants, it will serve to instill respect and professionalism in our NCO Corps, and ultimately will build the readiness our Army and Nation expects from us.

“First In Training”

PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF THE 108TH TRAINING COMMAND

GRIFFON

“First in Training”

Sgt. 1st Class Eric Gordon, 98th Training Division, departs from the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during the airlift event at the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 13, 2018. A rigorously coordinated event, the airlift was not only a graded task during competition, but also a morale boost for the competitors. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Devin A. Patterson) (Released)

108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General Maj. Gen. Mark T. McQueen Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert J. Riti

Public Affairs NCOIC (vacant)

98th Training Division (IET) Commanding General Brig. Gen. Miles Davis

Deputy Commanding General Brig. Gen Mark E. Black

Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. Ian Coyle

Command Chief Warrant Officer Chief Warrant Officer 5 Edward Salazar Chief of Staff Col. Daryl S. McCormick

Public Affairs Officer Maj. Michelle A. Lunato Email: michelle.a.lunato.mil@mail.mil or michelle.a.lunato.civ@mail.mil

Command Executive Officer Mr. Charles E. Fairbanks

Public Affairs NCOIC (vacant)

108th Training Command Public Affairs (IET)

104th Training Division (LT)

Public Affairs Officer Maj. Lawrence Carmack Email: lawrence.k.carmack.mil@mail.mil

Commanding General Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Edwards II

Public Affairs NCOIC Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M Litchfield Email: lisa.m.litchfield2.mil@mail.mil

95th Training Division (IET) Commander Brig. Gen. Andrew Bassford

About the Cover: RISE UP! I am obsessed with

Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. Peter T. Trotter

Hamilton, the musical and with the story of how

Public Affairs Officer (vacant)

new Republic against all odds. During the 2018

Public Affairs NCOIC (vacant)

the willingness of our Soldiers to “rise up” and not

Command Sgt. Maj. Command Sgt. Maj. John Stumph Public Affairs Officer Capt. Adrienne Bryant Email: adrienne.bryant.mil@mail.mil

a group of friends (and some rivals) formed a USARC Best Warrior Competition I was struck by throw away their shot - whether in a position of trainee or trainer, support staff or NCOIC, Soldiers across the command continued to excel and shine a positive light on the 108th -- First in Training! (courtesy photo by Sgt. 1st Class Justin McCarthy)

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.

To coordinate news coverage, contact the 108th Training Command Public Affairs Office - 704-227-2829 Deadlines: Fall: August 31, 2018 Winter: Nov. 9

108th Training Command (IET) • Charlotte, NC Vol. 42, No. 2 Summer 2018

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 5

From the Command Sergeant Major

The Last Article

By Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Riti

108th Training Command (IET)

This is the last article I will be writing as your CSM and as the CSM of the 108th Training Command, the greatest command in the US Army. My tenure and military career will end on 15 July 2018. I will be retiring after forty years of continuous service and I’m proud to say, I enjoyed every bit of it and would do anything to do it all over again. I’m constantly asked if I’m happy to be retiring and I can honestly say “No”! I will definitely miss the outstanding, professional and courageous men and women I had the honor and privilege to serve with over the last four decades. The men and women who stood ready to answer the nation’s call at a moment’s notice and without question or compromise. There is no question about it that we have the greatest and most incredible NCO corps in the world. We have amazing officers that truly understand the meaning of leading from the front and our formations are filled with the bravest Soldiers out of any one of the armed forces or any country around the world. But with that said, there is always room for improvement.

There is so much chaos in the world today that we have to constantly be completely ready and that means trained and ready to move out if and when that call comes. We’ve come a long way but still have a long way to go.

In my career I’ve seen so many changes in our Army, but the one thing that will never change is our values. Our Army Values are the foundation of everything we stand for. I’ve said it over and over that if you live by the Army Values, everything else will fall into place.

At the Drill SGT of the Year board I presided over last week, I asked the competitors what they felt the strongest value was and each replied Integrity; always doing what’s right.

One thing I feel very strongly about is mentorship. I truly

feel our Soldiers today are not mentored the way we were years ago. As a young PFC, an outstanding NCO by the name of SSG William Adkins took me under his wing and constantly taught me everything I needed to know about being a professional Soldier. And it wasn’t just me, it was every member of the squad.

Some listened and some did not.

As you can guess, the ones who listened to his guidance, his experience and his expertise were the ones who always prospered and never had problems. We need to get back to good old fashion mentoring of our Soldiers. I’m not talking about through emails, but good old fashion eyeball to eyeball counseling and mentoring.

Teaching our Soldiers what ‘right looks like’.

I also believe that our Soldiers today are starving for engaged leadership. Some of our first line leaders think that their Soldiering duties are over at the final formation of a Battle Assembly weekend. They couldn’t be more wrong. Effective leaders, first line leaders and in fact all leaders need to take extreme ownership of the Soldiers they are responsible for. Ensuring their Soldiers know everything there is to know about being proficient in their Warrior tasks and skills. I wish that those first line leaders would be more proactive in teaching their Soldiers about the Army Values and especially Integrity. Think about it, if we spent more time with our Soldiers sharing our own experiences and expertise with them about what right looks like, we could probably eliminate half of the issues that cause Soldiers to fail or get themselves into trouble.

So I ask every Green Tab Leader, to take stock in your Soldiers and train them, counsel them, mentor them and get them on that road to success. I’m tired of hearing ‘leaders’ at every level say “with everything going on we have no time for this or no time for that”.

To be perfectly honest, that’s a lame excuse. Leaders make things happen. They find time to get their Soldiers ready. They find time to train and develop their Soldiers and make them ‘All they can Be’. And here’s something I’ll say again because it’s worth repeating, Readiness is an NCO’s responsibility. The third paragraph of our NCO creed states that ‘Officers should have maximum time to complete their jobs, they should not have to do mine’! So NCOs, take ownership of Soldier Readiness, they are our future! I can’t even begin to count how

many Soldiers I’ve observed over the years that were the epitome of a true Warrior. Soldiers that will do anything asked of them and do it with pride. Let’s keep them motivated and develop them into becoming the Ultimate Weapon.

Good meaningful training and good leadership equals success.

Well, I’ll never be able to thank each of you personally for everything you do but I do appreciate the hard work you’ve put into making our Army the greatest Army on earth. I am confident that because of the outstanding men and women we have in our formations, the Army will continue to keep rolling along. At this point I would be remiss if I didn’t recognize a few great leaders who really had an enormous effect on my career.

First, SSG William Atkins who took a personal interest in me as a young PFC and developed me into an NCO. I will always be grateful to him for what he’s done for me.

May he rest in peace. CSM James Mello, a great mentor who taught me what a CSM is responsible for and held me accountable for everything that happened in my battalion. MG Robert Catalonotti, who selected me to serve as his CSM in the 1st BDE of the 98th Division. COL Joseph Bartasius, who I also served with at both Battalion and Brigade level. BG John Hussey, a hard core leader who used every opportunity to mentor me and always valued my suggestions. MG Leslie Purser, who I’ll forever be grateful to for selecting me as her CSM of the 108th Training Command. She was an incredible role model to not only female Soldiers and young officers, but to every Soldier in the command. CSM Rocci Derezza who recommended me for this position and was a great warrior that I had the pleasure of serving with in Iraq. And last but not lease,

my battle buddy and one of the greatest leaders in the history of the US Army, MG Mark McQueen.

MG McQueen is the epitome of what a General Officer should be.

At the 108th Training Command’s 2018 DSOY and BWC, I handed over the guest speaker honors to him because of his unique concern of enlisted Soldiers and the NCO corps. MG McQueen found a way to put thirty hours in a twenty-four hour day and made it happen because, he took extreme ownership of everything that was happening with every Soldier in the 108th Training Command. I can never thank him enough for being not only a battle buddy but a true friend.

And I will never ever forget, my enlisted assistant, one of the best NCOs the Army has ever known, SFC Denver Scaggs. SFC Scaggs is without question a true Warrior, an incredible mentor, and an NCO that the Army cannot afford to let go. He has done so many things for so many Soldiers that has truly impacted their decision to stay in the Army. Thank you SFC Scaggs for being a terrific friend, a great battle buddy and most of all, for being someone who truly cares about Soldiers. I wish I could mention every NCO and Officer that I’ve served with who mentored me along my career but I would feel terrible if I missed one or two of you so all I can do is say Thank You for being part of my life and my career. Thank you for the good times and being there with me for the difficult times. I will never forget any of you. I wish you all the best and ask that you never let anything get between you and your goals.

Because again, the only thing that stands between you and your goals are excuses.

Until we meet again, This we’ll Defend First in Training

6 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

IN THIS ISSUE

Columns 3 From the Commanding General 5 From the Command Sergeant Major 22 From the 95th Training Division (IET)

27 From the 98th Command Sergeant Major

41 From the 104th Training Division (LT)

Commander

Commander

26 From the 98th Training Division (IET) Commander

32

7 108th Soldiers Find Camaraderie, Training in Competition

10 Seven Army Reserve commands combine Best Warrior Competitions at Fort Knox

14 Behind the Lens – Ghost Writers Tell the Story 16 ‘Yes We Can, Yes We Do’ 18 U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers: Always on the Trail

20 Forever Family 23 Snowy 6 Mile Bug Line Trail Ruck 24 2-48th Dragoons Host Change of Command 28 Army Reserve Soldier Takes Command of

Infantry Basic Officer Leaders Course at Fort Benning

18 45 Strengthening Ties, Strengthening Soldiers 45 Live Fire Buddy

30 1BDE Family Day

46 Timberwolves Give Back to the Community

31 The Warrior Within: Strong Will Fuels Female

47 392nd Stays Sharp

Soldier Toward New Path

32 Challenge and Triumph 34 Honor, Integrity On and Off the Trail 36 Meaningful Training Enhances Readiness at Fort Jackson

38 Change of Responsibility 1BDE 39 Change of Command 2BDE 40 Change of Command 3BDE 42 2018 United States Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition

48 If it Ain’t ‘Rainin’ 49 Answering the Call 50 Camaraderie Through Training 52 Col. Hansen Takes Command 54 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion Conducts Successful Readiness Training Exercise

55 Lt. Col. Reginald T. Eggleston Takes Command of the 4-413th (SROTC)

56 Around the Command

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 7

108th Soldiers find camaraderie, training in competition

By Maj. Michelle Lunato 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer

Two Soldiers from the 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training) competed side by side with 34 other Soldiers from commands throughout the world at the U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition in Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 10-15.

Through the week-long competition that included everything from rappelling out of a helicopter to standing before a military board, the two Soldiers found camaraderie and training to be their main takeaways.

Spc. Darren O’Dell, the 104th Training Division Soldier of the Year who also claimed the 108th Training Command (IET) SoY title, said he found the USARC-level competition to be motivating on many levels.

“It was extremely challenging, both mentally and physically,” said the 21-year-old petroleum supply specialist with Detachment 3, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 398th Regiment, 104th Training Division.“But at the exact same time, it was equally rewarding. I learned a lot, and it was an honor to be asked to do this.”

As each Soldier in the competition was representing their command as the Soldier or Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, O’Dell said he gave it his all at every event. When it came to basic rifle marksmanship, warfighter drills and the military board, the 104th/108th Soldier of the Year said he felt pretty comfortable.

“Those things I know like the back of my hand. So I had no problem with them. I went in thinking, OK, I got this,” said O’Dell.

However, the young Soldier said he did find some events more challenging, like a swimming event that was part of the German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency, an added component to this year’s Best Warrior Competition.

The unique experiences and challenges made the commandlevel event even more exciting to O’Dell though.

“This was way more and way better than I thought it was going to be. I’ve gained so much experience…and went much further than I thought I was going,” said the Carbondale, Illinois resident.“I got to rappel out of a helicopter. I got to shoot Sniper rifles, AT4s, and every weapon system that everybody drools over, and I got to shoot them and have fun.”

U.S. Army Reserve Spc. Darren Odell, a petroleum supply specialist from Carbondale, Illinois, with Detachment 3, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 398th Infantry Regiment, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), 108th Training Command (IET), performs a low crawl on obstacle four of the Fort Bragg Air Assault School Obstacle Course. Touching the barbed wire with any part of their body during this lane results in disqualification, requiring the competitor to be returned to the beginning of the lane to try again or continue with a loss of points. Thirty-six warriors continue to vie for the title of United States Army Reserve Best Warrior during the grueling multifaceted competition that has so far included elements of physical training, weapons marksmanship and familiarization, warrior tasks and battle drills, essay writing, German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge testing and many other events. The competition began 9 June and will conclude with an awards luncheon 15 June, 2018. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M. Litchfield/released

The variety and schedule of events through the week was left mainly unknown to the competitors.This manner of competition is an effective way to force the Soldiers to pull from their previous experiences and knowledge rather than any last minute preparation, said fellow competitor, Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins, the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) Noncommissioned Officer of the Year who also claimed the 108th

Training Command (IET) NCoY title.

“It’s a very good way to test people, especially the NCO category,” said the cavalry scout and drill sergeant from 2nd Battalion, 398th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET).

“You don’t go into anything with any mental preparation. So you have to preform, right on the spot to the best of your ability. And that’s under stress, being tired and it’s all

timed.”

Hopkins, like O’Dell, found some tasks more fun rather than challenging due to his experience.

“I felt extremely comfortable with the pistol range. I was in the top 10 percent who earned the Excellence in Competition points and earned the Bronze Distinguished Pistol Badge,” said the NCO from Somerset, Kentucky.

No matter how experienced CAMARADERIE continued on Page 8

8 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Camaraderie Cont’d from page 7

though, all the competitors found at least one event more difficult.

The 98th drill sergeant said he was no different, and struggled some with the night fire.

“I am just not used to shooting at night.That was pretty tough…I felt like I barely hit any targets at all,” said Hopkins with a laugh.

Like his fellow 108th competitor, Hopkins found some comfort in the military board, saying that was his moment to shine.

“I was mentally prepared to walk into the Board and know that’s my time for them to get to see me, one on one,” explained the 98th/108th NCoY. Naturally, each competitor was there to win and represent their command to the best of their ability.

However, both Hopkins and O’Dell found the competition offered more of an opportunity to learn and build bonds.

“Most of the time, we didn’t even realize it was a competition,” said O’Dell.“Most of the time it was just the camaraderie of it, helping each other out. If someone was struggling with something, we would help prep them before the event, if we knew what it was going to be.”

Rather than hoarding information to themselves, the competitors found themselves being a team sharing the same experience.

“It was more like a school than

Spc. Pateh Jawo, a medical laboratory specialist with 7387th Blood Detachment, and Spc. Darren Odell, a petroleum specialist with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 398th Regiment, 104th Training Division who won the 108th Training Command Soldier of the Year, do a few clapping push-ups after their two morning events, the Ruck March and the Obstacle Course, during the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition in Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 10-15. More than 35 Soldiers representing seven Geographic Commands and 22 Functional Commands, will spend the week competing in a variety of challenges including firing weapons, land navigation, the Army Physical Fitness Test, and various mystery events. These challenges will ultimately test their capabilities, combat-readiness, and lethality.

U.S. Army photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

anything since we made sure everyone was banding together,” explained the 104th/108th SoY. The hectic unknown schedule created sleep deprivation for the competitors, really pushing them

U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins, a cavalry scout from Somerset, Kentucky, with the 2nd Battalion, 398th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), 108th Training Command (IET), waits for orders as he competes in the weapons assembly/disassembly event at the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 14, 2018. Today, U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers give everything they have to push past their limits and finish the last day of events in the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Pfc. Keely Key

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 9

Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins, a drill sergeant with the 98th Training Division who won the 108th Training Command Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, sits and laughs with fellow competitors after the Obstacle Course Event during the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition in Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 10-15. More than 35 Soldiers representing seven Geographic Commands and 22 Functional Commands, will spend the week competing in a variety of challenges including firing weapons, land navigation, the Army Physical Fitness Test, and various mystery events. These challenges will ultimately test their capabilities, combat-readiness, and lethality. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

to their limits. However, that’s just Not one day. Not one hour. Not one when the Soldiers dug deeper and minute. Not one task,” said Hopkins. became a team, said Hopkins.

“We were all just pushing each “I think whenever you are put other through, task by task, day by Drill situations…you Sergeant Academy Drill Sergeant (Staff Sgt.) in adverse knowgraduate day.”

Jesse J. Miller stands proud in his that you have to stick together. It Ofinfamous course, in“brown-round” the end though, the campaign hat, the iconic drill sergeant headgear for the NCO becomes more of a survival instinct,” Best Warrior Competition is just new initial entry Soldiers will never forget.

Miller explained the 98th/108th NCoY. that, a competition.graduated Though Hopkins from the first course at won’t the academy That survival bondprimarily kept the Reserveand O’Dell move onand to spend weeks of learning how to inspire, motivate and mentor competitors moving, having fun, and represent the entire Army Reserve new Soldiers in Basic Training.

Army Reserve becoming a team along the Combat way. at the U.S. Department of thephoto Army Best by Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M. Litchfield / released “We have never looked at this like Warrior Competition later this year, a competition between ourselves. they still won in different ways.

U.S. Army Reserve Spc. Darren Odell, a petroleum supply specialist from Carbondale, Illinois, with Detachment 3, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 398th Infantry Regiment, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), 108th Training Command (IET), assembles a M9 during the weapons assembly/disassembly event at the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 14, 2018. Today, U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers give everything they have to push past their limits and finish the last day of events in the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Pfc. Keely Key

The 108th Training Command (IET) SoY and NCoY won in terms of experience and knowledge that they will now return to not only their divisions, but on to their peers, Soldiers and even future Soldiers.

And according to O’Dell, being

able to learn and become a better Soldier, is the kind of winning he can be happy with for now.

“Really I don’t think anyone lost,” said O’Dell.“At any level you compete, you learn.You don’t lose, you learn.”

10 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Seven Army Reserve commands combine Best Warrior Competitions at Fort Knox Story by Maj. Michelle Lunato 98th Training Division -Initial Entry Training

Seven U.S. Army Reserve commands tested their Soldiers in a Best Warrior Competition at Fort Knox, Kentucky, April 9-13.

The five-day, 10-event competition assessed more than 40 CitizenSoldiers from across the United States to select each command’s Soldier and Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Each champion will compete in the U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina in June.

Traditionally, the Fort Knox Army Reserve commands (84th Training Command, Army Reserve Aviation Command, and Army Reserve Careers Division) hold their Best Warrior Competitions together. However, this year they coordinated with four other commands (108th Training Command [Initial Entry Training], 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, and the Military Intelligence Readiness Command) to pool resources, be more efficient, and offer a better competition.“We made an even

better improvement on training opportunities than we had in the past,” said Command Sgt. Maj. JamesPeter Matthews, the command sergeant major for the Army Reserve Aviation Command.

With the skills sets and manpower of the various commands behind one competition, it just seemed like a combat multiplier.“As a joint effort, everybody has to contribute a few as opposed to a few contributing a lot. The combined effort not only allowed for a smoother and a more costeffective competition, but it enhanced the Soldiers drive to succeed since there was stiffer competition,” said Army Reserve Command Sgt. Maj. Lawrence Arnold, 84th Command Sergeant Major.“The Soldiers tend to excel more when they are in larger groups.”

Competing against Soldiers from other commands certainly added an element of surprise.

As the different Soldiers had never met, they had to push themselves a little harder against SEVEN ARMY RESERVE continued on Page 12

Combined Best Warrior Competition

Soldier, NCO and DSOY Winners

• 84th Training Command Soldier of the Year: Private 1st Class Ladarius Smith •NCO of the Year: Sgt. Chase Craig • Army Reserve Aviation Command Soldier of the Year: Spc. Dawson Birchall • NCO of the Year: Sgt. Ricky Elmore • Army Reserve Careers Division NCO of the Year: Sgt. 1st Class Chris Bogard • 88th Readiness Division Soldier of the Year: Spc. Cole Nelson • NCO of the Year: Sgt. Benjamin Moran • 81st Readiness Division Soldier of the Year: Spc. Christopher Abell • Military Intelligence Readiness Command Soldier of the Year: Spc. Joshua Schwartz • NCO of the Year: Sgt. Donald Smith • 108th Training Command (IET) Soldier of the Year: Spc. Darren Odell • NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins • Drill Sergeant of the Year: Staff Sgt. Shane Price • 95th Training Division (IET) Soldier of the Year: Private 1st Class Cody Campbell • NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Lucas Thomas • Drill Sergeant of the Year: Staff Sgt. Shane Price • 98th Training Division (IET) Soldier of the Year: Spc. Timothy Wadsworth • NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins • Drill Sergeant of the Year: Staff Sgt. Jonathan Roy • 104th Training Division Soldier of the Year: Spc. Darren Odell • NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. William Benson

Overall Combined Best Warrior of the 7 Commands: Sgt. Chase Craig, 84th Training Command

12 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

U.S. Army Reserve Command Sergeant Major Robert J. Riti, command sergeant major, 108th Training Command (IET), prepares to lead his last Drill Sergeant of the Year Board during the Combined Best Warrior and Drill Sergeant of the Year Competitions at Fort Knox, Kentucky April 9-13. (Riti will retire in July 2018.) Eight U.S. Army Reserve Commands combined resources to not only be efficient, but to provide the competitors a more challenging competition. The commands involved were: 84th Training Command, 108th Training Command, 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, 63rd Readiness Division, U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division, and the U.S. Army Reserve Military Intelligence Command. U.S. Army Reserve photo

by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Seven Army Reserve Cont’d from page 10

the unknown competitors.“I think [the combined competition] made it really interesting, and I really enjoyed meeting the other competitors,” said Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Jonathan Roy, a drill sergeant with 3rd Brigade, 98th training Division (IET).

Roy, who was competing in the 108th Training Command’s Drill Sergeant of the Year Competition that was being

held simultaneously with the Best Warrior Competition, said that competitions like this are a great path to self-improvement.

“I think it’s important for NCOs to continuously challenge themselves, and that was the point of this competition.”

Along with the competitors not knowing each other, the events and scheduling were kept in suspense throughout the week, and those unknown factors created an environment of stress and discomfort, said

U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Thomas Lucas, 95th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), manuevers through the obstacle course at the Combined Best Warrior and Drill Sergeant of the Year Competitions at Fort Knox, Kentucky April 9-13. Eight U.S. Army Reserve Commands combined resources to not only be efficient, but to provide the competitors a more challenging competition. The commands involved were: 84th Training Command, 108th Training Command, 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, 63rd Readiness Division, U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division, and the U.S. Army Reserve Military Intelligence Command. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

many of the Citizen-Soldiers. This anxiety is exactly why Roy, who won the 98th Training Division Drill Sergeant of the Year title, decided to compete.“I wanted to put myself in a situation that was going to be uncomfortable so I would have to push myself.”

And that is what the Soldiers did over the five days as they moved from event to event, testing their mental and physical stamina. Competitors said some days were harder than others, and events like land navigation or the military board, which was

conducted in front of stern-faced command sergeants major, posed the most mental angst for them.

But, there was no debate which day was the most physically taxing. All the competitors agreed, Day 3 was a beast.

