SOLDIERS TRAIN ON SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM TO SAVE LIVES
Article by Sergeant Maria Kappell and photographs by Specialist Ange Desinor, 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs Office

FORT HOOD, Texas – For three weeks in May 2012, 49 Soldiers assigned to Echo Battery, 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery (E/4-5 ADA) Regiment were training on a surveillance and security system.

The Soldiers were diligently training on the Base Expeditionary Targeting Surveillance Systems-Combined (BETSS-C) to prepare for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan later in the year. To properly facilitate the training, a group of specialized operators and trainers were brought in to give the Soldiers the opportunity to train like they fight.

“The training is hands-on and allows the Soldiers to get trained on the systems before they get downrange,” said Dave Skomra, a BETSS-C team leader.

The BETSS-C is made up of several different components, and the Echo Battery Soldiers spent the three weeks training on each of the respective systems. The components of the system are the Rapid Aerostat Initial-Deployment System with the Standard Ground Station, the CERBERUS Long-Range Mobile Surveillance System, the CERBERUS Scout-Surveillance System, the Force Protection Suite, and the Rapid Deployment Integrated-Surveillance System.

Each piece of this system’s puzzle adds an intricate and important part that increases the capabilities of the system as a whole. The system can monitor 360 degrees and up to 20 kilometers, day or night, while capturing video and seeking out targets. Most of all, the system helps Soldiers keep an area secure and safe.

ABOVE: Soldiers from Echo Battery, 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery (E/4-5 ADA), 69th ADA Brigade, train on the installation and setup of the Base Expeditionary Targeting Surveillance Systems-Combined (BETSS-C) at Fort Hood, Texas on 16 May 2012.  BELOW: Soldiers from E/4-5 ADA train on the BETSS-C at Fort Hood, Texas on 16 May 2012.

“BETSS-C has become a huge project in the central command [U.S. Army Central Command/CENTCOM] area because it saves a lot of lives,” Skomra said.

The trainers travel around the world to ensure Soldiers are equipped with the knowledge they need to operate BETSS-C.

“Not only is the training offered before a unit deploys, but it is also available in theater and can be tailored to fit each specific unit and commanders needs,” Skomra said.

“The Soldiers are trained and tested on all of the equipment, and there is always someone available to help Soldiers fine tune and clarify any questions they may have,” said Nicholas Wagner, a field software technician with BETSS-C.

In order to successfully complete the training, Soldiers need to spend an adequate amount of time learning about it, setting it up, working with it, moving it, and understanding the different ways they can use it to their advantage throughout their mission. Once this is accomplished, their training is complete.

AIR DEFENDERS EARN FIRST LEVEL CERTIFICATION IN COMBATIVES
Article and photograph by Specialist Shawn Denham,
35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs Office

OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea – When combat turns from long-range assault into close-quarters fighting, hand-to-hand combat skills becomes essential to a Soldier's survival.

Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB), 35th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Brigade hosted a Level-One Modern Army Combatives certification in their new combatives room from 7 through 11 May 2012.

Other combatives events have been conducted prior to this; however, this is the first for the year and the new “Viper Pit” training facility. The course allowed a group of students the chance to learn basic fighting maneuvers and earn level-one certification.  The class, built upon principles of physical training while Soldiers learned how to fight.

“It builds your body,” said Private First Class (PFC) Ross Harnevious. “We warmed up with various drills and then it takes you to your breaking point.  It teaches you to take the dominant position with your enemy.”

PFC Harnevious said he enjoyed the class and was looking forward to the second-level certification class in the future.

ABOVE:  Sergeant Michael Iannelli performs a headlock on Private First Class Ross Harnevious during a combative class while other students grapple at the new “Viper Pit” combatives facility” at Osan Air Base on 8 May 2012.

“I got to be a bit of a leader this time,” said Harnevious. “Down the line this will help with promotions and hopefully between this and other classes I can get a waiver [for faster promotion].”

The class begins with basic stretches, movement drills and other warming up activities. Once the muscles have been properly stretched and the body more limber the students move on to actual contact, where they practice grappling techniques designed to tire and subdue an enemy.

“This class went excellent,” said Sergeant (SGT) Statira Bergener, one of the class coaches. “[As a] first time setup, everything went smoothly.  [The students] fought a good fight.”

SGT Bergener said that since her certification in 2005, she has taught over 100 classes averaging 25 students in each class.

“I'll be getting my level-three certification soon,” said Bergener.

As a start-up class, SGT Brandon Bunner, a combatives coach with the 2d Infantry Division, stationed at Camp Casey, came down to train and get the program off the ground.

“Combatives is all muscle memory,” SGT Bunner said.  “It’s about doing the moves continuously and getting them down to the point where you don't have to think about it. Combatives involves several different aspects, but ninety percent of fights go to the ground so grappling techniques are the first things taught,” said Bunner.

The Soldiers received their certifications and some prepared to go on to the level-two course.  Another level-one course is planned to begin in July.

SGT Bunner is encouraging Soldiers to attend the upcoming classes to earn their level-one certifications.

ADA UNIT SUPPORTS
FORT HOOD
PARENT-TO-PARENT TEAM
Article by Specialist Ange Desinor and photographs by Sergeant Maria Kappell, both assigned to the 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs Office

FORT HOOD, Texas – Family members and the leadership of 4^th Battalion, 5^th Air Defense Artillery (4-5 ADA) Regiment’s rear detachment, attended one of Fort Hood’s Parent-to-Parent Team events on 17 May 2012 at the Oveta Culp Center. The Fort Hood Parent-to-Parent Team is a program managed by the Military Child Education Coalition and is sponsored by the United States Army.

Most of 4-5 ADA’s Soldiers are currently deployed to Southwest Asia and this event gave their families an opportunity to come together and bond with each other.

“This is the second time 4-5 ADA has supported Fort Hood’s Parent-to-Parent Team during the current deployment, and the amount of families attending the second event has almost tripled,” said Major (MAJ) Matthew Mercandante, the 4-5 ADA rear detachment commander. “Events like this are important because it gives kids an opportunity to learn, have fun, and get a break from their every day routine,” he added.

