Griffon Summer 2012

THE

“Victory Starts Here”

Published in the interest of the 108th Training Command • Vol 36.2 Summer 2012

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 3

From the Commanding General...

By Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall Commanding General 108th Training Command (IET)

I was given the opportunity to preside at the commissioning ceremony at my alma mater, John Carroll University this year at the end of May. As I prepare for what I will tell these young soon-to-be second lieutenants, my mind goes back to when I was commissioned 35 years ago. It was an exciting time.

I had been branched Armor, been assigned to the Federal Republic of Germany and been given a date to attend the Armor Officer Basic Course at Ft. Knox. It was also the aftermath of the Vietnam War. The United States Army was drawing down both its budget as well as end-strength, as it has since the beginning of our Republic when the Continental Army dissolved within two months of the signing of a preliminary peace. The United States Army faced many challenges in the aftermath of Vietnam, from the quality of the soldiers at the time to having sufficient funding to train appropriately. My first years as an Armor Officer were my leadership laboratory, where I experimented and refined my leadership style in a myriad of situations that tested my metal and my values.

What can I share with these young officers? They find themselves entering a profession that, after ten years of being a nation at war against terrorism, once again is drawing down. This time from 569 thousand soldiers to 490 thousand soldiers in the Regular Army, a reduction of 18 percent over the next 3 to 5 years. Commands such as JFCOM have already cased their colours and USAEUR is in the process of significantly reducing its footprint in Europe. There will be major belt tightening with budgets, equipment and operating dollars.

Austere times? Maybe. Challenging times? Okay…sure.

I guess I will share with them what Gen. Ray Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff of the Army shared with his two star commanders at a Se-

nior Leaders Forum at the end of this March. Gen. Odierno told this group to never forget our military has become the best trained Army in the history of this Republic. 10 years at war has produced some of the finest and best-trained soldiers in the world. Our challenge and our focus must continue to be to provide trained, equipped and ready forces to win the next fight or contingency. Count on the fact that there will be a next fight.

These young officers will help plan for and develop the force for 2020, a smaller and more capable Army.

They will be part of high quality all volunteer Army; Soldiers, DA Civilians and families, both active and reserve. Leader development is absolutely paramount to these new 2nd lieutenants to meet the

complexities of constantly evolving technological world. Gen. Odierno also reiterated the importance of fostering a continued commitment to the Army as a noble and selfless calling, founded on a bedrock of trust. These newly minted 2nd lieutenants will reinvigorate the standards, discipline and ethos that has become the hallmark of this profession. I guess that I will share with them that this is a great time to be part of one of the noblest professions on the face of this earth.

Whether they go active duty or reserve, whether they stay for their commitment or go on and make a career, the years that they spend in uniform will be, without a doubt the most memorable time of their lives.

I would like all of us to refo-

cus and recommit ourselves with the same passion as we possessed when we initially raised our right hand and took an oath of service to this Republic, as this new class of young officers will do, whether NCO or officer. We must remain ready to mobilize and deploy when asked. The challenge is to maintain this under a new reality. We must stay fit; physically, mentally, emotionally. We have found that with the drawdown of the Active Component,TRADOC has tasked us to provide Drill Sergeants and Leader Trainers with fairly short notice.

Our stock remains strong, but only if we can deliver. There will be other missions, other taskings. We are the best-trained Army in recent history. Let us remain that way.

Victory starts here!

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4 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Summer 2012

Contents From the Commanding General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 From the Command Sergeant Major . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Drill Sergeant School Conducts First Consolidated Graduation . . . . . . . . . . 6 TF Griffon Completed Yellow Ribbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Task Force Griffon Deploys to Afghanistan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Best Iroquois Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Iroquois Warrior Brigade Changes Command to a New Chief. . . . . . . . 12 Bataan Memorial Death March: Soldiers Honoring Soldiers . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Task Force Scorpion Redeploys! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 A Transition of Command for the 1st Brigade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Fort Benning Armed Forces Reserve Center Officially Opens . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Top Soldiers Compete for Best Warrior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Army Chaplain Makes ‘Magical Memories’ As a Marathon Runner . . . . . . . 26 Timberwolves Help Prepare Participants for Sandhurst Competition . . . 28 Gray Named to the Commandant’s List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 2nd Brigade, 95th Changes Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Two Brothers to Copmpete in Best Ranger Competition at Ft. Benning . . 30 Women’s History Month Observance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 From the 95th Division Commander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 From the 104th Division Commander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 2X Citizen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Historic Setting for a New Page in History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Work Safe, Play Safe This Summer! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Chaplains Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Soldier’s Gold Mine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Do You Want to be a Unit Public Affairs Representative? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Support For 108th Members Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

108th Training Command (IET) • Charlotte, NC • Vol. 36, No. 2 Summer 2012 108th Training Command (IET) Commanding General............................................................................................ Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall Command Sgt. Maj. ....................................................................... Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. Derezza Deputy Commanding General.................................................................................. Brig. Gen. Allan Elliot Chief of Staff.......................................................................................................................... Col. Fred Woerner Chief Executive Officer............................................................................................................... Mr. Larry Cruz 108th Training Command Public Affairs (IET) Public Affairs Officer........................................................................................................... Lt. Col. Chris Black Email: christopher.black@usar.army.mil Public Affairs Specialist ....................................................................... Ms. Deborah Williams (Deployed) Email: deborah.propst.williams@us.army.mil Griffon Editor............................................................................................................... Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith Email: andrea.smith11@usar.army.mil Public Affairs Journalist.................................................................................. Spc. Richmond Barkemeyer 95th Training Division (IET) Commander.............................................................................................................. Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty Command Sgt. Maj. ......................................................................... Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Minton Public Affairs Officer....................................................................................................... Cpt. Jennifer Cotten Email: jennifer.k.cotten@usar.army.mil Public Affairs NCOIC...........................................................................................Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire Email: paul.mcguire1@usar.army.mil 98th Training Division (IET) Commanding General................................................................................ Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards Command Sgt. Maj............................................................................... Command Sgt. Maj. Grady Blue Jr. Public Affairs Officer................................................................................................. Maj. Edward Kuppinger Email: edward.kuppinger@us.army.mil Public Affairs NCOIC................................................................................................ Staff Sgt. Richard Harris Email: richard.t.harris@us.army.mil

Pictured Above: Drill Sgt of the Year, Staff Sgt. Grant Dodge navigates through the obstacle course. Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Front Cover: Soldiers from units throughout the 95th Training Division (IET) compete during the annual Best Warrior Competition, Mar. 8-10 at Fort Sill, Okla. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire, 95th Training Division, (IET) Public Affairs

104th Training Division (LT) Commanding General................................................................................................ Brig. Gen. Kurt Hardin Command Sgt. Maj. ...................................................................... Command Sgt. Maj. Juan M. Loera Jr. Public Affairs Officer........................................................................................................... Maj. Alex Johnson Email: alex.johnson@usar.army.mil Public Affairs NCOIC...........................................................................................Sgt. 1st Class Lisa Litchfield Email: lisa.litchfield@usar.army.mil The Griffon is published four times a year and is an authorized publication for members of the Army. Contents of The Griffon are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the 108th Training Command (IET). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including supplements and inserts, does not in any way constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army or Knight Communications, Inc. of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, use or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Griffon is an unofficial publication authorized by AR360-1. Editorial content is prepared, edited, and provided by the Public Affairs Office of the 108th Training Command (IET). The Griffon is published by Knight Communications, Inc., 10150 Mallard Creek Road, Suite 201, Charlotte, NC, 28262 — a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the 108th Training Command (IET). Material for publication may be submitted to: PAO, 1330 Westover Street, Charlotte, NC 28205-5124.

To coordinate news coverage, contact the 108th Training Command Public Affairs Office - 704-227-2820 ext. 4087 2012 Deadlines: Fall July 20 • Winter October 19

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 5

From the Command Sergeant Major...

By Command Sgt. Maj. Rocci R. DeRezza 108th Training Command (IET)

Soldier Readiness In the Army Reserve, we all have to participate in Soldier Readiness Processing yearly. Soldier readiness is a crucial part of our jobs.

This readiness process begins with you taking the initiative to improve yourself as a Soldier. We must be prepared to attend courses that require us to be physically and medically fit.

Training is a vital part of our career. The Army expects all of us to be prepared for any mission. I

want to urge each of you to challenge yourself to excel in all areas of preparedness. If you can’t meet the core requirements the Army demands of you then you won’t be given the opportunity to improve yourself by completing training or moving up in rank.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to pass your APFT. Challenge yourself and others. Set goals for yourself to improve your APFT score. If you can’t pass an APFT you may not qualify for missions which will hold you back from advancing in your career as a Soldier. Too many times recently I have seen Soldiers being returned home from a mission or course for not being able to pass the physical fitness test. This is unacceptable.

All Soldiers must find the time to keep physically fit. We can’t allow ourselves to become complacent in our jobs. Staying physically fit is part of our job. I know there are many of you that are persistent in maintaining a high APFT score and I want to commend you for that.

Use that desire you have to excel and mentor junior Soldiers that need guidance in this area.

Another area of the Soldier Readiness Process is medical readiness.

It’s your responsibility to make sure your Periodic Health Assessment

(PHA) is current. Other aspects of your health assessments such as dental, immunizations, and vision must all be kept up to date. All your medical readiness can be accessed through your AKO account.

Each category will have medical readiness stoplights. The lights alert you when there is a need for your medical readiness records to be updated. Take the time to re-

view these items when you are accessing AKO. Don’t wait until your yearly SRP to review your medical readiness. Take time to look at your records throughout the year to be prepared before your SRP. Improving our Soldier Readiness will insure that the 108th Training Command Soldiers will always be prepared for our future missions.

Victory starts here!

6 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Drill Sergeant School conducts First consolidated Graduation

SSG Jeremy T. Martin, Leadership Award Recipient, leads the graduates of Class 01-12 in reciting the Drill Sergeant Creed at the end of the first consolidated Drill Sergeant School Graduation at Fort Jackson, SC. Photo by Lt. Col. Christopher Black, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

By Lt. Col. Christopher Black 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

FORT JACKSON, S.C. — The U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School validated the integrated Drill Sergeant Training Program when 91 Reserve and active duty drill sergeant candidates graduated from the consolidated Drill Sergeant School at Fort Jackson on Mar 8. The graduates of Class 01-12, marked the first drill sergeant class to graduate from the consolidated drill sergeant school.

The class initially started with 140 candidates but only 91 walked the stage to receive their drill sergeant campaign hat and badge. Of the candidates, 20 were Army Reserve

Soldiers. As the Soldiers walked the stage and were recognized for their exceptional achievement and professionalism, the casual observer or harden veteran in the audience could not tell the difference between the active duty or the citizen Soldier.

The integration of the Army Reserve Drill Sergeant School, staffed and run by the 108th Training Command (IET) and the Army Drill Sergeant School, was a result of the Army’s continuing transformation aimed at the consolidation of resources and structure under one organization to more effectively train drill sergeant candidates and sustain cadre capabilities over the long

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term. The consolidation of the two programs under the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School at Fort Jackson, S.C. was the product of two years of planning and one year of transition where the Army Reserve Drill Sergeant School Program and leadership were integrated into the Active Component Drill Sergeant School Program. Until this consolidation, the Army Reserve and Army Drill Sergeant Schools were run separately but both programs focused on training drill sergeant candidates to the same high standards.

The ceremony, marking the first combined graduation of the consolidated school, commenced with no overview or highlight of the transformation that had occurred over the last two years leading up to this milestone event in the history of the Drill Sergeant School’s Training Program. The integration of the two school’s drill sergeant leaders and facilities was a seamless process to candidates whether Reserve or active duty. Drill sergeant candidates participating in the first consolidated course observed that cadre whether Reserve or active component were true professionals who enforced high standards and continually mentor them through the drill sergeant candidate training process. Sgt. Maj. Robert E. Maggard, deputy commandant, Army Drill Sergeant School stated that the

focus of the Drill Sergeant Training Program has not changed. We are still committed to training America’s sons and daughters to fight and win. Drill sergeants are on the trail teaching, mentoring, and coaching future Soldiers to live the Army values and the Warrior Ethos.

Fort Jackson Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin R. Benson, provided remarks and highlighted the significant of the graduate’s achievements. Benson stated that you have survived your first cut in the Army by successfully completing this course. You represent the top 10 percent of the non-commissioned officer corp. As the Army downsizes, your achievement of becoming a drill sergeant, makes you a valuable asset to the Army and assures you a future with the military.

The awarding of the campaign hat and drill sergeant badge to graduates of class 01-12 identifies them as non-commissioned officers with uncompromising military bearing and professionalism.

If you would like see additional photos and video of the first consolidated drill sergeant graduation, you can login to the DS recruiting Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/pages/Drill-SergeantRecruiting-108th-Training-Command-IET/194611087318420.

8 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

TF Griffon completes Yellow Ribbon

By Lt. Col. Christopher Black 108th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

ADDISON, TX — On Dec. 9, approximately 214 Soldiers and their family members arrived at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Addison,TX to participate in the Task Force Griffon Pre-Deployment Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Training.The training was sponsored by the 95th Training Division (IET), which is commanded by Brig. Gen. Ray A. Royalty.

Task Force Griffon is comprised of Army Reserve units from across the U.S. under the control of the 95th Training Division.The task force was specifically built with select Reserve capabilities to meet specific mission requirements needed to support training operations in Afghanistan.The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program, a DoD-wide effort, is about assisting Soldiers and their family members identify available resources that help with managing the challenges and stress associated with deployments.The three-day event allowed Soldiers and their family members to spend quality time together prior to the Soldiers departing for mobilization training at Fort Dix, N.J. The agenda opened with a reception organized by the Family

Ms. Paddee Muncy, manager, Family Readiness Program, 95th Training Division (IET) assists a Soldier of Task Force Griffon present a “Hug Me Doll” to his daughter during a reception on Dec. 9 in Addison, TX. Photo by Lt. Col. Christopher Black, 108th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

Programs section of the 95th Training Division (IET).The reception

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THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 9

Task Force Griffon deploys to Afghanistan

By Army Sgt. David Albert

said Layman.“I’m learning a lot about the cultural situation and I anticipate communication being a challenge, but the training we’ve received thus far has definitely Combined Base McGuire-Dixhelped prepare us.�

Lakehurst, N.J. — The 108th TrainInterpersonal skills and cultural ing Command is scheduled to desensitivity are important traits for ploy more than 100 Soldiers from soldiers serving as trainer menJoint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, tors, said Layman.

She credited beN.J. in support of NATO Training ing stationed in Korea and having Mission Afghanistan throughout worked with an interpreter before February and March. as helpful to the upcoming training Task Force Griffon, reminiscent mission. of the 108th unit patch featuring Another task force member reca golden Griffon, is training here ognized how civilian education under the operational guidance of and past combat experience help 72nd Field Artillery Brigade and the prepare him for the road ahead. training mentorship of 174th Infan“Based on my past experience try Brigade, First Army Division East. being deployed to Iraq and drawTF Griffon is the second iteration ing from my civilian job, I’m confiof Army Reserve Soldiers mobilized dent in advising, teaching and trainin support of this NATO-led mising,� said Staff Sgt. Brian Murphy, a sion.Task Force Scorpion comReserve Drill Sergeant and Infantryprised of more than 200 Reservists man with 14 years of service and mobilized, trained and deployed at JB M-D-L last May. Headquartered in four deployments.“Just being able Camp Eggers in Kabul,TF Scorpion to adapt, listen, exercise patience is currently supporting NATO train- and give good suggestions helps asing operations throughout Afghani- sist them and set them up for success.� Murphy is a native of El Paso, stan.