Day 3 started at 3:30 a.m. with a 12-mile road march that included their rifle and 35-pound ruck. After a quick clean up and chow, the tired Soldiers moved directly into a series of roundrobin ranges that included land navigation, urban assault lanes, an obstacle course, drill and ceremony tasks and both 9mm and M16/M4 ranges. Rotating from range to range in separate groups gave the competitors little time to waste and it tested their desire to not only continue, but to excel.

As an Army Reserve drill sergeant who transforms civilians into Soldiers, Roy said he felt like it was his duty to push himself at every event, which refreshed his reason for serving.“Remembering what you stand for and what you are here for is really important.”

That test of drive and ability all wrapped up with the camaraderie and spirit of competition is just what makes Best Warrior Competitions so great, said Command Sgt. Maj. Michael J. Robinson, the command sergeant major for the Military Intelligence Readiness Command.“I love Best Warrior Competitions…the chance to see my peers and their Soldiers getting after it…it’s one of the best things the Army has ever created [in my opinion].”

Regardless of who won the coveted titles for each command—Soldier of the Year, NCO of the Year and Drill Sergeant of the Year—the competition served another

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 13

Staff Sgt. Paul Lydon, a drill sergeant with the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), watches for Soldiers during the 2-mile run portion of the Army Physical Fitness Test that was part of the Combined Best Warrior and Drill Sergeant of the Year Competitions at Fort Knox, Kentucky April 9-13. Eight U.S. Army Reserve Commands combined resources to not only be efficient, but to provide the competitors a more challenging competition.

The commands involved were: 84th Training Command, 108th Training Command, 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, 63rd Readiness Division, U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division, and the U.S. Army Reserve Military Intelligence Command. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Jason Cassell, a drill sergeant with the 98th Training Division (IET), sits before the board members during the Combined Best Warrior and Drill Sergeant of the Year Competitions at Fort Knox, Kentucky April 9-13. Eight U.S. Army Reserve Commands combined resources to not only be efficient, but to provide the competitors a more challenging competition. The commands involved were: 84th Training Command, 108th Training Command, 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, 63rd Readiness Division, U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division, and the U.S. Army Reserve Military Intelligence Command. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

going to be in your career— sprinting.”

That constant drive to improve is not just something for the competitors though. It should be a goal for all the support staff too, said Arnold. The 84th Command Sergeant Major said his team was looking to add more

U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Derek Hopkins, the NCO with the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) who won the NCO of the Year title for the 108th Training Command (IET), runs the obstacle course during the 2018 the Combined Best Warrior and Drill Sergeant of the Year Competitions at Fort Knox, Kentucky April 9-13. Eight U.S. Army Reserve Commands combined resources to not only be efficient, but to provide the competitors a more challenging competition. The commands involved were: 84th Training Command, 108th Training Command, 88th Readiness Division, 81st Readiness Division, 63rd Readiness Division, U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command, U.S. Army Reserve Careers Division, and the U.S. Army Reserve Military Intelligence Command. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

purpose. And that was a way to pay that training forward, said Maj. Gen. Mark McQueen, commanding general for the 108th Training Command (IET).

“Now, you have the opportunity to go back to your formations and challenge your Soldiers, and that is what I am asking you to do.”

McQueen didn’t just ask the Citizen-Soldiers to regurgitate their training experience at Fort Knox, but rather to embrace it and improve upon it regularly throughout their careers, always striving to be excellent and develop quality Soldiers. “Just like this competition here this week, I’m asking you to finish—cross that finish line, wherever that’s

commands into the fold next year, and doesn’t plan on resting on their successes. “We want to make next year’s competition even better than this year’s. And in my humble opinion, this year’s competition was the best that we have had yet.”

14 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Behind the Lens – Ghost Writers tell the story

By Maj. Michelle Lunato 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer

A good story keeps the reader’s interest. A great story makes the reader feel or act. Regardless of the format—pictures, videos or articles—stories have the power to freeze time and capture a moment of history that can never be recreated.

Sure, an event may be reoccurring, but the factors can never be all the same.Take the U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition (USARC BWC). It has occurred every year since 2007.Yet, every year is different.There are different competitors, different events and different locations. Each year, two winners are announced: a Soldier of the Year and a Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.That fact is the same. However, the stories about the Warriors are never the same… and neither are the people who write them.

Covering this year’s USARC BWC, is a team of 11 Soldiers from the 372nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD) out of Nashville,Tennessee. Made up of photo/print journalists, broadcasters and public affairs officers, the MPAD has the mission of documenting the week-long competition that features more than 35 Soldiers from seven Geographic Commands and 22 Functional Commands.The annual competition’s high operational tempo makes gathering stories a challenge. A challenge is just what Soldiers need to make themselves better though, said the unit’s leading NCO, 1st Sgt. Ryan Matson. “If everyone [challenges themselves] individually—and from what I have seen, they have— while still being a team player and helping your buddy,…we all win in

the end.”

So as the public affairs Soldiers chase after the competitors with still cameras, video cameras and tripods, they are absorbing some of that excitement, that energy, said Matson, a Wyallusing, Pennsylvania native.“To me, the thing about Best Warrior is that winning is contagious and losing is contagious.

These Soldiers competing are winners.They are challenging themselves. Even if they break their leg, they had the [courage] to do this.”

After serving in both Active Duty and Reserve capacities, Matson says a lot of people can talk a big game, but the competitors are doing more.“Well, you can talk, or you can do it,” said the first sergeant who serves as a police officer in his civilian capacity.

Being around that level of motivation and drive for excellence, is a great place for his Soldiers to be.“When they cover these events, some of that motivation bleeds through,” said Matson.

Documenting the Army Reserve wide event is something new for some of the MPAD Soldiers, and seeing an operation at that level comes with its own lessons, said the MPAD commander, Maj. Olha Vandergriff, a Clarksville,Tennessee native.“It’s really cool.You get to see all the different aspects of the competition, and what the Soldiers are going through.Then, you get tell other people what they are experiencing.”

The USARC BWC is not just an assignment for the MPAD. While they are trying to uncover the interesting and unique facts about the competitors and cadre at the fast-paced competition, they themselves are being evaluated.

Not only that, they have multiple layers of people to report to. With the 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training) taking

The mascot of the 372nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment out of Nashville, Tennessee sits at the Media Operations Center during the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition (USARC BWC). The mascot was ironically found, complete with the cowboy hat, at a gas station on the way to the unit’s annual training event, the USARC BWC. Ghostie, which is the beloved name of the mascot, started out as just an illustrated logo, which hangs on the banner on the wall. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers with the 372nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment out of Nashville, Tennessee edit their video footage into products as part of the coverage on the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition (USARC BWC) in Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 10-15. The public affairs Soldiers covered the USARC BWC not only to document the event, but to expand their skill sets as part of their annual training requirements.

charge of the overall competition, they have an NCO in charge of the Media Operations Center. With the competition being an Army Reserve wide event, USARC public affairs staff has overall content approval.

Then, for the sake of deployment validation, observer-controllers take note of how the MPAD interacts and reacts to those added layers of administration.

Layers of leadership are par for the course and should be expected in any job, said Matson.“At the end of the day, we all have a bunch of different bosses every day.There are eyes upon us every single day.”

And in this case, those eyes are watching all the public affairs tasks of writing articles, creating video packages, taking pictures, and the multitude of little steps it takes to edit, share and market all that content with the public.

So everything from the timing of a social media post to the quality of video gathered is evaluated and graded.

Working with others and getting their feedback is the best way to learn though, according to the MPAD commander.“Sgt. 1st Class [Lisa] Litchfield brings a lot of experience to this,” said Vandergriff about the 108th Training Command (IET) public affairs NCO in charge of the Media Operations Center.

“She’s done this before. So I was really looking forward to learning from her.”

Vandergriff, who comes from the Adjutant General Branch, is new to the Public Affairs mission. So she’s not just leaving the storytelling to her Soldiers. She’s doing a little writing herself in hopes of understanding some of her Soldiers’ tasks first hand.“I want to inspire my Soldiers to better themselves,” said the Reserve commander.

“Maybe they see me as a person who doesn’t normally write the articles or take the pictures, but see that I’m trying to learn the craft… that I am trying too.”

Sgt. Rachel Leis, an information

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 15

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers with the 372nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment out of Nashville, Tennessee interview a Soldier during the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition (SARC BWC) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina June 10-15. The 11-person team of public affairs Soldiers covered the USARC BWC not only to document the event but to fulfill their annual training requirements. U.S. Army Reserve Courtesy photo/released

systems analyst with the MPAD, is trying her hand at public affairs tasks too. With little experience, Leis is picking up a still camera and gathering images of the competitors’ nonstop action.

“It’s been exhausting, but fun.

Apparently, I can take photos better than I thought.”

Learning at such a high-level, intense event has more meaning, said the internet technology Soldier who hails from Sturgis, Michigan.

“Sometimes those big impactful lessons are the ones that stick with you the most.”And learning at the USARC BWC has basically been an “out of the frying pan and into the fire” kind of week, she said with laugh.

Experiencing that hectic behindthe-story process is something former Active Duty tanker, Capt.

Joseph Bisso, who is now the Army Reserve MPAD executive officer, never thought of during his previous deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and Africa.“I was always more concerned with the operational side. Now, I have to look at,‘how can we tell the story to get the message out?”

Finding creative ways to tell stories is just what public affairs is about. In fact, the 372nd MPAD’s mission can be summed up by their unit mascot,The Ghost Writers. Sneak in, get the story, and disappear, explained Matson.“The stories are not about us,” said the first sergeant who designed the logo/mascot to help create a unit identity and build morale.

And as if by fate, on the way to the USARC BWC, the MPAD found an actual replica of their illustrated logo, said the commander. “On the way to annual training, we stopped at a gas station, and there was this giant skull with a cowboy hat on that looked just like our Ghostie.

So we bought it…and probably spent too much money on it. But it’s sitting in our media operations center and just represents us, our mission.”

Like the mascot suggests, the people behind the stories generally go unnoticed, which is how many public affairs Soldiers prefer it. But with that shadowy role, comes a good bit of assumption on the part of many readers.“A lot of people don’t understand public affairs, and assume it is just taking pictures,” said Litchfield, a Bellingham, Washington native.“Creating stories and public affairs content is not always a simple task, and it’s a lot harder than many people give it credit for.”

Interesting articles require research and interviews before they can even begin to be written.

Fun and informative videos need not only a quantity of footage to be taken, but it must include quality

sequences and descriptive audio to engage an audience. Social media posts must be tailored to various platforms and delivered at certain times, regularly and frequently, to be effective.“Overall, it’s not just a point and shoot job.

It requires training, experience and professionalism, just like any other career field in the military,” explained the 108th Training Command (IET) NCOIC who has served in the public affairs field for 12 years.

Though the military occupation requires a number of tedious steps, photo/print journalist Sgt. Anshu Pandeya with the MPAD said he wouldn’t want to do anything else.“If you want to talk about public affairs, I have the best job in the Army Reserve,” said the Franklin,Tennessee resident whose now covered two USARC BWCs and other countless public affairs missions.“I get to see all different aspects of the Army and not commit to just one thing about it. I get to see something new everywhere I go, and—it’s awesome.”

Sharing all those different roles and tasks that the Army Reserve does, including searching for the Best Warrior, is a great way to bridge the gap between civilians and Soldiers, said Bisso. By sharing articles, videos and pictures about Soldiers,“we are painting a picture for those people out there who may have no interaction with the military.”

And for Citizen-Soldiers in particular, that story-telling mission is even more important, according to Bisso.“Army Reserve Soldiers are not typically from the big military

bases.They are literally from the civilian population.”

He went on to explain that through compelling content, we are telling the public to notice that their neighbors, employees or community leaders are serving their country in uniform.“Look at what comes from you.These men and women spend 90 percent of their time in your communities.

They are one of you,” but also, part of your Army Reserve.”

As the Warrior-Citizen competitors come out of the communities, it is no surprise that there is so much diversity said Pandeya, explaining that he’s interviewed competitors with jobs ranging from healthcare specialist to drill sergeant to petroleum supply specialist. People from different cultures and with varying experiences and skills make for great stories, said the public affairs sergeant.“Everyone has all these different backgrounds, and they are coming here to represent the Army, the Army Reserve. We are a pretty diverse group of people [in the unit], and so are the competitors.”

With all that he’s seen during his time in public affairs, Pandeya said he’s always been impressed that the Army and Army Reserve seem pretty progressive in terms of being a big melting pot and integrating vast groups of people and a variety of skill sets.To him, the USARC BWC competitors represent the Army Reserve, and the Army Reserve is representative of what America is.“We are working together for one mission, the same mission. So you have to be able to trust everyone you work with. It’s a one big family.”

16 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

‘Yes We Can, Yes We Do’

By SPC Tynisha Daniel WEST POINT, NY - The difference between success and failure is a team that is guided by great leadership. In the Army, in order for a platoon of Soldiers to be successful, the role of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) holds great value.

An NCOs’ mission is to fulfill what the Army calls the “backbone” of the Army. This means that as an NCO, one must take honor in leading, and investing in, the success of Soldiers following their guidance.

U.S.Army Reserve Soldiers from the 3rd Training Battalion, 304th Regiment, 104th Training Division (IET) from Saco, Maine., did just that during the 2018 Sandhurst Competition at the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point.

The 2018 Sandhurst Competition, held April 13-14, challenged the Cadets in military skills such as marksmanship, land navigation, squad assault and other mentally and physically demanding challenges.

“This week our mission has been to provide the external train up for non WestPoint teams,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jonathon Parks, NCOIC of 3/304th, Sandhurst competition.

NCOs’ provided support to West Point cadre in the external train up of international Cadets in preparation for Sandhurst and acted as graders during the competition.

“Our function is to train the teams on the Army standards in events such as the tactical casualty care, give them the ability to zero and familiarize themselves with a M4 and

Competitors representing a West Point navigate through obstacle course on day 2 of the 2018 Sandhurst Military Skills Competition at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, April 11, 2018. During Sandhurst, 62 teams representing 14 international military academies, four U.S. service academies and eight ROTC programs competed in 11 events throughout a 23-mile course. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Tynisha L. Daniel/released

M9 weapons system and learn how some of our obstacle courses work in a simulated environment,” said Parks.

“My role this week is to serve as the NCOIC, we began preparing for Sandhurst in November of last year (2017) and our focus is to train and take care of the competitors this year as subject matter experts,“ said Parks who has acted as the NCOIC

of the competition for four years.

Twenty-seven teams representing 14 allied international military academies, nine ROTC programs, and four U.S. service academies arrived five days prior to the competition to receive training by the experienced 3/304th Soldiers.

For four days, the Reserve Soldiers prepared competitors for the competition ahead.

“This is an international and national competition, all of the teams here are different but they are all given the same chances, same training and guidelines in order to fulfill their mission here and participate in the competition. ” explained Spec. Jonathon Dunton, 3/304th.

This year’s competition marks the 10th year that the 3/304th Soldiers

Staff Sgt. Douglas Hoefay, 98th Training Division (IET) provides training to competitors on how to properly apply a tourniquet The 2018 Sandhurst Military Skills Competition has begun, held at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, April 13, 2018. During Sandhurst, 27 teams representing 14 international military academies, four U.S. service academies and eight ROTC programs competed in 11 events throughout a 23-mile. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Tynisha L. Daniel/released

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 17

Day 1 of the 2018 Sandhurst Military Skills Competition has begun, held at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, April 13, 2018. During Sandhurst, 27 teams representing 14 international military academies, four U.S. service academies and eight ROTC programs competed in 11 events throughout a 23-mile course. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Tynisha L. Daniel/released

Competitors representing Chile work together to navigate through obstacle course on day 2 of the 2018 Sandhurst Military Skills Competition at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, April 11, 2018. During Sandhurst, 62 teams representing 14 international military academies, four U.S. service academies and eight ROTC programs competed in 11 events throughout a 23-mile course. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Tynisha L. Daniel/released

have supported the event.

The NCOs’ and enlisted Soldiers of the 3/304ths professionalism and leadership left such an impact on cadre and Cadets competing at West Point over the years, that in last year’s competition they were implored by West Point cadre to act as graders.

“The 3/304th is a training unit, to have the number of experienced instructors we have here is a huge benefit for us and the competitors.

Last year we merely assisted with the competition and this year our influence significantly increased,” said Parks.

For a second year, the Army Reserve Soldiers played an active role as graders during the competition. In 2017 only six Soldiers were graders.

“This year we have 46 Soldiers on the ground which is a testament to how useful we are to the Sandhurst Competition, 42 of the 55 graders on ground here are from 3/304th,” said Parks.

The 3/304ths knowledge and experience in the training of basic combat training (BCT) troops and cadets at West Point provides great exposure to the Army Reserve and its standards.

“We are able to provide training to these Cadets to meet military standards, the Cadets get to see what’s right from an enlisted perspective and they are ready to learn, but there are some challenges,” said Dunton.

“A lot of the countries have the ability to speak English pretty well, but for some there is a language barrier,” said Parks.

Although each international team was provided a Cadet attending

USMA to act as an interpreter for the 3/304th, class scheduling often times kept them away from the competitors.

This caused a language hurdle for the Soldiers but did not stop them from delivering instruction to the competitors who were determined to learn and do whatever it took to succeed in the competition.

“Yes we can, yes we do,” said a Polish Armed Forces Cadet, competing at Sandhurst.“We are very grateful for the opportunity to be here and are learning a lot.”

Acting as instructors and evaluators to Cadets was just one of the perks to being a part of the Sandhurst competition cadre. The event also served as a portion of their annual Extended Combat Training (ECT).

Sandhurst acts as a refresher to the Army Reserve Soldiers, preparing them for their visit to West Point during the summer where they train and mold future leaders attending the USMA. The opportunity to attend and play part in Sandhurst gives Soldiers a better understanding of how to train cadets and prepare the future of the military, it also provides additional training to international allies and strengthens relationships.

Since 1967 the Sandhurst competition has enhanced the professional development and military excellence in Soldier skills of today’s military and allies of tomorrow.

“It’s not so much about the competition being here, it’s about continuing to build friendship amongst our allies, we are building bonds and strengthening the Army as a team,” said Dunton.

18 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers: Always on the Trail

By Spc. Tynisha Daniel Soldiers from across the U.S. Army Reserve bring a unique set of skills to the Army; they not only serve their country but they also have a civilian lifestyle and occupations that mirror their military skills.

Military training of Army Reserve Soldiers is often received once a month on the weekend. However, these “Weekend Warriors” are always ready to respond to the call of duty.

Army Reserve Sgt 1st Class Brain Hazzard, Staff Sgt. Karlston Wilson and Staff Sgt. Randy Pittman, 98th Training Division (IET) are prime examples of Citizen Soldiers.

Each Soldier has served more than a decade in the Army Reserve and all have civilian jobs that correlate with their military occupational specialties (MOS).

As a combat medic (68W) with the 343rd Ground Ambulance Company, Hazzard used his military skill set to help land his job as a bio medical technician for General Electric.

“Because of my military training and experiences, I was able to get this position, a lot of what you learn as a 68W I use daily at my job,” said Hazzard.

While many Reserve Soldiers use training received for their MOS to find jobs in the civilian sector, the opposite is true as they use their civilian education to perform and excel in military ranks.

“The benefit of being a 68W is the biology and anatomy piece, understanding how the human body works. It has equated to some of the equipment I see and work on, I am able to have an intelligent conversations with medical providers because of my military training,“ said Hazzard.

Civilian experiences and education have been proven useful to the aid of Soldiers and their commands when using the Army Values and completing their duties in their MOS and/or special tasks.

Staff Sgt. Karlston Wilson, a Drill Sergeant with bravo company, 323rd Regiment, 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division uses his Soldier training and attention to detail on his civilian job daily.

When not on military duty,Wilson is a Conductor and Remote Control Operator for Norfolk Southern.

Norfolk Southern trains transport the nation’s goods to businesses and communities across a 19,500-mile rail network, passing through small towns, big cities, and everywhere inbetween.

No matter where Wilson travels one thing remains constant; his commitment to safety.

“I’m always on the trail, whether it be on the railroad or training basic combat Soldiers,” said Wilson.

As Drill sergeant or as conductor and remote control operator, attention to detail is critical to Wilson when properly doing his job.

Wilson often times maintains the transport of military sensitive items, hazardous and chemical materials and is responsible for the strenuous training and safety of Soldiers.

“As an conductor my job is to manage freight and cargo,” said Wilson.“I’m responsible for U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hazzard, 343rd Ground Ambulance Company, 98th everything that is behind the Training Division (IET) acts a grader during the combat life saving station during the 2018 engine, I operate in the capacity U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 11, 2018.

Drill sergeants and noncommissioned officers from the 98th Training Division (IET) assistof an engineer but with an remote ed with grading and support of the 2018 Best Warrior Competition. Photo by U.S. Army control device, similar to how drill Spc. Tynisha L. Daniel, 108th Training Command sergeants operate for the Army in molding civilians to become A railroad engineer must have a hours with little rest, keep the Soldiers.” strong sense of attention to detail train on schedule, and observe The similarities between for reporting problems with the and proactively follow safety engineers and drill sergeants are train’s condition, work tremendous procedures. vast.

As a drill sergeant, Wilson works long hours on a specific schedule, teaching new recruits every aspect of Basic Combat training to shape those civilians into the best Soldiers they can be.

Because the proper training of Soldiers is vital to the end strength of the Army, drill sergeants must provide strenuous training and follow proper safety procedures for the best outcome of a Soldier.

“As a Soldier, once you learn how to soldier and (you) depart basic training, those skills must become second nature,” Wilson explained.“As an Remote Control Operator and drill sergeant my skills have become second nature and my responsibilities are automatic.”

Wilson credits the Army Reserve for his ability to stay sharp in his civilian job and as a Drill Sergeant.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 19

Drill sergeants and noncommissioned officers from the 98th Training Division (IET) assisted with grading and support of the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 11, 2018. Photo by U.S. Army Reserve Courtesy photo/released

Another Citizen-Soldiers bringing an abundance of diverse talents, skills, and education to the Army and their civilian job is Staff Sgt. Randy Pittman, a wheeled vehicle mechanic (91B, instructor), 98th Training Division.

Like many Soldiers, Wilson does the same work on both sides because he enjoys the similarities between his civilian and military work.

As a civilian, Pittman works as a Diesel Mechanic for the Ready Command at Fort Jackson, South Caroline and incorporates his military/civilian education, skills, and experiences to benefit him in both careers.

“As a diesel mechanic we work on military vehicles and get them ready to be shipped in support

of other reserve units, this is very similar to my job as a 91B,” said Pittman.

Similar to his military career, as a civilian he handles the proper maintenance and repair of all tactical and some armored vehicles, both heavy and light.

Having a civilian job correlating to their MOS offers the opportunity to enrich a Soldier’s ability to contribute to the Army as a whole.

Citizen-Soldier is title that Army Reserve Soldiers wear proudly.

Although Army Reserve Soldiers have coined the term “Weekend Warrior” they have made themselves an important asset to the Army by applying their civilian careers to enhance their military service on a consistent basis.