For this event, MAJ Mercandante read the children’s book Click, Clack, Moo Cows that Type to the children and their families. The children were also afforded the opportunity to learn how to draw a cow step-by-step and make cow puppets. The children received a copy of the book at the end of the event.

Military Child Education is designed for preschool children and their parents. A variety of books and programs are available for young children.  The coalition’s early literacy workshops help parents and preschoolers grow and learn. Some of their current workshops include reading, science, math, music literacy, and kindergarten readiness.

The Military Child Education program is designed specifically to get the entire family involved. The program, offers free tutoring online at tutor.com and they pass on all the resources they have to offer to the families.

“We are worldwide, and we offer our services throughout Belton County,” said Debra Faulkner, a Parent-to-Parent cadre member.

The Fort Hood Parent-to-Parent Team’s goals are to empower all parents to be their child’s best advocate. The parents and children that participate in the Fort Hood Parent-to-Parent program are open to receive high quality, research-based strategies and resources.

The Fort Hood Parent-to-Parent Team featured workshop offered this fall is Back to School Basics. The cadre is prepared to help and support family members and their children in starting the school year off organized and focused.

“This is a tremendous program that is very supportive of the Soldiers and their families, said Nicole Penland,” another Parent-to-Parent cadre member.

All the workshops are offered and available at anytime. Scheduling a particular workshop that best fit the needs of your school or unit is easy and only takes a simple phone call, (254) 458-8178, or e-mail Fort Hood’s Parent-to-Parent Team at PtoP.Hood@militarychild.org.

(Above) Trisia Moctezuma, the spouse of an Air Defender assigned to the 4^th Battalion, 5^th Air Defense Artillery (4-5 ADA) and her son, Devin, have a snack and learn how to draw a cow at the Parent-to-Parent event at the Oveta Culp Center at Fort Hood, Texas, on 17 May 2012.

(Above) The 4-5 ADA’s Rear Detachment Commander, Major Matthew Mercandante, reads the book Click, Clack, Moo Cows that Type  to children and parents at the Parent-to-Parent event held at the Oveta Culp Center on 17 May 2012.

AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE NEWS RELEASES OF INTEREST

6th AIR DEFENSE ARTILLERY BRIGADE: A HISTORY 1988-2012 (WWW.ARMY.MIL/17 May 2012) As part of the closing ceremonies of the Fires Seminar, the 6th Air Defense Artillery Brigade will be redesignated as the 30th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. This change of numerical designation re-establishes the lineage and honors of a unit that served as a coastal artillery brigade during World War I, an artillery brigade during the Cold War and up through the Camp David Accords, and now continues the history making journey as an ADA brigade.

GETTING UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH PATRIOT MISSILE TRAINER (KSWO TV-Lawton/18 May 2012)
It looks like a video game, but instead of winners and losers, the end result can be life or death. The Cognitive Air Defense Training System (CAD-TS) consists of 3 components, there's an auditorium which projects 3-D images and a room called the RT3, the Reconfigurable Table Top Trainers; however, the third is still classified. Also PATRIOT MISSILE SIMULATOR UNVEILED (Freedom 43 News TV/22 May 2012).

INHOFE: GREEN EXTREMISTS JEOPARDIZING US DEFENSE (WND.com/22 May 2012) Instead of prioritizing national security initiatives that could potentially close off emerging points of vulnerability to the U.S., the Obama administration is advancing a radical green agenda  …

NATO DECLARES EUROPEAN MISSILE SHIELD UP AND RUNNING (CBS News/21 May 2012) NATO says that its European missile shield is up and running with a basic capability to shoot down incoming missiles. Also NATO MISSILE DEFENCE SHIELD 'UP AND RUNNING (BBC/19 May 2012)

GLAESER: THE RIGHT APPROACH TO MISSILE DEFENSE (Roll Call/21 May 2012) Last week, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told Congress that China is assisting North Korea with its missile program. The secretary’s admission came on the heels of the hermit nation’s internationally condemned test rocket launch. Though the test launch failed, North Korea has promised that more tests — including a nuclear one — are to come. It’s therefore vital that the United States, in coordination with other developed powers, maintain defenses capable of protecting against the very real threat of a missile strike.

ANOTHER $250 MILLION SPENT ON A MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM (ALMOST) NO ONE WANTS (ALLGOV.com/20 May 2012)  The Department of Defense has refused to give up on a costly missile defense system that has yet to prove its worthiness for the battlefield, arguing that hundreds of millions of dollars more should be spent to keep the Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) program alive.

**LETTER TO THE EDITOR: U.S. ARMY NEEDS MEADS, NOT PATRIOT (Washington Times/27 April 2012) As a rebuttal to Robert Newton's op-ed column ("Getting Bad Actors Out of Missile Defense"), retired Major General James J. Cravens speaks his mind on misleading information about the Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) capabilities and progress. (**Added by request on 6/19/2012)

Commander, 3-4 ADA, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Richard A. Harrison (front), and Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Paris A. Williams, 3-4 ADA’s Battalion CSM, exit the plane at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina, that returned them home from an 11-month deployment on 29 April 2012.
(U.S. Army photo by Captain Jonathon M. Lewis, 108th Air Defense Brigade.)

3-4 ADA RETURNS AFTER ELEVEN-MONTH DEPLOYMENT
Article by Army Staff Sergeant Vianne R. Davis, 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs

FORT BRAGG, North Carolina – The 3rd Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery (3-4 ADA) Regiment, 108th ADA Brigade completed an eleven month deployment to Southwest Asia. The unit’s advanced echelon (ADVON) personnel returned on 5 April 2012, while the main body of 3-4 ADA’s Soldiers followed on 29 April 2012.

The battalion’s overall mission was to provide air and missile defense of critical defense assets in support of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The unit’s objectives were to enhance strategic relationships and reassure coalition partners in specified areas of responsibility. Protection of critical assets from tactical ballistic missiles and air breathing threats fell to the Soldiers of 3-4 ADA to enhance regional stability and allow freedom of maneuver for U.S. and coalition forces.

The battalion had had only four months preparation time prior to their deployment departure in May 2011. Within seventy-two hours of taking command of 3-4 ADA, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Harrison boarded a plane to deploy with his battalion.

