The Guardian - June 2012 by Jim Wagner

the

GUARDIAN The official magazine of Multinational Battle Group East

Volume XV Issue 6 June 2012

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside GUARDIAN the

The Guardian is produced for personnel of Multinational Battle Group - East, and is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense.

KFOR Removes Rudare Roadblock Page 7 & 8

Contents of the publication are not necessarily the official views of the United Nations, U.S. government, the Department of the Army, Headquarters & Headquarters Company, 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, or MNBG E.

Operation Kindergarten Cop Page 10

Commanding Officer Col. Jeffrey J. Liethen

MPs Hone Active Shooter Response Page 11 & 12

Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley J. Shields Public Affairs Officer Capt. Joy Staab 172nd Public Affairs Detachment Editor/Layout & Design Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner

Embassy Staff Learns CLS from TF MED Page 16

Broadcast Journalists Staff Sgt. Jason Alvarez Spc. Nathan Rivard Print Journalist Spc. Joshua Barnett

Memorial Day at Bondsteel Page 19

National Guard Marathon Page 20

About the Cover A MNBG E Soldier patrols a road in Rudare, Kosovo, during a roadblock removal operation June 1, 2012. See more photos and story on Pages 7 & 8. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt.1st Class Jim Wagner)

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From the Commander

MNBG E Stepped Up to Challenge at S Rudare

ast month I challenged everyone to go out and make a difference here in Kosovo and I’m very proud to say that all of you have done just that.

Our tactical operation to remove the bridge roadblock in the town of South Rudare on June 1 was a huge success, and is a perfect example of what we can accomplish as a collective Battle Group.

In the words of (German army) Maj. Gen. Erhard Drews, Kosovo Force (KFOR) commander, “….. it [S. Rudare] will be recorded as one of the most successful freedom of movement operations in recent KFOR history.”

As you know, this mission was extremely complex, requiring detailed planning and coordination, in-depth reconnaissance, the utmost in secrecy to achieve the element of surprise, precise timing in order to seize key terrain, and the artistic synchronization of cavalry, infantry, aviation, armor, engineer, and military police assets. The fact that this operation involved units from eight different nations made it even more difficult.

Yet, we all came together as an unstoppable force to be reckoned with, and made a significant difference in improving the lives of Kosovo citizens. Where once was a heavily-fortified roadblock restricting day-to-day travel, now lies an open, unfettered corridor connecting north to south, providing freedom

of movement for all.

The entire Battle Group should feel extremely proud of this great accomplishment, and let it be known that nearly every individual Soldier in our formation contributed to our success. Whether your involvement was large or small, in the forefront or periphery, Col. Jeffrey J. Liethen on the objective or in MNBG E Commander the rear - the S. Rudare mission could not have been accomplished without a cohesive team effort. At great risk of leaving someone deserving without mention, allow me to recollect the herculean efforts of the Battle Group machine that contributed to this historic feat of decisive military action.

Task Force HQs: Most certainly the central processing unit, or “brain box” of our Battle Group machine was TF HQ’s, which led the up-front planning effort and provided critical enablers for mission execution. For example, the S2 Section did an extraordinary job of intelligence preparation of the

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commentary continued on next Page Col. Jeffrey Liethen, MNBG E commander, left, talks to members of 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, at one of the remote camps in northern Kosovo recently, praising them for their efforts in the June 1, 2012, roadblock removal operation in Rudare, Kosovo. The commander, who holds monthly "Town Hall" meetings - an open forum open to anyone in the battle group - at Camp Bondsteel, also addressed questions from the Soldiers during his visit. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner)

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commentary from previous Page battlefield, working closely with KFOR’s Austrian reconnaissance company in order to analyze terrain and predict the actions of our competitors. The S3 Section played a key role in vetting plans, producing orders, training and arraying forces, and tracking/reporting the battle.

Task Force Maneuver: Machines produce power, and our Battle Group produced overwhelming power at the S. Rudare bridge roadblock in the form of our elite, highly-disciplined combat and combat support units. Our U.S. cavalry troop served as the tip of the spear, quickly penetrating competitor territory with Humvees, crowd/riot control formations, and a platoon-sized air assault to seize key terrain and immediately establish a security cordon. Our German mechanized infantry company established critical blocking positions with their armored personnel carriers, and took on the brunt of violence perpetrated by an angry rock-throwing mob. In a determined but restrained fashion, our Deutch brothers deterred the attack with tear gas and rubber bullets, turning the mob away.

Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Cherney, MNBG E JOC battle noncommissioned officer, left, fields calls during the Rudare roadblock removal operations. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua Barnett

In addition to metering adequate “fuel” (food/ water/diesel) for the mission, the S4 Section was able to pull off a just-in-time aerial resupply of ammunition to the troops on the objective. Of course, nearly every modern machine has electronic components, and our TF HQ’s is no different. Our S6 Section brought five different means of reliable computer and radio communications capability to bear during this mission, which were instrumental to its success.

