VOLUME 7
WEDNESDAY 1 AUGUST 2012
BLACK DRAGONS BULLETIN BN Commander and Senior Advisor Words BLACK DRAGON Family: I want to begin this letter by thanking everyone for coming to the Town Hall Meeting we hosted on July 11th. It was a good event made great by your attendance and participation. Events like these, coupled with our FRG programs, and our Social Media presence (Facebook and Twitter) are the best ways to keep our BLACK DRAGON Families and Friends informed and connected to the Battalion. The Battalion has been very busy since the Town Hall meeting. We have spent several weeks in the motor pool preparing and loading our equipment for movement to Fort Drum, New York and Fort Polk, Louisiana. The loading and movement of equipment to pick up points is one of the most important aspect of a successful training event, but one that is sometimes overlooked. I want to thank and recognize all the Battery and Company Unit Movement Officers and/or Movement NCOs and Hazardous Material Inspectors. Their attention to detail and the hard work of our Soldiers ensured our Battalion load out was seamless despite having a complicated mission with equipment going to multiple destinations. Alpha Battery has deployed en masse to Fort Drum, New York to conduct M777 Howitzer Training in partnership with 2-15 Field Artillery. So far select personnel have completed intensive maintenance training and the whole battery is now training on how to emplace and fire the howitzer as a Cannon Crew member or as a Fire Direction Specialist. The Leaders and Soldiers of Alpha Battery continue to excel at their training and even though they have been busy, they are still finding time to have some fun with unit football games, BBQs, and other activities. We know that they will do well in the upcoming live fire certification and we look forward to them coming back around August 16. Currently I, and most of the Battalion Staff, am deployed to Fort Polk Louisiana at the Joint Readiness Training Center where we are undergoing Security Forces Assistance Training in preparation for our JRTC training rotation and our follow on mission. The training days are full, but productive, as they have Afghans that role play Afghan Army and Police personnel during hands on situational exercises. The rest of the Battalion will begin to move to JRTC on July 30 and August 1. Once we have all arrived we will begin our JRTC Rotation. During the rotation the Battalion will shoot over 1000 Artillery Rounds, embed with an Afghan Division Level Staff, and train Afghan Artillerymen – in a role playing training environment. According to the training schedule, we should all return from JRTC no later than 25 August. This gives everyone time to get home and enjoy the Labor Day Week-end. Once we return from Labor Day, the Battalion and the Brigade will once again load out in preparation for movement to Afghanistan. Even though we have not received our official deploying orders as of yet, we have to send our containers in advance because of the length of time it takes to move equipment to Afghanistan and the need for it to be there in anticipation of our arrival. We will continue to conduct some training during September as well, and while most of the training will be during their duty day, some training will have to occur at night. At this time we do not anticipate any overnight training.
We also continue to plan some family events for the month of September and October, so please stay in contact with your FRGs as they will send out more information. We are working hard to make these events convenient for all Soldiers and their families. We are also planning leave periods for the Battalion. Right now any Soldier not at Fort Polk or Fort Drum, that is not key and essential to the Battalion rear detachment, can submit leave paper work to their Battery or Company Leadership. For those Soldiers scheduled to deploy, block leave will be from October 5 – October 21. Please work with your Soldier’s chain of command to schedule specific leave during these dates. For those Soldiers not deploying, and those that did not get a chance to take leave in August or September, there will be an opportunity to take leave after the Battalion leaves for the deployment. I know that these late leave dates occur after children have returned to school and are less than optimal, but many schools (local and out of state) will allow special exceptions for missed school attendance for children whose parent is in the military and scheduled to deploy. As the parent of an up and coming kindergartener, I do understand the challenges that these leave dates pose. I would like to close something that we should all be proud of in the Battalion. Major Mike Kielpinski, the Battalion executive officer, was selected for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel. This is a great achievement for Mike and his family, and we cannot think of a better Army team for selection to Lieutenant Colonel. Job well done! We will keep everyone posted once we know more about when he will be promoted. As always, thank you for supporting your Soldier. The Command Team of 5-82FA realizes that the Battalion could not be as successful without your support and understanding. Stay in touch with your FRGs and follow us on our Social Media sites to keep up with the latest information and opportunities. Will and Jessy Johnson FRG Facebook Group www.facebook.com/#!/ groups/582black.dragons/ Battalion Facebook Page www.facebook.com/#!/pages/5thBattalion-82nd-Field-Artillery-Regiment-BlackDragons/288593261191191 Twitter Account: @5th82fa
Inside this issue: BN CSM
2
Chaplain’s Corner
3
HHB Hardcore
4
ALPHA Apaches
5
BRAVO Bulldogs
6
GOLF Ghost riders
7
Battalion News
8
Current Events
9-16
BLACK DRAGONS BULLETIN BN CSM Words
The Soldiers and Families of the 5-82 Field Artillery Black Dragons would like to welcome CSM and Mrs. Teresa Maynard back to the family!!
