Guardian East

Waffle house page 16 therapist aids locals page 11

proud to become an american page 3

GUARDIAN east July 2011, Vol. 19, Issue 11

The official magazine of Multinational Battle Group East

Contents 3 6 10 13 14 15 17

Therapist assists locals KFOR Physical therapist teaches local doctors techniques.

Meet Task Force Aviation Aviation personnel fly, maintain aircraft and plan missions within Kosovo Forces.

Proud to become an American Infantryman earns citizenship

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Joint patrols forge friendships Joint Impementation Committee and Serbian Armed Forces patrol together

Task Force Aviation Meet the mutliple units under the Task Force Aviation umbrella Mechanics keep helicopters flying Aviation mechanics maintain Blackhawks, keep them in top shape Training up Mechanics, medics train to progress to crew chiefs, flight medics Gift of language Aviation personnel volunteer free time, experience to teach local children English

Crew chief shares experience Staff Sgt. Frank Palfrey’s 21 years in the Guard aids both mission and Soldiers Balkan Club Bondsteel club explores mysteries of the region, host local experts DANCON march Participants walked 26km, continued longstanding tradition Get your game on Multiple options for comaraderie, games with Morale, Welfare and Recreation Independence Day highlights The weekend was full of activities * Editor’s note: A special thanks Spc. Lucretia Wilcox, our Aviation Unit Public Affairs Representative, for all the assistance for this month’s magazine. Thanks!

200th Public Affairs Detachment Commander 1st Lt. Casey Staheli

Commanding Officer, MNBG E Col. Michael D. Schwartz

Editor, Photojournalist Staff Sgt. Anna Doo

Command Sergeant Major, MNBG E Command Sgt. Maj. Abel Villesca

Layout, Photojournalist Spc. Evan Lane

Public Affairs Officer, MNBG E 1st Lt. Valerie Palacios

Front cover: Sgt. Drew Bailey, a flight medic with the 1-169th Medical Detachment, recovers a Soldier with the jungle penetrator hoist system during Readiness Level training at Camp Bonsteel, Kosovo.

flickr.com/photos/kfor-14

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Fitness Legal Safety Chaplain

MNBG E Commander and CSM

Balkan Hawk exercise Multinational contingencies and local first responders quell simulated riot

Back Cover: Members of the 666th Explosives Ordinance Disposal company quarantine suspected ordinance during a training excercise at Camp Bondsteel, Ksoovo. The Soldiers donned MOPP-4 level equipment to protect them from simulated chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. MOPP is an acronym for Mission Oriented Protective Posture.

ays after America celebrated her 235th birthday, Pfc. Jose Manuel Valdez was sworn in as a citizen of the U.S. in a ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Pristina July 7, 2011.

Photojournalist Spc. John A Montoya, Jr.

“Guardian East is produced for personnel of MNBG E, and is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of Guardian East are not necessarily the official views of the U.S. government, the Department of the Army, 111th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, or MNBG E.”

facebook.com/KFOR.MNBG.East

Broadcast Journalist Pfc. David Sherwood Photo Credits for editorials: Safety, Legal, Chaplain: Staff Sgt. Anna Doo

youtube.com/KFORPAO

his civilian job as a supervisor with Penasco Valley Telecommunications.

“Just the fact of being able to vote, and looking down the road toward jobs in law enforcement or border patrol are the best reasons to get citizenship,” Valdez said. “I’m looking forward to reenlisting, do at least three more years and then we’ll go from there.”

Valdez, an infantryman with the U.S. contingent of Kosovo Forces 14 rotation had been working on the administrative process to officially become a citizen for about 6 months and completed the interview and Valdez said he had been preofficial ceremony while on a year- paring for the interview process long deployment to Kosovo. and the ceremony since he learned the application paperThe process to obtain citizenwork was complete. Before the ship for Valdez, who has already ceremony, Valdez said, “I’m not been living in the U.S. for more nervous about the ceremony, I’m than twenty two years, was rela- actually nervous about the intertively quick. Valdez said he was view process; I don’t know what relocated to California from his that’s going to be like.” birthplace of Ceballos Durango, Mexico, when he was just two With the application complete years old. He lived in California and the interview process behind for the next eleven years and then him, Valdez stood in front of the moved to Roswell, N.M., where he American flag ready to take the has spent the past twelve years.

Oath of Allegiance. MNBG-E Commander, Col. Michael D. Schwartz, Valdez enlisted in the U.S. and U.S. Ambassador to the Army in March 2007 and has been Republic of Kosovo, Christopher an infantryman ever since. He W. Dell assisted Valdez in the said his cousin was in the milifinal steps to becoming a citizen. tary and while on a tour to Iraq Pamela Hutchings, U.S. Citizenearned his citizenship. Learning ship and Immigration Services that soldiers serving in the miliField Office Director Vienna, tary, while on deployment, can administered the Oath of Alleearn citizenship prompted Valdez’ giance to Valdez who repeated interest in travelling the same each word. Valdez was presented path to naturalization. Valdez is with a certificate and received currently serving in C. Company, congratulatory remarks and 1-200th Infantry based in Las well wishes from both Dell and Cruces, N.M., as part of KFOR14 in Schwartz.

Multinational Battle Group East.

“We are all glad you took the The reasons for Valdez to work effort, and took that leap, and did toward citizenship were numerall the things you needed to do ous, but a couple stood above the to become a citizen of the United rest. Valdez said he wanted to States of America,” said Schwartz. make sure he prepares for future possibilities and is eligible for Schwartz then presented Valas many jobs as possible. He is dez with two commander’s coins; looking forward to being able to one from pre-mobilization from plan for the future. Right now, he N.M. and one from the deployplans to complete this current ment in Kosovo. tour of duty and return home to

Pfc. Jose Manuel Valdez recites the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Pristina, Kosovo, July 7, 2011. Valdez from Roswell, N.M., is an infantryman with C. Co. 1-200th Infantry based in Las Cruces, N.M.

Dell echoed Schwartz remarks and the satisfaction and pleasure those in attendance were feeling on the occasion.

“You had a choice, a choice that you exercised to become an American,” said Dell. “We are all extremely proud of you; proud of your service, grateful for it, and very simply proud to call you an American.”

Finally, Valdez full of conviction and pride, led his fellow soldiers in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. His platoon sergeant, Staff Sgt. Luis R. Sandoval summed up the occasion with a few words.

“Every time you have somebody that looks for citizenship, especially someone who’s been in the U.S. for his whole life, it’s just something special,” said Sandoval.

“Especially with him being a soldier and serving his country, it’s just a perk for him. He’s already an American; he’s lived his whole life in the U.S. and he’s serving his country and now he can voice his opinion by voting. One more great American Soldier.”

The End

Waffle House Breakfast served with a smile, donations help local student’s learn English

story and photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo

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Proud to become an American

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MNBG E Commander CSM

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reetings team! We are about four months into the operational mission in Kosovo and have already accomplished a number of very important milestones. Our explosive ordnance disposal team is now providing oversight of the Kosovo Security Forces in EOD response. The operations in Northern Kosovo are progressing at a rapid pace. The operational tempo for our northern units has increased exponentially in the last 90 days with a corresponding decrease in criminal activity. The Liaison Monitoring Teams have developed excellent models for measuring atmospherics in their respective areas of operation. We have synchronized operations across three Joint Regional Detachment areas of operation. Command Sgt. Maj. Villesca and fellow noncommissioned officers have developed excellent individual training for KSF. Our multinational partners are fully operational and provide great value to the overall task force.

The communication and cooperation between and among the task force members are well established.

We have successfully trained every national contingent on medical evacuation and crowd and riot control aviation operations. I could go on and on!

We are definitely out of the talking, discussing, meeting, planning mode, which one can easily get stuck in while conducting these types of operations, and are well into the action mode! Our accomplishments are like training for a foot race. It does not seem like you are getting anywhere day to day, but when you look back, the improvements over time are very impressive.

