THE EAGLE LIFT LEDGER
Fourth Edition July 2011 1LT Kelly Barton, Executive Editor
Commander’s Corner Hello again from southern Afghanistan. For this month’s issue I’m going to share with you some details from one of our recent combat operations. Of course we don’t usually do this due to Operations Security (OPSEC) considerations, but I felt that for this one we needed to deviate from standing operating procedures for your enjoyment. This operation began with Command Sergeant Major JP Thomas’s desire to have a Task Force party to celebrate the four-month, and one-third mark of our deployment. Based on the unit’s experiences during the last deployment, we determined that to properly celebrate the four-month mark, we would need to include a pig roast as part of the party. Now we don’t have an abundance of pigs wandering around in the desert here, so this was no small task, and would require a full court press from our operations planning cell. Any complex mission has to have a name, and our mission to find a pig for the pig roast was designated OPERATION PORK CHOP. The planners decided to divide this mission into five phases: Phase I—Find a place to buy a pig; Phase II—Find a way to get the pig to Kandahar, Afghanistan; Phase III—Find a way to cook a pig; Phase IV—Cook the pig; and Phase V—eat the pig as part of a big party. Phase I: After some extensive research, CPT Kim Shelton determined that we could buy a pig from an American commissary in Germany. After several phone calls, and a high-risk decision to pass a credit card number over our phone network, phase I was complete; we had a 180lb. pig set aside in a freezer in Germany labeled with ―Task Force Lift‖ on the tag. Phase II: This clearly was the hardest part of the operation…how do you get a 180lb frozen pig moved from Germany to Afghanistan? With more extensive research from our planning cell, we learned that the Air Force sends a jet to Bagram, Afghanistan on a daily basis to pick up Soldiers who need medical treatment in Germany. Since one of our medical evacuation helicopter companies is based out of Germany, we solicited their help in finding someone in Germany to transport the pig from the commissary to the flight line. Upon arrival at the flight line, the aircrew stated that there was no room for cargo on the plane since it was configured for passengers and litters. Our transport team had to unpack the pig, load him on a litter, and then re-pack the dry ice around him. The Air Force requires a manifest for all passengers, so after a little sweet-talking and bribery, ―Private First Class Pork Chop‖ was loaded and ready to go. But this jet’s final destination was Bagram, which is still 250 miles from Kandahar. SGT Sanchez then hitched a ride on a C-130 from Kandahar to Bagram, and was ready to receive PFC Pork Chop when he arrived at 1:00 o’clock in the morning. A couple of hours later, with a lot of explaining a little more bribery, SGT Sanchez and PFC Pork Chop were on their final leg of the journey, and at 5:00 o’clock in the morning on the day of the party, Phase II was complete. Phase III: This phase required the assistance of D Company’s airframe shop. SGT Brooks and his team built one of the finest rotisserie ovens I’ve ever seen. Constructed from the best stainless steel we could get our hands on (thank you, taxpayers!) I am confident that this oven will stand the test of time and will be in use here for years to come. Phase IV: SGT Taman from D Company, and SGT Barroga from the Hawaii National Guard demonstrated their mad cooking skills, passed on from generations of pacific islanders, during the 12 hours it took to get PFC Pork Chop cooked through and through. Phase V: This Phase began around 6:00 PM, after an afternoon of preparing a hangar for the party; setting up tables and chairs; games including horseshoes, cornhole, spades, and dominoes; and most importantly, live music courtesy of Hawaii’s own Reggae band with a little help from D Company’s SPC Mitchell on keyboard. Around 7:00 PM, PFC Pork Chop arrived in the back of a John Deer Gator on a large ―carving board‖ (a scrap piece of plywood). With the help of SSG Newman and E Company’s food service section, over 500 Soldiers and civilians were able to enjoy a great feast. This operation is just one example of how Task Force Lift continues to amaze and impress me on a daily basis. There is no task too great for this team, and I am both proud and fortunate to be a part of it. I hope all of you at home enjoy this fourth edition of The Ledger. Thanks for your continued support. Sincerely, Scott Gerblick Task Force Commander
The CSM’s Foxhole Greetings to all from the CSM’s foxhole, The closing of June means another successful month for the Soldiers and Families of Task Force Eagle Lift. If you have been on the Battalion’s Facebook page lately, I hope you have looked at the articles published about some of the great work being accomplished by our Soldiers. Between the two MEDEVAC companies, C Co 1-52d and C Co 1-214th, we have had three different articles published last month alone. Our medics and crews continue to set the standard for battlefield first aid that has clearly made an impact in both RC-S and RC-SW. I would like to recognize the behind the scenes Soldiers that make the MEDEVAC mission successful day in and day out. Not a single mission would launch without the unwavering support of our E Co Soldiers that refuel our aircraft and generators every day. Regardless of the time of day or night, heat (116 degrees yesterday) or other