Griffon Winter 2010

THE

“Victory Starts Here”

Published in the interest of the 108th Training Command • Vol 34.4 Winter 2010

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 3

From the Commanding General...

We must step out and lead the way ing Commander and Command Sergeant Major Conference, Deputy Commanding General TRADOC, Initial Military Training, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling cited all of the changes and accomplishments that recently occurred in IMT.There has been an acceptance of revised warrior task and battle drills by the Army, as well as a revised basic training POI.TRADOC has led the way in the expansion of the soldier athlete initiative.That will include a new APFT as well as “fueling” the soldier. Hertling has cited that he has personally visited a number of training centers in the United States Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard and unequivocally feels that, in his opinion, the U. S. Army still does it best.

We have accomplished a drill sergeant POI review and are connecting our young Soldiers to digital applications. We have focused on our professional development through cadre certification programs, revisiting processes, stewardship and facets of the Army profession, and provided a school for the Soldiers and assignment to IMT. We are working through the issues of operationalizing the RC and total Army drill sergeant academy into one school.

Change is all around us.

Commanding General of Accessions Command, Lt. Gen. Ben Freakley also spoke on our shared mission.The good news is that through the winds of change, we have

stan, and the Commanding General for CSTC-A who thanked me on behalf of all of you for the tremendous support that the soldiers of this Command provided to the NATO training mission in Afghanistan. Many of you saw the article in Army Times and USA Today on our female drill sergeants from the 95th Training Division who made history by training the first female officers entering into the Afghanistan Army.This is just one example of the many great things being done by our drill sergeants, our instructors and our Soldiers as part of the training base, wherever that training base finds us.

We have a great challenge before us. Stultz is warning of the uncertainty of the future and challenging us to step up. I look at this as an opportunity to create our own destiny by looking at doing business differently than what we have done in the past. I challenge all of you to think out of the box, to understand the constraints and work through them. William Jennings Bryan once said “Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved”.

The Army continues to install

discipline, values and exceptional

training to develop America’s young

By Brig Gen. Robert P. Stall Commanding General 108th Training Command (IET)

There is an old Chinese proverb (or curse) that says “May you live in interesting times.” I attended the United States Army Reserve Senior Leader Conference on 16 to18 October. Commanding General, United States Army Reserve Command, Lt. Gen. Jack Stultz, began his opening comments by saying we are in the period of uncertainty.

The military has now downsized to 40,000 troops in Iraq and are due to depart Iraq in totality, December of next year. We have surged an additional 30,000 soldiers in Afghanistan and are due to begin drawing down in that theater by next June.The question in front of us then is, what is the demand for United States Armed Forces going to be in the near future. It was easy to be predictable during the long war on terror.That predictability has gone away. Dealing with force gaps throws another wrinkle into the uncertainty that faces us in the future. With the recent elections and a new Congress there will be new relationships between the political and the military as well as uncertainty in resources for the military in the future.

Stultz painted this landscape in order to say we cannot sit back and wait to see what the future will bring us. We must step out and lead the way. Our roles and mission, our future and training have a lot to do with how we approach what is ahead. We cannot lose sight of our overall responsibility.That is, to provide trained and ready Soldiers that this nation needs. One thing that we can be certain of, that there will be fewer resources to do our jobs in the future.This will make the challenges greater. Change and transformation will occur at an accelerating rate.

At a recent Initial Military Train-

men and women. qualified over 106,000 civilians to serve in the United States Army and Army Reserve this fiscal year, FSTP record-breaking 33,276 and FY 10.

Ninety-nine percent of our young soldiers have a high school diploma; over 99% are in the top three tiers of the ASVAB. Over 9,700 officers will be commissioned into the Army this year. Freakley stated that the Army continues to qualify the best of America’s youth to serve.

The Army continues to install discipline, values and exceptional training to develop America’s young men and women.

I was very proud and delighted to receive a note from Lt. Gen. Bill Caldwell, the Commander of NATO training mission, Afghani– c a r e e r

Victory starts here!

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Winter 2010

Contents From the Commanding General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 From the Command Sgt. Maj. . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Task Force Vanguard Completes Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A Fond Farewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Devotion to Duty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 108th Training Command (IET) Warrant Officer Workshop . . . . . . . . 9 CIOR MILCOMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Annual Training Diary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Hess Honored in D.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Drill Sergeants Training Drill Sergeants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Soldiering Family Affair for Pickowicz Clan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Combatives Training at Ft. Dix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 War Bonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Sliker Named Top Graduate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mud Run! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Female Afghan Officer Candidates Usher in New Era . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Brothers in Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 ‘Iron Men’ Become ‘Iron Professionals’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Stan Kummer Receives French Legion of Honor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Mobilized Soldier Aids in Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Army Leaders Promise to Continue Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Zimmerman Secures Distinguished Honor Graduate Title . . . . . . . . . 34 Army Considering IRR With No Involuntary Deployments . . . . . . . . . 36 Frugal Drilling: Reducing Your Out of Pocket Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Remembering Lt. Col. Robert Zimmerman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Chaplain Corners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Mobilized Soldiers Race for the Cure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Griffon Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Soldier’s Gold Mine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

108th Training Command (IET) • Charlotte, NC • Vol. 34, No. 4 Winter 2010 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General..................................................................................Brig. Gen. (P) Robert P. Stall Deputy Commanding General..................................................................................Col. Timothy Welch Command Sgt. Maj...........................................................................Command Sgt. Maj. William Payne Command Chief Warrant Officer...........................................................................CW5 Shirley B. Moser Supervisory Chief Executive Officer...................................................................................Mr. Larry Cruz Public Affairs Officer........................................................................................................Lt. Col. Chris Black Deputy Public Affairs Officer...........................................................................................Lt. M. Scott Rode Public Affairs NCOIC/Editor....................................................................Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins Email: marty.a.collins@usar.army.mil Public Affairs NCO.................................................................................................Staff Sgt. Latonya Kelly 95th Training Division (IET) Commanding General..........................................................................................Col. William Soderberg Command Sgt. Maj................................................................................Command Sgt. Maj. Don Smith Public Affairs Officer.....................................................................................................Cpt. Jennifer Cotten Public Affairs NCO........................................................................................................Spc. Joshua Flowers

Front Cover: Maj. Thomas Gillis, S-1 (foreground) and Lt. Col. Russell Bonaccorso, former commander, 1st Battalion (BCT) 304th Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET) take aim at the M9 Range at Ft. Devens, Mass. The unit is based out of Londonderry, N.H. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs Inside Cover: Brig. Gen. Robert Stall, commanding general, 108th Training Command (IET) passes the 95th Training Division (IET) colors to Col. William Soderberg as Command Sgt. Maj. Don Smith watches. Soderberg assumed command of the 95th Training Division (IET) in a ceremony at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma City, Okla. on October 23rd. Photo by Cpt. Jennifer Cotten, 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer

98th Training Division (IET) Commanding General............................................................................Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards Command Sgt. Maj...................................................................Command Sgt. Maj. Milton Newsome Public Affairs Officer...................................................................................Maj. Joseph Gingold (Acting) Public Affairs NCO.................................................................................................Staff Sgt. Richard Harris 104th Training Division (LT) Commanding General.........................................................................................Brig. Gen. Daniel L. York Command Sgt. Maj.....................................................................Command Sgt. Maj. Juan M. Loera Jr. Public Affairs Officer.......................................................................................................Maj. Alex Johnson Public Affairs NCO..................................................................................................................................Vacant 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 nonmerit 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 101, 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 - 704-227-2820 ext. 4087 2011 Deadlines: Spring Jan 8, 2011 • Summer April 15, 2011

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 5

From the Command Sergeant Major...

Army School System Concept brings changes enlisted training at Fort Monroe, Va. which will soon to be moving to Fort Eustis, Va. I would like to also say thanks and wish 98th Training Division (IET) Command Sgt. Maj. Milton Newsome the best of luck as he finishes his tour as the Command Sgt. Maj. of the 98th Training Division. Newsome has dedicated a good portion of his career to the 98th and has helped considerably to make the transition through transformation. As my career in the 108th is winding down, I know exactly how he must feel. Congratulations to 108th Training Command (IET) Deputy Commanding Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards for being selected as the commander of the 98th Training Division.

If you were not aware of the fact by now the Initial Military Training Command is looking at consolidating the Army and Army Reserve Drill Sergeants School as part of the Army School System Concept.The 108th Training Command, United States Army Reserve Command and the Initial Military Training Commands are currently working out the details.

By the time you read this, Command Sgt. Maj.Travis Williams, the current Army Reserve Drill Sergeant School Commandant, will be in the process of moving on to a new assignment. We thank him for all he has accomplished in his short tenure at the USAR Drill Sergeant

School and wish him well and God Speed as he transitions to his new position.

Sgt. Maj. Ronald Law will be taking over as the Commandant of the USAR Drill Sergeant School as we go through the consolidation and determine the future of the com-

input to our Drill Sergeant School.

Hopefully, after consolidation we will still have sergeants and multiple class options to continue filling our ranks.

Our female cadre supplied by the 95th Training Division (IET) did an outstanding job in training the first class of female officer candidates in Afghanistan. So good in fact that Maj. Gen. John Campbell, commander, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) – Afghanistan, has asked for continued female cadre support to act as advisors to the Jordanian mission, in the upcoming year.

Remember, all of the issues addressed in the last issue, NCOERS, NCOES, APFT, weapons qualification, the USARC Pre-Command Course for both officers and their battle buddy first sergeants and command sergeants major and medical readiness still continue to be hot issues and need to be addressed.

Thank you all for your selfless service. Hope that your holidays are good ones. Do not forget to remember our comrades in arms that are still abroad in harms way and will be away from their families over the holidays and never forget the sacrifice made by those that will allow you to enjoy your time at peace at home. I’ll see you on the trail.

Do not forget to remember our comrades in arms that are

still abroad in harms way and

will be away from their families

By Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Payne Command Sergeant Major 108th Training Command (IET)

As the holiday season approaches, let us give thanks for living in the greatest country in the world.

It has been a busy year, but new challenges will arise in Training Year 2011.

I want to officially welcome the Soldiers of the 104th Training Division (Leader Training) into the 108th Training Command (IET) family. With the addition of Reserve Officer Training Corps we now cover both sides of Initial Military Training, both officer and enlisted.This also means that we will have two bosses on the Army side, Accessions Command at Fort Knox, Ky. for officer training and the Initial Military Training Command (IMT) for

over the holidays. mandant position. Law has a wealth of experience as a Command Sgt. Maj. to include positions at the battalion level,Task Force Marshall, Senior Enlisted Advisor at Besmayah Range in Iraq for the Coalition Military Assistance Training Team, MultiNational Security Transition Command - Iraq and as Command Sgt. Maj.Task Force 802. His experience as the Command Sgt. Maj. of Task Force Marshall gives him plenty of experience in dealing with the many entities on Fort Jackson, S.C. and will make him a valuable asset during this transition.

As part of the transition, FM 614200 will be modified to eliminate Specialists (E-4s) as recruits for Drill Sergeant Candidates.They are currently about 20 percent of our

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6 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Task Force Vanguard Completes Mission

By Col. Timothy Welch Deputy Commanding General 108th Training Command (IET)

I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks to the Officers and NonCommissioned Officers of Task Force Vanguard. After two and one half years of accomplishing the Chief Army Reserve mission of transitioning high quality Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers into the Army Reserve from the Active

and the stationing of Task Force age of Drill Sergeants,Task Force Component (AC), the mission of Vanguard’s mission initially focused NCOs was adjusted accordingly.

Task Force Vanguard is complete.

Once the Army Reserve reached its on transitioning high quality AcTask Force Vanguard’s TPU Solend strength objective of 205,000 tive Component NCOs at TRADOC diers strategically located at Army Soldiers,Task Force Vanguard refoposts to be Drill Sergeant Candiposts nationwide also assisted cused efforts and provided even dates. As a result of transformation, transitioning Soldiers in locating more value by moving from an agduring the fall of 2008 the Task jobs with military friendly compagregate focus to one of precision.

Force was placed under the comnies and provided information to Task Force Vanguard was more efproperly sponsor inbound Soldiers. mand and control of the 108th ficient by a cost Organized in Febbenefit ratio of ruary of 2008, the than any Task Force asOrganized in February of 2008, the Task Force 22:1 other method used sessed over 1900 fill USAR formaSoldiers into the assessed over 1900 Soldiers into the USAR to tions.Task Force USAR and quickly Vanguard targeted gained Army-wide and quickly gained Army-wide recognition as the Soldiers needrecognition as the ed most: company Army Reserve orgrade officers, Drill ganization synony- the Army Reserve organization synonymous Sergeants Candimous with transidates and low dentioning Soldiers. with transitioning Soldiers. sity MOSs. Task Force VanA grass roots efguard was staffed fort developed by

by TPU Officers the 95th Training Division to meet and NCOs that worked at transition Training Command (IET). 108th a critical shortage,Task Force VanTraining Command leaders quickly centers located across the Contiguard proved to be a viable, valurealized that Vanguard NCOs would nental United States.These trained able and cost effective force mulbe able to achieve their mission and highly skilled Soldiers were while funneling additional qualified tiplier for the entire USAR. At the enormously successful and proved first meeting of the Human Capital to be the USAR’s most effective and Soldiers into other Army Reserve Advisory Forum (HCAF), the forum units. efficient method of adding quality agreed that permanent structure The mission was therefore exSoldiers. panded to one of “Grow the Force” was needed to perform this role. As Formed by the 95th Training a result, AGR 79Vs have been straand target all officers and Soldiers Division (IET) to meet its shorttegically placed at transition points transitioning out of the Active with the mission of shaping the Component. During the summer force by assessing and bringing in of 2008 it was determined that high quality Soldiers. Again, thanks FORSCOM posts yielded a higher for a job extremely well done! volume of transitioning Soldiers

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 7

A fond farewell

By Brig. Gen. Roger Duff 95th Training Division (IET), Former Commanding General

The past two years have been, perhaps, the fastest I have experienced in my career as an Army officer. As I carefully examined the reason(s) for this I determined it to be one of two phenomina; 1) This has been the most exciting, most rewarding assignment I have ever had, or 2) Does time go just seem to go by quicker as we age?

When I consulted my lovely spouse the great distinction of having been an oath to protect and defend the Linda and sought her professional Constitution.Those who made the part of a team blessed with great mental health advise as to which leaders, mentors, Soldiers, veterans, comitmment to defend our liberty one of the two reasons were most civilians and families, too numerous and freedom.

I do not know how you all feel applicable to the quick passage of to mention.Truly, a top notch team. about it but I am humbled beyond time, she claimed,“ Actually, the real Despite one of the largest geowords.

Commanding the 95th Digraphic dispersions of any organizareasons are; 1) You are not getting vision for me was never any younger and; 2) about the position or the You are getting older .

Commanding the 95th Division status that came with it. . . But seriously, you are It was about being surhaving too much fun”! was about being surrounded by an rounded by an incredI’m going with the “fun” ible team willing to drop analysis.

And so incredible team willing to drop anything anything at a moment’s it is the case when we notice and make the ultifind ourselves in an at a moment’s notice and make the mate sacrifice for this naassignment that protion. It is about an orgavides so much growth, ultimate sacrifi ce for this nation. nization of people who experience and satsifacshape American and have tion. As commander of the most positive impact on society. tion in the United States Army, the the 95th Training Division, (IET), I What other profession is willing to 95th Division displayed consistent can honestly say this has been the do that? caring, dedicated and professional greatest assignment I have had the You have all had a tremendous leadership second to none. privilege to serve in. What magimpact on my life.This is one expeEach and everyone of you should nificent people. What tremendous rience I cannot and will not ever be proud to be serving in this professionals. What true American forget.

The friendships and associaorganization.The legacy, the hisHeroes! What an honor it has been tions I have made throughout this tory, the accomplishments. What a to to serve with all of you and be tour will last a lifetime. Even the spectacular history. What a gloried part of a legendary team. challenges that came with comlegacy.You are all part of it.You are Having traveled throughout the mand will only serve as a means to all part of that history. I am honcountry and abroad this past two improve on the next assignment ored to have shared in that expeyears I cannot describe in words and enhance my life experience. rience with you. When you break the deep appreciation and gratiThank you all for your support, it all down, the legacy of the 95th tude I have toward the men and dedication to this nation and the women who have served along Divsion is about “the people”. It Division. side me in the Division and those is about you and those those who Victory Division! who served before us. I have had came before you.Those who swore

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8 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Devotion to duty What does this mean to you? It means to fulfill your obligationsprofessional, legal, and moral. Accept responsibility for your own actions and those entrusted to your care. Find opportunities to improve yourself for the good of the group. So it is our “duty” to perform our reserve jobs to the upmost of our abilities not just those duties that are recognized but the little tasks in our day to day operations that make our mission a success.

We can’t allow ourselves to forget these tasks.They influence all of those around us and make or break the Soldiers who are questioning why they should keep attending Battle Assemblies. Recently I heard disturbing facts at a briefing on “participation”. Some Soldiers stated they are “tired of the reserves”.

Whose fault is this? Our devotion to duty should include making every

minute of our time as a member of the Army Reserve count.There should never be a time when we look around and see someone who needs assistance or doesn’t have anything to do. Every year should

Find opportunities to improve yourself for the good of the group.

By Command Chief Warrant Officer Shirley Moser 108th Training Command (IET)

We use this phase often on our evaluations both enlisted and officer and award recommendations.

108th Training Command (IET) Are you aiming to become a

Warrant Officer?

For more information about the exciting and challenging career as a Warrant Officer and about how to submit a Warrant Officer Application packet, visit http://www.usarc.army.mil/retnwo.htm or StayAR@StayArmyReserve.com Minimum Requirements* • Must be a US Citizen • General Technical (GT) score of 110 or Higher • High School graduate or GED • Secret Security Clearance (Interim secret is acceptable to apply) • Pass the APFT; meet Height & Weight Standards • Pass the Chapter 2 Appointment Physical • Between ages 18 – 46 (waiverable) • Be a Specialist (E4) or above • Have Civilian Experience or hold a Feeder MOS (Except for 153A Aviation) • Additional criteria based on Warrant Officer MOS *If you do not meet these minimum requirements but are still interested in becoming a Warrant Officer please contact your Region’s ARCD Special Mission NCO for more information on possibilities.

be the next step to a higher level in the career path we have chosen with more responsibility, mentorship, tasks, duties, and leadership requirements.

It is our duty to read, update our computer skills, teach ourselves about new Army systems, learn what is going on around us to make our reserve job interesting and fulfilling. Another task is to make sure your Army records are up to date.

Many Soldiers don’t get promoted because they allow others to be the experts on their records. Personnel records are on line now.They should be permanently updated in your AKO personnel file. Do you know how to go there and make sure your records are correct? Do you still go to the S1 shop and ask to see your record? Things have changed and soon all Soldiers will have to certify their records online for promotion, not just officers.The

days of putting a promotion packet together are just about over. Are you sure what school you should attend next or made a plan for the next few years? Are you completing your college degree? Are you keeping yourself physically fit and your PHA updated?

I have now served as the Command Chief Warrant Officer for a year. My first year was filled with challenges. I found out that devotion to duty meant all of the above and then some. It was hard to break new ground and forge ahead. As with all reserve jobs, you have to find the time to be good at what you do. Leaders have to use their time wisely when away from the duties of the day and plan for the care and training of their Soldiers who put their trust and faith in them to do the job they were promoted into.

Our first 108th Warrant Officer Career Development Workshop held in August was a real success. I think this workshop will continue to grow, improve, and become number one on the list to assist 108th Warrant Officers and future candidates develop and discuss issues with their leaders and fellow Warrant Officers. As we move forward in the coming year, let’s focus on the future and our devotion to duty no matter how small or how big. It has been a great year and the future is bright with many changes and exciting missions to accomplish.

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 9

108th Training Command Warrant Officer Workshop

By Command Chief Warrant Officer Shirley Moser 108th Training Command (IET)

On August 13th and 14th, 2010, the first 108th Training Command (IET) Warrant Officer Workshop was conducted. Guest speakers included USAR Command Chief Warrant Officer James Thompson.

His briefing on the strength of the Army Reserve and overview of warrant officers, mission, accomplishments, successes, and warrant officer responsibilities was exceptional. Chief Warrant Officer 5, Candis Martin of the Quartermaster proponent and Chief Warrant Officer 5, Denise Scarboro of the Military Intelligence proponent provided an array of information not only about branch requirements but about mentorship, future opportunities, education, and the Warrant Officer Program in general. Chief Warrant Officer 5, Randall Hirsch, Signal Corps proponent, provided an in depth briefing on the education required for this MOS and explained the long list of certifications and schools to be awarded after obtaining the Information Technology MOS. Chief Warrant Officer 5, Billy Robinson briefed,“Warrant Officer Career Development and Mapping”, and proved to be very inspirational to the audience regarding their desire to follow the correct path and to set long range goals. Sgt. 1st Class Donald Scott provided an excellent briefing on Warrant Officer Recruiting and packet development. Chief Warrant Officer Jim Anderson 5, 88th Regional Support Command, G1 and Chief Warrant Officer 5, Marilyn Anderson, USARC G1 also attended and answered various questions.

Comments from warrant officers in attendance included,“this workshop helped reenergize my feeling about the Warrant Officer Program” and “very uplifting and informative”. Changes were emphasized regarding the educational system that would assist warrant officers become better leaders since now some assume command positions, leadership roles worldwide and rotating job assignments.

As a technical expert, warrant officers are responsible for education in their MOS and also for having the required skills to perform the job from the day of appointment.

In order to do this, warrants must be able to research and take the initiative to find the answers and complete the mission and guide others to the path of success.The 108th Training Command (IET) has appointed a deputy command chief warrant officer at each division to assist with distribution of information at the division level.

Attendees of the first 108th Training Command (IET) Warrant Officer Workshop, on August 13th and 14th, 2010 listen as a speaker briefs the warrant officers in attendance. Courtesy Photo

They are: Chief Warrant Officer 4, Karen Kay, 108th Training Command; Chief Warrant Officer 5, Gail Olson, 104th Training Division (LT); Chief Warrant Officer 4, Dawn Blanchard, 95th Training Division (IET); and Chief Warrant Officer 4, Scott Dalton, 98th Training Division (IET).The deputy command chief warrant officers met each other during the workshop and made plans for mentorship of their respective warrants and warrant officer candidates.There are many new vacancies within the 108th filling up with new candidates, warrant officers and chief warrant officers. After selection, these candidates need support from the units and the new warrant officers require mentoring.

The workshop proved to be a tremendous step forward toward the growth of the mentorship program and the warrant officer program overall. It provided a chance for the 108th Training Command warrant officers to meet some of the finest warrant officers in the United States Army Reserve and get answers to questions first hand.

As we organize another workshop, please make plans to attend. All those interested in the warrant officer program are welcome. We hope to have a session to review records and help warrants plan the next career move. I look forward to seeing you at the next 108th Training Command Warrant Officer Workshop!

10 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Confederation of Inter-Allied Reserve Officers Annual Military Competition

By Sgt. 1st Class Tommy Bish 108th Training Command (IET) G-7

The 108th Training Command (IET) sent five Soldiers to Vermont, Sweden, and Norway for the Confederation of Inter-allied Reserve Officers’ annual Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) from July 18th to August 15th, 2010.

In December 2009, Maj. Gen. James B. Mallory, former commanding general, 108th Training Command (IET) tasked the 108th G-7 to assemble a group of leaders to

compete for positions on the U.S. Joint Reserve Forces Pentathlon team.The published standards were daunting, but five leaders stepped up to the challenge.The candidates reported to Ethan Allen Firing Range near Burlington, Vt. for training, individual assessment, and team selection in July.They were joined by two cadets from Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, Calif. and were met by several veteran competitors who conducted the training and assessment.