Drill sergeants and noncommissioned officers from the 98th Training Division (IET) assisted with grading and support of the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 11, 2018. Photo by U.S. Army Reserve Courtesy photo/ released

20 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Forever Family

Although there are many reasons people choose to adopt a child, one of the most compelling can be simply because a parent believes that saving a child from growing up without the benefits of a supportive, loving family is reason enough.

Sgt. 1st Class Eric Schenck, Senior Religious Affairs NonCommissioned Officer at the 108th Training Command (Initial Entry Training), and his wife Adrienne have chosen adoption in expanding their family. A grounded and religious Army Reserve family of five, the Schencks have a deep love for children and feel they are answering the call to be a forever family to an orphan.

“Adoption has been on the table for my wife and I throughout our entire marriage. We both agreed and felt the call to be a forever family for an orphan,” said Schenck.

Well before the Schencks married, they agreed that at some point in their lives they would

expand their family through adoption. Having three biological children has not dimmed that desire.

Although the Schencks agree that in the past the timing wasn’t right, they feel now is the right

time for the season their family is in and as their youngest prepares to turn three, they are saying “yes!” to God and to adoption.

Facing the reality of how many children in the U.S. and around the world are transferred from foster

home to foster home waiting to be chosen by families to love and provide for them was enough for the young, caring couple.

According to the adoption statistics by the U.S. Department of State-Bureau of Consular Affairs, there is a disproportionate amount of adoptions compared to the number of foster children in the system.

A mere 4,714 adoptions were finalized in the United States in 2017 while over 100,000 children entered or reentered the foster care system during that time. For many, the high cost of adoption prevents them from giving their foster child the security of adoption.

“One of the greatest concerns for families is the high cost of adoption; in fact, it’s often cited as the main reason for preventing them from moving forward,” said Schenck.

“The cost to bring a child home can sometimes seem outrageous

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 21

and discouraging,” he continued.

Many challenges and difficulties may arise when attempting adoption but the Schencks agree that the burdens carried are worth the reward of a child in the end.

“I believe there is a spiritual warfare that uses obstacles like money to discourage and distract families from fulfilling their desire to adopt, however, there are many grants, fundraising opportunities, adoption tax credits and reimbursement programs that offset these costs,” said Schenck.

Proper research of these opportunities and discipline in spending and saving is key.

After much prayer and research, the Schencks partnered with Both Hands Foundation to begin to take steps toward their goal of adoption.

Both Hands, an organization that helps Christian adoptive families fundraise for their adoptions by serving orphans and widows, connects families with a team of volunteers and Both Hands coaches to assist in coordinating service projects to renovate widow’s homes.

The team sends letters to their contacts requesting sponsorship for their service day working on the widow’s home.

“It’s very similar to raising sponsorship for a 5K race or golf event, but instead of running or playing, we’re serving. All the money raised from sponsorships

goes to help an orphan be adopted into a forever family,” said Schenck.

Both Hands’ vision is to see the day when finances aren’t obstacles for Christian families who are led to adopt and to serve widows in need of home repairs.

The organization provides needed assistance to widows in areas that fail to get addressed because of the absence of a spouse while providing volunteers a sense of purpose.

“James 1:27 says,‘Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God means caring for orphans and widows in their distress.’ Both hands helps us do just that,” said Schenck.

Patricia Moore, a hard working widow and caretaker of her 7-year old grandson connected with the Schencks and Both Hands through their church’s involvement in the Backpack Buddies program where they provide school lunches for children in need.

“It has been such blessing what this family has done for me and my grandson, when my husband died a lot of the household fixes that he used to do fell on me, and I wasn’t able to do it myself” said Moore.

With the help of Both Hands, the Schencks and other volunteers, Moores’ house was renovated and refurbished in a matter of weeks.

All of the furniture, equipment, and paint were 100% donated, a total of over 1,500 dollars in materials for the project were given.

“We painted almost the entire interior of the house, installed new vinyl flooring in the kitchen, replaced some rotted siding panels and trim, and painted the entire exterior of the home,” Schenck enthused.

“We cleared the overgrown backyard so her grandson would have more room to play and organized and transformed both Patricia’s and her grandson’s rooms with all new bedroom furniture,” he concluded.

“I just feel so blessed and to know that by blessing me they (the Schencks) will be blessed with their adoption puts much joy in my heart,” said Moore.

Because of the Schencks and volunteers hard work, call to care and determination they have achieved their goal to begin the process adoption, the family has been placed in the position to fully fund and become a forever family to an orphan through domestic adoption in only six months.

Schenck is committed to the perspective needed for adoption, realizing that it is not about the choices the birthparents made,

nor is it simply the desire for the adoptive parents to find the right child for their home.

“The reality is that a child does not have a reliable, safe home with loving parents and I have room in my home and in my heart to provide that,“ he explained. ** For more information on the Both Hands organization and to see the work the Schencks and volunteers completed for Patricia Moore visit www.bothhands.org.

22 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

From the 95th Training Division (IET) Commander

By Brig. Gen. Andrew Bassford

Commanding, 95th Training Division (IET)

The 95th Division has a long and rich history. It is most famous for its role in World War II, where “The Iron Men of Metz” earned their nickname, defeating heavy German resistance to capture the fortress city of Metz as part of the Allied push into Germany in 1944. Subsequent fighting to secure crossings of the Saar River and helping to defeat the Ruhr Pocket and to capture Hamm and Dortmund, only added to the Division’s legacy.Those of us who serve in the Division today are honored and proud to follow in the footsteps of the Soldiers who fought so hard, and so successfully, in this effort.

We in the 95TH Division are very fortunate to have two organizations devoted to its Soldiers, veterans, families, and descendants.These two organizations are the 95th Infantry Division Association and the 95th Division Foundation. Each organization has a separate and distinct purpose, and each makes tremendous contributions to our Division.

The 95th Infantry Division Association was founded by our

Replica of the Fort Benning Iron Men of Metz monument that can be found inside the 95th Training Division Memorial Museum at the Division Headquarters in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. U.S. Army Photo by Capt. Adrienne Bryant

WWII Veterans in 1950 to maintain the links between the Division’s Soldiers and to promote fellowship.

The Association has an annual reunion at locations of historical interest to the Division and will celebrate its 69TH Reunion in Harrisburg and Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania in September.

Over a dozen of our WWII Soldiers still attend these reunions, joined by post-WWII retirees, their families and descendants.These reunions inspire us and celebrate their sacrifice, as we honor them and their departed comrades.

Following a reunion at Fort Sill, the Association will travel to France in 2019.

The Association continues to publish the Division Journal and maintains a website at

French Liaison Officer at Fort Leavenworth pictured with former Iron Men of Metz noncommissioned officers at the 68th reunion of the 95th Infantry Division Association in Kansas City, Missouri in September 2017. Photo by Marsha Flora

www.95divassociation.com.

Soon, there will be a Facebook page, which will to enhance its communications capabilities.

Soldiers and friends of all generations are encouraged to join.

This is your Association!

The 95th Division Foundation is devoted to preserving the Division’s legacy. It established and maintains the 95th Division Memorial (museum) here at Fort Sill. Our 95th Division Memorial is one of the most remarkable, quality divisional museums in our Army and certainly within the Army Reserve. When in the area, a visit to our Museum would be, unquestionably, time well spent.

It also has built and maintains monuments to the Division’s Soldiers, the most recent one on the ‘Walk of Honor’ at the National Infantry Museum at Ft. Benning. It

chronicles the entire history of the Division, including today’s 95’ers.

This is your Monument!

The Foundation also looks forward. For example, it has endowed a scholarship for postsecondary or vocational education for descendants of past or present 95th Division Soldiers. It is also a 501c.3 organization.

Together, these organizations support the Division.Their historical and present-day contributions can facilitate our training and our esprit-de-corps.

In addition to the Association website, you may contact these organizations, as follows: 95TH Infantry Division Association — P.O. Box 1113 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 95Th Division Foundation — 13919 Squaw Creek Road Fort Wayne, IN 46814

Final installation of the Iron Men of Metz monument at Fort Benning, Georgia. Photo by Ms. Lynn Weekley of Columbus Monument Company

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 23

Snowy 6 Mile Bug Line Trail Ruck It’s summer now, but snow was still on the ground in April when Bravo Company 1/334 (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) conducted another epic march during Battle Assembly.This year the Company rucked six miles on the historic Bug Line trail in Menomonee Falls.The Bug Line is a decommissioned rail line which once hauled limestone from two quarries to the main train line.

Today the Bug Line is a part of the Waukesha park system which uses it for running, bicycling and pet walking and Soldiers spent the morning sharing the trail with the local citizens.

Photos courtesy of SFC Randall J. Reinink

24 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

2-48th Dragoons Host Change of Command

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — The transition of power from one commander to another has been a tradition in the United States Army for 243 years.The Dragoons, 2nd Battalion, 48th Infantry Regiment are of no exception to this tradition.

On May 24, 2018, Army Reserve Lt. Col. John D. Watson, passed command of 2nd Battalion to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Shawn D. Sumter during ceremony at Gammon Field.

The Dragoon battalion, comprised of Drill Sergeants from the active Army component

and Army Reserve 95th Training Division, 108th Training Command, Initial Entry Training was reactivated in June 2017; its mission, to train Basic Combat Training Soldiers.

Now, almost a year later, the reorganized and dutiful battalion is

saying their goodbyes.

The ceremony was presided over by Col. D. Sean Crockett, commander, 3rd Chemical Brigade, who congratulated the formation on their success over the past year, showing appreciation for the hard work of the Soldiers, Leaders and

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 25 support of the family members. ”None of the missions success that 2-48th has realized today would be possible without the support of the 95th Training Division, and the firm steady leadership of Lt. Col. Watson and Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry Gonzales,” said Crockett during his speech.

Crockett continued to express his appreciation of the leadership continuity and abilities of Watson and Gonzales.

“Essentially building an airplane in flight, John and his team lead this organization with poise and grace during times of both adversity and success,” said Crockett.

Next, Watson approached the podium and reflected proudly upon the accomplishments of his Soldiers during his year in command, his appreciation of Command Sgt. Maj. Gonzales, and the teams and guidance that help with the success of the reorganization of 2-48th.

“I believe that the success that we have had here will resonate throughout both TRADOC and the Army Reserve as an example of what real partnership between the components looks like, ” said Watson.

Watson arrived at Fort Leonard Wood in May of 2017, where he helped USAR volunteers to build 2-48th and increase the end

strength of the Army between the Army components.

“I challenge anyone here on Fort Leonard Wood to show me where one component begins and another ends, we showed everyone that we are as real as anyone and that Reserve Soldiers can accomplish anything,” said Watson.

26 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

From the 98th Training Division (IET) Commander

By Brig. Gen. Miles Davis

Commanding, 98th Training Division (IET)

Over this last quarter, I have had the opportunity to visit four separate battalions (3-330IN, 1-321IN, 3-323IN, and Task Force Marshall) conducting training outside of their respective Reserve Centers (Ruck March, M203, M4, M9, etc,…) and want to pass along some of my observations:

1. Training Our ability to execute our missions, recruit viable Drill Sergeant Candidates, and retain Drill Sergeants (Combat Readiness) relies on our ability to effectively plan, execute, and assess

challenging, METL-based training OUTSIDE of our reserve centers. I expect battalions to conduct two FTXs a year, and I expect Soldiers to take care of their readiness outside of BA‎ so that we can conduct challenging METL-based training outside the Reserve Centers during BAs. Leaders will ensure that concurrent training will be planned and incorporated into all primary training events. During concurrent training, Soldiers will be continuously engaged in a focused and purposeful training activity that will concentrate on either repetition of past training to increase or maintain Soldier proficiency of a task, or preparation for upcoming training events. Units that conduct great training attract and retain great Soldiers! No great war story ever began with “When we were in the Reserve Center…”

2.Safety Leaders will effectively manage risk using the principles of Risk Management. Risk assessments will be completed and updated daily, at a minimum, and leadership will supervise to ensure that the risk mitigation measures emplaced are being executed to standard. Command Teams, I need you checking on safety every time to go to a training event. Leaders will cease training when they identify

Training

Safety unsafe activities. Risk management and safety training are vital elements of the Division’s overall safety program and every officer, NCO, and Soldier must understand the inherent risks in the training mission. Leaders will ensure that all personnel have completed the applicable initial and annual training requirements and integrate the following into their safety programs.

3. Discipline We need to ensure we maintain disciplined training in all areas, including uniforms, weapons, equipment, personal accountability— all Soldier aspects. Leaders must maintain accountability of Soldiers and equipment at all times. Ensure that your Soldiers are in the right uniform and have the appropriate equipment (i.e., if you are going to the range, do not shoot “slick”). Ensure that manuals,TSP, etc. are being reviewed and present during all training.This will enable leaders to address questions or concerns and ensure that training is being conducted to standard.As leaders, we need to convey the message that it is OK to reference the manual.Train as you fight and Train to standard!

events, at classroom instruction, at the ranges—wherever training is occurring, the Commander should be there.

Commanders are always with the main effort of any operation, and in the 98th Training Division, the main effort is the unit’s training event. Commanders observe, evaluate and assess training and leader development at all levels of the organization.They provide feedback as a coach, teacher, and mentor.The commander ensures the unit trains to standard, not to time. Commanders personally observe and evaluate training execution to the maximum extent possible. Only through personal observation of and participation in training, can commanders communicate to subordinate units and leaders the importance of training.

Commanders are the training managers for their commands and evaluate how leaders and Soldiers perform.

Commanders conduct realistic and accurate assessments of unit training based on personal observation and feedback from unit leaders and Soldiers.

While traveling around the Division, it was easy to see that our Iroquois Soldiers enjoyed being out of the Reserve Centers conducting challenging, METL-based training!

Knowing that, we have to push our Soldiers to take care of their readiness issues outside of BA‎.Then, we can use that time to conduct quality training outside the Reserve Centers.

Iroquois 6

4. Commanders My expectation of 98th Training Division Commanders, at all levels, is that they are the unit’s primary trainer. I expect Commanders to be at morning physical readiness training, at training

Commanders

Discipline

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 27

From the Command Sergeant Major

By Command Sgt. Maj. Ian L. Coyle

98th Training Command (IET)

I have been a proud Warrior of the 98th Iroquois Division since April 15, 2018. I have been given my priorities by the 108th Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Mark Mcqueen, and the 98th Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Miles Davis. I have moved out to execute my lines of efforts (LOE) that include the four pillars of Readiness: 1. Combat Readiness 2. Soldier Readiness 3. Family Readiness and 4. Safety Readiness.

As the CG and I circulate around the Division and engage individuals and units in the four pillars of readiness, we see the 98th Warriors making great strides in all areas.

However, the CG and I still need your help! We need you to ensure

you and your unit are combat ready and ready to deploy tonight! We need you to ensure that you, and your team, take care of not only your Soldiers, but the Soldiers’ and DA civilians’ families as well.

We need you to be a safe in all that you do and ensure those all around you are safe in all they do too. We need every single one of you to be a recruiter and to recruit Soldiers to be one of our Division’s Drill Sergeants. And we need you to ensure that your viable Drill Sergeant Candidates’ packets are started and put in for a class date at the Drill Sergeant Academy (DSA) as soon as they get to the unit. We need you to graduate three DSC per company per year. We need you to start identifying and training next year’s BWC, DSOY and SOY candidates.

General Davis and I expect nothing but the pursuit of excellence from you.And I have witnessed excellence in my daily travels with the Division. 1st BDE, 98th HQ Family Readiness group (FRG) Suzanne Freimuth, along with the Brigade and Division leadership, received an award for excellence from the Department of the Defense. Multiple Battalions within the Division have received the Department of the Army Safety Streamer. Soon, 3rd Brigade will have the Safety Steamer too, and the other two Brigades, and the Division, are on the verge of the only U.S.Army Reserve Division to receive the

The Four Pillars of Readiness 1. Combat Readiness 2. Soldier Readiness 3. Family Readiness 4. Safety Readines Safety Streamer.

As of 22 June, the Division has had numerous Drill Sergeants graduate on the commandant’s list and win the Iron Drill Sergeant award at the Drill Sergeant Academy for this fiscal year. Staff Sgt. Hopkins from 398th Regiment, 2nd Battalion (Armor), 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) represented the 98th as the NCO of the Year at the U.S.Army Reserve Command Best Warrior Competition, and even received an award for pistol marksmanship. This is just a

few areas, the 98th has breached the band of excellence.

Lastly, we need you to be fit— physically, mentally and spiritually— as you pursue and sustain combat readiness.We know you can achieve all that we expect of you. Be proactive and vigilant!

Communicate constantly and follow through to ensure results are achieved.

Warriors 1st, Warriors always ... Prepared to fight now!

28 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Army Reserve Soldier takes command of Infantry Basic Officer Leaders Course at Fort Benning

By Maj. Michelle Lunato 98th Training Division public affairs officer

FORT BENNING, Ga. — U.S. Army Reserve Capt. Andrew V. Burns, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), just accomplished something no Reserve Soldier has done in more than 30 years—he took command of an Active Duty Infantry Basic Officer Leaders Course (IBOLC).

The Soldiers of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment welcomed Burns as their incoming commander and bid farewell to their outgoing commander, U.S. Army Capt. Dan R. Apsley, during a Change of Command

Ceremony at Fort Benning on April 25.

After the passing of the colors, the battalion commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Zanella, explained just how much Apsley had done while in command.

“He’s contributed greatly to the success of the battalion accomplishing its mission to prepare its platoon leaders to fight, win and survive on the battlefields of tomorrow.”

Between restructuring a land navigation training map and essentially running 11 classes worth of platoon situation training lanes (STX) and urban operation lanes, Apsley made the Soldiers better prepared for their time outside of Bravo

U.S. Army Reserve Capt. Andrew V. Burns (left), 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), accepts the unit colors of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment, from the battalion commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Zanella, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia April 25. Burns, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, is the first Army Reserve Soldier in more than 30 years to take command of the active duty Infantry Officer Leaders Course. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

U.S. Army Reserve Capt. Andrew V. Burns (left), 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), holds the unit colors of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia April 25. Burns, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, is the first Army Reserve Soldier in more than 30 years to take command of the active duty Infantry Officer Leaders Course. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Company, according Zanella, a native of Memphis, Tennessee.

“Reaper Company ensured we produced infantry platoon leaders for the total Army,” explained the battalion commander.

The training Bravo Company puts their IBOLC students through is not easy. However, what we do here makes a difference, explained Zanella when he mentioned speaking to some of the recent IBOLC graduates.

“Their number one training event they say was the most valuable to them in passing

Ranger School was the platoon STX and Urban Ops ran by Reaper Company.”

With that, the battalion commander thanked Apsley, both the incoming and outgoing first sergeants, and welcomed Burns. “So Dan, to you and 1st Sgt. [Gonzalo] Melendez, and now, 1st Sgt. [Michael] Hanson, well done—keep up the pressure. To Andrew, you are just going to have to sustain.”

Zanella then told the Soldiers of Bravo Company that they were in good hands with Burns as their new commander. “He’s the right man, at the right time.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 29

rare occurrence….I am truly honored and humbled to be afforded this chance, and once again represent the U.S. Army Reserve in such an important position.”

To the Reserve Soldiers of the 98th Training Division (IET), Burns shared his appreciation for those fellow Iroquois Warriors who provided unending support since he joined their team in 2014.

However, the most heartfelt thanks went out to Burns’ mentor and friend, U.S Army Reserve Lt. Col. Kevin Fracassa, for his years of support. “You above all else, are the person most responsible for me standing on this stage today,” said Burns.

To the Soldiers of Bravo Company, Burns congratulated them for all their hard work and said he admired all that they accomplished together as a team. “To the men and women of Bravo Company, the reputation of this battalion

is second to none. This is a testament to the selfless service and the countless hours you spend perfecting your craft in the name of influencing and educating tomorrow’s combat leaders. You are truly the embodiment of the term, quiet professionals.”

The Army Reserve Soldier then looked out to the crowd and said he looked forward to the opportunity to serve the Soldiers and civilians of Bravo Company as their commander.

But before leaving the stage, he had one more person to thank, and that was the outgoing commander, Apsley, who mentioned just how much him and his troops enjoyed equating their tasks to the Game of Thrones.

With that idea in mind, Burns turned to Apsley to thank him for leaving him such a wonderful team to lead. “My friend, your watch has come to end. Reaper 6—signing in.”

U.S. Army Capt. Dan Apsley passes the unit colors of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment, for the last time to his commander, U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Zanella, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia April 25. Apsley, who is from Brooks, California moves on to his next assignment at the Intermediate Leaders Course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

He is no stranger to our program of instruction, and understands personally, the time, care and fitness required of our cadre to succeed in keeping White Phase our premier platoon leader foundation training event.”

With all the hard work and time spent at Bravo Company, Apsley said it was going to be hard to leave such a great team as he moves on to attend the Intermediate Leaders Course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

“If I have to leave, I’m glad to leave the Company in the hands of men whose perspective I trust,” said Apsley, who is a native of Brooks, California.

With Hanson at his side as first sergeant, Apsley said he has no doubts in turning over control, and that the Company will be taken further forward.

“This is the first time in my military career that I’m leaving

an element that I led in the hands of not one, but two leaders, who I have absolute faith and confidence in. So, thank you for that,” said the outgoing commander with sincerity.

Burns, who is a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, then took the stage as the new commander for Bravo Company.

First and foremost, he thanked his loved ones for all their years of commitment. “Your unwavering support and love is more than I truly deserve.”

Then Burns turned to Zanella, his new commander, and thanked him for the privilege and opportunity to serve the Soldiers of Bravo Company.

“This is not a responsibility I take lightly. And as an Army Reserve officer being selected to command at the Infantry School House, it is a

U.S. Army Reserve Capt. Andrew V. Burns (left), 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), stands before the unit colors of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia April 25. Burns, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, is the first Army Reserve Soldier in more than 30 years to take command of the active duty Infantry Officer Leaders Course. U.S. Army Reserve photo

by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

30 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

1BDE Family Day

Georgette Morgan, Family Readiness Support Assistant for the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), leads a horse during 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division’s Family Day May 6 at Warrior Outreach in Fortson, Georgia. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Sgt. 1st Class Paddee Muncy, a plans and operations Tour of Duty NCO, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET), speaks quietly to a horse at the 1st Brigade Family Day at Warrior Outreach in Fortson, Georgia June 6. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/ realeased

U.S. Army Reserve family members walk along a trail during the 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) Family Day May 6 at Warrior Outreach in Fortson, Georgia.

U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers and their family members from 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) enjoy a day of sun and fun at the Warrior Outreach in Fortson, Georgia May 6 for their unit Family Day. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Staff Sgt. Lannetta Pratt, a human resources NCO with 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET), watches family members ride horses during her unit’s Family Day May 6 at Warrior Outreach. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 31

The warrior within: Strong will fuels female Soldier toward new path

By Joe Lacdan Army News Service

(Editor’s Note: This is part two of a two-part series on Justine Bottorff.