Our Public Affairs Section was in the fray as well, deploying a combat correspodent crew right up to the skirmish line to permanently record our victory.

I would be remiss in not mentioning the TF HQ’s “behind-the-scenes” enablers ... our machine’s lubrication and cooling systems if you will. The S1, Inspector General, Equal Opportunity, Chaplain, and JAG Sections did yeoman’s work in taking care of our Soldiers’ problems. They helped reduce the friction of unresolved personal affairs, and dissipated the damaging “heat” of mental worry. Our enabler’s valuable contributions allowed our Soldiers to maintain a sharp focus, without distraction, on completing the difficult tasks at hand.

recognition as well, enabling the enablers by consistently demonstrating their sincere dedication to running the important day-to-day business of unit administration and providing life support. Their efforts alone allowed the TF HQs staff to stay focused on supporting this extremely complex mission.

In the case of our S. Rudare operation, said Soldier focus had an immeasurable positive impact on mission success. Our Headquarters Company deserves

Then, without provocation, the mob escalated the violence with automatic weapons fire, causing our gallant German company to respond with more than 1,400 rounds of small arms suppressive fire. Luckily, only two of our own received minor gunshot wounds during the battle, and unfortunately, five of our competitors lost blood as well.

Simultaneously with our Battle Group’s maneuver force’s actions to secure the objective, our U.S. explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) unit painstakingly inspected the bridge roadblock obstacle for booby traps.

Once the bridge was cleared, the KFOR’s Tactical Reserve Maneuver Battalion (KTM) deployed Portuguese and Hungarian infantry companies to bolster the outer security cordon and establish countersniper positions on the surrounding high ground. Additionally, the KFOR’s Swiss engineer detachment deployed heavy construction equipment to begin dismantling the roadblock.

At the same time, the KFOR’s German military police detachment deployed their ominous and intimidating Leopard II engineer tank to clear other minor obstacles scattered about the objective. Although not integral to our Battle Group, one should make no mistake in realizing that the KTM Battalion, Swiss engineer detachment, and Deutch military police detachment were very important characters in the story of our resounding success. No machines can run efficiently without com-

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commentary from previous Page petent operators, and the Battle Group’s premier combat operators on the S. Rudare objective were the members of our U.S. Forward Command Post (FCP). They served as the mission’s grand maestro, skillfully and adeptly directing the combat orchestra of complex and perfectly timed movements of our military forces.

position on the objective. When our German infantrymen were wounded in battle, they quickly and professionally executed a textbook evacuation back to our Camp Bondsteel hospital, well within the prescribed “Golden Hour”.

TF Aviation’s Blackhawk pilots and crew served as our maneuver force’s eyes above the battlefield as well, flying continuous low-level orbits above the objective and communicating invaluable, real-time tactical information to our FCP. Of course, reliable aviation support for the S. Rudare operation would not have been possible if it were not for the tireless efforts of our aircraft maintenance technicians. These great “wrench warriors” toiled unselfishly in preparing our aircraft during the days and nights just prior to June 1, and served as an important cog in the Battle Group machine.

Not only did they manage the fight with great expertise, they were magnificent in reporting accurate, timely battlefield information to the Battle Group’s Joint Operations Center (JOC). All of these impressive, expertlysynchronized actions by the Battle Group and other KFOR units were paramount to the success of the S. Rudare operation, and lend great credence to the U.S. forces provided security and vehicle control missions to KFOR motto, “Together support roadblock removal efforts. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. as One”. 1st Class Jim Wagner)

A platoon from our distinguished Hellas (Greek) mechanized infantry company deployed their armored personnel carriers to establish a foreboding observation post and prevent re-establishment of the roadblock. Soon thereafter our elite Moroccan light infantry company deployed a platoon to the objective to replace our Hellas brothers, and now serve as steadfast observers, demonstrating KFOR’s unwavering resolve at S. Rudare yet today.

Task Force Aviation: A telltale sign of a high performance machine is the head-turning roar it emits when passing by. Such is the sound of the Battle Group’s Blackhawk helicopters when flying overhead. For all involved in the S. Rudare mission, it goes without saying that our U.S aviation battalion’s participation was instrumental to our success. They helped set the stage for establishing the initial security cordon with an intimidating four-ship air assault, placing our cavalry platoon into perfect

Our medical professionals and support staff made it a point to keep their skills well honed by completing routine refresher training as well as by treating uncountable Soldiers for a plethora of different ailments. These great efforts preserved and maintained our combat strength, thereby providing the maximum number of Soldiers possible to participate in the S. Rudare mission. TF Medical not only assisted in the preparations for battle, they became deeply involved in its aftermath by rendering expert treatment to our wounded warriors.