Cadre members who conductnavigated through Vermont’s Green ed the two week training camp Mountains day after day to improve at Ethan Allen Firing Range were their orienteering times and spent MILCOMP veteran competitors countless hours on the rifle and from the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard. Most of them traveled to Vt. to conduct the training, assessment, and selection without compensation recognizing the value of the program. For instance, former USAF Cpt. Corey Peterson, a veteran competitor, volunteered time away from his civilian career to assist Cpt. Top row from left to right – Sgt. Maj. Ron Law, Sgt. Dave Schulz, Daryl Remick and Staff Sgt. Tom Dunbar, Sgt. 1st Class Jered Williams, Cpt. Daryl the other coaches Remick, Cpt. Patrick McLean, Cdr. Grant Staats, Swedish Cpt. (Ret.) Bo Walger. with the land and Bottom row from left to right – Staff Sgt. Bruce Beauregard, water obstacle Cdt. Jack Schneeman, Cdt. Isaias Lopez, Chief Warrant Officer courses training.

Tim Friederichs, Swedish Cpt. Roger Lindekrantz. Photo by Sgt. Remick, is a for1st Class, Tommy Bish 108th Training Command (IET) G-7 mer member of the U.S. Marine Corps and currently a Soldier in the Army pistol ranges.They practiced disNational Guard. Additionally, he is tance estimation and threw hand completing his third year of medigrenades at every opportunity.They cal school. He is a veteran competi- were also evaluated on map readtor and provided training on peak ing, medical skills, and the Laws of performance, sports nutrition, and Armed conflict. goal setting. Lt. Col. Martin FarenAfter 10 days of training and asfield, an Army Special Forces Ofsessment, Cdr. Grant Staats, comficer, veteran competitor, and U.S. mander, US Navy SEAL Team 18, vetArmy liaison to Portugal, flew to Vt. eran competitor and team coach, to share his expertise on a variety finalized the selection process and of topics. issued team assignments. Each of USAF Col. (Ret.) Chuck Ferguson the seven candidates earned a slot and USCG Lt. Cdr. (Ret.) Mal Hardon the novice teams. ing volunteered to conduct the Staff Sgt.Tom Dunbar, a drill orienteering, map reading, and dissergeant from the 95th Training tance estimation training. Ferguson Division (IET), was selected as the holds a PhD in International Affairs, leader of Team USA #1.The other flew 82 combat missions in Vietteam members from the 108th nam as an Intel Officer, and is the Training Command (IET) were Cpt. former President of the US OrienPatrick McClean, 95th Training Diteering Federation. Staff Sgt. Bruce vision (IET), Chief Warrant Officer Beauregard coordinated use of the 2 Tim Friederichs, 108th Training ranges, weapons, and ammunition Command (IET) G-1, Sgt. 1st Class through the Vermont Army National Jered Williams, USAR Drill Sergeant Guard and provided marksmanship School, and Sgt. Dave Schulz, 95th training. He wears the coveted Pres- Training Division (IET). Cadets Jack ident’s Hundred Tab and is a MILSchneeman and Isaias Lopez repreCOMP veteran shooting coach. sented Cadet Command and were The training and assessment bewelcomed by the other team memgan on July 18th with a five mile bers.The Veteran team was made timed run along the shore of Lake up of Cdr. Staats, USAF Lt. Col. Joel Champlain; the goal to achieve was Winton, and Cpt. Daryl Remick. a time of 32 minutes or less. In the On August 1st, the teams defollowing days, the candidates were parted Vermont and flew to Eutimed on 400 meter and 800 meter rope and continued training. After runs, the NATO Standard Land Oba long flight,Team USA landed in stacle course, and the water obstaStockholm, Sweden and immediatecle course.The land obstacle course ly traveled to and executed a five is 500 meters long and consists of kilometer orienteering course pre20 obstacles.The goal was to compared by Roger Lindekrantz. plete the course in three minutes.

Lindekrantz, coach of Team The swim obstacle course is 50 me- Sweden, agreed to coordinate the ters long and has four challenging European training for Team USA. obstacles; the goal was 40 seconds (see MILITARY COMPETITION page 50) in utility uniform.The candidates

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 11

Annual Training Diary:

4/323rd (BCT), 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET)

By Maj. Japen T. Hollist Battalion Executive Officer 4/323rd (BCT)

EGLIN AFB, Fla. — A total of 50 drill sergeants and Soldiers of the 1st Brigade 4th/ 323rd Regiment deployed to Eglin Air Force Base to participate in “Operation Doolittle”, a battalion two week exercise as part of the battalion’s yearly ARFORGEN cycle training initiative.

Company command teams from the southern region of the United States represented by Alpha Company, Montgomery Ala., Bravo Company, Huntsville Ala., Delta Company, Starkville Miss., and Echo Company Mobile, Ala. exercised deployment checklists while conducting risk mitigation, pre-combat inspections and pre-combat checks.

After a day of travel and full personnel accountability, day two began with a battalion three mile morning run at which point the battalion started out in formation but was released at the 1.5 mile marker to conduct individual runs back to the start point. Staff Sgt.

Patrick Moody, E Company, clearly led the way to finish first, while incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Benny Hubbard motivated individual Soldiers to complete the run. Moody showed exceptional physical fitness during this time and is preparing to run a marathon in the near future. After completing a rigorous physical fitness training session the battalion set out to conduct a day long land navigation course. The demanding course was operated by the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) training staff from the US. Air Force’s Special Operations Command (AFSOC) located at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The course was demanding and forced Soldiers to navigate through large sections of swamp, “wait a minute vines” and forest to obtain points throughout the area.

Each team consisted of four Soldiers, map and compass. Any other navigational aids were not permitted as the purpose of the course was to learn the basics. Each Soldier plotted points on a map and trekked anywhere from 1000 meters to 1500 meters between

points.

Day three was the FATS5 Simulator operated by the Alabama National Guard (ALNG). The FATS5 is a “video game” system that simulates qualifying with an M16/M4 rifle. All drill sergeants and Soldiers in attendance qualified on the system. While the companies rotated through this training; two companies, lead by A Company, 1st Sgt. George Lane and E Company, 1st Sgt. William Seals exercised training initiative by utilizing a nearby MOUNT facility to conduct breaching techniques and other individual and collective tasks.

Day four consisted of the obstacle course, nicknamed “The Bully” and additional time on the FATS5 simulator. The obstacle course was again run by the TACP’s. The obstacle course proved to be one of the most physically challenging and a great team building event for the week. Each company designated two Soldiers per team and cheered them on as they negotiated each obstacle. As each obstacle grew with difficulty each team member

“dug deeper inside themselves” to help one another through the course and finish with a record time. Two outstanding performances were demonstrated by D Company Commander, Cpt. Sonya Brown, and Sgt. Charmain Tolbert, C Company.These two Soldiers attacked each obstacle and had nothing “left in their gas tank” as they crossed the finish line. The obstacle course was considered by most to be the most difficult event of the week.

The unit was so impressed by the professionalism and training assistance provided by the USAF TACPs that Lt. Col. Brelia, battalion commander, awarded two impact Army Achievement Medals to their cadre.

Day five provided the opportunity for D Company to exercise some of its additional drill sergeant tasks by running a live M16A1 and 9MM range for a medical services battalion. Soldiers from the medical battalion received outstanding premarksmanship training from Drill Sergeant Bobby Floyd. This resulted (see ANNUAL page 12)

Sgt. Charmain Tolbert, C Company, executes the horizontal ladder during the battalion field training exercise. Photo by Maj. Japen Hollist, executive officer, 4/323rd (BCT) 98th Training Division (IET)

12 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Annual Training Diary (Continued from page 11)

in the medical battalion qualifying 90 percent of its Soldiers. In addition to conducting live fire training, the rest of the battalion performed Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP) activities. These activities consisted of immunization shots, medical and dental scheduling and additional S1 related events. The battalion

was able to accomplish the immunization tasks due to the outstanding coordination efforts of Maj. Keith Jackson, 4/323rd Bn. S3 and the willingness of Hurlburt Field’s Medical Clinic to support the Army Reserve. The US Air Force’s willingness to share their resources to get our Soldiers medically qualified was highly beneficial.

Day six consisted of individual

company training and HMMWV Egress Assistance Trainer (HEAT) training from the ALNG. It is a safe, realistic Humvee rollover training tool designed to prepare Soldiers for emergency evacuation, self aid, buddy care and injured personnel removal in the event a vehicle becomes inverted or rolled on its side.

Day seven consisted of a three hour road march. The battalion

1st Sgt. George Lane instructs during drown proofing. Photo by Maj. Japen Hollist, executive officer, 4/323rd (BCT) 98th Training Division (IET)

stepped at 0430 in order to avoid the heat. They maintained an EIB standard pace to cover 12 miles.

The rest of the day consisted of weapons cleaning, weapons turn in, and religious services.

Day eight proved to be a good challenge, for some, as the battalion conducted drown proofing in PTs, ACUs and boots, followed by company training. Soldiers started

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 13 out with a safety briefing and block of instruction provided by Staff Sgt. Jason Parry, training NCO. A demonstration by fellow drill sergeants provided confidence for those Soldiers not as comfortable in the water.

Soldiers leaped into the water while keeping their heads above the water and started to tread water for a period of time. Next the participants took off their boots tied them together and held on to them the best they could. Once the boots were off, the Soldiers took of their ACU bottoms and used them as a flotation device. Although some Soldiers found this difficult at first, most of them were able to demonstrate the utility of “inflating their pants” and keeping afloat. Finally, the Soldiers conducted one last task before enjoying free swimming activities and that was swimming with a 10 pound weight out of the water (simulating a Soldier’s weapon). At the end of the training the Soldiers were ready to conduct company scheduled training. 4/323rd (BCT) Soldiers training with the Tactical Operations Medical Simulator (TOMS) at Eglin AFB, Fla. during the battalion’s field training exercise. Photo by Maj. Japen Hollist, executive officer, 4/323rd (BCT) 98th Training Division (IET) Day nine was a staff ride to Pensacola Naval Air Stavate those that needed that little company command team. While showed up and participated in tion to visit the National Aviation extra to pass the APFT. Following we were participating throughout organizational day activities. The Museum and take a tour of Fort the APFT the battalion moved to the day the Soldiers experienced a organizational day took place at Barnancas an old Army fort which Hurlburt Field in the afternoon to chance to maneuver in large area Eglin AFB at a park overlooking the protected Pensacola Bay. It was de- conduct individual movement and of wooded terrain as well as more beach, while Soldiers and Famicommissioned in 1947 and turned squad movement techniques at the confined smaller space where budlies enjoyed eating BBQ, playing over to the National Park Service. paint ball range. Elements of all dy team tactics proved to outsmart softball and volleyball, and going Day ten was a Fort Family brief four services, local and state units the enemy. This event was the culfishing. This was the capstone and instructions on how to comhave participated at the Hurlburt minating training event for the Batevent to a successful annual trainplete the AKO Fort Family workfield paint ball facility. It was this talion. ing which demonstrated the hard sheet; a Safety Council meeting and event that synergized all previous Saturday kicked off with the Batwork and dedication of the Sola surprise urinalysis test. training and created an enormous talion organizational day. Families diers and Families of the mighty Day eleven was the use of the amount of team building for each throughout the southern region 4th/323rd Regiment.

Tactical Operations Medical Simulator (TOMS). This laboratory is part of the AFSOC Casualty EvacuÍ ation Course used to train Airmen in combat medicine. It is as real as you can get to simulating battlefield injuries. The mannequins in the lab Í are programmed to speak, bleed, 2011 Secretary of Defense and even respond to medicine.

Employer Support Freedom Award Soldiers practiced emergency first aid and received additional medical Í training from the TOMS cadre.

Day twelve rounded out the Attention Guard and Reserve Service Members and Families previous two weeks of training.

Nominate your supportive employer for the On Friday morning the battalion Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, conducted the APFT. A precision demonstration provided by Staff the highest award given by the U.S. Government to employers Sgt. Daryl Gipson, E Company, left for exceptional support of Guard and Reserve employees. no question as to what the Army Í physical fitness standard were before conducting each event. Once Nominations the sit up and pushup events were November 1, 2010 - January 17, 2011 complete Soldiers prepared themselves for the two mile run. The at www.FreedomAward.mil Soldiers moved to the starting line received the block of instruction ESGR, a Department of Defense agency established in 1972, develops and promotes employer support for and the runners we moving around Guard and Reserve service, advocating relevant initiatives, recognizing outstanding support, increasing the 400 meter track as fast as they awareness of applicable laws and resolving conflict between employers and service members.

EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF could go. Throughout the two mile THE GUARD AND RESERVE www.ESGR.mil Í 1-800-336-4590 run, Soldiers cheered one another on and some of them ran to moti-

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14 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Hess honored in D.C.

By Ashley B. Craig Courtesy of Charleston Daily Mail staff

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Kenneth Hess received honors from the country he helped liberate more than 65 years ago.

Kenneth Hess, a retired Union Carbide millwright from Alum Creek, received the Ordre National de la Legion d’Honneur recently at the French Embassy in Washington D.C. Hess, 88, is one of the Iron Men of Metz as a member of Company D of the 377th Infantry Regiment of 95th Infantry Division organized in Texas.

Hess’ wife Hazel said her husband’s unit went into the French town of Metz and liberated it from the Germans.

“Hitler said nobody would go into Metz, but his division, plus another division, went in and liberated it,” Hazel said of her husband’s war efforts.“The people there in Metz, they never forgot it.”

Hess’ family flew to Washington and watched him receive the award at a cost of $3,000. Hazel said money was no object when it came to the award.

“We wanted him to go and we wanted our children to see it,” she said.

“We’re so very proud of him.”

Hess has previously been awarded the Bronze Star, among other medals, for his actions.

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 15

Drill Sergeants training Drill Sergeants By 2nd Lt. Dan Maher 3-385th, 4th Brigade 98th Training Division (IET)

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. — For three days last April, Ft. Dix N.J, Regional Training Center-East hosted the 3-385th Battalions annual four-day field training exercise (FTX). The 3-385th, a drill sergeant unit headquartered in Edison, N.J., often trains non-combat arms Soldiers at installations such as Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and Ft. Knox, Ky. Nearly 25 percent of the personnel deployed at Regional Training Center-East hail from the 3-385th.

Originally assigned to 108th Training Command (IET) headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., these men and

women, the majority who are drill sergeants, have sustained the RTCEast mission since 2008.

Training events were developed by 98th Training Division (IET) drill sergeants who previously served in Iraq with Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq (MNSTC-I).The MNSTC-I drill sergeant’s trained Iraqi Army Soldiers in combat operations. “It was gratifying to see that nearly three years later, the methods and concepts, based on real-life situations, are still being strongly presented to deploying Soldiers,” said Staff Sgt. Steve Rinaldi, 98th Training Division (IET).

The FTX included a series of events including: call for fire exercises, M16 and M9 weapons qualification, reflexive fire drills, land

navigation, and urban operations training.

“We all aren’t Infantry, yet you never know when you might be in a situation where you need these basic warfighting skills,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Ronnie Thomas, 3-385th.

During the urban operations training Soldiers were taught skills designed to develop their urban fighting skills.These skills will in turn be taught to basic training recruits. Some of the challenges Soldiers faced on the course were deploying smoke grenades, and firing at opposition forces (OPFOR) snipers.

The culminating exercise gave both leaders and team members an opportunity to check the effective-

ness of the training with a buildingclearing operation, complete with mass casualties, enemy prisoner of war handling, and simulated improvised explosive devices.

“The battalion considers infantry skills training essential to providing Soldiers the tools needed to survive their combat deployments,” said Lt. Col. Brian E. Miller, commander, 3-385th. He added,“I wish we had received this type of high quality, realistic and relevant training the first time we deployed.”

Those interested in learning more about joining the 3-385th or becoming a USAR Drill Sergeant should contact 1st Sgt. Randolph Weltch at Randolph.weltch@ us.army.mil.

During urban operations training Soldiers of the 3-385th, 98th Training Division (IET) were taught skills designed to develop their urban fighting skills. These skills will in turn be taught to basic training recruits. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Frank Blenman, E Co. 3/385th

16 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Drill Siblings

For Pickowicz clan, Soldiering is a family affair

By Sgt. Matthew McLaughlin 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

LONDONDERRY, N.H. — Step aside, Pierce, Garnett, and Allen, there is a new Big Three in town.

With a combined total of 40 years in the military and counting, the Pickowicz siblings of Gilmanton, N.H, are setting the standard for service.

The Pickowicz family has a long tradition of military service, with many extended family members serving in various branches. Three siblings served in A Company, 1st Battalion, and 304th Regiment. Sgt. 1st Class George J. Pickowicz III and Staff Sgt. Katherine Pickowicz are currently drill sergeants in the unit. Their sister, Staff Sgt. Christina M. Rowe, served as a supply sergeant before leaving the Army.

Their oldest sibling, Joel Pickowicz (AKA Rajon Rondo) also served in the 101st Airborne Division and deployed to Kosovo and Haiti.

Like Joel, the three 1-304th Regt.

Picokwicz’s have all deployed at separate times. George deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan while serving on active duty with the 82nd Airborne Division and Katherine deployed to Kuwait with the 368th Engineer Battalion. Christina also deployed to Iraq with the 98th Training Division while serving with the 304th Regt.

Although several family members have served and continue to serve, George and Katherine said they do not consider themselves a military family. When asked about their accomplishments both are humble and quiet. Major Thomas D. Gillis, special projects officer for the 304th, did not have this problem, however, and praised the entire family for their service.

“If this were a sports team, all three would be starters,” Gillis said.

“It is a very impressive family, to produce children like that.”

Christina Rowe was the first of the Pickowicz clan to serve with 1-304th Regt.; she set the standard for her siblings. Rowe was known for her strong work ethic and perfect Army physical fitness scores.

“Sergeant Rowe might have been one of the best NCOs we’ve ever had, especially for supply,” Gillis said.

Staff Sgt. Katherine Pickowicz, Alpha Company, 1st BatKatherine followed talion, 304th Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET) preher sister’s example and pares for the M16 range at Ft. Devens, Mass. Pickowicz joined the 1-304th Regt., is one of four siblings who have served in the US Army. where she excelled as a Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs drill sergeant and maintained the family standard of excellence, Gillooking for a reserve duty station lis said. When Christina separated closer to home. The 1-304th Regt. from the Army, however, the unit was more than happy to exchange almost had their Pickowicz’s cut in one Pickowicz for another, Gillis half. Fortunately, George, finishing said. his service in the regular Army, was “We found out we were going

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 17 to lose Rowe, but then we were told there is a male Pickowicz who would like to join us,” he said.

“Without hesitation we said we’ll take him. We knew he would be an outstanding soldier like his sisters. I’ve only known him for three months, but it is obvious from what I’ve seen we get quality work from him. We get quality work out of all of them. We’re glad to have the Picks.”

George and Katherine both said they are fortunate to have family who understand the demands of military service. They are their own family readiness group, supporting each other during deployments.

Katherine said their family is very supportive of their service and help whenever they can. During George’s two deployments, for example, the family supported him by looking out for his son and providing moral support.

“We are real lucky to have each other,” Katherine said. “We all understand what the job requires.”

Despite the military ties, how-

ever, they insist the family doesn’t spend Thanksgiving dinner telling war stories and doing pushups. When the uniforms are off, the Pickowicz family is indistinguishable from any American family, George said.

“We’re just a regular family,” he said. “When we’re together, we put that aside.”

The Pickowicz family may not

The Pickowicz family has a long tradition of military

service, with many extended family members serving in various branches. get the glory or money of the Boston Celtics, but the green they wear together continues the tradition of military families serving together. The family tradition of service, especially in a drill sergeant unit, ensures that the Pickowicz dynasty will continue in the hearts of the Soldiers they train.

Sgt. 1st Class George J. Pickowicz III, instructs Soldiers at the M9 Range at Ft. Devens, Mass.

Pickowicz is a drill sergeant with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 304th Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET) based at Londonderry, N.H. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

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18 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Reserve Combatives School?

Instructors Say They Can Field It Now

By Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Matson 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIXLAKEHURST, N.J. — Sang Truong pointed to a wall lined with rubber weapons, boxing gloves and helmets.

“When we came here, this building was empty,” he said.“We didn’t have any of this stuff, just an old, over-used wrestling mat and no gear. It wasn’t conducive to training.”

Staff Sgt.Truong, a Modern Army combatives (MACP) instructor with Company B, Regional Training Center-East, Army Support Activity (ASA) Dix, N.J., was referring to the Modern Army Combatives Building.

In this building, Soldiers are taught to use tactical flexibility – using offensive and defensive tactics to combat the enemy in close quarters.

Where there was once a dusty mat, a new mat, striking bags and new equipment now stand. Murals adorn the walls of a clean building that is always full of activity.

“Everything here was created by

us (the instructors) and driven by the Soldiers,”Truong said.

He shifted his focus to a group of 21 Soldiers, vigorously attacking one another.The Soldiers were practicing various MACP moves and techniques they had learned throughout the week, in preparation for their level one certification exam later that day.

“See this?” he asked as a rare smile crossed his face.“This is what I love about being an instructor.

They are teaching themselves. Four days ago, when they got on this mat, there was mass confusion. No one knew what to do.”

He continued,“Look at that group over there.That Soldier is sitting like a fighter, in the proper manner.The two Soldiers he’s helping are practicing the side mount.

The group over there is practicing a rear mount, he’s got an arm bar going on.The first day, there is no way they would have had the confidence to fight one another.

Now I have 21 trainers in this building who can take this back to their unit.”

The group of Soldiers, from local

towns in New Jersey, volunteered for the training after Truong and his instructors traveled to their Reserve Center for a day of combatives instruction.They’re here for forty hours of instruction to attain a skill level one certification.

Training Soldiers to receive their level one certification is one of two of the instructor’s main duties, Truong said.The other is conducting an eight-hour combatives familiarization class for mobilizing units.

More than 10,000 Soldiers have received familiarization training and more than 900 have earned their level one certifications since 2008.

Truong said interest and emphasis in the instruction has skyrocketed.

From 2008 to 2009, for example, the number of Soldiers who received familiarization training and level one certification more than tripled.

Sgt. Scott Taylor, another MACP instructor assigned to Company B, RTC-East, said the training is important, especially for Reserve Soldiers, because it is good, battle-focused training.

“We train Reserve Soldiers who

leave here and go to Iraq or Afghanistan and this training is extremely important,”Taylor said.“All these Soldiers interact with foreign nationals on a day-to-day basis.You never know when the situation may escalate. Soldiers need to know how to react to these situations.”

Taylor, a level-two-certified instructor who hails from Chatsworth, Ga., said he became involved in combatives when he attained his mandatory level one certification in Drill Sergeant School. From that point on, he said he was instantly hooked.

“I love the fact that we’re not training Soldiers to go into a battlefield and drop their weapons systems and try to fight like ninjas, that’s not what it’s about” he said.

“It’s about reacting to going into a building and something happens – your weapon malfunctions, or the fight becomes too close and you can’t use your primary or secondary weapons system, - you have the tools through combatives to react to those situations.”

Taylor continued,“It’s not one of those monotonous schools, It in-

Staff Sgt. Sang Truong, foreground, a Modern Army combatives (MACP) instructor with Regional Training Center East, provides instruction to a formation of Reserve Soldiers Sept. 23.

Truong has been with the RTC East combatives school since its inception in 2008 and feels the school could host a Reserve MACP academy in the near future. Photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Matson, 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 19 stills character. I became more confident as an instructor and as a Soldier through this training. I wanted to go out and deploy, and to train other Soldiers in my unit immediately, because I was so motivated from the training.”

The instructors became involved in the program through various means, such as Staff Sgt. Matthew Roth, who works as a civilian police officer in Jackson, N.J., and has been training both police officers and Reserve Soldiers for the last five years.

The instructors say that while the program at Fort Dix has grown, they see greater training opportunities in the future.The instructors said the possibility of implementing an official, full-scale MACP academy for Reserve Soldiers has been discussed by higher headquarters.

“I think a main combatives school for the Army Reserves would be amazing,”Taylor said.“We have acquired about $150,000 worth of gear – gloves, headgear, groin protectors, mits, pads, dummy weapons, blower suits, you name it. We could start fielding an official Reserve academy almost immediately.”

Taylor also said they have changed the curriculum taught at the school based on feedback gained from the battlefield.

“Level one used to be primarily ground grappling,”Taylor explained.

“Now, based on downrange feedback from Soldiers overseas, we restructured the program.There is

more stand-up fighting and some situational based training as well that has been implemented.”

The importance of the training is evident in the Soldiers receiving it. Pvt. David Pena, a truck driver from Company A, 533rd Battalion Support Battalion, served as the class leader for his unit while they received their level one certification.