“For the first time in twenty years the battalion commander deployed with the battalion’s colors,” said Paris Williams, 3-4 ADA’s Command Sergeant Major (CSM).

One Soldier in particular who had to overcome very tough personal complications was Specialist (SPC) Brittany Durant, the 3-4 ADA, Headquarters Battery medic. Her mother, Mrs. Terri Manthei is a major supporter of her Brittany’s military career, as well as her daughter deploying with her unit.

“When she deployed, I was at her house, trying to salvage the remainder of her belongings that was devastated by tornados; yet she still left, entrusting everything to her husband and me to try to piece together,” said Mrs. Manthei.

At left, Specialist (SPC) Brittany Durant assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB), 3^rd Battalion, 4^th Air Defense Artillery (3-4 ADA) Regiment as a medic and her Mother, Mrs. Terri Manthei, are all smiles as they were reunited at Green Ramp 3-4 ADA’s after the Battalion’s redeployment ceremony at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on 5 April 2012.  At right, Soldiers from 3-4 ADA reunite with family members at Green Ramp after the unit’s redeployment ceremony on 5 April 2012.
(U.S. Army photos both by Captain Ebony J. Malloy, 108th Air Defense Brigade Public Affairs Officer.)
Below, Children from the families of 3-4 ADA’s Soldiers await the return of their previously deployed parent on 29 April 2012.
(U.S. Army photo by Captain Jonathon M. Lewis, 108th Air Defense Brigade.)


Although Durant endured personal hardships in the midst of her preparation for deployment; her commitment to her unit and the United States Army enabled her to carry out her part of 3-4 ADA’s mission while downrange.

“I have a great family and because of that my concerns were lessened because I knew my family would take care of it,” said SPC Durant.

Soldiers in the unit were encouraged to use their time oversees to accomplish as many individual goals as possible.

“We had Soldiers accomplishing significant personal goals, such as working towards their degrees, financial management, and improving physical fitness. One Soldier was able to lose seventy-one pounds while deployed,” said LTC Harrison.

About twenty-five Soldiers were also motivated to change their financial lifestyles after attending financial management classes that were available for them. The battalion had to rely on discipline, training and mentorship from CSM Williams in order to effectively accomplish their roles and positions under the constraints they had to operate in while deployed.

“We put our senior noncommissioned officers (NCOs) in key leader positions and took our young specialists and put them in critical positions and they all performed very well,” said LTC Harrison.

The unit returned to Fort Bragg after completing their mission, ready to reintegrate with loved ones and conducted future reset training preparing for the next mission.

“We set the bar throughout our area of operation through numerous crew evaluations, displaying professionalism and execution of our mission. We partnered seamlessly with the host nation, and worked jointly with the Air Force during the deployment,” said LTC Harrison.

At left, LTC Richard A. Harrison, 3-4 ADA Commander, addresses family members at Green Ramp (Pope Army Airfield) during 3-4 ADA's redeployment ceremony on 29 April 2012. At right, The Soldiers of 3-4 ADA march off Pope Army Airfield with their Commander and Command Sergeant Major (CSM), Lieutenant Colonel Richard A. Harrison, CSM Paris A. Williams, leading the formation with the battalion colors after exiting the plane at Green Ramp on 29 April 2012.
(U.S. Army photos by Captain Jonathon M. Lewis, 108th Air Defense Brigade.)

10th ARMY AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE COMMAND’S 2012 BEST WARRIOR COMPETITION
Article by Second Lieutenant Jean P. Tomte,
10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command Public Affairs Officer

RHINE ORDNANCE BARRACKS, GERMANY – Twenty Soldiers from the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC) competed in the 2012 Best Warrior Competition from 14 through 18 May 2012 to determine the most qualified candidate to represent the 10th AAMDC at the U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR) competition in August. The categories and rank eligibility to compete in each was Junior Officers within the ranks of second lieutenant (2LT) through captain (CPT) who has not completed the Captain’s Career Course; Noncommissioned Officers (NCOs) within the ranks of corporal (CPL) through Sergeant First Class (SFC); and Enlisted Soldiers within the ranks of Private (PVT) through Specialist (SPC).

The 10th AAMDC Chief of Staff Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Benjamin Ogden briefed the competitors on the first day of the competition. “I see this as a best professional warrior competition. By simply competing, you’ve already come out as the highest professionals in this organization” said Ogden. He continued, “You have to maintain your technical proficiency as Soldier and this event will test that.”

Warriors who stepped up to compete have to master a series of events. During the competition, these warriors tested their ability to complete the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), a 20 kilometer foot march, the stress shoot, the obstacle course, day and night land navigation, the M16 rifle qualification range, a mystery event, the Physical Readiness Training (PRT) session, writing an essay and all Army Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills that are applicable to today’s warfare environment.

Additionally, Warriors appeared in front of a board to evaluate their knowledge in general on military bearing, résumés, reporting procedures, uniform and appearance, and oral expression.


At left, SPC Jairo E. Garcia assigned to 5-7 ADA, performs the day land navigation phase of the 10^th AAMDC’s 2012 Best Warrior Competition at Rhine Ordnance Barracks, Germany, in May 2012. (U.S. Army photograph by Sergeant Megan Boyer, 10th AAMDC Public Affairs Office.)

“The training is going great, we all trained up before we got here. Now it is time to put what we learned at the battery level into practice” said Staff Sergeant (SSG) Cedric Whitlock from Rock Hill, S.C. Whitlock is a Patriot Launcher Platoon Squad Leader from D/5-7 ADA. When asked what his level of confidence was before starting the night land navigation session, Whitlock replied “I never felt so confident. It depends how far apart my points are. I believe I can find all my three points in one hour.”

The grading process was tough and fair, and the maximum points that could be achieved were 370.

“Soldiers are getting fatigued and that’s what this competition is all about. It gets you thinking critically and reacting to obstacles,” said SFC Derek Salley from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. SFC Salley was one of the evaluators.

“My job during this exercise was to distract the competitors and see if they would notice the brief case on the side of the car” said SPC Robert Duverger from Boston, Massachusetts. SPC Duverger works as a Patriot Operator Maintainer.