Texas, and has his master’s degree Army Reserve Soldiers from all in psychology. over the United States, with a wide Spec. Robert Campbell, a chaprange of job specialties and civilian lain’s assistant heading on his first backgrounds, are tasked with assistdeployment shared how his civiling in training the Afghan security ian occupation as a respiratory forces. Army 1st Lt. Kelley Layman, a specialist and patient transporter military police officer from Dousin Gainesville, Fla., has taught him man, Wis., anticipates assignment how to face challenges. as an advisor mentor for the Afghan “With my medical and ministry security forces, specifically, helpbackground, I feel privileged to ing implement gender integration train another Army and help them training. become more proficient in basic “I’m looking forward to working soldier skills and other tasks,� said with the females and learning the Campbell.

Campbell volunteered dynamics of how gender integrafor this mission and added that he tion and attitudes affect change,�

Task Force Griffon and Army Capt. Antonia Greene 174th Infantry Brigade

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Army 1st Lt. Chris Villarreal, a native of Allen, Texas trains key leader engagement tactics Feb. 10 with Afghan cultural experts during an advise and assist scenario exercise in preparation for the Task Force Griffon NATO training mission in Afghanistan. Photo by Army Capt.

Antonia Greene, 174th Infantry Brigade

is the sixth generation in his family to serve, dating back to the SpanishAmerican War. Campbell credited the advanced language training and in-depth cultural awareness training during mobilization as key factors in preparing the unit for downrange. Several Afghan cultural experts and Soldiers from Fort Polk, La. augmented the 174th Infantry Brigade to enhance the scenario-driven cultural

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exercise. Conducting several days of face-to-face key leader engagements with immediate feedback is a mainstay of the training.

TF Griffon is scheduled to serve nine months in Afghanistan and return upon completion of the mission.TF Scorpion is expected to begin redeployment mid-March.

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YELLOW RIBBON Continued from page 8

them in order to sustain a healthy family while being mobilized.The social also allowed the group to unwind and mingle after a long day of travel to Addison, which is located on the northern side of Dallas,TX. The event created a relaxed environment for Soldiers, senior leaders, and family members to connect and get to know one another prior to the next day’s schedule of briefings, training, and process of orders.

Royalty opened the Yellow Ribbon event to the approximate 500 participants with a hearty welcome and sincere appreciation for the Soldiers willingness to serve and be a part of something so great. He also thanked the families for their willingness to sacrifice by allowing their loved one the opportunity to serve with the best military in the world and wished every member of the task force “God Speed”, as they embark on this mission.

Brig. Gen. Allen Elliott, deputy commanding general, 108th Training Command (IET), supported Royalty’s comments about willingness to serve and the importance of family support during the process.

He also noted the Yellow Ribbon Program was a great event and was a major improvement over the predeployment training he received when he deployed years before.

Elliott mentioned that during his deployment he had the easy job because in his mind, he already knew what he was doing and where he

was going.The folks that had the hard job were the folks that stayed behind to carry the load. He also mentioned how his family was left to figure things out on their own with some assistance from the Family Readiness Group.

Elliott asked that family members take advantage of this opportunity and to take copious notes about the programs and services available to assist them during the deployment.

He closed by wishing everyone a safe deployment and return.

Ms. Linda MacNeil opened up the training with an entertaining and informative briefing on resiliency. Resiliency training serves to assist Soldiers and family members deal with the stresses and challenges that the deployment cycle creates.The trainMs. Linda MacNeal presents resiliency training to Soldiers and family members of Task Force Griffon at a Yellow Ribbon Event on Dec.10 in Addison, TX. Photo by Lt. Col. Christopher Black, 108th ing also focuses on the imTraining Division (IET) Public Affairs portance of understanding effective strategies for commil), TRICARE (http://www.tricare. session, the audience was broken munication and stress relief bemil/), Dental Coverage, Insurance down into three groups where tween couples before, during, and Coverage/Needs (USAA), Employer training was conducted in a round Support of the Guard and Reserve after the deployment. Ms. MacNeal robin fashion to expedite the train(ESGR) (http://www.esgr.org/ is a military spouse and has had to ing and to allow the participants site/), Finances, Family Life, and deal with the stresses associated access to informational briefRed Cross (www.redcross.org). with her husband’s deployment in ings. Guest speakers provided the 2006. Ms. MacNeal’s humorist apgroups with overviews and contact Military OneSource (www.militaryonesource.mil) was the final information for several programs proach to educating the audience presentation before the training available to assess and support on managing stress and dealing them during the deployment cycle. events concluded. with the deployment challenges One of the highlights of this The following programs were prehighlighted the importance of the Yellow Ribbon Integration event sented during the session: Army services and programs being prewas the number of volunteers Disaster Personnel Accounting Syssented at the Yellow Ribbon event. tem (ADPASS) (https://adpass.army. that assisted and the support of After Ms. MacNeal’s opening the communities affected by this deployment. Volunteers from the 95th Training Division (IET) Family Readiness Group were instrumental in processing and assisting the families during the event. In addition, Family Programs coordinated with community programs to provide “Hug Dolls”, backpacks and goody bags to every child of a deploying Soldier. The “Hug Dolls” were kissed by the deploying parent and offered to their child as a token of love and reminder of their love for them while they are deployed.

Ms. Paddee Muncy, manager for the 95th Training Division’s Family Readiness Program, coordinated with local contracts to get 4H to donate backpacks with coloring books and others materials to entertain the children while their parents attended training. In addition, all the speakers, set-up information booths loaded with incentive items and brochures to reinforce the information presented. Mr. Clifton McLamb, Yellow Ribbon Coordinator, 108th Training Command (IET), stated that the volunteers and community partnerships greatly enhance the experience and value to Soldiers and their families in preparation for the deploying family member’s absence during deployment.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 11

Best Iroquois Warriors

By Staff Sgt. Richard Harris 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

Combined Base McGuire-DixLakehurst, N.J. - An endless assortment of biting insects and fog as thick as gray blankets, greeted the participants of the 98th Training Division’s Best Warrior Competition held at Combined Base McGuireDix-Lakehurst in the garden state of N.J. The annual event, a grueling 3-day marathon, which tests a Soldier’s knowledge across a wide myriad of army skills and exercises, was hosted by the 3/385th Regiment, 4th Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET). Soldiering supremacy for the Iroquois division would be tested when the best of the best met in the spirit of the contest.

The competition evaluated the following categories: APFT, CTT/ AWT, day/night land navigation, obstacle course, 9M to M16, M240B/ M249 evaluation, M4Zero KD qualification, M4 RETS qualification, night qualification, 10K road march, written evaluation and ending with a personal appearance board with command sergeants major across the division to include Command Sgt. Maj. Grady Blue, 98th Training Division (IET) and president of the board.

The event, not only assessed the level of knowledge of the competitors, but also strived to educate Soldiers whenever down time presented itself.

“I’ve got these Soldiers here,” Master Sgt. Alejandro (Alex) Arroyo said. “Any time we can squeeze some training into anything, we will.”

These sentiments were echoed throughout the non-commissioned officers’ corps of this battalion. The 3/385th, led by Lt. Col. Brian Miller and Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Bruce, has a reputation of thinking above and beyond normal constraints and they brought this esprit de corps to the competition this year.

“It (the training) was pretty intense,” Soldier of the Year Spec. Robert Woods said. “Everything was flawless.” Soldiers were tested continually, but the total of immersion of an army environment added an extra layer to the experience.

Soldier of the Year runner-up Pfc. Benjamin Rhodes echoed Wood’s comments by adding,“There was a lot more hands on… more high speed stuff.” The bar was firmly set and excellence would be the only acceptable standard.

“All the cadre did an excellent job demonstrating what to do and staying involved,” Staff Sgt. Grant Dodge, winner of the Drill Sergeant of the Year award said. The tournament showcased his many skills and awarded him the opportunity

Soldiers eye the targets in the early hours at the 9MM range. Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

to be accompanied by the division’s highest non-commissioned officer during the road march.

“Your (Command Sgt. Maj. Grady Blue) effort definitely showed and reflected on me… pushing me to the next level,” Staff Sergeant Dodge said during the awards banquet.

There was extensive support for Soldiers throughout the competition, but Command Sgt. Maj. Blue was not the only command sergeant major to be mentioned for mentorship and support during the strenuous road march.

Non-commissioned OfCompetition winners – Staff Sgt. Danneit Disla, 1/323rd Regt. 2nd Bde. (NCO of the Year), Spec. Robficer of the Year winner, ert Woods, 2/285th Regt. 4th Bde. (Soldier of the Year) Staff Sgt. Grant Dodge, 1/317th Regt. 3rd Bde. Staff Sgt. Danneit Disla (Drill Sgt of the Year). Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs cited his own command sergeant major for making the trip to N.J. to support him. “She (Command Sgt. Maj. Jennifer Bray) looked for me during the road march, walked with me, and helped me get through it.”

Disla paused after a brief moment of reflection then added, “After this competition, I feel like a better NCO.” This year’s competition winners were – Spc. Robert Woods, 3/385th * Regt 4th Bde. (Soldier of the Year), Staff Sgt. Danneit Disla, 1/323rd Regt 2nd Bde. (NCO of the Year), Staff Sgt. Grant Dodge, 1/317th 3rd Bde. (Drill Sgt of the Year).

Not only did the competition determine the best Iroquois warNew Location riors of today, but also continued On Fort Jackson: to develop and mentor the future 5470 Jackson Blvd. of Iroquois leadership. The contest winners will now head to the U.S. 800-272-0695 Army Reserve Best Warrior compewww.allsouth.org tition hosted at Fort McCoy, Wis., from July 14 – 21, 2012. *Standard Rates Apply Federally Insured by the NCUA. Hooah!

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12 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

The Iroquois Warrior Brigade changes command to a new Chief

By Capt. Brent Denisar 2nd Brigade 98th Training Division (IET), G-1

Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commanding general of the 98th Training Division (IET) stands with Col. Paul A. Driscoll and Col. Miles A. Davis during a change of command ceremony. Davis assumed command of 2nd Bde., 98th Training Division (IET) from Driscoll on March 18. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

FORT JACKSON, S.C. — It was a one-star studded event twice over as Col. Miles Davis assumed command of the 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) and the Iroquois Warrior Brigade guidon from Col. Paul Driscoll Sunday, Mar. 18, at Hilton Field, Ft. Jackson S.C. Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commanding general, 98th Training Division (IET) served as reviewing officer. Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty, distinguished guest and commanding general, 95th Training Division (IET) attended the ceremony along with Col. Steve Yackley, deputy commander, U.S. Army Training Center, Fort Jackson, and about 150 other guests.

Lt. Col. Donald Campbell, deputy commander, 2nd Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) served as commander of troops for the approximately 200 Soldier formation.

“Change of command is so important to us. It is different, graciable, and orderly,” said Edwards.

“Leading Soldiers is the highest privilege we will ever hold. It is

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THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 13

The Soldiers of 2nd Bde., 98th Division (IET), 108th Training Command (IET) stand in formation during a change of command ceremony held March 18 at Hilton Field on Fort Jackson, S.C. Col. Miles A. Davis assumed command of 2nd Brigade from outgoing commander Paul A. Driscoll. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

not given by birthright, income, or position. A commander is selected by merit. That is what makes us different, makes us best.”

Davis served as the brigade deputy commanding officer, 4th Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) headquartered in Beaver Dam, Wis. prior to assuming command.

“Col. Davis has a long, rich back-

ground in the training environment.

He knows IET,” said Edwards. “He started off enlisted as a MP and knows the importance that drill sergeants play in molding, mentoring, and teaching Soldiers.” Davis has served in numerous command and operational assignments in the 70th, 84th, 100th, 95th, and 98th divisions.

The speech Davis gave was selfdefined as a simple one, that of: appreciation, anticipation, and expectation.

“Appreciation — to God who made this day possible…to family…to friends,” said Davis. “Anticipation — for all that lies ahead, for the future of this brigade is a bright one. Expectation — as noted by

Charles F. Kettering,‘High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectations.’

We will be the premier training brigade in the United States Army, led by the most professional officers, NCOs, and Soldiers in the United States Army, providing the see NEW CHIEF page 14

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14 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

READY FOR YOUR NEXT CHALLENGE?

Col. Miles A. Davis, incoming commander of 2nd Bde., 98th Training Division (IET), 108th Training Command (IET), addresses the audience during a change of command ceremony held Mar. 18 at Hilton Field on Fort Jackson, S.C. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Marty A. Collins, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

NEW CHIEF Continued from page 13

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best prepared Soldiers in the world.

We will be the standard to which all other brigades are measured.”

Driscoll moves to the 98th Training Division (IET) staff headquartered in Rochester, N.Y. He is a current resident of Virginia Beach, Va. with his family.

“Col. Driscoll didn’t hesitate, stepped up, and said yes when we needed him,” said Edwards. “He has worked tirelessly ever since and pushed the brigade to new levels.”

“Command has been one of the most rewarding assignments in my 27 years in uniform,” said Driscoll.

“To my successor—Col. Davis—I look forward to watching you lead this brigade to new heights and the next level.”

Davis is a Joint Qualified Officer and a graduate of the Infantry Officer Basic and Advance Course, Military Police Captains Career Course, Combined Arms and Service Staff School, Command and General Staff College, and Resident Army War College. He has a MBA from East-

Gannon is a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon program.

ern Michigan University and MSS from the United States Army War College. He is a current resident of Livonia, Mich. with his family.

Davis’ awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with six Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “Hourglass” and “M” Device, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency–Gold, Danish Contingent March Medal, and the Order of Saint Maurice–Centurion Level.

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16 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Bataan Memorial Death March: Soldiers honoring Soldiers

By Charlie Co., 1st Bn. 415th Regiment, 95th Training Division (IET)

WHITE SANDS, N.M. — On March 24th and 25th, eight Soldiers from Bravo and Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 415th Regiment traveled to White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico to compete in the 23rd Annual Bataan Memorial Death March. The march, which honors the brave service members responsible for the defense of the islands of Luzon, Corregidor and the Philippines who were surrendered to the Japanese during World War II, commemorates the brutal march endured by the prisoners of war to their internment camps.

B and C Company members participated in various categories with and without rucksacks and completed the 26.2 mile event in times ranging between 6 and 9 ½ hours.

The Soldiers who participated were: B Co: — 1st Sgt. Lisa Goenen C Co: — 1st Lt.Todd Hamilton, commander — 1st Lt. Chelsi Drabek, executive officer — 1st Sgt. Jack O’Leile — Sgt. First Class Johnny Goenen, senior drill sergeant — Staff Sgt. Casey Alexander, senior drill sergeant — Staff Sgt.Troy Braun, drill sergeant — Sgt. Amanda Vancannon, drill sergeant candidate Both Alexander and Hamilton

had participated in previous marches in 2007 and 2002, respectively.

“Alexander is a young, hardcharging infantry drill sergeant and came to me asking if I wanted to walk it with him,” said Hamilton.

From there, it spread throughout the company. Soldiers became interested in participating in the world-class event and to see what they Soldiers L to R: 1st Sgt. Jack O’Leile, 1st Lt. Todd Hamilton, 1st Lt. Chelsi Drabek, Staff Sgt. Casey Alexander, Staff were made of.