weather conditions, teams from the Iron Dogs distribution platoon deliver their precious liquid gold better known as JP-8. Thank you, Iron Dogs! Another team that needs to be recognized is the operations cells at the company and the Task Force level. These Soldiers sit like watchdogs scanning several different computer systems while simultaneously listening to radios waiting for the first glimpse or words of a 9-line MEDEVAC call. The operations Soldiers must be accurate and timely with all information in order for the MEDEVAC crews to launch and complete their life saving mission. Our operations Soldiers abilities and quick response have been accredited for saving several Soldier lives in both RC-S and RC-SW. You are truly the heroes behind the scenes. Every Soldier in our Task Force has a job and daily mission that continues to contribute to the overall success of the Task Force Eagle Lift. In the words of a wise man, ―The importance of your job is not measured by your proximity to the objective.‖ I want to say thanks to every Soldier in the Task Force for the hard work and support not only within the Task Force, but around the battlefield! To our ―Home Front Heroes,‖ I want to thank you again for your support, contributions and care packages! You humble me with your generosity and warm our hearts daily with your letters and comments of praise! JP Thomas Task Force CSM
CMD Group Photos
HHC — Fighting Griffins JULY 2011
JULY 2011
New Griffins and New Projects This month the temperatures continued to climb. The weatherman reported the average temperature as 93°F, but it felt much higher. Very little rain fell. However, the April showers brought little vegetation to KAF, mostly in the form of weeds. As I walk around KAF I enjoy looking at the contrast of the vegetation against the desert sand. The landscape outside of KAF consists of deep pigmented grass and makes me miss the countryside that much more.
The accomplishments of the Griffins continue to be impressive. SPC Bedgood, Rosemary and SPC Lopez, Gabriel both from the S-6 shop, competed in the Company’s Soldier of the Month Board. They both did an outstanding job. Unfortunately, there can only be one winner. SPC Bedgood came out on top, winning by a fraction of a point. She continued to the Battalion’s Promotion Board and gave another great performance. When SPC Bedgood is not attending boards, she is the lead COMSEC custodian for BN S6. SPC Bedgood also provides technical and tactical support for automations and communications equipment throughout KAF and various outlining FOB’s.
These Soldiers have taken the extra time to review packets and answer countless questions. We all appreciate their strong work ethic.
goes out to these Soldiers and their no fail attitudes.
Everyday around here is like Christmas thanks to one of our new comers, PFC Plascencia, Jose. He The S-4 shop managed to picks up mail from the KAF mail pull off a surprise birthday for SFC distribution yard, brings it to the brigade mailroom, and hands mail Fucella, Daniel. After a week of tip-toeing and going on imaginary out to the Soldiers of Task Force Thunder. TF Lift’s Soldiers bring the missions, the big day came. On June 2, 2011, at around 5:00 PM mail to the company area. After a long day of waiting, 1SG Ruebush CPT Kinsey, one of our new delivers mail to the all of the shops. members to the team, stormed in I like to think of him as one of the office and demanded for Santa’s helpers. It is definitely a everyone to “pack up and get in treat to see the Soldiers eyes the truck.” It was time for the sparkle when they get a letter from festivities to begin. The first stop back home.
included dinner. After dinner, the team headed towards Cold Mountain. SFC Fucella thought they were headed back to the truck. As the team walked off course, he was told to meet SFC Cord at the board walk. SFC Fucella replied with his now famous words, “Over here?” with a puzzling look. SFC Cord had an Oreo ice-cream cake and a gift awaiting his arrival. SFC Fucella was very modest, but the team knows that they made his day special.
There is officially a new office space on Mustang Ramp. Currently, a generator powers the building. I am quite sure that the arriving unit will be grateful to After the change in the have their own work area. The promotion system, the S-1 shop’s HQ’s platoon efforts also added to workload went into overtime. SPC the success of a warm welcoming Evans, SPC Perrymon, and PV2 party. After integrating to the S-4 Rheid’s devotion to duty and shop, he diligently coordinated concern for others ensured that equipment, supplies, and housing personnel understand and meet for the incoming unit. Good job the new promotion requirements.
I cannot mention home without thinking of the FRG. We finally finished the plastic Easter eggs, but I still run upstairs in the hopes of finding some hidden somewhere. The Soldiers truly appreciate the sacrifices that you make and the time that you give up. I can honestly say that this FRG group has, by far, been one of the most supportive. I cannot say thank you enough.
- SGT Shavonde Chase Ammunition NCOIC Highlights: Weather Soldiers’ Accomplishments Birthday Outing
HHC — Fighting Griffins
Our Soldiers in Pictures
Get your Griffin Gear! Hats, t-shirts, and sweatshirts are available for purchase online until 17 June 2011 at: http://www.donsademon.com/55.html Griffin Gear is priced for you, not for any profit. No individual or organization associated with HHC/7-101 GSAB receives proceeds from any purchase.