He said he feels confident he can defend himself should he become disarmed in a combat situation.

He added he gained confidence during a clinch drill earlier in the week where Soldiers needed to take A Reserve Soldier executes a kick during Modern Army combatives (MACP) training Sept. 23rd in the Repunches from the ingional Training Center East combatives room at JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. Photo by Staff structors to simulate Sgt. Ryan C. Matson, 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment gaining a hold on the to keep going. Before this week, I on you, what would you do?” Pena enemy. wouldn’t have volunteered to do said.“If an unarmed enemy jumps “Not everyone had hand-to-hand that.” out on you and grabs you, you need experience with taking punchPena said after going through the to know how to take him out with es to the face,” Pena said.“That training, he now has an appreciayour hands.” showed the confidence of everytion of why combatives is imporIt appeared the instructors had one here; that we were willing to tant to any Soldier. accomplished their mission – to take a couple punches to the face “Troops rely on their weapons, make Reserve Soldiers a better without returning them to get that and the enemy may be right there, fighting force through combatives clinch. Everyone, including myself, and if your weapon were to jam training. was nervous, but we knew we had

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20 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

War Bonds

By Capt. Jennifer K. Cotten 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer

The 95th Infantry Division Association held its 61st reunion August 4-8 in Cambridge, Mass. It’s been almost 66 years since division soldiers liberated Metz, France during World War II, and the bond that was forged all those years ago among these brothers-in-arms is as strong today as it was then.

The men, in their eighties and nineties now, continue to make the trek each year to a new location to meet up with their comrades from across the United States.They sit together and reminisce over their common experiences and speak as if it were only yesterday.

“The 95th’s reunion was an awesome experience for me and my wife Susan. As a Soldier with the 2nd Platoon, I Company, 377th Infantry, I met with my company commanding officer Vince Geiger and two other Soldiers, Ceo and Red. We shared experiences of our military times,” said Lt. Col. (Ret.) Frank Celetano, a first-timer at the reunion.

For William Burke, who was a private first class in E Co, 378th during WWII, Boston was also his first reunion. Burke said,“The reunion brought back so many memories from the war. I didn’t come across anyone else from 378th/E but it was great to meet the men from different companies and regiments who shared the same experiences.”

Since membership in the as-

The crowd gives a warm welcome to Paul Madden and William Burke (privates in the 95th Infantry Division during WWII) as they stand with Boston Red Sox mascot, Wally the Green Monster, during opening ceremonies before the Sox took the field to defeat the Indians, 6-2. Photo courtesy Boston Red Sox

sociation is open to friends and families of the 95th, several veter-

ans brought their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Current soldiers of the 95th Training Division (IET) also attended to get to know the men who are the legacy of the division. And many Soldiers of today can relate to some of the same sacrifices of those veterans of WWII. With so many generations in attendance, the association offered a host of different events to entertain them all. Guests took a trip to the Minute Man National Historical Park where they viewed a film,“The Road to the Revolution,” followed by a historical bus ride through Lexington and Concord.

The following days included Boston Trolley tours, walks along the Freedom Trail and a whale watching tour. Friday and Saturday evenings offered guests dinner and entertainment options.

“One highlight was our I Company table at the banquet where we were joined by Pierre and Francoise [LeClercq] from Metz,” said Celetano.

Another exciting event for guests was a trip to Fenway Park to watch the Boston Red Sox take on the Cleveland Indians. 95th Training Division (IET) Soldiers and members of the Staff Sgt. Andrew Miller Club served as the honorary color guard during the opening ceremonies which honored the WWII veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Burke said,“It was a great honor to represent the division with

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 21 Paul Madden at the Red Sox game.

It was a night to remember and thanks to everyone for all their hard work in putting it together.”

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming to reunions for 61 years, there is no doubt what inspires so many to return year after year and it can best be stated by Paul Madden, a private during WWII in A Co., 379th Regt.

Madden said “I consider the company I was in family.These people are like brothers to me. But these guys you’re with, you sleep with them, you eat with them, you train with them, you go into combat with them and they’re there, you’re there, they’re my family. I feel they’re looking out for me.” (Quoted from Return to the Battlefields The Ninety-Fifth The Iron Men of Metz a film by Davidson Cole, Neal Gold and Adam Graham).

Note: If you or someone you know is interested in joining the 95th Infantry Division Association or just want to learn more about the organization, you can find information on the Web at https://95divassociation.com/.

If you have news from your division to publish in The Griffon, please contact Marty Collins.

704-227-2820 ext. 4087 Next Issue is Spring 2001 Deadline Jan 8, 2011

95th Training Division (IET) Drill Sergeants, from The Staff Sgt. Andrew Miller Club, take the field at Fenway Park as the color guard for the opening ceremonies of the Boston Red Sox vs. Cleveland Indians game on August 5. Photo courtesy Boston Red Sox

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22 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Sliker named top Graduate

By Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

FORT JACKSON, S.C. — Sgt.Toby Sliker, 1st Battalion, 355th Regiment 1st Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) was named the Distinguished Honor Graduate of the United States Army Reserve Drill Sergeant School, Class #006-10 (Option 5) on September 25th, 2010.

“I graduated high school in 2002 and enrolled in college but decided that wasn’t the route for me at the time so I dropped out and worked construction jobs for a few years before I decided to join the military,” said Sliker.

The 26 year old Seneca, Penn. native enlisted in the regular Army in September 2005.

Sliker completed basic training and his advanced individual training, as a Combat Engineer (21B), at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. He then PCS’d to Ft. Hood,Texas and was assigned to the 36th Engineer Brigade.

Serving as a combat engineer Sliker participated in several missions at the National Training Center at Ft. Irwin, Calif., as well as, repairing and rebuilding fences on the US-Mexican border in southern Texas.

“The mission of rebuilding the fences was a lot of fun, it looked like you could drive a car through some of the fences we worked on,” said Sliker.

He then deployed with the 36th Eng. Bde. in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in November 2007.

“I deployed to Mosul, Iraq and we did route clearance for almost a year then I went back to Ft. Hood in 2009,” said Sliker. Before he left active duty service in February 2010 he enlisted in the Army Reserve to become a drill sergeant.

“I had a platoon sergeant that was a drill sergeant and he was probably one of the best leaders I ever had and he was an inspiration to me,” said Sliker.

His first battle assembly in the Army Reserve was March 2010 and his 1st Sgt. did not waste anytime in getting him prepared for his upcoming schools.“I went to three battle assemblies, had my drill sergeant packet and then came here to Ft. Jackson for the Warrior Leader’s Course and then straight into the Drill Sergeant Course,” said Sliker.

He said the course was like going back to basic training and the modules could be daunting.“I know I’m just a sergeant but I do have a little knowledge and experi-

ence and you’re basically an IET Soldier again and that was pretty tough,” said Sliker.

Sliker currently calls San Antonio,Texas home and works in the construction business as well as going to college.“I am going to the University of Texas – San Antonio, taking general education courses and I would love to get into medical school,” he added.

He plans to take a break after he completes his college degree and said he will take some time off to ‘hit Sgt. Toby Sliker, 1st Bn., 355th Regt. 1st Bde, 95th Training Divithe trail’. “In the sion (IET) was named the Distinguished Honor Graduate and middle of trying awarded the Commandant’s Leadership Award, Class #006-10 to get my medical (Option 5) at Ft. Jackson, S.C. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, degree I’ll prob108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs ably want a break ously, probably as much as my unit so I’m going to stressed studying the modules take a year off and will train Solthose are things you can pick up diers,” said Sliker. pretty easily I would stress soldierHe did offer some advice for ing skills and have a good basic potential Drill Sergeant Candiknowledge so you can build on dates on there way to Ft. Jackthem,” said Sliker. son. “Bring bug spray! No seri-

Sgt. Toby Sliker, 1st Bn., 355th Regt. 1st Bde, 95th Training Division (IET) was named the Distinguished Honor Graduate Class #006-10 (Option 5) and Sgt. Amber Jones, 1st Bn., 389th Regt., 4th Bde., 98th Training Division (IET) was named Honor Graduate, Class #006-10 (Option 5) at Ft. Jackson, S.C. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 23

Mud Run!

By Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Frasca, 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET)

SALEM, Va. — It was a beautiful day in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Salem, Va. on Saturday, September 18th- sunny, crisp and clear, a perfect day for a 5K run and a little camaraderie.Ten members of the Headquarters 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) entered the 15th Annual Marine Corps Mud Run at Green Hill Park in Roanoke County, Va. Soldiers and full time staff joined hands and proceeded to jump into the mud together in order to finish as a team.

Two teams, each consisting of two female and three male members stepped up to the challenge.

Building cohesion, morale, and spirit de’ corps was the primary benefit of the event.‘One team, one fight’ was the motto, yet Soldiers understood that the trek up the formidable “Mount Suribachi” would be a difficult task for any individual to make at a runners pace.

“Often Soldiers receive many benefits from the local community such as a free lunch, a little recognition, and sometimes a free ticket to a local baseball game or other public event,” said Chief Warrant Officer John Frasca. He added,“This is a great way to recruit new Sol-

diers into the unit, get Soldiers out into the community, and give back to the many organizations that support local Soldiers. We care about them as much as they care for us.”This is the second event Mr. Frasca orchestrated, and he says that interest and participation is growing.

Ms. Sara Forero, brigade SSA, participated in the event as well. She liked that the event was family orientated with a pollywog run for children ages 12 and under.“Even the kids have an opporMembers of HHC 3rd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) participated in the 15th Annual Marine Corps tunity to join in on good Mud Run at Green Hill Park in Roanoke County, Va. Far Back Row: Sgt. Rodney Goff. Middle Row: Ms. ‘clean’ fun,” said Forero.

Sara Forero, Mr. John Frasca, 1st Lt. Carmen Quesenberry, Staff Sgt. Nathan Dolin, Sgt. 1st Class Robert She added,“The Proceeds Belcher, Spc. James Souther. Front Row: Spc. Marie Summers, Sgt. Wendy Murphy, Staff Sgt. Shane go to the Annual Marine Fletcher. Photo by 1st Sgt. Gary W. Rogers, HHC, 3rd Bde., 98th Training Division (IET) Toys for Tots drive and lovidual names on the front which the event grows, and our presence cal Roanoke Valley Recrewill be even bigger next year,” said ational Programs. It’s a win-win situ- consisted of song names such as “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “Stay Quesenberry. ation where everybody has a great Hungry” and character names such A buzz is already beginning to time and reaps the benefits.” as Gunny Sergeant Hartman and stir at the Salem Reserve Center 1st Lt. Carmen Quesenberry, Private Snowball. about the next years event since assistant S1, developed the team “I like how everyone comes out the majority of participants this names,Twisted Blister and Full wearing costumes and develops year were mainly from the perMuddy Jacket, after the 80’s band, sonnel services (AG Branch).The Twisted Sister and the Oliver Stone innovative team names; it really is Soldiers of Headquarters Company movie “Full Metal Jacket.” Each team a sight to see.This year’s event feahad matching T-shirts with the team tured pink tutus, prom dresses, and will hear the stories for months to even a fake tuxedo team. Every year come. name on the back, and their indi-

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24 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Female Afghan Officer candidates usher in new era

By Staff Sgt. Clinton Atkins USA NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan — Abdul Rahim Wardak, Afghan Minister of Defense, presents a Soldier from the 95th Training Division, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, with a U.S. Army Achievement Medal during an award ceremony, Sept. 22, 2010. Female soldiers from the 95th spent the last several months mentoring Afghan National Army female officers in the instructing of 29 Afghan female officer candidates during 20 weeks of training, which included 8 weeks of basic training and 12 weeks of advanced training in logistics and finance. U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Laura R. McFarlane/Released

KABUL, Afghanistan — Much like the United States in the mid-20th Century, Afghanistan is experiencing changes in the rights afforded to women. Afghan women can now hold jobs previously unavailable to them, such as serving in a position of authority as an officer in the Afghan National Army.

A group of eight U.S. Army women mentors and 29 Afghan female officer candidates are ushering in that change.

In a joint effort between NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan and the Afghan Ministry of Defense, the ANA Female Officers Candidate School opened its doors in April.

Over the past 20 weeks, 29 Afghan women – mostly housewives – have made history.The first class of female officers will graduate Sept.

23 with the candidates serving as finance and logistics officers.

“These women are true pioneers for Afghanistan,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Abbigail San Soucie, FOCS advisor.“I am humbled that I was asked to be a part of this and how these women came forward in this wartorn country.”

Afghan women serving in the military is still highly contentious, according to the FOCS advisors.

“I think it is [a difficult decision for the women] depending on how their families feel.There are still many people who don’t agree with it”” San Soucie said.

French Army Lt. Col. Christian Dugast, FOCS senior mentor and Officer Training Brigade commander, said the road to an unbiased Afghan military is a long one because of societal constraints placed on women in Afghan culture, but it is still a road that must be travelled.

“It is very important to have women in the Army,” Dugast said.

“It’s a way to involve women in their society. It’s very symbolic. It’s very important to show women can do the same as the men.”

The women in OCS feel it’s an honor and their duty to serve their country.

“Eighty percent of my family is in the ANA,” said Khatera Ayoupur, FOCS trainee.“I always wanted to be a part of the ANA and am so proud to wear this uniform. I am 100 percent ready to help my country; I love my country and our people.”

After the first class graduates, the barracks will relocate to Kabul Military Training Center, where a designated facility is already being renovated in order to accommodate up to 150 women.

“My hope for the future is that lots of females come into the ANA,” Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak said.“I hope you will do a good job for them in Kabul and for all of Afghanistan. I am happy you are serving your country and are coming into the Army.

“As the first course, this is a good example for other females,” he said.

U.S. Army Capt. Tamara Gonzales contributed to this article.

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 25

KABUL, Afghanistan — Abdul Rahim Wardak, Afghan Minister of Defense, presents Afghan 2nd Lt. Homira Safian, Afghan National Army Female Officer Candidate School instructor, with a U.S. Army Achievement Medal during an award ceremony, Sept. 22, 2010. Lieutenant Safian received the medal for instructing 29 Afghan female officer candidates during 20 weeks of training, which included 8 weeks of basic training and 12 weeks of advanced training. The advanced training was in logistics and finance. U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Laura R. McFarlane/Released

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26 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Brothers in Arms

By Capt. Chris Whitted, S3 2/377th, 1st Brigade 95th Training Division (Initial Entry Training)

The young private could feel the sweat starting to form on his forehead. His arms began to quiver as he held himself in the front leaning rest position for what seemed like forever. In actuality, it had only been about two minutes since Drill Sergeant Schueth ‘dropped him.’

Look on the bright side the private thought … “At least I’m not having to push.” Of course, the young man was wondering what he had done to catch the indignation of his drill sergeant. He was also a bit confused as to why he had been dropped, told a short time later to get up and asked why he was in the front leaning rest position. He had tried to answer the question, but was cut-off.

A short time later he was dropped again and asked why he had gotten up. Drill Sergeant Schueth told him “assume the position until I get back.” So here he waited, arms and chest muscle’s straining, wondering how much longer he might have to stay in this position. After a couple of minutes the drill sergeant returned and the private was again told to get up.

Drill Sergeant Schueth once more asked “Why are you in the front leaning rest position and who is putting you there?”The private stated,“You did drill sergeant.” Drill Sergeant Schueth looked at the young man incredulously and stated “Pri-

vate, you’re confused.” Of course, this exchange brought on the usual snickers from the unaffected privates in the area.

This scene would play out a couple more times. Even the other privates were starting to get confused. Of course, they were just happy it wasn’t them getting the ‘extra attention.’ It wasn’t until the next day the privates of Bravo Company actually learned the answer to the question “What’s worse than one Drill Sergeant Schueth? Two Drill Sergeant Schueths.”And so the trainees of Bravo Company were introduced to Sgt. First Class Tim Schueth and Sgt. First Class Todd Schueth, drill sergeants with the 2/377th, 1st Brigade, 95th Division.

The brothers were born on May 3, 1966, in Norfolk, Neb. and grew up in a middle class home. Both strived to attend college and eventually the idea of joining the Army began to surface. According to Tim, who is four minutes older than his brother, the two brothers decided to join the Army using the “buddy system” which was a popular program in the 80’s.Tim states,“We decided to join together, but agreed to pick a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) that would provide us training in some kind of technical field; one that would help us find a job after college. We both needed money for college so we felt the Army Reserve would best suit our needs.”

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Todd Schueth re-enlists in the Army Reserve as his twin brother Tim observes. Courtesy Photo

other friend, ventured to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) in October 1985 to enlist and pick their MOS.Tim got held up at one of the MEPS’s medical stations, so Todd and their friend moved forward ahead of him in the process. When Tim eventually caught up with his brother and friend, they had chosen their MOS, signed the paperwork and were waiting for Tim to make his choice.

Tim said,“What MOS did you guys choose?”“You just gotta see the tape,” said Todd and the friend.

The recruiter pushed play on the VCR.Tim proceeded to watch an M113 armored personnel carrier roll through the woods.The carrier stopped, the back end opened up and out jumped scouts. … cavalry scouts. Needless to say,Tim was instantly concerned with how this MOS would help him become an architect.The recruiter told Tim a choice had been made, and if he wanted to stay in the buddy system with his brother, he would have to stay with the choice, otherwise he could go it alone.Tim reluctantly chose the cavalry scout option and their path down a road to training Soldiers began.

The brothers entered basic training at Fort Knox, Ky. early January 1986. From the beginning confusion followed the brothers.Three days into the reception station Tim was accused of being a liar and escorted by a drill sergeant to find out the “truth.”The privates in training were split up into several groups to clean several buildings and when one of the drill sergeants walked in and saw Tim sweeping a floor, a shocked look came across his face as he bellowed to Private Schueth,“What are you doing here?

I told you not to leave the last

building until it was cleaned and how did you get here so fast? I just left you four buildings down!”Tim looked up and said,“Drill sergeant, I do not recall seeing or having that conversation with you.”Well to say that the drill sergeant was angry is quite an understatement, so Tim tried to explain. He told the drill sergeant that he is a twin and that his brother, is the one he must have spoken with. Well that seemed to really incite anger in the drill sergeant. He went on with that famous quip that all drill sergeants seem to use, the one about excuses and their maximum effective range, the detriments of lying and the serious repercussions Tim could face.

Grumbling about privates and their lack of intelligence the drill sergeant grabbed Tim by the arm and said,“You’re coming with me, and we’ll just go talk to this ‘twin’ of yours.”And with that, out the door they went.

The drill sergeant told Tim to get into the vehicle and stated that Tim was the fastest runner he has ever seen to be able to beat him up the hill, into the building, and start sweeping before the drill sergeant could drive there. A minute later they pulled up to another building. As he stepped inside, the drill sergeant said to Tim,“Okay, where’s this twin of yours?”Tim looked around the building at all the privates cleaning and hollered out “Private Schueth post!” One of the privates immediately stopped cleaning looked across the room and hustled over to the drill sergeant standing there. As Todd approached, the drill sergeant lost all composure. Recognizing the approaching private he looked quickly between the two privates and started laughing saying something about thanking his lucky

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 27 stars that he wasn’t going to have to be their drill sergeant.

Upon graduation, the brothers attended their first battle assembly and quickly discovered they belonged to a training brigade that was set up for One Station Unit Training at Fort Knox.The unit composition was drill sergeants and 19D (Armored Cavalry Scout) instructors. At the first opportunity Sgt.Todd Schueth went down the path of becoming a drill sergeant while Sgt.Tim Schueth continued on as a 19D instructor. After several more years of training Soldiers to become scouts,Tim finally followed his brother in becoming a drill sergeant and joining the 2nd Brigade, 95th Division in their mission of training new Soldiers.

During their time as drill sergeants,Tim and Todd had several opportunities to utilize their unique similarities to their advantage — code for challenging privates with insurmountable obstacles.Tim’s favorite memory was at Fort Jackson, S.C. where the brothers’ paths crossed again during an Initial Entry Training (IET) changeover.Tim was getting ready to turn the basic training session over to his brother who had arrived to perform his two weeks of duty.

The privates, yet to see Todd, were told by Tim they were being given a sixty second head start to beat him to formation. As the privates scurried and scampered to get out

of the barracks,Tim walked back into the drill sergeant office, secure in knowing his brother Todd was already on the drill floor awaiting their arrival. Needless to say, the privates believed Drill Sergeant Schueth possessed supernatural powers.

The brothers continued to progress through the enlisted ranks at about the same pace until 2005 when Sgt. First Class Todd Schueth was promoted to master sergeant and became the first sergeant of Bravo Company, 2/377th, 2nd Brigade, 95th Division. Sgt. First Class Tim Schueth transferred to the 561st Regional Support Group in Omaha, Neb. in 2004 in search of his master sergeant rank.Tim eventually earned his promotion and was awarded the rank of master sergeant in early 2006.

Although in different units, both brothers were called to active duty just months apart from each other.

Master Sgt.Tim Schueth was crossleveled out of the 561st Regional Support Group and attached to the 325th Quartermaster Battalion in November 2007 as the non-commissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) of a Tailored Logistical Element in Qatar until April 2009. 1st Sgt. Todd Schueth was called to active duty in January 2008 to be part of the stand-up of an Army Reserve IET battalion at Fort Sill, Okla. until June 2008.

When Master Sgt.Tim Schueth

Master Sgt. Todd Schueth and Master Sgt. Tim Schueth, twin brothers and drill sergeants continue their Army Reserve careers with the 95th Training Division (IET). Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michael Reichwaldt, Army Reserve Career Counselor

came off active duty, he returned to the 561st Regional Support Group only to find the unit deployed.

Wanting to remain gainfully employed and looking for new challenges, he talked with his brother, Todd about finding a new unit.

Todd had the answer for his brother; come back to the 95th Training

Division and work in the S3 section.

So Tim put in his request and transferred back to the 95th in December 2009 where he now serves as the operations NCOIC, while Todd continues to perform duties as the first sergeant for Charlie Company, 2/377th, 1st Brigade, 95th Training Division. Brothers in Arms still.

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28 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

‘Iron Men’ become ‘Iron Professionals’

95th Division Soldiers training America’s newest warriors

By Spc. Joshua Flowers 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

FORT KNOX, Ky. — The training of new Soldiers is one of the most important tasks of any military organization.These individuals are entrusted with the safety and education of the officers and NCOs of tomorrow and the training and guidance they provide may very well mean the difference between life and death for the young soldiers. It is a responsibility few possess or even wish to possess.

So it is only the more significant that this incredible responsibility be placed in the hands of soldiers, who little more than a year ago, wore the uniform only two times a month.

On May 13, 2010, at Fort Knox, Ky., Col. David Thompson, 194th Armored Brigade Commander, passed the colors of the newly activated 5/46th Infantry Battalion to Lt. Col. Jim Fisher, 95th Training Division, 1/354th Battalion Commander, quietly symbolizing the confidence the Army has placed on the professionalism and capabilities of its citizen Soldiers.

“There is no doubt these drill discipline and how to react to an bat,” Staff Sgt. Blake Skola, Drill Sersergeants will ensure that each IET IED (Improvised Explosive Device) geant, Alpha Co., said.“That [com(Initial Entry Training) soldier bat] patch goes a long way will be prepared to confront sometimes.” the challenges of the U.S. Army Reflecting the hard work in wartime, as well as peace and commitment that he time,” Command Sgt. Maj. Paul preaches to his soldiers, SkoHill, 5/46th Battalion Comla was recently named the mand Sergeant Major said.

1/46th’s top “Iron Professional” “This unit is truly blessed to after finishing a grueling physihave such fine outstanding solcal contest which matched him diers assigned to fulfill the misagainst the best Soldiers from sion that has been given to us.” across the 46th Infantry DiviCombining elements of the sion.The standards for the com95th Training Division’s 1st petition require soldiers to earn and 3rd Brigades, the 5/46th max scores in all APFT events at acts as a fully functioning basic the most difficult age scale levtraining unit taking trainees el.To further increase difficulty, through the rigorous ninestandard recovery time was week course that will ultimate- Col. David Thompson (right), commander of the slashed in half for all events.