For part 1, visit https://www.army.mil/ article/202048) FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. -— Staff Sgt. Justine Bottorff keeps a picture of a broken porcelain bowl on her phone.The text underneath reads “kintsukuroi,” or the Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold, effectively making the bowl more beautiful. Bottorff imagined the bowl as a metaphor for her life circumstances after returning from her deployments.

“You don’t stay broken because something bad happened to you,” Bottorff said.

Bottorff had survived a grueling deployment to Iraq during the height of the insurgency, serving as a well-respected combat medic.

But after leaving the Army and enrolling in undergraduate courses at the University of Buffalo, New York, she struggled with focusing and short-term memories. A neuropsychologist traced the change in her brain chemistry to her combat deployments.

Bottorff said she thought about leaving it all behind --- the classmates she couldn’t relate to, the lessons that left her frustrated, and her dashed dream of working as an emergency physician.

But even under the most difficult circumstances, she never backed away from her goals.

The porcelain bowl picture and competing on the university’s Division I women’s rowing team helped alleviate her stress in the classroom. Despite the difference in their worldly experiences, she began to grow closer with her rowing teammates, something she initially did not think possible.

Sleeping on an air mattress or an extra bunk, she shuffled her belongings from dorm room to dorm room, living with different rowing teammates, before she decided to move from her offcampus apartment into the undergraduate dorms.

She made friends with other veterans after founding a student veterans group at Buffalo. While she made strides in the classroom, she posted mostly “C” grades. She knew that wouldn’t be good enough for graduate study in medical school.

So instead she read about Buffalo’s nursing program. With nursing, her path to an undergraduate degree and working in emergency care would be quicker.

She had note takers help her retain class material. She used a special pen that helped track information. She lightened her

course load and her grades began to rise. During her junior year, she finally received orders to attend the Drill Sergeant Academy.

And finally on a cool May morning in Buffalo, with an American flag emblazoned on her graduation cap, she stepped to the podium and graduated with a degree in nursing. She reached a hurdle that once seemed a steep climb five years earlier.

“She’s incredibly intelligent, resilient, strong willed,” said friend Drew Murphy, who attended the ceremony.

BEST IN THE ARMY On a warm September afternoon in central Missouri, Bottorff enters a bright room at Fort Leonard Wood’s Thurman Hall, where a board of sergeants major wait to evaluate her as part of the 2017 Drill Sergeant of the Year competition.

Board members sit at a small table, ready to test and question each potential drill sergeant on how they would advise new Soldiers and how to improve basic training.

With her dark brown hair tied neatly in a military-style bun, Bottorff locks her elbows and stands at attention in her crisp, dark blue dress uniform.

The sergeants major sit behind a table as they faced three drill sergeant hopefuls. Each competing drill sergeant had to recite a familiar creed.

Bottorff begins,“I am an American Soldier ...“ She enunciates each line of the Soldier’s Creed concisely, as she would when dispensing clear instruction to new privates.

Seven drill sergeants made the finals. Bottorff is the only female drill instructor among them. Women joined the Army’s drill sergeant ranks in the 1970s, and though their numbers in the drill sergeant corps continue to rise, women remain heavily outnumbered by men.

To her right stands Staff Sgt. Sean Jolin, a decorated combat veteran who graduated from the Army’s Ranger and sniper schools. Chiseled and standing at a shade over six feet, he towers over Bottorff.

The duties of the Army’s drill sergeants pose unique challenges, such as sleep deprivation and long hours with recruits. A drill sergeant must also adapt to changing regulations. Female drill sergeants often must lead a company of mostly men.

Bottorff earned the respect of her peers with her knowledge of basic military skills, and her dedication to physical fitness.

She leads new recruits with stern

commands, but a keen sensitivity.

Bottorff doesn’t hold back when lecturing recruits about the realities of the operational Army.

“My little brother is in Afghanistan right now,” she’d tell them, in a cold, steely voice.“And you’re probably going to go to a unit that’s going to deploy.”

She’d ask recruits what they will do if their battle buddy falls asleep on duty. She’d tell them to be prepared if the Soldier next to them does something immoral.

Occasionally, when Bottorff’s scolding about the realities of the operational Army becomes too intense, new privates shed a few tears.

But Bottorff also possesses a compassion and a strong moral core. She doesn’t hesitate to tell another drill sergeant if they abuse their authority or if they are mistreating recruits. In the fall of 2016, when her unit put an ROTC program through summer drills, a cadet fell after injuring her leg. Upset, the cadet reacted emotionally, worried that she might fall behind the other cadets and get asked to leave the formation.

“She will go the extra mile for Soldiers and things that are morally correct,” said Bottorff’s drill supervisor, Sgt. 1st Class Candis Lopez.“Personally, she is very outspoken, and that does sometimes get her into trouble, but she doesn’t shy away from it. She is brave; she will stand up for what is right.”

Bottorff calmly pulled the fallen cadet aside, and assured her that she would return. Bottorff also treated the cadet’s injury, eventually allowing her to return to formation.

Lopez said Bottorff will often train in the field with her privates and perform PT exercises alongside them.

At Fort Leonard Wood, Bottorff traded her campaign hat -- the distinguished head gear drill sergeants use as the symbol of their authority -- for the traditional fatigue cap. At Fort Leonard Wood, she competed in similar events as basic-training privates.

As part of the 2017 Drill Sergeant of the Year competition, she tested her mettle in the field, she slogged through obstacle courses, she rucked through rocky, hilly terrain.

Competition planners shuffled in nervous basic training recruits to follow her in battle drill tests.

Bottorff struggled with some of the battle drills and physical training exercises. During one exercise drill on the contest’s second day, Bottorff hesitated, then realized she has forgotten the instructions.

Bottorff later wouldn’t make

Staff Sgt. Justine Bottorff

excuses for her performance.

Though she had breezed by in the earlier levels of the competition, first winning battalion and brigade level before earning the title of top drill sergeant in the 98th Training Division last spring, she admittedly didn’t have her best days at Fort Leonard Wood.

But reaching the finals as the lone female drill, Bottorff completed an unlikely journey. Her friends say when Bottorff promises to achieve something, she does it, at times stubbornly or clumsily, but she always sees things through.

“Over the years I’ve known guys that were in ‘Nam,” Luther said.

“Situations presented themselves and they shut down. I’ve never seen that in Justine.There’s a spirit in her that doesn’t quit.”

Bottorff said some symptoms from her injuries remain, but no longer have a hold on her life.

Friends also notice a difference.

Today her peers say they no longer see a trace of TBI symptoms.

Bottorff’s days are quiet now. As a civilian, she works as an emergency care nurse at Buffalo’s Sisters of Charity Hospital. As a Reservist, she takes periodic assignments as a drill sergeant for the 98th Training Division.

She reads about how brain neurons could possibly repair themselves.The staff sergeant also says she has considered returning to college to become a trauma nurse practitioner, where she could take on additional duties assisting an emergency care physician.

Assigned to the 98th Training Division, Bottorff eagerly awaits orders to once again lead and teach new Soldiers in the ways of the service and immerse herself in the culture of an Army that once left her troubled.

“I don’t think that someone like Drill Sergeant Bottorff is ever completely finished,” Lopez said.

“She’s always aiming for something.

Always, trying to achieve her (next) goal.”

32 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Challenge and Triumph By 1st Lt. Jonathon Geer Alpha Company, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET)

Fort Custer Training Center, Mich. – It has been said that with great challenge comes great triumph, and for U.S.Army Reserve Soldiers of the 3-330th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division, (Initial Entry Training), these words have never resonated truer.

As part of the 3-330th Infantry Regiment’s June Battle Assembly and Field Training Exercise, Soldiers had the opportunity to compete in the Battalion’s annual Best Warrior Competition. Participants in the event vied for a chance to go on and represent the Battalion in the Division Best Warrior Competition (BWC) being held in March of 2019.

In order to identify the Battalion’s toughest hero, each Company was asked to select their finest enlisted, noncommissioned officer, and drill sergeant to compete. Overall, 14 Soldiers answered the call to duty and stepped up to face the challenge in this year’s event.

In a battle of tenacity, grit and mental fortitude, the Battalion BWC activities spanned the course of two days and required every ounce of gall each participant could muster.

The grueling two-day event began on Friday, June 8 and finished late in the evening the following day.

Day one consisted of a competitive individual weapons qualification, an M9 engage and shoot event, an evaluate a casualty practical exam, and a military knowledge assessment written test.

Day two continued the grueling pace with the Army Physical Fitness Test, followed by an M203 qualification event.The day was

capped off by a five-mile road march immediately followed by an appearance board that tested the mental tenacity of the competitors.

On the final day, Battalion Command Sgt. Maj.Adam Coe finalized the points and crowned the champions.

Also on site for the weekend’s events were the division commanding general and command sergeant major, Brig. Gen. Miles Davis and Command Sgt. Maj. Ian Coyle. Both division leaders provided valuable insight and guidance, as well as a healthy dose of inspiration not only the competitors,

but the unit as a whole.

Additionally, the two leaders highlighted the weekend by demonstrating what it means to lead by example, joining the competitors in the road march.

“It’s really motivating to see your Division Commander and Command Sergeant Major grinding it out on the course like that,” said Sgt. Travis Johnson, an Alpha Company competitor who serves as a drill sergeant candidate.“It motivates me to push myself and be the best I can be,” continued the Adrian, Michigan, native when asked how it felt having

that kind of command presence out traversing the trail with them.

Other competitors seemed to concur and the takeaway attitude was one of great enthusiasm and vigor, with the Command Team handing out high fives and offering words of encouragement with every stride.

“It is important that we, as Soldiers, recognize it’s all about making ourselves the best we can be,” said Davis after completing the road march with the competitors.“You have to ask yourself, what can I do to make myself better? And when you do everything you can to make yourself

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 33

better, that’s what makes our units better, and that in turn, makes our Army Reserve better.”

Coyle also chimed in with some additional words of reassurance.“It is important that our Soldiers recognize that we want to be out here with them,” stated the division command sergeant major.“We want them to know that it is about standards and coming together as a team.We are the best division in the Army Reserve and it is a privilege to participate in an event that keeps us moving in that direction.”

In all, 25 Reserve Soldiers tackled the ruck march event, completing the course well under the Army’s standard allotted time for weight and distance.

Finishing the ruck in first place, with a time just over 58 minutes, was Spc. Joesph Ponitz, a drill sergeant from Bravo Company 3-330th.The Ostego, Michigan, native was greeted with high praise from fellow company members and command teams as he crossed the finish line. Ponitz grabbed some water and returned to the finish line, contributing to an atmosphere full of energy that greeted the rest of the competitors.

The final day brought Spc. Ronald Gallo, a Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania native and drill sergeant candidate with Bravo Company; Sgt. Colby Schaffer, a Urbana, Illinois, native and

a drill sergeant with Golf Company; and Sgt. Phillip Goodrich, a Athens, Michigan, native and drill sergeant with Foxtrot Company, all to the podium, each winning a spot, in their respective categories, to go forward and represent their battalion in the Brigade BWC. Goodrich was also recognized, and crowned as the overall competition winner, earning himself both a Division and Battalion command coin.

As the formation concluded, Lt. Col. Jim Allen, an East Lansing, Michigan native and the 3-330th Infantry Regiment battalion commander, offered a final few sage words.

“You need to remember, you are who the U.S.Army relies on today to keep our Nation, safe, sound and secure, and you have the unique responsibility of training America’s sons and daughters to rise up and become the next generation of warfighters.”

All in all, every member of the 3-330th Infantry Regiment walked away feeling reinvigorated as the weekend proved to be another training success.And as far as the saying goes, a great triumph truly does follow a great challenge… especially if you are a 3-330th Infantry Regiment Best Warrior Competitor.

34 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Honor, Integrity On and Off the Trail

By Maj. Michelle Lunato 98th Training Division Public Affairs Officer

When most people think of drill sergeants, they think of disciplined instructors, intimidating stares and squared-away, by-the-book Soldiers.

While these rigid images may all be true, it is only one side of the iconic job in today’s Army Reserve.

Drill sergeants in the Army Reserve have to be tough and disciplined to transform civilians into Soldiers in short periods of time. So the hard exterior is just a requirement of the mission.

However, there is a lot more behind those stern-faced Soldiers. For many drill sergeants, patriotic passion, personal drive and depth of character push them to excel in the demanding role that helps shape the Army of tomorrow.

Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Louis Rodriguez, a senior drill sergeant with Bravo Troop, 2nd Squadron (Cavalry One Station Unit Training), 415th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), signed up to become a Citizen-Soldier drill sergeant because of the events of September 11, 2001.

“I specifically came back into the military to become an Army Reserve drill sergeant,” said the Sacramento, California native who had served on active duty from 1987 to 1992. “I was in the recruiter’s office that same week… put me back in.”

But with nearly a 10-year break in service, Rodriguez could only join the Army Reserve as a private.

That meant he was ineligible to become a drill sergeant, at least until he earned the rank of a noncommissioned officer.That didn’t deter the former Private First Class, though. As a trained medical professional in his civilian capacity, Rodriguez decided to join a medical unit until he was eligible for the drill sergeant role he ultimately wanted.

Having served in Desert Storm, the Soldier said he knew the events of September 11th would “grow into something bigger,” and it was time to put the uniform on again, and do his part.

“I went back in because I wanted to teach somebody, anybody, or multiple people things to help them survive in a combat situation… I wanted to be able to instill something in Soldiers that would help give them that extra little thing.”

In 2005, Rodriguez achieved his goal when he donned the iconic Brown Round hat and became an Army Reserve drill sergeant. After several years of rotations on the trail training recruits, Rodriguez says he only has one afterthought.

“I didn’t realize how bad the hours would be…with just four hours of sleep a night at times,” he

U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Louis Rodriguez, a senior drill sergeant with the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) out of Sacramento California, watches over a Soldier on the Zero Range during the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort Bragg June 10. More than 35 Soldiers representing seven Geographic Commands and 22 Functional Commands, will spend the week competing in a variety of challenges including firing weapons, land navigation, the Army Physical Fitness Test, and various mystery events. These challenges will ultimately test their capabilities, combat-readiness, and lethality. The Army Reserve’s top Soldier and NCO of the Year and will compete against winners from the major Army commands in October at Fort A.P. Hill, Va. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/ Released

said with a laugh.

Regardless of the lack of sleep and long, hard hours, the CitizenSoldier has no serious regrets about the decision that altered the course of his life.

“Even now, I want to be able to have [the trainees] look back and say,‘Oh, Drill Sergeant Rodriguez taught me this, and now I can use it.’ It might be that one single time that it works, or multiple times, but for them to think back about what they learned and it helps them in their life…that means a lot.”

On the civilian side, the drill sergeant still serves the community as an MRI/CT technologist at the University of California Davis Medical Center. On the surface, the two different roles may not seem to go hand in hand. However, that’s not how Rodriguez looks at it though.

“The different roles balance me, I think. I’ve always enjoyed my customer service to patients.

I’ve been doing this for 30 years now, and still, I enjoy the feeling immensely. And as a drill sergeant, it’s the same way. It’s a rewarding feeling when you see a Soldier who you’ve trained from Zero Day to Graduation Day.To see the way that they’ve changed and become a better person—it’s just a great feeling.”

This passion and drive to help others is not just something Rodriguez feels on the trail or in

Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Louis Rodriguez, (right) a senior drill sergeant with Bravo Troop, 2nd Squadron (Cavalry One Station Unit Training), 415th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), stands by Army 1st Lt. Ronald Alan Plunkett, a former special forces medic and physician’s assistant who served with Team Delta, 3rd Group Special Forces, as his groomsman. In 2018, Rodriguez spread the ashes of his friend and veteran on a landing zone at Fort Bragg., North Carolina. U.S. Army Reserve Courtesy photo/release

the hospital. It’s something he does every day. Its just part of who he is, said Sgt. 1st Class Glenn Holmes, a fellow 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division drill sergeant.

“Rodriguez has always been a model of character. Not only does he make friends everywhere we go, he also helps everyone in need,” said Holmes referring to his mentor and friend of 10 years.

As Rodriguez is known for his exemplary conduct and character, it came as no huge surprise to his comrades that the drill sergeant would show up to the 2018 U.S. Army Reserve Command’s Best Warrior Competition (USARC BWC) with a personal side mission that, for people who don’t know him, may seem a bit odd.

Outside of testing the

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 35 competitors from seven Geographic Commands and 22 Functional Commands, Rodriguez’s personal mission at Fort Bragg, North Carolina is to spread the ashes of a fellow veteran and dear friend. While that alone is easy to understand, the odd part is that the ashes are of his wife’s ex husband, 1st Lt. Ronald Alan Plunkett, a former special forces medic and physician’s assistant who served with Team Delta, 3rd Group Special Forces, which is headquartered at Fort Bragg.

Rodriguez first met Plunkett as his stepson’s father. Over time, in the efforts of co-parenting, the two Soldiers began to realize they had a number of things in common, and naturally, like many Soldiers with shared experiences, they became friends.

“Ron and I went through Basic Training together in 1987 at the same place, at the same time, but didn’t know each other. We also served in combat during Desert Storm, in some of the same locations, but still hadn’t met,” explained the drill sergeant. “It wasn’t until 1997 that I met Ron, shortly after meeting my wife, Shannon. With the two of us being military AND medical, we always enjoyed each other’s sick sense of humor, and enjoyed many laughs over the past 19 years.”

While the close bond may seem unusual to some, it just worked, said Rodriguez. It worked so well in fact, that the two Soldiers became the best of friends.

“I didn’t really consider him just my wife’s ex husband, even though he was. I considered him my friend. He would introduce me as his husband-in-law,” reflected Rodriguez with a laugh.“It was funny—that was just the kind of relationship we had. We were friends.”

The ability to really see the value in others, and look past the surface, is just one shining example of how honorable Rodriguez is, said Holmes.“First of all, he was able to not only accept [Plunkett], and co-

parent with him, but he was able to become his friend.”

The years passed with countless laughs, good beers and serious discussions on medicine and military service. Rodriguez even stood by Plunkett’s side as a groomsman when he decided to remarry. As the Soldiers’ friendship deepened, their mutual respect grew as well.

“I always remember how intelligent he was. It just always blew my mind how smart he was,” said Rodriquez about Plunkett. “He was fluent in three languages…and all the stuff he knew about being a Soldier, it was just incredible to me.The stuff that he could just spit out, without having to reference a book…he was extremely knowledgeable—one of the most knowledgeable Soldiers I’ve met.

One of the most decorated Soldiers I’ve ever met. I’ve never met a Soldier with that many awards on their uniform.”

The respect went both ways too, explained the Army Reserve drill sergeant.“Ron [Plunkett] was rarely at a loss for words.

This was one of his attributes that I always appreciated. He would always speak his mind. He would frequently tell me how much he loved me as his friend, as a father to his/our son, Shayne, and for bringing so much happiness to Shannon. He would say,‘I couldn’t have asked for a better man to be a part of their lives.’”

With that level of closeness, it was just normal to discuss everything, said Rodriguez. So when Plunkett started having complications, including seizures, from his medications, the two Soldiers had some very real discussion about last wishes.

“He passed away two years ago, and one of his last wishes was to have some of his ashes spread on a drop zone [at Fort Bragg],” explained Rodriguez.“I never thought I’d be at Bragg. We never have missions that come to Bragg. So when [the USARC BWC] mission came up, I said,‘Put me on

1st Lt. Ronald Alan Plunkett, a former special forces medic and physician’s assistant who served with Team Delta, 3rd Group Special Forces, enjoys a beer with Army Reserve Sgt. 1st Class Louis Rodriguez, a senior drill sergeant with Bravo Troop, 2nd Squadron (Cavalry One Station Unit Training), 415th Regiment, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training). (U.S. Army Reserve Courtesy Photo/released)

that,’ and I brought his ashes with me.”

As a former Honor Guard Soldier, Rodriguez knows just how important memorials and last wishes are, not only for the deceased, but those left behind.

After performing countless ceremonies, Rodriguez said he feels obligated to respect and honor veterans who have passed, and provide some comfort to their families.

“I think it’s extremely important for people to know that there are people out there who care and are grateful for their family members who’ve passed away.That’s really important to me.”

Of course, coping with the emotion of a ceremony is difficult, but maintaining composure on the Honor Guard is a must, said Rodriguez.

“When we had to perform our duties, it was always hard. Every time. Because different things would play in my head from my experiences, then the looks on the families’ faces as we are doing taps, 21-gun salute, holding the flag, and I just learned to compartmentalize and put that part away and access it later because I am trying to do something honorable for that family, and I don’t want them to see me in that state.They are expecting me to be the professional.”

Now, even with years of drill

sergeant experience under his belt, composure will not be any less difficult when he spreads the ashes of a fellow veteran and friend.The spreading of ashes is not about closure though, said Rodriquez. It’s about respecting everything that Plunkett was and did.

“The things that he did as a Soldier, and a family friend, are just incredible. He was a great guy.To be able to do this for him as a last wish, is an honor for me…and it’s something I really want to do for him—just to respect his wishes.”

That sense of obligation to a veteran and friend makes this deed normal for Rodriguez, but his leaders and peers say its just one more example of how noble and honorable the Army Reserve drill sergeant is.

And from everyone’s reaction, Rodriguez says he’s realizing that what he thought was natural, might just stand out a bit.

“It’s funny. Every time I tell this story about what I am doing here, I get the same kind of reaction when I tell them it’s my wife’s ex husband. But they say,‘It’s really cool of you to do this,’” said Rodriguez about the task he considers an honor and obligation.

“I was just doing something to help my friend. But from the reaction I am getting from people, I guess it is something good.”

36 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Meaningful training enhances readiness at Fort Jackson

By Capt. William Perdue 1-321st Regiment (BCT/OSUT) and

Capt. Michael Mascari

F. Co., 1-321st Infantry Regiment (BCT/OSUT)

Despite the hot, humid temperatures, Soldiers covered in sand dust made last one charge to complete their latest intense mission. Working in teams and representing their individual companies, the Soldiers had one last push to attempt to reach their objective.

At stake:The coveted Commander’s Cup. But beyond the temporary glory and bragging rights, the ramifications are much greater.These Soldiers are responsible for training future force of the US Army, the US Army Reserve and the Army National Guard.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 321st Infantry Regiment, commanded

by Lt. Colonel Lisa C. Hendrick, participated in the annual Field Training Exercise (FTX) to hone their skill sets, to build comradery and to prepare them for their primary mission: leading recruits through Initial Entry Training.

The Battalion’s secondary mission is to recruit, create, and maintain Drill Sergeants for these summer missions at Fort Jackson.

The battalions six companies, located in North Carolina, come together twice per year to participate in the annual battalion field training exercise (FTX).

Soldiers from B. Co., 1-321st Infantry Regiment, celebrate victory in the competition to win the Commander’s Cup at Fort Jackson. B. Co., a Drill Sgt. candidate company based out of Cary, N.C. trains Soldiers to prepare them for the Drill Sergeant Academy. Upon graduation, the newly-minted Drill Sergeants return to the companies that recruited them. Photo by Capt. Michael Mascari, F. Co., 1-321st INF REGT.