A CO Rude Dogs
JULY 2011
VOLUME 1
Friends and Families, Summer has arrived! By the time our Newsletter hits your Inbox, Summer Solstice will have come and gone and daylight hours will be shortening once again. With the temperature nearing 110°F on a daily basis here on Kandahar Airfield, even a couple extra minutes away from the scorching sun are a welcome relief. The amazing Rude Dog resiliency continues despite the oppressive heat, choking dust, and the ever-present eau de Poo Pond. Some interesting trends have presented themselves as the company does battle with perhaps the most significant challenge: time. Crossword puzzles, board games, and even a Rubix Cube have made appearances in the Command Post. With the much-coveted
internet finally arriving to our rooms this month, the average company Soldier is spending a bit more time back in our living quarters as well. Daily complaints about the lack of internet have been replaced by complaints about the lack of bandwidth. I guess we will never be completely happy.
Of course, the ―Gun Club‖ continues to persevere under the leadership of its founder, CW3 Jim Baber. After all the positive feedback from Jim’s hilarious article last month, I am considering letting him write all of the monthly updates… The most recent stats from the Club indicate a collective body weight of 3180 lbs and a collective bench press of 3964 lbs. Benching on average 124.7% of their total body weight, the ―Gun Club‖ can now collectively lift over half of the capability of a UH-60 Blackhawk. We will keep you posted as the numbers continue to increase and perhaps one-day their pectoral muscles provide the same vertical force as our helicopters. Until then, we look forward to staying in touch with mediocre Skype connections and DSN phone calls. We greatly appreciate all that everyone is doing on the home front as well as your continued support. Best Regards, Ben Seipel
A CO Rude Dogs Photos
B 7-101 Varsity JULY 2011
Varsity July update.
VOLUME 1
09 June 11 Marks 120 days Boots On the Ground! To the Friends and Families of VARSITY, I am extremely excited to take Command along with the support of my wife, Sarah. Although we are not strangers to Varsity, rather, we have been more like distant relatives and we look forward to creating our own Varsity history. Our mission set has not changed as we continue with general ground support, night air assaults, and direct support. At a little longer than four months into the deployment we have begun to hit our stride and are operating as efficiently as possible. The true dedication and determination to be the BEST far surpasses the mission load. We simply are the best! Our day general support teams continue to move thousands of pounds of supplies to the surrounding FOBs.
These missions have been essential in bringing food, mail from families and friends, medical supplies, fuel, and mission essential equipment to our fellow troops on the ground in the outlying areas from Kandahar. Our night ground support crews have been working just as hard, as they work directly with the ground troops getting them into and back out of their areas of responsibility. They have worked very closely with the ground forces to ensure they reach their destination. Much has been recovered and destroyed for the good of Afghanistan during these missions. Finally our DSRW crews have been flying like crazy to support their missions. With many diverse missions to be completed by DSRW, they have been performing at a higher level. In much deserving news; on the evening of Saturday 10th of June, a Task Force barbeque was held to celebrate 90
days boots on the ground. CSM Thomas put everything together and CPT Shelton was able to get a full pig; which she had shipped in from Germany! Our Hawaiian counterparts did an awesome job in smoking, preparing, and serving the pig. They also provided everyone with live music! Fun was had by all, and we at Varsity would like to say a big thank you to CPT Shelton, Voyagers B Co, 1-171, CSM Thomas, and of course everyone else for pitching in and making it possible.
Continue on page 2
The Eagle Lift Ledger
Page 10
RE-UP
ON THE GO!!
SGT Benjamin McHugh‟s Reenlistment. 1SG says ―Good job. NOW GET BACK TO WORK!‖
We would also like to announce the recent conformation of CW2 Eric Simpson as our newest Pilot in Command (PC). This has been a long time in coming and is well deserved. Congratulations! Every one of our crews has been completely dedicated to the mission and has been tirelessly putting the success of the mission first. Our crews have set a standard of readiness and willingness to perform the mission, which every one of us can be extremely proud of. I am glad to be back in Bravo Company, my wife Sarah and I are extremely happy to be back in the Varsity family. We look forward to the months ahead and to meeting all of you upon our return to Fort Campbell. Varsity Thanks you for all of your continued support. ~CPT Flanigen, Paul
~1SG Bryan, Joshua
~ Varsity could not meet mission without the Love and Support of all of you back home. Thank You! ~
Varsity Leads the way in any terrain, at any elevation. It‟s all in a day‟s work! CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations are in order for the Davis family.
You know. . .I‟m gonna miss you man!
SSG Richie Davis was recently selected to attend Warrant Officer Candidate School. Good Luck! You will be MISSED.