In closing, I must reiterate that I am very, very proud of the Battle Group’s team effort in completing this unbelievable feat of well planned, expertly orchestrated, decisive combat action. You are the best of the best, and your accomplishments at S. Rudare will be recorded in history as a textbook example of military operational perfection.

Although we must not become complacent, I encourage you to ride this victorious bow wave through the final stretch of our deployment, and to continue “Leading from the Edge!”

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After the objective was secure, the fighting diminished, and the bridge roadblock well on its way towards removal, more Battle Group forces were brought into play. Soldiers from the U.S. military police platoon were air-lifted onto the objective to take control of and help process several unruly competitors that were apprehended at the onset of the operation.

Task Force Medical: Every machine must be maintained, and no matter how well this is done, they are prone to break when run continuously. The Soldiers that comprise the Battle Group machine are no different, and that is where TF Medical came into play.

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CSM Corner Preparing for Re-Deployment Home

As we start our seventh month of deployment, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to look forward to some of the challenges that are ahead of each of us: reintegration with our Families, Employers and Friends. Those of us who have been through this process know it can present challenges.

Life has continued at home, children have grown, spouses or significant others have managed the household, and employers have adapted or trained others to accomplish our responsibilities. We have changed as well, and our experiences and separation have changed who we are. Challenges we may face are a sense of isolation from peers, estrangement from family and friends, and loss of common purpose.

Often the greatest challenge to families is the return of the deployed soldier. When the returning Soldier reclaims prior responsibilities, the spouse may be left feeling that his or her efforts during deployment are invalidated. Months of adaptation and coping are upended, giving rise to such questions

as: who pays the bill, takes out the trash, and mows the lawn? Who disciplines the children and how?

We will be introduced to many support services during our demobilization and reintegration process.

Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it takes courage to ask for help and it takes leadership to help a fellow Soldier get help.

Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley J. Shields MNBG E CSM

Communication is a key ingredient in a relationship, be it children, spouse, significant other, family or friends. Knowing when to ask for help and getting that help is a sign of leadership. In most situations, the challenges we had when we left, be it family or employer will likely still be there for us to deal with. We have grown and gained new skill sets during our time away. How we use them, and our understanding of what is ahead will help determine our success.

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ver the next several months, my Guardian comments will focus in part on our redeployment and reintegration. The time is quickly approaching as we prepare to make our transition.

Juneteenth Event (19 June) Hosted by TF MED Freedom March & Reception 0900 STFC 2-mile march (IPFU) POC: 1LT Sherry Anderson x3156

flickr.com/photos/MNBG-E facebook.com/KFOR.MNBG.East

youtube.com/MNBGEast

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Soldiers from the Portuguese-led KFOR Tactical Maneuver Battalion (KTM), left, clear one lane for traffic approximately halfway through roadblock removal operations. At right, the cleared bridge south of Rudare.

KFOR Removes Rudare Roadblock story & photos by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner

UDARE, Kosovo - Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG E) Soldiers successfully led a roadblock removal operation on the outskirts of the small northern Kosovo town, June 1, 2012, to improve freedom of movement for Kosovo residents. The roadway, the main artery between the southern portion of Rudare and Mitrovica, was one of nine roadblocks that Kosovo Force (KFOR) officials had determined prevented freedom of movement in the region.

In addition to providing a safe and secure environment, KFOR is charged to ensure freedom of movement throughout Kosovo as part of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.

A MNBG E Soldier keeps watch at a security checkpoint during roadblock removal operations.

“The operation was a total success, from the conception and planning of the operation to the execution on the ground by the Soldiers in this battle group,” said U.S. Army Col. Jeffrey Liethen, MNBG E commander from the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. “I couldn’t be prouder of the men and women who performed their duties so admirably.” The operation was conducted in the early morning hours, while most residents of the town were leaving for work.

Soldiers from the German and U.S. contingents quickly established vehicle control points and a security perimeter so the Portuguese-led KFOR Tactical Maneuver Battalion (KTM) could bring in the KFOR multinational soldiers man a vehicle control point heavy equipment required to remove the substantial (VCP) during roadblock removal operations. concrete, gravel and debris barrier. story continued on next Page

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tial miscues were quickly erased as the operation launched. Detailed planning and close coordination among all participants, he said, ensured the successful removal of the roadblock.

Soldiers from other MNBG E multinational contingents arrived in the subsequent hours to provide follow-on security to the area.

U.S. forces on the ground were comprised primarily of Soldiers from the Georgia Army National Guard’s 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment.

The unit’s headquarters element, located at MNBG E’s forward command post (FCP) at Camp Novo Selo, Kosovo, developed the course of action used in the operation after lessons learned from other operations, current intelligence estimates and manning requirements.

Based on the lessons learned from other operations, mission planners adapted their requirements to encompass key terrain - namely a bridge connecting Rudare and another city, Zvecan, as well as a road intersection north of the bridge - that needed to be controlled in order to ensure this mission’s success.