Black Dragons, Families and friends, I’m truly honored and humbled to serve the Soldiers of the “Black Dragon” Battalion and be part of the team! Since, this will be the first of my many newsletters; I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. I’m married to the former Teresa Torres of Wichita Falls, Texas and we have three wonderful boys: David (25), Timothy (23), and Trevor (21). We also have two grandsons and one granddaughter! I have been very fortunate to be a part of the Army for about 27 years now. I have a son that served the Army for six years and a son that is currently serving in the Air Force! I say that to say this: I’m a grounded leader that knows the sacrifices that you all make on a daily basis. Thank you for those sacrifices and contributions to this great organization! Although I have only been the Command Sergeant Major (CSM) for a short time, I recognize the accomplishments of the Battalion over the last several months. Believe me, your accomplishments have not went unnoticed. Since I have arrived to the Battalion; I have been thoroughly impressed and continue to be impressed each and every day with the teamwork and camaraderie that you all have demonstrated. Again, thank you for all the hard work and dedication! As the CSM, I will place great emphasis on the readiness of our most valuable resource… our Soldiers and their Families. As the CSM, I will do my very best to protect and build upon the fine legacy of professional excellence and a tradition of mission accomplishment that the Soldiers and families within the “Black Dragon” Battalion have built. As the CSM, I’m confident that the Soldiers of the “Black Dragon” Battalion will be the “most ready” when the Nation is the “least ready.” I owe that to the Soldiers and their families! Again, I look forward to working and meeting each and every one of you and being part of the “Black Dragon” Battalion! “BLACK DRAGON 9”
BLACK DRAGONS BULLETIN CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Chaplain's Corner—FRG Newsletter “Before You Get Married” – Part 2 of 4 (The Role of Religion) Last month I began a 4-part series on the BIG FOUR of a Successful Marriage – MONEY, RELIGION, KIDS & INLAWS as the four main areas to discuss before you get married. This month we continue the series with the second area you must discuss before marriage -- the role Religion will play in your marriage. The first question in this area is “What will be the source of Authority & Guidance in your home?” People often follow a variety of human “authorities” like TV psychiatrists, neighbors, society, friends, and family, or just give in to their personal desires when seeking the proper way to conduct their home life. While some of these sources may provide good advice at times, many of our marital problems are the result of following these examples. We need a better standard – a source of higher wisdom. Fortunately we have an infallible source of wisdom in God. When “worldly” wisdom is in conflict with this “higher” source, the best course is to go with the godly wisdom. Genesis 2:18-24 – God created marriage and He knows the best way to conduct it. Joshua 1:8 – Our efforts are successful when we study and stick to God’s plan. Psalm 127:1 – Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it. Another question to ask before you marry is “will you share a common faith & religion?” One of the most important purposes of marriage is companionship…the sharing of common goals and interests, including religion. No matter the faith or religion you choose to follow, failure to share a religion and be “like-minded” in worship is a major source of conflict in marriage. Consider things like: Will you pray together before meals? Will you attend church together? Do you agree on the concept of financial giving? What types of activities will you enjoy, and will you agree to do them together? Do you agree on the major social and moral topics in society? What moral principles and standards will you teach and exemplify for your children? You and your fiancé or spouse need to thoroughly discuss all such concerns, and come to agreement early in the relationship if your marriage is to be successful and happy. Every couple enters marriage with plans for happiness together. If you start with agreement on spiritual topics and have a solid understanding of what you each believe, you will have taken a major step toward achieving marital success.