JULY 2011
C 4-101 Blackwidows VOLUME 1
BLACKWIDOW UPDATES Hello Blackwidow Families, It is with great humility to I take this opportunity to formally introduce myself. My name is CPT Brian Marcotte, and on 7 June I assumed command of C Co 4-101 TF Lift. As you can imagine I am extremely proud and excited for this opportunity. I can tell you that the reputation of the Blackwidows precedes itself. I have been nothing short of impressed with their professionalism, dedication to mission, and mostly their genuine care for their fellow Blackwidows. I would also like to take this opportunity to say goodbye to a cherished member of the Blackwidow team. CPT Lisa Klekowski has been reassigned to HHC Brigade, where she will be working in the S3 Plans department. This is the natural progression for any officer, and I can assure them that they are getting one of the best. She will definitely be an asset to their operations. Good luck to you Lisa and thank you for your service to Blackwidows over the last 12 months. CPT Marcotte Hands the Guidon over to 1SG Barber
C 4-101 Blackwidows As one member leaves us, two new officers join the Blackwidow Family. CPT Tom Cai and 1LT Amit Patel join TF Lift from TF Wings. Having worked with both gentlemen in the past, I can assure you that they are quality guys and great officers and we are lucky to have them in our ranks. I would like to extend my personal email address to all the Blackwidow families. Please feel free to contact me regarding anything that is of your concern brian.marcotte@afghan.swa.army.mil . I look forward to getting to know each of you over the next few months and meeting you in person when we return home. Mate and Kill! Brian J Marcotte CPT, AV
The boys eating some grub
CW2 Howey CPT Tom Cai and 1LT Amit Patel
Blackwidows standing tall in formation at Change of Command Ceremony
D CO Dragons
JULY 2011
Summer is coming!
Friends and Families,
The summer is in full swing here in Kandahar Afghanistan. The temperatures have continued to rise since we first got here. Unfortunately, the temperatures have established new records for most of the Soldiers. Temperatures reached upwards of 47 deg Celsius, or 117 degrees Fahrenheit; resembling the arid environment of Iraq, rather than the typical perception of Afghanistan. All that being said, we are trying as best as possible to beat the heat on a daily basis. Great work continues to be accomplished by Delta Company despite the harsh conditions forced upon us. With the summer feeling in the air, the Task Force held a huge BBQ in our Chinook hangar for all to enjoy. The Battalion Command Sergeant Major was able to organize an enormous amount of food for the event. In addition to the typical Hot Dogs and Hamburgers there were Chicken Kabobs, Steaks, and Roasted Pig. The benefit of having Hawaiian National Guard and some cooking experts in the like of SGT Taman and SGT Brooks, they knew how to expertly prepare the specially flown in 200lbs Pig from Germany. Overall a great event all around marking 4 months in country for the majority of the Soldiers.
Eagle Lift Ledger
Excuse me, may I see your pilot‟s license?
Is that Facebook?
I‟m not even going to ask.
See, even the command changes tires and cleans weapons.
~ Thank you for your continued love and support for our Dragon Soldiers ~
Lines are always long at Blockbuster.
Company Soldier of the Month Board A welcome to the following new arrivals to Delta Company/Afghanistan:
Where did I put that screwdriver?
CPT Cooper as Company’s Executive Officer CW4 Sizelove Company Production Control Officer SPC Stoddard, newest 15U
and Awards
Congratulations to SPC Glaser for winning the Company Soldier of the Month board.