The winners of the competition were First Lieutenant (1LT) Joshua A. Herrington from Alpha Battery, 5^th Battalion 7^th Air Defense Artillery (A/5-7 ADA); SFC Jesus M. Arellano from C/5-7 ADA; SPC James L. Earl from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB)/5-7 ADA.

The 10th AAMDC Officer, NCO and Soldier Best Warrior Competition Winners will receive several awards and recognition and will represent the Command at the USAREUR competition.

Specialist (SPC) Justin McCarty assigned to the 5^th Battalion, 7^th Air Defense Artillery (5-7 ADA) Regiment, rushes through the final phase of the obstacle course for the 10^th Army Air and Missile Defense Command’s (AAMDC’s)  2012  Best Warrior Competition at Rhine Ordnance Barracks, Germany, in May 2012. (U.S. Army photograph by Sergeant Megan Boyer, 10th AAMDC Public Affairs Office.)

THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ARMY AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE COMMAND IN EUROPE
Article by Sergeant Megan Boyer, 10th U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Command Public Affairs

Kaiserslautern, Germany — The 10th U.S. Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC), located at Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Kaiserslautern, Germany, serves as the U.S. Army Europe’s executive agent for all theater air and missile defense (AMD) operations and force management. Formally known as 357th Air and Missile Defense Detachment (AAMDC-D), the 10th AAMDC was activated on 17 October 2011, but wasn’t fully recognized as such until the redesignation ceremony on 5 January 2012.

The 10th AAMDC vigorously participates in events such as cross-combatant command and global ballistic missile defense (BMD) seminars, table top exercises, integrated AMD information sharing and alliance building as it deploys Patriot units quarterly to Poland to conduct multinational training events.

Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Benjamin Ogden, 10th AAMDC Chief of Staff explained, “We have become a doctrinally sound organization that is comparable to the other combatant commands. Each combatant command doctrinally needs a AAMDC to help facilitate the AMD operations and to provide the needed and necessary capabilities within the European command that the 357th AAMD-D could not provide.”

Currently, the 10th AAMDC is manned, trained and equipped to communicate, shoot and move across any theater of operation. Their competence and proficiency rests on four pillars: Soldier and Family readiness, equipment readiness, training readiness and combat readiness.

Sergeant (SGT) Milo Estrello, administrative assistant noncommissioned officer-in-charge (NCOIC) for the 10th AAMDC stated, “I am absolutely confident with this unit’s capabilities, motivation and dedication that our troops display daily. I can sleep at night knowing my son will be ok because of the work that is done by 10th AAMDC.”

“Knowing that in a minute’s time we can be called upon to protect our assets makes it a very rewarding experience to be a European defender,” said SGT Andrew Boyer, a squad leader assigned to Delta Battery, 5^th Battalion, 7^th Air Defense Artillery (D/5-7 ADA).

In addition to their missions, 10th AAMDC conducts training readiness authority over 5-7 ADA and the 11th Missile Defense Detachment (an SMDC unit). This generates a well-trained air defense Patriot Battalion where individual, as well as, collective readiness training is completed.

With the importance of BMD increasing around the world, the 10th AAMDC is a critical asset to the United States European Command and the symbol of Air Defense Artillery across Europe.

European Defender – Strength and Excellence!

BEST OF THE BEST COMPETE AT FORT BLISS: 32d AAMDC Hosts Annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition
Article is a collaborative submission of the 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command
Public Affairs Office (PAO).

More than two dozen Soldiers from across the 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC) competed for the crown of this year's "Best of the Best" during the command's thord annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition that began on 30 April 2012 at Fort Bliss, Texas.

The 32d AAMDC, comprised of four brigades, thirteen battalions and nearly 10,000 Soldiers, holds this yearly competition to recognize excellence throughout its formations. Each of the four brigades hand-selected their best Soldiers and leaders, from Joint Base Lewis-McCord, Fort Sill, Fort Bliss, Fort Hood, Fort Campbell, and Fort Bragg, to compete in the competition.

The four-day competition truly tested the Soldiers’ leadership skills, mental and physical toughness, and tactical decision making skills in order to determine the 32d AAMDC’s: Soldier, Noncommissioned Officer (NCO), and Officer of the Year; Equal Opportunity Advisor of the Year; Career Counselor of the Year; Culinary Arts Junior and Senior Chef of the Year; and Volunteer of the Year.

Competitive events included an Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), day and night Urban Orienteering, M-16 rifle qualification, Army Warrior Task lanes, Combatives, a leadership board, occupational specialty expertise, and two mystery events.

“We wanted to make it strenuous for the Soldiers competing … [our goal] was to make sure there were a lot of physical activities,” said Master Sergeant (MSG) David Goldsmith, the competition’s noncommissioned officer-in-charge (NCOIC).

The first mystery event was a tactical decision-making exercise. It required competitors to determine the best method to move several objects from one location to another while battling fatigue, heat, and time. A few of the objects included full five-gallon water jugs, High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) tires, sandbags, two-by-fours, and a heavy-duty rope.

The second mystery event required the competitors to maneuver through, over and/or under obstacles on the Air Assault Obstacle Course in Abernathy Park on Fort Bliss.

“As for the mystery events, because we had no idea what to expect, I did all I could to make sure I was solid in the foundation of leadership and warrior tasks,” said Captain (CPT) Tarik T. Jones, an officer of the year competitor from the 31st Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Brigade at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

The competition also included specialty events geared toward testing the competency and proficiency of the food service, retention, and equal opportunity Soldiers and leaders.

“This year’s [competition] was much more difficult, because we didn’t have a menu to go off of,” said Sergeant (SGT) Derek Miller, senior chef representative for the 31st ADA Brigade. “We did a lot of preparing back at Fort Sill, but we didn’t really know what the cooking portion would include.”

The final event of the competition matched competitors against one another in the Blackjack Warrior Modern Army Combatives tournament. This tournament featured light-, middle- and heavy-weight classes.

“The hardest event, for me physically, was the Urban Orienteering, because it was very physically demanding as far as wearing the plates and also running around a post at such a high elevation,” said Jones. “The most mentally challenging event was obviously the leadership board [appearance].”