CH (CPT) Robert D. Patterson Battalion Chaplain 5-82 FA, 4BCT, 1st Cavalry Division RELIGIOUS SUPPORT / RELIGIOUS EDUCATION VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL – 6 thru 10 Aug, 1800-2030, VBS for the whole family, Spirit of FT Hood Chapel (SFHC) RAMADAN – Starts the evening of 19 Jul thru 17 Aug, Ohana Place (19th Street Chapel) CENTER SHOT MINISTRIES starts up @ Comanche Chapel, 23 July (MON): POC CH Godding HOW TO DATE YOUR SPOUSE – With Gary and Barb Rosberg - 19-20 Aug (SFHC) GIVE AWAY BAZAAR @ Comanche Chapel, 25 Aug (SAT) CELEBRATION FOR STRONG MARRIAGES – 5-12 Sep, (SFHC) READ and SURVEY THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR – This will be a read through the Bible in a Year and a survey course on each book. SPIRITUAL FITNESS CENTER Marriage 101 – 1st Wednesday each month, 0900 thru 1530 (Soldiers get $50.00 off Marriage License for attending and a barrage of good marriage information) Children In The Middle – 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month, 0900 to 1300 (Mandated by the courts for those going through divorce who have children) 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player– Tuesdays at 1145 to 1245. Lunch provided. Join us each Tuesday at the Spiritual Fitness Center for a light lunch and time of discovery. Discover what a great team player looks like and the tools to become one yourself. 8 week course. Bibliotherapy Book Reading Club – Starting in September - the last Tuesday of each month, 1330, Spiritual Fitness Center. Quarterly Prayer Summit – Music, group and individual prayer time and prayer walk. Bill Shelnutt, DRE, Spiritual Fitness Center, 254-287-9101; (254) 287-9574
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HHB NEWSLETTER Written By: CPT Scott Hastings
Volume 7 July Birthdays: SGT Talarico, SPC Bocker, PFC Hepp
The month of July was super busy for the Hardcore Battery. We started the month by working very efficiently to begin our preparations for JRTC and Fort Drum training operations in August. The Battery has spent countless hours finalizing equipment inspections, vehicle inspections, and sealing the connexes. Earlier this month, we said farewell to CSM Coler, as he has taken a new assignment in Fort Dix. Hardcore Battery gave a warm welcome to our incoming CSM Maynard and his family during the Change of Responsibility Ceremony. We had four Hardcore Soldiers as the Color Guard, under the direction of MSG Bailey, and SSG Garcia as the Master of Ceremonies. The last few weeks have been a true testament to teamwork. We sealed the connexes, sent our ADVON parties to JRTC and Fort Drum. Our Battery was successful in completing our mission this month. HARDCORE!
July Babies: SPC Damon-Baby Boy SGT Sanders-Baby Girl; SGT Owokoya – Baby Girl
PV2 Cazrares, SPC Banks, PFC Beasley, and SPC Strong were the Color Guard for the CoR Ceremony
SFC Brewster and other Hardcore families at the Battalion Town Hall meeting
SFC Huff and SPC Victoria participate in the Battalion Enlisted Run
1LT Cheatwood participates in water survival training during PT
FRG Newsletter for HHB, 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery
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Apache Newsletter Volume 7
Written By: CPT Martin Piecuch The month of July has been a historic one for the Soldiers of Apache Battery. Currently the battery is deployed to Fort Drum, NY where they are receiving training on the M777 howitzer as they prepare for future operations overseas. July started with the welcoming of over 30 new Soldiers to the unit as the battery re-task orged to an M777 unit. As opposed to having two platoons with four paladins each, the battery now has three platoons of two M777s.