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As we discussed in the town hall meeting the first week of July, this is the time in the rotation we tend to become complacent and relaxed in our actions and thoughts. We must continually strive to remain vigilant in searching for new and better ways to accomplish our tasks instead of falling into the daily rut, which is the easy and natural thing to do. As with any lengthy deployment, it is important to take advantage of your leave and pass periods in order to rejuvenate your body and soul and reconnect with family. It is time for battle buddies, fellow Soldiers, supervisors, and subordinates at all levels to be especially keen in observing changes in Soldiers who may become emotionally or physically isolated, or both. We are initiating a series of workshops to make members aware of stressors and become adept at dealing with them. Specifically, we are initiating programs on reintegration with

Key points from the Commander: • Out of the talking, discussing, meeting mode, well into action mode • Strive to remain vigilant • Be keen in observing changes in Soldiers • Reintegration, family, financial, resiliency training upcoming

Key points from the CSM: • Performance has been outstanding • Don’t let the Dog Days of summer get to you • Ensure Soldiers are hydrating, resting, eating properly • Remember the Golden Rule

mission. It’s up to you as individuals to ensure your buddy is resting and eating properly.

Col. Michael D. Schwartz, commanding family and financial workshops. Resiliency training is also on the horizon. Again, as we discussed in the recent town hall meeting, Soldiers have the best and most innovative ideas so we need them in order to make sure this deployment is productive from an operational and Soldier perspective. I often remind myself of the motto I read when entering the grounds of the Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course at Fort Stewart, Georgia in 1982.

It stated “mission first, Soldiers always.” I don’t think those two concepts are incongruous, so help us to make sure we remain focused on the mission while ensuring our Soldiers are always treated with respect and dignity. Every Soldier matters!

Although I have stated this in many past remarks, I will say it again and again as I always do to every visitor I meet. I am truly proud of the group of Soldiers we have in this formation, not only our U.S. Soldiers, but our multinational contingent. Many of us, including myself, have made friends for a lifetime with Soldiers, citizens in Kosovo, and others who enter our daily lives. Treasure these moments; they are truly special. I have every expectation the Soldiers of Multinational Battle Group East will continue to perform “beyond the standard” and return home with a sense of accomplishment and pride over the small, yet very important part of history we have been very fortunate to have been a part of. With that, we each have a responsibility to continue to work hard, remain focused, and enjoy the experience.

“Bata a n

~

Never

Broken”

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Command Sgt. Maj. Abel Villesca

n July we enter the period often called the “Dog Days of Summer.” July also marks the seventh month of our mobilization and the July 18 marked the fourth month in Kosovo. Many literary references speak to the Dog Days as a time when anger and frustration rise; people become lazy and are afflicted with “burning fevers, hysterics, and frenzies.” *

As the days become warmer and longer we need to ensure that our Soldiers stay hydrated and manage periods of physical labor and exercise according to the guidance associated with each of the heat categories. In addition to that, supervisors and battle buddies must ensure that all Soldiers are hydrating, eating properly and getting enough rest to safely accomplish the mission. We’ve had a number of cases of Soldiers ending up in the hospital with conditions that are exacerbated by dehydration. Some of those cases could have been avoided with proper rest, diet and hydration.

Many Soldiers are taking advantage of this rotation to develop their physical fitness. I know that many of you are taking nutritional supplements and substituting protein shakes for meals. If that sounds like you, remember that although supplements and protein or diet drinks might accelerate your progress to your goals, you need to take care of yourself and each other to ensure your eating habits don’t put you at risk for a heat injury or other illness. Your first sergeants and first line leaders will be ensuring you drink enough water while on

One of the things I hear often while talking to Soldiers is, “the deployment is almost over,” and “we’re over half way through.” That is true and there is a lot of the “scent of the barn door” floating around. Perhaps scent of the doggy door would be more in line with my opening remarks. Though we are more than half way through the mobilization we’re not quite half way through our time here in Kosovo. To date your performance has been outstanding. Commanders and staff at EUCOM, USAREUR and KFOR HQ have all complimented you for the excellent manner in which you accomplish every mission that we are tasked with. Col. Schwartz and I are very grateful for your superior work, behavior and discipline.

It’s hot and it is late in the deployment and we’re all vulnerable to the laziness (complacency), burning fevers (heat injuries), hysterics (short tempers and frustration), and frenzies (bad behavior, breach of discipline and tantrums) associated with the “Dog Days of Summer.” It is said of the Dog Days that, “people are led to do things they are sure to be sorry for after.” ** I don’t want that to be the case for any of you and I encourage you to keep in mind that the things you say to and about each other can cause irreparable harm to your relationships with fellow Soldiers, the organization as a whole and the morale and spirit of individuals.

Let’s continue to build on our outstanding reputation by Soldiering together, keeping a positive attitude and exceeding the standard. We’re all part of the same team and one big family.

* Brady, J: “Clavis Calendaria”, vol. II, page 89. Nichols, Son, and Bentley, 1815 ** Babbitt, N: “Tuck Everlasting” Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1975

“Bata a n

~

Never

Broken”

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TestBalkan with text Hawk Exercise KFOR, KSF, EULEX show capabilities, practice contingency plans

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story and photos by Spc. John A. Montoya

Mock demonstrators from the Ukraine Contingency tested the EULEX riot control police, the Italian Carabinieri Police, and the Turkish Contingency’s riot control unit. The mock riot escalated from a demonstration into a full blown panic scenario, with car tires being thrown and a general melee ensued.

Forces from the Kosovo Forces Tactical Reserve Maneuver Battalion, or KTM, re-enforced both sides of the riot. KTM is made up of Hungarian and Portuguese Contingencies highly trained in riot control. Soldier’s from the

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Hungarian Contingency fell into the rioting crowd and escalated the riot to another level. The Hungarians, playing the rioters, used different tactics to make their force more difficult to deal with, such as working in unison and blocking the road by lying passively on the ground and forcing the riot control to arrest individuals.

medics tended to a U.S. Soldier who was acting as a casualty. The casualty was quickly cared for by the KSF medics, then moved to the awaiting U.S. Army helicopter for evacuation.

While the main riot control exercise was taking place, the KSF explosive ordnance disposal team also discovered a dummy bomb in the area and responded The Portuguese, along with to it swiftly and efficiently. The additional Turkish forces flown KSF EOD specialist demonstrated in on U.S. helicopters, helped to the proper procedure of identifydisperse the main body of the riot ing explosives and disposing of and arrested individual rioters them safely. who refused to comply with their orders. After the riot was disThe event demonstrated KSF’s persed the arrested rioter were capabilities of working with handed over to EULEX police.

Kosovo Forces and EULEX, but it also shows the progress the KSF After the riot was quelled, the has made towards handling unexKosovo Security Forces (KSF) ploded ordinance and fighting arrived on the scene and used fires. The people in Kosovo have their fire truck to extinguish a force capable of keeping the the tire fire started by the mob. peace and clearing the remaining Once the fire was doused the KSF ordinance in the country.

Above: KSF medical professionals asses a notional casualty of the rioting crowd. They dressed the U.S. Army Soldier’s wounds and carried him to an awaiting UH-60 Blackhawk for transportation to Camp Bondsteel.

Left: A KSF Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist demonstrates the proper procedures for identifying unexploded ordnance. While keeping onlookers at a safe distance away, the EOD professionals are able to package and transport, or safely detonate in place any found munitions.

Opposite page: Rioters fight back against the Turkish contingency forces sent out to quell the crowd as part of the Balkan Hawk exercise June 29, 2011.

Kosovo Forces, Kosovo Security Forces and European Rule of Law personnel jointly participated to quickly stop the demonstration. (U.S. Army photos

by Spc. John Montoya Jr.)

Below: KSF use their firefighting equipment to douse a tire fire set by the simulated rioters. The KSF was called out to work with the multinational troops to assist with securing the safety of local citizens. Exercises such as this one serve to identify strengths and areas of improvements for working jointly.

(U.S. Army photos by Spc. John Montoya Jr.)

The End

osovo Security Forces, Kosovo Forces soldiers and European Rule of Law (EULEX) police participated in a joint exercise which highlighted the capabilities of these multiple forces in responding to a joint event on June 29 at Camp Vrelo, Kosovo.

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Meet Task Force Aviation

chip bartos

deric nelan

Q: How long have you been in the Guard?

A: Three years.

Q: What do you think of Kosovo so far?

A: The terrain and the hills remind me a lot of home.

Q: Why did you choose this job?

A: Because I wanted to do something with aviation. Maybe someday I’ll eventually become a pilot.

Q: What do you do for fun back home?

story and photos by Spc. John A. Montoya

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ask Force Aviation gives Kosovo Forces an unmatched asset in air mobility in Kosovo.