Announcement of the winners for this year’s Blackjack Warrior Week Competition came during a recognition ceremony held on 4 May 2012 at the Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums.

“This past week, 28 of our best officers, noncommissioned officers and Soldiers gathered at Fort Bliss, Texas, to test their technical skills, tactical knowledge, and physical and mental stamina,” said Command Sergeant Major (CSM) James N. Ross, senior enlisted adviser for the 32d AAMDC. “Throughout this four-day [competition], these warriors continually exemplified the attributes and characteristics that are desired in all US Army Soldiers.”

The competition was tough, but in the end the 31st ADA Brigade Soldiers swept every category. The winners were: CPT Tarik T. Jones, 32d AAMDC Officer of the Year; Staff Sergeant (SSG) Matthew R. Seelig, 32d AAMDC NCO of the Year; Specialist (SPC) Chad Puterbaugh, 32d AAMDC Soldier of the Year; SGT Derek Miller, 32d AAMDC Senior Chef of the Year; Private First Class (PFC) Ladasha Simmons, 32d AAMDC Junior Chef of the Year; Sergeant First Class (SFC) Christopher M. Johnston, 32d AAMDC Equal Opportunity Advisor of the Year; SSG Kevin Davis, 32d AAMDC Career Counselor of the Year; and, PFC Vaidehe Shah, 32d AAMDC Volunteer of the Year.

Each of the competitors received a certificate of appreciation amongst other gifts for their exemplary efforts throughout the week. Winners in each category, however, were awarded an Army Commendation Medal and a trophy for being the “Best of the Best.”

“Every competitor should be extremely proud of their performance over the past four days,” said Ross. “Each warrior who took part in this competition is a winner; they truly represent the best of our Army and the Nation.”

CLICK ON THUMBNAILS BELOW TO SEE PHOTOGRAPHS IN FULL SIZE

Explanation ===== SFC Esgar Reyes, an event NCOIC, explains the Tactical Problem Solving Course to Second Lieutenant (2LT) Janiszen during 32d AAMDC’s third annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition held 30 April through 4 May 2012 at Fort Bliss, Texas. (Photo by SPC Jacoby Davis, 32d AAMDC PAO.)



Wall === CPT Tarik Jones, representing the 31st ADA Brigade in the officer category, propels himself over the five-foot wall, one of the many obstacles on the Air Assault Obstacle Course in Abernathy Park (on Fort Bliss) that competitors of the 32d AAMDC’s Blackjack Warrior Week had to overcome. CPT Jones went on to win the 32d AAMDC Officer of the Year category despite tough competition from representatives of 32d AAMDC‘s other three subordinate brigades.
(Photograph by SPC Jacoby Davis, 32d AAMDC PAO.)

Climb === SPC Hose Eschevaria, the Soldier of the Year representative from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB), 32d AAMDC, climbs a 15-foot obstacle after navigating many other strenuous challenges on the Air Assault Obstacle Course in Abernathy Park during the 32d AAMDC’s third annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition held from 30 April through 4 May 2012.
(Photograph by SPC Jacoby Davis, 32d AAMDC PAO.)

Prep === SGT Derek Miller, senior chef, representing the 31st ADA Brigade, prepares to serve a bread pudding with raspberry reduction sauce during the senior and junior chef portion of 32d AAMDC’s third annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition. SGT Miller was named this year’s 32d AAMDC Senior Chef of the Year. (Photograph by SPC Jacoby Davis, 32d AAMDC PAO.)

IRON HORSE SOLDIERS EXPERIENCE
KOREAN CULTURE
Article and photograph by Specialist Shawn Denham, 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs Office

Soldiers, Airmen and their spouses learn to assemble bead bracelets and enjoy a tea ceremony (background) while at a Buddhist temple during a Korean Cultural Tour on 16 May 2012. The tour provided the group a chance to explore a part of the Korean culture and experience new things.

OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea – One of the benefits of a tour of duty overseas is the opportunity to experience another culture. Cultural exchanges bring new and sometimes exciting aspects to Soldiers during their time abroad, as with those assigned to the 35th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Brigade and subordinate battalions in the Republic of Korea.

Soldiers from the 6th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery (6-52 ADA), 35th ADA Brigade, attended a Korean Cultural Tour through Pyongtaek, South Korea on 16 May 2012.

Along with the 6-52 ADA Soldiers, Airmen and spouses from both branches took a bus from Osan Air Base and traveled to the Pyongtaek Shipyards. There they were given a tour of the docking station and facilities, complete with a ride in a boat skirting the shoreline.

Afterward, lunch was served in a traditional Korean restaurant, where the Soldiers, Airmen and spouses were treated to hot Korean dishes while sitting on the floor, in the traditional style.

“I was really surprised,” said Tiffany Romero, wife of Private First Class (PFC) Elias Romero.  “The food was really good; better than what I thought it would be.”

There was a lot of variety served during the meal, said Chaplain (Captain/CPT) Joshua Ade.

After lunch, the tour group loaded back on the bus and moved to their next location; a Buddhist Temple, called Wongaksa, the group was shown how to make traditional Korean artwork candle lamps, make glass-bead bracelets and participate in a traditional Korean tea ceremony.

After the arts and tea were completed, the Soldiers, Airmen and family members were allowed to tour the large facility, dedicated to Buddha and those who follow his teachings.  The facility included several small temples, a large central temple with golden statues, several small outdoor statues and a very large outdoor statue of Buddha himself, seated in the famous “lotus” position. In several of the causeways between the temples, paper lamps hung from strings with tags attached underneath. The same tags could be seen hanging from the rafters inside the temples.

“I learned that the little tags inside the temple are prayers people write down, then hang up,” said Mrs. Romero. “This is very different than the [United States]; you don't get to walk around and see this when you're in the US.”

The tour gave the Iron Horse Soldiers an up-close and personal view of Korean customs, food and religious practices.

“I am really enjoying the culture,” said PFC Elias Romero. “We've been seeing the culture of the Buddhists and enjoying the festivities they have to show us. It's good to have an open mind when experiencing the Korean culture,” said Romero.