Sgt. Troy Braun and Sgt. Amanda Vancannon stand in front of the outdoor displays for the White Sands MisThe event had sile Range Museum prior to participating in the 23rd Annual Bataan Memorial Death March. Courtesy photo over 7,400 participants this From across the globe, teams and gory which was civilian attire with yea choice of foot wear and a water individuals, both military and civilVancannon participated in the source. ian, meet to compete in the Bataan military light category which The one-day event started at Memorial Death March. Each year consisted of wearing a complete 6:30 a.m. with reveille, a tribute to since 1992, with the exception of uniform with boots and a water the Bataan veterans and a special 2003, the march has been held at source. honorary to those Bataan survivors White Sands Missile Range, N.M. Alexander and Braun were in the who were present.

“I absolutely love it. That’s why civilian heavy category. They were There were other events which I went back. It was the first time I required to wear civilian attire with included skydivers, patriotic songs did the march since getting woundchoice of footwear, 35-pound ruckand a final roll call for Bataan caed while deployed, so for me it was sack and a water source. sualties. The race started at 7:20 to sort of see if I could still do it,” The remaining five Soldiers para.m. and everyone had to be off the said Hamilton. course no later than 8 p.m. ticipated in the civilian light cateHamilton said the temperature for the day was forecasted to be 7780 degrees that day. However, the temperature reached a record high of 88 degrees. “By the time Soldiers arrived at mile 15 or 16, it was pretty warm out,” he said.

“I did military heavy my first time doing the event. It takes a lot out of you,” he said.“ The civilian categories are a good way for folks who have never done the event to get sensitized to it, so next time they can do it in uniform and boots since they’ll know what to expect.”

Hamilton also highlighted that another exciting part of the march is that you get to meet some of the Bataan survivors before and after the race.“You’re completely worn out when you finish the 26.2 miles, but at least you weren’t getting shot, clubbed, bayoneted or beheaded. When you think of it that way, it doesn’t seem to hurt as badly,” said Hamilton.

When Hamilton was a high school Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadet, he received an award from the son of the Gen. Jonathan Wainwright, the general who commanded the forces who surrendered at Bataan and Corrigedor. He said it seemed like a natural connection to him and still does to do the march and he’s looking for Soldiers who want to participate next year.

18 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Task Force Scorpion Redeploys!

Many Soldiers received their Welcome Home Warrior Awards within hours after they returned. Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

By Staff Sgt. Richard Harris 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

Redeploy … may be the second best word ever created for deployed Soldiers.

And for the 200 Task Force Scorpion Soldiers, assigned to the fourth brigade of the 98th Training Divi-

sion, who traveled to Afghanistan in support of NTM-A (National Training Mission – Afghanistan) it would be nine months before they would return after having had the responsible of training the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).

It’s hard not to smile when you

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say the word over in your head.

For Soldiers, redeployment simply means returning to friends, love ones and familiar sites. It’s a chance to reconnect. It’s a return to the reality that was pre-deployment that for so long seemed so unattainable, so unthinkable, while

in country.

But then one day the word started popping up in meetings until there were meetings dealing with nothing but redeployment. The time of departure was drawing near.

Though it is true redeploy is a

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 19

98th Div. Family Readiness Support Assistant, Diane Johnson, greets Soldiers with a warm hug. Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

Maj. Gen. Robert Stall and Bri. Gen. Dwayne Edwards welcome home Task Force Scorpion Soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Photo by Staff Sgt. Richard Harris, 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs

great word, but it is still second only to the best word ever… home, which is the reason why we serve.

It’s what draws our focus back in when we think we’ve lost sight of the end. It’s what we think about when we are alone in those quiet moments just before bed. It’s what we wonder about when we gaze up at the stars on clear nights.

Home is the word we remember during lengthy and multiple deployments. It’s the reason we fly

what the division did for Iraq back in 2004. The mission, known as the Foreign Army Training Assistance Command (FA-TRAC), consisted primarily of training the new Iraqi Army and Iraqi security forces.

So, remember the tough times you had and remember that you beat them. You survived and now you’re home — in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Or rather, this is the land of the free because the brave call it “home.”

all over the world doing the toughest jobs in the harshest possible environments. We know that regardless of the difficulty of the task of our duty, our home benefits by our service and the sacrifices felt by all.

Now that you’re home, spend this time surrounded by family and friends and remember the job you did over there and the reason you did it.

You trained the trainers of the Afghan Army, which is similar to

Welcome home!

For other articles on Task Force Scorpion, read “Task Force Scorpion in full training mode,” by David Moore and Capt. Antonia Greene, 174th Infantry Public Affairs Office.

For more information, pictures and video on Task Force Scorpion, visit their Facebook site at: http://www.facebook.com/ pages/Task-Force-Scorpion-NTMA/201721263194063.

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20 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

A Transition of Command for the 1st Brigade

The Soldiers of 1st Bde., 98th Division (IET), stand in formation during a change of command ceremony held Apr. 14 at the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga. Col. Bart Stovicek relinquished command of 1st Brigade to the incoming Col. Chadwick Barklay. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

By Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

COLUMBUS, Ga. — Today marks a new chapter for the Soldiers of the 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET). In a change of command ceremony on Apr. 14, at the historic National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga., brigade commander, Col. Bart Stovicek, passed the colors, signifying change of command authority, to the new brigade commander. Presiding over the ceremony was Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commanding general, 98th Training Division (IET).

“I must say that this time in command has been, without question, both the most challenging and most rewarding time I have spent in the military,” said Stovicek. “Challenging because we are a military in transition and we, as a unit, and as Soldiers have experienced and continue to experience the increased demands and diminished resources of a military trying, as we are, to bring order to chaos, and understanding to uncertainty.”

Stovicek added that the reward this past year has been witnessing the responses from the Soldiers of the brigade.

“We all have a role to play in the defense of this great nation, and you, the Soldiers of 1st Brigade, continue to perform your mission with dedication and professionalism.”

Stovicek also thanked his family for their limitless support and sacrifices over the years. While closing his remarks, he thanked the Soldiers for their service and dedication to duty. “I am proud to have been a member of the 1st Brigade, and I look forward to observing, through a different lens, the many successes you will surely achieve – ‘Warhorse!’”

Following tradition, Stovicek passed the colors, the symbol of the brigade’s identity, signifying change of command authority to the incoming commander. The ceremony emphasizes the continuity of leadership and unit identity, and symbolizes the transfer of command responsibility from the departing commander to the arriving commander.

Edwards, who presided over the ceremony, expressed that as one great commander continues on to progress his career, he is replaced with another great and equally qualified commander.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 21

Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commanding general of the 98th Training Division (IET) stands with Col. Bart Stovicek and Col. Chadwick Barklay during a change of command ceremony. Barklay assumed command of 1st Bde., 98th Training Division (IET) from Stovicek on Apr. 14. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

Col. Chadwick Barkley, the incoming commander, thanked Edwards for the opportunity to become a part of the “Iroquois” division and says he looks forward to the responsibilities as the 98th, 1st

Brigade commander.

“The 98th Division has a wellearned reputation as one of the best training divisions in the Army, and 1st Brigade has certainly been instrumental in establishing that

Col. Bart Stovicek, outgoing commander of 1st Bde., 98th Training Division (IET), addresses the audience during a change of command ceremony held Apr. 14 at the National Infantry Museum in Columbus, Ga. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

reputation, and it is a reputation I intend to uphold.”

“I pledge to each and every Soldier in our brigade that I will honor my oath of office, and the trust and faith that you have that I com-

mand this unit, and take care of our Soldiers, to the best of my abilities.”

The 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (IET) is headquartered on Fort Benning, Ga. and is made up of units across the southeastern U.S.

22 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Fort Benning Armed Forces Reserve Center officially opens

From L to R: Bill Stembridge, staffer Sen. Sonny Chambliss for Ga.; Col. Jeffery Fletcher, Fort Benning garrison commander; Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Alan Bell, USAR Ambassador from Ga.; Rep. Sanford Bishop from Ga.; Brig. Gen. William J. Gothard, deputy commander, 81st RSC; Maj. Gen. Robert P. Stall, commanding general, 108th Training Command (IET); Brig. Gen. Dwayne R. Edwards, commanding general, 98th Training Div. (IET); Brig. Gen. Joseph Jerrard, deputy adjutant general, Georgia Department of Defense; Col. Manuel Santiago, 4th Bde., 75th Training Div., prepare to cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the new Armed Forces Reserve Center at Fort Benning, Ga., Apr. 14. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea J. Smith 108th Training Command (IET)

By Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

FORT BENNING, Ga. — It was an exciting day for the new tenants who will now officially occupy a new Armed Forces Reserve Center (AFRC) located on Fort Benning, Ga. On a beautiful Georgia day, the 81st Regional Support Command hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of the new facility.

The $21-million AFRC will house more than 450 Soldiers of the National Guard and Army Reserve to include military resources and staff

from the 98th Training Division (IET).

The event was held Sat, Apr. 14 and was hosted by Brig. Gen. William Gothard, deputy commander, 81st Regional Support Command, headquartered at Fort Jackson, S.C. The Ga. native expressed that for him, it was a day of emotion and gratitude. Gratitude – with the opening of the new AFRC marking another significant step along the path of progression and Emotion – because Fort Benning was no unfamiliar place to him. This month, 34 years ago, he first walked onto Fort Benning as a “somewhat dazed”

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2nd Lt. “We’ve gotten the resources to replace a lot of the dilapidated WW II and Korean War era facilities to have a new building like this which makes us proud to come to work as Soldiers, and it’s a kind of facility that our Soldiers and our young Soldiers deserve,” said Gothard.

The official party included Rep. Sanford Bishop, Georgia House of Representatives, 2nd District, Brig.

Gen. William Gothard, deputy commander, 81st Regional Support Command and Brig. Gen. Dwayne Edwards, commanding general, 98th Training Command (IET).

In Edwards remarks to the audience, he said that the 1100-mile move from Rochester, N.Y. to Ga. has been an exciting process. He went on to highlight the significance of the move for the division headquarters pointing out the strong ties the 98th Training Division (IET) has not only to Rochester but to the N.Y. area in general.

“Here we are, we are going to be glad to be here, we will bring our proud traditions south from N.Y. and we look forward to becoming contributing members of the Fort Benning community.”

After expressing his gratitude to those who contributed to the

planning and construction of the AFRC Edwards also thanked the Soldiers in formation for what they do, what they represent, and for being a part of what this great nation deserves.“This is truly something deserving of the people who are going to occupy it and absolutely living up to the highest standards that we could ask for.”

The center will be home to approximately 50 personnel of the 98th Training Division (IET). Also consolidated to the AFRC are 12 other units to include the 1207th U.S. Army Hospital, and the 718th Engineer Company.

Rep. Bishop, who is the Ranking Member the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, concluded his comments by saying the successful completion of projects such as these ensures us that we have the most strongest and most efficient ran military in the world; able to discharge our responsibilities.

The 139,755-square-foot site was constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers and also includes a 122,491-square-foot Reserve Center, a 13,484 -square-foot maintenance facility and a 13,484-squarefoot storage facility.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 23

24 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Top Soldiers compete for Best Warrior

By Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire 95th Training Division, (IET) Public Affairs

FORT SILL, Okla., — Top Soldiers from units throughout the 95th Training Division gathered at Fort Sill, Okla., to test their mettle in the annual Best Warrior Competition. For three days, Mar. 8-10, a dozen warriors vied for Soldier of the Year, Non-commissioned Officer of the Year, and Drill Sergeant of the Year.

Select Soldiers also sought entry into the division’s prestigious Andrew Miller Club. The competition involved physical fitness, land navigation, weapons qualification, combatives, first aid, and other essential skills. Soldiers also endured a grueling 12-mile road march and intense examination before a board of sergeants major.

Soldiers were scored based on the skill and timing with which they completed each task. The event climaxed with a formal dining where the winners were announced: Soldier of the Year, Spc. Joseph D. Wilson, 2/377, Lincoln, Neb.; NCO of the Year, Staff Sgt. Jasper R. Kohoutek, 3/415, Spokane, Wash.; and Drill Sergeant of the Year, Staff Sgt. Jarod P. Moss, 2/354, Grand Prairie,TX. Winners will represent the division at the command level and potentially move on to the Army Reserve competition.

“All of these Soldiers are win-

Board - Soldiers displayed their knowledge of a wide range of military subjects before a board of sergeants major. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire 95th Training Division, (IET) Public Affairs

ners,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Richard J. Minton, 95th Training Division Command (IET).“They demonstrated their ability to adapt and overcome. They now know their strengths and their battle buddies’ strengths, and they’re well positioned for the next level of the competition.”

Winners - Left to right: Drill Sergeant of the Year, Staff Sgt. Jarod P. Moss; NCO of the Year, Staff Sgt. Jasper R. Kohoutek; Soldier of the Year, Spc. Joseph D. Wilson; 95th Training Division, Command Sgt. Maj. Richard J. Minton. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire 95th Training Division, (IET) Public Affairs

APFT - Freezing rain pelted the competitors during the 2-mile run portion of the Army Physical Fitness Test. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Paul McGuire 95th Training Division, (IET) Public Affairs

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26 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Army Chaplain makes “Magical Memories” as a marathon runner

By Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M. Litchfield 104th Training Division (LT) Public Affairs

ORLANDO, Fla. — Stars twinkled overhead and breath hung in clouds of condensation as over 35,000 runners left the warmth of their hotel rooms and began gathering in the early morning chill for the beginning of Disney’s marathon weekend in Orlando, Fla. Not a stand-alone event, but rather a whole weekend celebration, the races, which took place in early Jan., last three days and include not only a full and half marathon, but also a 5K race and a family fun run.

Among this year’s competitors was Army Capt. Diane Ricci, Chaplain for the 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT).

Ricci began running while deployed to Iraq.The time she spent running was therapeutic, not only a way to help her sleep but also giving her concentrated time to pray and a way to free her mind from the confusion of war. She started her long distance running by completing Capt. Diane Ricci, Chaplain for the 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT), participates in the 2012 Goofy Challenge 1/2 and full maraa 5K while still deployed, and thon events at Walt Disney World, Orlando, Fla. Courtesy Photo moved on to half marathons.

Her first half marathon was part of a relay tri-athalon in fall 2009 WDW in 2010 I was happy but in order to qualify, all runners must and all the training paid off in the and her first “real” half marathon then wanted to try for the full. complete the races at a time of less end when I finished well the most was also part of the Walt Disney But then I thought,‘no, Diane, you than 15 minutes per mile. difficult physical challenge I put World runner’s weekend but in should just go for the Goofy Chal“I finished well,” Ricci said.“I ran myself to.”

2010. lenge because after you do the full all of the ½ marathon and sprinted The 11 months of training was After completing that challenge, you’ll want to do that.’ So I did.” at the end, I ran the first 21 miles not an obstacle for Ricci, but it did Ricci decided that the next logical The Goofy Challenge consists of of the full marathon, took a break present an environment challenge progression was a full marathon a half marathon on Saturday, in adfor four miles, then sprinted the as the marathon weekend and and then decided to go one step dition to a full marathon on Sunday. last 1.1 miles. It was a challenge to Goofy Challenge take place in Orfurther.

For those of you counting, that is train and keep up with the rigorlando, while she trains in the chal“When I did the ½ marathon at a total of 39 miles in two days, and ous schedule with work and Army lenging Colorado climate.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 27 “It was definitely easier to breathe (in Florida).The challenge was the humidity. Although it was not hot by any means, Florida is definitely more humid so the mornings of the runs I was cold which I am not used to in the dry Colorado climate,” Ricci explained.