There is no worry about traffic on the ground, the helicopters are above ready to respond to any trouble there may be. It is the one form of transport which can move Soldiers across Kosovo in less than hour and drop them off almost exactly where they need to be.

The Soldiers of Task Force Aviation keep the helicopters ready at a moment’s notice.

From the mechanics to the pilots and crew chiefs, there are a lot of Soldier’s involved in keeping the helicopters in the air and performing their duties for the mission. Here are some of those Soldiers who keep the helicopters ready to fly, and those who fly them.

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jenny lazarchik Q: How long have you been in the Guard?

A: 12 years.

Q: Why did you decide to join the Guard?

A: I was bored one day and I was talking to one of my friends and she had just joined. I was like ‘Oh, Okay. I’ll join too.’ And I did, the next day or several days after that. I always wanted to fly and when it came to pick the branches there was nothing else that compared to aviation. It was my number one choice.

Q: What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done in Kosovo, so far?

A: I landed on Big Duke [Mt. Ljuboten] and then flew over Immersion Lake. So you come down and land near a little lake and the lake is surrounded by cliffs on three sides, so it looks like you’re in a little crater, it’s pretty cool.

A: I play college football for a small university in Nebraska.

Q: What’s the most interesting part about being in aviation?

A: Personally I just enjoy being around aircraft. It’s something that I’ve had an interest in since I was a little kid, so I finally get to do that. That’s probably the coolest thing.

Q: Where’s home for you?

christopher harter Q: How long have you been in the National Guard?

A: Almost ten years.

Q: Why did you choose to come to Kosovo?

A: I was told. As soon as I got off a deployment I got back and they said ‘you’re going with us’.

Q: What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done in Kosovo?

A: West Virginia.

Q: What kind of hobbies do you do back home?

A: Camping, fishing and hunting.

Q: Why did you choose your job?

A: I always wanted to be in the military. My dad was in the military and he also had the same job. He’s been an inspiration to me.

Q: What’s the most interesting part of your job?

A: Just learning how the aircraft itself works.

A: I went out teaching the kids.

That was fun.

Q: What do you hope to achieve in Kosovo?

A: I’m going to get WLC (Warrior Leadership Course) out of the way, maybe phase one of BNCOC (Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course).

Q: Do you have anything you want to say to the people back home?

A: I have a wife and stepson. I miss them and I’ll see them soon.

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synchronized patrols result in lasting friendships

KFOR Teaching Therapy Techniques

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story and photos by 1st Lt. Casey Staheli

ll I can say is that the relationship has grown into a great friendship both professionally and socially,” said Joint Implementation Commission Deputy Capt. Paul Lauritzen. “It has created a lifelong friendship. It has also allowed us to get to know them and their families.”

Lt. Col. Yvonne M. Ivanov, a physical therapist with the 75th Combat Support Hospital based in Tuscaloosa, Ala., trains Dr. Fatmir Kambem, a local family doctor, on physical therapy techniques to treat back conditions like kyphosis.

Lauritzen was describing the strong relationships that developed amongst the different armed forces that conduct synchronized patrols, a task the JIC oversees.

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story and photo by Spc. John A. Montoya

native of Hopkinton, Mass., and a former employee at St. Luke’s Hospital in Virginia, Minn., Lt. Col. Yvonne M. Ivanov, the officer in charge of physical therapy at Camp Bondsteel, traveled with Liaison Monitoring Team 5 on July 1 to assess the needs of a local community center and whether Kosovo Forces could provide some training resources for them.

The JIC ensures compliance by monitoring the activities conducted by Kosovo Forces and Kosovo Security Forces along the ABL with Serbia.

“The JIC was created in 1999 to establish liaison arrangements with local Kosovo authorities and the Serbian Armed Forces both civil and military,” said Lauritzen.

“Since then there has been much change and movement forward.”

The JIC still faces challenging situations that have the potential to escalate the existing strife between citizens of Kosovo and Serbia along the ABL. “We often mitigate the issues to preserve a calm atmosphere and maintain a safe and secure environment,” said Barrera.

One way to mitigate issues and address concerns is by conducting synchronized patrols with the SAF.

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The synchronized patrols show the people of Kosovo that there is a constant presence of KFOR enforcing the Military Technical Agreement between the SAF and the people of Kosovo, Lauritzen said. But the main reason is to provide a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for the people of Kosovo.

Patrols, P. 12

Top: Serbian soldiers are seen approaching members of Multinational Battle Group East prior to a synchronized patrol.

Bottom: Members of Multinational Battle Group East conduct a synchronized patrol with Serbian Armed Forces along the administrative boundary line.

of having abnormal spine curvature, I can go back and take a look at them again and teach them how to do some exercises with these individuals,” said Ivanov.

Another goal of the center is to help integrate the minority communities into mainstream society in Kosovo by making sure they are proficient in reading, they have basic computer skills and they are healthy, said Ndrek Augustini, one of the directors of the Dubrave/Ferizaj Education Social Center.

Doctors from Task Force Medical have been working with local professionals, such as teachers, dentists and other healthcare practitioners to teach them basic health assessment skills and treatment techniques which Ivanov, a physical therapist require little to no equipment and Although there is a family with the 75th Combat Support can easily be transmitted to oth- doctor permanently assigned Hospital based in Tuscaloosa, Ala., ers, said Ivanov. to the school, who has a full trained locals at the Dubrave/ understanding of various spinal Ferizaj Education Social Center.

The ability of these profession- conditions, his resources and als to do simple prescreening time are limited.

The therapist trained teachcan also save the local medical ers, teachers’ aides, students and system’s resources.

Dr. Fatmir Kambem, a fammedical professionals on techily doctor newly assigned to the niques used to identify two spine “Training the trainer can be center, said he sees on average conditions, scoliosis and kyphosis, more important than just going 50 to 60 people a day who face along with several therapy techout there and doing the screenchronic diseases, which includes niques to treat the conditions. ing ourselves,” said Ivanov. “They everything from diabetes to can be extenders for their own tuberculosis.

As part of the training, Ivanov providers, because there are only performed 25 screenings that day. so many providers. If they can Ivanov said Kambem was well She said she hoped the staff now have more people, who can do versed in the various spinal conhad the knowledge necessary to more screenings, they can have ditions and he was very receptive screen the rest of the 150 people a more intelligent conversation to learning the different physiwho receive services there. with their doctors.” cal therapy techniques she was teaching that day.

When the screenings are The education center in Ferizaj complete, Ivanov would like to go is funded by Caritas Kosovas, a “This community needs this back and work with staff at the Catholic charity organization kind of training,” said Kambem. center. which helps to bring basic health “They [the Roma/Ashkali] have and education services to the started integrating into the com“Once they identify the individ- minority Roma and Ashkali com- munity and this training can help uals who fall into that category munities in Ferizaj. them a lot.”

The End

The JIC’s mission is to ensure overall compliance with the provisions of the Military Technical Agreement, United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and the Temporary Operating Procedures Agreement for operating astride the Administrative Boundary Line and directions for implementing the TOPA, said Capt.

Aleida Barrera, the other JIC Deputy.

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Patrols Another reason for the synchronized patrols is to deter smugglers and set up new observation points.

“The purpose of these patrols is to show KFOR presence and stop people from moving illegal items through the border,” said Ukrainian 1st Lt. Artem Pomaz, platoon leader for the Ukrainian 2nd Special Platoon which has conducted a number of synchronized patrols. “We also gather information, observe activities and look for new smuggling routes. We report all of these things to the JIC.” All of the synchronized patrol tasks and objectives reiterate KFOR’s mission of maintaining a safe and secure environment.

various caveats and operational procedures that other nations have,” said Barrera. “My experience has helped me build better rapport in this environment and I continue to learn from them. I have now seen both sides of the ABL and have a greater insight on the Serbian and Albanian perspectives.”

These patrols help soldiers from all nations learn to work and interact with one another, said Lauritzen.

The best part is being able to relate with other armies from another nation; building positive relations becomes more common as you spend more time with them.

Kosovo Forces 14 Task Force Aviation element hosts a fleet of UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters used for troop transportation, medical evacuation,and disaster response should the need arise.

TF AVN is made up of units from four states with Soldiers from even more locations than there are units.

Each element is necessary to keep the whole TF running smoothly with aircraft ready 24/7.

Below is a brief overview of each unit.