Further complicating the operation was the complexity involved in getting more than eight different nations to execute the mission plan in a coordinated manner from several camps located throughout Kosovo.

According to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Joseph Lynch, FCP commander from the 3/108th CAV, fears over poten-

“Without the close coordination and cooperation of all nations involved, we could not have accomplished what we did,” Lynch said. “We are extremely pleased that all the multinational units in this operation performed their missions with professionalism and excellence. Furthermore, I continue to be impressed by the level of dedication demonstrated by all the contributing nations.”

Two KFOR soldiers were injured by gunfire during the operation after unidentified individuals in a violent crowd of protestors opened fire on security forces. MNBG E forces responded in self-defense, using tear gas, rubber bullets and live ammunition.

KFOR officials strongly condemned the violence started by individuals who started the escalation of violence in the first place, stating in a release NATO forces would respond proportionally and “continue to do so firmly, prudently and impartially, in full compliance with our mandate. "That is what our troops have been doing for the last 12 years at considerable risk to their own safety," the statement continued. "We urge all parties to avoid unilateral moves, inflammatory statements or violent acts.”

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An aerial view of the bridge spanning Rudare and Zvecan during roadblock removal operations, with KFOR security forces arrayed at top. Inset - several views from the ground on the eastern side of the bridge. June 2012

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Boomtown

at Camp Nothing Hill

story & photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett

t a strategic location near the city of Leposavic in northern Kosovo, Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG E) maintains a small but well-trained fighting force. The international soldiers make their home at a small outpost called Camp Nothing Hill.

Due to its proximity to potential hotspots, Camp Nothing Hill recently saw a temporary but rapid rise in population. Until recently, the contingent (COY) of U.S. Soldiers had only one or two platoons stationed there. Now all of Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, Georgia Army National Guard, calls the camp home, boosting manpower by more than 50 percent.

“Everybody up here at once is a tighter fit than it normally is, no doubt about it,” said 1st Lt. Stephen Kump, Troop C executive officer. “But the facilities up here at Camp Nothing Hill are solid; it’s made for something like this.”

The U.S. COY is staged to respond to any event that may happen north of the Ibar river, Kump noted.

“With the elections coming up, there is an increased chance that we will have multiple casualties, from riots or aggression, so we want to make sure we are prepared to take care of multiple casualties,” said Spc. Drew Plummer, a medic stationed there. “It will absolutely increase our ability to take care of more patients if the need arises.”

Plummer added that the expanded area is more

Soldiers stationed at Camp Nothing Hill set up camoflauge netting outside of their medical center, May 5, 2012. The covered area will be used as a triage area in the event of a significant number of casualties.

likely to be used to treat heat injuries than combat wounds.

Also, a store and restaurant has just opened up at Camp Nothing Hill. The restaurant offers fresh pizzas, pastas and sandwiches as well as coffee and ice cream. The store has a variety of snacks, toiletries, electronics and tobacco.

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In addition to more crowded quarters, other changes are being made to accommodate the larger force. Soldiers erected a camouflaged shade area outside the camp’s medical facility to better cope with any potential mass-casualty incidents.

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Operation Kindergarten Cop

MNBG E Shows Children How KFOR Can Help, Demonstrate Tools of Trade story & photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett

ozens of local kindergarteners from the Thimi Mitko School in Gjilan recently visited Camp Bondsteel. During their visit, the children learned about some of the various functions performed by the U.S. military in Kosovo.

Operation Kindergarten Cop, which was organized by the Joint Law Enforcement Liaison Team, included presentations from military police, explosive ordnance disposal, fire department, and task forces medical and aviation.

Each organization gave a presenta- Members of Task Force Aviation demonstrate a rescue hoist. tion, followed by hands-on activities for the children. Among the activities, the children were able to “We wanted to come here to visit Bondsteel to tell operate robots, don firefighter suits, sit in a Blackthe kids how KFOR helped us, and we wanted to let hawk helicopter, and handcuff a “bad guy.” them know that if they need any help, they can call on KFOR,” said Luma Mustafa, an assistant teacher at “We were just helping out, displaying some of our Thimi Mitko School. EOD team gear and talked a little bit about UXO (unexploded ordnance) safety, which is a huge problem in Kosovo right now,” said Sgt. William Farwell, an explosive ordnance disposal specialist with the 387th EOD Company of the Massachusetts Army National Guard.

In addition to fun and inspiration, Farwell said that the children also received a valuable lesson. “I think they had a good time, they always like to play with the robots and we definitely got the message across to them about UXO,” he said.

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The experience definitely had an impact on the children. “When I grow up, I wanted to be a soccer player,” said 6-year-old Eris Halili. “But from what I saw today, now I would like to be a helicopter pilot.”

U.S. Army Sgt. Kevin Heenan, explosive ordnance specialist, demonstrates the abilities of an EOD robot. A MNBG E Soldier gets handcuffed by a kindergartner during a law enforcement demonstration.