Although just an afternoon long, the tour gave Soldiers a chance to see things they may not have seen otherwise.

“It is important for Soldiers to get outside of their base and explore,” said CPT Ade. “[This tour] brings enlightenment to those of us who have never been here before,” Ade added.

CPT Ade encouraged Soldiers stationed abroad to consider Korea as a possible place for a tour of duty in the future.

“For people thinking about coming to Korea, it’s a wonderful place to be,” said CPT Ade. “Initially when I was coming I didn't know it would be like this. I thank God I came, and I love it.”

SOLDIERS AND SPOUSES FROM 2-1 ADA OBSERVE THE SEXUAL ASSUALT/HARASSMENT AWARENESS MONTH AND MONTH OF MILITARY CHILDREN
Article and photo by Sergeant First Class Jason L. Kennedy,
2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs

Female Soldiers assigned to and military Spouses affiliated with the 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery (2-1 ADA) Regiment, Camp Carroll, South Korea, run during the Female Mentorship Fun Run/Walk on 27 April 2012. Participants  pictured are (from right to left) Private First Class (PFC) Nicole C. Ogelvie, Staff Sergeant (SSG) Kimerbly T. Cook, Specialist (SPC) Lisa A. McClelland, Sergeant (SGT) Tiffney R. Johnson, PFC Rachel M. Dobbs, Private Second Class (PV2) Sandra C. Patno, SGT Siddoni L. Logan, and PFC Sofia D. Aguayo.

CAMP CARROLL, South Korea – On 27 April 2012, female Soldiers and military wives, some with their children, representing the 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery (2-1 ADA) Regiment “Guardians” participated in the camp’s Female Mentorship Fun Run/Walk.

The event was hosted by the 2-1 ADA Family Readiness Group (FRG) and designed to be a relaxed environment for the participants. It allowed the women and their children to join together to acknowledge Sexual Assault/Harassment Awareness Month, while also honoring Military Children’s Month.

“The purpose of the run was to observe sexual assault/harassment awareness month, and in commemoration of April being the month of the military child,” said Staff Sergeant Kimberly Cook, event coordinator and noncommissioned officer-in-charge. “In addition to foster mentoring relationships, participating Soldiers and mentors have the opportunity to focus on their careers, personal development, and team building skills.”

Cook also commented that the goal is to make sure that female Soldiers at any rank know that they can have role models to emulate, not imitate.

The 55 participants began the event at 6 A.M. with preparation drills led by Sergeant Nina Richards. Afterward, two groups broke off—runners and walkers. The walkers completed two-miles with strollers and toddlers atop their mother’s shoulders while the runners ran 3.10 miles with random pit-stops for some additional strength exercises. Accompanying the runners were 2-1 ADA’s Commander Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) J.M Rose Jr., and Command Sergeant Major John W. Foley.

The final activity was an open forum where the women shared individual experiences and words of inspiration and wisdom related to sexual assault/ harassment among the group.

When asked about his thoughts about the event, LTC Rose stated, “It proved to be a spirited, morale-boosting event for over 40 female Soldiers and spouses; they clearly enjoyed the time together and a chance to step out of the normal daily routine.”

Incorporating other 2-1 ADA team building activities, such as relays and the integration of male Soldiers and spouses is in the planning stages and is expected to be implemented by this summer.

CUTLINES – Female Soldiers assigned to and military Spouses affiliated with the 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery (2-1 ADA) Regiment, Camp Carroll, South Korea, run during the Female Mentorship Fun Run/Walk on 27 April 2012.

10th ARMY AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE COMMAND’S PATRIOT DEPART FOR POLISH ROTATION
Article by Second Lieutenant Jean P. Tomte, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command Public Affairs

RHINE ORDNANCE BARRACKS, Germany – In August of 2008, the United States and the Republic of Poland signed a declaration of strategic cooperation to strengthen missile defense in eastern Europe and solidify a strategic partnership. The two nations concurred that a bilateral relationship would be beneficial; thus, they agreed to the expansion of a joint air and missile defense cooperation. The success of these rotations has been attributed to the commitment of U.S. Army Patriot Air and Missile Defense Soldiers stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany, and has played an essential role in enhancing U.S.-Polish cooperation, as well as strengthening the strategic partnership of both nations.

A rotational deployment was established exclusively for training and training exercise. The rotational deployments to Torun, Utka and Morag, have provided both American and Polish Soldiers the opportunity to gain and share valuable tactics, techniques, strategy and knowledge.

A U.S. Soldier assigned to the 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery (5-7 ADA) Regiment home-based in Kaiserslautern, Germany, is teaching Polish Soldiers generator operations. (U.S. Army photo.)

Captain Michael Unbehauen, the action Officer for P2P said, “It is important for our Soldiers to work with Soldiers from other countries especially NATO partners.” He continued by saying, “I was amazed to see how well the Polish military tried everything to accommodate us and how well we were received in Poland.”

The initial planning conference was held in Warsaw, and so far nine rotations are completed. U.S. Army Europe (USAEUR) is the lead component and rotates one Patriot battery to Poland for no less than 30 days every quarter.

Soldiers from the 10th AAMDC and the Polish Air Force have demonstrated a strong commitment and the willingness to share their experiences during these rotations. Soldiers from both nations expand their relationship through training such as partnership ranges, soccer games and social events. The partnership range gives both the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the some of the other’s respective weapons (the U.S. M16A2, M249 and M9; and Polish UZI, PKR, and AK 47).

Soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery (5-7 ADA) Regiment are interacting with Polish Soldier in Torun Poland (U.S. Army photo.)

“I have grown as a Soldier by experiencing cooperative training with the Polish Military,” said Private First Class (PFC) Francisco Flores from Dallas Texas.

PFC Flores works as a Tactical Control Assistant, assigned to Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery (A/5-7 ADA) Regiment. When asked what was surprising about the assignment Flores replied, “The eagerness of the Polish to learn our Patriot equipment.”

The 10th AAMDC is training select Polish Air Force personnel on Patriot equipment and familiarizing them with U.S. training and operation methods to improve operational familiarity furthering U.S.-Polish air and missile defense cooperation.