194th Armor Brigade, passes the colors to Lt. Col. Jim ly change them from civilians Pull-ups and dips were also part Fisher (left), commander of 5th Battalion 46th Infaninto true Soldiers. Learning of testing but had no minimum try. Photo courtesy of 5/46th Infantry Battalion Army customs and courtesies, standard. firing and maintaining an M-16, Out of a possible 800 total hand to hand combat and warrior attack. Many of the drill sergeants at points, Skola scored a near perfect leadership skills are a few brief the 5/46th are themselves veterans 799, just seconds away on the run examples of the skills these future of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghani- portion of the competition. warriors will acquire during their stan and sometimes use their expe“I was pretty satisfied with the time in basic training. rience as a training aide for the IET result,” he said.“Given the limited In keeping with current operasoldiers. amount of time I had to really train tions in theater, IET soldiers also “The privates tend to listen a [for the event], I thought I did well.” learn more specialized tasks such little better to a guy who’s actually The battalion has also extended as security and crowd dispersion been there and experienced comits hands into the local community

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 29 with Soldiers participating in a number of charitable events from Army wide charities like the Combined Federal Campaign to select “fund runs,” such as the Susan Komen Race for the Cure. Many Soldiers have taken leadership roles in the community events such as Sgt. 1st Class Pedro Ochoa, 5/46th

Battalion S2 NCOIC, who recently organized a canned-food drive in partnership with Feeding America.

Sgt. Keith Schonherr, 5/46th Battalion S1, has led the battalion’s efforts in the Ft. Knox Make a Difference Day by gathering donations of various items in support of deployed soldiers.

Since the end of September, the 5/46th has graduated more than 900 Soldiers from basic training and that number will be amplified even more in the coming months with a considerable portion of Fort Knox’s Armored Division moving south to Fort Benning, Ga. For the drill sergeants, a

string of long, sleepless days filled with classes, road marches and weapons exercises lay ahead of them, but many will tell you this is what they live for. Several have even elected to stay past their initial tour of duty to continue the mission of training America’s future fighting men.

Alpha Company drill sergeants demonstrate the rope climb event during Phase 2 of Initial Entry Training. Photo courtesy of 5/46th Infantry Battalion

30 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2010

An original â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Iron Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Roanokeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stan Kummer receives French Legion of Honor

By Duncan Adams Story and photos courtesy of The Roanoke Times

ROANOKE, Va. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Stan Kummer, 90, of Roanoke received the French Legion of Honor on Saturday during a ceremony at the home of his daughter, Babs Smith . His grandson, Marshall Lauck of Atlanta, described his grandfather as a man of principle, integrity and â&#x20AC;&#x153;near boundless optimism.â&#x20AC;?

Stan Kummer sensed the bullets burning by as he and other infantry prepared to cross open ground in an attack on German soldiers occupying a fort near the French city of Metz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You could hear them â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pzsst, pzsstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201D; coming beside you,â&#x20AC;? Kummer recalled.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was cold and I was wearing one of those heavy GI overcoats.

We had about 200 to 300 yards from the edge of the woods up to the forts.The damn area was as flat as a tabletop, so the Germans had field of fire all over the place. We lost almost one whole company getting up there, going through a minefield.â&#x20AC;?

Before the assault began, Kummer shed the burdensome coat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think a Frenchman is still wearing it,â&#x20AC;? he said, smiling.

In November 1944, Baltimore native Stan Kummer was 25 years old, a battalion operations officer, and among the soldiers in the 1st Battalion of the 379th Regiment, part of the 3rd Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 95th Infantry Division.The 1st Battalion helped

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capture heavily fortified German strongholds near Metz and were among the troops from the 95th Division who became known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iron Men of Metz.â&#x20AC;?

On Saturday, Kummer was 90 years old when, in recognition of his role in Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s liberation from Nazi occupation, he received Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest decoration -- the Legion of Honor, class of Chevalier.

Nicole Yancey, honorary consul of France for Virginia, presented the decoration during a ceremony at the Roanoke home of one of Stan and Susan Kummerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three daughters. Family crowded the room. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your magnificent behavior under fire and your courage during extremely dangerous combat helped without a doubt the victory of the Allied forces,â&#x20AC;?

Yancey said.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marching ďŹ reâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 379th Regiment, moved quickly across the exposed ground toward

the German-occupied fort, which was encircled by barbed wire and trenches.

Earlier, Gen. George Patton, bellicose commander of the 3rd Army, had ordered that the assault proceed with â&#x20AC;&#x153;marching fireâ&#x20AC;? -- which meant advancing without stopping and firing every two or three paces to force enemy soldiers to keep their heads down.

Patton wrote that marching fire builds confidence because infantrymen â&#x20AC;&#x153;are doing something and are not sitting like a duck in a bathtub being shot at.â&#x20AC;?

The soldiers captured the fort, one of seven the GIs had nicknamed â&#x20AC;&#x153;the seven dwarfs.â&#x20AC;? But larger forts held out for a time and German counterattacks cut off the 1st Battalion for about four days, Kummer said.â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d get a counterattack every afternoon about 4 oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock.

We werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t at full strength because weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d lost most of a company in the minefield. But we had enough of us

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 31 left to fight off the counterattacks until they got tired of doing it.”

Small planes resupplied the troops with crates of rations, ammunition and water kicked from the low-flying aircraft.“We had about 20 Polish prisoners and one German officer. We sent them out to pick up the [crates] so we wouldn’t get shot doing it.”

Finally, with cover from artillery fire, the battalion broke out and the holdout forts surrendered.The 95th Division joined the push toward the Saar River and Siegfried Line.

Kummer would not get there with them.

A severed nerve Stan Kummer’s decorations included the Bronze Star -- “for meritorious service in ground combat against the armed enemy during WWII in the European-African-Middle East theater of operation” -- and the Purple Heart.

The latter resulted from a wound suffered during a Jeep accident.

“We were on the way back to division headquarters after we had gotten through Metz and the Maginot Line,” Kummer said.“It was the Jeep driver, the battalion commander and myself in the Jeep.”

Traveling without lights, the Jeep “made a turn in the road and hit a tremendous hole,” Kummer said.

“It could have been made by an artillery shell or an anti-tank mine. I don’t know which. I was sitting in the back and had my carbine just across my knee.The carbine flew up in the air and it must have hit the side of the Jeep, must have hit something hard like steel.”

The .30-caliber rifle discharged.

A bullet passed through Kummer’s right arm below the elbow, severing the ulnar nerve. He lost feeling in the hand and, as a result, could no longer serve in combat. He spent more than a year undergoing

treatment at Kennedy General Hospital in Memphis,Tenn.

Before Saturday’s ceremony, Kummer said he was most proud of his Combat Infantryman Badge “because you ain’t getting that thing unless you were almost shaking hands with them [the enemy].”

counting degree.

After Kummer’s induction into the Army, he married Susan Rinehart Kummer in 1942. She died in October 2008. Recently, when Stan Kummer spoke of her, his eyes brimmed with tears.

coach and truly enjoyed interacting with his players. Underneath a tough exterior was a man of solid gold,” Hirst said.“I always, and I mean always, looked forward to being around him.”

‘Coach’

Early years

Many Roanokers of a certain age remember Kummer from his years of coaching recreational sports -basketball, football and swimming -an era during which he and Bill Andrews coached hundreds of young people.

Kummer pinned nicknames on many players.

David Hirst, now 56, is a son of the late Julian Hirst, who was Roanoke city manager in the early 1970s. Kummer called David Hirst “Mayor.”

“You could tell he loved being a

On Saturday, former U.S. Marine Capt. Marshall Lauck, Kummer’s grandson, described his grandfather as a man of principle, integrity and “near boundless optimism.”

Kummer quipped,“I wonder what grandfather he’s talking about.”

But he turned serious after receiving the Legion of Honor. Kummer’s voice caught as he expressed his desire to share the honor with all the combat infantrymen with whom he had served.

News researcher Belinda Harris contributed to this report.

Born in August 1919, Stanley Truman Kummer was one of Henry and Marie Kurtz Kummer’s 12 children. Marie Kummer died when Stan was 4 or 5 years old. His father suffered a broken back in a railroad injury and was unable to care for a dozen children. Kummer was 7 years old when he, along with one brother and sister, went to live in an orphanage, where he remained through high school.

In 1940, he graduated from the University of Maryland with an ac-

Humor and humility

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32 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Mobilized Soldier aids in rescue

By Cpt. Dale McCurdy and Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill

Staff Sgt. Daniel Windle stands in the location where he found the injured female. Photo

by Capt. Dale McCurdy, 5th Battalion, 46th Infantry

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started up the steep trail, Windle observed them having trouble with their footing. He followed them 5th Battalion 46th Infantry and assisted by placing his foot beOn September 21st 2010, Staff hind the last rescue workers foot to Sgt. Daniel Windle, a mobilized keep him from slipping.

Army Reserve Soldier from 1st Approximately 50 feet from Battalion, 354th BCT, 95th Trainthe top of the hill, the last rescue ing Division (IET) located in Tulsa, worker fell and injured his knee.

Okla. and now serving with the 5th Windle took his place and assisted Battalion 46th Infantry, aided in the the other rescue workers carryrescue of an injured woman at the ing the stretcher all the way to the Bridges to the Past Historical Walkambulance waiting at the top of ing Trail at Fort Knox, Ky. the hill. After the victim was transWindle was visiting the trail with ported to the hospital, Windle again his family and was the first rewent back down to the bottom of sponder to render aid to a woman the falls and assisted the emergency who had fallen over 40 feet.“I was rescue workers recover their equipat the top of a waterfall and I heard ment by carrying some of it back a loud thump. I ran to the edge of up to the top of the hill. the cliff and saw a female lying in According to Ft. Knox Fire Chief the rocks at the bottom of the falls,” Marvin Gunderson, Windle assisted said Windle. prior to their arrival in basic paWindle gave his cell phone to his tient stabilization and shock assessbrother and immediately scaled the ment. Windle also helped keep the cliff to where the female was laying. patient calm prior to their arrival.

Upon his arrival he assessed the feGunderson said that Windle did male and found her breathing to be great, better than most in that situirregular and she was unconscious. ation.

Windle communicated the condiChief Gunderson, in an interview tion of the female to his brother to with 5th Battalion 46th Infantry relay to the 911 operator. Windle Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill, stated immediately started using his Army “Your Soldier did really great. His training of evaluating a casualty. He quick call to 911 with accurate inidentified a possible head injury formation was the start to saving and stabilized her head until the the lady’s life.” emergency rescue team arrived on Gunderson stated because of the scene. It wasn’t until the arrival Windle’s actions, rescue elements of the emergency rescue teams did were able to get on the scene, treat, the women start opening her eyes rescue and evacuate the patient and become more aware of what within approximately one hour of had happened. her falling. Chief Gunderson added Windle assisted the emergency this was remarkable as this was a rescue team by holding an IV bag complicated rescue and removal. and placing the victim on a stretchWindle was award the Army er. As the emergency rescue team Achievement Medal for his meritorious acts by Lt. Col. James Fisher, Battalion Commander of 5-46.

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 33

Army leaders at Family Forum promise to continue improving programs

By Elizabeth Collins

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Oct. 26, 2010) — Proving that they’re the toughest members of the Army, spouses and Family Readiness Group Leaders hammered the secretary of the Army, the chief of staff and other top leaders with questions, concerns and compliments Monday.

“In order to be effective, we have to make sure that we are taking care of those things that the Soldier truly cares about,” Secretary of the Army John McHugh told the two standing-room only crowds at the first Family Forum of the Association of the United States Army’s Annual Meeting and Exposition.

“One of the first things every Soldier brings up, is how much they care about, how concerned they are with the welfare of those loved ones they left behind, their spouses, their Family members,” McHugh said.“We view this as a moral responsibility. As part of the Army Family, we in leadership owe you the kinds of programs and initiatives that take care of your Soldiers, but also take care of you.... But...I know that for all of our good efforts, sometimes we come short.”

It fell to Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., who spoke following his wife Sheila and the secretary -- who he referred to as his “two bosses” -- to find out exactly what is and isn’t working from the hundreds of Family members at the forum by conducting the third annual vote on the Army Family Covenant, giving both sides a rare opportunity for total frankness.

“I’m not going to stand up here and tell you all the great things we’ve done under the Army Family Covenant. I need to understand how it’s impacting on you all,” he said, adding that the current spending level of $1.7 billion on Family programs will be sustained over the next five-year spending plan, but that Family members can help identify redundancies in those programs, so that the money can be used even more effectively,“in programs we really need.”

The goal he announced a few years ago of standardizing Family programs across installations received mixed reviews (mostly good-natured nays) from the audience, but was an improvement over last year’s vote, while Army OneSource and Family Readiness Support Assistance were wildly cheered and applauded.

Access to quality health care was both booed and cheered, and seemed to vary by installation, as did respite care for exceptional Family members, housing and education. One mother explained that the quality of high schools near installations was especially bad, an issue the general said the Army was working on closely with state and local government officials. He

pointed out that millions have been spent on child care, but the mothers present mostly booed that as well.

“OK, I can hardly wait for the last one. Expanding education employment opportunities for Family members? Actually, that was a pleasant surprise,” he said after receiving a mixed reaction, referring to the drumming he expected to get for changes to Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts, commonly known as MyCAA, a program that provides job training funding for spouses.To stay solvent, it recently had to drastically limit eligibility.

During the question and answer period following his remarks, another spouse had a concern about whether instead of receiving preference, spouses were actually being discriminated against in the Department of the Army civilian hiring

process, and the chief immediately responded by saying an inspector general investigation may be in order.

“We will keep working on this...

We think we’ve made progress, but you never stop, and your feedback is very important...The only way that we can fix things, is to keep shining a spotlight on them, and you’re our individual spotlights out there... We will maintain our commitment to Army Families,” he vowed.

That commitment has been reaffirmed in the past year, both he and Mrs. Casey pointed out, explaining that they experienced a deployment from a new perspective -- as parents, when their son Ryan deployed to Afghanistan.

“I’ll tell you that his deployment gave me a totally new perspective and new education, not only as a

mother, but as the mother-in-law of a military spouse and a grandmother to two wonderful military children,” said Mrs. Casey, who, as a veteran military spouse, has watched her husband deploy many times.“It was terrifying that I was no longer in a position to do the most important job of a parent -- protect my child. And at the same time, his deployment put our Family right in the center of the complex challenges that we all face, so we found comfort tapping into the Army community, for his children, for his spouse and for our entire Family.

“And it also reinforced something that I’ve always known to be true: finding balance, and making room for you in your own life is essential for everyone, and especially essential for military spouses. In this way, we can be there for our spouses and our Families.”

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34 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Zimmerman secures Distinguished Honor Graduate title

By Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins

once he completed his initial military commitment.

“No one in my family had a lot of money or college education so this was a good way to get out of the small town I was in and get some money for college, both the undergraduate and the veterinarian medicine program (DVM),” said Zimmerman.

was deployed to Afghanistan in December of that year.

After spending six months in the mountains near Kandahar Air Field FORT KNOX, Ky. — Staff Sgt. he re-deployed to Ft. Bragg.“I had Aaron Zimmerman was named Disa little time off before we headed tinguished Honor Graduate of the back into the fi eld for more trainUnited States Army Reserve School ing,” said Zimmerman.

As a member Drill Sergeant School Class 007-10, of quick deployment unit he was Option 5 at Ft. Knox, Ky., on August tagged for another combat mission, 14, from a field of over 60 this time to Camp Falcon, Iraq Drill Sergeant Candidates. in January 2004.

Although he now has a A little over a year later in “Brown Round” to call his March 2005, he was deployed own, he will quickly tell you to Camp Tillman, Afghanistan what his true passion is and near the Pakistani border to that is providing care for assist Special Forces and their those who cannot speak for mission.

“We were marching themselves. in the mountains, it was a lot Growing up in Peoria, Ill., of conventional fighting being Zimmerman, 27, had a vast arright on the Pakistan border ray of animals he called pets: we got a lot of groups of 20 dogs, lizards, hedgehogs, frogs, or 30 guys or more the bigrats, snakes and cats. “I really gest we saw was a group of like Science, Anatomy and 70,” said Zimmerman.

Physiology and I’ve always After three combat deliked animals,” said Zimmerployments in four years he man. left active duty in May 2006 Zimmerman added he has and moved to Madison, Wis., volunteered or had a paying where he worked for a year to job since he was ten-years-old. gain his residency.

“I wanted “I was a trail guide at Wildlife to be a Veterinarian and dePrairie Park and I watched ployment after deployment the Discovery Channel a lot Staff Sgt. Aaron Zimmerman was named Distinguished didn’t leave me much of a when I was a kid so I memoHonor Graduate of the United States Army Reserve life,” added Zimmerman. rized a lot a things about the School Drill Sergeant School Class 007-10, Option 5 at Ft. Zimmerman learned about animals like their life spans, Knox, Ky., on August 14, from a field of over 60 Drill Serthe USAR Drill Sergeant progeant Candidates.

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, weights, how high they could gram when he left active duty 108th Training Command (IET) Public Aff airs. jump and what they ate.” but there were no available Wildlife Prairie State Park is positions and he decided to an Illinois state park located He shipped off to basic training join the IRR (Inactive Ready Rein Peoria County, Ill; the massive after graduating high school and serve). park consists of wildlife animals He enrolled at the University of mostly native to Illinois and was es- completed his Airborne Infantry, One Station Unit Training (OSUT) Wisconsin-Madison majoring in tablished in the late 1960’s. at Ft. Benning, Ga., fourteen weeks Biology in 2007.

Later that year he In high school Zimmerman knew later. called a recruiter to check out the he wanted to be a veterinarian.

Arriving at Ft. Bragg, N.C., in possibilities of joining a USAR Drill Coming from a modest background, May 2002 he was assigned to the Sergeant unit.

There were some he decided joining the military would help him achieve his goal by 82nd Airborne Division but did not open positions in Neenah, Wis. and he enlisted in the Army Reserve in providing him the funds for college spend much time there before he 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

July 2007 for six years.

“I gained a lot of knowledge on active duty and had a lot of good leaders. I felt like it was a waste to not share some of the stuff I’d been through, so I thought I would come back in and see how I could help,” said Zimmerman.

He stated the USAR Drill Sergeant School did pose some challenges for him but not what one would usually suspect.The hardest part of the course for Zimmerman was dealing with the heat and humidity at Ft. Knox, Ky. “It’s killer…once you put on your IBA and the long hours the first couple of weeks getting up at 4:15 or 4:30 in the morning and getting off at 8:00 or 8:30 or 9:00 at night, sometimes. That wears on you after a couple of weeks,” he said.

His unit, Delta Company, 3rd Battalion, 339th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET), made it clear he would have to be familiar with training modules.“There is a whole book of modules there are three different ways to teach stuff, step by step, by the numbers, or the talk through and you have to do one of each of those types, you have to learn the style,” said Zimmerman.

He added he was amazed some potential candidates were not mentally prepared to act like or be a Drill Sergeant.“We had a few people who left early on because they just weren’t meant to be a Drill Sergeant and I was kind of surprised that some people came here and their expectations were that it would be easy.”

Zimmerman said he has a lot of respect for the cadre at the Drill Sergeant School because it is probably the hardest job in the world to teach NCO’s. “We all know it all, we’ve all been in the military and some of us are the same rank. Some of us have combat patches where some of the Drill Sergeant Leaders don’t and that can play into it for some of the students,” he added.

Zimmerman did offer some advice for future Drill Sergeant Candidates.“Know at least one type of each module and memorize it so you can do it whenever you need to in front of people or not, be comfortable speaking in front of people, be able to pass your PT test with 70 percent even on a bad day and every time you get the opportunity to be in a leadership position here do it and take it seriously, take it as a chance to get in front because the next time you get a chance to be in front in may be in front of 60 privates, so make your mistakes here and learn from them,” he said.

Now that he has completed his USAR Drill Sergeant training it is time to get back to work as a student at the University of WisconsinMadison.“For the last two years I’ve been managing a dairy herd for the school, they have about a 50 milk-

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 35 ing cow dairy herd,” said Zimmerman.

Theresa, his girlfriend, who is also training to be Veterinarian, took over managing the herd when Zimmerman attended the Drill Sergeant School.

“She’s no slacker, she makes me look like a slacker, and she has two bachelor degrees one in music and one in German from a music conservatory and she has a master’s degree in Bacteriology. She holds down three jobs, takes care of two beagles, a gerbil, a guinea pig, a box turtle and my tarantula while I was here,” said Zimmerman.

Zimmerman is looking forward to the future.“I’ll continue to drill with my unit and I am going to check in with my local ROTC unit to see if they need help training anyone and during the summer I’ll hit the trail at Ft. Knox,” he added.

One thing is certain; he will always have his “Brown Round” and completed his undergraduate studies in Biology in three years. Additionally, he has been accepted into the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Veterinary Program and will continue to care for those Sgt. Mitchell Bass, Randall L. Embry Leadership Award, Staff Sgt. Aaron Zimmerman, Distinguished Honor Graduate, and Sgt. Ryan Hamilton, Honor Graduate, of the United States Army Reserve School Drill Sergeant School Class 007-10, Option 5, Ft. Knox, Ky. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty who cannot speak for themselves: dogs, lizards, cows and A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs tarantulas, just to name a few.

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36 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Army considering IRR with no involuntary deployments

By Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Oct. 26, 2010) — The Army Reserve is undergoing a pilot program with some Inactive Ready Reserve troops to ensure that both the needs of the Soldiers and the Army are better met.

Chief of the Army Reserve Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz explained Tuesday that the Army is currently considering the possibility of creating a pool of Soldiers who would be able to stay in the IRR without the fear of being deployed -- they could volunteer for missions, but it would be their choice.

During a forum at the 2010 Association of the U.S. Army Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., Stultz explained that the Reserve is still out of balance, and while recruiting is high, leaders are looking for ways to keep highly-qualified Soldiers in

the Reserve.

“The challenge is, this is not going to change,” Stultz said of the uncertainty now for both activeduty and Reserve Soldiers and their Families regarding deployments.

Stultz explained that a reversion back to a strategic rather than operational Reserve component is unlikely, and there are several studies being conducted to determine what the future role of Reserve troops will be.

“The Army has no choice but to include the Reserve as part of the operational force,” he said.

Stultz explained that many foreign militaries are interested in how the U.S. uses its Reserve troops and have personally asked him for guidance.

“As we’ve been successful over the past few years transforming the Reserve into an operational force,

it’s gotten international attention,” he said.“People around the world are paying attention to what we’re doing.”

However, with that success comes the knowledge that many Reserve and National Guard Soldiers are leaving the Army after their obligated service agreements expire because they have lives outside of the Army and those lives are often put on hold in lieu of deployments.

“We have a lot of Soldiers who left the Reserve because they realized it wasn’t what they signed up for,” he said.

Stultz gave the example of Army Reserve doctors who have put private practices on hold, or couples who have waited to have children until after leaving the Army because of the uncertainty of deployments.

Yet those are the same Soldiers

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whom Stultz would like to see retained.

He also spoke of the desire to shorten Reserve deployments to nine months overseas, totaling 12 months away from home, including training.

The Army Reserve currently has about 20,000 deployed Soldiers overseas and an additional 10,000 troops activated stateside.

Commentary: It takes strength to ask for help

By Maureen Rose

FORT KNOX, Ky. (Army News Service, Sept. 14, 2010) — Watching Soldiers carry the coffin of a warrior who has been killed in action is a tough story to cover.

Seeing a uniformed brother struggle to maintain his professional composure as he renders a salute, then follows the coffin to its destination, makes my throat tighten with emotion.

Hearing the sobs of a bereaved mother starts the tears down my own face.

It’s a fairly predictable sequence of events, but the predictability doesn’t make it any easier to observe.The grief that comes with burying a child is absolutely unimaginable for me, the mother of three.

But I suspect that at some point, the bereaved will feel a sense of pride.

Pride that the Soldier gave his life for a worthwhile cause -- he died honorably, making a sacrifice that would make a difference for others.

Unfortunately, there is another kind of death that offers no pride to balance out the grief in the ultimate scale of justice: Suicide.

It’s a word we’re hearing more and more in the armed forces.

Unfortunately, there are statistics to prove it’s happening more often among all the uniformed services.

Suicide speaks of painful burdens borne by those who’ve ended their own lives and perhaps even more pain for those loved ones who will ask themselves “why?” every day for the rest of their lives.