This year’s FTX consisted of three graded events; Individual Weapons Qualification, Situational Training Exercise, and the Fit to Win Obstacle course.The battalion staff grades all of the events, and the company with the best overall score takes home the coveted Commander’s Cup. “The training we did this weekend is great, because it’s out

Drill Sergeant (Sgt.)Jessica Pate, and Drill Sergeant (Staff Sgt.) Crystal Gary evaluate a “casualty,” Drill Sergeant (Sgt.) Merlina Smith, during the STX lanes portion of the Battalion’s Commander’s Cup competition. The competition was part of an event designed to help Drill Sergeants maintain and hone the skills they teach during Basic Combat Training to Initial Entry Training Soldiers during summer missions at Fort Jackson. Photo by Capt.

Michael Mascari, F. Co., 1-321st INF REGT.

of the norm for what (Soldiers) normally get to do for training,” said Drill Sergeant Candidate Sgt. Nathan Harris, B. Co.“These are great events to compete in because this is what we are going to teach incoming Soldiers. It’s great to get the practice in when we can, and it’s fun, too.”

98th Training Division Commanding General, Brig. Gen.

Miles Davis, and outgoing 2nd Brigade Commander, Col. (P) Steve Iacovelli, visited the battalion during the qualification range to observe. For many, the range was part of the competition, but for new Drill Sergeants, the opportunity to run a range was also a great opportunity to lead.

The competition makes everyone better according to battalion

Sgt. 1st Class Derrick Powell, a Drill Sgt. with F. Co., 1-321st INF REGT, makes sight adjustments on an M-4 during a weapons qualification event, part of the Battalion’s Field Exercise Training competition. Photo by Staff Sgt. (Drill Sgt.) Crystal Gary, F. Co., 1-321st INF REGT

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 37

Drill Sergeant (Sgt.) Matthew Koppi, E. Co., 1-321st INF REGT, provides some pointers to Lt. Col. Lisa Hendrick, Battalion Commander, prior to her qualification round. E. Co. ran the weapons qualification range, an event in the Battalion’s Field Exercise Training competition. Photo

by Capt. Andy Gorrospe, E. Co., 1-321st INF REGT

executive officer Maj. Anthony Von Plinsky. He said having relevant training appeals to Soldiers because they don’t join the Army Reserve to sit around.

“We have this training not only to refine our skills, but to entice quality Soldiers to join our units,” said Von Plinsky.“One of the reasons Soldiers join the Army Reserve is that they like to challenge themselves outside of their civilian jobs. By doing complex training events, qualifying and competing against others, it allows them a vehicle to push

Drill Sergeant (Sgt) David Miller, E. Co, provides Brig. Gen. Miles Davis, 98th Training Division Commanding General, some M-9 coaching prior to firing during the weapons qualification portion of the 1st Battalion, 321st Infantry Regiment Field Training Exercise (FTX) on Fort Jackson. The FTX provided not only a platform for competition between companies, but a valuable opportunity for junior Drill Sergeants to gain training experience to prepare them for the trail. Photo by Capt. Andy Gorrospe, E. Co., 1-321st INF REGT.

themselves.”

The weekend served as a culminating event for the year prior and enhanced companies gearing up for their individual extended combat training events for the summer. It was also bittersweet for battalion Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Whitworth as he made his final appearance with Lt. Colonel Lisa C. Hendrick, Battalion Commander, to assist in presenting the Commander’s Cup. The Soldiers emerged from the wood-line as acting Command Sergeant Major, Master Sgt.Tony Ragmon, yelled “formation.” Soldiers formed up eager to hear the results of their hard work throughout the weekend. This year’s champion was Bravo Company, the Drill Sgt. Candidate Program, Cary, N.C., commanded by Capt Adam Price.

For Sgt. Harris, one of four candidates who will join Foxtrot.

Co., Lumberton, N.C. upon completion of the Drill Sergeant Academy, the victory was a thrill.

“It was awesome! We are a company made up of mostly candidates, and we were able to beat out experienced Drill Sergeants.The comradery, the teamwork, the attitude we put forth is something we will take forward.”

Capt. Jennifer Hernandez, Commander of Alpha. Co., Cary, N.C., was pleased with her company’s effort, despite her team falling short.

“The weekend was long but productive and served as a great opportunity to develop Soldier’s skills all while displaying Esprit de Corps,” Hernandez said.

38 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Change

of Responsibility 1BDE

1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) leaders stand ready for the Change of Responsibility Ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia June 23. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Leaders stand ready during a Change of Responsibility Ceremony for 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) at Fort Benning, Georgia June 23. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Command Sgt. Maj. Manuel Vergneperez, the outgoing brigade command sergeant major, passes the colors to his commander, Col. Timothy Pulley, for the last time during a Change of Responsibility Ceremony for 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) at Fort Benning, Georgia June 23. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Command Sgt. Paul Drago, the incoming brigade command sergeant major, passes the colors to Sgt. Maj. David Grantham, brigade operations sergeant major, during a Change of Responsibility Ceremony for 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) at Fort Benning, Georgia June 23.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 39

Change

2BDE of Command

Brigade and division leadership stand before U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Inital Entry Training), during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina May 6. -U.S. Army Reserve photo by Capt. Jason Cowles/released Col. Stephen Iacovelli, the outgoing commander, passes the brigade colors to the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) commanding general, Brig. Gen. Miles Davis, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina May 6. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Capt. Jason Cowles/released

Col. Ryan Nielsen stands before his troops after taking command of 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), during a Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina May 6. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Capt. Jason Cowles/released

Col. Stephen Iacovelli, the outgoing commander for 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), stands by as his staff and Soldiers present him with a token of appreciation before his Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina May 6. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Capt. Jason Cowles/released

Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) stand in formation during the Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina May 6. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Capt. Jason Cowles/released

40 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Change

of Command 3BDE

Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division, bid farewell to their commander, Col. Russell J. Bonaccorso Jr., and welcomed his successor, Col. Chris Chang, at a Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1.

Col. Chris Chang speaks to 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) Soldiers during his Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Col. Chris Chang passes the 3rd Brigade Colors to Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Gerald Linendoll at a Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Brig. Gen. Miles Davis, commanding general of the 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), speaks with his new 3rd Brigade commander, Col. Chris Chang, after a Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Col. Russell J. Bonaccorso Jr., the outgoing commander of 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), passes the brigade colors to the division commander, Brig. Gen. Miles Davis, during a Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

Col. Russell J. Bonaccorso Jr. of 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training) stands before his formation one last time just before his Change of Command Ceremony at Niagara Falls, New York June 1. U.S. Army Reserve photo by Maj. Michelle Lunato/released

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 41

From the 104th Training Division (LT) Commander

Good Change

By Brig. Gen. B.G. Edwards

Commanding, 104th Training Division (LT)

“Change,” is a word I’ve been contemplating for a few months.

Often times, when we think of change, it carries a negative connotation. However, change is part of life, something that we’ve all have experienced and something that is inevitable especially in any organization. For most, change is uncomfortable and may bring

disruption. However, I believe change is good and the manner in which we look at change is important.

At the 104th, change has been part of its history and change allowed and continues to allow us to make positive impacts in our Army. I recently had the privilege to write a letter to a World War II Timberwolf Veteran, and thank him for his service to our country.This gentleman’s service with the 555th AAA Battalion, contributed greatly to the success of the Timberwolf Division and played a significant role in the liberation of the concentration camp Nordhausen, the Battle of the Bulge, and other strategic operations during World War II. It was because of the many brave Soldiers like him that we can look back and reflect on the rich history of the 104th Division, the

United States Army, our Nation, and the reason we enjoy liberty and live in freedom today.

Today, the 104th is not structured as it was during World War II, nor does it have the same mission. However, it is strategically organized to build future leaders for the Total Army, who are prepared to win in a complex and thrive in chaos. The 104th has internally undergone change, we welcomed DCG COL Woods, G3 COL Dobbs, and other key leader movements within the organization.

This summer both 1st and 2nd brigade will undergo leadership changes; gaining two new Brigade Commanders, COL Hansen and COL Sanders respectively. Also, USACC

GOOD CHANGE continued on Page 44

42 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 43

US Army Reserve Photo By 372nd MPAD and 982nd ComCam

44 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Good Change Cont’d from page 41

will undergo a change of command between MG Hughes and BG Evans.

This will be an opportunity for the 104th to embrace, manage, and lead change at every level.

Change is a constant in the military.

Change is not something that will

go away but it is increasing in the rate of occurrences as technology matures and humans find more ways to manipulate it for war. We must be prepared. So, we have a choice. Do we avoid change and fail to grow as an organization or do we quickly adapt and move our organization to the next level? We will adapt and embrace the challenges to lead

change. Leading change will allow us transform the 104th training Division.

Leading change requires vision, compassion, and commitment.We must be proactive instead of reactive.

We will transform our organization to greatness and keep us on the leading edge – First in Training!

As we move on and look ahead, why the emphasis on change? Thought

it’s difficult to see change as good when going through it, change will allow us to be ready for the demands of our mission.This April I had the opportunity to visit the Sandhurst competition and see at first hand the Soldiers of the 104th leading change.

During the competition, 47 Soldiers of the 104th provided support to the USMA. In preparation for CST, the 104th has already stand up Task Force Wolf.This will be a demanding mission but one full of opportunities for success. It will also be necessary for us to identify the areas where we need change and lead change.This summer will be filled with many opportunities to lead change (UASCC CST/BCT, USMA R-Day, USMMA,Annual Training, etc.)

I invite you to join me in embracing, managing, and leading change. I also request you take advantage of the opportunity to explore and implement change that enables us to accomplish our mission in a more efficient and capable manner while embracing warrior ethos. But most of all, have fun doing it!

Timberwolf 06

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 45

Strengthening Ties, Strengthening Soldiers

By Master Sgt. Anthony Childs 104th Training Division

FT. MEADE, Md. — NCOs from the 2nd Battalion, 317th Regiment acted as instructors and supervisors for the 335th Signal Command Best Warrior Competition from April 1419.The Drill Sergeants from 2-317th included Sgt.1st Class Christopher Spencer, Sgt. 1st Class Gene Lilly, and Sergeant Leslie Wertz. Master Sgt. Anthony Childs also assisted as an advisor and supervisor for the event. Major events for the competition included the Army Physical Fitness Test, an obstacle course, land navigation, M4 rifle qualification, M9 pistol qualification, and a 10-mile ruck march.

The first event of the competition was the Army Physical Fitness Test.The push-up and situp events were conducted in the Gaffney Physical Fitness center with the Drill Sergeants serving as graders.

The next main event was the obstacle course.The course, maintained and overseen by the Marine Corps, was a tough test for the strength and endurance of the competitors. Marine Corps cadre demonstrated the course and several key techniques to rope climbing. After the demonstrations, the competitors were allowed to run through the course and practice the obstacles before the

competition.The competitors then ran the course head-to-head and competed for time. A medic and plenty of cadre were available to both cheer the competitors on and ensure their safety.

For land navigation, competitors were tasked with finding 3-5 points on a small course near the range complex on Ft. Meade. Weather and the swampy, wet terrain combined to make the course extra challenging for competitors.

Temperatures were in the low 40s and it rained on and off during the event.Throughout the event, the drill sergeants of 2-317 covered the course as roving safeties.

On range day, the competitors were first scheduled to test their abilities and show proficiency in grouping, zeroing, and qualifying with an M4. Despite some logistical issues, the cadre from the 2-317th made sure every competitor had a chance to complete their tasks.

Next, the competitors were tasked with firing their M4s while using

Nuclear Biological Chemical Protection masks. Afterwards, Drill Sergeant Lilly gave a very detailed, informational class on the M9 Beretta pistol to the competitors, many of whom had never used the weapon system before.

The last major event scheduled for the competition was a 10-mile ruck march which unfortunately needed to be shortened to approximately 10-kilometers after serious safety concerns due to high traffic volume became apparent.

Despite the challenges, Soldiers and cadre took care to avoid any serious incidents throughout the march.

Overall, despite obstacles and

setbacks, the competition was a complete success.The drill sergeants and senior NCOs from the 2-317th provided invaluable support and added valuable experience to the mission and helped ensure its completion in the most effective, safe way possible.

The mission strengthened the ties between 335th and 2-317th and showed the value of the ongoing partnership between the two organizations.

Live Fire Buddy

SSG Asay of the 3rd/304th IN REG, Bravo company, instructs the demonstration squad on safety procedures as the Beach Master for the buddy-team live fire range at West Point, NY on 19 May 2018.The 3/304th participated in validation of their lanes for their upcoming Extended Combat Training. Lanes include buddy-team live fire, hand grenades, and crew-served weapons.

This lane will be run at Cadet Basic

Training (CBT) and teaches West Point Cadets how to effectively maneuver in teams of two while practicing taking cover during such movements. Cadets will start off attempting to navigate the range using blank ammunition then move to simulation rounds while lane safeties determine if cadets possess the necessary skills or require additional training.

46 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Timberwolves Give Back to the Community This past 2017 winter they would look forward to season the members of participating in again. the 3-414th CST, 104th Truly, it was a service day Training Division (LT), took that none of them intend to it upon themselves to offer forget. Listed are the names of the community their time, the Soldiers that committed labor, and cheer. During the their time to the community: December Battle Assembly a Sgt.. 1st Class Buddy Croy, group of 20 Soldiers spurred Staff Sgt.. Anthony Palette, on by the dedication of Staff Staff Sgt. Raymond Pruitt, Sgt.. Yavan Harper volunteered Staff Sgt.. Michael Hernandez, at the Tacoma, Washington Staff Sgt.. Brad Thayer, Staff Rescue Mission (https://www.

Sgt.. Yavan Harper, Staff Sgt.. trm.org/).

Robert Corcoran, Staff Sgt..

Staff Sgt.. Harper has a Adam Lanier, Sgt. Travis long standing history of Goodwin, Sgt. Ruth Pizarro volunteering within the Quinones, Sgt. Simone Hilton, community and presented Sgt. Djinn Ferguson, Sgt. the idea to her fellow Lonnie Fueston, Sgt. Joseph Soldier’s and her Command Merritt, Sgt. Meri Rinehart, to incorporate the Army Sgt. Jake Brand, Sgt. Nicholas Values on a much more Shepherd, Sgt. Ivan Ramos, personal platform within Spec. Jarrick Rehn, Spec. their immediate community.

Casey Tankersly.

The idea was met with an In addition, to this day of outpouring of support. service many of the Soldiers Soldiers were volunteering that may not have been able with great sincerity and in to participate at the mission great numbers, but because donated clothing over the of the restraints of the facility months of November and the number of participants December to the Kiwanis was limited.

Cloth Bank in Renton, The burden of selection Washington. As a Company was determined by each Alpha Clothes and bedding donated by the 3-414th CST. Photos courtesy Staff Sgt.. Yavan Harper, 3-414th more than a hundred pounds CST, 104th Training Division (LT) Company Team NCOIC. So of clothing and bedding was on a cold winter day Soldier’s donated to be given to those ranging in rank from Specialist in need at NO cost. growth to overcome addiction. the most impoverished members to Sergeant First Class served Each of these programs were Within their many programs they of [the] community.” They meals, stacked boxes, cleaned developed

by Staff Sgt.. Yavan also offer vocational training. generally serve 1,200 meals per kitchen equipment, and prepped Harper, but could not have come These programs are designed day and hire trained cooks who food to serve the community at to fruition without the support for personal enrichment and often design their own menus, the Tacoma Rescue Mission. of her direct leadership, the recovery to help the homeless get ensuring quality and variety The Tacoma Rescue Mission Command, and the participation off the streets, while giving them in each meal. The network was established in 1912. It of the Soldiers of the 3-414th CST, a skill and a focus for their future. they have created within the regularly services the community 104th Training Division (LT).

The Tacoma Rescue Mission’s community guarantees a quality with three meals a day as well If you are interested in donating purpose outlined in their concise product from genuinely creative as offering church services, and your time and energy to a worthy mission statement is to,“Offer individuals. a drug rehabilitation program cause, check with your nearest God’s Help, Hope and Healing to Each Soldier participated which focuses on spiritual Installation Volunteer Corps office in serving approximately 200 to assist in your search to donate individuals and donated a your time.

If you do not live near minimum of four hours of his or a military installation, contact her time. Many of the Soldiers sat your unit Family Readiness Group and shared a meal with these men by emailing: usarmy.usarc.104-divand women. They exchanged inst-tng.mbx.family-readiness@ stories, smiles, and handshakes that conveyed sincere interest. All mail.mil, or register with www. myarmyonesource.com, click of the Soldiers that participated on volunteer tools and find spoke about the experience as opportunities near you! gratifying, humbling, and one

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 47

392nd Stays Sharp In April, Drill Sergeants and NCOs from the 2-317th Regiment supported annual weapons qualification ranges at Ft. Pickett, Virginia and Fort Meade, Maryland.

After a period of detailed coordination and mission planning, Soldiers from the 2-317th conducted their reconnaissance and rehearsals, detailing the necessary requirements for accomplishment of personnel transport, range supplies, weapons issue, ammunition handling and safe conduct for the range.

Their detailed and thorough preparation culminated in the successful execution of ranges in both locations.

The 2-317th cadre provided refresher courses for the M4 that included weapon assembly and disassembly, functions checks, firing positions, and other fundamentals, a task they will

repeat this summer during their primary mission: Cadet Summer Training.

Although both qualification sights boasted Soldiers from the 392nd ESB, Alpha Company, shooting at Ft. Pickett edged out their comrades with a 95 percent qualification rate while the HQ at Ft. Meade countered with 86 percent. A marked increase from previous qualification percentages, the assistance of the 2-317th and their professionalism and skill was greatly appreciated by the ESB leadership.

The 2-317th Regiment continues to build and develop relationships with other Reserve Commands and their subordinate units in order to support them in them in their efforts to be combat ready, which in turn allows the Regiment to keep their instructing skills honed and sharp for their summer training missions.

48 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

If it ain’t ‘rainin’

The soldiers of the B Co, 3-414th CST Battalion, 1st Brigade, 104th Division. Photo credit Cpt. Monica Lim

By Sgt. Daylin Bingham CAMP RILEA, Or. — Cadets from the University of Portland and Soldiers from B Co, 3-414th Cadet Summer Training (CST) Battalion, 1st Brigade, 104th Division came together at Camp Rilea, Oregon from April 1315, 2018, for a field training exercise (FTX).The three-day FTX provided an opportunity for both parties to complete weapons qualifications as well as affording the Cadets valuable training focusing on chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense, individual movement techniques (IMT), First Aid, and company level patrolling.

Additionally, Cadets and Soldiers alike were given an opportunity to test their Army-issued wet weather gear as an “atmospheric river” from the Pacific Ocean centered itself over Camp Rilea, drenching the Soldiers and Cadets for the first two days of the FTX. On Friday, NCOs from the 3-414th CST instructed and demonstrated to Cadets the proper way to handle and fire their M4 rifle before conducting zeroing and qualifications for the Cadets. For some of the Cadets present, it was their first time ever touching a rifle, adding an increased focus on the fundamentals of safety, proper handling and effective firing techniques. Concurrent training was conducted as Cadets left the firing line, including instruction in the basics of IMT, CBRN, and First Aid. The following day, instructors from the 3-414 observed and assessed Cadet-led squads and platoons through lanes designed to test the Cadets’ leadership skills and tactical movements.These lanes featured situations that the Cadets would face

Cadets from the University of Portland prepare to fire from the prone supported position during weapons qualification. Soldiers from B Co, 3-414th CST Battalion, 1st Brigade, 104th Division acted as range safeties and assisted the cadets on proper technique and safety rules. Photo credit Cpt. Monica Lim

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 49

including: reacting to contact, both direct and indirect, squad assault, and crossing a linear danger area (LDA).

The Cadets were armed with M4 rifles or M249 squad automatic weapons (SAW) and used blank simulation rounds to fire upon OPFOR who were role played by Soldiers of the 3-414th CST. Saturday evening the FTX culminated in a final battle,“The Assault on the Mount.”The objective, a town controlled by the OPFOR, was assaulted by the University of Portland Cadets who were able to combine all that they had learned into one final mission.The sound of gunfire filled the air and the rains came down with an intensity only matched by the battle it fell upon, as NCO and Cadet met with fire and fury, brass and gunpowder.When it was all said and done, there were many “dead” on both sides, but the mount was secured and everyone involved not only had fun, but also bettered themselves as people and as Soldiers, marking the end of an incredibly successful and effective FTX.

OPFOR from B Co, 3-414th CST Battalion, 1st Brigade, 104th Division prepare their equipment and strategy for their defense of the city on the mount which was the last objective for the Cadets to secure. Photo credit Cpt. Monica Lim

Answering the Call By 1LT David Homer

4-399th BN (CST) 104th Training Division- CST

FORT KNOX, Ky. — Tasked with hosting an annual Best Warrior Competition, the 4-399th Battalion set to establish obstacles and testing parameters for the competition held on March 23-24. Out of the dew of a cold, crisp Thursday morning would emerge four willing participants to answer the call. The purpose of the competition affords participants the opportunity to show others their technical proficiencies in Soldier tasks and further exude the Army Values for which they live to embody.

Four Soldiers volunteered from the region, Staff Sgt. Saije Antonelli, Staff Sgt William Benson, Spec Darren Odell, and Private 1st Class Brandon Kanarek hailing from the 3-304th, 4-399th, 1-398th, and 3-304th Battalions, respectively. Although all Soldiers possessed the ability to exceed standards, only one could be granted the title of winner.

Three dozen Soldiers of 4-399th supported the competition.

As in similar competitions, the Soldiers pushed themselves to their limits during a series of events including an Army Physical Fitness Test, Individual Weapons Qualification at George Blair M16 range, a 10K road march, disassemble/assemble/ function check machine gun, land navigation (day/night) and demonstrating their mental acuity before an appearance

From Left: Participants engage in the sit-up event of the APFT at 0530 23MAR18. Soldiers of the 4-399 converge on an intersection during the Day Land Navigation testing phase. SSG Antonelli and PFC Kanarek receive instruction regarding proper medical evaluation and treatment. An M249, M240, and M4 rifle are shown disassembled on a conference room table ready for reassembly and function check.

The four contestants ranging from PFC to SSG are all smiles as they await an audience of Senior NCOs for their appearance board. 4-399 S1 SFC Acevedo examines an award for Competition Winner SSG Antonelli as 1st BDE CSM Kaim congratulates the champion.

board in addition to submitting an essay. A round robin-oriented event tested combat lifesaving skills, consisting of three parts: evaluate and treat a casualty, plan and designate evacuation, and secure a perimeter. After all of these events, a victor was clearly visible.

Staff Sgt Antonelli proudly

represented the 3-304th emerging victorious in the competition, with the 4-399th’s own Staff Sgt. Benson as runnerup. A modest ceremony took place upstairs in the Fort Knox Kentucky Reserve Center, with the 1st Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. meeting the participants for the conclusion of the event.

All participants were presented a certificate of appreciation with Antonelli receiving an Army Achievement Medal for his accomplishment. All indication point to a continuing interest in hosting the competition, and 4-399th encourages more eligible participants to volunteer in future events..