JULY 2011
“Outside the CP” 1LT Marcus Harold CPT Blake Jenkins 1SG Ronnie Simington
CONGRATULATIONS! BIRTHDAYS SPC Masters—6June PFC Rogers—6 June CPT Jenkins—21 June SPC Esqueda—23 June Award—AAM CPL Espinoza SPC Jenkins SERGEANT MAJOR OF THE ARMY COIN SPC Bishop IRON DOG COINS SPC Fox PROMOTIONS SPC Chamberlain SPC Ivy
The “No Worries” Update
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 4
Greetings Friends and Family of Echo Company, This month’s newsletter is a little different. You will notice that the different sections are comprised only of pictures. The decision for more pictures came about in considering the feedback from you and your Soldiers. So, I will just highlight some of the more noteworthy events from the month of June thus far. Our high-speed Headquarters Soldiers, CPL Espinoza and SPC Jenkins, received an AAM each in light of an inspection conducted by a Chief Warrant Officer three, where they received outstanding results and an excellent score. The inspector stated that, ―this is the best orderly room I have seen in my 17years in the Army!‖ As a result of their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance, two Iron Dogs were promoted this month; SPC Chamberlain and SPC Ivy. We congratulate them on a job well done, and encourage their continued success on their way to becoming Non-Commissioned Officers! Our Field Feeding Section, lead by SSG(P) Newman, provided exceptional food service support in conducting two barbeques; one for the Company and one for the entire Task Force (not to mention the countless other Task Force personnel that showed up). Our cooks fed more than 2,000 hungry Soldiers in one month alone, with food that far exceeds the quality of our normal DFACs, ultimately bringing a great morale boost to everyone! Our POL platoon continues to surpass our predecessor’s fuel records as the days fly by, even in the exhausting heat! Furthermore, they have executed four sling-load missions in support of critical tasks to move equipment around the battlefield. Those high-speed sling-load qualified Soldiers include 1LT Harold, SGT Johnson, SPC Appleby, SPC Bucelli, SPC Baker, SPC Chamberlain, SPC Smith, SPC Turley, and PFC Carter. The maintenance platoon continues to provide awesome support to the Task Force every day. Their professional expertise is apparent in that our support company has the lowest number of ―dead-lined‖ equipment. The maintenance Iron Dogs also successfully conducted a complete fuel tank swap on one of the POL platoons fuel trucks, a task that does not happen often and is no easy operation. Furthermore, the Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond Chandler recognized SPC Bishop with a coin for stepping up and taking lead on the fuel tank swap, thus demonstrating his great potential and promising future. Lastly, the Iron Dog family welcomes our newest addition to the team, 2LT Mark Tellez. 2LT Tellez came to us from the Brigade Mayor Cell, where he worked tirelessly as the deputy mayor. In Echo Company, he will serve as the maintenance platoon leader, as 1LT Harold has now fully taken the reins as the Executive Officer. 2LT Tellez’s excellent reputation precedes him and we are excited to have him on our team! We hope you enjoy the pictures! Until next month, NO WORRIES – AIR ASSAULT IRON DOG 6
Headquarters - Prowlers
A picture of the command pictures of the Platoon Leader and Platoon Sergeant
PFC Johnston takes the Iron Dog Iron Stomach Challenge
SPC Esqueda hits up his best GQ stance
Page 2
Distribution Platoon - Punishers Page 3
...and theyâ€&#x;re off!
1LT Eyster flaunts his Penn State flag
SPC Thornton awaits his turn at the PAI, while looking classy
SGT Torres and SPC McCray take a load off
Maintenance Platoon - Pirates Page 4
SPC Bishop and SPC Thurman remove a Gator tire
SGT Hyde helps guide the forks in under the fueler
SPC Masters working hard or hardly working?
SGT Alexander and SGT Bradley supervise their Soldiers
Buccaneers “FOX NEWS”
JULY 2011
Hello Buccaneer families and loved ones. Your Soldiers send their greetings and love in a big ole’ Buccaneer Hug. Things here have been going JULY 2011 exceptionally well for us this last month. Since our last letter we’ve have 5 Soldiers promoted to their next pay grade, one Soldier recognized by the TF Wings Commander for exceptional performance and positive recognition on numerous occasions across the company. Your loved ones continue to drive forward with remarkable performances, fulfilling every task the Army throws at them. They SGT Nichols: For exdo so even with the heat continuing to rise ceptional performance in here in Kandahar and Wolverine, with the Task Force NCO of the month competition. temperatures topping the 120 degree SSG Calhoun: mark. TF Wings CDRs Coin The greatest point about PROMOTIONS: SSG Anderson, Quantrell this month though, is that for some of your Soldiers it SGT Nichols, Thomas will be their last full month in theater. As SPC Barton, Jeremy originally planned we will rotate as many SPC Rodriguez, Alex Soldiers as possible at the half way mark, SPC Warren, Caysey and some who planned to be here a full year will be coming home as early as August. The best thing out of all of this is that we are still able to swap the Soldiers out, an option that no one else is getting, so that the majority of our Soldiers in the company only have to spend 6 months over here.