The course, which was lined with cheering Disney employees, Disney characters, and dotted with people in costume, was a departure from her usual training regiment which included long runs on the “boring” treadmill because of snow.

Ricci herself even wore Minnie Mouse ears during her first race.

Not really a surprise for a chaplain, but Ricci credits her faith for keeping her motivated.

“I am honoring God and myself,” Ricci explains.“It may seem strange to some, but running is like meditation for me. What also motivates me is the challenge. Each year I choose a goal and strive and train to meet it.This year with the Goofy Challenge I pushed myself mentally and physically harder than I ever have and accomplished a physical goal I thought was impossible for a nonathlete like myself.”

Ricci was also quick to point out that this type of work and training goes hand in hand with her Army mission.

“Running helps me with Army training,” Ricci credits.“It teaches me discipline and that looking and

striving for long term is challenging and takes time, patience, and practice but is worth it to reach the end goal – or mission complete. Also, I train at the gym with weights and concentrate on my core which helps with running and PT in general.”

Ricci could have chosen any marathon, but this race holds special memories for her.

“I love Disney,” she enthused.“My Dad used to take me to Disneyland as a kid so earning a Mickey Mouse Medal was exciting.”

She went on to explain that wasn’t the only reason she wanted to compete in this particular type of venue.

“I am always up to a challenge and enjoy pushing myself so going after the Goofy medal (you can only earn it if you successfully complete both races within their time parameters) would prove to be a hard challenge. When I first began running I never thought I would run a ½ marathon much less a ½ and a full back to back.”

From the pre- race show of fireworks, singing of the national anthem, moment of silence for fallen Soldiers, and a prolonged cheer for those serving, to the moment the Goofy medal was placed around her neck, the event was pure magic for Ricci.

“Everything was magical; being there, the medals, everything. For

Capt. Diane Ricci, Chaplain for the 1st Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT), proudly displays her Goofy Challenge Marathon number and medal. The 1/2 and full marathon took place at Walt Disney World, Orlando, Fla., January 2012. Courtesy Photo

the marathon portion, I got to run through all four parks at WDW which was magical in itself as you run through the parks before they open,” Ricci explained.

She also had time to make a little magic after the race.

“I also took advantage of the military park hopper pass and went back to all four parks to see them from the tourist point of view,” Ricci smiled.

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Ricci was pleased to have accomplished her goal and to have been successful with her quest.

“When the man put the Goofy medal around my neck I knew I had competed an event that took physical training mental stamina and determination and I knew I had done it and was proud of myself for having completed the challenge and the training,” she concluded.

28 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Timberwolves help prepare participants for Sandhurst Competition

By Maj. Alex Johnson 104th Training Division (LT) Public Affairs

WEST POINT, N.Y. — As the 104th Division Best Warriors gathered at West Point to compete to represent the division, 3rd Brigade sent trainers to conduct the ranges for the competitors. Not only did the 3/304th put the division competitors through their paces, they also conducted range operations to prepare a different set of competitors for the Sandhurst Competition.

In 1967, a competition was established between the United States Military Academy and the Royal Military Academy of Sandhurst of Great Britain. The competition has expanded to include representatives from each of the ROTC regions, the Naval and Air Force Academies, and Academy Prep Schools.

This year’s competition also include teams from the Royal Military College of Canada, the Chilean Military Academy, the Spanish Military Academy, the Royal Military College, of Duntroon (Australia), the National Military Academy of Afghanistan, and the PLA University of Science Timberwolves of the 3/304th conduct range operations for the Afghan “National Team” National Military Academy of Afghanistan. and Technology (People’s Republic Photo by Maj. Alex Johnson, 104th Training Division (LT) Public Affairs of China).

The 3/304th, which regularly rifle and pistol ranges, land navigasends trainers to support cadet ons, boat operations, and medical petitors familiarization opportunition, communications, heavy weaptraining at the USMA, opened the lanes to allow the Sandhurst comties on the West Point ranges.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 29

Gray named to the Commandant’s List

Staff Sgt. Rebekah Gray, 2/321st Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET), was recognized for receiving placement on the Commandant’s List for Class 04-12 at Fort Jackson, S.C. on Mar. 29. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea J. Smith, 108th Training Command (IET)

training,” said Gray. It’s basic training all over again but, the long grueling days engrossed in class work and physical activity paid off.

Creating a path for a lifetime of learning ahead for the average 18 or 19 year old will not be an easy job. But to Gray, the sense of pride she will feel when she puts on her

Staff Sgt. Rebekah Gray, 2/321st Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET), receives recognition from Sgt. Maj. Blaine Huston, deputy commandant, U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School, for placement on the Commandant’s List for Class 04-12 at Fort Jackson, S.C. on Mar. 29.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea J. Smith, 108th Training Command (IET)

By Staff Sgt. Andrea J. Smith 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs

FORT JACKSON, S.C. — They are experts, coaches and counselors.They live the Army Values and are symbols of excellence shaping civilians into combat-ready Soldiers.

They represent the individuals at the foundation of the leadership closest to our Soldiers.They are a source of inspiration.They are Drill Sergeants.

A career goal for many non-commissioned officers is to receive an acceptance to attend drill sergeant school.Through hard work and dedication, that opportunity earned Staff Sgt. Rebekah Gray a distinguished recognition.

Gray, assigned to the 2/321st Regiment, 98th Training Division (IET) in Perrine, Fla., was recognized on Mar. 19, for achieving placement on the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant School Course Commandant’s List.

The Fort Lauderdale, Fla. native said the rewards of becoming a drill sergeant far outweighed the challenges.“Becoming a drill sergeant is challenging and it provides great NCOs an opportunity to train and produce good Soldiers,” said Gray.

“It was a tough journey with a lot of long days and studying. I’m glad that I was able to achieve my career

goal of becoming a drill sergeant.”

The ceremony served to recognize 94 graduates of Class 04-12.

Of the class, 16 NCOs in the active Army, and Army Reserve were named to the Commandant’s List.

“Achieving placement on the Commandant’s List is truly an honor,” said Gray. However, the true winners are the Soldiers she will train to their true potential when she assumes her duties in the upcoming months.

According to her instructor, Staff Sgt. Ian Strook, Gray personifies what a drill sergeant is all about.“She was very professional throughout the entire course and didn’t stray from distractions,” he said.“She hit the ground running and continually exceeded the standards.”

The course provides instruction intended to build on existing practical knowledge and leadership abilities and offers a unique set of skills necessary to train Initial Entry Training Soldiers.

Gray mentioned that she tackled the course with the same enthusiasm and dedication she displayed in Basic Combat Training.“There are many similarities in the training.You go through the entire nine weeks just like you are in initial

campaign hat, the proud symbol of the drill sergeant, and remembers that ingrained phrase from the Drill Sergeant Creed,“I will instill pride in all I train, Pride in self, in the Army, and in country” – will be a pride she will carry for the rest of her life.

This we’ll defend!

30 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

2nd Brigade, 95th changes leadership

By Capt. Elizabeth A. Bonner 2nd Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) Assistant S3

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The six battalions of 2nd Brigade, 95th Division (IET) gathered at the Armed Forces Reserve Center on Feb. 11, to welcome the incoming commander, Col. Peter Norseth, and say thank you to the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Jonathan Litton, during their change of command ceremony.These battalions represent the 750 Soldiers that are located in 21 locations and 11 different states that form the 2nd Brigade team.The mission of the brigade is to provide trained drill sergeants to the Army Training Centers in order to conduct basic combat training and help turn civilians into Soldiers.

Officiating the ceremony was Col. Donald Nalls, 95th Division chief of staff, who was there on behalf of the commander of the 95th.The change of command ceremony symbolizes the tradition of uninterrupted passage of command responsibilities from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander. Nalls reminded the Soldiers that the job was not complete just because operations in Iraq and Afghanistan were winding down and told them to “Focus on what you do best and all will be well.”

Litton joined the brigade in Oct. 2011 as the deputy commanding officer. Prior to taking command, Litton was mobilized and deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn as the 3rd

From L to R: Col. Donald Nalls, chief of staff, 95th Training Division (IET), Col. Peter Norseth, incoming commander, Col. Jonathan D. Litton, outgoing commander, 2nd Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) prepare with the 2nd Brigade Command Sgt. Maj., Denise Dial, to receive the colors at the change of command ceremony on Feb. 11. Photo by Col. Donald Nalls, chief of staff, 95th Training Capt. Elizabeth A. Bonner, 2nd Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET), Assistant S3 Division (IET) passes the unit colors to Col. Peter Norseth, incoming commander, 2nd Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) at the Army liaison officer to headquarportunity to work with the comchange of command ceremony on Feb. 11. ters. manders and Soldiers of the 2nd Photo by Capt. Elizabeth A. Bonner, 2nd Brigade, “It has been an honor to be Brigade team. During his speech, 95th Training Division (IET), Assistant S3

your commander for the past few months,” said Litton. Both he and the brigade are excited to have him rejoin the team as the deputy commander. Litton also said that he is looking forward to working with Col. Norseth, the brigade, and the Soldiers.

Norseth most recently served as the 2213th Mobilization Support Battalion commander. He started his Army career as a field artillery officer and transferred to the Military Intelligence Branch in 1992.

Norseth is excited about the op-

he asked the Soldiers to remember one simple thing,“Army Strong.”

Three parts to living up to the brand,“Army Strong” is being physically fit, emotionally fit, and men-

Two brothers to compete in Best Ranger Competition at Fort Benning

By Ben Wright

another opportunity to compete.

“I was always looking for another opportunity,” he said.“Between deMajor Jim Keirsey and his brothployments and duty assignments, I er, Captain Kent Keirsey talk about never had that opportunity.” the upcoming Best Ranger competiJim, 32, and Kent, 30, of the 104th tion at Fort Benning.

Division have been training since When January for the David E. the competiGrange Jr. Best tion. During Ranger Comthe history petition kicks of the event off early Friday and last year, at Fort Benmany teams ning, it will be have fallen a family affair during the for two brothroad march ers. on the first “It’s great day. to be on the The Keirsey brothers. Courtesy Photo “I think team with my the big test brother,” Maj. Jim Keirsey said of is the long movements,” Jim said. his brother Capt. Kent Keirsey.“It’s “The land navigation will test evsomething we always wanted to do, erybody’s character and discipline Best Ranger.” ability to get through it.”

The Keirseys are one of 50 teams As a team, Kent said the brothers taking part in the annual event to may have an edge knowing each determine the Army’s best soldier others habits and how to motivate team.They will compete in a series each other. of events that include firing weap“I have known this guy for 30 ons, extended road marches, naviga- years,” Kent said of his brother.“We tion courses, Ranger skills and othknow each others habits and how er exercises. After about 60 hours to motivate each other. I think that of competition, the grueling event will help out.” ends Sunday with an announceDuring the public events, the ment of the winners.

Keirseys will be watched by their father, who was a Ranger but never Since 2005 when he got injured, competed in the event.

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tally fit. Norseth believes that this is worthy of living up to and reminded us that the command team is there to help the Soldiers do that.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 31

Women’s History Month observance

By Ms. Ericka Norris 108th Training Command (IET) G1

CHARLOTTE, N.C.— On Mar. 18, the 108th Training Command (IET) hosted a Women’s History Month observance program. The theme of the 2012 program was “Women’s Education and Women’s Empowerment.” Master Sgt. Moann Benson, equal opportunity advisor for the 108th, hopes the program will impact the The “Star Spangled Girls” of the Touring Theater of North command in a positive way and Carolina pose prior to their performance at a Women’s Histoprovide insight to those who atry Month observance hosted by the 108th Training Division Members of the Touring Theater of North Carolina perform during a tended.

(IET) on Mar. 18. Photos by Lt. Col. Christopher Black, 108th Women’s History Month observance hosted by the 108th Training DiThe program recognized that Training Division (IET) Public Affairs vision (IET) on Mar. 18. Photos by Lt. Col. Chriswomen who served not only topher Black, 108th Training Division (IET) Public broke down barriers in the miliAffairs tary but also went on to become opportunity to serve our nation’s successful in other fields. Taking PipelineNC is much more than a typical job board, placement service or resume posting site...it is an military with the creation of the the time to acknowledge women’s innovative web-based talent management solution that drives an entirely new level of collaboration Army and Navy Nurse Corps in roles and contributions to the miliamong businesses, educators and job seekers. Register today and receive free access to: 1901. However, it wasn’t until the tary is important to Benson.“Be• Career, Skills and Job Matching Technology establishment of the Women’s Army cause of the growing number of • Digital Portfolios and Live Resumes females in the branch, we play a big Corps (WAC) in 1942 that women • Round-the-Clock Automated Recruiting other than nurses were allowed role in the military,” she said. “The • Advanced Employer Search Capabilities purpose of this event is to highlight to serve within the Army. Over • Direct Access to Employers and Communities 150,000 American women served the lives and times of women in • Discussion Boards and e-Mentoring in the WAC during WW II. WW II.” • Social Media Integration and Industry Pages Master Sgt. Becky Davis was a The performance consisted of part of the WAC in 1975 and could an ensemble cast from the Touridentify with the characters in the ing Theater of North Carolina. The performance. She experienced “Star Spangled Girls” provided a 910.808.4669 firsthand some of disparities that detailed look of the women who PIPELINENC@BRACRTF.COM served in WW II. The five actresses were present between male and fegave the audience a glance of what male Soldiers.“When you first came into the military, we were limited is was like to be a woman in the in what MOS we could go into,” military during WW II. Each of the said Davis. Davis joined the Army actresses gave an account of difthrough the WAC in April 1974. ferent experiences in the various Today, the Army is much different branches of the service. They told from when Davis joined.“We were stories of real women that served Pinnacle Pointe Behavioral not required to fire weapons; we and the challenges they faced. The HealthCare System has been had classes like etiquette, personal program also provided a historiawarded the Governor’s Quality hygiene,” she added. Women concal walk-through of women in the Award for Excellence- Achievement tinued to serve in the WAC until the Armed Forces throughout history.

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From the 95th Division Commander...

Brig. Gen. A. Ray Royalty Commanding General 95th Training Division (IET)

Soldiers and Warriors of the 95th

Training Division — hooah — trust this finds each and everyone working the mission hard — taking down 25-meter targets while prepping for the 300-meter targets.The past couple months have brought — and continues to bring — unforeseen challenges and opportunities across our formation. We — individually and collectively — must stand ready — mentally, physically, medically, administratively, and spiritually to support incoming 108th Training Command directed missions without failure. Being prepared to execute a mission on behalf of the American people is the calling of the Army Reserve — no excuses, no room for slackers — period.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Col. Rudy Villarreal for his dedicated service to this division over the years and most

especially, for his outstanding leadership while serving as the commander, 1st Brigade. Col. Villarreal’s “can do” attitude is visibly apparent wherever he serves. Without exception, Col. Villarreal is a true warrior consistently focused on mission accomplishment and living the Army values. I am also extremely confident in the abilities of Col. Frank Curtis taking the 1st Brigade colors in a recent change of command ceremony. Col. Curtis is a true warrior that complements the division’s mission and long term vision without missing a beat.The division is fortunate to have the leadership represented by both Col. Villarreal and Col. Curtis. Meantime, the 1st Brigade formation during the change of command ceremony continues to represent the true characteristics of the Soldiers within the brigade — professional, ready

to execute, and a willingness to do things right. And Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill is certainly in the fight providing both insight to the commander and outstanding leadership across the brigade.