50 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Camaraderie Through Training For their April 2018 Battle Assembly, 2-319th Cadet Summer Training Battalion, out of Salem, VA, conducted an FTX weekend.

The FTX was conducted from 6-8 April at Fort Pickett, VA where 140 motivated individuals honed their warrior skills.

The unit took advantage of the long weekend to conduct an abundance of training including mission related training, leader development tasks, and team building activities. The key events of the weekend were weapons qualification, preparatory training for the Battalion’s annual mission to support Cadet Summer Training, out brief of a Command Climate survey, and the weekend was

closed out with the Timberwolf Games.

Weapons qualification was performed Friday afternoon using paper targets. Although pop up targets are generally preferred, use of the paper target range did confer a certain benefit to the unit which allowed it to execute all of the key tasks planned in the 3 day weekend. Because M16 zeroing, M16 qualification and M9 qualification could all be completed at the same 25 meter range, all qualification was completed by dusk Friday evening leaving the remainder of the weekend to be used for other scheduled activities. The Nightfighters were able to qualify

over 115 Soldiers on the M-16 and M-9 weapons system.

The mission of 2-319th Cadet Summer Training Battalion is to provide annual support to Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, KY. For 2018, the Battalion has been tasked again to perform Land Navigation training. The unit took the opportunity, with both Companies present, for the assigned training teams to come together and initiate the working relationships they will further develop out in the field this summer. The experienced instructors took full advantage of the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the training material, and to pass on their knowledge to instructors new to the Battalion who will, in many cases, instruct Land Navigation for the first time this summer.

The weekend included

classroom training with the Battalion Commander’s vision briefing, an out brief of the command climate survey, NCO evaluation proficiency training, a quarterly safety class and an officer professional development class.

The commander’s vision and the out brief of the command climate survey were conducted by the Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Dye. Topics from the command climate survey included equal opportunity, esprit de corps within the unit and trust in leadership. During the commander’s vision brief, Dye touched on individual readiness, potential threats to our nation, and how our contribution fits into the national defense strategy. “The Command Climate Survey out brief is a crucial step in leadership because it lets the Soldiers know that the leaders have heard their concerns and will take action to

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 51

resolve them.” said Dye. NCOER proficiency training was led by the Battalion S1, Sgt. 1st Class Marshall, targeting an audience of raters, senior raters and reviewers. The objective of the training was to ensure NCO’s are evaluated fairly, all aspects of their performance are considered, and that completed NCOER’s are not returned for corrections. Areas of emphasis encompassed status codes meanings, navigation, and narrative types.

The weekend was full of challenges but it was also filled with some friendly competition between Alpha and Bravo companies. The Timberwolf Games were brought back for this FTX with Alpha Company as the reigning champs. The Timberwolf Games are competitions based

on Soldier common tasks and military skills. “The Games are a terrific team building opportunity that allows the Soldiers to build camaraderie by showcasing their skills and talents,” said Maj. Jake Wilson, Bn. executive officer.

The competition this year included weapons disassembly and assembly, land navigation practical exercise and ammo can carry.

Despite the cold wintry weather the competition was hot.This year the field increased by one with the entry of the Battalion Staff as a competitor. Heavy banter filled the air as the team members reached the table to start the weapons disassembly and assembly. All started as one but Bravo Company dominated as the team flew past Alpha and the BN. Next was the land navigation which was

guessing a known distance. Again, Bravo Company led the way. The final task was the ammo can relay.

Bravo Company swept the field

and left the others in the dust.

Although winning was for bragging rights only, all teams are looking forward to next year’s event.

52 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Col. Hansen takes command

COL Walker passes the Brigade Colors to BG Edwards as part of the change of command ceremony with COL Hansen and CSM Kaim, symbolizing COL Walker relinquishing command.

Photos by SFC Johanny Marte

By SSG Camille Kleparek and SSG Christopher Marro 1st Bde, 104th Training Division

Aurora, Co. — Col. Malcom Walker relinquished command of the 1st Brigade (PD), 104th Training Division (LT) to Col. Jens Hansen during a ceremony at Buckley AFB on May 19th. 1st Brigade consists of five battalions located across the United States and carries the responsibility of providing instructors and support to the Cadet Summer

Training at Fort Knox, Ky in partnership with the U.S. Cadet Command.

A farewell dinner conducted the night prior to the change of command ceremony allowed colleagues and guests to toast Col. Walker’s success and wish him a bright future in his next stage of career progression. His next assignment is as the Senior Service Advisor in the J35 of the United States Army Reserve Element – Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Among many

BG Edwards passes the Brigade Colors to COL Hansen as a symbol of COL Hansen taking command.

Leadership from the 1ST Brigade assembled for the leadership run.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 53

COL Hansen takes his seat at the head table during the dining out event next to MG Combs, CSM Kaim and CSM Trotter.

was planned and executed by 1st Brigade Soldiers, most notably 1st Sgt. Angela McKown and Command Sgt. Maj.Todd Kaim.

A dining out, also held at the Leadership Development Center in the evening following the change of command

allowed Soldiers and guests of the 1st Brigade to express their confidence in the future success of their new commander.

Col. Hansen comes to the brigade with a background as an Infantry officer as well as various command positions in Military Intelligence and the U.S. Special Operations Command.

Sgt. Monica Zavalza and 1st Sgt. Angela McKown coordinated the event which was punctuated by several traditional ceremonies as well as some creative games developed to keep the morale and esprit de corps high. Guest speaker for the event was Maj. Gen. Peggy C. Combs from NORTHCOM and Chief of Staff of NORAD. The celebratory weekend of ceremonies and tradition culminated with the leadership trail hike conducted the morning after the dining out at the Bluffs Regional Park. Attending the hike were battalion commanders and command sergeants major, led with the brigade colors by Master Sgt. Marcos Rivera-Flores and hosted by brigade Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj.Todd Kaim.

Formation of the leadership of the 5 Battalions in the 1st Brigade during the change of command ceremony.

wishes of success, Col. Walker was also given a commemorative Timberwolf plaque and Nightfighter tomahawk.

The change of command ceremony was conducted in the Leadership Development

Center on Buckley AFB, with the attendance of the Commanders and Sergeants Major of the five Battalions that fall under the 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division.

Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Edwards II oversaw the ceremony which

THE 108TH GRIFFON ASSOCIATION INVITES YOU TO THE

8th Annual Soldiers and Families GOLF TOURNAMENT Sept. 24, 2018 — Pine Island Country Club, Charlotte, NC The 108th Griffon Association is sponsoring the event and wants to invite you to participate or become a sponsor for this worthwhile endeavor.

Proceeds are to be used to: • Provide educational scholarships for Army Reserve Soldiers and members of their families • To promote family readiness and provide assistance to deployed Army Reserve Soldiers’ families • Provide assistance to Soldiers injured in action through existing charities The 108th Griffon Association is a North Carolina non-profit 501(C)(19)corporation made up of past and present members of the 108th Training Command, a two-star Army Reserve Command with headquarters in Charlotte, NC and subordinate units spread across the US, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

For more information on the tournament, or to be a sponsor, contact The Griffon and ask for Sherry Brooks at 866-761-1247.

54 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

4-413th (SROTC) Battalion Conducts Successful Readiness Training Exercise By 1st Lt. Jesse Dillon 4-413th (SROTC

FORT FISHER, NC — Over the course of five days in May, 28 Soldiers from the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion gathered at Fort Fisher, NC to conduct a regional Readiness Training Exercise. During the event, Soldiers completed annual training requirements in addition to extracurricular activities only afforded at historic sites such as Fort Fisher.

The 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion falls under the 1st Brigade, 104th Division (LT), and has Soldiers spread across the several states, the majority of them east of the Mississippi River. That diversity makes opportunities for the members of the team to meet face to face few and far in between but Fort Fisher was one of those rare occasions.

Arriving on ground on May 21, Soldiers met at the Fort Fisher National Guard Training Center, near Kure Beach, NC. Over the course of the next two days, they conducted what Soldiers commonly refer to as ‘annual training requirements’: a physical fitness test, personnel records review, and exercise weapon familiarization while utilizing the Engagement Skills Trainer, or EST 2000.

On Wednesday afternoon, everyone was able to take a break from Army tasks and explore the local 82nd Airborne Division Museum, Airborne & Special Operations Museum, and the battleship U.S.S. North Carolina.

On Thursday, the men and women of the battalion took

One of the many organizations that took part in the Readiness Training Exercise. Mr. Erwin and Mr. Albanese with the North Carolina Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve conducted a small briefing along with setting up a resource table at the National Guard Training Center.

part in a unit Staff Ride, or an in depth historical study, at Fort Fisher. A guided tour from Fort staff and provided a demonstration of musket drills and firing as well as time studying the former Civil War stronghold that had been a major contributor to the Southern ability to supply troops in battle.

With Soldiers of the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion only get the chance to meet and interact face-to-face a handful of times every year, the trip to Fort Smith was a perfect time to take advantage of training and recreation time and spend quality time with one another in and out of the Army green.

Members of the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion take a moment to stage a photo during the Civil War Staff Ride at Fort Fisher.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 55

Lt. Col. Reginald T. Eggleston Takes Command of the 4-413th (SROTC) By 1st Lt. Jesse Dillon 4-413th (SROTC

FORT KNOX, Ky. — On Saturday, June 9th Lt. Col. Reginald T. Eggleston officially took command of the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion.

During an intimate ceremony held in Palma Hall, Lt. Col. Eggleston and interim Commander Maj. Matthew E. Naparstek were joined by the 104th Division, 1st Brigade Commander Col. Jens Hansen.

Outgoing commander, Maj. Naparstek, kept his remarks brief, but acknowledging he had been surrounded by people fully supporting the unit’s mission which helped in achieving its goals. Lt. Col. Eggleston followed by expressing his anticipation of working with the unit, charging everyone with the mindset of optimism and ultimate success.

The 4-413th (SROTC)’s mission is to provide adjunct faculty to the many Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs across the United States, specifically schools east of the Mississippi River.This extends a challenge, being a unit that is not in any one particular spot. Although the headquarters team is located centrally at Fort Knox, KY, the vast majority of the 177 personnel reside across 27 states, covering over 91 colleges and universities.is to provide adjunct faculty to the many Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs across the United States, specifically schools east of the Mississippi River.This extends a challenge, being a unit that is not in any one particular spot. Although the headquarters team is located centrally at Fort Knox, KY, the vast majority of the 177 personnel reside across 27 states, covering over 91 colleges and universities.

Regional leaders and Battalion Staff welcomed Lt. Col. Eggleston to the unit.

Lt. Col. Eggleston accepts his new position as Commander of the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion.

After Maj. Matt Naparstek relinquished his command, Brigade Commander Col. Jens Hansen handed the battalion colors and control of the 4-413th (SROTC) Battalion to Lt. Col. Reginald Eggleston.

56 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

THE COMMAND Greetings from the 108th Training Command Inspector General (IG) office. Our Office is in the Command Headquarters located at 1330 Westover Rd., Charlotte, NC 28205. Your 108th IG team includes LTC(P) Jason Weaver (Command IG), LTC Serena Ravenell (Deputy Command IG), Mr. Derek Holmes, MAJ James Payne, MAJ Brian Vincent, MSG Gladys Alamolozada, and MSG Megan Upperman. You can contact us at 704-342-5141.

Here is the contact information

for the Division IGs. 104th TD Command IG is MAJ Stacey H. Rodriguez at 541-2058301.

98th TD Command IG is LTC Mark A. Smith at 706-626-3127.

95th TD Command IG is MAJ (P) John T. Bowman at 580-4423584.

Our mission is to be the eyes, ears, voice, and conscience of the Commanding General. Our core functions include Inspections, Assistance, Investigations, and Teach and Train. We advise and

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 57

assist Army leaders in maintaining Army Values, readiness, and effectiveness in the promotion of well-being, good order, and discipline.

The IG inspection is the primary IG function and the one that allows IG’s to have the greatest positive impact on readiness and war-fighting capabilities throughout the Army. The primary purpose of all IG inspections is to identify and resolve systemic issues throughout the Army, evaluate the effectiveness of Army policies, determine the root cause of non-compliance, and recommend changes to policy proponents. Once complete and approved for release all findings and recommendations will be published for the benefit of the Command. All IG inspection findings are non-attributable to individual units or individuals.

Last year, the 108th IG team was directed by MG McQueen to inspect the Drill Sergeant Program with a specific emphasis on identifying best practices and constraints in the recruitment, production, utilization, and retention of Drill Sergeants. Over the last few months, we have travelled all over the country inspecting various units within the 108th footprint. We have heard your praises, documented your frustrations, and have discovered ingenious ways that Soldiers accomplish missions under any circumstances.

Assistance is an IG function that provides Soldiers, family members, DA civilians, and retirees, the ability to seek help from the IG on matters affecting their health, welfare, and personal readiness. That means we are available to listen to you when you experience a problem that you cannot address on your own

or observe an allegation that needs to be addressed. However, before you bring your matter to the IG, remember these key points: • Be sure you have a problem, not just a peeve.

• G ive your chain of command

a chance to solve the problem.

• If IG assistance is needed, contact your local IG first.

• Be honest and don’t provide misleading information.

• Keep in mind that IG’s are not policy makers.

• Keep in mind that IG’s can only recommend, not order a resolution.

• Remember IG’s can only resolve a case on the basis of fact.

• Don’t expect instant action on your request…Be patient.

• Be prepared to take “No” for the answer.

Complaints can be filed by Soldiers, their family members, retirees, former Soldiers, or civilians working of the Department of the Army. When in doubt, contact us. We will direct you to the appropriate agency,

office, or person.

Investigations is the IG function that provides the commander or directing authority another means through which to resolve allegations of impropriety. Inspector Generals may investigate violations of policy, regulation, or law; mismanagement; unethical behavior; fraud; or misconduct.

While investigations are a core function, as IG’s, we’d much rather conduct Teaching and Training, or answer any policy or regulation questions as a means of preventing having to conduct investigations.

Teaching and training is the fourth of the Army IG system’s four functions and is traditionally embedded in the first three – inspections, assistance, and Continued on Next Page

58 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Cont’d from Previous Page investigations. While inspecting, assisting, and investigating, IG’s enhance the war-fighting and readiness capabilities of the Army by teaching and training commanders, Soldiers, and civilians at all levels on current Army policy and doctrine.

Additionally, IG’s pass on lessons learned and good ideas observed during other inspections, assistance visits, and teaching and training sessions.

With these four core functions, Inspector General’s work to

promote and enable stewardship, accountability, integrity, efficiency, good order and discipline to enhance total Army readiness. We exist to support the Command in making our Army ready to fight today and in the future.

Please feel free to contact your Division IGs or 108th Training Command IGs if we can help you in any way.

We thank each of you for your service to this great Nation, the Army, and the 108th Training Command.

“First Right, Then Forward”

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training

Article by: William Banks Recently, SFC Alexander Wellman (1-304), SFC Jeremy Anderson (1320), and SSG Shawn Thacker (1-320) completed the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, Train for Trainers (ASIST T4T) course developed by LivingWorks, Inc. The ASIST T4T course is 5 days of intensive Suicide Intervention training which qualifies graduates to give the two day Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) course to others. Since all three NCO’s had previously completed the Army’s Ask, Care, Escort Suicide Intervention Train the Trainer (ACE-SI T4T) course, they are now all certified Gatekeepers per AR 600-63, qualify for the Additional Skill Identifier of 1S, and, most importantly, stand ready to either provide Suicide Prevention training to their fellow Soldiers, or to assist Soldiers in need who may be struggling with suicidal ideations. What a superb display of caring leadership! Victory Team!

Deploy or Get Out Policy Unveiled Pentagon planners have released a sobering statistic: Up to 14% of the force is nondeployable. More than a third of that number can be linked to late medical and dental exams and missing immunizations.

The Secretary of Defense has directed that Service members who have been non-deployable for more than 12 consecutive months, for any reason, will be processed for administrative separation. Exceptions (waivers) will be processed at the Military Service headquarters level—for example, at the Department of the Army level.

Processing for separation must begin by October 1, 2018, and may begin immediately, at commander’s discretion.

The memorandum for all services that establishes the new DoD retention policy was released on February 14, 2018 can be found here https:// www.defense.gov/Portals/1/ Documents/pubs/DoD-UniversalRetention-Policy.PDF A formal DoD Instruction will

be forthcoming.

In the Army Reserve, each Soldier is required to complete a Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) and a dental assessment.

These provide commanders with essential information regarding the health and mission readiness of their units. The individual Soldier is personally responsible for remaining current in PHA and dental assessment, and current in immunization according to Department of Defense Instruction 6025.19 Individual Medical Readiness.

A Soldier is delinquent when the most recent assessment is more than 15 months out of date. Immunizations are considered out of date 30 days after scheduled due date.

Medical Readiness Classification 4 (MRC4) is assigned when a Soldier fails to complete their annual dental and health assessments as directed by AR 40-501.

To put teeth in the requirement to complete assessments on time, the Army

Reserve Policy for Medical Readiness Classification 4 (MRC4) dated July 21, 2017 states that TPU Soldiers who are delinquent in medical or dental assessment are not authorized to attend Battle Assembly or Annual Training until verification of current medical and dental assessments is provided. This puts the Soldier into the category Unsatisfactory Participant.

Having this status can put at jeopardy their participation in Servicemember’s Group Life Insurance (SGLI) as well as health and dental insurance for the whole Family, if the Family uses TRICARE or TRICARE Dental.

Soldiers attend mass medical and dental evaluations organized by their units during Battle Assembly or they may receive individual appointments for which they will be paid and receive retirement points.

These scheduled evaluations are very important and every effort should be made to attend.

Soldiers who are enrolled in the TRICARE Dental Program can receive a no cost dental exam from network dentists who will complete the dental exam form http://www.esd.whs.mil/ Portals/54/Documents/DD/ forms/dd/dd2813.pdf so the Soldier can return it to their unit. This form can also be used

by Soldiers who use other dental insurance when they receive exams.

The basic fairness principle in play is that Soldiers who are not medically ready to rapidly deploy put extra burden on those who do maintain their readiness. Individual medical readiness is an essential component of deployment capability. The nature of the business of Soldiering requires the ability to rapidly mobilize and deploy. The Army Reserve has special functions within the Total Force, things that the Active duty component must depend upon. Each individual is a part of the success of the mission and must be ready.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 59

Recruiting Initiative Six Army Reserve Drill Sergeants were recently selected from across the 108th Training Command (IET) to spearhead a nationwide Drill Sergeant recruiting initiative. These six Drill Sergeant will be traveling to Army installations across the United States to partner with the local Reserve Component Career Counselors (RCCC). In a combined effort with the RCCC, our Drill Sergeants will brief transitioning Active Component Soldiers on the benefits of becoming a Drill Sergeant in the Army Reserve.

Representing the 95th Training Division will be SFC Rondal Jackson and SFC Auston Connor. Together they will cover the following Active duty installations; Fort Hood, Fort Bliss, Joint Base San Antonio, Fort Sill, Fort Riley, and Fort Leavenworth.

Representing the 98th Training Division will be SFC Christopher Marshall and SGT Candice Beebe.

SFC Marshall will cover Fort

Drum, Fort Eustis, Fort Lee, Fort Belvoir, Fort Meade, and Fort Myer. SGT Beebe will cover Joint Base Lewis McCord, Fort Carson, Fort Irwin, and Fort Huachuca.

Representing the 104th Training Division will be SSG Sterling Johnson and SGT Micheala Bondy. Together they will cover Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Polk, Fort Rucker, Fort Benning, Fort Campbell, Fort Knox, Fort Bragg, Fort Jackson, Fort Stewart, and Hunter Army Airfield.

Bonus incentives, Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP), accelerated promotions, and diverse mobilization opportunities are just a few of the benefits that await those who are ready to accept the challenge.

Regardless of where live, the 108th Training Command (IET) has a home for you. Accept the challenge today and help mold the next generation of Soldiers.

60 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

8 ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT TH SEPT. 24 2018 TH

The 108th Griffon Association is living up to its original charter for its members with an active and engaging spring of 2018.

One of these functions is to hold an annual picnic for members of the 108th Griffon Association.

Current active soldiers in 108th Training Command units and their families can also attend with just a small fee for lunch.This past May 5, the association held its annual picnic at the Latta Plantation and Mecklenburg County Park about 10 miles north of Charlotte, North Carolina.A full day of socializing, eating barbeque and touring the plantation property made for a most pleasant outing.As a bonus, a World War II reenactment was held with American and German reenacting soldiers in full battle gear giving those present a different kind of gathering. Most interesting was after the battle, reenactors gave a full demonstration of the weapons used in that time period.The men enjoyed the military part while the women toured the grounds and buildings.

This time of the year also completes the application, judging, and awarding process for post secondary scholarships.This year there were eight applications from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Connecticut.All of the applicants were outstanding.A scholarship of $1,000 was awarded to the top three applicants and $800 to the remaining five for a total of $7,000.The awarding of scholarships is one of the primary

benefits to members of the entire command. Scholarships are open not only for college level academics but for trade and semi-professional positions, as well, and are open to all current members of the 108th Training Command and their dependents up to and including grandchildren. Scholarships are also available to any past soldiers and civilians of the 108th Training Command who have served honorably to include dependents, children, and grandchildren and are members of the Griffon Association.

If you or your dependants are eligible, you are encouraged to apply for a scholarship for the 2019-2020 academic year.Applications will be due 1 April 2019.You can find the application form at our website, www.108thgriffonassoc.com.

There are two other areas of Griffon Association support that have not been utilized recently.

The first is financial support to the Command in areas where appropriated funds cannot be used.

An example would be care packages or other support to deployed soldiers. In addition, awards for accomplishments (ie, plaque to list Soldiers of the Year over multiple years in a unit) is also another area where assistance can be provided.

A second area that has not been utilized in the last year is financial help to soldiers who have suffered a duty-related injury while performing military duties. For those who desire this type of assistance, normal family support channels should be used. Once we receive a request

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Scholarships Awarded

Erin Justice

Chad O’Donnell

Rachel Givens

through the proper channels and it falls within our established criteria, assistance can be provided with minimal delay.

Do not forget the Griffon Association’s annual golf tournament which this year will be on 24 September.You are encouraged to form a group or if that is not possible to contribute directly for this event.This is our main fund raiser for the year and is where the monies to provide scholarships, events, and other assistance are derived. Information is available in the Griffon newspaper or on our website.

All of the above is moot unless we have an active and participating membership.A tax-deductible contribution of only $10 per year or a lifetime membership contribution of $108 will go very far in keeping the 108th Griffon Association alive and well.As a bonus, the first 25 new applications will receive a 108th Griffon hat along with a 108th Griffon pen. Do not wait. Be one of the 25 proud wearers of the Griffon hat and pen which can be used to write generous contributions to the association.Visit the website for your application to join.

62 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Homeschool

How Technology is Making Homeschooling More Accessible Evolution of homeschooling Parents and students who want to opt for the alternate mode of learning need to know a good deal about the modern homeschooling before getting into it.