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MPs hone active shooter response story & photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett

ilitary police Soldiers from Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG E) recently received training in how to respond to an active shooter situation at Camp Bondsteel part of a Department of Defense-wide program implemented in the wake of the2009 shooting incident at Fort Hood, Texas.

“Based off the Fort Hood shooting, the Department of Defense and Department of the Army have mandated that all MP forces throughout [the military] conduct active shooter training,” said Maj. David Mazi, Area Support Team (AST) Balkans director of security, plans & operations. “There is a specific training support package provided, and we have provided aspects of that the last three days to various sections of the MPs.” The soldiers were given classroom and hands-on training before moving on to the practical portion, which included exercises at the room-clearing training facility here as well as scenarios in actual buildings around the post.

The goal of the “shoot house” is to give the soldiers

Maj. David Mazi, director of security, plans & operations for AST Balkans, right, provides instruction during the exercise.

a better idea of how an actual situation might unfold.

“It just reinforced the fact that it’s very chaotic in there,” Sgt. Alexander Henninger, a military policeman, said of the training. “Sometimes you have to - as quickly as you can - take a deep breath and remain under control, calm and in control of the situation and think everything through.”

Mazi said that the training is important for MPs, because many of them don’t have extensive civilian law enforcement experience, and even if they did, the realities of a deployed military environment bring additional difficulties you won’t necessarily find in the civilian world. As a result, the training conducted at Camp Bondsteel needed to be modified to account for a deployed environment.

“All the active shooter training directives that come out of DoD and DA are specific to a police response to a situation where you have a large quantity of unarmed civilians, whether it’s a school house or a shopping center,” said Mazi. “Obviously we don’t have either of those here at Camp Bondsteel, and we don’t have any unarmed civilians here except for AST personnel and our local nationals and DA civilians. Everyone, all the troop-contributing nations and U.S. troops here are armed 24/7 and they have their ammunition with them.”

This presents a unique challenge for MPs responding to an active shooter situation. They are tasked with identifying and taking down the threat, but may arrive on scene where a bystander has already engaged the suspect. Spc. Anastasia Fedorova, left, and Sgt. Adam Kiepert clear a building during an active shooter response training exercise at Camp Bondsteel, May 16, 2012.

“Everyone has the right to defend themselves, we want you to defend yourself,” said Mazi. “But my biggest fear is the MPs coming around the corner and all they see is the bystander who is putting down the

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continued from previous Page suspect, but the only person they see doing the shooting is the bystander, and of course they’re going to open fire on that bystander.”

If someone finds themselves in a situation where they need to act to defend themselves and others from an active shooter, Mazi says, “the moment that suspect is down, you yourself need to get on the ground as well and don’t move. The MPs are en route and they need to clear the facility, they need to clear everyone involved,” he said. “Engage your target, put the target down, and then you yourself get on the ground and don’t move until the MPs have cleared you.” A major point in the training focused on being mindful of this reality, Mazi said.

“That’s what this training is all about, is to give them an idea of the mindset that they need to present themselves in, some of the tactics, and prepare them as best we can with the resources we have for this type of circumstance. “The first time we did a run through, with someone actually kicking the wall to simulate gunfire, we got in there and as soon as we saw the first doors everything kind of fell apart a little bit. It stresses the importance that you fall back on your training and rely on what you’ve been taught and you continue to practice.”

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Henninger said continual training is necessary.

Spc. Adam Kiepert, front, and Sgt. Nicholas Kusko practice clearing a room during an active shooter response training exercise.

Spcs. Kenesha Rogers and Matthew Grenier, shown in background, Liaison Monitoring Team (LMT) members, attend the School Day celebration at a Naim Frasheri School in their area of responsibility, May 25, 2012. The event was held to commemorate the 166th anniversary of Albanaian poet Naim Frasheri, for whom the school is named. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua Barnett)

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Standing Ready During Elections story & photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett

hile Kosovo Serbs cast their ballots in the Serbian presidential elections recently, U.S. Army National Guard soldiers deployed as part of Kosovo Force 15 (KFOR) were positioned nearby, trained and ready to act if tensions flared. Fortunately, intervention proved unnecessary.

Regardless of whether or not the calm was due to the tremendous preparation of the international members of KFOR’s Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG E), it was certainly welcome.

“Over the past weekend, KFOR operations in north Kosovo included increased situational awareness patrols and vehicle checkpoint operations,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Lynch, Multinational Battle Group East forward command post chief and commander of 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, Georgia Army National Guard. “The increase in visibility of KFOR throughout the north region reinforced KFOR’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment. KFOR’s increased presence was intended to deter individuals and/or groups from attempting to disrupt the democratic election process.”