Over the past couple weeks the 4th Brigade has also witnessed the passing of colors between Col. John Zenkovich and Col. Lou Long. Col. Zenkovich has effectively maintained the brigade’s momentum through outstanding leadership, mission focus, and utmost dedication in a time of constant change.

Col. Zenkovich’s service with the 4th Brigade and this division is sincerely appreciated. In a recent meeting with the 198th Infantry Training Brigade, Fort Benning, Ga., Col. Long’s dedication to the mission was apparent and well received by the INOSUT community. Col. Long comes to the 4th Brigade with a number of relevant experiences that will serve the 4th Brigade and this division in a most excellent manner.The 4th Brigade continues to retain the highest number of infantry drill sergeants within the Army Reserve – a critical component to successful training at Fort Benning.

In a recent visit to the Human Resources Command (HRC), Fort Knox, I had the opportunity to work with various staff elements that offered greater insight to intricate details related to procedures, policies, and practices related to promotion activities. While having the opportunity to compare a spectrum of promotion files that HRC is accustomed to receiving, there was an apparent need for better preparation of individual files submitted by Soldiers in general.

While I recognize the challenges that face all Army Reserve Soldiers — to include myself — the absence of a DA photo and an updated ERB/ ORB sends a clear message that one’s interest in a promotion is lacking. Royalty’s advice to anyone that serves in our ranks — the DA photo and ERB/ORB — while not a guarantee of promotion obviously — is that first impression that just might be the deciding factor in the end. Meantime, for those who have consistently and deliberately stayed current — most excellent.

In closing, I look forward to continue getting out and meeting the dedicated Soldiers and warriors of the 95th Training Division — and the opportunity to continue serving with great Americans. Be prepared for ongoing and different incoming challenges in the near term — but remember — this division remains positioned to overcome and adapt. Stand ready to march on short notice — always. The “Victory Division” has an extensive history of taking on overwhelming challenges with utmost distinction.

To all — Godspeed — charlie mike — meet you on the objective.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 33

From the 104th Division Commander...

Why competition improves Army Units

Brig. Gen. Kurt Hardin Commanding General 104th Training Division (LT)

The 104th Division finished their Best Warrior Competition at West Point on Apr. 20 and the division came out the winner. 25 Soldiers from 14 battalions and the division headquarters competed for

the honor of Best Soldier of the Benning this past April. Maj. Jim Kei- er Challenge. Jim and Kent Keirsey Year and Best NCO of the Year. Staff rsey and Capt. Kent Keirsey entered began their journey by asking one Sgt. Brown won the 104th Divithe competition as a two-man team question: can we do this and will sion NCO of the Year award and and finished 24th out of 50 teams the Army let us compete? The anSpc. Olsen won the Soldier of the in the competition.Their experiswer is leading to an improved caYear award but it was pability in the 104th “Each of these Soldiers will take this learning through teamwork. Spc. Division and Cadet Olsen, in his accepCommand. tance speech, talked How can units experience back to their unit to help Soldiers about Soldiers working and Soldiers adtogether and helping dress the competiimprove their Warrior skills. Working together each other in the varition challenge every ous events.This camain a competition makes each competitor stronger day? Look for opraderie among comportunities during petitors shows one of to challenge individually and lifts the team to a higher level than training the strengths in our each other through military. Each of these friendly competition. working individually.”

Soldiers will take this Find someone close learning experience to your abilities and — Brig. Gen. Kurt Hardin back to their unit to challenge them in help Soldiers improve the next APFT, AWQ, their Warrior skills. Working togethence in the Best Ranger competior other training event. Competing er in a competition makes each tion will make them better Soldiers against each other will lift everycompetitor stronger individually but also improve their units. Capt. one to new heights, improve moand lifts the team to a higher level Keirsey is an SROTC instructor in rale, and push the unit to achieve than working individually. the 4-414th Battalion and his expemore collectively than as individuThis became evident during the rience will translate skill sets to the als. We all win when friendly comrecent 29th annual David E. Grange cadets and assist with their prepara- petition becomes part of our daily Best Ranger Competition at Fort tions for the USACC Regional Rang- training life.

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34 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2012

Command Sgt. Major Paul Hillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s command photo which hangs in the battalion area.

Courtesy Photo

Name, Rank and Unit: Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Hill, 1st Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) Military Occupation: Command Sergeant Major Civilian Occupation: Oklahoma Highway Patrol State Trooper When and why did you join the Army Reserve?

I served on active duty from 1975 to 1978, serving on a Pershing missile crew in Ulm, Germany.

I then spent three years in the Inactive Ready Reserve. I was going to church with a couple in Shawnee, Okla. who were both drill sergeants, and it sounded like something I would like to do. So I joined the Army Reserve in 1987, specifically the 95th, so I could serve as a drill sergeant. I was a specialist when I left active duty, but when I joined the Reserve, they made me

Trooper Paul Hill inspects a tractor-trailer hauling oversized equipment to ensure it meets safety requirements to be road worthy in the state of Oklahoma. Courtesy Photo

a Pfc. again. My first drill I was promoted to Spc. and the second drill I was promoted to Sgt. Then I became a drill sergeant.

Have you been deployed?

I served in Afghanistan with Detachment 53, 95th Training Division (IET), from 2008 to 2009 mentoring the Afghan National Army.

What has been the highlight of your Army career?

I really enjoyed being a drill sergeant leader and instructor of drill sergeants as well as the commandant of the 95th Drill Sergeant School. (Note:The Drill Sergeant School was transferred to the 108th in 2008 and has since transferred to the Active Component)

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Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a state trooper. I bet youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve experienced some tense moments in that job? Can you share one with us?

I currently work in size and weights. A few months ago, I stopped a dump truck that appeared to be overweight. The driver of the vehicle was angry with me for stopping him. While I was inspecting his truck, he was on his cell phone. A few minutes later, my supervisor called me to ask me where I was. He informed me that the man I had stopped in the field had just called the highway patrol office to advise that if I gave him a ticket he was going to kill me. They showed up and arrested the man for threatening a trooper. I ticketed him.

What do you think is an important characteristic of a trooper?

It requires a lot of situational awareness. When I joined the Oklahoma Highway Patrol 22 years ago, my instructor, Lt. Shane Slovacek, gave me a card with a list of survival concepts. I still carry it with me today and pull it out occasionally to reflect upon those principles.

Any examples?

I once stopped a man who was speeding wildly. I could tell he was upset about something. I asked him what was going on with him and I listened to his problems. Later I learned that the guy and I had a mutual acquaintance. My friend told me that the man I had stopped for speeding was on his way to kill himself that night, but changed his mind after he was stopped by me and I gave him my time and listened to him. Sometimes people just need someone to talk to.

Do you have any lighthearted stories about being a trooper?

I stopped by a local pharmacy while in uniform to pick up a prescription. When I arrived at the counter, the pharmacy tech handed me a box. I asked,â&#x20AC;&#x153;What do you want me to do with this?â&#x20AC;? The tech looked at me and said,â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not UPS [United Parcel Service].â&#x20AC;?

If you had to name one, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most important principle?

Anticipate danger.

Any final thoughts to share?

I love the military. And I constantly try to recruit. Even on traffic stops. I use it as an opportunity to let people know they have something more available to help them turn their lives around, if they need it.

What do you think is the best thing about being a trooper?

I get the most satisfaction out of helping people in need.

NOTE: Please send contact information for a Soldier in your unit that you would like to see profiled to jennifer.k.cotten@usar.army.mil.

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 35

Historic setting for a new page in history

By Sgt 1st Class Lisa M Litchfield 104th Training Division (LT) Public Affairs

WEST POINT, N.Y. — Lt. Col. Daniel Cloyd assumed command of the 1st Battalion, 391st Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT) from Lt. Col. (P) Jennifer Ryan at the United States Military Academy on Friday, Apr. 20.

Ryan, who is currently attending the Army War College, chose West Point as the location for her change of command and subsequent promotion for deeply personal reasons.

“I appreciate you all coming out to celebrate this change of command at the incredibly historic United States Military Academy, West Point,” Ryan said.

“It has been the host of our Division Best Warrior Competition this week – where the best of the best have given it their all this week. It holds a special meaning for me, since my husband, Mike graduated here in 1988; I also feel honored to have worked here for thirty days with Dr. Jim Loy’s Plans and Resources team in 2009; and Alpha Company has the R-day mission here receiving the new cadets.

So this is a perfect setting for this event,” she explained.

Ryan went on to commend her Soldiers for their high standards and professionalism and express how much she would miss them as she began her new “desk job” which would keep her out of the field and off the training lanes although she plans to “finagle her way into training with Soldiers somehow.”

Brigade commander, Col. Antonio Morales, presided over the ceremony, and passing the unit colors from Lt. Col. Ryan to Lt. Col. Cloyd before it was handed to Command Sgt.

Members of the 1st Battalion, 391st Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 104th Training Division (LT) take their places in representation of the battalion’s units during the Apr. 20 change of command ceremony at Trophy Point Amphitheater, United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. Photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M Litchfield, PAO, 104th Training Division

Maj. Sanborn for safekeeping.

Coming from a five-year stretch with the 4th Battalion, 415th Regiment, Cloyd shared his first remarks with them.

“You have been my military family over the last five years. We had great times together and so it makes departing bittersweet,” he commented.

Cloyd then went on to thanks his wife and daughters before turning his attention to his new “family.”

“Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 391st Regiment, it was a whirlwind tour last week visiting you in New York, New Jersey, Maine, and Vermont.Thank you for your hospitality,” he began.“I am looking forward to working with you as we train and support the Army’s future leaders. As our motto states:‘We will always win!’”

A graduate of Xavier University Cloyd has deployed to Germany, the Balkans, and most recently, Iraq.

His many military schools, achievements and courses as well as his time as an associate professor of military sciences have led him to this place where he will have a direct impact on training the future leaders of the Army.

Lt. Col. Daniel Cloyd assumed command from Lt. Col (P) Jennifer Ryan during the ceremony which took place at the conclusion of the 104th Training Division (LT) Best Warrior competition also held at West Point. Photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Lisa M Litchfield, PAO, 104th Training Division

The 1/391 is responsible for five units across four states and is tasked with training cadets across the United States.

36 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Command Safety Office...

Work safe, play safe this summer!

The 101 days of the summer are upon us, starting with Memorial Day and ending with Labor Day. The summer months are traditionally some of the most dangerous months of the year due to increased travel on the highways for the holidays, vacations, and family functions. Every summer, the Army Reserve loses Soldiers to accident s related to vehicles, weapons, water activities and alcohol. As you and your families engage in summer activities please remember to include safety in your summer plans.

Everyone deserved to enjoy some time off.The summer months are filled with both on- and off-duty activities. Knowing the related risks and knowing what to do before you head out to have fun will help you to mitigate your risk and enable you to have an accident free summer. Remember, risk management should be applied to all activities on- or off-duty. The Command Safety Office has published a Summer Safety Guide to assist you in applying Composite Risk Management in all your summer time activities.The guide is located on the 108th Training Command Safety AKO page in the Spring/Summer Campaign folder (https://www. us.army.mil/suite/page/643756).

Implementing Composite Risk Management techniques into your summer activities will help keep

you and your family safe this summer. In addition, the U.S. Combat Readiness Center web site provides a wealth of information related to participating in summer activities safely this summer (https://safety. army.mil).

Whether it is driving a car, riding a motorcycle, enjoying water sports or any outdoor activity, being well trained and aware of risks before you start an activity is essential.

Use the approved equipment and required protective gear when you participate in activities. Be respectful of the activity you are involved in. Understand that one careless act on your part could have long lasting consequences for you and possibly others.

Motorcycles are powerful machines.These machines must be ridden with the utmost respect.

Ensure that you have attended the proper training classes (Army Reserve Funded) and that you and your riders wear the required personal protective gear. If, you are a motorcycle operator or plan to be this summer, ensure you get the necessary training before you start riding. Coordinate with your unit commander, Division Safety Office or call the Command Safety Office at 704-342-5152 to find out how to sign-up for Army Reserve funded mandatory basic motorcycle safety training in your area.

All Soldiers who travel a distance greater than 50 miles must complete a trips plan on the Travel Risk Planning System (TRiPS) and provide a copy of the results to their commander/supervisor prior to departing on orders or commuting to Battle Assembly.TRiPS is a mandatory program that addresses the hazards associated with POV/POM travel and also provides recommendations to Soldiers and commanders on ways to manage and reduce risk. TRiPS is available online from the U.S. Combat Readiness Center (CRC) web site (https://safety.army. mil). As you plan your summer travels, incorporate TRiPs into your pretrip packing list of things to do to ensure a safe family journey.

Privately own vehicles (POV) and privately own motorcycles (POM) accidents continue to be the leading cause of off-duty fatalities in the command and Army Reserve. Failure to wear seat belts, maintain situational awareness, avoid distracted driving and adjust speed to condi-

tions is identified as the leading causes of fatal accidents. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs contributed to a high percentage of these losses. Remember to wear your seat belt, drive the posted speed limit, avoid texting or talking on your cell phone while driving, and never drink and drive.The life you save may be your own.

The hot weather of summer is a potential risky. Protect yourself, your family, and your friends from heat by modifying and adjusting work and activities schedules to avoid the hottest times of the day.

Drink plenty of water and take breaks frequently as the thermometer rises. Use common sense and keep cool. Avoid strenuous physical activities, especially in the heat of the mid-day sun. Remember to wear appropriate clothing the cover-up exposed skin and apply sunscreen liberally to avoid sunburn.

“Work Safe”“Play Safety” and have an enjoyable summer.

Combat Lifesaver Training

Drill sergeants experience realism during their annual combat lifesaver training. 1st Sgt. William Ingalls applies a tourniquet to the left leg of a life-like mannequin while Sgt. Todd Stremmel checks the airway and monitors responsiveness. Photos by Lt. Col. Brenda L. Ver Voort, Battalion Commander, 3-334th Regiment 4th Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET)

By Lt. Col. Brenda L. Ver Voort Battalion Commander, 3-334th Regiment 4th Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET)

FORT MCCOY Wis. — Drill sergeants with the 3-334th Regiment, 4th Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET) conducted combat lifesaver training Apr. 12-15, at the Medical Simulation Training Center, Fort McCoy, Wis. This 40-hour course is designed for non-medical personnel to gain basic medical knowledge to save wounded Soldiers on the battlefield, an annual training requirement for drill sergeants.

During the course, the drill sergeants were trained to provide immediate care on how to stop severe bleeding, recognize and treat for shock, manage the airway, and perform needle chest decompression for a casualty with tension pneumothorax (the presence of air or gas in the pleural cavity).

The training involved three scenarios of hands-on training and skill testing with life-like mannequins programmed to simulate breathing and bleeding.The training allowed the Soldiers to take and record vital signs such as pulse, respiration and blood pressure.

THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ 37

Chaplains Corner...

Grace upon Grace

By Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Robert F. Searle 98th Training Division (IET)

Chaplain Gore and Chaplain Tang have invited me to reflect upon my experience as I near the end of my five-year tenure as the 98th Division chaplain on Sept. 1, 2012. I appreciate this invitation as it provides me an opportunity to talk about a ministry which I have loved dearly and have felt called to remain faithful to for over 20 years.

When I first learned that the 98th Training Division was going to transform from a northeastern to an eastern seaboard unit, I wondered how we could ever minister to our Soldiers and their families with the resources we had at the time. How does the UMT identify the needs of Soldiers and minister to them in a timely way?

Clearly, the previous understanding of chaplainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ministry would not work in our geographically expanded footprint.