Cutline: 21032012-A-B6969-5157- Soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery (5-7 ADA) Regiment are interacting with Polish Soldier in Torun Poland (U.S. Army photo.)

21032012-A-B6969-5154- A U.S. Soldier assigned to the 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery (5-7 ADA) Regiment home-based in Kaiserslautern, Germany, is teaching Polish Soldiers generator operations. (U.S. Army photo.)

2-1 ADA WINS THE 8th ARMY INDOOR SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP
Article and photo by Staff Sergeant Jason L. Kennedy,
2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery Public Affairs

CAMP CARROLL, South Korea – Teams from across the South Korean peninsula met at the Camp Carroll Gymnasium to compete in the 8th Army Indoor Soccer Championship on 22 April 2012.

Six teams and their supporters traveled from across the peninsula to participate in the final showdown: Bravo Company, 2d Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment (B/2-9 INF); Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC)/2-9 INF; a combination of units calling themselves “Bulldogs-A” and “Bulldogs-B”; 168th Medical Battalion collectively; and 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery (2-1 ADA) Regiment.

2-1 ADA’s Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army (KATUSA) Soldiers represented their unit throughout the Indoor Soccer season; altogether they won the Camp Carroll pre-season and season championships, Area IV Championship, KATUSA Friendship Week Championship and now the 8th Army Championship.

In the second round, the 2-1 ADA “Guardians” and Bulldogs-A faced-off in an even match with a tied score of 3-to-3 in the closing minutes of the game.  As the game was about to end, a penalty shootout was called and 2-1 ADA closed out the round with a 4-to-3 win.

After winning in the losers’ bracket, Bulldogs-A graduated to the winners’ bracket as the underdogs. Once more the Bulldogs would have the opportunity to challenge the undefeated Guardian team for the trophy and bragging rights; an opportunity to come from behind and finish victorious. Living up to its name, the Guardians defended their position. The 2-1 ADA Guardians ended the game with a final score of 5-to-3 and concluded the season maintaining an undefeated record and securing the 8th Army Championship trophy.

When asked about the factors that helped lead their team to victory, the players’ answers were unanimous. Trophy winner and youngest member of the team, Private First Class (PFC) Haneol Park, said that he felt their success came from star players.

“Corporal Young Park and PFC Jung Hwan Choi were our best players that led our team in goals,” said Park. “But I also think we won because of our team work [and] our organizational support [and] we were very proud!”

Team Captain, PFC Jung Hwan Choi wanted to give a “special thanks to all the guests, the unit chain of command, family members, and fellow Soldiers for their support. As next year’s Captain, I would like to come back to defend our trophies with a joint team, American and KATUSA.”

The 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery Commander, Lieutenant Colonel J. Michael Rose, Jr. (center left),
and Command Sergeant Major John W. Foley (center right), pose with their KATUSA indoor soccer team
with trophies from the 8th Army Indoor Soccer Championship Tournament, held at Camp Carroll, South Korea, on 22 April 2012.

108th ADA SOLDIERS TOOK PART IN BRAGG MOTORCYCLE SAFETY RALLY
Article and photographs by Staff Sergeant Vianne R. Davis,
108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Public Affairs

Fort Bragg cyclists gather outside the Pinehurst Hotel on the grounds of the Pinehurst Golf and
Country Club in Southern Pines, North Carolina, on 16 May 2012.

FORT BRAGG, North Carolina – Soldiers from 108th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Brigade participated in the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) Motorcycle Safety Rally on 16 May 2012. Over one hundred riders from Fort Bragg participated in the rally, ten of which were from the 108th ADA Brigade.

Soldiers assembled at Parking Lot E at the intersection of Randolph Street and Souter Plaza for the start of the rally. Riders showed up between 0800 and 0900 for inspections and registration. The rally was hosted by the FORSCOM Ground Safety Director, Jesse Martin; FORSCOM Ground Safety Noncommissioned Officer (NCO), Sergeant Major (SGM) Carolyn Williams; and Sergeant First Class (SFC) Robert Correa, the FORSCOM and US Army Reserve Command Motorcycle Mentorship Program Director.

The rally was organized to emphasize motorcycle safety, provide mentorship to younger, less experienced riders, and bring awareness to surrounding communities pertaining to the number of motorcycle riders that are present in the Fort Bragg area.

“Our goals are to educate new riders, get rid of unsafe riding practices, and replace them with good riding habits,” said SFC Correa.

Captain (CPT) Jonathon Lewis, Motorcycle Safety Officer for the 108th ADA Brigade, spoke about how the brigade encourages all Soldiers to participate in programs that are designed to implement and enforce safety here on Fort Bragg and surrounding areas.

“I’m a big advocate of motorcycle mentorship and safety events,” said CPT Lewis. “We must use senior mentors to ensure safety precautions and practices are distributed down to the lowest level. It is extremely important to reinforce safety from a command perspective,” Lewis continued.

The ride began on post with a military police escorts to aid with traffic control and to ensure the safe departure of the cyclists. Once the riders were outside the Fort Bragg gate, local police escorted the riders to the Pinehurst Golf and Country Club in Southern Pines, where the participants ate lunch. After lunch, the riders rode back to Fort Bragg and conducted an after action review (AAR) of the ride.

Comments that were discussed in the AAR consisted of recommendations on how to make the ride safer for the next rally, improvements on the way riders switched lanes and used hand signals, and tips experienced riders use to improve their safety while riding. The overall event was an educational means of promoting safety to all motorcycle riders.

“I spoke to participants after the ride and their comments were very positive,” said David Martin, 108th ADA Brigade Safety Manager. “Each motorcycle rally, I see our riders grow and become more aware of the importance of safe riding habits,” said Martin.

“I was impressed with the tight formation that the riders maintained throughout the route. It is encouraging to see riders practicing safety and taking necessary precautions,” said SGM Williams.

“This was a great experience for younger riders to see what it’s like to ride in a large group; and gave leaders and mentors an opportunity to put an emphasis on motorcycle safety,” said Staff Sergeant (SSG) James Hoffman, 3d Battalion, 4^th ADA Regiment Motorcycle Safety NCO.