Capt. Aleida Barrera, Joint Implementation Commission Deputy, discusses a patrol route with Lt. Col. Vojislav Milobanvic of the Serbian Armed Forces. JIC members conduct approximately 27 synchronized patrols a month with SAF. (Courtesy photo.)

actions you must do to handle it.”

Synchronized patrols have not just benefited individuals; they have provided an opportunity for mutual respect and growth between nations.

Libichenko agrees. “Synchronized patrol missions help us build good relationships,” said “The relationship between the Libichenko. “Soldiers see each JIC and the SAF is very profesother’s tactics, learn from each sional and very cooperative,” said other, cross train and share infor- Lauritzen. “We meet locally in the mation helping us all mature.” north and the east monthly. We have coordination level meetAfter a recent synch patrol, ings monthly to finalize issues Ukrainian Pfc. Ivan Svystak discussed, and we have command shared what he had learned. level meetings bimonthly to disBarrera, Lauritzen and others cuss the activities for the last two have witnessed personal growth “The experience from the synmonths.” from conducting and participatchronized patrol missions helps ing in synchronized patrols. enhance your soldiering skills,” The JIC will continue to play an Svystak said. “You become more important role in KFOR in main“My experience in working with knowledgeable about what’s taining freedom of movement and other nations has taught me the going on in the area and what a safe and secure environment.

“These patrols help with a safe and secure environment because people who live along the border see us out there and know we have a strong presence. It stops people from doing illegal activities such as smuggling,” said Ukrainian Staff Sgt. Vaym Libichenko.

Hoist training

HHC 1-376th Aviation Security and Support Battalion (NE) C Co., 1-150th Aviation Battalion (WV)

Performs air movement operations within the Task Force area of operation. On order, performs day and night quick reaction force, water bucket, sling load, and VIP transport.

Headquarters and Headquarters Company provides command and control, supervision, staff planning, unit level personnel service and logistical support for all units organic to or attached to the Aviation Security and Support Battalion.

Det. 1, C Co., 1-169th General Support Aviation Battalion, Medical Evacuation (PA)

Primary mission is medical evacuation, responding to emergency 9-line requests, hoist operations and patient transfers. In addition, continued training is conducted with all the task forces teaching hot and cold loading procedures onto the UH-60 aircraft and methods to initiate 9-line requests.

Det. 1, B Co., 449th Aviation Support Battalion (AR)

Performs company aviation unit maintenance operations to include the following collective tasks: conduct helicopter maintenance, direct production control procedures and priorities of aviation maintenance and assets, and operational reporting of aircraft availability. Coordinates quality control actions of aviation maintenance programs and performs aircraft technical inspections. Coordinates component and airframe repair maintenance actions and performs aircraft Battle Damage Assessment and Repair.

Capt. Jason Barber is evaluated on using the jungle penetrator apparatus performing personnel lifts during readiness level training. Barber had to complete several tasks during the training in order to progress on the path to become a certified flight medic.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane)

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One of Camp Bondsteel’s UH-60 Blackhawks is brought in to be serviced as part of its regular lifecycle.

Sgt. Lewis Neal carefully removes tape from an epoxy patch he has applied to a crack in one of the rotors.

Bondsteel’s mechanics keep Blackhawks aloft

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story and photos by Spc. Evan V. Lane

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otate the tires. Change bly weighing in at approximately the oil. Clean the air filter. $79,000. With parts that expensive and complex, keeping the These are the kind of aircraft flying takes a lot of work. mechanical tasks most drivers are familiar with.

“On average we conduct four hours of maintenance for every Fabricate a spar for the stabila- hour of flight time,” said Chief tor from stock aluminum. Spot Warrant Officer 2 Ronald Helton, patch stress fractures. Conduct warrant officer in charge of overnondestructive inspections on all aviation maintenance. the main rotor assembly.

Although it is not as simple as These are the kind of mechani- just putting in four hours, said cal tasks Camp Bondsteel’s Sgt. Lewis Neal, a helicopter aviation mechanics conduct to powertrain mechanic from Little keep the fleet of UH-60 BlackRock, Ark. hawks in the sky.

Maintenance is an ongoing These tasks are conducted process that is done whenever it by specialized mechanics in the is needed.

449th Aviation Unit Maintenance company, commanded by Capt.

Whenever a work order is filed, Kelly Colgan. repairs are directed to one of the specialty shops for completion.

“We support line units like the medevac and lift companies,” he Sgt. Charles Parker, a general said. “It’s just like on a truck. You helicopter mechanic, and his crew have to do preventive mainteprepare the tools and remove nance to ensure it doesn’t break aircraft parts to give access to down, and we’re here to focus the damaged area. on that aspect so that the flight crews can have more time in the “We do our research in the air.” training manuals and find out what exactly is needed for a A Blackhawk’s parts are a bit repair,” said Parker. “Once the more expensive than a Chevy’s, aircraft is in our hangar, we’re though, with a new hub assemresponsible for all of it. That

includes daily maintenance tasks, so while we’re working on a specific issue, we’re also checking off as many of those tasks as possible.”

One of the more frequent repairs is of small stress fractures in the hull or blades.

“We have to conduct nondestructive inspections to search for those cracks and wear,” said Neal.

There are five methods to search for cracks, including x-raying the area in question.

Neal uses different techniques to inspect parts depending on what they are fabricated from, including aluminum, titanium, manganese, stainless steel and composites.

“There are certain criteria you have to meet. One is to flex it and see if it opens, and sometimes you’ll get people who flex it enough to cause it to crack more,” said Neal, chuckling.

After a crack has grown to a certain size the part must be repaired.

Rather than just ordering a new part, which could be expenMechanics, P. 19

Spc. Peter Grimm, right, a crew chief in training watches as his instructor, Staff Sgt. Aaron Patterson, demonstrates the hand and arm signals used to guide a helicopter to a hover. Grimm is undergoing Readiness Level progression training advancing him from an aviation mechanic to a crew chief. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo)

Training up

Aviation mechanic progresses to crew chief

S

story and photos by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo

tanding on a forgotten, empty, wind-swept runway somewhere in Kosovo, Spc. Peter Grimm performed hand and arm signals in front of a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, adeptly directing the aircraft pilots to hover, move right or left, and finally take off in a specific direction of flight. Grimm, an aviation mechanic in training to become a UH-60 crew chief learned the proper motions from Staff Sgt. Aaron Patterson, standardization instructor from 1-169th Medical Evacuation company based in Pennsylvania.

Patterson is teaching and evaluating Grimm and others through a program called Readiness Level, or RL progression. Enlisted members of the Army who are aviation mechanics or health care specialists have the opportunity to complete additional training to become crew chiefs or flight medics respectively. Candidates begin at an RL 3 status and work up to a fully qualified RL 1 status.

medical evacuation companies and lift companies.

Grimm and other crew chiefs and flight medics in training have to be able to pass a flight physical, hold certain duty positions in aviation units and obtain state flight orders in order to begin the progression training. Grimm deployed with the 1-150th Aviation Battalion from West Virginia and is able to fulfill the requirements, thus was able to begin the process.

Grimm said he came into the Army to fly. He said he is a fixed wing pilot back home and is glad to take the opportunity here to fly as much as possible and learn what he can before returning home.

Grimm said he plans to attend the Aviation Warrant Officer courses after this deployment becoming a Blackhawk pilot himself.

During the same training flight in which Grimm led the Blackhawk pilots solely with hand and arm According to Patterson, crew chiefs and flight signals, he also responded to a simulated emermedics must wade through approximately 60 gency situation in which a hard landing could have academic classes, written evaluations and perform occurred requiring all passengers to vacate the numerous hands-on flight tasks. In addition, a por- aircraft to a safe distance and location. In addition, tion of training involving night vision goggles is one Grimm was required to perform numerous pre of the final steps to become crew chief qualified. and post flight inspections as well as in-flight fuel Depending on the unit’s mission, additional base management procedures and continually monitortasks are required for ing the surrounding airspace for possible obstacles.

RL training, P. 19

15

Serving up education

M

The gift of language Army Aviators teach English to local teens

story and photo by 1st Lt. Casey Staheli

Here at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, in a large helicopter hanger, members of C. Co., 1-150th hold a Waffle House every Sunday morning. Volunteers from the Task Force Aviation unit and occasionally other units, make waffles from 7 a.m. to noon.