Apache Battery started off its busy month with the Change of Responsibility between 1SG Hemenway and 1SG Mendez.
One key addition to the unit was the welcoming of 1SG Mendez after his change of responsibility with 1SG Hemenway. The battery thanks 1SG Hemenway for his eight months of service as he moves on to become the Battalion S2 NCOIC. On July 15th, Alpha Battery deployed its initial wave of Soldiers to Fort Drum for advanced party duties and U6 Training. Led by 1LT Force and SFC Pinkett, the Soldiers did an outstanding job setting the conditions for the main body’s arrival. In addition, all twelve Soldiers successfully passed the U6 training which certifies them as operator level mechanics on the M777.
The Apaches all made it to Fort Drum Safely! A special thanks to all the family members that donated snacks and took the time packing them into goodie bags. The Apaches appreciate it!
On July 24th, Alpha Battery deployed its main body to Fort Drum. 1LT Barr and SSG (P) Flores did a tremendous job serving as flight commander and NCOIC ensuring all 86 Soldiers made it to Fort Drum with no issues. On July 25th, training began and the Soldiers have been at it ever since. As July concludes, the Soldiers stay busy training on the M777. The days are lengthy and the training is intense but the Soldiers know that the skills they learn here will save lives overseas. On August 4th, the Soldiers of Apache Battery will become the first Soldiers in the history of the 1st Cavalry Division to live fire the M777. Shortly after that, they will return to the training areas of Fort Drum and become the fist battery in the history of the 1st Cavalry Division to qualify on the M777. GREAT JOB APACHES!
Apache Soldiers dismount the FMTV and conduct occupation.
Apache Soldiers conduct crew drills on the M777.
Upcoming Events -Aug 1st: -Aug 4th: -Aug 5th: -Aug 6th-9th: -Aug 16th: -Aug 21st:
Alpha Battery wives get together Alpha Battery conducts live fire on M777 91F return to Fort Hood Alpha Battery conducts Table VI Qualification Alpha Battery returns to Fort Hood Alpha Battery FRG Meeting
*All dates are tentative and subject to change
FRG Newsletter for Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery
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Bulldog Newsletter Written By: CPT Troy Merkel
Volume 7
Family and friends of the Bulldog Battery, the month of July has been a very busy one for us. This month saw the Redlegs of Bravo re-task organizing into the 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division ready force, completing and certifying Paladin Table V and Table VI, loading up quadcons and preparing for a Joint Readiness Training rotation at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Bravo Battery also said farewell to Bulldog 6 Ancient, CPT Chad Fitzgerald and his wife Libby and son Caleb. They are moving to Boston, Massachusetts where CPT Fitzgerald will be pursuing a higher education in preparation for his tenure at the United States Military Academy as an instructor. His successor is CPT Troy Merkel and wife Christine. CPT Merkel joins the Bulldogs from 2-7 Cavalry. CPT Merkel officially took command on the 17th of July. Bulldog Battery has been undergoing many significant changes with the addition of many new Soldiers coming from Alpha Battery and many places across the Army. New NCOs and fresh young Soldiers straight out of Advanced Individual Training from Fort Sill, Oklahoma have joined the proud tradition of the red-leg cavalrymen of Bravo Battery and all the current and past Bulldogs would like to welcome them into our brotherhood of arms.
CPT Merkel officially takes command of the Bulldogs
Bulldogs move to the Paladin Assembly Area (PAA) during Tables V and VI while CPT Fitzgerald watches on
Members of 1st Platoon fire for effect (FFE) during Table VI certification
FRG Newsletter for B BTRY, 5th Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery
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GOLF FSC, 5-82 FA
GHOSTRIDER’S NEWSLETTER VOLUME 7
WEDNESDAY 1 AUGUST 2012
Ghostrider 6 Ghostrider 9 Greetings from GhostRider 6. I am constantly thrilled to be a part of the GhostRider Team. This month has been filled with support requirements and ensuring the success of the battalion by performing critical Rear Detachment Operations for the Black Dragon Battalion. This month, one of our GhostRider Soldier’s spouse gave birth to a little GhostRider. SPC Brown and Jessica Metra -Brown welcomed baby Taylynn Alexandria Brown on July 26th, 2012 at 1731 to their and our family. It is always important to understand and embrace those that serve alongside us and share in the joys and discomforts of the living the Army Life. We continue to prep our Soldiers to embrace any mission given.