We had to find a way to go into a unit, quickly ascertain any potential issues, and perform or provide the necessary ministry before issues became life debilitating problems.

Because I had been ministering to veterans in different VA Medical Hospitals, I was aware of a spiri-

tual assessment tool administered to veterans when they were in the hospital. Proven to be clinically reliable, I thought, we could perhaps use this assessment in the Army Reserve. Why wait until a Soldier went to a VA Hospital to receive the help he/she needs?

This thought put me on a quest to find the author of this assessment and to adapt it to the military.

I found Chaplain Garland Vance at the VA Hospital in Asheville, N.C.; he was excited about this possibility. He gave initial training on the spiritual assessment which we have modified over the years to meet our unitsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs, especially with the number of deployments we have experienced. Because of its effectiveness within the 98th Division, we invited Chaplain Vance to provide two additional training events on the implementation and interpretation of the assessment along with the best way to use its insights to minister to our Soldiers.

Thanks to the permission of several of my commanders, we were given the green light to use this assessment with our Soldiers. Among the commanders, Col. Fallen of our former 7th Brigade was the first

commander to give me permission to use the spiritual assessment. The assessment was a success; Soldiers not only answered the questions on the assessment but also talked about their experiences. The assessment provided a means to enter into the Soldiersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hearts and helped the UMTs know about their struggles, their hopes, and fears. As a result, my ensuing commanders continued to encourage its use, including the former division commander and now our current 108th Training Command commanding general, Maj. Gen. Stall.

Besides the assessment, there was also the need to provide some sort of training which prepared Soldiers and their families for the effects of deployment. Fortunately, AMEDD had developed a series of presentations which examines the dynamics of deployment from beginning to end. These presentations prepare Soldiers and their families for departure, separation, and reunion. Known as resiliency training, it gives Soldiers and their families ways to cope and bounce back from their difficult experiences. All the UMTs of the 98th Division have been instructed in these presentations which are periodically briefed in our units.

No doubt, the most challenging and fulfilling expectation has been Strong Bonds. Five years ago, we submitted our own contracts and provided our own training. Recently, the RSCs have taken over much of the logistical responsibilities.

However, each brigade still offers its own singles, married, and family Strong Bonds programs. These retreats give the UMTs unique opportunities to know and minister to their Soldiers, build esprit dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; corps, and enhance morale. The SB trained UMTs are encouraged to keep these life changing experiences alive through providing ways to bring the singles, married, and families together again and to renew their commitment to life changing communication skills.

Taken together, spiritual assessment, resiliency training, and Strong Bonds provide commanders, their Soldiers, and families an invaluable package of resources to positively impact their well-being. Of course, each brigade UMT implements these resources through their own unique personalities and gifts.

It has been a privilege to share ministry with the very best chaplains, chaplain candidates, and chaplain assistants the Army Reserve chaplaincy has to offer. They have made a significant difference in the lives of hundreds of people through their dedication and hard work.

Special appreciation goes to Chaplain Gore, the 108th Training Command chaplain, who has allowed me to follow my call in ministry to our Soldiers and their families.

And, of course, I want to thank my Lord for His call to this ministry and for the grace to fulfill it.

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38 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

G1 Nugget 108th Training Command (IET) G-1 Conference a Huge Success “It’s about taking care of Soldiers” — One of Maj. Gen. Stall’s top priorities was the theme of the 108th Training Command’s G-1 conference. Subject matter experts from the training command were excited to share their knowledge and equip employees at all levels to best serve our Soldiers in the critical area of readiness.

The timing of the conference could not have been any better — it followed on the heels of the Stall’s Command Readiness Review in which topics such as medical readiness and drill sergeant production were discussed in great detail.

This was communicated to all attendees, as well as their critical role in the success of the command’s readiness.

The G-1 conference was successful for several reasons. One of the main victories of the conference was that subject matter experts were able to coach, mentor and train employees through the lowest level of the command. Of the 200 plus attendees, 60 percent of the audience was battalion level or lower, with 35 percent of the audience being unit administrators.

The value of the conference was also noted by the tenure of the audience – 30 percent of the audience reported being in their duty position less than one year while over 50 percent of the audience reported being in their position for less than two years.

Ms. Christine Borchert was pleased with the conference.“I’ve been a unit administrator for over 10 years and yet I continue to gain additional knowledge from these conferences. I loved having the opportunity to choose which sessions I attended.The customer service tables were outstanding and the 108th provided me one-on-one consultations and coaching.This conference has been the absolute best network experience that I have encountered within the command.”

The conference included a diverse package of coaching, mentoring and training in an attempt to best serve its customers. It included a mixture of both general sessions and breakout sessions.The benefit of the breakout sessions was that each attendee could tailor their schedule to which sessions were most pertinent to their individual job and responsibilities. Other offerings included customer service tables in which members of the G-1 team were available to coach attendees with specific issues.

The training was not limited to G-1 but included budgeting as well as retention; duties that often fall within the responsibilities of human resource specialists in the lower levels of the command.

“What a productive conference,” noted Lt. Col.Young, 98th Training

Division (IET) G-1.“On behalf of my division, I am thankful for the partnership, support and training that the command G-1 has offered. Col. Harris and his staff eagerly shared their knowledge with all levels of the command which helps contribute to our overall success.”

G2 Nugget Personnel Security FAQs Q: I’ve never had a security clearance. Can I request one?

A:Yes. Currently, all Soldiers

ondary or additional) that requires a TS will maintain that TS. After 5 years, the TS will downgrade to Secret and the Soldier will not be fully MOSQ. Q: I have an SMOS or AMOS that requires a Top Secret clearance. My PMOS and Duty MOS don’t require any security clearance. Do I still need to maintain a TS clearance?

A:Yes. You must hold the highest clearance for any MOS that you have been awarded, even if it is not your duty or primary MOS. Q: I’ve been offered an opportuni-

Soldier’s

Gold Mine Nuggets to keep you informed must have a background investigation before the end of FY13.

Q: I’m not sure if I have a security clearance. Where do I look to check this?

A: Go to the HRC web page at https://www.hrc.army.mil. On the right, select the My Records under Soldier Services. You’ll need your CAC Card at this point. Once there, select Reserve Record. The main page for your record will show an investigation type and date.

Q: How do I request a security clearance?

A: First, complete a SF86, Personnel Security Questionnaire. You can find one on Google. Remember to go back a full 10 years for Employment History and Residences. Second, bring or scan the completed SF86 to your Security Manager.

Once reviewed for completion, you’ll receive an email from the Personnel Security Investigations Portal Center of Excellence (PSIP COE). They will take care of the rest. PLEASE NOTE: Once the PSIPCOE opens the e-QIP portal, you will have five days to enter your SF86 information.

Q: I’ve heard that my security clearance is good for 15 years from the date it was granted. Is his true?

A: No. (If granted) Your eligibility for Secret will be good for 10 years from the date that the Investigation Closed.

Q: I was granted a Top Secret security clearance when I was in Iraq.

It is now 5 years old. Can I request that it be renewed?

A: Only Soldier’s who currently hold an MOS (either Primary, sec-

ty to mobilize, but the gaining organization (for example the Pentagon) wants me to have a Top Secret Clearance. Can I get that started now?

A: No, at least not by the Army Reserve. The gaining organization must be the bill-payer for that investigation. Ask them if they can initiate it.

G4 Nugget Army Reserve Army Service Uniform (ASU) Beginning 1 Oct. 2011 all enlisted Soldiers will transition from the Army Green Class A to the Blue Army Service Uniform (ASU) for TPU enlisted Soldiers.This has been an ongoing battle to get Soldiers to the supply sergeants to place their orders for their ASU. All enlisted Soldiers need to be sized prior to ordering their ASU. Supply sergeants will place the orders through KYLOC. Normal turnaround is 10 – 14 days for shipment of the order.

Since October 2011 the Army Reserve has only seen 9% of the Soldiers place their orders in KYLOC. The transition to the ASU is open to all enlisted Soldiers.The mandatory possession date is early FY 16.

Soldiers will still need the green uniform until their ASU issue comes in.There has never been a stop on issuing the green uniform. Soldiers without the green uniform and have not placed their ASU order will be without a dress uniform.

AGR enlisted Soldiers will receive an annual clothing allowance for their ASU. Soldiers mobilized on orders over 365 days will also receive the portion on their one-year

mobilization anniversary. Soldiers mobilized for less than 365 days should continue to be treated as TPU Soldiers. Officers will continue to purchase uniforms at their own expense.

We would like to place emphasis on this and encourage all enlisted Soldiers to get with their supply sergeants and place their order for the new blue ASU.This is the Soldiers responsibility to ensure that they have placed their order for the ASUs.

G6 Nugget Don’t be a Money Mule “Money mules” are people who are used to transport and launder stolen money or some kind of merchandise. Criminals may even recruit money mules to use stolen credit card information.

Many money mules are not aware that they are being used to commit fraud.The individuals being used as money mules are not the only victims; the larger scheme is designed to extract money from an organization or from other people.

The most common money mule solicitations are disguised as “work from home” opportunities.These advertisements often target unsuspecting people who are interested in the convenience and flexibility of these types of jobs. Because there are companies that legitimately offer opportunities to work from home, users may not recognize malicious offers. Criminals often try to make the offer seem as legitimate as possible and may use the following approaches: • Carefully crafting the wording so that an email does not appear to be spam and is not caught by spam filters • Linking to fake but professionally designed websites that appear to belong to recognized companies or that promote a company that does not even exist • Posting some of these jobs on legitimate websites, including websites specifically for job seekers After an individual agrees to be a money mule, the schemes tend to follow a similar process: The “company” collects information from the “employee.”The information may include personal data such as the individual’s Social Security number and bank account information.The company may also ask the employee to sign a seemingly official contract.

The company (or the employee, under the direction of the company) creates a financial account that the employee can use to collect and transfer funds.

The employee receives funds or some type of merchandise.

The employee is instructed to transfer the funds (usually keeping some percentage) to some other financial account or to deliver the

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 39

merchandise to some third party.This financial account or third party is associated with the criminal. Often, the company will instruct the employee to use wire transfers for the funds, and there may be another money mule on the other end of the transfer with instructions to cash those funds.

These accounts are typically established at a bank or through a service such as PayPal. Through this process, the criminal receives the stolen money or merchandise while hiding his or her involvement.Typically, a criminal will only use a money mule once. After the money mule performs his or her role in the transaction, the criminal usually dissolves the relationship completely and recruits someone else for the next scheme.The following are potential consequences for money mules: Inaccessible bank accounts — During an investigation, law enforcement officials may freeze a money mule’s bank accounts. Being unable to access funds may create a significant financial burden.These activities may also have a long-term impact on credit scores.

Prosecution— Money mules may be prosecuted for their participation in these schemes.

Accountability for charges — In some cases, money mules are found personally responsible for repaying the losses suffered by the other victims.

Vulnerability of personal information — As described in the typical process, criminals often collect personal information from the money mules. It is possible that the criminals may use this information for other malicious purposes.

If an opportunity sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Look for common warning signs, and do some research before agreeing to participate. If you believe that you are participating in a money mule scheme, stop transferring money and merchandise immediately and notify the appropriate authorities.

These authorities may include your bank, the service you used to conduct the transaction, and law enforcement.

G7 Nugget The United States Army Sergeants Major Academy has a published a course catalog for the Structured Self-Development (SSD) course.

The catalog contains information for each level of the SSD course to include modules and tasks associated with each module. You will also find instructions for self-registration if you don’t get automatically en-

rolled. Point of contact information is also listed for each level of the SSD course. To enroll, visit the Self-Development Center https://www. atrrs.army.mil/selfdevctr/ to complete an application. Links to the center are also available from: 1. Army Knowledge Online (Select My Training from the Self Service Menu, then select Take SelfDevelopment Courses from the ATRRS Student Center), or from the 2. ATRRS Homepage (Select Army from the Channels directory, and then click Self-Development).

For further instructions please visit the G7 web site at https://www.us.army.mil/suite/ page/593383 Listed below are a few excerpts from Alaract message 288/2010 Structured Self-Development (SSD)

governance: Implementation of SSD policy.

SSD I. Soldiers will be enrolled in SSD I automatically upon completing BCT/OSUT. Beginning FY13, Soldier’s must complete SSD 1 prior to attending WLC. Those soldiers (PVT - SPC) who completed BCT/OSUT, but not WLC, prior to 1 SEP 10 will b e automatically enrolled by 1 JAN 12.

SSD II DOES NOT EXIST!!!

There is no SSD between WLC and

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ALC. SSD III. Effective 1 JAN 11, all SGT’s and SSG’s who are graduates of ALC or BNCOC will be automatically enrolled in SSD III. SGT’s (p), SSG’s and SFC’s will be enrolled in SSD III automatically upon completion of all phases of ALC. SSD IV. Effective 1 JAN 11, SSG’s (p), SFC’s, and MSG’s will be enrolled automatically into SSD IV upon completion of SLC. Effective 1 JAN 13, completion of SSD IV is a prerequisite for attendance to SMC. SSD V. Effective 1 MAY 11, MSGs (p) and SGMs will be enrolled automatically into SSD V upon completion of Sergeant Major course or its equivalent. Beginning 1 MAY 13, completion of SSD V is a prerequisite to be considered for nominative and joint assignments.

Also, USARC has published a memo titled “Interim Guidance for Utilizing Additional Training Assemblies (ATAs) for Electronic Based Distributed Learning (EBDL) Courses”. Army Directive 2010-06, in compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), authorized compensation for the successful completion of electronic based distributed learning coursework. Per AR 140-1 commanders may use ATAs to allow Soldiers to complete EBDL courses. You can find this memo on the G7 website at https://www.us.army.mil/suite/ page/593383.

OES/NCOES: For information regarding Basic Officer and Warrant Officer requirements refer to table 7-1, DA PAM 600-3, dated 1 see NUGGETS page 40

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One coupon per rental. An advance reservation is required. May not be used in conjunction with any other coupon, promotion or offer except your Leisure Pass discount. Coupon valid at participating Avis locations in the contiguous U.S. and Canada. Offer subject to vehicle availability at time of reservation and may not be available on some rates at some times. For reservations made on avis.com, dollars off will be applied at time of rental. Renter must meet Avis age, driver and credit requirements. Minimum age may vary by location. An additional daily surcharge may apply for renters under 25 years old. Rental must begin by 12/31/12.

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40 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

NUGGETS Continued from page 39

Feb 2010 and AR 135-155, dated 13 Jul 2004 and DA memo 600-4 date 9 Feb 04 are useful. For information regarding NCO education requirements refer to AR 600-8-19, para 1-27 rapid action revision dated 27 Dec 2012.

Family Programs

By Mrs. Paddee Muncy 95th DIV FRSA

I’d like to take a few minutes of your time to introduce myself.

My name is Paddee Muncy and I am the FRSA for the 95th Division. I am an Army “Brat” and have been around the Army all my life. I joined right after high school on the active side and then changed to the Reserves 3 ½ years later. I have 3 daughters, Megan -23, Amanda 18, and Sarah -16 and one grandson, Lucas who is 4 years old.

During my military career, I have always worked in the Administrative Section because I love helping Soldiers and making sure they are taken care of. This led me to become a Unit Administrator for the 3rd Battalion, 485th Regiment in Columbus, GA. I have a lot of knowledge on the administrative and finance side in addition to the resources side for our Soldiers and

Family members.