These volunteers take orders, serve customers and make waffles in the kitchen.

“It is a chance for those living and working on Camp Bondsteel to come together every Sunday morning to relax and enjoy each other’s company while having some good food and fun in support of a good cause,” said Capt.

Francisco J. Figueroa, commander of C. Co., 1-150th.

16

head cook because he wanted to make a difference. “I like cooking and was interested in making a lasting impact on Kosovo,” said Hogsett.

with C. Co., 1-150th takes orders and donations most Sundays and said he is impressed with the generosity and consistency of the Soldiers.

The desire to help is also what led Sgt. Kurt Campbell, a petroleum supply specialist to volunteer. “This all helps because a lot of kids cannot afford the TOEFL,” said Campbell. “We wanted to assist them and open doors to a better future.”

“This is a good thing to do and every week we have about 100-150 Soldiers come through and help us raise money for the TOEFL,” said Kyle. “Donations are really good and the continued participation of our Soldiers demonstrates their sincerity.”

“I always hear positive comments from Soldiers during the week,” said Hogsett. “They tell me they are looking forward to Sunday.”

Figueroa contributes the Waffle House’s ongoing success to Soldiers living the Army value of Selfless Service.

story by Spc. Evan V. Lane

A

dile Isafi and Emin Bajrami want what most people want– a good future, for themselves and their country. And with help from Soldiers from Camp Bondsteel, they are achieving that future. Every Tuesday and Thursday, Soldiers spend their day off chatting with Adile and Emin, along with over 100 other students, preparing them for the Test of English as a Foreign Language.

KFOR Soldiers began hosting free English courses in 2007 in cooperation with Next Steps of Youth, a local non-governmental organization, said Naim Bajrami, the Task Force Aviation translator and liaison to the schools participating in the classes.

C. Co., 1-150th’s efforts also The Waffle House is open make a positive impact on the to Soldiers, civilians and local Soldiers and civilians stationed at nationals located or working on Camp Bondsteel.

Camp Bondsteel

For Soldiers it is a win-win situation, allowing them to have a homemade breakfast while gathering together to relax, socialize and make a positive contribution.

As Soldiers enter the hanger “Education is the only way to a sign reads, ‘Your donations give people hope; knowledge support local youth education.’ empowers people,” said Staff Members of C. Co., 1-150th also Sgt. Elizabeth Deihl, noncommisvolunteer their time and talents sioned officer in charge of patient teaching English to local students administration with Task Force twice a week as they prepare for Medical. “We came here [Kosovo] the Test of English as a Foreign to make a difference and provide Language. for a better future and we can also do that by supporting the “A portion of the funds raised Waffle House.” from the Waffle House will be utilized to pay for the cost of each Sgt. Monica Hepker, an animal student’s TOEFL,” said Figueroa. care specialist agreed.

“Another portion will be used to pay for the students’ meals while The money Soldiers are donaton Camp Bondsteel for a field ing goes to a good cause, as trip.” everyone needs an education, said Hepker. The kids are the The TOEFL exam will be held future of Kosovo and education at the University of Pristina in makes a long-term impact. Plus it November. is a great place to gather on Sunday mornings to relax and chat Sgt. 1st Class Matt Hogsett, with fellow Soldiers. a platoon sergeant with C. Co., 1-150th, volunteered to act as the Sgt. Richard Kyle, a crew chief

“All of the workers volunteer their time and talents to make the Waffle House a success,” Figueroa said. “Everyone has been enthusiastic about sharing their skills, making friends and supporting a program that has the potential to change lives.”

The ultimate goal of the program, said Naim, is to prepare the students to do well on the TOEFL, an admissions requirement for most English-speaking universities.

The curriculum has grown over the years into a full-fledged program, augmenting English courses being taught in the Ferizaj and Gjilan schools. While attendance is free, it is available only to those who show interest and strong work ethic in their high school’s program. Teachers at the high schools nominate promising teens to attend the TOEFL preparatory program.

Classes in Ferizaj are held in the Cultural House.

The large building is lent to the instructors twice a week by the Ferizaj municipality. Inside, several group tables are arranged by skill level, so each of the 120 students is placed in a smaller group discussion setting with their peers and a Task Force Aviation instructor. All students start at a beginners’-level table and progress as they get better.

Adile and Emin are both currently in an advanced class taught by Spc. Heath Wragge, a chaplain’s assistant with Task Force Falcon.

“I want to study in America,” said Adile, who said “He keeps us laughing the whole time,” said Adile. she plans on attending a university in either Iowa or Kansas. “I’m going to become a surgeon and come “He gives us the will to learn to more and more,” back to Kosovo to help my country.” said Bajrami.

The End

embers of C. Co., 1-150th Aviation Battalion based in West Virginia, are just one example, among the many members of the Army, living the Army values. Selfless Service is one of those values. Soldiers are not just required to memorize the words; Soldiers are expected to live them.

Sgt. 1st. Class Matt Hogsett, left, displays the ‘Big Duke’ a waffle named for the mountain hovering over Camp Bondsteel. Chief Warrant Officer Daniel Williams, right, spends each Sunday morning cooking and serving waffles to the hungry mouths of soldiers and civilians here. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo)

Adile taught herself Spanish through telenovelas, Spanish-language soap operas. Adile is applying that same determination to improve her English skills for the TOEFL.

That positive environment was noticeable everywhere, with laughter pealing from all of the tables and smiles on each of the students’ faces. Those conversations are a large part of the success of the

Sgt. Cory Schiedemann, attached to the 376th Aviation Security and Support Battalion, listens as students practice their English skills for the TOEFL examination.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. John A. Montoya)

Staff Sgt. Carol McManis, center, and her class pose for a picture before returning to the subject at hand, grammar.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane)

Language, P. 18

17

Language “I’m going to go on to international relations,” said Emin. “I love English. I love everything about it.

It’s in my blood.”

The End

Emin said he wants to return to Kosovo after “They can all speak really well, but they still have attending a university abroad, possibly to a position to learn their adjectives and parts of speech so they in Kosovo’s government. can talk about random stuff and fill a conversation,” said Wragge. “The TOEFL is like the English portion “My father taught me that knowing a language is of the ACT [American College Testing]. It’s tough!” knowing a culture,” Naim said as he talked about the program’s successes.

“The students are intense, though. They come in and they have a purpose. They know what they’re With capable teenagers like Adile and Emin, the trying to do,” he continued, stating he finds the knowledge gained from Wragge and the other work rewarding. instructors will help them not only learn more about English-speaking cultures, but allow them to Throughout the interview with Adile and Emin, assist in creating brighter futures for themselves they both conversed with a level of fluency that and their country.

La Fête Nationale

sive and time consuming, Staff The part will then replace the Sgt. Glen Polit, who specializes in factory spar and be painted to sheet metal fabrication, builds a match the Blackhawk. patch.

An essential part of their role To fix a crack in one of the is making that repair process as stabilator ribs, he cut and built a invisible and smooth as possible, part from scratch. said Colgan, who also noted that the 449th has an excellent safety “We started with a piece of air- record. craft grade aluminum about four feet by eight feet,” said Polit.

“It requires a lot of scheduling to keep them flying,” agreed “Then Neal and I sawed it down Paker. “Rushed maintenance is on the band saw. I polished it unsafe maintenance, so we need down and coated it with an epoxy enough time to make sure the primer,” he added. people in the aircraft are safe.”

raw stock

rough cuts

Patterson said he truly enjoys training new crew chiefs and flight medics. “It’s rewarding to see people start out and really feel unsure or not really know if they can do this job, and take them from that point to bring them to a fully functioning mission crew chief or medic is exciting,” said Patterson.

“I was a crew chief for a long time. I’ve done just about every job there is to do in aviation. I’ve had the advantage to be able to do this for so long, that I want to be able to pass that on.”

18

Each Soldier in the 449th seemed to share that love of their work. And with multimilliondollar aircraft and human lives at stake, it’s good to know that level of devotion is present. Their continued support of Camp Bondsteel’s aviators keeps the Blackhawks in the sky and ready to perform their mission.

assembly

final part

RL Training Under the watchful guidance of Patterson and Sgt. Jason Kling, flight medic with 1-169th, Grimm performed the tasks to standard.