They’ll ask,“What could I have done?” or “Why didn’t I see the signs?”“Why was I so afraid to say something?” or “Why didn’t I listen longer?”“Why didn’t I take them seriously?”“Why did I rely on an impersonal professional who didn’t know my kid like I did?” (see COMMENTARY page 41)

Commentary:

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 37

Reducing your out of pocket expenses

By Lt. Col. Christopher Black

Mr. D.Todd Blanton is one of these civil mined general managers Like everyone else, I am alwho identified a ways looking for a good deal and need within the ways to save a buck. As an Army Charlotte miliReservist,for many years I had to tary community commute over four hours to batand established a tle assemble on my own dime. It policy significantly could get expensive considering reducing the cost costs for hotels, gas, and meals of lodging for Solfor a weekend battle assembly. diers of the 108th To reduce the amount of money Training Command I took out of my own pocket I (IET). In apprecialearned who provided the best tion, for his civil deals on lodging and meals.This mindedness and was before 9/11 so there was his organizations not the current patriotic fever selfless service to that exists today supporting the 108th Trainservice members with reduced ing Command, his lodging fees and other discounts. establishment was Several years ago, Army Represented with serve leadership identified the a Certificate of need to assist Soldiers with lodgAppreciation by ing and established the Lodging Assistant Comin Kind Program. Again, the key mander – Strateto using this program is notifygic Initiatives Col. ing your unit leadership.This Karl Voigt, 108th program is administered at the Training Command battalion level utilizing the units Mr. Todd Blanton, general manager, Wingate of Charlotte Wyndam , off Tyvola Road, being presented with a (IET).These are just Government Purchase Card Certificate of Appreciation by Assistant Commander – Strategic Initiatives Col. Karl Voigt, 108th Training Coma few examples (GPC) when possible. Unit command (IET) for exceptional care and support of the Soldiers of the 108th Training Command (IET). Photo by Lt. Col. of ways to reduce manders will brief Soldiers on Christopher Black, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs your out of pockthe program and obtain a Stateet espenses. Most erally, you discover these estabdiscounts go unused because serment of Understanding signed communities and corporations are lishments in your local area when vice members, including retirees, by the Soldier. Lodging-in-Kind civic minded and show their supyou eat lunch or dinner in uniform neglect to ask for them when they (LIK) is designed to assist majors port for service members with disand your bill is less than expected are checking out.These discounts and below; chief warrant officers or run down to your local home are generally driven by franchise or counts and salute troop programs.

2 and below and master sergeants So maintain your situational awareimprovement center to pick up corporate policies or civil minded and below. some supplies for a project.These general managers who are connect- ness and capitalize on discounts Additionally, home improvement and deals by being asking for them. discounts can range from 10 pered with the need to support local stores and restaurants offer discent to 50 percent. Many potential counts to service members. Genmilitary personnel and units.

108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs Officer

38 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Obituary: Lt. Col. Robert Zimmerman ed guidance and technical knowledge to assist the 108th Training Division (IT) in its transformation to command level. He was instrumental in establishing an action plan to align two divisions.This plan included the down-tracing of IT equipment, security, and realignment of personnel. He performed duties as Special Project Officer for Information Management for a 6000- Soldier command that was dispersed over 70 locations.

As a civilian, Zimmerman exemplified strong work ethics instilled in him by his grandfather at an early age. He worked hard in middle management for several manufacturing companies. However, being the “dreamer” that he was, he had a vision of becoming an entrepreneur. On a Wednesday night in 1996 after an inspired message at his hometown church, Zimmerman made plans to start his own business. In 1998, he took a leap of faith and started a private transportation business – Zimco Transportation Services, Inc., with one van and one driver. Over the years, the business grew to its current administrative staff of 20, which include professional vehicle operators and a fleet of 23 vehicles.

The 108th Training Command, G6 Directorate salutes the late Lt. Col. Robert Leroy Zimmerman and will forever cherish the memories and contributions he made to protect the rights and freedom of the United States of America.

Courtesy of 108th Training Command (IET), G-6

The 108th Training Command (IET), G6 Directorate, mourns the loss of Lt. Col. Robert L. Zimmerman. Zimmerman passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer. Zimmerman had a military career spanning 33 years.

A celebration of his life and memory was held Thursday, September 16, 2010 at Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church in his hometown of Sumter, S.C. His body was laid to rest at the Florence National Cemetery in Florence, S.C. with full military honors. Zimmerman was married to Mary Lawrence Zimmerman, and he was also a devoted father of two daughters, Rachael and Mackenzie and one son, Robert Lawrence.

He was a graduate of Lake City High School in Lake City, S.C. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the military at the age of seventeen. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Benedict College and Master’s Degree from Troy State University. Zimmerman began his military career as a junior officer on active duty at Ft. Benning, Ga. During his 2006-2007 tour in Iraq, he served as a Military Advisor G3 and took his team to the Iraq Military Academy at Rustimyiah (MAR). Zimmerman’s final mission was as Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, G6 for the 108th Training Command (IET) where he served in this position for six years. Under his leadership, he provid-

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 39

Chaplains Corner...

By Chaplain (Maj.) Michael DuCharme 108th Training Command (IET)

As a Chaplain, I am asked certain questions on a regular basis. Questions such as,“How can I know the will of God for my life?”Admittedly, this is a question I have often asked myself, but I’ve come across two passages from the Bible where God provides an answer through two men’s lives. One is from the Old Testament Book of Jonah.You remember Jonah; the guy swallowed by a fish, remains in its belly three days and ultimately is spit out on the beach? Well, Jonah got himself into that predicament because God told him to do a specific mission (God’s will), and he didn’t like that option so he chose to catch a ship headed in the opposite direction of where he was asked to go. In the course of that voyage, the ship encountered stormy weather.

Over in the New Testament Book of Acts (Chapter 23), a preacher named Paul is being sent to Rome to stand trial before the emperor for publicly declaring what Jesus had revealed to him about God. God had previously told Paul in a vision that he would carry His gospel to Rome (God’s will). Paul is being sent to Rome as a prisoner aboard a ship that encountered stormy weather.

From the lives of both these men we see God revealing His will with two very different human responses: one rejects and the other embraces. Another interesting point is that both are traveling by ship when they encounter life threatening storms capable of destroying both the vessels and their occupants and both are stranded at sea.

Without going into greater detail

on these narratives, I want you to see my point as it relates to Jonah and Paul understanding God’s will in their lives.

First, you can’t judge God’s will by the circumstance at hand.

Both Jonah and Paul were shipwrecked at sea. However, one was acting in obedience and the other in disobedience to God’s will. For us, that equates to not judging our being or not being in the will of God

based upon our current situation.

The idea that “things are going my way equals being where God wants me to be,” versus “I am in a difficult circumstance so I am not where God wants me to be” is not biblically correct. Second, and of even more importance, the ultimate conclusion in each of these men’s lives is that God’s will was accomplished.

In the end, both Jonah and Paul did exactly what God had called each of them to do - only Jonah took a detour, while Paul chose the direct route.

We tend to place too much priority on striving to discover God’s will on our own.The reality is that God’s will is accomplished primarily by His work in our lives, not our own ingenuity. It is freeing to know He is the One who initiates and we simply need to respond. So the next time that question comes to mind, turn it into a statement of thanks: “Lord, thanks that I don’t have to strive to figure out what you will me to do. Rather, help me to see what you are calling me to do today and I trust that the rest will be revealed and accomplished as you see fit.” Following this course will bring direction even in the midst of life’s storms just as it ultimately did for Jonah and Paul.

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 41

Mobilized Soldiers Race for the Cure Cpt. Dale McCurdy 5th Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment, S-1

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Mobilized Soldiers of the 95th Training Division (IET) participated in the Komen Race for the Cure event held October 9 in Louisville, Ky. “As Citizen Soldiers we have a strong commitment to give back to our community – both our home communities and our adopted communities while mobilized.” said Maj. Phillip Taylor, Executive Officer of

Commentary (Continued from page 36)

The stream of guilt-laden questions will continue to flow -- sometimes in a torrent, other times barely a trickle -- but never dry up.

I’ve interviewed several people whose loved ones have ended their own lives.The circumstances surrounding the deaths and the victims vary widely, but there is a common thread among those left behind.

They all said they would never be able to “recover” from the grief; they would never stop asking why, and they would never forget their child, sister, or brother.

They all felt they could have and would have done more if they had only understood the gravity of the symptoms being displayed.They each said they should have schooled themselves to recognize the signs of depression and suicide.

As a parent observing their grief — even those who are now a decade away from the awful day — I swore an oath that I will not make the mistake they made. I will learn and I will listen so I never have to own the kind of grief and guilt they share.

I have never marched onto a battlefield or held a weapon in combat, but I’m convinced that the toughest wars are waged in our minds.

The strength it takes to reach out for help is a different kind of courage, but it’s still courage.

Please don’t cast your loved ones into that heart-wrenching tide of grief.Tell someone -your battle buddy, your platoon sergeant, or yes, maybe even your mom -- but talk to someone if you’re in trouble.

Don’t wait until depression pulls you under. You think you’re Army strong? Prove it!

Get help!

(Maureen Rose is the associate editor of the Turret newspaper at Fort Knox, Ky., and she wrote this commentary for Suicide Prevention Month.)

5th Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment.

According to the Komen Louisville website, the Komen Race for the Cure is the largest series of 5K runs/fitness walks in the world, with well over one million participants since 2005.The Race for the Cure series raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer and celebrates breast cancer survivorship. The Komen Louisville Race for the Cure was held at Waterfront Park in downtown Louisville.

“It’s a celebration to honor survivors and a time to remember those who have lost the battle with breast cancer. It is a safe, fun-filled event with music, food and opportunities to learn more about breast cancer and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.” said Maj. Gen. (retired) Rob-

ert Silverthorn Jr, President of the Komen Louisville Board of Directors and former Commanding General of the 95th Training Division.

The team raised one thousand dollars with most of the support coming from fellow Soldiers of the battalion. The team was also running in support of the battalion’s own breast cancer survivor, Sgt. 1st Class Bonnie Odom. Odom is a nine-year survivor of breast cancer and serves as the battalion S4 NCOIC. The Soldiers are members of 5th Battalion 46th Infantry Regiment, a subordinate unit of the 194th Armor Brigade on Fort Knox, Ky. and are mobilized to conduct basic combat training operations. The Soldiers’ reserve units include: • 1st Battalion, 354th Field Artillery Regiment in Tulsa, Okla.;

5th Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment Soldiers pose with Maj. Gen. (retired) Robert Silverthorne Jr. (front, center) after running in the 5K event in Louisville, Ky. Courtesy Photo

• 2nd Battalion, 354th Field Artillery Regiment in Grand Prairie,Texas; • 2nd Battalion, 377th Infantry Regiment in Lincoln, Neb.; • 2nd Battalion, 334th Infantry Regiment in Granite City, Ill.

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 43

We know what it means to serve.®

44 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2010

The 108th Griffon Association The 108th Training Division (IT), and now the 108th Training Command (IET) has always been supported by The Griffon Asso-

ciation. The Griffon Association is comprised of current and former members of the 108th who want to keep in contact long after their of-

Membership Application 108th Griffon Association, Inc. Please send application for membership to:

The 108th Griffon Association, Inc.

PO Box 3348 Asheboro, NC 27204 Please include a check or money order for $10 or $108 for life membership (no cash please) payable to 108th Griffon Association, Inc. Please allow six to eight weeks for your *certificate to arrive at your mailing address.

Please share this information with anyone who is eligible.

PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION CLEARLY! PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION CLEARLY NEW APPLICATION

RENEWAL

LIFE TIME MEMBERSHIP $108.00

ficial duties have ended. Historically, the Griffon Association has provided college scholarships to the children of its members.

The Griffon Association has gone through times of high membership and frequent activity, but also through some periods of inactivity.

Under the leadership of Maj. Gen. (retired) Skip McCartney, the Griffon Association is transforming into a newer and more relevant organization. The new Griffon Association has a 12 member executive board and the Board of Directors believe a new and broader mission is needed for the Griffon Association. The new mission encompasses six areas of focus: social, professional updates, general support, family support, scholarships, along with a subscription to â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Griffonâ&#x20AC;?.

The 108th Training Command (IET) is no longer a Carolinas centric command, so as the association grows to incorporate members in other states, one could expect for social events to occur in other regions of the country with active memberships.

One of the needs most often expressed by retired members is

the desire to learn more about current changes in the 108th and its mission.

During future 108th Training Command commander conferences, the Griffon Association may have their annual meeting at the same location so briefings and educational seminars can be included utilizing the expertise of 108th active service members.

Many retirees stated they missed the camaraderie of the military, of course, but also missed knowing how the 108th was being utilized as an important force in our Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense.

Given the number of retirees in the association, there was is also a need for personal advice on how to navigate bureaucratic systems such as pension services and Tricare.

Finally, all Griffon Association members will receive a subscription to the 108th Training Commandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quarterly publication,â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Griffonâ&#x20AC;?, as well as having their children eligible for college scholarships.

If you are interested in joining the Griffon Association, please mail the application included in this issue of The Griffon, or email Wallace Holston at 108th Griffon sAssociation@triadd.rr.com.

Name:_______________________________________________________ Rank:_________________ /MR/MRS/MS/MISS (as you wish it to appear on your Certificate) (Optional) (Circle one)

Address:________________________________________________________________ Phone # (

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G-1 TRICARE Retired Reserve TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR) is a premium-based, worldwide health plan available for purchase that qualified retired Reserve members and survivors may purchase.

TRR offers comprehensive health coverage from any TRICARE-authorized provider or hospital. *Law requires members to pay the full cost of coverage under TRR with no government subsidy.

Purchasing TRR is a two-step process.

Step 1: Qualify Retired Reserve members may qualify to purchase TRR coverage if they are: • Members of the Retired Reserve of a Reserve Component who are qualified for non-regular retirement under 10 U.S.C., Chapter 1223 • Under age 60 • Not eligible for, or enrolled in, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program Survivors of retired Reserve members may qualify to purchase TRR coverage if all of the following applies: • The sponsor was covered by TRR on the date of his or her death.

• They are immediate family members of the deceased sponsor (spouses cannot have remarried).

• TRR coverage would begin before the date the deceased sponsor would have turned 60 years old.

• Note: Survivor coverage is not affected by FEHB eligibility To qualify for TRR: • Log on to the DMDC Reserve Component Purchased TRICARE Application.To log on, you must have either a: • Department of Defense (DoD) Common Access Card (CAC), • DFAS (MyPay) Account, or • DoD Self-Service Logon (DS Logon) Premium (Level 2) account.The DS Logon Premium (Level 2) account is given to a user who has registered using their CAC or DFAS myPay Login ID or who has completed an in-person proofing process by an agency official. View all frequently asked questions about getting a DS Logon.

• Select “Purchase Coverage” and follow the instructions.

• If you certify that you are eligible for or enrolled in FEHB, you do not qualify and cannot purchase TRR. • If you certify that you are NOT eligible for or enrolled in FEHB, you will be guided through the process of selecting a TRR start date and electing which family members you want covered.

• Print and sign the completed Reserve Component Health Coverage Request Form (DD

Form 2896-1).

• Proceed to Step 2 to purchase TRR. Note: If you do not qualify, you will not be able to complete or print the form. Please contact your National Guard or Reserve personnel office for assistance. If you experience a technical problem, call 1-800-538-9552 for assistance.

than the last day of the month before coverage is to begin. Coverage begins on the first day of the first or second month (whichever you select on the form).

If you qualify based on loss of other TRICARE coverage, changes in family composition or for TRR survivor coverage, your application deadlines and effective dates of

Soldier’s

Gold Mine Nuggets to keep you informed

connectivity of the web and military networks, a moment of inattention or negligence can put lives and missions at risk half way around the world. Cybercriminals and foreign agents are always looking for weak spots and open doors in our secure networks.

Even when all security protocols are in place our military networks are under constant attack.

That’s no secret.Yet, it is not always obvious to military personnel stateside or down range, that a single unauthorized download or a network access point left unsecured can endanger fellow soldiers.

G-7

Step 2: Purchase

coverage will vary.

Mail the completed and signed Reserve Component Health Coverage Request Form (DD Form 2896-1) with the premium payment amount printed on the form (minimum of two months’ premiums) to your regional or overseas contractor by the applicable deadline.

The 108th Training Command Need help with the DMDC Reserve (IET) produced 402 new Drill SerComponent Purchased TRICARE geants (DSs) in Fiscal Year (FY) Application?

2010.This was achieved by the

General Enrollment You may purchase TRR coverage to begin in any month of the year.The application form must be postmarked or received no later

For technical assistance or to report system problems with the site, please call the DMDC Support Center at 1-800-477-8227.

G-6 On Cyber Patrol Protecting Your Own Because of the interactivity and

collective efforts of all parties involved.Thanks for your continued support.The goal of the 108th Training Command (IET) in FY 11 and future training years is again to produce in excess of 400 new DSs. To achieve this goal we must optimize the training seats allocated to the Drill Sergeant School with qual(see NUGGETS page 46

46 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Nuggets (Continued from page 45)

ity DSCs. Each DS class has 80 quotas allocated, it is imperative that a DSC has an ATRRS reservation in every seat/every class.

The 108th Training Command (IET) G-7, G-1, and JAG staff makes a collective effort to screen the candidates to ensure only qualified DSCs become DSs. Unfortunately, every DSC who would like to become a DS does not possess the qualities required to become one.

Every unit responsible for producing DSs plays a vital role to ensure only the best qualified DSCs become DS.The process begins when the DS (mentor) initially counsels

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es do arise, so, on a case-by-case basis (if G-7 is notified via e-mail) we will examine each case and determine if an exception to policy will be granted. Given the exception to policy, new DSC packets will not be accepted one (1) week prior to a class report date.

The first Drill Sergeant class of FY 11 graduated on 11 Dec 10.The graduation ceremony was held at Fort Jackson, SC. Congratulations to newest Drill Sergeants of the 95th/98th Divisions. Please share your experience and knowledge with your peers/subordinates and encourage them to take on this challenge.

Currently, all of the FY 11 DS classes have been relocated to Fort Jackson, SC. Below is the current Drill Sergeant School schedule for FY 11. Please note that the Drill Sergeant, Option 3, Phase 1 and the Drill Sergeant Leader Candidate (DSLC) course report on the same dates as the Drill Sergeant, Option 5 classes.

Please access the G-7 website: https://www.us.army.mil/suite/ page/593383, there will you find an abumdance of information: the G-7 Bulletin, Confederation of InterAllied Reserve Officers - Military Competition (CIOR-MILCOMP) information, DSC related forms, DSS data, DSL/DSLC and DSC information. If you have specific questions please e-mail them to DIT108_G7@ USAR.ARMY.MIL, someone will promptly reply. If you prefer to call, the POC is MSG Malachi, 704-2272820 x4234 (OFF) or 704-496-3960 (MIL BB).

Equal Opportunity The 108th Training Command (IET) is rapidly trying to fill Equal Opportunity leader positions, Sgt. (P) through 1st Lt., at battalion level and below to assist commanders in carrying out the EO program, developing a healthy climate, and ensuring fair treatment for all persons based solely on merit, fitness, and capability. If you are interested in making a difference in your unit and filling this key position contact your chain command and request EO leader training today. Please coordinate with Master Sgt. Moann Benson, 108th Training Command (IET) EO Advisor, at (704) 227-2820 ext. 4201, for training seats. Listed below is a schedule of course dates for this year: Date 5-12 Jan. 2011 7-14 Feb. 2011 6-13 Mar 2011

Location Ft. Bragg, NC Ft. Bragg, NC Ft. Knox, KY

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 47

Internal Control Overview Internal Control, what is it; many have asked. In its simplest terms, Internal Control is defined as a “process, effected by commanders, managers and any other personnel, designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the achievement of objectives in the efficiency and effectiveness of operations, safeguarding Army assets and compliance with laws and regulations.”

Although this formal definition refers to internal control as a process, it should be viewed as a series of actions that permeate the entire 108th Training Command (IET). In-

ternal controls exist in the processes of planning, executing and monitoring. It should not be viewed as an add-on to these basic management processes, but should be viewed as an integral part of them and they should be placed at strategic points in these processes to ensure that objectives are achieved.

Internal control is at the core of the commands’ mission while providing safeguards to protect resources. Commanders and managers at all levels are responsible for implementing appropriate internal control activities that are appropriate to their units’ processes; while keeping in mind that effective internal controls benefit, rather than encumber the mission.

Components of Internal Control The Army’s internal control process is comprised of five components: 1. Control Environment, 2. Risk Assessment, 3. Control Activities, 4. Monitoring and 5. Information and Communications

Control Environment The control environment can be best summarized as the attitude that commanders and managers have about internal controls. If commanders believe that internal controls are important, are committed to implementing controls and communicates this view to Soldiers,

then internal controls are more likely to function effectively. However, if commanders view internal controls as an obstacle, this attitude will likely be communicated to Soldiers through the commander’s actions. With this attitude, Soldiers will likely view internal controls as “red tape” to be “cut-through” in order to complete the mission at hand. An effective internal control environment is an intangible factor that sets the foundation for all other components of internal control.

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Nuggets (Continued from page 47)

customers (our subordinate units) and external customers (TRADOC, USARC, taxpayers, etc.).This is based on the premise that opportunity and risk are related; therefore, the 108th Training Command (IET) is exposed to risks by simply fulfilling our mission. By this definition, it can be seen that risks should not be viewed negatively, but simply inherent to the decisions that go into our very business; Initial Military Training.

AR 11-2, Managers Internal Control Program, defines risk assessment as “the process of evaluating the risks in a functional area based on the key internal controls that are in place. Specifically, risk assessment is measuring two quantities of the risk, the magnitude of the potential loss, and the probability that the loss will occur. In addition, the key internal controls employed to reduce risk should not exceed the benefits derived.”

Note:Tools for use in developing risk assessments are available at: http://asafm.army.mil/offices/FO/ IntControl.aspx?OfficeCode=1500.

Internal Control Activities Internal Control Activities are the policies, procedures, techniques, and mechanisms that enforce com-

mander’s directives, such as the process of adhering to requirements for budget development and execution.They help ensure that actions are taken to address risks.

Internal Control Activities are an integral part of an entity’s planning, implementing, reviewing, and accountability for stewardship of government resources and achieving effective results.

Internal Control Activities occur at all levels and functions of the command.They include a wide range of diverse activities such as approvals, authorizations, verifications, reconciliations, performance reviews, maintenance of security, and the creation and maintenance of related records which provide evidence of execution of these activities as well as appropriate documentation. Internal Control Activities may be applied in a computerized information system environment or through manual processes.

Monitoring Subsequent to implementing internal controls, units should periodically monitor and evaluate their effectiveness to ensure that the controls are functioning properly.

Potential weaknesses in internal control structure may be identified by the Organizational Inspection Program (OIP), the Command Supply Discipline Program (CSDP), the Office of Internal Review or

by Soldiers and Civilians of units.

When commanders and managers are notified of these weaknesses, they should take immediate, corrective action to resolve the identified problems in their internal control structure. Although monitoring is a separate component of internal control, it is easy to see how it relates to the component of internal control environment previously discussed.

Information and Communication For a command, regardless of the level, to function and control its operations and complete its mission, communication relating to both operational and financial data are needed at all levels in a relevant, reliable and timely fashion.

From Your Local Office of Internal Review NOTE: If your unit has identified a weakness in the internal control structure, please feel free to contact the servicing Office of Internal Review and we will be glad to assist you in your efforts to establish a good system of internal controls.

108th Training Command (IET) - Col.Tom Sisinyak - Mr. Michael Williams - Ms. Kerri Tadt 95th Training Division (IET) - Lt. Col. Barry Royce - Mr. John Scott 98th Division Division (IET) - Lt. Col. Rick Seeger - Mr. Chips Hicks 104th Division Division (LT) - Lt. Col. June Dhamers - Mr. John McCarthy

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Surgeon

By Master Sgt. Richard R. Lorenz 108th Training Command (IET)

Use this guide to help you recognize suicidal ideation and/or behavior in your Soldiers and get them the appropriate help.