I implore you to continue to make contact and support your loved ones in any way possible, they relish every opportunity they have to converse with you. Congratulations to all the recent births throughout the Buccaneer family; I hope all of you find the great joy that comes with being a
parent. Thank you again for all your continued support and we look forward to hearing from you soon. Buccaneer 6
Buccaneers “FOX PHOTO’S”
Adopted Buccaneer
ARCTIC AIRMAIL Chronicles of a displaced MEDEVAC Company
Where it’s stupid-hot, and it’s only June…
Greetings and salutations from our home away from home, the vast expanse we know as Afghanistan in the beginning of what is quite possibly the most dreaded season of the year...summer. As the mercury climbs up the thermometers a little more everyday, things haven’t changed much for us here but adapting to the constant pouring of sweat has become part of the daily routine. In the winter it’s freezing, rainy, and windy and in the summer it’s boiling, dry, and windy. What ever happened to the occasional ‘nice day’ where it was right in the middle? About the only time the weather isn’t ridiculously hot is in the middle of the night when the temperatures dip into the mid 80’s from the daytime highs of about Sunrise over Afghanistan: It may be beautiful, but it’s still a giant ball of fire. 110° F. Well, the one thing we know is certain is that it will only get hotter as the days progress. According to the internet, which we all know is based purely on fact, the highest temperature ever recorded in Afghanistan was 128° F. Let’s all keep our fingers crossed that this year isn’t a record-breaker in that category! Now, on to a “cooler” topic of discussion, Dads! From all of us here in the Arctic Dustoff, Happy Father’s “Hey dad, check this out!” Day! June is the one time Motorized Tie Rack of year we can look forward to getting the latest funky-fresh $39.95 necktie, or a motorized tie rack (I’m not kidding, look left) from The Sharper Image store to display said ‘funky-fresh’ ties for the bargain price of only $39.95. It doesn’t matter what you get for your dad, or what your kids get for you if you happen to be a dad, it’s the thought that counts. Of course, with the one special day set aside for all the fathers all over the world, it wouldn’t be complete without thinking back on all the ‘wonderful’ lessons imparted upon us from our dads. Some lessons were good, some were questionable, and some just didn’t make any sense at all and we still don’t understand, even though we’re older. We love FATHER’S DAY you Dad! Keeping gadget inventors employed since the beginning of Fatherhood.
June has shaped up to be another month holding promotions for our most deserving of Soldiers. We don’t have as many to boast about this month but what we are lacking in quantity, we have assuredly made up for with quality. Recently promoted CPL Brett Schlieve has once again been promoted and is now SGT Brett Schlieve. At the current rate of his promotions, it is generally understood that he’ll be running things in all of Afghanistan by the time we leave and we’re all hoping we end up on his good side. All joking aside, the promotion is long overdue and he now wears a rank that better suits his incredible skill level and expertise within our formation. Congratulations Brett! Joining the ranks of the newlypromoted is also one of the newest members of our SGT Brett Schlieve inspecting medical gear before a mission. team, PFC Meade. He arrived in Afghanistan just a short while ago and is adjusting exceptionally well. Of course, a fresh promotion never hurt anybody and, as is the norm within our Dustoff Family, this promotion is also much deserved. Congratulations Meade...keep up the good work! Along with our recent promotions, we have also bestowed honors on two other members of the company. Pilot in Command, CW2 Travis Call and Crewchief Extraordinaire, SSG David Noakes have both been awarded the Combat Action Badge (CAB) for their heroic actions and incredible professionalism while facing a determined enemy during a MEDEVAC mission. It may look like just another shiny piece of metal on the dress uniform, but beThe recently awarded Combat Action Badge hind every badge, ribbon, or combat stripe on a Dustoff Soldier’s uniform, there is a story. These stories usually include dire circumstances, injuries, and insurmountable odds. When the rotor-chop becomes audible however, those odds suddenly shift in favor of the wounded and the MEDEVAC crews do what they do best. Well done gentlemen, wear your Combat Action Badge with pride! On to a less-solemn note, by the time you read this, we will have completed almost half of our deployment. At times the deployment drags on and other times the days seem to escape our memory they move so quickly. Spirits are high, and we (as well as you) hope there are more quick days than slow days.
Flying or chilling, CW3 Aaron Mosdal is always ready!! !
With all this time we’re trying to pass in an attempt to make the deployment move along a little faster, there have been a couple graphic designs we’ve seen come to life. We’ve seen the first order of our Arctic Dustoff patches come in limited numbers but we’re expecting a much larger shipment soon. Along with this, we’ve heard rumor that Tshirts, coffee mugs, mouse pads, and stickers are in the works for future shipments. Prices have not yet been announced but these things are awesome looking and they will be well worth the price! The second design to come to fruition is the “Good Idea Fairy” patch. For those of you who are not familiar with the term, I’m sure you’ve dealt with one of these at some point in your life; let me explain. When there is a problem to be solved, a task to be done, or a decision to be made the ever-faithful “Good Idea Fairy” is cued by the words, “okay, that’s what we’re gonna do” and they swoop in with the telltale statement, “I have an idea” and confuse the entire plan with their visions of grandeur. They never actually help with the solution, their job is to simply confuse the situation, get loads of fairy dust everywhere, and solve nothing. The company patches have arrived. DUSTOFF!!
The estiThe Good Idea Fairy mated date for all Complicating the uncomplicated of these products to be ready for purchase has been set for July 15th pending any hiccups with shipping and handling. More information will follow and as always, your loved one here can always find out more information as well as the date draws nearer. “You can absolutely have candy for breakfast...just go away when the sugar buzz For everyone out there kicks in.” CW3 Josh Parker waiting for us to come home, thank you for all that you’re doing. Whether it be an email, a phone call, a package, or handling everything while we’re away, we could not do what we’re doing were it not for you. Thank You!