Col. Mary Bolk, commander of Task Force Medical, enjoys a dance with traditional dancers and French soldiers at Camp Novo Selo, Kosovo, during Bastille Day, July 13. Bastille Day, known as La Fête Nationale in France, commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a definitive moment in the formation of the modern French nation during the French Revolution. (Photo courtesy of Sgt. Sonya Wise)

“I love it,” said Polit. “I started out as a medic, then flight medic, but then I met a guy in sheet metal in 2005. I thought, ‘Power Tools!’ and have been here ever since.”

The End

“I know former students now working at Camp Bondsteel as translators, working in government, studying abroad,” said Naim. “It’s all made possible by their language skills. We’re preparing these kids for their own futures.”

illustrated how productive their time with the Task Force Aviation instructor’s has been. Naim, while available for translation, was able to sit and listen as the two laughed and talked about their hopes.

Patterson said he will continue to train crew chiefs and flight medics for the duration of the deployment and then return home to do the same.

Grimm said he will garner as much training, experience and flight hours as he can here in Kosovo and looks forward to being able to translate those skills to a pilot seat in the aircraft he is learning to help guide and maneuver.

As Grimm stood tall against the rotor wash of the hovering Blackhawk helicopter; dust, leaves and grass blurring his vision, the confidence in his ability to perform the skills required to become a crew chief shone through the swirling debris. Pat-

terson, on hand close by, was able to stand back and observe Grimm completing the required tasks to standard, well on his way to completing the RL progression training. The exchange of information from instructor to trainee illustrates the strength of the Army: experienced Soldiers sharing their hard earned knowledge with upcoming troops willing to fulfill evermore challenging roles.

The End

course, which has helped students obtain scholarships to English speaking schools in countries such as Belgium and America.

Mechanics

Staff Sgt. Aaron Patterson, standardization instructor from 1-169th Medical Evacuation company based in Pennsylvania prepares a UH-60 Blackhawk for flight. Patterson trains new crew chiefs and flight medics in the art and science of the tasks. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo)

19

Seasoned crew chief shares experience

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story and photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane

“With attack helicopters like the Cobra, crew chiefs only prepare the aircraft. In flight, there are only two people on board: the pilot and the copilot. On the Hueys and Blackhawks, crew chiefs perform a broader role, which I like,” he said.

“Here, we’re on a first-up, second-up schedule,” explained Palfrey. “What that means is when I’m working my primary mission, I’m on a 24-hour on-call status. I have to be ready to jump up and perform if an air medevac is needed in Kosovo.”

He took it all in stride, insisting it was just a part of a job that he Palfrey, as a crew chief and loved. a top-rated Readiness Level instructor, has the additional That job began before he was task of keeping his Soldiers upeven 18. to-date on all the training that is required to operate safely within “When I was in high school, I and alongside the aircraft during went to a career fair. A recruiter missions. there told me about the Guard, and I joined in my senior year,” “Working on Soldiers’ Readisaid Palfrey, a Pennsylvania ness Level tasks is in on top of native. “There was a Cobra unit that. This is a completely differ20 minutes from my house, so I ent job than the last time I was decided on aviation.” here,” Palfrey said.

He then spent ten years in a technician job working on the AH-1 Cobra helicopter.

20

While he said he enjoyed working with the other airframes, Palfrey said the most fun he has had as a crew chief has been since he switched over to lift and carry missions, like the one he currently performs here and at his home unit, the 1-169th Medical Evacuation Detachment in Pennsylvania.

Palfrey’s first time in Kosovo was in 2009, when he worked as a crew chief for the lift company here at Camp Bondsteel.

“The mission was a bit different. Gunnery was a part of my work load. Now, not so much,” he laughed. His current mission, with the 1-169th, is geared toward saving lives.

“Gunnery doesn’t make a whole lot of sense when it comes

to this one,” he said.

His role is now a mix of those real world missions and training Soldiers in new skills.

Members of the Balkan Club, a Soldier-led organization dedicated to learning more about nearby cultures, present a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Edi Shukriu, an archaeologist, following her presentation on the ancient inhabitants of this region.

Most recently that training portion had him verifying Capt.

Jason Barber’s ability to conduct medical hoist operations, a prerequisite for him to gain an additional certification as a flight medic.

Association Strives For Learning, Understanding

Medical evacuation is one of the primary roles the Blackhawk UH-60 helicopters play here in Kosovo in addition to troop transportation and lift operations.

A

story and photo by Spc. John A. Montoya

Soldiers’ association here on Camp Bondsteel, the Balkan Club, has become a forum for its’ members to share topical knowledge of history, geography, politics, economics and culture to include music, art and cuisine from any country in the Balkans region, said Staff Sgt. Gregory Sell, the intelligence section’s political and economic analyst.

“There are a lot of steps, checks, balances, safety that goes into what we do. Even a standard flight from here to Pristina follows a checklist designed to keep everyone safe,” he said.

The club has held its’ meetings in at the Medal of Honor Hall in midtown at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays, but the time and meeting area is subject to change.

Palfrey said he knows these steps inside and out, and refreshes himself as he flies.

The club was formed in response to the top ten priority list set forth by Multinational Battle Group East’s Commander, Col. Michael D. Schwartz, said Sell. One of those priorities was to establish an education program for Soldiers to learn about the local culture.

“This isn’t a get there and quit learning process. Even at RL 1, we have to keep up on training to make sure we’re still doing the tasks perfectly,” he said.

When working in a helicopter, doing your job right is the only option, said Palfrey.

“It’s not like you can’t have fun, though,” he said. “I’ve always loved this job. I’ve hung out of Hueys, up underneath the aircraft, to attach sling load lines with the earth rushing up at me. It’s great!”

The End

taff Sgt. Frank Palfrey, a crew chief with over 21 years in the National Guard, is one of the people that keeps the aviation world up and running here on Camp Bondsteel.

He took some time on his day off to speak with The Guardian East about his career and his involvement with a recent medical hoist training mission. Of course, Palfrey’s “day off” started with attending a morning medevac meeting, followed by an interview and an hour-long flight he crewed.

Even though the club is in its infant stage there is growing interest, said Sell. He estimated there were at least 25 people who attended the last meeting.

Exceptional members in the club, make the meetings possible and interesting. Sgt. 1st Class Don Eggert serves as vice-president, Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Deihl co-edits the club’s newsletter ‘Balkan Ways’ and manages the membership attendance and Ganimete Pashoja-Myftiu, one of the command’s linguist, serves as the club’s cultural coordinator.

Pashoja-Myftiu is able to use her connections with the local community to bring in speakers with specialized knowledge about local culture and history.

One of Pashoja-Myftiu’s connections made it possible for Dr. Edi Shukriu, an archaeologist and author in Kosovo, to visit Bondsteel on July 8 and give a presentation about the ancient inhabitants of this part of the Balkans. Shukriu placed a special “Rather than force feed knowledge to people, I emphasis on the ancient Roman city of Ulpiana, came up with the idea of making it a voluntary which was located about seven kilometers south of association, a club, and I received the support of the Pristina, said Shukriu. commander,” said Sell.

In addition to discussing topics on Kosovo, the The fact that the organization is voluntary has Balkan Club discusses topics across the whole Balled to its success and growth. “The club is success- kan region. ful because of its members’ contributions,” said Sell.

“Members choose how they contribute, when they “I didn’t want to just keep the club a Kosovo thing, contribute and there is no mandate for Soldiers to because it would have been too limited in scope,” have to do anything.” said Sell.

Balkan club, P. 24

21

Dashing through the DanCon

T

story and photos by Spc. John A. Montoya

he second Danish Contingency March of 2011 kicked off on June 26 at Camp Novo Selo. At least 367 multinational soldiers, civilians and law enforcement personnel from 27 different nations participated in the march said Danish Master Sgt. Johnny Larsen, the noncommissioned officer in charge of the Danish contingency and force protection guard on Camp Novo Selo.

A French soldier, stationed at Camp Novo Selo, Kosovo, takes water mid-stride during the Danish Contingency march.

The Danish soldiers from Camp Novo Selo sponsored the event. There were 138 U.S. personnel who participated in the march in June, said 2nd Lt. Abbas Farooqi, intelligence section battle captain.

The beginning of the march started at about 350 meters above sea level and rose to nearly 740 meters at its highest point, said Larsen.