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continued from previous Page While KFOR’s show of strength could have been viewed as intimidating, the local population said it made them feel safer, according to 1st Lt. Stephen Kump, Troop C executive officer for the 3/108 CAV.

“We’ve read in the media, both Albanian and Serb, that the presence of KFOR up here is reassuring,: Kump said “It’s a deterrent for violence, that’s really what we’re up here to do.” U.S. soldiers have been effective at that mission, but are also prepared if the situation escalates and deterrence isn’t enough.

U.S. Army soldiers stationed at Camp Nothing Hill, Kosovo set up a vehicle control point, May 4, 2012. The activities were to show an increased level of vigilance in advance of Serbian elections, with the goal of preventing any unrest.

“We’ve been training a lot,” said Sgt. David Gladden, an infantryman with Troop C. “If a mission came down, we’re capable of handling the mission.”

The unit is trained, equipped and proficient in crowd and riot control operations, he explained. The successful and uneventful elections were a positive indicator of the current stability in the region.

“It’s a good feeling to know that we’re making direct efforts to maintain a safe and secure environment here in Kosovo, and maintain peace so these people can live normal lives instead of lives of conflict,” said Kump.

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That increased readiness will continue through the coming weeks as Kosovo readies itself for a possible Serbian election runoff presidential vote.

U.S. Army soldiers with the 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, inspect a truck at a vehicle control point, May 4, 2012.

From the IG

Take Responsibility to Save Costs

Our mission is not to get people in trouble, but to improve the overall system. One way that we accomplish this mission is by offering assistance to those who bring issues to our attention or request our help in fixing a problem. And, anyone can access the Inspector General including Soldiers, family members, civilians, and contractors.

We can certainly learn from Soldiers and the issues they indentify, but often Soldiers will not bring issues to our attention because they do not want to “rock the boat”. In some instances, family members will bring issues forward that Soldiers should, but, for many reasons, the Soldier does not. It is difficult

for the IG to identify and fix issues throughout the unit without the help of all those vested in the unit.

When it comes to our units’ efficiency, economy, morale, training, and readiness, it does not matter who brings an issue to the IG as long as the issue is brought forward. What is important is Maj. Daniel Hanson that the issue comes to IG Officer resolution. The key is that we all are striving to perpetually improve this unit to better accomplish our mission. That includes supporting our Soldiers and families.

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hat do you know about the Inspector General or IG? What does an Inspector General do? Who can seek help from an IG? The IG’s mission is to inquire into and report upon the discipline, efficiency, economy, morale, training, and readiness of the unit.

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Students and faculty from the Whitehead School of Diplomacy and International Relations at Seton Hall University pose with members of Task Force Aviation during their visit to Camp Bondsteel on May 27, 2012. John K. Menzies, dean of the Whitehead School and former U.S. chief of mission to Kosovo and former U.S. ambassador to Bosnia-Herzegovina, said the U.S. role is Kosovo is “the best example I know of post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua Barnett)

Safety Roundup Summertime Safety Thoughts

Many of you will participate in MWR sporting events like softball, volleyball or soccer. Others will get out and do some hiking or cycling. More yet will enjoy the weather by firing up the grill and cooking for yourself and friends.

Each of these activities comes with its own risks. If you are participating in sports be sure to stretch properly and play to your level of ability. If you’re out hiking or cycling take care around wildlife you may encounter.

You also need to be aware of the location you are in or route that you will take and watch for unexpected dangers like loose and falling rocks or potholes. Before you head out, make sure someone knows where you will be and when you expect to get back. Don’t go out alone. When you fire up the grill make sure you keep away from structures and never

leave your grill unattended.

When you are out on the roads always look around and know where other vehicles are around you. We have had several accidents where other drivers acted in unexpected ways or came from an unexpected direction. Always follow the posted speed limit and drive defensively.

Maj. Peter Kitzhaber Safety Officer

Remember to always be observant of wildlife you may encounter in Kosovo. There are three varieties of poisonous snakes and insects that carry diseases. Don’t try to identify if a snake is poisonous, just keep back. Ticks can carry Lyme’s disease, so if you find an embedded tick have it looked at and removed by a medic. Keep these tips in mind and you will have a safe and fun summer.

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pring in Kosovo will soon come to a close and usher in more sunshine and outdoor activities. Summer brings many opportunities for Soldiers to get out and enjoy the weather. Along with the myriad of activities available to Soldiers are the risks associated with them. In addition to the activities warm weather will bring out more animal life in Kosovo.

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Embassy Staff Learns CLS from TF MED

story & photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett

.S. Army Soldiers deployed to Kosovo as part of Multinational Battle Group East recently trained 28 staff members from American Embassies across the Balkans region in the Army’s Combat Lifesaver, or CLS, program. The soldiers, from the U.S. Army Reserve’s 3274th Army Hospital at Fort Bragg, N.C., are serving as part of Task Force Medical at Camp Bondsteel.