“If you think missing me is hard, You should try missing you!” -Anonymous
A father’s parting words of wisdom… “Listen, I’m telling you, the moon is only this big and it IS made of cheese.”
Big Happenings in JUNE: Birthdays June 6th - CW3 Aaron Sawyer June 14th– CW2 Jonathon Robertson June 15th– CW3 Aaron Mosdal June 17th– CW3 Scott Macke June 21st– SFC Robert Thompson June 21st– SPC Randall McDonough
Anniversaries June 1st—Daniel Gazzano & Erin Knight June 2nd—Garrick & Kelli Morgenweck June 4th—Drexel & Amanda Miller June 10th—Adam & Melissa Robinson June 16th—Aaron & Anastasia Halcomb June 18th—Jesse & Valea Rosenfield June 19th—Zackery & Stephanie Martin June 25th—Joel & Zulma Ramos June 30th—Jake & Kerry Lawrence
Until next time…
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!! CW2 Matthew J. Grove DUSTOFF pilot and newsletter-writer-guy My future’s so bright, I gotta wear shades!
B CO 1-171 The Voyagers
JULY 2011
―Aloha” Voyagers Family and Friends, . As I reflect on the past few
months that just flew by, I cannot help but to be humbled by the awesome talent and dedication that each and every one of our Voyagers have been demonstrating and putting forth. It makes me proud to know that our 4 P’s (Prioritize, Proactive, Professional, and Presence) still continue to drive everything that we do and enables us to do more, and perform at a higher level of excellence. By far, the most significant recent event for me was my command visit to the Forward Operating Bases in Regional Command – East. It took almost a week to accomplish but was well worth every effort. I was able to witness first-hand the operations of our flight crews at both Salerno and Shank, and it was every bit as well oiled a machine as I’ve been described to via countless e-mails that the detachment leadership have been sending to me. I also got to climb up on a
―jingle-truck‖ at one of the FARPs where a local national and one of our fuel handlers were transferring fuel. And in between shifts, First Sergeant Burkhart and I were able to hear the stories of ongoing challenges of our Det-1 D Company maintenance soldiers at Bagram. Our Voyagers in Kandahar continue to be engaged and have been demonstrating their Presence and Professionalism, notably during their performance at the AsianPacific American Heritage Month that was held at the ―Fest Tent‖ and during the Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard visit. I am extremely proud of the combined accomplishments of our soldiers and leaders across both Regional Commands thus far during this deployment. I am also very grateful for our dedicated Rear Detachment command and staff for getting us through some tough administrative issues recently.
And last, but certainly not least of all, I am thankful for our strong and supportive Family Readiness Group, as their role in the lives of our soldiers continue to become increasingly more important as we prepare for the journey back home, and the road that continues even after our return. That time could not happen soon enough, and we still have a lot of work ahead. Until then, malama pono and a hui hou!
Voyager 6
CPT Johnny J. Wandasan “Voyager 06” 1SG James E. Burkhart “Voyager 07”
B CO 1-171 The Voyagers
Dustoff News C.Co. 1-214th Aviation RegimenT
Commander’s Corner The heat has arrived in force. As I write this, is it 110 degrees outside and many of us are inside enjoying the air conditioning, complements of the US Army. Of course, we all have to go outside sometime as we maintain aircraft, fly missions and prepare for change of command inventories and the arrival of our replacements. We have a lot happening over the next month. Our incoming commander, Major Scott Menking, will soon arrive with a few supply folks to begin inventories as he prepares to take command of the company after our return. Alexa, Andy, Samantha and I will soon move to the east Coast for our next assignment as lovely Ft. Detrick, MD after a two year command with Charlie Company. Our replacements will also soon arrive, which of course, is just another step closer to a happy reunion with all of our loved ones. Our replacements are all National Guard members from Arizona, New Mexico, and my home state of Minnesota. They are currently at Fort Hood conducting their predeployment training and will begin to cycle into our mission over the next few months. We are just about complete with our R&R program and I want to thank everyone, Soldiers and families alike to making it an issue free R&R program. We still have a ways to go. Please don‟t become complacent when it comes to executing the mission, maintaining Operational Security (no countdown calendars, redeployment dates, or announcements on FaceBook or other open sources), and please don't spread rumors that you hear about our redeployment, reintegration, or leave dates. If you hear something, call the Rear D for confirma-
Inside this J.L. MORRIS
2
PROMOTIONS
3
BIRTHDAYS AND ANNOUNCE-
4
Thoughts from Top C Company has many unsung heroes, but without them we would not be able to carry out our mission as effectively as we do. It takes a lot of effort behind the scenes to keep this place running. At Camp Dwyer and FOB Delaram, all of our Ops personnel, in addition to monitoring the missions, flight tracking, and answering never-ending phone calls, they make daily laundry and mail runs, keeping everyone in fresh skivvies and delivering care packages from home. Sorting all the mail and pushing it out to the FOB‟s is a big responsibility, and one that they do proudly!! They also make three DFAC runs daily, bringing hot chow to all those who cannot leave the flight line. At FOB Edi, there is no laundry service, so off-duty personnel spend their time at the FOB „laundry mat,‟ keeping everyone in semi-clean clothes. At FOB Payne, where everybody is always „on duty,‟ the Ops personnel, with the help of the Navy Role 2, deliver hot chow and laundry, sometimes even taking special meal requests. Without the efforts of these fine personnel, we would not be nearly as successful as we are. Job well done to: SGT Rodriguez, SPC Dillard, SPC Cabe, SGT Miller, SPC Alicea, SPC Depew, SPC Greenier, SPC Cato, SPC Holkins, SGT Seitz, SPC McClain, SPC Miller, SPC Smallwood, and CPL Jackson. We are all very proud of you!