Besides the rough terrain, participants were given only eight hours to complete the circuit. The first participant to complete the race was Janusz Miketa, a Polish Policja officer. Miketa finished the march in 2 hours and 42 minutes. The fastest American was Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jeffrey Hoffman, a pilot with the 1-150th Aviation Battalion based in West Virginia, who finished the march in 3 hours and 27 minutes.

Most of the participants were exhausted after 26 kilometers of marching and said the trek was difficult.

“It was definitely challenging, it was no cakewalk,” said Sgt. Christopher Valdez, a sub-team leader with the Liaison Monitoring Team based in Roswell, N.M.

Austrian Sgt. David Frumwirtm, a member of the Austrian Contingency stationed at Camp Film City, Kosovo, said, “It was quite hard. The hill climbing was the most difficult.”

22

After the march was completed many of the participants’ feet showed signs of swelling and they had other minor foot related injuries. “I think my A Liaison Monitoring Team Soldier, from Roswell, N.M., stops at a waypoint during the Danish Contigency March. foot is one huge blister,” said Staff Sgt. Derek McBee, a member of the Joint Visitors Bureau on Camp Bondsteel.

The next Danish Contingency March will be held Sept.

4 at Camp Novo Selo. The Danish march marks the transition of Danish personnel on the camp, said Farooqi.

Any soldiers interested in participating in the event have an opportunity to prepare for the next march by training for it over the next few months.

Capt. Jason D. Barber, Task Force Aviation flight physician assistant, had some advice for anyone interested in the next march.

“I would progress your weight and distance slowly and do no more than one ruck a week,” said Barber.

The Danish Contingency March has a long tradition and is held wherever Danish soldiers are stationed. The first march was held in Cyprus in 1972 and since then they have been held in hotspots, like Iraq and Afghanistan, amongst many other places the Danish have been deployed.

The End

KFOR Soldiers, Kosovo Security Force soldiers, and participating civilians take part in the Danish Contigency March. The march is 26 kilometers long and winds through difficult terrain with many changes in elevation.

The participants hiked 26 kilometers through villages, mountains and fields surrounding Camp Novo Selo. The route had many hills and the trail went from pavement to hard scrabble dirt paths.

23

Balkan club

The club is geared toward everyone, especially Soldiers who need intellectual discussions and crave knowledge of other cultures.

“The introductions to the meetings are definitely geared toward the average person with just base knowledge, however some topics can range in their intensity depending on the speaker,” said Sell.

Although the club is open to everyone, it attracts a certain type of personality to its ranks.

“They seem to be Soldiers and civilians of a more inquisitive nature, more intellectual,” said Sell.

The club was formed to offer an outlet for these

Soldiers release stress, find community

types of Soldiers.

“There’s a lot of other Soldiers who want something a little more stimulating intellectually and something like this will encourage them to do some self directed study,” said Sell.

One of most interesting things Sell said the club has to offer is access to films which are difficult to find outside the region. “We’re going to be able to watch a lot of movies we wouldn’t have otherwise have watched, Balkan films and Serbian films.” said Sell.

The club is a reflection of what the members bring to the weekly meetings and it can be steered in any direction by those members.

“The club can be anything the members choose it be,” said Sell.

The End

“If I opened it up to the Balkans region it would actually offer more opportunities for topical themes and discussions,” said Sell.

Get your game on

1st Lt. Bruce Spraggins, S-4 planner with Multinational Battle Group East, evaluates his Magic The Gathering cards before making a strategic play during a Magic tournament on July 8.

B

story and photos by 1st Lt. Casey Staheli

oth Soldiers and civilians need a break from the day to day rigors that come from working long hours, said Blagojce Stevanovski, a Serbian interpreter here at Camp Bondsteel.

The students of the University of Maryland’s Introductory Albanian course pose for a picture during their end of semester field trip to Pristina, Kosovo. The students learned introductory phrases and basic grammar to help them interact with the Albanian-speaking portion of Kosovo.

Sgt. 1st Class Miguel Robles, noncommissioned officer in charge of Task Force Falcon’s S-7 section, spoke highly of the course.

“I took the class to better communicate with the local populace. It was like a life skills language class– lots of interraction and very helpful scenarios. It was tough, though. Kosovo has a very young population, and they use a lot of their own slang. We learned some slang in class, and while we were walking during the field trip I was able to interact with local people on the streets and in the museums. Everyone in class participated, and I thought Arta [Vincon], our instructor was great,” Robles said.

24

One of the best places and ways to find that is in the Moral, Welfare and Recreation hall where a variety of games allow for socializing and building friendships.

“I find pingpong interesting and physically and mentally challenging,” said Babic. “I don’t go home too often so the MWR hall is a good place to come for fun and relaxation.”

Across from the pingpong tables another game goes on; billiards.

Pfc. Buzdiuh Serhii, a member of the Ukrainian platoon, watches the three-ball roll towards the left corner pocket during a game of billiards.

Soldiers and civilian often spend evenings enjoying billiards and other games at the Moral Recreation and Welfare Hall on Camp Bondsteel.

that is not always the case.

“We come here and play against each other, against Americans, Polish anyone who wants to join a game,” said Mykola. “It’s a great place to meet people, make new friends and have fun.”

Billiards and pingpong tables are open to anyone, anytime.

Other games such as spades and Scrabble™ are played on certain nights.

Ukrainian Master Sgt. Shadura Mykola, chalks-up, bends over and runs the cue between his fingers a few times before he calls Stevanovski and Mihailo Babic, his shot to the left corner pocket, On the balcony that overlooks another Serbian interpreter, can as Ukrainian Pfc. Burdiuh Serhii the MWR hall, a number of people be found most evenings battling it watches the ball drop in. take places around a table playout on the pingpong table. ing Magic: The Gathering™.

Burdiuh thinks the games are “The competition is fierce, great. “There are so many difMagic is a game where playfriendly and fun,” said Stevaferent things to do here, so many ers assume the role of a powerful novski. ways to have fun, but my favorite wizard who fights other wizards is billiards.” with a deck of cards representing Babic, who has played pingyour arsenal of spells, knowledge pong every day for the last three While all of the billiards playand creatures that can be sumGame, P. 26 years, admits it is an addiction. ers are Ukrainian, Mykola says moned.

25

Medical staff honored

Game

Independence Day

Maj. Arthur Longoria, an avid Magic player for 15 years, decided to put the weekly Magic gathering together.

“Since Magic is an international game I thought others here on Camp Bondsteel might play as well,” said Longoria. “So I asked the MWR manager if I could put up a flyer and I started to get responses.”

Now every Monday there are usually 6-12 Soldiers and civilians playing.

Maj. Elaine H. Berkowitz, Special Projects Officer and Camp Bondsteel dentist, receives an award July 4 in Pristina, Kosovo, recognizing her service to the people in Kosovo. “The award means a whole lot to me, because the people in Kosovo are so sincere,” said Berkowitz.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. John Montoya Jr.)

Splash!

Magic has a lot of mechanics and takes some time to learn. But if players can get a grasp on the basics, it is smooth sailing after that, said chaplain assistant Spc. Michael Aton.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eduardo Macaraeg, personnel technician, enjoys the strategy of the game.

Staff Sgt. Kellen Marson with C. Co., 1-200th Infantry, connects with a softball pitch during one of the numerous softball games held back to back in order to eliminate all but the best.

Teams were formed specifically for the 4th of July tournament. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo)

“You have to have the passion in strategy games to enjoy Magic,” said Macaraeg. “It’s a fun game, but having passion in the game is what makes it more interesting.”

Left: A barbecue cook off competition was held during the 4th of July festivities. Numerous teams participated in the cook off and all who participated and walked around enjoyed tasty food. ( U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Casey Staheli)

For Staff Sgt. Jerome Rabanal it is the competition that is most enjoyable.

“Although we play for fun, it’s still competitive which makes you want to be a better player,” said Rabanal.

“I like seeing how others play and finding out whom the better card duelist is.”

Below: Soldiers with Multinational Battle Group East participate in Camp Bondsteel’s most recent tug of war championship.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane) Below Left: A soccer tournament was held as part of the festivities.

The two final teams competing for the crown were Team KBR and Team AAFES. Team AAFES defeated Team KBR after a brutal match.

(U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Anna Doo)

Spc. Reynaldo Galarza, a Soldier with the 449th Aviation Unit Maintenance company, front flips into the Camp Casablanca pool during a recreation day on July 15.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane)

26

Stop by the MWR Hall, make new friends, have fun and game on.