Greetings, GhostRiders’ family and friends. I am just as thrilled and excited as the commander to be part of a great organization provided all the logistical lift and maintenance requirements for the Black Dragon Battalion. We will display professionalism and continue the traditions and work ethic foundation laid by our previous leadership teams and always continue to move this organization forward and improve. As our folks go forward to JRTC and train at Fort Drum, NY, we will maintain the home front informed and ready allowing our battalion to be successful in what ever mission or task they encounter in training or deployment. Congratulation to the Brown Family on their baby. This is GhostRider 9.
Special points of interest:
Ghostrider 6’s Corner
Ghostrider 9’s Corner
JRTC Rotation
Training Calendar Events for July and August 2012
Company Photos
Training Events:
Members of the GhostRiders prepare for a bike ride to better understand the rules of the road, gain techniques, and stay current on all policies.
Maintenance
Distribution
Headquarters
During the month of July Maintenance Platoon completed services on Battalion Fleet to ensure all equipment traveling to JRTC is fully mission capable for the August 2012 JRTC Rotation as well as deploying maintainers.
Distro Dawgs the hard task of completing rail operations at the Fort Polk Node for the Brigade. They continue to represent the Black Dragon Battalion with their can do attitude. As the most experienced wheeled vehicle, Distro Dawgs did an outstanding job moving equipment to Fort Polk.
Headquarters Platoon welcomed the newest member to the platoon when SPC Brown wife gave birth to their baby girl. The platoon came together and received the growing family. Headquarters Platoon received high marks during their recent Arms Room inspections as they came together on the mission.
Ghostriders will deploy an enhanced platoon comprised of Distro Dawgs and Maintenance Wrench Heads in support of JRTC.
Soldiers on Rear Detachment for the month of August 2012, will continue to train on weapon proficiency, driver’s training, and maintain LBE
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BLACK DRAGONS NEWS Black Dragon family there be no address given for the deployment to Fort Polk; however, there will be a “Red-eye special” which will deliver packages to your Soldier leaving Brigade every three days. If you have something to send to your Soldier, please bring your packages to Battalion Staff Duty. For any questions please call 254-285-6592.
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Week of July 30 Spouse Tip SECO CAN JUMP START YOUR CONTINUED EDUCATION AND PORTABLE CAREER
Military spouses have many opportunities and resources that can help jump start their continued education and portable careers. The first step is awareness. Help us spread the word that Military Spouse Education, Career and Employment support resources are available, easily accessible, and provided at no-cost. Military Spouse Career Center: 1-800-342-9647 Education, Career and Employment Counselors are standing by to provide military spouse education, career and employment information, counseling and planning services. Additional support resources are online at www.MilitaryOneSource.mil (Career & Education Section/Spouse Career Center).