There is a common notion that only shy kids or parents with strong ideologies get into homeschooling. However, this is not true. Parents and students opt for homeschooling for various reasons. In fact, it can be said that the current bunch of homeschooled students are highly diverse. Not all of the kids are choosing a homeschool to avail the same benefit!

It has been noted that in 2012, 1.77 million students were homeschooled.This marked an 18 percent increase from 2007. Almost 25 percent of parents are of the opinion that they homeschool their children to give them a safe school environment. Nearly 19 percent of parents homeschool their children because of dissatisfaction with the education system.

Though often associated with religious education, homeschooling is not always religious.The

percentage of parents who say religion is their main reason to homeschool continues to drop.

Though many homeschooling materials come from religious sources, there are many secular materials available for homeschooling parents.

Some parents go for homeschooling because their kids have learning disabilities and weren’t performing well in public school. Some consider it because this form of alternate learning gives them the liberty to control their kids’ academic as well as personal growth. However, traditional homeschooling might become a burden if both the parents are working or if none of them is qualified to teach their kid.This is where the online form of schooling comes into the picture!

How Technology is Used in Homeschooling?

In the present times, technology is changing at a rapid rate.This is hugely affecting how we teach our students. It also impacts as to where and when students are taught.

Today, technology has been adapted to meet the needs of home-educated children in plenty of ways. In this digital era, it is not quite possible not to incorporate technology in the home educational realm. Most of the students see technology as more of a source of entertainment.But then, it is one of the main reasons that they take a genuine interest in their studies.

In order to use technology efficiently, it is important to understand the most effective tools in technology that can help the student learn.

One of the main reasons why technology is incorporated in homeschooling is that it accommodates students with specific learning needs or disabilities. In a traditional classroom setting, children can get left behind if they can’t learn like the majority.This is not quite the case in homeschooling or online schooling. Since technology is both accessible and flexible, there are tools and programs that cater to all types of learners.This is the most obvious reason why more

and more students are getting lured towards the various digital learning resources that are highly diverse.

Many Parents are Resorting to Online Schooling The truth is that the homeschooled population is becoming more diverse. It is because homeschooling supports all learning levels. It is also an outlet for overachievers who feel limited by their age and grade level. In the present times, more out-of-school academic resources are available for gifted learners.This makes it easier than ever to access advanced learning opportunities.

The online schools offer selfpaced, computer-based instruction through brief, pre-recorded multimedia lectures via web browser.Thus, students do not need to fit into a model meant for thousands. Parents have the liberty adjust models to match their child’s individual needs and talents. All of this individualized attention pays off.

It is a fact that technology takes

Homeschooling continued on Page 82

www.thegriffon108.com

Special Military Resources

Vacation & Travel Section

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TRAVEL USA 64 Dragons, Mermaid and Fairies, Oh My! 66 Apple Country Memories in Hendersonville 68 Billy Graham Library Brings Inspiration to Guests 69 Find Adventure in the Town of Mount Pleasant 70 Take Your Family Vacation to The Next Level at Universal Orlando Resort TM

73 Fall in Love (Again) on Alabama’s Gulf Coast 75 Reunite and Make Memories in Mesquite 76 What Can’t You Do in Llano?

77 Sevierville’s New Fall Driving Tour Has the Best View of All: Your Own!

78 Chattanooga: Civil War, Tennessee Whiskey and Music Galore!

80 Welcome Home Veterans Celebration

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Dragons, Mermaid and Fairies, Oh My! Carolina Renaissance Festival Celebrates 25 Years of Cheers The Carolina Renaissance Festival is back celebrating 25 years of cheers. Introduced in 1994, the Carolina Renaissance Festival is now one of the largest renaissance- themed events in the country and one of the largest attractions in the Carolinas. Nearly 200,000 attendees are expected to time travel to the village during its eight-weekend season, held Saturdays and Sundays, September 29 through November 18.

Fantasy and history collide once again as fanciful creatures have nestled into the forests of the Festival. Journey to the grotto and experience the all new Living Mermaid exhibit where Fairies of the Sea enchant, delight and swim about inside a 30,000 pound aquarium. Watch Fireflicker the Curious Dragon roam about to award dragon gold to children with magic in their hearts. And fan-favorite Twig the Fairy returns, dazzling patrons with her music and fairy-dust.

Fourteen stages offer an abundance of continuous music, dance, comedy and circus entertainments. Unbalanced

acrobats, the Ancient Art of Falconry and the popular jousting tournament with armored knights mounted on

horseback, are more examples of the continuous entertainment options offered. Many of the shows are spontaneous and you

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TRAVEL USA will never know what happens next, on stage or off.

Village purveyors offer an endless feast of bread bowl stews, premium meats on sticks, sweet treats and confections and a favorite of all renaissance wanderers: a bag of cinnamonroasted almonds! Festival pubs offer a variety of Pepsi products, craft beer, wine, champagne, ale, honey mead, lemonade and Medieval Margaritas to compliment the day-long feast of hearty foods fit for royalty!

Shop an extensive array of craft vendors offering home décor, jewelry, clothing of renaissance and medieval fashion, blown and torched glass, handmade art and pottery. There are also activities for children of all ages including peoplepowered amusement rides and countryside faire games such as the castle climbing wall, archery and tomato tossing at a fool.

The 25th Carolina Renaissance Festival — where imagination, fantasy, and history burst to life. A place where adults can feel and act like children while children are treated as royalty.

A magical realm where you will forget about your daily cares and enjoy the magic of a simpler time and place. A time traveling escape like no other!

WHEN YOU GO: Where: North of Charlotte between Concord and Huntersville. The Festival is located on Highway 73 at Poplar Tent Road (between I-77 and I-85).

When: Eight consecutive weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, from September 29th through November 18th. The Festival runs from 10:00 AM until 5:30 PM, rain or shine.

Advance Discount Tickets: $24 for adults, $14 for kids ages 5-12; available at Harris Teeter Stores region wide. Tickets purchased at the gate are $1 more, or print your own online at carolina. renfestinfo.com. Seniors ages 60 and over and Military personnel (with valid ID) enjoy discount tickets at the gate with adults at $22 and $12 for children ages 5 – 12. Children under 5

are always free. Parking is free courtesy of Harris Teeter.

Information: Online at carolina. renfestinfo.com, or call 704-8965544, toll free 877-896- 5544.

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TRAVEL USA

Apple Country Memories in Hendersonville

When you visit Hendersonville, North Carolina, an apple becomes much more than a tasty snack.

Apple season in this Blue Ridge Mountain town means walking through rows of apple trees in the middle of an orchard, picking fruit straight from the branch, taking in mountain views that stretch far beyond the farm and making memories as a family.

Henderson County is the largest apple producer in North Carolina and the seventh-largest producer

in the nation. In the past, orchards primarily sold to wholesale buyers, but today many orchards open to the public and allow visitors to pick their own apples.

The beginning of August signals the start of apple season.

Honeycrisp, gala and McIntosh are some of the first varieties to ripen.

Golden delicious, Jonagold and Granny Smith follow in September, while pink lady, Rome and Arkansas black take until October.

Just south of Hendersonville, Sky

Top Orchard grows 22 varieties of apples on 100 acres atop Mount McAlpine.The lofty location provides long-range views that create a beautiful backdrop for the sloping fields.The orchard is a popular spot for family photos.

Customers pull wagons and tote baskets, loading them with red, green and yellow apples. Kids hurry to the next tree, searching for just the right one to pick. Hayrides full of all ages cruise through the farm, and passengers admire the barnyard sheep, goats, turkeys and ducks.

Sky Top’s large fruit stand stocks prepicked apples for sell, as well as jams, jellies and fresh-pressed cider.

The made-while-you-watch apple cider doughnuts are a tradition that customers love.

Grandad’s Apples N’ Such also fries apple cider doughnuts in its onsite bakery. Customers grab a hot one and then snag a rocking

chair on the back porch that overlooks the peaks and valleys of the Blue Ridge. Other delicacies include apple turnovers, fried apple pies, caramel apples and apple dumplings.

Grandad’s, a fourth-generation farm, has greatly expanded its agritourism offerings. Visitors can pick apples, choose a pumpkin from the patch, ride a cow train, bounce on a jump pillow, get lost in a corn maze and see barnyard animals.

Sky Top and Grandad’s are two of 20 stops along the Crest of the Blue Ridge Orchard Trail.The selfguided trail allows visitors to pick from farms, markets and roadside stands to build their own applecountry itinerary. Free brochures are available at the Hendersonville Visitor Center or online at www.

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org.

The apple culture permeates

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downtown Hendersonville as well.

A stop at the Henderson County Curb Market reveals vendors selling fresh apples, apple butter, dried apples and other goods.The market has been in operation since 1924. All sellers are Henderson County residents, and all products are locally grown or handmade.

Specialty items include fresh cut flowers, hand-woven rugs, pen-andink drawings and all-natural soaps.

Another fun family activity is the Apple Quest scavenger hunt along Main Street. Created by a local Girl Scout troop, the search for bronze apples leads to interesting places and landmarks, such as the retro soda shop, history museum and general store. Brochures with clues are available at the Visitor Center. Hendersonville has one of the most welcoming Main Streets in the region with a curvilinear design and wide sidewalks.Trees and brick planters line the street, and fountains and public art dot

its name and several dishes. Sliced local apples show up on the cheese board and in salads, and apple-cidercured bacon completes the BLT and cheddar burger.The restaurant is located inside Cascades Mountain Resort.The locally owned hotel received a $4 million renovation in 2016. Improvements included several blocks. Downtown is full of installing a 110-foot indoor retail shops, galleries and boutiques, waterslide in the lobby pool area and home to 25 independent and outfitting the 100 guest rooms restaurants. Families particularly with new furnishings.The resort enjoy the Main Street gem mine, aquarium and pinball museum.

Hendersonville’s abundant orchards make the area a prime location for the growing hard cider market.Three cideries now operate in the county. Bold Rock Hard Cider, the largest craft cidery in the country, opened a production facility and taproom in rural Mills River, just west of Hendersonville, in October 2015. Visitors may tour the apple pressing barn and cidery on Saturdays and Sundays.

The taproom and cider garden maintain a family-friendly and dogfriendly atmosphere and often host concerts and events. Bold Bites, the cidery’s permanent food trailer, serves smoked meats and satisfying sides.

Old Orchard Tavern pays homage to the area’s apple heritage with

has quickly become a destination for families and large groups.

Booking a trip to Hendersonville apple country this fall is more than just another vacation. It’s an experience waiting to be shared with family and friends, and remembered long after the last apple is picked.

To plan your trip, go to www.

VisitHendersonvilleNC.org and request a free travel guide, or call 800-828-4244 for more information.

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Billy Graham Library Brings Inspiration to Guests On February 21, 2018, Rev. Billy Graham passed from this world into eternity.While his personal ministry was completed, his legacy of sharing the Gospel continues through the Billy Graham Library.

Reminiscent of Billy Graham’s upbringing on a dairy farm on the outskirts of Charlotte, the Billy Graham Library building is styled after a dairy barn, and his restored boyhood home is just a short walk from the main Library building.The entrance to the Library is in the shape of a cross, a visual reminder to visitors that it is only through the Cross of Christ that we can enter into a relationship with God. Built on the same property as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, right off of Billy Graham Parkway in Charlotte, N.C., the Library is organized around the themes of “The Man,”“The Message,”“The Ministry,” and “The Mission” with the message being predominant: the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Library houses an interactive tour, called The Journey of Faith, which focuses on what God did in the life of a young farm boy who grew up in rural North Carolina.

Graham committed his life to Jesus Christ at a local revival and became what many consider “America’s pastor” and evangelist to the world.

The tour begins and ends with

multimedia presentations, the first to lay a foundation for what guests will encounter in the exhibits and, at the end, another to consider the same evangelistic call Billy Graham has extended to millions of others in 185 countries.

“We are not lifting up or pointing to Billy Graham,” says son Franklin Graham.“We are pointing to the Lord Jesus Christ.”Throughout the tour, visitors hear the Gospel presented and have opportunity to respond to the message.

The Billy Graham Library is not a memorial, nor is it a museum.

The Billy Graham Library is a ministry, prayerfully planned with the intention of communicating the unchanging, life-giving message of Jesus Christ to hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who may never attend a Crusade.

Fall is a wonderful time of year at the Billy Graham Library as the beauty of the changing season can be seen on the grounds.Visitors have the opportunity to reflect in the memorial prayer garden, where Billy Graham, his late wife Ruth Bell Graham, gospel music legend George Beverly Shea, and longtime Billy Graham Crusade music director Cliff Barrows, are buried.

During their visit, guests can enjoy a delicious meal at the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar, which features

Mother Graham’s chicken salad, the “Billy Frank” hot dog, fresh salads, soups, specialty coffee, cookies and homemade pound cake. Ruth’s Attic bookstore offers a variety of Bibles, books authored by Graham family members, biographies, classic sermons on DVD, music, apparel and unique gifts.Active-duty service members with their military ID or in uniform receive a 10-percent discount on all purchases in both the bookstore and the dairy bar.

It’s not too soon to start making your holiday plans. Mark your calendar now for the annual Christmas at the Library Celebration.

The event, which runs from Nov. 29Dec. 22, has been voted a Top 100 Event in the U.S. seven times by the American Bus Association and draws more than 40,000 visitors each year from across the Southeast and around the world.Admission and parking are free.

Complete with a live Nativity, guests to the Library can also enjoy holiday favorites including horsedrawn carriage rides through one of Charlotte’s most beautiful light displays, the heartwarming sounds of caroling and festive music, story time for children of all ages,

holiday goodies, exclusive Library ornaments, and holiday shopping.

A special Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings is also offered (check www.billygrahamlibrary.org/ christmas-at-the-library for dates, times, and pricing).

More than 1.2 million people from around the world have visited the Library since its opening in 2007.After touring the galleries and exhibits, one visitor stated,“I appreciate how many times we were reminded this was about God and not Billy — although we appreciate everything he did and his work.”And another commented,“Love the heart and message that is echoed in the experience. It’s great to know that Jesus is at the center of it all.”

As Billy Graham once said,“It is now, and has always been about Jesus.”

The Billy Graham Library will endeavor to bring inspiration to its guests through the story of a man who used his God-given potential to bring God’s love, strength, hope and kindness to millions of people around the world.This enduring message of the Library will continue for generations to come.

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Find Adventure in the Town of Mount Pleasant

Whether you like to set back and relax with the sun on your shoulders or you prefer to work up a sweat, there’s something for everyone this summer in the Town of Mount Pleasant.

There’s no denying that Lowcountry summers are steamy, but when the heat index rises, Mount Pleasant comes alive.Whether you want to like to sit back and relax with the sun on your shoulders or you prefer to work up a sweat, there’s something for everyone this summer in the Town of Mount Pleasant.

When the weather is hot and hazy, the best way to spend a summer’s day in Mount Pleasant is often in the water. Paddleboard, kayak, or take a fishing charter, our scenery will provide a magnificent background for every pursuit.Watch for dolphins, admire views of historic downtown Charleston, and explore saltwater marshes while you breathe in sea air

and cool down.

Kayakers and paddleboarders can rent equipment at Nature Adventures (Shrimp Boat Lane) or Coastal Expeditions (514-B Mill Street).

Fishermen can charter a boat from Knot Stressed Charters (843-847-1614) or Shallow Thoughts (843-509-4751).

Not One for Athletic Pursuits?

There’s no shame in spending a summer afternoon at one of Mount Pleasant’s seaside restaurants.

Something about sun and salty air makes a cold beer or cocktail even more refreshing. Kick back with “Miss Paula Sangria” on the patio at Saltwater Cowboy (130 Mill Street), a citrusy mix of sauvignon blanc, blood orange puree, grapefruit bitters, lemon juice and mint Deep Eddy vodka, or a Papaya Mai Tai at Tavern & Table (100 Church Street) a boozy concoction of plantation three-star rum, hamilton demerara rum, papaya, lime, orgeat,

and orange curacao. Laze away a summer day and watch the sun set with a drink in hand.

When the sun starts to set and the temperature drops (slightly), it’s the perfect time to cut loose and dance the night away at one of Mount Pleasant’s summer concerts.The Shaggin’ on the Cooper, Cheers on the Pier, and the Friday Night Boogie concert series at the Mount Pleasant Pier (71 Harry M. Hallman Blvd.) feature live music, dancing, food, and drinks on summer nights.There are evenings for families and for adultsonly, for bluegrass and beach music fans, but they all have a few things

in common: warm breezes, beautiful scenery, and great music. Check out the full schedule from Charleston County Parks.

Looking to take home a bit of Mount Pleasant summer? Stop by the weekly Mount Pleasant Farmers Market (645 Coleman Blvd.) when the locally grown produce is at its brightest and most delicious.

In addition to the strawberries, blueberries, green beans, okra, and watermelons that are in season, the market features fish caught right off the shore, meat, and baked and canned goods. It’s the perfect place to a take a bite out of summer.

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Take Your Family Vacation to The Next Level at Universal Orlando Resort TM

Halloween Horror NightsTM

Family vacations aren’t just a time to escape the everyday routine and connect with loved ones. A family vacation should be an opportunity to enjoy sights and sounds and tastes you’ve never experienced before. From uniquely themed thrill rides to one-of-a-kind restaurants to spectacular hotels that put you within steps away from all the fun, Universal Orlando Resort™

is a family vacation that takes your family to new levels of excitement.

Three Amazing Theme Parks This summer at Universal Orlando™ you’ll find three amazing theme parks unlike anything else in Orlando.

Universal Studios Florida™ brings the biggest movies, television shows and popular entertainment

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts™ Castle (select nights)

to life on rides and attractions that put you in the middle of the action. Here you can buckle up for the all new Fast & Furious — Supercharged™ ride, meet the Minions from Despicable Me, join the battle with the TRANSFORMERS, and venture into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™.

Next door at Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ your family can enter the worlds of epic tales and legendary heroes, from SpiderMan to the jungles of Jurassic Park™ to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ - Hogsmeade™ where you can enjoy the spectacle of The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts™ Castle.

Plus, there’s the tropical paradise of Universal’s Volcano Bay™, a unique water theme park where thrills and relaxation flow in perfect harmony.

Universal CityWalkTM When the sun goes down visitors can head to Universal CityWalk™, the resort’s dazzling dining and entertainment complex where you’ll find an array of family-friendly restaurants and shops, as well as miniature golf, a 20-screen cineplex, and the world-renown Blue Man Group. It’s the perfect end to a day of theme park fun or an entertainment destination in itself.

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Artist conceptual rendering of Universal’s Aventura Hotel opening August 2018.

Artist conceptual rendering of Universal’s Aventura Hotel opening August 2018.

Jurassic Park™ Raptor Encounter

Stay In The Heart Of It All at The New Universal’s Aventura Hotel Open August 2018, Universal’s Aventura Hotel lets you and your family experience a fresh and fun way to stay - in a space that fits your style. The resort’s newest and most affordably priced onsite hotel is modern and smart yet vibrant and relaxed. Here you’re at home with open areas designed for sharing and gathering. You’ll find an expansive lobby including a Starbucks®; a market-style food hall offering breakfast, lunch and dinner; a striking pool area; and Universal Orlando’s only rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the surrounding theme parks and overall resort. Inside this sleek glass tower the whole family will enjoy conveniences like an iPad in every guest room and a unique VR game room. It’s a whole new way to enjoy Universal Orlando, with complimentary transportation to the parks that puts everything within easy reach.

Dare to Experience The World’s Premier Halloween Event The end of summer doesn’t mean the end of fun at Universal Orlando Resort. For many people, fun means being scared out of their wits. And there’s no better place for that than Halloween Horror Nights™, Universal Orlando’s award-winning special event that draws visitors from around the world. Every fall, the streets of Universal Studios Florida™ come alive with hordes of horrifying mutants, monsters and maniacs. Visitors can explore terrifying haunted houses, brave multiple creature-filled scare zones, enjoy outrageous live shows and experience many of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions. Nobody creates a more nightmarish Halloween event filled with truly original scares and authentic horror movie moments. This separately ticketed special event is not to be

missed — and not for the faint of heart.

WARNING. Event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for children under the age of 13. No costumes or masks allowed.

Make plans to take your next family vacation to a whole new level at Universal Orlando Resort™. Act now and you can get a Universal Orlando 4-Day Ticket* for the price of an Anytime Season 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket from your participating ITT/LTS Office.

Gryffindor™, Hufflepuff™, Ravenclaw™, Slytherin™, HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18) *This offer is not available for purchase at Universal Orlando theme park front gate ticket windows. Offer based on the purchase price of an Anytime Season 1-Day Park-to-Park ticket at Universal Orlando Front Gates. Ticket is only available for purchase at participating U.S. military base ITT/LTS ticket offices or the Shades of Green Resort in Orlando. Ticket must be purchased

by December 28, 2018 and must be used on or before December 31, 2018.

Any unused days shall be forfeited. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion or discount. Limit six (6) tickets per purchase. The 2-Park

4-Day Military Promotional Ticket is valid during regular theme park operating hours and entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida™ and Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ on the same day for any four (4) calendar days through December 31, 2018. The 3-Park 4-Day Military Promotional Ticket is valid during regular theme park operating hours and 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 for any four (4) calendar days through December 31, 2018. Both the 2-Park and 3-Park Tickets include four (4) days of admission to the paid entertainment venues of Universal CityWalk™ through December 31, 2018. Some CityWalk venues require 21 or older for admission. Ticket is not valid until activated at Universal Orlando theme park front gate ticket windows. Ticket specifically excludes admission to separately ticketed events at either of the theme parks

and CityWalk, AMC® Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX®, Blue Man Group, and Hollywood Drive-In Golf, discounts on food or merchandise, and parking. Ticket is non-transferable, non-refundable, must be used by the same person on all days, and may not be copied or resold. Additional restrictions may apply.

Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations is registered with the State of Florida as a seller of travel. Registration number ST-24215. © 2018 MARVEL. Jurassic Park TM Universal Studios/Amblin. © 2018 BMP. TRANSFORMERS and its logo and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © 2018 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. © 2018 DreamWorks LLC and Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. © 2018 Starbucks Coffee Company.

All rights reserved. Aventura Hotel TM & © 2018 UCF Hotel Venture IV. All rights reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2018 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

72 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

MAKE IT YOUR

realFUN

Beach

The REAL. FUN. BEACH. is the perfect place to rest, relax and make it yours.

Find special offers for military personnel at VisitPanamaCityBeach.com/Military.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 73

Fall in Love (Again) on Alabama’s Gulf Coast Stroll hand-in-hand along the sugar-white sand as you reconnect with your partner, and observe the vibrant colors of the sunset as it dances off the water. Fall is the perfect time to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach because of the abundance of activities and events, and the weather is perfect, too.

Flavors and Sounds of Fall

scrumptious crawfish and ice-cold craft beer, 70 musical acts and over 200 musicians at the Shindig in the Sand event September 29.

And you don’t want to miss all of the competition action, delicious food and world-renowned chefs at the 2018 World Food Championships at The Wharf November 9-11.