The End

Whether it is on the billiard table or with a deck of cards in hand, gamers agree that interacting with people outside of work is an opportunity to meet new people and share a common interest.

“I have met at least three new Soldiers through the Monday night meetings and occasionally get together with them to discuss and trade Magic cards, tips or just talk about different things,” said Rabanal.

Soldiers with Multinational Battle Group East participate in Camp Bondsteel’s most recent concert during the U.S. Independence Day festivities at the South Town Fitness Center, Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, July 4. Music, sports and food made for a festive atmosphere in which members of many countries celebrated. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane)

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Fitness S

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By Capt. Jason D. Barber

electing exercises, specifically resistance exercises, is a difficult decision sometimes and we ask, “Which lifts should I do?” “What do I want to accomplish?” And we wonder, “How do we do those lifts?”

This month we are going to review a few of the lifts that are very beneficial to any program, no matter the goal.

pull the bar to a full standing position. Pause for a second of contraction and slowly bend your knees and low back as you return to the starting position and repeat.

Points of Performance: Your partner should tell you if you are not keeping your back straight. It is also not necessary to use an alternating grip if it does not feel comfortable.

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The Back Squat: (Quadriceps, Gluteal, and Ham- The Bench Press: (Pectorals, Anterior Deltoids strings)

and Triceps)

Execution: The movement begins from a standing position. Bar is placed across the upper back. The movement is initiated by moving the hips back and bending the knees and hips to lower the torso and accompanying weight, then returning to the upright position.

Execution: Lying on your back, grasp the racked bar with a grip some six inches wider than shoulder width; press overhead with a slight arc to a neutral starting position directly over your shoulders. Once you’ve momentarily established and briefly held your starting position, lower the bar slowly and deliberately to the bottom of your pectoral muscles.

Points of Performance: Descending too rapidly Allow the bar to make full contact with the body and flexing the torso too far forward. Rapid descent before immediately reversing the motion and pressing the weight to its original starting point. risks being unable to complete the lift or causing injury. This occurs when the descent causes the squatting muscles to relax and tightness at the bottom is lost as a result. Over-flexing the torso greatly increases the forces exerted on the lower It is important to note that this month’s lifts, while back, risking a spinal disc herniation. Another error potentially dangerous to a person, be it beginner or where health of the knee joint is concerned is when advanced, if incorporated in a controlled and prothe knee is not aligned with the direction of the gressively more difficult strength program can be very beneficial. This includes all genders, females toes. The knee should always follow the toe and the knee should never go forward of the toes. Point especially benefit tremendously from loading the your toes slightly out (30-45 degree angle) in order spine in regards to bone development and bone to track the knee properly. This exercise should be strengthening. This is very important later in life done in a squat rack with safety bars and a partner when osteoporosis becomes a more realistic topic. to spot the lifter.

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Good luck!

The Deadlift: (Quadriceps, Gluteals and Hamstrings)

Execution: Stand before the weight in a solid, shoulder width stance (may be up to six inches wider), shin to the bar. Bend at the waist and at the knees equally and at the same time. Grasp the bar fully and securely in an alternate under/over grip about waist width (may be up to six inches wider).

Looking straight ahead, your spine in a powerful flat position (not stooped over or rounded), regulate your breathing, breath in deeply and steadily

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Exercise Key 1 Back squat starting position 2 Back squat intermediate position 3 Bench press starting position 4 Bench press intermediate position 5 Deadlift intermediate position 6 Deadlift starting position (front view) 7 Deadlift starting position (side view)

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JAG

Capt. Donnial Hinds, legal assistance & claims officer

Confused about the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA) 50 U.S.C App. 501? (Article 2 of 2) One of the more used benefits afforded to servicemembers is that residential leases may be terminated. Servicemembers may terminate a residential lease for themselves (or their dependents) upon entry into military service, after receipt of orders to deploy for no less than 90 days, or after receipt of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. Written

notice and a copy of the orders must be provided to the landlord, and termination will be effective 30 days after the first date on which the next rental payment is due if your lease requires monthly payments. Therefore, once you give written notice, the landlord can still charge you rent for 30 days after the date your next rent is due.

In order to waive protections under the SCRA once invoked, this must be affirmatively done.

No matter what a creditor says SCRA protections can only be effective if the waiver is in writing and in a separate instrument from the obligation. Just because a servicemember elects to waive certain benefits, they do not waive all other rights under the Act.

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Safety

uring the past decade 55 Soldiers have died as a result of unsafe weapons handling.

Their deaths were vastly the result of indiscipline, overconfidence and complacency. These acts included improper clearing, lack of muzzle awareness, and horseplay. These deaths do not include the 36 Soldiers who died during the same time period as the result of friendly fire accidents in combat and training events. Nor does it include the numerous Soldiers who were seriously injured due to unsafe weapons handling.

Here are key weapons handling safety points to THINK about:

• Treat every weapon as if it is loaded.

• Handle every weapon with care.

• Identify the target before you fire.

• Never point the muzzle at anything you do not intend to shoot.

• Keep the weapon on safe and your finger off the trigger until you intend to fire.

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Proper clearing procedures are detailed in the Technical Manual for the weapon system you are using. They are also prominently displayed above each of the clearing barrels here on Camp Bondsteel. Clear your weapon properly before leaving the firing line on a firing range, before performing

Chaplain

I remember the overwhelming joy and exuberance that a friend felt when he became a Christian and experienced God in his life for the very first time. Joy emanated from his life and he walked with a bounce in his step. However, he soon faced a difficult set of events. He became overwhelmed and soon felt that God had left him abandoned. He asked the daunting question the Psalmist asked, “…God, why have You forgotten me?”

Finally, be aware that the SCRA protections are only afforded to obligations entered before a servicemember has mobilized and entered active duty service.

Remember use the protections and benefits that Congress has afforded all military servicemembers.

These benefits were put in place to help servicemembers plan accordingly so that they may continue to serve honorably without distraction and disruption from some of the obligations that may plague servicemembers.

If there are any problems or questions regarding the SCRA a great resource is your local judge advocate or online at servicememberscivilreliefact.com

maintenance and before turning it over to someone else, such as the armorer.

Leaders must ensure their Soldiers are properly trained and maintain proficiency with their individual and crew-served weapons. This is accomplished by scheduling training ranges, providing Maj. Harvey Johnson, resources and detailing MNBG E safety officer plans for proper execution.

The range officer-incharge and range safety officer must ensure that primary marksmanship instruction and range safety briefings are provided. The safety briefings should include the hazards and control measures identified during the risk assessment. Finally, all Soldiers are responsible for ensuring safe weapons handling practices are observed.

Soldiers must always remember that they are directly responsible for the safe handling of their weapon; this is a basic soldiering skill. Leaders must set the example and make on the spot corrections.

Negligent discharges are preventable!

General fatigue and exhaustion can cause a person to feel downcast or troubled. Feeling downcast may also be an indication of unbelief and doubt creeping into our relationship Chaplain (Capt.) Jeffrey Hicks, with God. We may be placing MNBG E Assistant Chaplain something besides God in the center of our lives, where only God ing David, the Psalmbelongs. Disbelief and a skewed ist, shares a scenario sense of truth and reality may folthat may relate to us. low. If so, the prescription is what At times, there may be King David followed. He refono rational explanation for why cused on God, reconnected and things happen. Overwhelmed, we he renewed his relationship with are left to deal with our emotions. God. After he did, he realized God

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had not left him at all, but instead he had allowed his focus to shift away from God.

We often do not fully understand God’s purpose in our lives.

Perhaps you feel as though God has left you and you do not have the joy and closeness with God that you once did. David, in Psalm 42, reflected upon the time when he was “into the God thing.” David was exuberant, lively and “…led the multitude in procession to the house of God with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.” And now, he asks himself, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?”

I encourage you to respond as David did “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

God has the Power to keep His Promises to us and to help us.

“Be still, and know that I am God…”

KSF MPs Visit Bondsteel Soldiers attached to Kosovo Security Forces’ military police unit visit Camp Bondsteel on July 11. U.S. Army MPs showed them their facilities and practicies during the exchange, which is par t of a noncomissioned officer training program being led by Command Sgt. Major A bel V illesca, top row, r igh t.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Evan V. Lane)

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Never Broken

From Bataan to the Balkans