Recognizing and responding to Suicidal Ideation (Suicidal Thoughts) Assess your Soldiers for the following indications of suicidal ideation (suicidal thoughts): • withdrawal from others (social isolation) • signs and symptoms of depression - crying, sadness, fatigue, helplessness, poor concentration, reduced interest in sex and other pleasurable activities, constipation, and weight loss • overwhelming anxiety (the most common trigger for a suicidal attempt) • saying goodbye to friends and family • putting affairs in order • giving away possessions • conveying covert suicidal messages and death wishes • making obvious suicidal statements (I’d be better off dead, or you’d be better off without me)

Responding to a suicide threat If you believe the Soldier intends to attempt suicide, assess the seriousness of his/her intent and the immediacy of the risk. Consider a Soldier with a chosen method who plans to commit suicide in the next 48 to 72 hours to be a high risk.

Tell the Soldier you’re concerned, and urge him/her to avoid self-destructive behavior. Consult with a mental health professional or a medical professional about psychiatric hospitalization. In the meantime, arrange for a safe environment such as having someone watch the Soldier at home or take them to the hospital. Never leave a suicidal Soldier who has a plan alone.

Safety precautions: If you believe the Soldier is at high risk for suicide, initiate the following safety precautions: • Provide a safe environment.

Check for and correct any conditions that pose a danger. For example - look for exposed pipes, windows without safety glass, access to the roof or open balconies.

• Remove dangerous objects belts, razors, suspenders, light cords, glass, knives, scissors, nail files, clippers and so on.

• Be alert when the Soldier shaves, takes medications, or uses the bathroom.

• Make the Soldier’s restrictions clear to the Soldier’s immediate supervisor.

• Plan for observation of the Soldier.

• Clarify day watch and night watch responsibilities.

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 49 Stay close Helping the Soldier build emotional ties to others is the ultimate means of preventing suicide. Besides observing the Soldier, maintain personal contact with the Soldier. Encourage continuity of care and consistency of those on day and night watch.

When to keep secrets A suicidal Soldier may ask you to keep his suicidal thoughts confidential. Remember that such requests are ambivalent - a suicidal person typically wants to escape the pain of life, but also wants to live. A part of the Soldier wants you to tell other health care workers about his/her suicidal thoughts so they can be kept alive.

Tell the Soldier you can’t keep secrets that endanger their life or conflict with their treatment.You have a duty to keep the Soldier safe and to ensure the best care.

sonable cause to believe has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. It is also unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence to receive firearms or ammunition. There is no “military,”“line of duty,” or “overseas duty” exception to the amendment, so it applies to Soldiers worldwide, even in hostile fire areas.

A qualifying conviction within the meaning of the Lautenberg Amendment does not include summary court-martial convictions, imposition of nonjudicial punishment under Article 15, UCMJ, or deferred prosecution in civilian court. There must be an actual guilty plea or guilty verdict, even if it is to a re-

duced charge which does not specifically refer to domestic violence.

By DOD policy, a state or Federal conviction for a felony crime of domestic violence adjudged on or after 27 November 2002, will be considered a qualifying conviction.

Being convicted of a Lautenberg offense will have a detrimental effect on a Soldier’s Army career. Soldiers with a qualifying conviction may not be assigned or attached to TOE or MTOE units or be assigned to leadership positions that would give them access to firearms or ammunition. They are permanently prohibited from re-enlisting and may not attend service schools where instruction with individual weapons or ammunition is part of

the curriculum and are non-deployable for any mission requiring the use of firearms or ammunition.

Commanders must establish procedures to ensure compliance with the law and be diligent in their efforts to exclude soldiers with qualifying convictions from prohibited activities. However, Soldiers have an affirmative, ongoing responsibility to report any conviction that may qualify under the Lautenberg Amendment.

For additional guidance, contact the 108th Training Command (IET) Office of the Staff Judge Advocate. For assistance with preventing domestic violence, contact ArmyOne Source at 1-800464-8107.

Safety Preventable POV Accidents

By Mr. Christopher Black Safety and Occupational Health Specialist 108th Training Command (IET)

Privately owned vehicles (POVs) and privately owned motorcycles (POMs) continue to be the leading cause of off-duty Army accidents in 2010. Statistics indicate a majority of these accidents and resulting fatalities are preventable. A review of 2009 and 2010 data suggest that over 50 percent of these accidents and fatalities were the result of four driver mistakes: failure to use seatbelts in motor vehicles or wear personal protective equipment (PPE) on motorcycles, excessive speed, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Traumatic head injuries are the primary cause of death in motorcycle accidents due to failure to wear a helmet. Department of Defense (DOD) policy requires Soldiers to wear seatbelts at all times when operating a motor vehicle and Soldiers who ride motorcycles are required to wear helmets regardless of state helmet laws, on or off duty.

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50 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

Annual Military Competition (Continued from page 10)

Lindekrantz served with the U.S. during the Korean conflict and earned a position on the U.S. Army Marksmanship team. After he completed his enlistment in the U.S. Army, he returned to his home in Sweden where he earned his commission and still serves as a Cpt. in the Swedish Army Reserve today.

The next day, Lindekrantz and Team USA traveled to a civilian shooting range where the team met retired Cpt. Bo Walger.The two of them had coordinated the range, all the weapons and ammunition, and were prepared to conduct distance estimation training as well.

Lindekrantz also made all the necessary arrangements for a NATO Land Obstacle course at the Swedish Army Base, swimming practice at Marine Base Berga, two more orienteering courses. After spending five training days in Sweden the team moved on to Stavanger, Norway for the official CIOR competition.

Over 120 competitors from 14 countries traveled to Stavanger to represent their nations.The 10 service members who comprised Team USA made lasting relationships with Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines from 13 other nations and improved the team member’s

abilities as trainers and leaders according to Sgt. 1st Class Jered Williams, Sr. Drill Sgt. Leader, USAR Drill Sgt. School Williams added,“It gave me the opportunity to operate with an extremely high caliber of Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen who brought a variety of experiences to the team. I was challenged to perform under stress and outside of my comfort zone and I learned a great deal about working as a member of a joint force and the experience strengthened my resolve to strive to be the best trainer and leader that I can.The camaraderie during the competition with US, NATO, and guest nation service members was one of the most exciting experiences I’ve had in the military. I look forward to next year and have renewed motivation to sustain a high level of physical fitness.”

Team USA #3, the U.S. veteran team took top honors in the medical competition and Team USA #2, a novice team, took top honors in swimming in the novice category and second in swimming overall.

All three US teams posted respectable times on the NATO Land Obstacle course and the orienteering competition.The orienteering/military skills event was a 15 kilometer cross country land navigation

course through the picturesque Norwegian countryside. Competitors wore utility uniforms and carried the host nation’s weapons while completing an assortment of military skills Competitors from Belgium, USA and Germany receive a range including map briefing prior to firing the GLOK 17 (9mm) pistol. Photo by Sgt. 1st reading, distance Class, Tommy Bish 108th Training Command (IET) G-7 estimation, BMX racing, precision ing general, 108th Training Comrifle shooting, and grenade throwmand (IET) has endorsed the coning. During the official weapons tinuation of the program for 2011 competitions, the competitors fired and has asked for support from the host nation’s rifle, the HK 416 the 95th, 98th and 104th Train(5.56mm), at 200 meter precision ing Divisions. In Stall’s last article and rapid fire targets.They also in The Griffon, he challenged the fired the host nation’s pistol, the Soldiers in the command to Raise GLOK 17 (9mm) at 25 meter preci- the Bar, Blaze the Trail, and Build sion and rapid fire targets. on Strength.This program is one The host country, Norway, also way to challenge the Soldiers in hosted social events for the comour command.The CIOR competipetitors and coaches including tion makes it possible for Soldiers opening and closing ceremonies, of the 108th to participate in a informal and semi-formal dinners, joint and multi-national environa gala ball, and a trip to Preikestoment.The 2011 MILCOMP will be len (the Pulpit Rock).This mission hosted in Warsaw, Poland. Personprovided selected team members nel interested should email Sgt. 1st from the 108th Training Command Class Tommy Bish at thomas.bish@ (IET) with a unique opportunity to us.army.mil or logon to the 108th reward top performers.

G-7 website and follow the link to Brig. Gen. Robert Stall, command- the MILCOMP page.

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Opportunity for Veterans with Schneider program Schneider National, one of the nation’s largest truckload carriers, recently launched a small business owner program designed to help members of the military become

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The Schneider National Military Owner-Operator Program is open to veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserve. A Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL) and six months of experience are needed to be eligible. Schneider will recommend driving schools for individuals who still need to acquire their Class A CDL. Military personnel can also work with a Schneider representative to learn about having their GI Bill applied toward driving school tuition.

The program allows military personnel to purchase or lease a truck without a credit check. Another benefit of the program is that leases will remain active throughout the time that military owner-operators are deployed or in training.

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“We believe the men and women who so courageously defend our country deserve the utmost respect and unwavering support from their employers,” said Mike Hinz, vice president at Schneider National. Prior to joining Schneider, Hinz was an artillery officer in the United States Army. He recently retired from the U.S. Army Reserve after 24 years of service.

In addition to providing owneroperator opportunities, Schneider National also has programs for military personnel to join the organization as company drivers.

“All of our military programs at Schneider National have been created to fit the lifestyles and commitments of former and current military personnel,” Hinz added.

“We have been recognized as a top military employer by several organizations, including National HireVetsFirst and Employer Support for Guard and Reserve, and we have consistently been ranked on the GI Jobs Top 100 Military Friendly Employers list.”

Schneider offers other advantages to service members including excused time off for military training, exceptional pay and career advancement opportunities.

For more information on Schneider’s career opportunities for current and former service members visit www.schneiderjobs.com or call 800-44-PRIDE (800-4477433).

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 53

New Offering Enables Financial Success and Business Independence for Veterans, National Guard members and Reservists About Schneider National, Inc. Schneider National has exceptional career paths for professional drivers and truck school graduates. Solo and team opportunities exist for company drivers and owner-operators in Schneider’s Regional, Over the Road, Dedicated,Tanker and Expedited lines of business.

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On July 12, 1849, Austria launched an attack on the Italian city of Venice unlike any seen before. Pilotless balloons armed with timed fusers were launched from the Austrian steamer Volcano and were expected to drop explosives over enemy lines.

Many of the balloons launched from Volcano failed to ever properly ignite over the city, but Austria’s attack on Venice marked the first recorded account of military forces utilizing ship-launched, pilotless aircraft.The attack, no matter how ill-conceived, also marked the beginning of the long and intriguing history of one of the most noteworthy types of aircraft used by forces today – the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, or, as it is more commonly known, the UAV.

Balloons and Kites – WMDs? In the years following Austria’s balloon attack, 19th century inventors continued to search for ways to launch a manless military operation. During the Civil War, Charles Perley, an inventor from New York City, registered a patent for a specially-designed hot-air balloon that could carry timed explosives. Both the Union and Confederacy are believed to have used the balloon, but it ultimately proved to be largely ineffective and did little to help either side advance.

Just years later, however, Englishman Douglas Archibald became the

first man to successfully take aerial photos using a kite. Corporal William Eddy of the U.S. Military used this idea to take numerous surveillance photos during the SpanishAmerican War in 1898.

World War and the Rise of the UAV Though the military began to experiment with pilotless aircraft during the 1800s, the World Wars of the twentieth century fueled the development of unmanned planes as the world knows them today.

During World War I, new innovations in pilotless aircraft, such as the Kettering Aerial Torpedo – a small biplane designed to carry explosives equal to its own weight – and the Sperry Aerial Torpedo – a stabilizer that helped keep aircraft flying straight and level - brought the UAV closer to use during war than ever before.

Then, throughout World War II, both Allied and Axis forces raced to develop a mission-ready unmanned aerial vehicle.The greatest U.S. success in this came at the Van Nuys plant of the Radioplane Co. (now known as Northrop Grumman) in southern California.The birthplace of Marilyn Monroe (the actress, then named Norma Jeane Dougherty, worked at the factory and was discovered by a photographer during her time there), it was at Radioplane that founder Reginald Denny and his team of aviation specialists developed the drone – an advanced aircraft that could be controlled by radio signals.

The drone at first seemed to be the perfect tool for antiaircraft target practice.That was, until the 1960s when “the godfather of drones” Norman Sakamato developed a drone that came equipped with a camera for use during reconnaissance missions.The Firebee, as it was named, came covered with anti-radar paint and was air-launched and controlled from a DC-130 director aircraft. After completing a mission, the UAV was then directed to a recovery area where it could deploy its parachute and be safely recovered by a helicopter.

With the western world in fear of a Soviet attack, the specially-designed drone became a key espionage tool in the 1960s. By 1975, more than 1,000 Firebees had also completed over 34,000 reconnaissance missions over Southeast Asia.

Pioneers of the Sky Following the Vietnam War, America continued to find ways to improve upon the Firebee but struggled to overcome budgetary concerns, poor designs, and the resistance of military personnel who feared the development of an entirely manless Air Force.

The UAV continued to evolve, however, as Israel modified several

GSA/DOD Firebees purchased from the U.S. in 1970.

Between the county’s success in the 1973 Yom Kippur War and a visit by Secretary of the Navy John Lehman and Marine Corps Commandant General P.X. Kelley to view their aircraft firsthand, it became clear that Israel had become a leader in modern day UAV development by the mid-1980s. During the 1991 gulf war, America utilized this technology, primarily Israel’s Pioneer UAV, to take footage over Iraq.

UAVs in the New Millennium As insurgents continue to rely on their hide-and-seek method of warfare, American troops have relied on UAVs unlike ever before in the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. While some unmanned aircraft, such as the Predator and the Reaper, come complete with Hellfire missiles and explosives, others, such as the Raven, are no bigger than model airplanes and can be operated by a soldier after as few as two weeks of training.

The ever-increasing need for UAVs in today’s theater of operations has also left the U.S. Military in need of space in which personnel can properly direct and main-

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 55

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DRIVER SAFETY

Driving safety and education In this issue, we talk to AAA’s driving safety expert, Dr. William Van Tassel, about AAA’s involvement in driving safety education and training, and the special challenges of promoting safe driving habits among young drivers.

Q: Everyone has heard of AAA, especially related to emergency roadside service. However, AAA also has a long history in promoting traffic safety. Tell us a bit about that part of AAA. Van Tassel:“Although we are in-

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deed best known for roadside service, AAA has been active in promoting driving safety since it was founded in 1903. In fact, this year marks the 75th anniversary of the release of our first driver training materials- AAA released its Sportsmanlike Driving program in 1935.

Since then, AAA has steadily increased its efforts to promote traffic safety through outreach, advocacy and education.”

Q: How would you describe the current scope of AAA’s driving safety initiatives?

Van Tassel:“In a word — comprehensive! New teen drivers, young adults, fleet drivers and senior drivers- each of these groups has its own needs and faces unique safety issues.That is why AAA offers programs tailored to each group’s needs. Although our competitors often advocate a one-size-fits-all program, such programs cannot really be expected to get the job done.”

Q: What is the latest development in AAA resources for experienced drivers?

Van Tassel:“We’re very excited about the latest version of the AAA Driver Improvement ProgramTM, the training program designed specifically for drivers already driving, whether still young and inexperienced, or with years of experience.

AAA’s flagship POV driving safety program, it includes prevention-oriented strategies to address; • Distracted Driving • Speeding/Aggressive Driving • Fatigue Prevention • Occupant Protection • Night Driving • Alcohol-impaired Driving • Collision Avoidance” Q: What can commanders do to promote safe driving among the young soldiers?

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Van Tassel:“Of course, many soldiers will have completed a basic driver education program.That is a good start, but it’s only that- a start.Training needs to continue to achieve maximum prevention and protection. First, commanders can recognize that their commitment to protecting their soldiers from POV crashes is well justified.They very likely know that traffic collisions are the leading cause of death for drivers age 18-24, and that the application of specialize training to protect the force is a good investment.

“Second, commanders can work to keep the issue of driving safety front-of-mind among their soldiers.

Young males especially need to continually receive driving safety messages- they admit that there is really no way to overload them, and that they actually need continuous ‘doses’ of driving safety information.

“Lastly, commanders can adopt a POV safety training program that meets their needs, as well as the needs of their soldiers.The program should support consistent delivery over the long-term, and effectively integrate into the military’s existing training infrastructure.”

Q: Earlier you mentioned AAA’s Driver Improvement Program. Is there any connection between the U.S. military and this program?

Van Tassel: “Actually, U.S. military trainers provided valuable input for the latest version of the Driver Improvement Program (DIP). They helped us enhance the program’s modular structure, improving its ability to span up to eight hours, delivered in 60 minute sessions, as time and deployment schedules allow. They also helped us increase the interactivity to help raise the students’ engagement even higher.

“Commands currently using the program have shared that it’s a good match with the military’s existing infrastructure, and that the program is very cost-effective to deliver. They have also expressed an interest in an online version of DIP, so we’re seriously exploring that as well.

“We are proud that some commands are using the program, and we’re hoping to get the word out about the program to more military commands to see if it meets their needs. Safe soldiers are essential to protecting our country, and we hope AAA can be a resource to ensure the safety of all soldiers.”

Dr. Van Tassel (a.k.a. “Dr. Bill”) manages AAA’s driver training program and has been quoted in The New York Times and USAToday on driver safety and training issues. He has also taught graduate courses in POV safety at the U.S. Combat Readiness/Safety Center.

FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS

THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ 57

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Is a biblical higher education for you?

Randall Bell| Director, ABHE Commission on Accreditation The Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) represents roughly 100 accredited Colleges, Universities, and Seminaries throughout the United States and Canada.These institutions provide a distinct type of education built on the principle that the Bible is the integrating core of the curriculum Institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that provide a biblical higher education begin with the Bible as the integrating core of the curriculum. It assumes that absolute truth exists and that it is revealed in the Bible. Revealed truth could not be discovered through human effort. Since all truth is Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s truth, biblical higher education is based on the premise that revealed truth will be consistent with knowledge/truth that man can discover through his own efforts.

All human derived knowledge will ultimately align with knowledge revealed through the Bible.

A biblical higher education then is comprised of three major components. Bible and theology is the first component. Students study the content of the Bible itself.They also study theology where an effort is made to understand what the Bible is teaching by pulling together all of the Bibleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s material on a particular subject to figure out what the Bible actually teaches about that subject.

Theology looks at issues like the nature of God, the nature of man, the nature of salvation (the means for reconciliation with God) etc.

The primary focus of the biblical/theological component is on the truth that God has revealed through the Bible.The second ma-

jor component deals with general education.The primary focus of this component is on truth that man has discovered through his own efforts. It deals with language skills, mathematical skills, science, history, and art to name a few of the topics.

The general studies component is designed to help students understand their world and to relate to their own and other cultures.

The third component of the curriculum deals with professional studies.The courses within this area of the curriculum are normally designed to teach students useful skills. Institutions of biblical higher education require all students to major in biblical and theological studies. However, many programs include a second major.The second major is normally covered by the professional studies component of the curriculum.

Many years ago, it was my privilege to attend a meeting on higher education where a gentleman, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve long forgotten, spoke regarding the means of â&#x20AC;&#x153;future-proofingâ&#x20AC;? an education. Although I have forgotten his name, I have not forgotten his message.

He pointed out the rapid pace of change in our society and called attention to the fact that students are often prepared for vocations that may soon prove irrelevant, given the pace of change. He noted that education used to consist of equipping students with know solutions for known problems.

As the pace of change increased, educators began to help students understand problems and provide some skills that might equip them to search for solutions to problems.

At the time of his address, he asserted that the pace of change has accelerated so dramatically, that we

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58 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2010

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people skills. Second, equip students with communication skills.

Third, equip people with problemsolving skills. Although almost two decades have passed since I heard that speech, I continue to believe that the presenter was onto something!

In the context of the speakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formula for a future-proof education, I believe that a biblical higher education is hard to beat!

First, the Bible is a book that deals with people skills. It is about relationships. If, as a culture, we would faithfully implement biblical principles in our relationships, a high percentage of our people problems would simply disappear. A biblical higher education will provide a major emphasis on content that will help students with their people skills. Second, a biblical higher education places a strong emphasis on communications skills.This strong emphasis is natural primarily because the Bible challenges believers to share the good news of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love and Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sacrifice on our behalf with others.

Because most institutions of biblical higher education are comparatively small, students become part of a learning community where faculty members are able to know

each student personally. Within the student body, most students will get acquainted with each of the other students. Since the goal of the community is to love and relate to one another in a manner consistent with Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teachings during His life on earth, the community environment becomes a great place to develop life-long friendships.

Indeed, according to the NoelLevitz/Christian Consulting Student Satisfaction Inventory Benchmarking Project, more ABHE students say they would choose their institution all over again than any other segment of higher education!

Most ABHE member institutions are competitively priced. Indeed, while they are all private institutions, in terms of cost of attendance, most compare with state universities rather than other private colleges.

If you would like to consider a biblical higher education, you can explore the various options on the Web site of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) www. abhe.org. Once, on the site, simply click the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Directoryâ&#x20AC;? button for a list of schools.The Directory will include links to the websites of the institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s listed. Wherever you live, you should be able to find an ABHE institution of biblical higher education near you.

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HOMESCHOOLING OPTIONS

Homeschool inspiration: an atmosphere of education

By Melonie Kennedy Do you know which homeschooling method is known for its founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dislike of dry textbooks and offers an in-depth exploration of the arts while still giving students a firm foundation in core academic subjects?

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all the â&#x20AC;&#x153;basesâ&#x20AC;? are covered during our homeschooling journey. With the potential for busy PCS seasons, deployments,TDYs, and changes in schools and teachers, a need for educational continuity is actually one of the major reasons for â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and perks of â&#x20AC;&#x201C; selecting homeschooling as an education method for military children. But just being home with a parent doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t guarantee that a solid educational structure or a schedule that works for the family or for the child(ren) receiving the education.

Enter Charlotte Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s writings about teaching children. According to this nineteenth-century educator and those who follow her tenets, we must instill in our children good habits to replace the bad. We must expose them liberally to fine art and music, nature, foreign languages and to â&#x20AC;&#x153;livingâ&#x20AC;? books that are, themselves, works of art. We should use short, focused periods for lessons which allow children to complete their work in a time adequate for their age, but not so long as to create boredom and squelch their natural love of learning. Most people retain information better when they personally recount it as a story, so Charlotte Mason families make great use of read-alouds and narration (at all ages). Imagination is not to be humbled and stuffed away in a closet but instead to be brought out and used through the reading of great works of both fiction and nonfiction.

The artists in the family will enjoy the use of nature journals to document their finds during nature walks. Environmentally-focused families will be better able to focus on the cycles of the seasons and learn about the impact of their carbon â&#x20AC;&#x153;footprintâ&#x20AC;? on the planet. Such forays present children and parents with the opportunity to discuss science, allowing them to engage in physical activity and cover whatever philosophical questions come up along the way.

The musically-inclined student will enjoy a focus on fine arts, including studies of famous composers and the use of musical pieces not only for the study of technique but also for general enjoyment.The family with a penchant for foreign language will find plenty of room to study not only languages but also foreign cultures through the Charlotte Mason method. Bibliophiles will love Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preference for whole â&#x20AC;&#x153;livingâ&#x20AC;? books instead of watered-down versions and dry textbooks. Even those family members who do not lean directly toward the more artistic pursuits will benefit highly from the overviews involved in a Charlotte Mason-inspired homeschool; certainly not just the children, either!

Parents seeking more direction in their day will find schedules and routines in various writings by and

about Charlotte Mason; the home educator trying to find a way to relax and simplify will find room for that as well. Nowhere does Charlotte Mason - or the authors who have kept her â&#x20AC;&#x153;alive,â&#x20AC;? such as Karen Andreola and Catherine Levison â&#x20AC;&#x201C; advocate a formal, to-the-minute schedule that must be kept at all costs. Instead, this method leans toward creating a workable routine that will provide structure for both student and teacher while allowing plenty of free time to â&#x20AC;&#x153;let kids be kidsâ&#x20AC;? and help the family accomplish their chores, meetings and the like.This is helpful for the parent who is dealing with life changes such as a pregnancy or little ones in the home, as short lessons on a variety of subjects means more room to maneuver through the trials of daily life.The Charlotte Mason approach creates space for all to pursue their private passions: volunteer activities, running a home-business and creating a homestead.This framework is of great use to military families. Even the â&#x20AC;&#x153;subjectsâ&#x20AC;? in the Charlotte Mason-based curriculum can blend well into the military life; prescribed nature walks equal precious time holding a parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand on a journey down a trail to enjoy leaves during a season that can easily be missed while our sponsor fulfills his or her duty to our country. A parent who is thousands of miles away will enjoy phone calls and web chats that include a young one regaling them with the story of Huck Finn, a very hungry caterpillar, or anything in between â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no need to inform the child that they are doing what Ms. Mason would deem â&#x20AC;&#x153;narratingâ&#x20AC;?!