Sample more than 150 tantalizing Explore the Arts Whether you enjoy taking in the fine wines from around the beauty of art or if you are more world, sip and savor craft beer hands-on and enjoy creating your from regional breweries, taste a own masterpiece, the Alabama Gulf variety of distilled choices ranging Coast is your one-stop destination from infused vodka to single malt for arts and culture. View whiskey, and enjoy tastings and demonstrations on ceramics or try demos of delicious food by the your hand at the pottery wheel Gulf Coast’s top chefs at The Wharf at The Clay Studio. If you prefer Uncorked September 13-15.

Stroll the beach-side grounds and the beauty of glass,The Hot Shop listen to live music, admire beautiful has been Alabama’s premier hot glass blowing facility since 2009. arts and crafts, and enjoy great Or catch an exciting performance seafood favorites including crab at the South Baldwin Community cakes, conch fritters, lobster, and Theatre. Whether you choose to of course, cajun pistols at the 47th create your own works of art or Annual National Shrimp Festival watch someone make theirs, you’ll October 11-14. make lots of fun memories along At the Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Weekend November 2-3, the Gulf Coast. enjoy fresh, Gulf oysters and thirstquenching craft beers and cocktails, Adventures Galore You’ll find numerous adventures live music by some of your favorite at Gulf State Park which includes artists and even special treats prepared by local chefs.

Enjoy flip-flop fine dining of Gulf Coast continued on Page 74

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Gulf Coast

Cont’d from page 74

6,000 acres of pristine coastline and a wildlife refuge. Spy an alligator basking in the sun or a white-tailed deer grazing along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail which includes more than 27 miles of paved, scenic paths perfect for hiking and biking.To view and learn more about native plants and animals including snakes, owls, rabbits and more, visit the

TRAVEL USA nature center.The park also offers guided nature walks, beach walks, pier walks and other educational programs. Or grab your fishing rods to catch a whopper from the 900 acres of scenic freshwater lakes or from the second largest pier in the Gulf.

Prepare to gasp with wonder when you spot frolicking dolphins on a romantic sunset dolphin cruise. On your adventure, keep an eye out for alligators, deer and unique coastal birds while your

experienced crew tells you about the history of the area and other points of interest. Want to get your heart pounding? Check out highin-the-sky adventures such as the mighty Ferris wheel, parasailing, helicopter tours, flying your own gyroplane and traversing Alabama’s longest zipline.

Delve into History and Science Travel back in time when cannons protected the waterways, and explore the nearly 200-yearold Fort Morgan. Afterwards, ride the scenic ferry to Dauphin Island for a hands-on learning experience exploring coastal Alabama’s habitats at The Estuarium on Dauphin Island, the fourth largest estuary system in the United

States. Enjoy the educational and informative exhibit hall, the sting ray touch pool and the scenic, living marsh boardwalk while learning about the more than 100 local species of plants and animals on display. While in the area, stroll through 137 acres of the Audubon Bird Sanctuary consisting of forest, marsh and dune habitats that hosts 420 different species of native and migrating birds.

A Day of Bliss After all of the fun, you might need a day of shopping and relaxation. Some places to check out are SanRoc Cay, Pelican Place at Craft Farms,The Wharf,Tanger Outlet Center or one of the many eclectic boutiques around the area. So, shop until you drop, and then visit one of the many spas for a relaxing couples massage, manicure and pedicure.

Popular Fall Events in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach • Wharf Uncorked: September 13-15, 2018 • Shindig in the Sand: September 29, 2018 • 47th Annual National Shrimp Festival: October 11-14, 2018 • Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Weekend: November 2-3, 2018 • World Food Championships: November 9-11, 2018 To begin planning your romantic escape to paradise, visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach’s website at GulfShores.com.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 75

TRAVEL USA

Reunite and Make Memories in Mesquite Legendary Barbecue

Your service to our country takes you all around the world, granting you the opporturnity to make life-long friends and have unforgettable experiences.

Along with these opportunities comes constant change and adjustment, so it is natural to lose touch. Mesquite, Texas is the perfect place to reunite with old friends you met throughout your journey.

As the summer approaches, Mesquite is blossoming with fun activities and attractions for all ages. It is the perfect time to take advantage of our beautiful parks as a way to enjoy the sun, get active, and create memories.

Bring everyone together for family fun at the Westlake House.

Westlake Park Ideally situated on the pond at Westlake Park, this versatile facility can accommodate 80 people and has a gorgeous outside gazebo. As you explore the park, make sure to bring your gear and your competitive spirit for matches and games on one of the nine tennis courts and six basketball courts.

Red Barn Tradition and history have

shaped the Armed Forces. Dive deep into Mesquite’s past by hosting your next reunion at the Red Barn in Historic Mesquite.

This rustic barn offers a fun atmosphere to entertain family and friends as you explore Mesquite’s history with a tour of the Opal Lawrence Historical Park and the Florence Ranch Homestead. Take a guided tour of each historic home and hear the story of Stephen Decatur Lawrence, a founder of Mesquite Independent School District and a benefactor for the first school buildings in Mesquite.

Historic District Mesquite’s historic district is the perfect backdrop to reminisce on old times and participate in family games in an open field.

Lodging and dining options are an essential part of any vacation or reunion. We are proud to have three Marriott properties among our various lodging options throughout the City that offer government and military discounts, especially the Courtyard Marriott, that provides full dinner service and has a full bar.

Mesquite’s legendary barbecue is always the talk of Texas. Check it out for yourself at smokehouses such as Mesquite BBQ, which has been in business over 55 years, and Slab’s BBQ. To satisfy the sweet tooth of adults and children alike take the family to a local Mesquite gem, scrumbscious burgers and pieshakes.

Grab a delicious Pieshake. and be sure to ask for extra piecrust. If shakes are not enough or for special dietary needs stop by Hannah’s

Gluten Free Bakery for a variety of baked goods from cupcakes and cookies to their famous cinnamon rolls.

Join the Community A summer in Mesquite is full of plenty of community activities to fill your travel plans. Live music, food trucks, children’s activities, a mud volleyball tournament and more make our Summer Sizzle Festival a great time for all ages.

Be sure to arrive in time for the fireworks. Whether you are reuniting with old friends or just taking a break with the family, Mesquite is the place to make memories that will last a lifetime.

76 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

TRAVEL USA

What Can’t You Do in Llano?

Hunting Llano is nationally known as the “Deer Capital of Texas” and

hosts many hunters seeking the abundance of white-tailed deer in the fall and winter seasons.The Llano Chamber of Commerce hosts a Hunters’Welcome each Friday before deer season opens.

Fishing Year-round fishing in the picturesque Llano River and surrounding Highland Lakes makes Llano a sportsman’s dream destination. Usually the best time to fish the Llano River for bass is October and November when the fish are most active.The Guadalupe bass is only found in the Texas Hill Country and offers great sport for fly casters.

Camping Badu Park is located downtown along the north bank of the Llano River. Full RV hookups, extensive playground, and covered pavilions along with a spectacular view of the bridge makes Badu Park a favorite setting for locals and visitor alike. Robinson Park is located on West Hwy 152 just 2 miles west of downtown. RV hookups, tent camping, picnic tables, full playground, swimming pool, and large covered pavilion are all nestled under a canopy of oak trees. This is a great place to swim in the river or launch a canoe or kayak. Both of these parks are supervised by the

City of Llano. Call 325-247-4158 for information.

Kayaking and Canoeing Our Hill Country waters are inviting! The beautiful clear waters of the Llano River are perfect for kayaking or canoeing.Access is available at either city park.The Castell General Store rents water toys and is located about 17 miles west and upstream where fun is found at the General Store! Ask Randy or Karen for fishing advice and a great cabin on the water. A short 17-mile drive east of Llano is Lake Buchanan, the second largest of the Highland Lakes in Central Texas with a length of 30 miles and a width at the widest point of just under 5 miles. Lake Buchanan has a shoreline of 124 miles.The lake is very popular with boaters, fishermen, campers and swimmers.

Rock Hunting

Rockhounds from around the world descend on Llano throughout the year to hunt for the elusive “Lanite” or pan for gold in the Llano River. The Llano Uplift, an appropriately named area of Texas that features exposed rock formations is well-known for its variety of minerals and has been home to many quarries. Llano is also the home of Enchanted Rock a massive dome of solid granite famed in Indian legend and said to be a site of human sacrifice and healing.

Golfing The Llano River Golf & RV Resort is a challenging 18 hole course. Its natural beauty and wildlife, along the picturesque Llano River which provides a beautiful backdrop to your golf outing.The pro shop has a complete line of golf equipment and apparel.

Visit Llanochamber.org or llanolodging. com for additional information.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 77

TRAVEL USA

Sevierville’s New Fall Driving Tour Has the Best View of All: Your Own! Dine + Sip No fall trip is complete without some hot, southern comfort food.

Make a visit to Flapjack’s for their famous Sticky Bun Pancakes, then plan dinner at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. Located on a working apple orchard the restaurant serves up fresh apple fritters and nonalcoholic Applewood Julep with each meal. Favorite menu items include the fried chicken and the Chicken Pot Pie (which just happens to be the size of a whole pie) – delicious!

Sevierville’s distilleries are hotspots for seasonal cocktails. Stop in at Sevier Distilling Company, home of a 1,000 gallon still dubbed “The Colonel”, for flavorful cocktails at the bar.Then take home a bottle of your favorite handcrafted Sevierville spirit with names like Tennekeela, Ginessee, and Yenoh.

Stay

For a few glorious weeks, autumn crowns the Smoky Mountains with spectacular color. It’s a sight well worth traveling to see – especially when you take a few roads less traveled.This year, consider an alternative scenic drive with plenty of foliage along the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River in Sevierville, Tennessee.

Drive Peak season for leaf viewing is typically mid-October through midNovember. For those seeking a fall experience they’ve not enjoyed before, Sevierville’s two fall foliage self-driving tours offer little known points of interest and beautiful views. Sevierville’s Middle Prong Fall Driving Tour winds its way through the Smoky Mountain foothills after beginning at the iconic Dolly Parton statue in historic downtown Sevierville.Those driving the tour will enjoy stops at a Civil War battleground, swinging bridge views, stops at historic churches, and more.

Sevierville also offers its English Mountain Fall Driving Tour with stops at a historic cemetery, old grist mill, and a drive through a covered bridge.

Both tours can be found online at VisitSevierville.com/fall.

Experience Fall events stretch from September through October and provide even more opportunities to celebrate the harvest season in Sevierville. Plan a weekend at Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival (Sept. 13-17) enjoying great bluegrass concerts from up-and-

coming artists and living legends.That same weekend (Sept. 15), downtown Sevierville hosts is 3rd Annual Bruce Street Brewfest, an event celebrating regional craft breweries.The end of September is also the beginning of the season at Kyker Farms Korn Maze, a family-friendly attraction that also offers a more thrilling Zombie Blasterz experience (think shooting zombies with paintball guns while in a corn maze) on weekend nights.

Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Fall Homecoming (Oct. 5-7) brings today traditional craftsmen and artists at the old Andes house, now the Robert A. Tino art gallery, for three days of fun.

Car enthusiasts will love the Great Smoky Mountain Auto Fest event (Oct. 12-13) at Smokies Stadium.

Finally, have some Halloween fun with three great events including.

Who says only the kids can Trickor-Treat? Adults age 21 and older can buy tickets for the Rocky Top Chocolate Wine Trail (Oct. 27) and pair locally crafted wines with delicious candy at three wineries.

Then enjoy History & Haunts in downtown Sevierville that night (Oct. 27).This first-ever event will feature two haunted history tours with county historian Carroll McMahan.

There will also be a carved jack-olantern contest and a family-friendly Halloween dance party.Then on Halloween night (Oct. 31) head back downtown for the Sevier Co. Sheriff’s Office Halloween Spooktacular where children can Trunk-or-Treat with city and county services in a safe and friendly environment.

Fall leaves are the stars of the show – so why not surround yourself with them? Choose a beautifully appointed cabin with great views – but still only minutes from all the fun. Hidden Mountain Resort and Oak Haven Resort are both great fall lodging options whose offerings

include beautifully appointed log cabins with full kitchens, hot tubs, game rooms and more providing tremendous value for your stay. Find a complete list of Sevierville cabins at VisitSevierville.com.

Find other authentic accommodations closer to the action – including the newly renovated Lodge at Five Oaks on the Parkway directly across from Tanger Outlets Sevierville.The Lodge at Five Oaks honors the Ogle family whose farm stood on the property many years ago. Get to know the family and their legacy through beautifully designed shadowboxes and paintings located throughout the lobby.

Families with kids will find Sevierville’s two water park resorts a thrilling way to enjoy fall. Both Wilderness at the Smokies Water Park Resort and The Resort at Five Oaks offer indoor water park fun – perfect for chilly fall days.

Build your fall vacation around Sevierville’s driving tours and events.

Peak fall foliage can typically be enjoyed from mid-October through mid-November, but Harvest Fest is the whole season long. Discover more about places to stay, shop, eat, and play at VisitSevierville.com/fall.

TRAVEL USA

78 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Chattanooga: Civil War, Tennessee Whiskey and Music Galore!

Chattanooga is a gateway to Tennessee and is nestled along the banks of the beautiful Tennessee River and surrounded by the spectacular scenic beauty of Lookout Mountain and the Cumberland Plateau. You will enjoy a newly revitalized riverfront city, first class attractions, great Southern hospitality, rich Civil War history, outdoor adventures and locally owned restaurants & cafes, a thriving music scene with plenty of annual festivals and events that offer year-round fun.

We are located right off of Interstates I-24; I-59 and I-75.You can park your car downtown and check out the free Electric Shuttle or start your visit with a great sightseeing trolley tour with Gray Line’s Hop on Hop off starting at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Lobby. www.choochoo.com

History Buffs?

You will love our rich Civil War history. It’s explained in detail when you start your visit on Lookout Mountain at the Battles for Chattanooga Museum presentation taking you back to November 1863. www.battlesforchattanooga.com Don’t miss the 13’ x 30’ painting done by an eye-witness to the “Battle Above the Clouds” located in the National Park Service Visitors Center next door to the Battles Museum.

Then, stroll over to Point Park

Battlefield just across the street. The view of the river and downtown is not to be missed. (Small fee charged for Point Park for ages 16 and up) www.nps.gov/chch Speaking of historic Lookout Mountain, you’ll also find a few other things to do such as, riding the steepest Incline Railway in the world to checking out the new $20 million dollar renovation at Ruby Falls and then, going underground to see a 145’ waterfall. Take a break and have lunch at the Big Rock Grille or dine with a view at the

See Seven States Café then, enjoy a leisure walk through the awardwinning gardens at Rock City Gardens. www.lookoutmountain. com Next take a short drive down to the Chickamauga Battlefield in Fort Oglethorpe to see the movie presentation of “Death Knell of the Confederacy” at the Chickamauga NPS Visitor’s Center as well as the Fuller Gun Collection. Then, head out to tour the oldest and largest National Military Park in the USA. Many military leadership

classes have made the pilgrimage to the Chickamauga Chattanooga National Military Park to study the many generals and battles fought here during the Civil War.This first military park was established by Congress in 1889.

Outdoor Lover?

Then don’t miss our great outdoor adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing right in downtown.You are only a 15 minute drive to hiking trails, mountain biking or rock climbing indoors and out. www.outdoorchattanooga.com If you love MUSIC then check out our 9-Day Riverbend Music Festival for less than $65 for all nine nights each year in June. With over 100 acts on five stages you will love this award-winning festival.You will find this year’s scheduled acts at www.

RiverbendFestival.com .

Want something more intimate?

Check out the new Station Street Entertainment District next door

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 79

Belle Riverboat or splash down the next morning in a Chattanooga Duck, a WWII amphibious military vehicle or a Chattanooga Cycleboat for a fun river ride to remember.

We guarantee to provide you and your family with a vacation that you will talk about for years to

to the Choo Choo Complex. Start with a tour of the Songbirds Guitar Museum with one of the largest and most rare collections in the world then, check their schedule for concerts in the new Songbirds North or South Halls. https://events.songbirds.rocks/ You can even grab an artesian cocktail or local craft beer at STIR Restaurant,Terminal Brewhouse, or the Backstage Bar and walk “the district”.

Love to Dance?

Enjoy line-dancing at Westbound Bar or hang out at Regan’s Place

dancing the night away to 80’s and 90’s music. Interested in TN Whiskey? Just walk across the street and take a tour & tasting at Chattanooga Whiskey Company’s distillery. Last tour at 8:00pm.

Don’t Miss ...

Here are a few other great things not to miss: the Tennessee Aquarium, the world’s largest fresh-water aquarium and IMAX 3D theater; enjoy an evening at a Chattanooga Lookouts AA baseball game on Hawk Hill downtown or a late Chattanooga Ghost Tour. Or take a dinner cruise on the Southern

come. Whatever thrills you – we think you will find it in Chattanooga Tennessee. Come see this place we call home – Chattanooga!

For more information check our website at www.ChattanoogaFun.com or email Shelda Spencer Rees at ssrees@ chattanoogacvb.com

TRAVEL USA

80 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

Welcome Home Veterans Celebration Clarksville, Tennessee is a community that appreciates veterans. The city borders the Fort Campbell Army Post, so appreciating military service is simply the way of life for both residents and businesses. Beyond the ingrained respect that happens daily, this community publicly shows its support annually–in a big way–with a five-day Welcome Home Veterans Celebration.

In 2018, Clarksville will host its fourth annual Welcome Home Veterans Celebration September 12-16. Multiple activities will take place to celebrate and honor veterans, with an emphasis on Vietnam veterans.

“The Clarksville-Montgomery County community recognizes and honors veterans all year long,” said Visit Clarksville Chairman Tom Kane.“But, this event is a special opportunity to come together and collectively show our support and appreciation for veterans in meaningful ways. We hope that everyone will participate and express their gratitude to our servicemen and women.”

Activities Remembering Our Fallen. This photographic exhibit is designed to remind Americans of the ultimate sacrifice made by those who died from wounds suffered in Iraq and Afghanistan while wearing our country’s uniform since 9/11/2001. The memorial includes 30 Tribute Towers, which were unveiled nationally at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, September 7, 2017.

American Traveling Tribute Wall at Beachaven Vineyards and Winery. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute (AVTT) presents the Traveling Wall, an 80 percent scale version of the Vietnam

Memorial Wall in Washington, DC. Across its 360-foot length, the wall contains the names of every name that is etched on the original monument. At its apex, the memorial is an impressive eight feet tall.

Field of Honor — Veterans Tribute flag display is part of a nationally recognized community program that pays tribute to the strength and unity of Americans and honors veterans who served our nation to preserve our security and freedoms.

A Hero Breakfast on Thursday, September 13 will pair JROTC cadets, veterans, and active duty soldiers. This event is free for veterans, but reservations are required.

A Wreath Laying and Massing of the Colors will take place at the

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018 • 81

New in 2018: Lee Greenwood, Remembering our Fallen, Hero Breakfast, and Valor Run

Lee Greenwood will be performing a free concert at Beachaven Winery on Saturday, September 15 at 7:00pm.

AARP members can receive an 18 percent discount on all ticketed events with the code

Wall on Thursday, September 13.

A Remembrance Ceremony is a free public ceremony the evening of September 13 that includes music, speakers and a time of remembrance.

A Valor Luncheon will be held on Friday, September 14 with keynote speaker Edgar Harrell, one of two remaining Marines from the USS Indianapolis that was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1945.

The Valor Run Half Marathon and 5K will be held Saturday

morning, September 15, beginning and ending at Beachaven Winery. See details or register at valorrunclarksville.wordpress. com/.

Welcome Home Parade is Saturday, September 15 at 10:00a.m. in historic downtown Clarksville. Veterans should register to participate in the parade at www. welcomehomeveteranscelebration. com. Applications are also available for floats and other parade participants.

WELCOME50.

For more details, contact Frances Manzitto at frances@ visitclarksvilletn.com or 931-2454345, or register online at www. welcomehomeveteranscelebration.com.

82 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2018

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Homeschooling Cont’d from page 62

the pressure off of parents. One of the main objections that parents raise about homeschooling is their own qualifications.

Today online schooling is a feasible option for many.This is all because of the advent of technology. It lets parents tap into online resources when they reach subjects they are unsure of.

Students are also able to reach out to digital tutors for help when they get stuck.

There are many creators of education materials for homeschoolers who know who is going to do most of the

supervising and teaching. Most of the online learning materials have been designed with the parents in mind.Thus, they can follow along and understand what their kids are learning. Most of these materials come with step by step instructions. So, it gets easier for parents and students to follow and make best use of these smart virtual resources.

How Can Online Schooling Benefit Military Families?

On an average, the child in a military family moves six to nine times during their school years.

This requires the child to change numerous schools. It is difficult to adjust to new teachers, new classmates, and new curriculum. It often leads to anxiety and multiple

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challenges.This disrupts the natural flow of any academic course.

Family schedules can be difficult and subject to change in a short while. With constant moves, military kids may miss out on being mentored by a teacher who takes a special interest in their education.

All they need is a consistent, quality education at every duty station.

With online schooling, students belonging to the military families enjoy the flexibility that allows them to study at their own pace. It just fits in with the realities of their life.

Why Forest Trail Academy?

Forest Trail Academy is one the most reliable online schools.

It offers homeschool courses to students enrolled in the United

States and abroad.The diverse online curriculums provided here are of high quality.

All the online homeschooling curriculum and programs offered here are regionally and nationally accredited. Specialized and highly qualified teachers are employed to conduct the varied online classes.

The school strives to create a highly nurturing environment for all the young learners to reach their maximum potential.The curriculum is highly interactive with regular student-teacher interaction.Thus, the students of Forest Trail Academy get to explore and master in all the required core subjects including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies and History.

YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE STARTS HERE YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE STARTS HERE Separate yourself from the pack with an in-demand degree from Academy of Art University.

Separate yourself from the pack with an in-demand degree from Academy of Art University.

“Do everything you can to make sure that your toolbox has everything in it that you think it’s going to need, and “Do everything make surego that your toolbox has everything in it that youSchool think it’s going to need, and when you think you you can havetoeverything, and look for more.”

—Daryn LaBier, MFA of Photography when you think you have everything, go and look for more.” —Daryn LaBier, MFA School of Photography

Read more about Daryn’s journey at academyart.edu/labier Read more about Daryn’s journey at academyart.edu/labier Family Owned Since 1929 | 888.680.8691 | Family Owned Since 1929 | 888.680.8691 |

Yellow Ribbon Participant Yellow Ribbon Participant

Visit academyart.edu to learn more about total costs, median student loan debt, potential occupations and other information. Accredited member WSCUC, NASAD, CIDA (BFA-IAD, MFA-IAD), NAAB (B.ARCH, M.ARCH), CTC (California Teacher Credential). Student image by Daryn Labier, MFA, School of Photography.

Visit academyart.edu to learn more about total costs, median student loan debt, potential occupations and other information. Accredited member WSCUC, NASAD, CIDA (BFA-IAD, MFA-IAD), NAAB (B.ARCH, M.ARCH), CTC (California Teacher Credential). Student image by Daryn Labier, MFA, School of Photography.

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