SECO Program: The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program has four pillars for information and support service delivery: 1) Career Exploration 2) Education and Training § MyCAA -- The MyCareer Advancement Accounts program provides up to $4,000 for spouses of active duty members on Title 10 orders who are in pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2 and O1-O2. Spouses must be pursuing an Associate’s degree, license or credential needed for portable career employment. To open an account, please click the "Register" link above. § Additional Sources of Financial Assistance for All Military Spouses -- Provides referrals to Federal Pell Grants and Stafford Loans. 3) Career Readiness 4) Career Connections
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DISTRICT ENROLLMENT CENTER SCHOOL YEAR 2012-2013 Location: Manor Middle School (1700 W.S. Young Drive, Killeen) Phone: (254) 336-1349 or (254) 336-1718 Dates: July 23rd-August 2nd Time: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM Purpose: Enroll new students in grades Pre-K to 12th grade Update address, immunization records Change registration information ELL/Bilingual screening Special Education placement Campus information-school supply lists, standard dress information Required Documents: Immunization records Current proof of residency within KISD (utility bill or lease contract) Birth Certificate (certified copy required for children under 11 years of age) Student’s Social Security Card Report card/records from previous school Drivers License of person enrolling the student Pre-K Eligibility: Military Dependent qualification criteria - Military ID, DEERS form or other reliable documentation is required to show that student is a dependent of a current military member or prior military member who was injured, killed or MIA while on active duty. Simply being a retired military member does NOT meet this Pre-K qualification criteria Income qualification criteria - Proof of Income (from prior month) for all household members
Notes: Additional documentation required for other custodial arrangements
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254-287-3424 Now - August 24 - Super High Adventure Middle School Camp Middle School Camp offers fun and exciting activities for teens during summer vaca-
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Fort Hood Family and MWR Community Services Council (CSC) Meeting August 2012
August 6 - 16 – Adult Swim Lessons
Come learn the life-long skill of swimming Classes are held at the 1CD Pool $50 per swimmer 7 – 7:45 pm 62nd Street & Hell on Wheels Boulevard, Bldg. 2479 For more information, please call the Aquatics Office at 254-287-9430
August 9 - Hood Howdy
Hood Howdy is an information fair and mini job fair, held each February/August and acts as an overall installation orientation; by providing newcomers and the community with an abundance of information about all that “The Great Place” has to offer Offers information on local programs, services, activities, businesses, housing, commissary, medical and emergency services Family and MWR agencies will also be available to provide in depth information regarding their services, such as financial counseling, recreational activities, job search assistance (be sure to bring your resume) and Child, Youth & School Services Hood Howdy is free, Family-friendly, open to all; and full of information, games, door prizes and activities…so, be sure to stop by the Family and MWR Room to enter for a chance to win an iPad2 (16GB + Wi-Fi enabled) Get acquainted with “The Great Place” at Hood Howdy on August 9, from 10 am - 2 pm at Club Hood (Bldg. 5764, 24th Street at Tank Destroyer Boulevard) For more information and/or individuals requiring accommodations for a medical disability, call ACS Relocation Readiness Branch at 254-287-4471 or usarmy.hood.imcom-fmwrc.list.ACS-relo@mail.mil
August 10 - Teen Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) Focus Forum
Fort Hood Army Community Service will host a Teen Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) Focus Forum on August 10, from 9 am - 4 pm at Oveta Culp Hobby Soldier & Family Readiness Center This forum is open to Military teens aged 13-19 years Only 15 teens will be accepted to participate Registration closes on July 31 or once the maximum number of teens have registered For registration and information, contact the Fort Hood AFAP via 254-287-2327 or usarmy.hood.imcom-fmwrc.list.ACSAFAP@mail.mil
August 18 – Hood Hotter Than Hades 5K Run/Walk
Overall male and female winners receive a trophy 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each age class receive a medal On-site registration the day of the race from 7- 8 am or register online at HoodMWR.com Race begins 8 am Abrams Physical Fitness Center, Bldg 23001, 62nd Street and Support Avenue For more information call 254-285-5459
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Continued News August 18 – 2-Person Triple Threat Tournament
Six holes modified alternate shot, six holes best ball, 6 holes scramble 9 am shotgun start 7:30 - 8:45 am onsite registration $15, plus green fees and cart rental (lunch included in price) Mulligans $5 additional per person (optional) For details and registration, call 254-287-4130 or stop in at the golf course The Courses of Clear Creek, Bldg. 52381, located on Battalion Avenue west of Clear Creek Road