(Left) Soldiers from various units on Fort Bragg rode their motorcycles down Randolph Street during the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) Motorcycle Safety Rally on their way to Pinehurst Golf and Country Club in Southern Pines, North Carolina, on 16 May 2012. (Right) Soldiers from the 108th ADA Brigade stand next to their bikes in Parking Lot E prior to their drive to Pinehurst Golf and Country Club in Southern Pines, North Carolina, on 16 May 2012.

(Above photos) Fort Bragg cyclists registered and received a safety briefing as well as a motorcycle
pre-inspections prior to their drive to Southern Pines on  16 May 2012.

To see the photos above in full size, click on the thumbnails individually.

Air Defense Regimental CSM Visit Suwon
Article by Specialist Issac Castleberry,
6th Battalion, 52d Air Defense Artillery Public Affairs
The Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Regimental Command Sergeant Major (CSM) James T. Carr Sr.(center), poses for a photo with the senior noncommissioned officers of the 6th Battalion, 52d ADA Regiment ("Iron Horse" Battalion) at Suwon Air Base, South Korea, in April 2012.

The Army is about people; once we lose sight of people then we fail as leaders.  These are a few, out of the many, words of wisdom  the Soldiers of the 6th Battalion 52d Air Defense Artillery (6-52 ADA) received from Command Sergeant Major (CSM) James T. Carr Sr. as he visited the air defenders of Suwon Air Base to address concerns over the future of Air Defense Artillery (ADA).

The day started with a brisk three mile “Enlisted” only run.  Although weather conditions weren’t exactly ideal, the “Iron Horse” Battalion showed resilience and determination as they demonstrated that it takes more than an act of nature to stop the “Iron Horse” Battalion from training.

After the run, seniors noncommissioned officers (NCOs) had an empowering breakfast as they listened to CSM Carr share his 31 years of wisdom and experience while they ate.  CSM Carr expressed his deep love for the Air Defense community and his love for the Soldiers.  Carr also provided some insight on the future of Air Defense Artillery, stating that as some military occupational specialties (MOSs) will split, dividing the current shared force structure; other MOSs will grow, requiring more Soldiers to fill the added positions in the near future.  This news ensured the senior NCOs that they could rest easy knowing that Air Defense is not only here to stay, but also to continue growing.

But the highlight of CSM Carr’s conversation with the senior NCOs of the “Iron Horse” Battalion was the information he presented to them that outlined the requirements necessary to obtain a competitive edge when competing for promotion.  The CSM emphasized the need to show versatility in today’s Army.

“Being able to be a warfighter and then come back and train Soldiers shows that you are able to do everything required of you as both a leader and a Soldier,” said Carr.

After the breakfast conclude CSM Carr, along with senior leaders and a representative from each staff shop, convened in the battalion conference room.  Here CSM Timothy D. Hockenberry laid out the accomplishments of the battalion, both past and present. CSM Hockenberry then presented the battalion’s war strength and mission readiness capabilities report. The report verified that the battalion’s Soldiers were properly train and that the battalion is always in a ready to fire stance.  CSM Hockenberry also gave CSM Carr a comprehensive look at some programs that were instituted to ensure Soldier safety.  Such programs were, but are not limited to, the Boss I Am Strong Program, Female Mentorship Program, and the "iron Horse" Indoctrination Course (IHIC) Safety Integration for new Soldiers, just to name a few.

CSM Hockenberry concluded the meeting with a blueprint for the “Iron Horse” Battalion including key leaders from both battalion and batteries expected to transition out this coming quarter.  The 6-52 ADA, CSM Hockenberry, ensured CSM Carr that the battalion will remain vigilant and proficient during this transition period.

During lunch CSM Carr was greeted with a packed dining facility (DFAC) full of “Iron Horse” Soldiers, both air defenders and support personnel, eagerly waiting to be addressed by a person of CSM Carr’s experience and stature.   Carr didn’t fail to electrify the audience as he addressed the masses with a brief about the future of ADA. The Regimental CSM [Carr] gave Soldiers the benefit of lessons he’s learned over a lifetime and accumulated during his 31 years of service.

                   
(Click on the thumbnail photos above and below to see the photos in actual size.)

“There’s nothing – as perfect soldier!” Carr said.  “And through my career, I wasn’t the smartest nor, did I do the best at everything, but I was a great people person and I was always professional.”

These words struck home with a lot of the Soldiers as they realized that even being far from perfect or failing to excel at everything doesn’t make them less of a Soldier.  Trying hard and never giving up is what matters.

Private First Class (PFC) Jade Blanche, 19, of Monroe, Georgia, said, “I know there are a lot of areas I need to work at to improve myself enough to stand out for promotion. But this is the motivation I need to progress in my career.  I don’t have to be the fastest or the smartest.  I just have to try and be the best Soldier I can be.”

During the brief CSM Carr also made it clear that he wasn’t only there for ADA Soldiers, but for Soldiers in general.  Carr wanted every Soldier to understand that no matter what your MOS is, it’s a senior leaders job (including himself) to ensure Soldiers’ needs are taken care of for their own professional development. Even if it takes branching out to other Regiments’ CSMs and establishing a line of communication to ensure Soldiers can get the best possible help for advancement in their career.

CSM Carr’s optimism and down-to-earth attitude put the Soldiers at ease. His sense of humor was infectious and Soldiers laughed and enjoyed CSM Carr’s presence.

Specialist (SPC) Ryan S. Kerrigan, 22, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, said, “Carr was both motivational and down to earth which causes Soldiers to have that same mentality.  A senior leader who shows these attributes makes it easier for Soldiers to open up and ask questions that are important to them.”

CSM Carr concluded his visit with a briefing held in the Suwon Air Base Theater.  Here Carr reiterated to the Soldiers that Air Defense Artillery is here to stay and if you plan on staying in, what can better your chances of beating the draw down.  One point Carr shared, was that in your progression always maintain three points of contact when climbing up the ladder. Two feet and one hand holding on and one hand reaching back to help your battle buddy up the ladder.
        
CSM Carr will attend 6-52 ADA’s Spring Formal at the Osan Air Base Officer Club on 27 April 2012 prior to his departure.