In my spare time, I volunteer with the American Red Cross here in Lawton and just became their “Fundraising Chairperson” and work as a Disaster Assistance Team member who goes out when there is a single/multiple family fire; set up shelters and/or set up canteens for the wildfires we get here in Oklahoma. In addition to this, I am a Mother Advisor for the International Order of Rainbow for Girls which is a fraternal organization and is a part of the Masonic Lodge.

I’ve been active with this organization since I was a teen and still enjoy the friends I have met through the years.

If you ever need assistance, or just an ear to listen, send me an email. I am ready and willing to help in any way necessary.

Email: patricia.l.muncy@usar. army.mil (Article correction from Spring 2012 edition.)

Internal Review U.S. Army Reserves Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United States Related to Contracting in Support of Iraq War Defendant Accepted $20,500 Related to the Processing of

BoƩled Water Invoices in Kuwait WASHINGTON — A sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States for receiving money from a local contractor in return for preferentially processing its invoices for payment outside of the proper procedures and protocols, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

Sergeant Amasha M. King, 33, of Forsyth, Ga., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Marc T.Treadwell in Macon, Ga., to criminal information charging her with one count of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

According to the court documents filed in the Middle District of Georgia, Sergeant King served at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, from November 2004 to February 2006, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the 374th Finance Battalion.

While in Kuwait, King was responsible for receiving and processing pay vouchers and invoices from military contractors for various contracts and blanket purchase agreements (BPAs), including BPAs for bottled potable water. A BPA is a type of contract by which the DoD agrees to pay a contractor a specified price for a particular good or service. With King’s approval, the contractors were paid from the

finance battalion, and in some instances, King was responsible for the issuance of U.S. government checks to those contractors.

According to the court documents, King agreed to receive money from a military contractor in return for defrauding the United States by preferentially processing the contractor’s invoices outside of the proper procedures and protocols for payment.This allowed the contractor to be paid much faster than usual and ultimately to bid for more contracts than it otherwise could have financed.

Sergeant King admitted that she received four wire transfers totaling approximately $20,500. King admitted that she instructed the contractor to wire the money to designees in the United States and to keep the amounts under $10,000 in order to avoid bank reporting requirements.

King faces up to five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of the criminally derived property she received. In addition, King has agreed to pay $20,500 in restitution to the United States. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled by the court.

This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Mark W. Pletcher of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.The case is being investigated by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the FBI,

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 41

the Internal Revenue Service, the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.

Watch Your Step!

By Lori Yerdon Strategic Communication Directorate U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center, Fort Rucker, Ala.

A number of Soldiers have been killed or seriously injured in pedestrian-related accidents during recent years, and one goal of this year’s Army Safe Spring/Summer campaign is to heighten awareness of unsafe behaviors and the hazards of distracted walking.

While distracted walking may sound innocuous, Soldiers are losing their lives while participating in high-risk pedestrian activities like running with headphones or crossing multilane highways under the influence of alcohol. Even Soldiers doing the right thing have been hit by inattentive drivers at crosswalks.

“Over the course of the past five fiscal years (2007 – 2011), 37 Soldiers have died in off-duty pedestrian accidents,” said Dr. Joseph MacFadden, USACR/Safety Center Human Factors Directorate.“National statistics have shown many pedestrian accidents were a result of inattention blindness. All too often, pedestrians tend to be engaged in texting, talking on their cell phones, having a conversation with someone they are walking alongside or just not paying attention to their surroundings.”

Experts say situational awareness is a key component of pedestrian safety. Drivers may fail to yield the right of way, so pedestrians cannot assume a car will always stop to let them pass.

“Pedestrians need to walk defensively and be prepared for the unexpected,” said David Johnson, safety director at Joint Multinational Training Command.“They can prevent accidents by walking on sidewalks, crossing streets at intersections whenever possible and avoiding dangerous moves such as stepping into traffic from between parked cars.”

Johnson said drivers and pedestrians must work together.

“Drivers should keep their minds on driving and the traffic around them, including pedestrian traffic,” he said.“And pedestrians must make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are seen.”

The Army has lost many Soldiers because of senseless acts, MacFadden said, but pedestrian-related mishaps are easily preventable.

Currently, the Human Factors Directorate is working on a campaign that specifically targets pedestrian safety.The new initiative will launch in the coming months as Soldiers spend more time outdoors.

“We want Soldiers and their Fam-

ily members to always be alert when outdoors,” MacFadden said.

“The „Watch Out Walking! campaign is aimed at keeping our Soldiers, Families and Civilians safe.”

For additional Information on pedestrian safety, visit https://safety.army.mil.

Staff Judge Advocate “All the perplexities, confusion and distress in America arise, not from defects in their Constitution or Confederation, not from want of honor or virtue, so much as from the downright ignorance of the nature of coin, credit and circulation.” — John Adams It has been a long week and as you come home at the end of the day you find your mailbox is filled with bills and junk mail. As you go through the bills, the credit card statement is filled with billing mistakes for charges you know nothing about and clearly do not deserve. Among these common and often reoccurring errors are charges for the same transaction more than once and for merchandise that was returned to the seller with no credit appearing.

Alas, take the deep breath and relax (even though it is “after hours” and no one is available at the “Customer Service” number at the credit card company), there is no need to let this ruin a weekend. There is a federal law that can help you correct the problem.This law, the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) is an amendment to the Truth in Lending Act, and was designed to protect consumers from being billed for charges they do not otherwise owe.

This law only applies to what is known as “open end” credit accounts, which normally includes credit cards and “revolving charge accounts” such as “charge card” or department store accounts. This law does not apply to “installment contracts,” (e.g. purchase of vehicles, appliances, furniture or personal loans) which is a credit that is repaid on a fixed schedule.

In essence, this type of bill has an amount due that does not change.

What the FCBA does is help the consumer correct any “billing errors” on open-ended credit accounts.The types of billing errors that can be corrected with the FCBA include charges for the incorrect amounts, for services or goods that you did not receive or accept, as well as the common failure to show credits for returns of merchandise to your credit card account.

It should be noted that any disputes between yourself and a seller with the quality of the purchased goods or services are not covered under the FCBA. The FCBA also places a cap on your personal liability for any unauthorized charges on an account,

such as if your credit card or account number is stolen and purchases are charged to under your name or account. Federal law says consumers are responsible for no more than $50 of the cost of these unauthorized purchases.

The first step you should take if you find any errors on your credit card bill is to send your creditor written notification of the problem. This notice should include your name, address, account number, and a brief description of the billing error. It is also prudent to include all documentation that supports your claim. Ensure that this is sent to the address that is given for billing inquiries, which is often not the same address where payments are normally sent.

Furthermore, a creditor must receive the notice within 60 days after the error first appeared on your bill, and it is also worth the expense to send your notification of the dispute by certified mail in the event there are any questions whether the request was made timely.

Once your request is received, the creditor is obligated to resolve the dispute within 90 days or two billing cycles, whichever occurs earlier. Payments for any disputed amounts may only be withheld while the investigation is being conducted, but payments towards any undisputed amounts on the credit card statement still must be submitted.

If the creditor agrees that your bill contains an error, you should be provided with a written state-

ment that explains the corrections made to your account, and any finance charges, late fees, or other related charges arising from the error must be removed from the account.

If the credit card company insists that the bill is valid, you will then be notified in writing stating the reasoning and amount due. The amount you owe will include the disputed amount, and unfortunately any finance charges that accrued since the dispute began.

If you still disagree with the creditor, the next step is to contact them once again in writing within 10 days and explain that you refuse to pay the disputed amount.

This last step is significant, because although a the credit card company may still attempt to collect the amount from you, they are not allowed to report you to a credit bureau/credit report as being “delinquent” without also notating your position that you are not liable for the amount in dispute.

If you feel that the credit card company is refusing in bad faith to correct the error, you may want to file a complaint on-line with the Federal Trade Commission (www. ftc.gov) and with your state’s Attorney General Office. You may also have a private cause of action, but should consult with an attorney as to any fact specific issues.

Lt. Col. Bobby Don Gifford is the Staff Judge Advocate for the 95th Training Division and the Chair of the Military and Veterans Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association.

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42 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

Do you want to be a Unit Public Affairs Representative?

As the 108th Training Command (IET) continues to grow, it will be difficult for the Public Affairs Staff to visit each brigade, battalion and company to cover news events. Public Affairs is the responsibility of commanders and Soldiers alike.

The PAO is kicking off the Unit Public Affairs Program (UPAR), which will allow any Soldier to be the additional eyes and ears for your unit and the PAO. By volunteering you will assume the duties of UPAR as an ad-

ditional duty.

Do you enjoy taking pictures?

Do you enjoy writing? As a Unit Public Affairs Representative

(UPAR) you will take pictures of newsworthy events and submit them along with stories to your Division Public Affairs Officer for review and possible submission in the The Griffon, as well as your division web site.

Are You? Familiar with your organization Independent & dependable Able to communicate well

Are you able to?

Publicize unit participation in community projects or activities.

Serve as the public affairs point of contact for your unit.

Maintain contact with the 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs Office Soldiers should contact their division Public Affairs Officer for additional info: • 95th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer – Cpt. Jennifer Cotten jennifer.k.cotten@usar.army.mil • 98th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer – Maj. Edward Kuppinger edward.kuppinger@us.army. mil • 104th Training Division (IET) Public Affairs Officer – Maj. Alex Johnson alex.johnson@usar.army.mil Or contact Staff Sgt. Angie Smith at andrea.smith11@usar. army.mil, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs NCOIC or Lt. Col. Chris Black at Christopher.black@usar.army.mil, 108th Training Comamnd (IET) Public Affairs Officer or phone 704-2272820 ext. 4087 for more information.

Check out the 108th Training Command (IET) USAR website and become a fan of our Facebook page!

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 43

Support for 108th members available 108th Griffon Association, Inc. SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION Summer and Fall Semester 2012 Sponsor’s Name and Rank_________________________________________________________ [sponsor must either be an active member of the 108th Griffon Association, or any soldier assigned and serving with the 108th Training Command (IET) and subordinate Commands] 108th Association Member or Serving 108th Training Command (IET) Soldier (circle one) Sponsor’s Unit___________________________________________________________________ Application must include the following prepared by the applicant: • Cover letter [include all that apply: a list of extra curricula/community/volunteer activities, work experience (hours per week), and military experience to include SROTC/JROTC] • Copy of transcripts (high school if entering college for the first time in the fall semester or college transcripts if currently/ recently enrolled) • Three letters of recommendation from non-family members, and • On a separate sheet please answer the following questions: — What are your educational goals?

— How will achieving these goals improve your life and improve your community?

Tom Phlegar, VP of the 108th Griffon Association, presents a check for $700 to Joe Turner, Family Programs Volunteer, for sending Christmas packages to deployed 108th members.

The 108th Griffon Association is alive, well, and performing its designed mission which is to support the 108th Training Command with scholarships, social activities, and especially support for soldiers A recently deployed and returned soldier from Georgia needed financial assistance in several areas. Without hesitation, a check for $1000 was given to help this individual.This is just one type of assistance that is available throughout the command. Requests for assistance should be forwarded to Ms. Denise Wallace at command headquarters. It’s there, if needed. Just ask for it and if viable we’ll do our best to help Scholarships in the amount of $1000 for the 2012-2013 academic year are also part of the Griffon Association’s charter.These are

Applicant’s Name: ________________________________________________________________ [applicant may be a member of 108th Griffon Association; child or grandchild of a 108th Griffon Association member; soldier of the 108th Training Command (IET) to include subordinate commands; or the child of a soldier of the 108th Training Command (IET) to include subordinate Commands) SSN ___________________ Date of Birth___________________ Gender: Male or Female (circle one) Address (No P.O. Boxes):_________________________________________________________________ Telephone____________________ EMAIL: ____________________ High School ________________________________Graduation Date _________ GPA (unweighted) ________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ College(s) __________________________________________ Hours Completed_________ GPA _______ Address(es) _______________________________________________________________________ Name of College You Will Attend Using this Scholarship_____________________________________________ (You must be accepted/enrolled -- funds will be issued by the college at registration) Location (City, State)_________________________________________________________________ Application must be received NLT 15 April 2012, any application received after that date will not be considered regardless of reason.

MAIL COMPLETE APPLICATION TO: 108th Griffon Association, Inc., Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 3348, Asheboro, NC 27204

available for any active or retired member of the command and their family to include spouses, children and grandchildren. Enclosed with this article is an application format for submission.

Mark your calendars for 24 September, 2012 for the second 108th Griffon Assoc. golf tournament.This is a major fund raiser to support the mission of Please send application for membership to: the Association.

Please consider joinThe 108th Griffon Association, Inc. Post Office Box 3348 ing the 108th Griffon AsAsheboro, NC 27204 soc. Continued and new memberships is what Email: 108thgriffonassociation@triad.rr.com Web site: www.108thgriffonassoc.com will keep this organization going and growing along with a check or money order for $10.00 (one year) or $108.00 (life) (no cash please) payable to and assure continued 108th Griffon Association, Inc. Please allow six to eight weeks for your *certificate(s) to arrive at your mailing address support for our fellow soldiers and their famiPlease share this information with anyone who is eligible (to include members past and present of all subordinate unites). lies. Included with this ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -article is an application for membership. **MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 108TH GRIFFON ASSOCIATION, Inc PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION CLEARLY NEW APPLICATION

RENEWAL

LIFE TIME MEMBERSHIP $108.00

NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATES REQUESTED. PLEASE ENCLOSE AN ADDITIONAL $8.00 FOR EACH Name:_______________________________________________________ Rank:_________________ /MR/MRS/MS/MISS (as you wish it to appear on your Certificate*) (Optional) (Circle one) Address:________________________________________________________________ Phone # ( Cell phone # (

)

_____

Fax # (

_)____________________ )______________________

City:_____________________________________________ State: ______Zip code______________ EMAIL ADDRESS___________________________________________________________________________________________ (Please Print Clearly) Current or last Unit of assignment: _______________________________________________________________________ Date of service with the 108th Command Group:

From: _____________________To:__________________________ (MMYY) (MMYY)

I am willing to serve on a committee or other Association Function: YES____ NO____ I AM WILLING TO DIRECTLY SERVE WITH THE COMMAND GROUP’S FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: YES___ NO___ I would like to receive the 108th Griffon Newspaper: YES_____NO____

I wish to donate the following tax deductible amount: _$___________

Tom Phlegar presentsa check for $300 to pay the electric bill for an injured soldier.

Make check/money order payable to 108th Griffon Association, Inc. Mail to: Membership Committee, 108th Griffon Association, Inc., PO Box 3348, Asheboro, NC 27204 **Application may be duplicated * Additional certificates are available for $8.00 each.

N O I T C E S T N E M E L P P U S L A I SPEC

These Business Thank Our Soldiers For Their Service and Sacrifice

Tripp & Sons, Inc.

Snow Hill, North Carolina In appreciation for our Army Reservists deployed overseas and here at home and their Families.

INDEX MTR-Education Choices MTR-Career Choices Homeschooling Options Travel USA

45 52 54 55

Broadwell Land Company 903 Hay Street - 910-484-5193 Fayetteville, North Carolina Friends of US Military!

Builders First Source Spartanburg, SC Thank You For Your Patriotic Service!

Dare Foods, Inc. Spartanburg, SC 800-265-8255

Turbo Exchange, Inc. Concord, NC - 704-721-6661 We appreciate all your dedicated service.

Welcome Home!