August 24 - Back to School Bash
Jump back into the school spirit with Fort Hood Youth and School Age Services’ Annual Back to School Bash The Caribbean themed event will take place Friday August 24, from 3 to 8 pm at the recently opened Montague Youth Center (Bldg. 70020 Clement Drive) The event is free/open to all and geared toward 6th-12th graders - youth are encouraged to bring their friends along The youth will have the benefit of experiencing the Caribbean culture through activities such as henna tattoos, traditional Samoan dancers, stilt walkers, high jumper, interactive Zumba Calypso demonstration, cake walk, inflatable’s, dunking booth, foam pit, samples of Caribbean foods, fun, contests, prizes and more! Parents are invited to attend an education workshop, focused on many of the various issues teen are currently dealing with A resource fair will be set up at the event to give Families input about the many Family and MWR services and programs available to them on the installation Youth Sports & Fitness will have a health and wellness booth to provide healthy snack options ideas and tips to stay active and healthy throughout the school year
School Age Care Summer Spectrum will enhance the Caribbean Theme with entertainment by Steel drum musicians and Limbo demonstrations
For more information, call 254-553-7662
August 31 - September 1 - 2012 US Army Soldier Show
Don’t miss the 2012 US Army Soldier Show featuring song, dance and performances from some of the Army’s most talented Soldiers
Three show times: August 31 at 7pm, September 1 at 2 pm and 7pm All shows will be at Abrams Physical Fitness Center, Bldg 23001, 62 nd Street and Support Avenue For more information see HoodMWR.com
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Military Families and veterans are eligible Visit www.eknowledge.com/FHS to obtain your FREE software
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Continued News Army Family Covenant “Keeping the Promise” - Benefits to Families of Deployed Soldiers
Free annual Child, Youth and School Services registrations (CYSS)
Expanded hourly care slots and hours, 6 am - 6 pm, at Chaffee Child Development Center (CYSS)
Coping with Separation Training offers insight into various techniques to dealing with deployment issues and feelings of isolation (ACS)
Deployment Budgeting teaches participants how to adjust their budget/spending plan, taking into account changes in income and expenses during deployment (ACS)
Reunion/Reintegration Training provides Soldiers and Families information to deal with changes, which occur during deployment in marital and child relationships (ACS)
Parent to Parent Helping Hands Support Group and Exceptional Family Member Support Group provides parents an opportunity to share common experiences and support for other Families with special needs Family members, deployments prove to be particularly challenging for stay behind parents (ACS)
Family Readiness Group Focus Forum offers both experienced and new leaders and volunteers the opportunity to meet and discuss issues, training, changes, and a wide variety of topics concerning the management of Family Readiness Groups (ACS)
Pre-Deployment Briefings provide insight for the Soldier and Family member on the importance of planning and communication prior to deployment
A checklist is provided that offers suggestions of areas to be addressed by Families preparing for the Soldier's departure (ACS)
Family Life Skills Workshop assists participants in recognizing the effects and causes of stress and introduces them to a wide array of stress management techniques, conducted 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month (ACS)
Rear Detachment Operations Course-this four-day course offers 45 blocks of instruction to prepare the rear detachment staff for the challenges that arise during deployment (ACS)
NETWORK Meets weekly and offers employment leads, job search training workshops, and career coaching to Family members, special emphasis is placed on support to Families of deployed Soldiers (ACS)
Discount of 20 percent for full-day and part- day child care (CYSS) Fun Friday Evening and Super Saturday Getaways (CYSS) Sixteen free hours of child care per child, per month during deployment (CYSS) Emergency child care in the Child Development Home or certified FCC Provider, for Families under extreme stress or for a spouse/parent hospitalization when there is not local child care support (CYSS) $300 in free SKIES Unlimited Academy instructional classes, for up to eight weeks per class, per child/youth (CYSS) $100 in free sports team registrations, per child/youth (CYSS) Free, on-site care for monthly FRG meetings(CYSS) Free, on-site care during pre-deployment and reunion briefings (CYSS) Military Family Life Consultant program offers problem-solving counseling due to deployments (ACS) Care Team Training provides tools to volunteers who are willing to provide short term care and support to Families of deceased or critically injured Soldiers or Family members - Volunteers offer in-home assistance with meals, telephone and gift logs, cards and condolences, and emotional support (ACS)
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