“The embassy requested Task Force Med to teach a CLS course for embassy employees and for the security staff, so we put together a 40-hour course for non-medical personnel to be able to treat emergencies in case of any military or civilian catastrophe scenario,” said Capt. Andrea Nolan, a critical care nurse with the 3274th.

The Combat Lifesaver program is designed to enable non-medical personnel to act as a bridge between basic first aid and regular medical care. This is in response to the fact that in a battle or other emergency situation, conditions will limit the ability of trained medical personnel to provide immediate care. Personnel trained under the program can provide lifesaving measures and help prepare casualties for evacuation, according to the course manual. The students came from the U.S. Embassies in Macedonia, Albania, Croatia, Sarajevo, Bosnia, Serbia, and Kosovo. They were primarily local nationals working as security guards and nurses, said Sgt. Robert Farrell, a medic with the 3274th.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Pristina, Kosovo, Michael J. Murphy said, “I hope that none of us are ever in a situation where we have to use any of the things we learned today, but we live in a kind of world where unfortunately the possibilities of that are greater than they once were.

“I want to say thank you to the team for agreeing to

U.S. Army Sgt. Robert Farrell, a medic with the Army Reserve’s 3274th Army Hospital deployed with Kosovo Force's Task Force Medical evaluates students during the combat lifesaver (CLS) course.

do this. It’s a wonderful example of the kind of partnership that I think ought to exist between all of our branches of government,” he said. “You bring some skills and expertise to the table as American military that we just don’t have.” The training objective goes beyond the 28 students certified at the course. “I’m hoping they’ll take it back and teach it to others,” said Nolan. “They’ve got hundreds of staff members at each embassy that they could definitely provide with this kind of educational information.”

The students took that message to heart. “When I go back to my post, I’m going to teach the rest of the guards what I learned, just in case,” said student Rada Vukcevic, a nurse at the embassy in Podgorica, Montenegro.

Murphy stressed the point that the newly certified students need to be ready to put their skills to use at any time, and that the application goes beyond just combat injuries. “It need not be something as sinister as a sniper outside a mission or an attack on an embassy … it could be an earthquake that could affect all of our countries and we need to support one another,” he said.

A U.S. Embassy employee applies a pressure bandage during the combat lifesaver (CLS) course.

“It was really successful training, we had a lot of fun, and it always good to teach students that are really eager to learn and really enjoy the classes,” said Nolan.

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In addition to providing important training to the staffers, it also served as an opportunity for international cooperation, and for people from countries that don’t always agree to come together for a common purpose, said Murphy.

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Legal Corner Not a U.S. citizen Yet? You Could Be! deployed may be eligible for expedited naturalization under Section 319 (b) of the INA if they meet the following requirements: •

Military Members and Veterans

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Under Sections 328 and 329 of the INA, members and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have served honorably may be eligible for naturalization due to their military service. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces currently serving in Kosovo could immediately apply for naturalization through Section 329 of the INA if they meet the following requirements: • •

• • •

• •

Have served honorably in the United States military for at least one day since Sept. 11, 2001.

•

Have been lawfully admitted as a Permanent Resident of the U.S. at any time after enlistment or induction, OR have been physically present in the United States or certain territories at the time of enlistment or induction (regardless of whether the applicant was admitted as a permanent resident). Have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics).

Have been a person of good moral character. (Things considered that may demonstrate a lack of good moral character include: crimes against persons with intent to harm, violating any controlled substance law of the U.S., any state or any foreign country, illegal gambling, or lying to gain immigration benefits.) Be willing to support and defend the United States and our Constitution.

While deployed overseas, you may request to be interviewed and naturalized abroad at the nearest U.S. Embassy.

Spouses of U.S. citizen Servicemembers who are

Establish that his or her U.S. citizen spouse is deployed abroad as a Servicemember

Staff Sgt. Amy Sydow Chief Legal NCO

Be a permanent resident of the United States at the time of interview.

Declare in good faith upon naturalization an intent to live in the U.S. immediately upon the Servicemember’s termination of service abroad

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Be able to read, write, and speak basic English

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Have been, and continue to be, a person of good moral character, who is willing to support and defend the United States and our Constitution.

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Be able to read, write, and speak basic English.

Expedited Naturalization for Spouses

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Be age 18 or older

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Have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics)

There are also provisions in the INA allowing overseas naturalization for spouses and children of active U.S. military members, who are stationed outside the U.S. See the USCIS website for details.

Military members who are interested in becoming U.S. citizens should view the USCIS manual, M-599, Naturalization Information for Military Personnel. You may apply by submitting Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) to the Nebraska Service Center at PO Box 87426, Lincoln, NE 68501-7426. Military members must also submit Form N-426 (Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service) with their application. For further information and study materials, check out http://www.uscis.gov and follow the link on bottom of the page “Citizenship for Military Members & Dependents.”