Any further research you do into Charlotte Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s method of education is sure to make an impact on your family. Even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hold strict to her pedagogy, Charlotte Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delightful comments aimed at both parents and children are some of those most frequently used by eclectic homeschoolers gleaning the best from every philosophy.To the children she said,â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am, I can, I ought, I willâ&#x20AC;? - a reminder to them of everything they can and should be.

For more inspiration from Charlotte Mason, check your local library for books by Karen Andreola (especially her fiction titles Pocketful of Pinecones and Lessons at Blackberry Inn) and Catherine Levison. For a free compendium of Charlotte Mason resources, including booklists by grade, suggested schedules, and other vital information, visit Ambleside Online at www.AmblesideOnline.org.

Melonie Kennedy is an Army â&#x20AC;&#x153;bratâ&#x20AC;?, military wife and mother of two whose work has appeared in multiple magazines, books and e-books. She currently homeschools in Okinawa, Japan. Visit her blog at http://meloniek.blogspot.com.

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SKI SECTION

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has something that will meet your needs.

And whether you’re away with friends and want to enjoy the resort’s many nightlife options — including a comedy club and a nightclub — or spending time with family taking advantage of great activities like snow tubing, indoor/ outdoor heated pools and the Big Top entertainment center, Snowshoe has many options. With great military discounts, including up to 50 percent off lift tickets, and just a day’s drive from anywhere in the region, Snowshoe is the best choice for a ski holiday without dealing with the hassles and high costs of airline travel.

Have fun in the snow at Sugar Mountain Polar bears are fastening their skis and getting a jump on winter fun at Sugar Mountain in Banner Elk, N.C. Billed as North Carolina’s largest ski area, Sugar Mountain offers winter sports enthusiasts a white playground, with an average annual snowfall of 78 inches as well as state-of-the-art snowmaking technology.

Adventures are endless, from skiing and skating to snowboarding and snowshoeing.

Sugar Mountain is a family resort, notes marketing director Kim Jochl. “Our ski school and our snowboard school cater to the little girl or boy wanting to ski or the little girl or boy wanting to snowboard.” In addition to the Sugar Bear Ski School and Polar Bear Snowboard School for children, she says, the resort offers private and group lessons for parents and kids too.

“There’s always time after the lessons for the family to ski together.”

Depending on their level of expertise, skiers and snowboarders can choose from among 20 groomed trails. With a peak elevation of 5,300 feet, Sugar Mountain is North Carolina’s only resort to feature a 1,200foot vertical drop.

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TRAVEL USA

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weekday lunchtime, including sic along the ancient river’s levee in Cherries ‘n Cream, an ice cream October. Winter brings out the magmade specifically for the festival. nificence of Macon’s historic manConcerts are held daily, highlightsions when house museums decoing Blues, Urban, Gospel, Bluegrass, rate and host special tours during Classic Rock and Pop — featuring an Olde South Christmas, followed Billboard artists, military bands and by January’s MAGA — the Macon, many talented up-andcomers.

With so much to offer including plenty of southern hospitality - the town will literally hum with excitement during the International Cherry Blossom Festival! But for those who can’t make it to that event, Macon offers something year round.

For instance, April’s first weekend Fired Pictured is the Fickling Family home, where Macon’s first Works pottery show and cherry trees were planted. Photo courtesy Mike Whye sale is an annual hit with arts enthusiasts, and the Tubman Georgia, Film Festival.

Museum presents its Pan African Year-round festivals include fun Festival of Georgia, a celebration outside opportunities to enjoy muof African American, African and sic and the arts with events like Caribbean cultures in Central City Friday Fest, where every Friday is Park later that month. celebrated like it’s First Friday with Each summer, Bragg Jam Mufree outdoor entertainment, gallery sic and Kids’ Art Festival brings openings and restaurant and bar Macon’s music heritage to life specials in Downtown Macon, free throughout downtown to benefit Second Sunday Brunch Concerts in the city’s beautiful Ocmulgee Herithe College Hill Corridor’s historic tage Trail along the river. In SepWashington Park, and Third Thurstember, Native Americans perform days at Mercer Village, the city’s ancient ceremonial dances, storycoolest new place for pizza, wings, tellers share legends and attendees coffee and bicycles, nestled up to enjoy roasted corn, buffalo burgers, Mercer University. fine art and native crafts at the OcTo plan your getaway, check out www. mulgee Indian Celebration. visitmacon.org or call the Macon ConMacon’s newest festival, LeveeFvention and Visitors Bureau at 800-768est, offers a full day of fun and mu3401.

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After your tour of duty, tour some of Georgia’s most fascinating family attractions for as little as $30 a day. Picnic in one of Macon’s pristine parks and get reconnected.

Kayak or canoe on the Ocmulgee River and try a famous Nu-Way chili dog, voted one of the best by the New York Times.

Be sure to visit the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

Relax and unwind and let us serve you.

See how your family can play for just $30 a day at www.visitmacon.org!

The Helendorf River Inn & Suites is located in the Alpine Village of Helen, Georgia ; Easy walk to shops, restaurants and activities ; Rooms with balconies on the banks of the river ; Enclosed heated pool ; Complimentary continental breakfast ; Suites with fireplaces, Jacuzzis and kitchens ; Large meeting and party facilities ; Operated by an Army Brat P.O. Box 305 • Helen, Georgia 30545

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 65

Monroeville, Monroe County: Alabama’s ‘Literary Capital’

By Sandy Smith Executive Director, Monroeville/Monroe County Chamber of Commerce

For those people who find themselves traveling U.S. Highway 84 in Alabama (part of the Five State El Camino Corridor), a great mid-point stop is the town of Monroeville, county seat of Monroe County.The town’s growth encompasses the intersections of U. S. Highway 84, and Alabama Highway 21, and the town is also a mere 25 miles off Interstate 65, midway between Mobile and Montgomery, the capital city. Monroeville is a great family destination, offering visitors the opportunity to visit a site of “The Southern Literary Trail” as well as experience southern history and culture.

Home of “To Kill A Mockingbird” As Nelle Harper Lee writes of the fictional Maycomb (modeled after 1930s era Monroeville) in To Kill A Mockingbird, Maycomb was “an old town.” Monroeville was incorporated in 1899, and serves as the county seat of Monroe County, the ninth largest in land mass of Alabama’s counties.The county is rich in history. It was once about a third the size of the present state of Alabama, and is often referred to as the “mother county.” It was created in 1815 by proclamation of the Governor of the Mississippi Territory, and embraced all lands ceded by the Creek Indians at the Treaty of Fort Jackson. It was named for James Monroe, then Secretary of State, who later became President of the United States.

The original county seat, Claiborne, was the largest inland cotton port in Alabama at the time of the Civil War. It is now often referred to as a “lost town of Alabama.” Claiborne is gone, but it and its environs had a population of some 5,000 in the early 1900’s.The site of the town of Claiborne is on U. S. Highway 84, just west of Monro-

eville on the Alabama River. If you are traveling 84, as you go east from the Alabama River and Claiborne, you will come to the charming town of Perdue Hill, within a couple of miles of the Alabama River Bridge. In Perdue Hill, at the juncture of U. S. 84 and Alabama Highway 1, sits the Masonic Hall (circa 1823-1825).This historic structure used to be a part of the town of Claiborne, but was moved to Perdue Hill in the late 1800s.

Rich In History Other famous historic sites in Monroe County include Burnt Corn, which is east of Monroeville on the old Federal Road. Burnt Corn is the site of the outbreak of the Creek Indian War of 1814. It is today an almost intact turn of the century town, housing several early 1900’s commercial buildings and the Lowery Trust Store, a country store that is no longer operational, but which once sold everything from hoop cheese to hardware.

In north Monroe County, Beatrice and Vredenburgh give one the flavor of old logging communities.

Visiting Main Street in Beatrice, one can enjoy stepping back in time at the O. B. Finklea Store, which offers a marvelous mix of the old and the new. One may purchase modern day gifts and accessories as well as view an old Alabama “Heart of Dixie” license plate collection and an antique cigar cutter, as well as the store’s two rolling stock ladders.

Visitors to Beatrice will also enjoy stopping by Miss Minnie and Me Antiques and Gifts on Beatrice’s Main Street, and perhaps checking in to the charming Mary Elizabeth Stallworth Bed and Breakfast. Another small Monroe County community off U. S. 84, Excel, is the birthplace of Lee Roy Jordan, University of Alabama Football Great.

On “The Southern Literary Trail” Present day Monroe County has a population of 25,000, and Monro-

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eville, the county seat, has almost 7,000 residents. Monroeville’s claim to fame is the many writers who have called the town their home.

These include Nelle Harper Lee, who won a Pulitzer Prize for her novel, To Kill A Mockingbird. Her childhood friend and companion, the late Truman Capote, served as the model for Dill in To Kill A Mockingbird. Monroeville and its old courthouse, presently a museum, served as inspiration to both Lee and Capote: Lee modeled the fictional town of Maycomb after her hometown, while Capote’s works, A Christmas Memory, The Thanksgiving Visitor, and The Grass Harp,

all have references to a small southern town, and the “eccentric” courthouse clock.

If you are visiting Monroeville, be sure to inquire about one of the town’s historic walking tours., as well as its 10k Volkswalk.You may also want to take a trip to Rikard’s Mill, a restored grist mill and park north of the town of Beatrice. On the way to Rikard’s Mill Historical Park, be sure to visit “The Village of Buena Vista,” a turn of the century town.

For information on Monroeville/Monroe County, please contact the Chamber of Commerce at 251/743-2879, or visit www.monroecountyal.com.

66 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

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My husband has just returned from Iraq just over a week ago. He had to take 2 mandatory days off so we came down and stayed at the Palisades Resort on a whim. It was our first time and we liked it so much we returned for an additional 5 days! We plan to return again when my husband is able to take some block leave in a week or two. - Recent Military Guests

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By Brian Butler Director of Communications Freedom Marathon, Inc. The welcome banner will soon be flying high in the charming Florida town of Green Coves Springs.

Local citizens will welcome festival goers coming from cities throughout the Southeast United States to travel with their families and friends to the 2011 Memorial Day Riverfest. Hosted by the city of Green Cove Springs, the race and festival offer fun activities for the entire family. A new partnership between Freedom Marathon, Inc. and Green Cove Springs brings with it an expanded 8K race along the beautiful waterfront Orange Avenue course on the west bank of the St Johns River.

The new 8K Freedom Series at Green Cove Springs is designed to raise citizen awareness about the needs of veterans and their families.

Festival goers will have opportunities to acknowledge those who have sacrificed the most for our country. At the beginning of the day-long Memorial Day Riverfest and 8k race, families will be invited to participate in the opening ceremonies including a presentation of colors, a tribute to veterans and an invocation.The proceeds generated from the new 8K Freedom Series at Green Cove Springs will be used to provide access to services and assistance for veterans and their families.

The Freedom 8k Series at Green Cove Springs course will be certified by USA Track and Field (USATF).There will be a finisher’s commemorative medallion for all Freedom 8k finishers. In addition, awards will be offered to the top

three male/female finishers, top three male/female Wheel Chair Division finishers, top three Stroller finishers, top one male/female masters and grand masters.There is no cost to participate in the Kid’s Warrior Trot — Freedom Mile at 10:30 am. Each Freedom Mile participant will receive a finisher’s medallion.

Annual Memorial Day RiverFest at Spring Park Festival activities kick off after the 8K Freedom Series Race.This year changing facilities and showers will be open and available for runners who would like to freshen up and stay the rest of the day to enjoy the festival with their families. Festival goers will enjoy activities and events including live music and dance performances, Civil War Reenactments and much more.

Families will enjoy browsing arts and crafts booths, dining on dishes from a variety of fresh food vendors, and finishing the day watching a fireworks display finale over the St. John’s River.

Race organizer Freedom Marathon, Inc. offers diverse programs emphasizing physical fitness, health and wellness.Through these programs, people of all ages are encouraged to achieve their potential and successfully meet the challenges of work and life.

“We’re happy to partner with the citizens of Clay County to present the Inaugural Freedom 8k Race at Green Cove Springs as part of the Freedom Marathon 8K series.” Manny Cordero, CEO, Founder, and Executive Director Freedom Marathon, Inc. For more information, contact Info@ FreeedomMarathon.org.

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 67

Unforgetable holiday memories at Universal Celebrate the Season with Macy’s Holiday Parade, Grinchmas and an All-New Holiday Village Imagine cheerful holiday music floating on the brisk air. Children marveling at giant, colorful balloons passing overhead. Laughter from the crowd as The Grinch and the Whos share their timeless story live on stage. Imagine families sharing the spirit of the season together, experiencing exciting rides and attractions.There’s no better place to be for the holidays this year than Universal Orlando Resort.

This year’s holidays event runs December 4 through January 1, 2011, and offers guests incredible entertainment themed for the season at both its theme parks.

At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy’s Holiday Parade will fill the streets every evening with the same iconic balloons seen winding through New York City.The parade features colorful holiday characters, floats, balloons and a tree-lighting ceremony by Santa Claus.

At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, adults and children alike will be entertained when the popular Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is brought to life in Grinchmas. Guests can see a live

stage show featuring The Grinch and The Whos from Whoville with an original recorded musical score

by Mannheim Steamroller. Also, guests will have the opportunity to meet The Grinch and the strolling Whos, and on select dates, purchase a spot at a special character breakfast with The Grinch.

Guests can also enjoy the sounds of nightly a capella holiday music at Universal Studios. And, on December 4, 11 and 18, Mannheim Steamroller — the masters of Christmas music with more than 30 million albums sold worldwide — will play their memorable holiday music for guests on the Music Plaza stage. Guests can explore the nearby, all-new Holiday Village, filled with hand-blown glass ornaments, caramel apples, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts and a cupcake decorating location.

The celebration continues at Universal Orlando’s three on-site hotels — Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard

Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort - all of which will glisten with holiday decorations. Hotel guests will be immersed in the spir-

it of the season with tree-lighting ceremonies, special musical performances, holiday “dive-in” movie presentations and holiday buffets and dining events.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has kicked off the season with ‘Holiday Harbor Nights,’ a wine tasting, food and jazz celebration on the piazza. Hard Rock Hotel welcomes Santa to the Kitchen restaurant on Fridays in December and Loews Royal Pacific Resort rings in the new year with ALOHA 2011, a New Year’s Eve celebration, with a special kidsonly party right next door to the main event. Florida Residents can enjoy discounted rates at each of the three on-site hotels.

All holiday entertainment — including the Mannheim Steamroller concerts — is included as part of 2-Park or Multi-day admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

For more information on Universal Orlando’s holiday celebration and offers, guests can visit www.UniversalOrlando. com/Holidays.

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Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure returns for fifth year After four years of nearly sold out shows, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure returns to Central Florida for a fifth year.

The annual production provides a unique holiday twist to

the world’s most interactive dinner show as Magee the Elf fights valiantly to save Christmas and the Princess from the evil magistrate in a theater transformed into a winter wonderland from the 1800s.

New to this year’s festivities are Olga and Vladimir Smirnov who will add to the magical atmosphere of the pre-show. At the end of the show while snow is gentle fluttering to the ground inside the magically light theater there will be giant snowballs for the guests to play with!

As in years past, many of Pirate’s traditional interactions are redone with a holiday twist. From “pass the fruit cake” to “holiday gift toss,” Pirate team leaders enlist guests to join the fun in thrilling headto-head competitions pitting one audience group against another.

Over 150 guests each night will find themselves in the middle of the show as they don costumes and join the pirate action.

One of the top traditions in the Christmas show is when youngsters don uniforms and join in the March of the Toy Soldiers and help Magee save Christmas.The show ends will a spectacular, pyrotechnics-filled, audience-involving celebration and an appearance by Santa Claus Additional details include: • Show runs Nov. 26, 2010 to Jan. 6, 2011, with two shows on the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. • Includes a four-course meal • Costs $61.95 for adults and

$41.95 for children aged 3-11years.

About Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is owned and operated by Odien, Inc. and is the creation of artistic directors and brothers, Ramon and Antonio Riba of Spain. The main theater is comprised of tiered seating for 800 guests and the venue is available for private group events and functions. Renowned for 13 years in the dinner theater industry for exemplary service, facilities and first-class entertainment, the Orlando venue is located one block from world famous International Drive.

This venue is the prototype for brand expansion. A second Pirate’s Dinner Adventure has opened in Buena Park, California.

In 2010 Odien, Inc opened an completely new dining concept — Treasure Tavern, an extravagant variety show with fine dining.This dining experience for guests 18 and older has quickly become one of the top rated attractions in the Orlando area by Tripadvisor.com For further information, including show times, group rates or to book your reservations visit Pirate’s Dinner Adventure online at www.piratesdinneradventure.com or call toll free 800-866-2469.

For Treasure Tavern visit www.treasuretavern.com or call 877-318-2469

A place in Florida where heroes enjoy R & R with the family.

A place where you can watch penguins swim in the Zoo. A place where dinner at Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fish Camp is delish and kitsch.

70 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

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V isit Smart! V isit Richardson! Richardson, Texas offers small-town hospitality

Richardson, Texas is a great place for R&R. Your journey of discovery begins here and can be as expansive as the imaginaƟon allows. Discover the disƟnct personaliƟes, Ňavor and themes that Ňow within and around Richardson.

Just a short ride from Dallas without the big city prices.

With its central locaƟon just north of Dallas, Richardson conƟnues to be a favorite with visitors.

Enjoy the mulƟtude of professional, musical, dance comedy, theatrical events and fesƟvals held throughout the year.

Lots of relaxing walking and biking trails.

Richardson’s extensive park and trail system enables visitors to enjoy a natural seƫng as well as a diverse set of recreaƟonal acƟviƟes.

Richardson supports and welcomes our military!

Whether you’re a Įrst-Ɵme visitor or a long-term fan of the region, you’re sure to uncover something you’ll never forget!

888-690-7287 • 972-744-4034 www.richardsontexas.org

In a world that has become vastly automated, Richardson has found its place as a unique and sophisticated suburb featuring awardwinning family festivals, nationally ranked championship golf courses, 30 beautiful parks, more than 40 miles of hike and bike trails, worldclass entertainment and the new Huffhines Sports Complex, which boasts four 300-foot fenced tournament-quality softball fields and two auxiliary fields accommodating flag football, adult and youth soccer, and the new Breckenridge Baseball Complex, which is home to four baseball fields designed to accommodate tournament play for all ages and skill levels.

Known nationally as the Telecom Corridor® Area and home to more than 500 high-tech and telecommunications companies, Richardson has the benefit of being able to offer one-on-one, small-town customer service and warm Texas hospitality, while still offering the appeal, advantages and entertainment of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

Richardson is centrally located, only 15 miles north of downtown Dallas and is a vital part of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Richard-

son’s central location makes it easily accessible to major attractions and sporting venues. Four Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Light Rail stations give access to many entertainment, museums, restaurants and shopping areas in downtown Dallas. Also, Richardson is serviced by two major airports; Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Love Field.

Richardson has 14 hotels offering a total of 2,300 rooms and a variety of meeting facilities having space ranging from 525 to 203,000 square feet.The versatility of Richardson’s hotel and meeting spaces makes it an ideal place for planning events.

Additional venues and space available throughout the city include the Richardson Civic Center, with 13,800 square feet of meeting space; the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts and Corporate Presentations, featuring the 1,563 seat Hill Performance Hall; a smaller 395-seat Bank of America Theatre and the 3,000square-foot Bank of America Hall, and the Richardson Women’s Club featuring a 2,000-square-foot Clubhouse and the 2,200-square-foot

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No matter what time of year you plan to visit, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance you could find yourself amongst thousands of other festival goers taking in art, food, music and good times.

Richardson takes great pride in its award-winning festivals, which feature a variety of musical entertainment, one-of-a-kind food vendors and cafĂŠs, shopping, kid friendly fun, interactive displays, traditional crafts, and fine arts. Special yearly city events include the Wildflower!

Arts and Music Festival, the Cottonwood Art Festival, DadFest, Hobble Gobble, Wild Ride, Family Fourth Celebration and Huffhines Art Trails. Also, a variety of events and performances are offered each year by Richardson Arts Groups.

With more than 275 restaurants to choose from, dining options range from traditional American cuisines to exotic inter-

THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ 71

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national delicacies, and the cleanliness, friendliness, and safety of the neighborhood community makes Richardson a great destination to live, work, play and STAY! For more information contact Richardson Convention and Visitors Services, 972-744-4034 or 888-690-7287 or www. richardsontexas.org; Email: cvb@cor. gov.

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In Clearfield County bernate, i H t ’ D on Celebrate

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In the Backwoods, Backroads, Backwaters we think winter is one of the best seasons. Look to us to cure the winter blues.

Visit the unique shops, Fun Central and Parker Dam State Park.

We offer snowshoeing, sledding, cross country skiing and ice skating. You can also visit the wildlife museum, geocaching and looking for the wildlife.

There’s so much to do in ClearÄeld County you’ll want to come back again and again!

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Bay Area Houston offers fun for the entire family.

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The adventures are endless.

NM Museum of Space History Lincoln National Forest IMAX Dome Theater Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Alameda Zoo & Park Tularosa Basin Historical Museum Toy Train Depot and Museum Desert Lakes Golf Course Flickinger Center for the Performing Arts

Whatever floats your boat.

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Come experience Clarksville, Tennessee

By Robin Burton Clarksville Montgomery County Economic Development Council Nestled in the mountainous region of Middle Tennessee, Clarksville is a city full of personality and charm. No matter the season of the year, Clarksville-Montgomery County has something for the whole family to enjoy. Discover all that the town has to offer, including a thriving River District and Downtown, an internationally award winning festival and a Christmas light show.

Clarksville-Montgomery County has also had a long, successful relationship with the soldiers and their families stationed at Fort Campbell.

Clarksville strives to show constant support to members of the military and their families, with discounts being offered at many of the local businesses. On your next vacation, make plans to come to Clarksville and enjoy the festivals and events, stay at one of the many conveniently located hotels, dine at both local and chain eateries and shop ‘til you drop. You will be glad that you decided to come experience Clarksville.

The Cumberland River District On any given evening or weekend you are sure to see a buzz of activity at the Cumberland RiverWalk. It is the perfect destination for people who enjoy running, walking or boating. In 2011, Clarksville will also be welcoming its first mixed use community. Located on the river, the Clarksville Marina at Liberty Park will be home to boat slips, condos, retail shops and din-

ing establishments. The River is an excellent place for families who want to enjoy the outdoors while on their visit to Clarksville.

The River is also home to the annual Riverfest, this two day festival is in September of every year and offers free admission, a Tour d’Art, concerts, delicious food from local vendors, entertainment for kids of all ages and river related activities such as the Riverfest Regatta and the Lighted Boat Parade.You can learn more at www.clarksvilleriverfest.com Each year, the river district lights up for Christmas on the Cumberland. The free light show, located at McGregor Park, stretches for seventenths of a mile and runs from the end of November to the first of January. Vendors are located along the way selling concessions and pets are welcome to walk through the park during the light display. In the month of December, the City of Clarksville and the Clarksville Jaycees put on a Christmas parade you don’t want to miss. Full of colorful floats and local entertainment, the parade is the lead-in for the annual Downtown for the Holidays event, which is an evening of food, music and extended shopping hours at downtown businesses.

Downtown Downtown Clarksville sits next to the Cumberland River and is full of shopping, dining and entertainment options. There you have shops and boutiques that give you access to gifts that you are sure to (see RIVERS page 74)

Shop

Stay

DINE Let Shenandoah Serve You. Shenandoah offers more than 38 restaurants, seven hotels and a variety of retail shopping locations including Portofino Shopping Center and the Sam Moon Center. Shenandoah is proud to host the Footprints in Courage Museum in its new Visitors Center. An award-winning city, Shenandoah is located along the I-45 corridor, just 35 miles north of Houston and 20 minutes from Bush Intercontinental Airport.