Issue 10
Promotions These words come to you all with great humility as I reflect upon my promotion to CW4 and the career path that has brought me here. Many of you reading this journal may not know me, as I came to C Company on TCS (Temporary Change of Station) Orders for this deployment. Yes, I volunteered to deploy with this fine organization. I wish I could say this choice was made without some selfish intent, but that would not be true. You see at this point in my career it was time to deploy once again. My family wanted to stay in Germany another year, and I yearned to work once again as a “DUSTOFF” Pilot before moving onto the world of a Staff Officer. I started my career in the Army on 31 October 1996 as an Airborne Intelligence Analyst that would be assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with the 18 th Airborne Corps. In 1999 I was accepted to the Warrant Officer Corps and began flight training. My first assignment as an aviator was to the 159th Medical Evacuation Company (Air Ambulance) based out of Wiesbaden Army Airfield. From this point on all of the great moments in my career happened as a “DUSTOFF” Pilot. I would progress to Readiness Level 1 in Nigeria, Africa; conducted Ship to Shore Evacuation to the USNS Comfort during Operation Iraqi Freedom I; performed my first High Altitude Rescue Hoist Mission in RC-East Afghanistan in 2006; and finally was promoted to CW4 by MAJ Patrick Zenk while serving in Helmand, Afghanistan, with C Company 1-214th. This is truly the climax of a rewarding career and I feel honored and thankful to share it with this company. You see this company truly makes me proud to be “DUSTOFF”. Every day I witness the nobility and hard work that has made this unit successful in saving the lives of countless Marines, women, children and insurgents. Our personnel operate with thirty people less than the unit that will replace them; they have risen above the challenges of an accelerated deployment date, phased deployment, austere living conditions, and geographical separation from the higher command which would normally support them daily. All of this is testament to the sacrifices made every day by the Soldiers here, and to our family back home who supports us without question so that we may continue performing our wartime task. On my promotion day I thank you all for letting me serve with you, I thank my wife Sylvana for giving me the strength to persevere, I thank the Soldiers for all their hard work every day, and I thank God for keeping us all safe in the execution of our vital mission. -Scott Forbes
In mid May we had the opportunity to promote the Lieutenants Neutkens. During the posting to orders it was found out by all in attendance that they had dates of rank of 15 March and 1 April. Leave it to Lieutenants to not realize they were promoted. Congratulations to you both! -SFC Farrell CPTs Eric and Amanda Neutkens
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May 2011
Dustoff News
Birthdays and Announcements
To the husband of my dreams. Two kids, 1 dog, and 2 moves. What an eventful 3 years. And many more to come!! Happy Anniversary. LOVE
To My Best Friend, I’m lucky to have found you and I know I don’t deserve you. You make me want to be a better man in everything that I do. I couldn’t ask for a more caring and compassionate partner to spend my life with. I love you and I’ll be home soon.
Happy 5th Birthday Andy. I love and miss you!!
Abbey, See you soon, Salad Fingers!
Gracias por este 21 aniversario; Sin ti no soy nada eres la major TE AMA PAPI.
Miss you. Love you. I’ll see you soon. War Eagle!
AshleyMake sure to take the girls on a nice Memorial Day Weekend trip from Dad! I love you and can’t wait to see you three soon!
C 1/214 would like to extend birthday wishes to the following: 5/02 - SPC William Greenier
5/14 - CPL Victor Pearson
5/04 - CW2 Ty White
5/23 - CPL John Jackson
5/07 - CW2 Neil Stewart
5/23 - CPT Justin Goldman
5/07 - CW4 Scott Forbes
“Special thanks to Marietta Zimmerman, Scott Forbes, Raaya Lock, Drew Steffensmeier, Joe Rogers, and J.L. Morris for all your help and contributions to this month’s Newsletter.”
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Brahmans Photos