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If a Servicemember is willing to serve in the United States military, why shouldn’t he or she have the opportunity to become a U.S. Citizen? Non-citizen Servicemembers are not unnoticed or unappreciated. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents may be eligible for free and expedited citizenship.

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Chaplain’s Corner

Eliminate the Fear Factor

I have heard people say, “A little fear is good for you.” I disagree. Fear is not good at all. It is a trap used by the enemy to keep you from operating in the will of God. The opposite of fear is faith, and Hebrews 11:6 says, “...without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is...”

ing through your eyes (what you watch) and your ears (what you listen to). Eventually those things will enter your mouth (what you say), and once you begin to speak negative words, those things will ultimately become a part of your life. Be sure to put God’s Word into your heart to increase your faith.

Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God, but fear comes by hearing the words of Satan. Negative words can get into your heart by enter-

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” – Romans 10:10

Satan knows that you must have faith to believe that God’s promises will come to pass. If he can get you to doubt God’s promises, he will accomplish his goal of taking you out of the will of God, thereby keeping you from receiving your blessing.

Chap. (Capt.) Andy Shepherd MNBG E Chaplain

Fear is a spiritual connector and so is faith. Faith will connect you with the Word of God. Don’t allow fear to connect you to negative circumstances. Instead, use your faith to release the blessings of God into your life.

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Are you afraid of heights? Or do you become hysterical at the mere sight of spiders? Perhaps you live in constant fear that you will never get ahead in life. Whether you are afraid of heights, spiders or failure, let’s be clear on one thing; it is not good to have any amount of fear in your life.

(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua Barnett) Wisconsin Army National Guard Soldiers deployed to Camp Bondsteel with the 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade video-conference with students from Waunakee Intermediate School, in Waunakee, Wisconsin, May 31, 2012. The session was set up to allow soldiers to share their experi(Courtesy photo) ences in Kosovo and to thank the children for care packages the school sent.

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Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 108th Cavalry Regiment, render a salute during the Memorial Day ceremony. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Alexander Henninger)

Bondsteel Celebrates Memorial Day

ultinational Battle Group East Soldiers assigned to Camp Bondsteel celebrated Memorial Day weekend with a ceremony, sports and activities to honor the sacrifices made by Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Staff Sgt. Jason Alvarez, Multinational Battle Group East public affairs office broadcast journalist, left, throws a horseshoe during the Memorial Day Weekend tournament, May 27, 2012. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joshua Barnett)

Later in the day, Soldiers changed into civilian attire to enjoy unit barbecues and partcipate in social activities. The day ended with a concert held by country singer Jessica Erin.

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The battle group started Memorial Day with a ceremony honoring fallen heroes at the parade field.

ABOVE: Maj. Aaron Woods, Joint Visitor Bureau chief, preprares food Memorial Day. LEFT: Country singer Jessica Erin performs for MNBG E Soldiers. (U.S. Army photos by Spc. Joshua Barnett)

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Camp Bondsteel Marathon

story & photos by Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner

unners gathered in the early morning hours May 13 to participate in an annual fitness ritual - the Army National Guard Marathon and Half-Marathon.

The 35th annual run, held in Lincoln, Neb., this year, was mirrored by Multinational Battle Group East (MNBG E) Soldiers, whose race results are entered into the worldwide National Guard race results. Races are generally conducted in remote deployment locations, such as Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.

MNBG E fielded 85 runners this year - 24 runners in the 26.2-mile marathon and 61 in the 13.1-mile half-marathon course.

Runners start the marathon/half-marathon in the early hours at the South Town Fitness Center.

U.S. Army Capt. Sean Murphy, MNBG E deputy personnel officer, U.S. Army Sgt. Timothy Benjamin, MNBG E network and signal operations NCO, keeps track of runners and their makes it to the top of one of the many hills making up the marathon course. standings. And the Winners Are... Marathon

Half-Marathon

Men's 1st - Ryan Young, 3:28:44 2nd - James Cole, 3:33:00 3rd - Charles Austin, 3:34:45

Men's 1st - Joshua Nuss, 1:33:06 2nd - Paul Viator, 1:37:03 3rd - Moses Guzman, 1:39:19

Women's 1st - Amanda Waldusky, 4:01:33 2nd - Amberlie Silva, 4:26:04 3rd - Sherie Loeb-Cantlon, 4:35:33

Women's 1st - Rachel Simeth, 1:51:16 2nd - Kate Furtak, 1:53:44 3rd - Brittany Seeger, 2:00:47

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PAO is looking for photos of your experiences in Kosovo for possible inclusion in The Guardian. Email your submissions to SFC Jim Wagner in Global or call x5204 along with the name & rank of the photographer and caption.

A Multinatioal Battle Group East (MNBG E) Soldier stands with guidon before half-mast flags prior to Camp Bondsteel's Memorial Day ceremony on the parade field. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Alexander Henninger)

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