We offer military discounts as low as $59/night. www.shenandoahtxcvb.com

THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 73

74 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TENNESSEE

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Rivers and Spires Festival

Come Join Us for a Little R&R

Historical Murals • Museums History • Waterfowl Hunting Tour FIsh Farms and more

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www.elcampochamber.com Jazz on the lawn: Clarksville’s local Beachaven Vineyards and Winery hosts Jazz On The Lawn every year from May through October.

(Continued from page 73)

Copperas Cove, Texas welcomes the 108th for R&R!

Copperas Cove offers numerous routes around our city that beckon you to relax and enjoy the countryside and wildlife.

We offer different bike routes for you and your family to choose from. Our back roads here in the foothills of the Texas Hill Country are virtually traf¿c-free. Come bike with us and enjoy our scenic routes and Texas hospitality.

Ride with our local riding team- “Team Roadkill” or venture on your own. Come and enjoy the bike routes in Copperas Cove.

FRONT DOOR OF THE CITY

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find nowhere else. Anchored by Franklin Street and Strawberry Alley, you will find an array of shopping opportunities ranging from antiques, clothing and jewelry to books and so much more. Every third Friday during the months of May through October, Strawberry Alley is also home to the free concert series, Jammin’ In The Alley.

During your stay in Clarksville you are sure to get hungry, but not to worry, there is a wide range of dining options to choose from.

From pizza, pasta and sandwiches to steak and seafood, casual or upscale, there is something for everybody. You will not only find the familiar chain restaurants that you love but also locally owned eateries that show off Clarksville’s culinary flair. Many of the dining establishments in the community are avid supporters of the military and offer

discounts on your meal, so be sure to ask.

While you are walking downtown make a stop at the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center,Tennessee’s second largest general museum. It will prove to be of interest to all ages and is a great place for kids to visit.The museum takes up an entire city block and houses art, history and science exhibits.To learn more about the Customs House and all the amazing and fun things it has to offer at www.customshousemuseum.org.

If you find that you and your family are theater buffs; then check out a show at the Roxy Regional Theater.The Roxy is one of Tennessee’s top tourist destinations and serves as Clarksville’s oldest regional theater.There you can see such classics as Charles Dickens,“A Christmas Carol” and Rogers and Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” as well

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 75

as original scripts written by some of Clarksville’s finest talent. To see what all will be playing while you are in town please visit www.roxyregionaltheatre.org

Rivers and Spires Festival From April 14 to 16, 2011, the award-winning Rivers and Spires Festival will transform the Clarksville downtown into an open air entertainment venue. Food, live music, kid’s activities and local artisans are a few of the attractions you will find during the three day festival.

With free admission, it is a great destination for the whole family.

While at Rivers and Spires there are several stages set up with a variety of music to be heard. No matter if your favorite genre of music is jazz, country or rock; there will be an act you are sure to like. Past headliners of Rivers and Spires include Lee Greenwood, Diamond Rio, Charlie Daniels Band and even an appearance by Clarksville native and former Miss USA, Rachel Smith!

The streets are lined with vendors selling all the food you love to indulge in at festivals; everything from frozen lemonade to hot dogs and funnel cakes.You can also get in some shopping while you are there. Be sure to stop one of the many tents that will be selling unique and many times locally made items that you will want to take back home with you.

While at Rivers and Spires you will also have the opportunity to experience wines made at Clarksville’s own award-winning Beachaven Vineyards and Winery at Jazz N Wine, which is Rivers & Spires annual wine tasting event.

Beachaven has a long history of supporting the community and offers events such as Jazz on the Lawn.This event takes place every year on select Saturday’s from May through October. With free admission, Jazz on the Lawn is an ideal destination for couples, friends and families looking to relax, have a picnic, listen to Jazz and enjoy locally made wines. For more information please visit www.beachavenwinery. com The Rivers and Spires Festival started in 2003 as a tribute to the returning soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Since then, it has continued to follow this heritage, with special tributes for the many soldiers from nearby Fort Campbell deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is a way that the people of Clarksville-Montgomery County can give back to the soldiers that have given so much.

For more information please visit www.riversandspires.com.

With all that Clarksville has to offer, why wouldn’t you want to plan your next vacation there? Visit the Convention and Visitors Bureau online to receive valuable information for planning your trip and a free visitor’s guide. Click www. clarksvillecvb.com or call 800-5302487 ext 574. Come and experience Clarksville, you will be glad you did!

Christmas on the Cumberland: From the end of November to January 1st, McGregor Park at the Cumberland River Lights Up With Over a Million Lights.

76 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

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Cache Valley, gateway to Yellowstone and Tetons Northern Utah’s Cache Valley is a winter wonderland for adventurers and families of all ages.

Just 90 miles north of Salt Lake City, the area is easily accessible from the international airport and is also a great gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Plan to stay in Logan, the largest of 22 towns in this beautiful mountain valley.This hub provides a great launching point for all your adventures.Take a sleigh ride through a herd of up to 600 elk at Hardware Ranch Elk Ref-

uge, just 30 minutes southeast of Logan in Blacksmith Fork Canyon.The refuge provides food for these magnificent animals during the winter months.This unforgettable and affordable experience brings you up close to view bulls and cows as they wander across the hillside.

Take a beautiful drive up Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway for downhill skiing or snowmobiling. Mountain elevations range between 6,000 and 10,000 feet and annual snowfall tops more than 400 inches. Hit

the slopes at Beaver Mountain Ski Resort, the longest running family-owned ski resort in the nation.There are plenty of runs for all skill levels, and the friendly skiers feel like family.

Just across the road is Beaver Creek Lodge, where you can walk straight out of your cozy room and jump on a snowmobile. Sleds and even winter clothes are available for rent.

Snowmobilers can take guided tours or venture on their own across more than 300 miles of groomed trails in some of the best snowmobiling in the United States.

Cache Valley provides plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fan-

store one’s treasure.”You’ll find plenty of hidden fortune in this high mountain agricultural valley known for outdoor adventures, hands-on heritage experiences, and performing and fine arts.

The city of Logan is the heart of Cache Valley and home to Utah State University, a dozen art galleries and specialty shops, unique restaurants, great examples of early Mormon pioneer architecture and the stunning 1923 Ellen Eccles Theatre, which hosts the renowned Utah Festival Opera company and other nationally touring productions.

While you’re in town, be sure to sample some of Cache Valley’s famous food products:

tastic bird-watching.There’s also indoor ice skating and hockey, and when weather permits, outdoor ice skating too. Access to the mountains is a quick 5-minute drive from downtown Logan.

Start your adventure in the city of Logan at the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau and Gift Shop, located in the beautifully restored 1883 courthouse.You can get plenty of materials to plan your stay and expert advice from the locals. Cache is pronounced “cash” and is a French word that means “to hide or

cheese, honey, ice cream, coffee, chocolates and raspberry jam to name a few. A variety of unique restaurants encompass tastes from Indian and Thai food to Mexican and Italian, as well as upscale steak and seafood.

There are a variety of live performance productions and festivals during the winter months.

Cache Valley Winter Getaway packages include dinner for two, a night in a hotel and breakfast, all starting from $59.99.

Log on to visitloganutah.com or call 800-882-4433 for more information.

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THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010 • 77

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It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year….at the Aquarium Fall has arrived and although the crowds have disappeared, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is still in full swing with their indoor and outdoor programs.

The Aquarium is now offering an Extended Behind the Scenes tour, which gives participants an opportunity to view the top of the Aquarium’s largest tank, the Cape Fear Shoals tank. Participants will receive a birds-eye view of sharks, stingrays, moray eels, and other fish as they swim below. Aquarists feed the animals during the tour, which offers a unique experience.The aquarium continues to offer the popular Surf Fishing Workshops.

Surf fishing workshops include one hour of classroom discussion, then surf fishing on the beach nearby. Pre-registration is required for all programs.

To pre-register for Aquarium programs call 910-458-7468.

Aquarium Special Events With the holidays right around the corner, the aquarium is gearing up for their special events that surround this time of year.The aquarium will be decking the halls during the popular Holiday Elf Camp, which gives children ages five to 10 years old the opportunity to become Santa’s little helpers!

The little elves will make gifts, wrap them, meet other elves, and create memories with new friends.This fun and educational program gives adults guilt-free time for kid-free holiday shopping or relaxation. Scuba Santa will make an appearance in Cape Fear Shoals throughout the month of December; visitors can watch him swim around the largest exhibit in the Aquarium during various dive programs.

One great gift idea for the holidays is purchasing a membership to the aquarium. Members receive unlimited free admission for one full year at all three North Carolina aquariums. Family memberships (and higher categories) provide free admission for two adults named on the card and their children or grandchildren under the age of 18. An aquarium membership also provides free admission to over 150 zoos and aquariums across the country, as well as discounts on rentals and gift shop purchases.

Membership prices and more information can be found on the Aquarium’s website, www. ncaquariums.com/membership.

The aquarium has been busy creating new exhibits for the public to enjoy! One new exhibit stars five tiny turtles. Baby tur-

tles were a popular request from visitors, so aquarium staff created a permanent exhibit within the existing box turtle exhibit to house the turtles, ranging in age from one to two years old.The baby box turtles are offspring from the adults on exhibit.The eggs were removed from the nest and placed in an incubator to hatch. Otherwise, if the babies hatched on exhibit, they hide so well, it is hard to find them to make sure they eat enough.

The juveniles are fed a mix of fruit, vegetables, and turtle gel.

They are also fed earth and meal worms for added nutrition.The garden has also been given a new edition, with the creation of a carnivorous plant garden.The garden was created by volunteer Jake West for his Eagle Scout project, and features several carnivorous plants, including the Venus flytrap, which is primarily found in the New Hanover County area.

Luna, the albino alligator has now been with the Aquarium for over a year! She has grown in size and popularity over the past year; visitors still come from near and far to visit her and receive their very own,“I Met Luna” sticker. Children and adults alike still love to view Luna as she basks in the shade or takes a break on her infamous log.

The NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is available for rental during and after-hours depending upon scheduled programs and activities at the Aquarium. Our facilities can accommodate up to 2,000 guests, depending on your group’s requirements and functions. An auditorium, conference room, classrooms, and an outdoor garden deck are available, as well as other facilities for rental.

The North Carolina Aquariums participate in the Military Voucher Program. Active duty and retired military personnel can purchase tickets at a discounted rate from many Tickets and Tours Offices at military bases nationwide.Tickets must be purchased in advance to receive a discount. Contact the facilities closest to you for ticket prices or additional information.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher is located just south of Kure Beach, near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, on U.S. 421.The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s days). Admission: $8 Ages 13-61, $7 Ages 62 and up, $6 Ages 3-12, Free for children 2 and under, NC Aquarium Society members

and pre-registered North Carolina school groups. General information: www.ncaquariums.com/fortfisher.

The state’s three public aquariums are located at Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll Shores, and Roanoke Island. Administered by the N.C.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the aquariums are designed to inspire appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments. General information: www.ncaquariums.com.

The Holiday Inn University Executive Park is proud to offer special military rates for all of our Soldiers traveling to the Charlotte area.

Complimentary Wi-Fi Executive Level 173 Guest Rooms and 1 Suite 24 Hour Fitness Center University Patio and Grille Full Business Center Holiday Inn University Executive Park 8520 University Executive Park Drive • Charlotte, NC 28262 704-547-0999 • www.hicharlotteu.com Located off exit 45A on I-85 off of W.T. Harris Blvd.

Thomasville, NC — A Great Place for R&R

+ Home of the North Carolina Vietnam Veterans Memorial + Historic Walking Trails + Unique Civil War Cemetary

From where we sit you can see it all!

Thomasville Tourism • 800-611-9907 • www.thomasvilletourism.com

78 • THE GRIFFON • Winter 2010

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Living history on the Waccamaw River

By Carl White Kingston Township was named in honor of Great Britain’s King George II and officially opened for settlement on February 26, 1734.

This was part of South Carolina Governor Robert Johnson’s “Township Scheme” to increase security within 100 miles from Charleston along the waterways. Among the first were the “Poor Protestants from Ireland” that chose to make their new life in Kingston Township.The lands were marked by sprawling groves of life oaks trees, pine woodlands, a maze of swamp-

land, numerous wildlife and a dark and lazy river know as Waccamaw.

While a new life was starting for new arrivals, it was the Native Americans who first inhabited the lands.The Waccamaws used speedy dugouts and the Waccamaw River was part of the waterways highways. It would be this same notion, albeit with larger boats that would eventually bring successful development and prosperity to the area.

In 1801 Kingston Township was renamed Conwayborough after Robert Conway.The name would soon be shortened to Conway. It was in the 1820’s that riverboats

had become active in commercial trade, shipping cotton, rice, and exporting timber and naval stores.

The riverboat business would soon be at the core of it all.

As time moved forward, the people of Conway proved to be great visionaries for education, commerce and the preservation of nature.

One visionary was Conway citizen Franklin G. Burroughs who formed a business partnership with Benjamin Grier Collins.This new company had interests in timber, farm credit, consumer goods, riverboats and eventually, the first railway through the swamps of Horry County to the beaches of what are today Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand.

Today, Conway demonstrates a commitment to preserve its past as well as an educational vision for its future. Conway has a successful Main Street USA program that provides a look at a thriving southern river town. As you walk the streets of Historic Conway you can stop for a great lunch, coffee or dinner.

The theater of the Republic produces frequent theatrical performances which offer a great example of small town theater done well.

Conway’s history of protecting its Live Oak trees dates back to the 1880’s and today the city has a tree ordinance designed to protect what they refer to as their “Oldest Citizens.”A Live Oak Guide book is available and the tour can easily take two to four hours with stops and photos.The Wade Hampton Oak and The Alligator Oak are

among the favorites.

The Waccamaw River is great natural attraction. It flows approximately 140 miles from its headwa-

ters in the Lake Waccamaw area of North Carolina. Several extensive wetlands around the lake, most notably the Green Swamp, contribute water to streams flowing into the river.This easy flowing water trail is ideal for canoeing and kayaking and provides habitat for a collection of diverse and rare flora and fauna.

In keeping with the natural flow of the river, a meandering walkway makes its way along the river front of historic Conway.This is a great opportunity to be close to the river and enjoy nature’s beauty. A kayak rental is available on the waterfront.

The Larry Paul Living Farm is part of the Horry County Museum system and is a great addition to your family vacation.The farm offers a look at a period working farm with many exhibits and volunteers in period attire to provide good interaction. Admission is free and the visit can take two to four hours.

For more information on Historic Conway: www.conwaymainstreet.com or www.conwayscchamber.com

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Redefining adventure — Berkeley County If you’re looking for the “Southern Jewel” everyone is talking about, you’ve finally found it! Berkeley County, South Carolina, locat-

cradled in what is quickly becoming known as the “emerging new south” and offers visitors a 12,000 year old education.

Churches and History

ed just minutes from Downtown Charleston and 1 ½ hours from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is

Berkeley County is rich in history, and legends. Many who visit the area tour the historical churches located throughout the county.These churches date back from the 1700s and have been immaculately maintained so locals and visitors can step back into time.The St. Stephen Episcopal Church dates back to the early 1700s and has been preserved in original condition.The church features beautiful stained glass windows and original woodwork throughout.

Visitors can view Strawberry Chapel’s holding tombs and also hear the infamous story of “Little Miss Chicken.”As legend tells it, back in the 1700’s, a teacher tied a young girl to one of the tombstones overnight… (we don’t want to spoil it for you so you will have to visit to catch the rest of

the story!)

When viewing the St. James Church in Goose Creek, South Carolina, you will be transported to the time when ladies wore flowing gowns and men wore long tails and vests. Other area churches afford visitors the opportunity to experience the “feeling” during the time when our nation was young and just becoming established. Please contact the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce for more information as church tours are by reservation only.

Seasonal Activities If you visit during the fall, the six-

We Specialize in Military Reunions Complimentary Downtown Shuttle

acre West Farm Corn Maze offers over three miles of winding trails.

After finding your way out of this wondrous maze, go pick a pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch, find your way through the Hay Bale Maze, take an authentic, downhome hayride, and stroll down Scarecrow Alley.The West Farm Corn Maze also features a play area and Farm Zoo for our youngest visitors.

For more information about Berkeley County, call the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce at 843-7618238, or visit www.berkeleysc.org.

Mentioning this article entitles you to special group discounts.

Military Appreciation Special 25% off!

Complimentary Parking Full Service Restaurant & Lounge Outdoor Pool State-of-the-Art Fitness Center Free High-Speed Wireless Internet Access Express Check-Out

Charleston Riverview 843.556.7100 Q 800.766.4451 www.hiriverview.com

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Charleston and the Ashley River from the Harborview Restarant & Lounge located on the top floor.

301 Savannah Highway Q Charleston, SC 29407

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Be part of the story at Colonial Williamsburg Colonial Williamsburg offers visitors unique opportunities to discover 18th century life in colonial Virginia. By visiting this beautifully restored 18th century town, guests will have the opportunity to learn firsthand, about the roots of American independence.

From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the political, social and cultural capital of Great Britain’s largest, wealthiest and most populous colony.The Hall of the House of Burgesses at the Capitol echoes with the voices of Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry and other Virginia leaders who debated the issues of freedom and liberty for Virginians.

Stores, shops and taverns along Duke of Gloucester Street bustle with activity. Stop in at the Pasteur and Galt Apothecary Shop and learn about the latest 18th century health care techniques. At the Golden Ball Silversmith Shop, watch skilled craftspeople turn bars of silver into goblets, pitchers, and other exquisite objects.The silversmith is one of nearly two dozen trades that demonstrate the daily work of many 18th century working Americans. At the courthouse, you might be invited to be a witness, defendant or judge in a re-creation of a court case from the 1700s. And while you are there, don’t forget to have your picture taken in the

Washington’s largest ski resort is proud to offer Military Appreciation Days Show your valid Military ID For a half-off lift ticket on Tuesday, January 4, 2011 Wednesday, February 9, 2011 Friday, March 11, 2011 Sunday, April 3, 2011 Military discounts also available daily at www.skicrystal.com

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stocks or pillory!

Across the street is the Magazine, scene of the Gunpowder Incident of April 1775, in which British marines removed the colony’s powder under orders from Lord Dunmore.This incident galvanized the colonists and threatened to launch Virginia into war. Learn about the life of an 18th century soldier. At the Magazine you may be enlisted to join Williamsburg’s independent company, given a “weapon” and drilled in the finer points of marching.

Young visitors will especially enjoy the James Geddy House and Foundry, where they learn about 18th century family life and household activities from costumed interpreters their own age.They may even be invited to try their hand at writing with a quill pen or playing a colonial game.

The Governor’s Palace, reconstructed in 1934 on its original foundations, is one of the most popular exhibition building in the historic area. Everything about the Palace, from its position at the head of Palace Green to the furnishings of its rooms, makes a statement about its residents’ power and position in the colony.The palace served as the home of seven royal governors and Virginia’s first two state governors: Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. Currently, it is presented as the

home of Lord Dunmore, Virginia’s last royal governor.

After you have toured the palace, be sure to examine the beautiful gardens that surround it, including the maze. On the grounds, stop by the Palace Kitchen, where Colonial Williamsburg’s food historians use Dutch ovens, the rotisserie and other open-hearth cooking techniques from the 1700s to prepare food.

Be sure to take part in Revolutionary City®, a daily two-hour interactive presentation telling the story of the transformation of Americans — from subjects of a distant monarch to citizens of a self-governing nation. Woven throughout is the story of African Americans and their struggles to be free and independent.

Spend time in the historic area during the evening with walking tours, musical programs and other 18th century diversions. Dine in our historic taverns and enjoy a delicious meal and a culturally rich experience as balladeers entertain guests with stories and tunes. Programs and activities in the historic area vary seasonally.“ Colonial Williamsburg is open 365 days a year and offers admission passes to suit every need.

Visit our website at colonialwilliamsburg.com or call 800-447-8679 for information.

Hear freedom ring this season.

The holidays are all about traditions. Well let’s go to a place where the holiday traditions have been 25o years in the making.

Let’s walk the streets where our founding fathers walked, with their all-natural holiday displays. Let’s attend the Grand Illumination.

Let’s watch the firing of the Christmas guns. And then discover a long~forgotten world of colonial sights, sounds, and tastes.

Let’s make this holiday season one to remember and come away with a whole new appreciation for the country we hold so dear.

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To plan your trip or get more information, call 1~800~361~7241 or visit colonialwilliamsburg.com Stop by your local MWR or ITT office to obtain a special military discount.

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Front Royal — northern gateway to Shenandoahs Embrace winter and all its beauty this year in Front Royal, Virginia.

Front Royal is recognized as the northern Gateway to Shenandoah National Park and the Canoe Capital of Virginia. Steeped in rich history and natural beauty, this thriving community boasts attractions and amenities for everyone — all within a stone’s throw of the Nation’s Capital. Major attractions include Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive, Skyline Caverns and Historic Downtown.

Shenandoah National Park “…with the smell of the woods, and the wind in the trees, they will forget the rush and strain of all the other long weeks of the year, and for a short time at least, the days will be good for their hearts and for their souls.” President Franklin Roosevelt at the dedication of Shenandoah National Park in 1936 Miles of parkland make exploring nature in the winter months rewarding. Shenandoah National Park offers miles of outdoor adventure to get your heart pumping and your new year’s resolution on track.The clear skies and bare trees of winter enhance the area’s magnificent vistas and make wildlife tracking and viewing particularly rewarding.

Encompassing 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians, Shenandoah National Park showcases dramatic views from atop its mountain crests and thickly wooded forests best accessed via hiking trails such as the internationally known Appalachian Trail. Front Royal stands as the northern gateway to the Park and Skyline Drive, offering visitors a wilderness oasis only minutes from the intersection of Interstates 81 and 66 and just 70 miles from Washington, D.C. Shenandoah National Park honors its 75th anniversary in 2011 with a yearlong celebration that includes special activities in the Park and its surrounding communities.

Visit the official anniversary website at www.celebrateshenandoah. org for information on communities, events, and partners involved in celebrating one of the nation’s most treasured places.

Skyline Caverns Skyline Caverns, located in Front Royal, VA is the closest natural wonder to the Nation’s Capital. As one of the only places on Earth where rare Anthodites are displayed, the guided tour is as impressive as it is educational. Whether it’s your first time underground, or whether you’re an expert, a knowledgeable guide will escort you though the caverns, explaining the geological history while challenging your imagination, making your tour educational, exciting, and entertaining.

You will witness Mother Nature continuing her meticulous work, even today, on the formation of the exquisite creation.The dripping of water you find throughout the caverns is a reminder of this constant growth, the beauty of which is shared with thousands of wideeyed visitors each year. A warm welcome to Skyline Caverns is extended to you year round.The temperature in the caverns is always a comfortable 54 degrees, no matter what the weather is like outside.

Downtown Front Royal Front Royal’s historic Downtown boasts a dynamic mix of historical attractions, shopping treasures, and dining options. Known for its small town charm and warm hospitality, the Downtown has flourished after a revitalization project in the 1980s transformed the grassy area near the landmark Gazebo into the Village Commons — a focal point for festivals and entertainment.

R and R Front Royal’s hospitality shines bright at our delightful bed and breakfasts. Enjoy comfort and generosity by innkeepers that have taken every detail into account to ensure your stay is special. Or, spend a weekend or a week in a cozy cabin, loaded with all the comforts of home but tucked away on a rural mountainside.

Plan your stay and discover more about the Town’s historic treasures, natural wonders, and community spirit.

For more information visit www. discoverfrontroyal.com or call 800-3382576.

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In 1989, the Secretary of the Army designated Morganʼs Grove as the birthplace of the United States Army.

Remembering Their Valor, Fidelity and SacriÅce Discover The National D-Day Memorial, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains and the town that lost the most citizens per-capita in the United States at D-Day. The Memorial honors the Americans and all of the Allied forces involved. Near The Memorial is Thomas Jefferson’s retreat Poplar Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Smith Mountain Lake and the Booker T. Washington National Monument.

Open daily except on Mondays.

Bedford Welcome Center • Bedford, VA 877-447-3257 • www.visitbedford.com

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