Resources for the Transitioning Soldier Military Transitional Resources

www.thegriffon108.com/military-transitions.aspx BLOGS • ARTICLES • VIDEOS Career Advice Resume Tips Career Fairs Hot Jobs For Military Top Military Employers Joining Forces Info

Special Advertising Supplement

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 45

EDUCATION CHOICES

University of Mary — community and service

By Wendy Schweitzer Director of marketing University of Mary

The military might not typically be thought of as having much in common with Benedictine sisters, but they share two key values: community and service.

In 1959, the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery founded Mary College in Bismarck, N.D., with the mission of serving the people of the region. Accreditation was granted by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, in 1969 and has been held continuously.

The college began offering master’s degrees in 1986 and changed its name to University of Mary. Nine years later, the university started offering programs online, and today the University of Mary serves over 3,100 students in Bismarck; communities throughout North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Kansas, Missouri and Arizona; and across the globe.

The University of Mary is Christian, Catholic and Benedictine.

Open and welcoming to those of

all faiths, everything from advising to curriculum is rooted in the Benedictine values of community, hospitality, service, moderation, respect for persons, and prayer.These values are also embodied in the concept of “servant-leadership.”

“It’s not only our Benedictine values that set us apart from other universities, it’s how we live out those values,” explains Brenda Kaspari, vice president for enrollment services at U-Mary.“As ‘America’s Leadership University,’ we know that each student has the potential to be a leader and we encourage our students to use that leadership in a way that serves others. Many of our students who are in the military find it particularly appealing that our values and mission reflect those found in all branches of service.”

Accelerated Programs for Adult Students’ Needs Since its beginning, U-Mary has made serving adults a priority. With that experience comes a keen understanding of the unique needs of adult learners in terms of time commitment, class structure and approach. Classes are typically five

to seven weeks in length, allowing students to earn some degrees in as few as 15 months. Programs are structured in a “cohort” format, in which students learn from each other and earn their degree with a group of adult student peers. Ethical servant leadership is at the core of every degree program.

With their flexibility and attention to individual needs and goals, U-Mary’s online degrees are well suited to military and civilian careers. Five bachelor’s programs are available: • Accounting • Business with concentrations in accounting, human resources, management and marketing • Information Technology Management • Nursing • Organizational Leadership Master’s programs include: • MBA with concentrations in accountancy, energy management, executive, health care, human resource management and management • Nursing with concentrations in nurse administrator and nurse educator

• Project Management • Strategic Leadership

Adaptable Scheduling The university has gained extensive experience in helping students earn their degree while serving their country, particularly in the past decade as North Dakota has seen a large number of its military personnel deployed and through its MBA program offered on-post at Fort Riley, Kan. Processes have been developed within the school that provide comprehensive, ongoing support relative to deployment or temporary duty assignments.

“I enrolled at the University of Mary while deployed to Kosovo in support of peacekeeping operations and could not have asked for more out of a university,” says North Dakota Army National Guard 1LT Jarrod Simek, a student in the Master of Science in Strategic Leadership program.“The staff, professors and my peers were more than accommodating and were willing to work with my challenging schedule.”

The University of Mary programs see MILITARY FRIENDLY page 46

www.thegriffon108.com

46 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

MILITARY FRIENDLY Continued from page 45

have been designed for adult learners whose life responsibilities often require changes in schedule. For military personnel this means that the university can accommodate transfers between duty stations and deployment. On-site students can move to the online delivery system upon deployment. Online students can work toward their degree from anywhere Internet access is available. If deployment necessitates discontinuing the program, a student can withdraw without penalty and re-enter at a later date.

Individual Attention At the University of Mary, an academic advisor is immediately assigned to each student upon enrollment. Assistance with questions and guidance concerning programs of study, planning, policies, procedures, course registration, and completion of degree requirements are available from day one. Advisors can be contacted by telephone, email and fax throughout the course of study and work closely with faculty to identify and reconcile issues specifically related to military service.

Faculty, many of whom are leaders in their specialty and hold

master’s or doctoral degrees, are likewise available to monitor student progress, provide content assistance and address questions.The advisor-faculty team partners with each student to promote consistent communication, academic support and — most importantly — academic success.

In addition, there is a VA certifying official that works with students to insure that the correct forms are completed and all questions are answered in a timely manner, and technical assistance is available for any issues students may encounter during online courses.

Graduate Scholarships and the Yellow Ribbon Program Participant U-Mary offers graduate studies scholarships to military personnel eligible for tuition assistance through their branch of service.

And, since the Yellow Ribbon Education Enhancement Program took effect, U-Mary has provided an increased undergraduate and graduate tuition benefit to military veterans and service members that meet Veterans Administration qualifications.Through the program, U-Mary offers unlimited enrollment in both its undergraduate and graduate programs in order to serve all veterans who want to receive an education based on Christian, Catholic and

MTR-COLLEGE Benedictine values.

“For many years, the University of Mary has offered graduate study scholarships to active duty military and National Guard students, but through the Yellow Ribbon Program a U-Mary education is affordable to even more military students,” notes Kaspari.“Enabling these men and women to earn their degree for free is one small way we can thank them for their service.”

A Military Friendly School All of these things combine to make the University of Mary a “military friendly” school, with recognition including ranking among the 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 Military Advanced Education Top Military Friendly Colleges and Universities; the 2008 North Dakota Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Above and Beyond Award; and G.I. Jobs Military Friendly School status for 2010, 2011 and 2012.

For more information about the University of Mary’s military friendly programs, call 800-408-6279, ext.

8128, e-mail cade@umary.edu, or visit www.umary.edu/cade.

Wendy Schweitzer is the director of marketing at the University of Mary, her alma mater. Schweitzer has been in marketing and public relations for more than 15 years, with more than five of those years in higher education.

48 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

www.thegriffon108.com

EDUCATION CHOICES

Uni. of Nebraska — strong commitment to military The University of Nebraska has deep connections to military and veteran populations stretching back into the middle of the last century.

Many of its online programs have their roots in serving the needs of military students.

In response to the influx of GIs returning from World War II, the University of Nebraska at Omaha developed its Bachelor of General Studies degree. With liberal transfer credit policies and the ability to grant credit for non-traditional learning, such as military service

and training, the BGS is ideal for military and veteran students.

And, with the advent of technology, seven concentrations within the BGS program are available fully online.There is no need for students to set foot on campus to earn their bachelor’s degree from this highlyrespected institution.

Online BGS concentrations are: Criminology and Criminal Justice; General Administration; General Studies; Geography; Information Assurance; Information Technology; Library Science; Management

Information Systems; and Nonprofit Administration.

The university also offers bachelor degree completion programs in applied science, business administration, organizational communication, education, health professions, criminal justice, and sociology.

Online classes are especially useful for military students who may deploy, PCS, or have a variable work schedule.The university provides a flexible deployment/activation policy, ensuring students aren’t penalized if military service impacts their education progress.

Offered through the Lincoln campus, the distance MBA is also an attractive program for military and veterans.The program features a modular, 10-week schedule with rolling admission, rarely found at a traditional university.This format makes it easier for students to move quickly through their program of study or accommodate scheduling challenges that may arise.

The online Master of Business Administration program consists of 16 three credit hour courses, for a total of 48 semester hours. Students may choose from four specializations – Accounting, Agribusiness, Finance, or International Business.

In addition to offering academic programs that meet the needs of military and veteran students, the university is also committed to providing support services to ensure the success of these students.This Spring, the University of Nebraska at Omaha announced the opening of a new office dedicated to military, veterans and their families.The Military and Veteran University Services Office (MaV USO) will serve as a vital resource to students, and also features a virtual presence for those who are currently deployed or stationed elsewhere.

“The staff of MaV USO have personal ties to the military community so they understand these students and have a passion to help them in pursuing a degree,” MaV USO Director Hayley Patton said.

Additional services, including an in-processing checklist, mentoring program and workshops are also part of the office.

“Our goal is to see all military and veteran students be successful at UNO,” Patton said.

The University of Nebraska is a Yellow Ribbon and Servicemembers Opportunity College school.

For more information, visit http://online. nebraska.edu/mission.

“When I’m traveling, I can bring my laptop and can complete my work anywhere, anytime.

I like the flexibility.”

Patience Ajoff-Foster Army Spouse, Drexel University Online Student

• Drexel has no cap on the number of eligible veterans who may enroll through the Yellow Ribbon Program • 10-30% tuition reduction for service members, veterans, and military spouses • Ranked among “America’s BEST Colleges” by U.S.News & World Report • More than 100 programs available online

Drexel.com/Griffon Contact our dedicated Military Program Specialist: Brooks Raup | (215) 571-3895 | bar49@drexel.edu

Nova Southeastern University admits students of any race, color, sexual orientation, and national or ethnic origin. Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, Telephone number: 404-679-4501) to award associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees.

You served with honor.

Now, it would be our honor to serve you.

Nova Southeastern University recognizes the sacrifices our veterans have made on behalf of our nation. As a way to thank you for all you’ve done, we take pride in being a military friendly university. From ground based programs throughout Florida to online programs that you can take throughout the world, we’ll assure that you are built to succeed. NSU will proudly offer scholarship opportunities for hundreds of qualified veterans seeking undergraduate, master’s, and first professional/doctoral degrees in a wide range of programs, including Business, Education, Nursing, and Criminal Justice. We’re pleased to offer convenient class schedules – including innovative online formats – along with cutting-edge curriculum, distinguished professors, and a team of academic and financial aid advisers to assist you with the transition into your post-military career.

www.nova.edu/financialaid/veterans

877-829-3107

MTR-EDUCATION CHOICES

www.thegriffon108.com

50 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2012

National Graduate School is GI Friendly The National Graduate School of Quality Management (NGS) is an accredited institution that offers Bachelor of Science Degree Completion programs*, Master of Science degrees and Doctor of Business Administration degrees* in both online* and in-residence formats at various sites nationwide.

NGS programs are delivered throughout the country in a highly interactive format by faculty practitioners who combine real-world experience with academic excellence.

Additionally, NGS is committed to stewarding, contributing to, and advancing the body of knowledge in the areas of Quality Systems

Management, Six Sigma practices, Homeland Security, Health Systems and Environmental Quality Policy through its research, publications, and programs.

The National Graduate School has been named a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Military Friendly Schoolâ&#x20AC;? by G.I. Jobs magazine.The annual list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools which are doing the most to embrace Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veterans and active-duty military members as students.

NGS has a long history of catering to the unique needs of military students. Now, members of the military who are deployed overseas

are still able to earn their degree from NGS through the online program!

The Financial Aid and Bursarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office are well-informed on the many benefits available to active-duty military, veterans, retirees and their spouses including the Post-9/11 and Montgomery GI bills,Tuition Assistance programs,Top-Up, etc.

Discounted tuition is also available to members of the military and their spouses. Contact financialaid@ngs.edu today to discuss what works best for you The Bachelor of Science Degree Completion* program is a 12 month, 10 course program that en-

ables students to earn the majority of the 60 upper-level (junior and senior) credits necessary for the Bachelor of Science degree.

The Master of Science degree program is a 12 month, 36 credit hours program.

The Doctor of Business Administration* (DBA) program is a 24 month, 60 credit program and is delivered in a â&#x20AC;&#x153;low residenceâ&#x20AC;? format.

NGS doctoral programs are offered in two phases.

For more information on The National Graduate School of Quality Management, please visit www.ngs. edu, call 800-838-2580 ext. 104. *Not available in Massachusetts

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52 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

CAREER CHOICES

Five HOT jobs for ex-military personnel Courtesy Military.com

special place in the heart of police department recruiters across the The US military is arguably the U.S.The qualities of a great police best-trained workforce in the world, officer are virtually identical to and personnel who leave military those of a great soldier: service have skills that translate to Both have a desire to virtually any career. Here’s a look at serve their country five popular jobs that give the men and community and and women who’ve served our protect people and country an opportunity to make a their rights. A career as difference and move up. a law-enforcement professional may appeal Information Technology to those with military Specialist service because there Former members of the miliare a variety of departtary have worked with some of the ments and specialties most advanced technology in the to pursue, not unlike world.They can use that hands-on the military. experience in a civilian capacity as Because vets are in an IT professional. such high demand, According to the US Department many police departof Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statisments offer hiring tics,“Computer scientists and dataperks, including extra base administrators are expected points on the entrance to be among the fastest growing exam, an age deducoccupations through 2014.” In addi- tion from the maxition to enjoying a demand for your mum age limit, GI Bill services, you can also exercise your benefits, retirement entrepreneurial side as an IT speperks and more. Find cialist and become a certified conpolice officer or secutractor. Search for IT jobs. rity jobs.

Police Officer

Math or Science Teacher

Former military personnel hold a

Former military personnel with

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technology backgrounds can make wonderful teachers, as they are familiar with maintaining order and instilling a sense of pride in oth-

ing it.

Many ex-military members thrive through discipline. It’s also a quality that every business owner needs for her company to survive its first few years and become a viable operation.

From franchising to starting a company from scratch, there are many ways for military personnel to pursue entrepreneurship. Visit score.org and eauth.com to learn about additional opportunities and resources just for veterans.

Civilian Public Service

ers. And being a teacher has other rewards: generous vacation time (including summers off), opportunities to earn extra income through tutoring or by teaching additional classes, and coaching. Search for teaching jobs.

Entrepreneur According to SCORE, a nonprofit partner with the US Small Business Administration that dispenses free business advice, almost one in four US veterans buys or launches a new business or is seriously consider-

People who have served in the military may be drawn to continue their career in public service. In fact, certain veterans will receive hiring preference over civilians when applying for federal jobs.You can find out more by visiting the Office of Personnel Management.

“Not coincidentally, many people who leave the service head to Washington, DC,” says John Challenger, of Challenger, Gray and Christmas, a global outplacement firm.“There’s a large community of military personnel there as well as opportunity.” In fact, 16 percent of federal jobs are based there.“There’s a bond there that’s similar to those of fraternities or sororities, and that bond can be very valuable in a job search,” he adds.

The above list is just a start. People who have served in the military have a vast array of transferable skills that they can leverage to continue careers in their chosen fields.

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54 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

HOMESCHOOL OPTIONS

Parenting teens — a.k.a. ‘Riding the Mechanical Bull’

By Debra Bell The roiling waters of the teen years catch many parents by surprise. It did me. Fortunately, our heavenly Father promises to give us the wisdom we need to shoot these rapids with skill and faith. But first we need to understand what is fueling the uproar.

Your teen is going through tremendous psychological and biological changes, and this is unnerving for both of you.These changes are often unpredictable and beyond the teen’s control. My son Mike says he hated junior high because of his emotional swings. He never knew if he would wake up happy or angry.

His emotions controlled him, and he had no idea how to explain this or manage them.

Of course, he wasn’t admitting this to us at the time because he wasn’t mature enough to objectively analyze his situation. Instead we were on the receiving end of angry

outbursts totally out of proportion to the situation or protracted seasons of silence emanating from behind a closed door.

Our daughters, when they were teens, crumbled into tears at the drop of a hat. Now, with some distance, I wonder why I wasn’t more sympathetic.The reason is that I was rooted in fear, so I acted out of fear instead of faith, thereby exacerbating the emotional upheaval. A few general observations regarding this stage of life: 1. Significant physical changes take place as kids approach their adult height and sexual maturity.

2. Adolescents show increased interest in widening their social contact beyond the family.

3. Adolescents show increasing interest in the opposite sex.

4. Adolescents seek to establish their autonomy as individuals.

What I lost sight of was the

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physical process that God Himself designed for achieving these desired results. Our kids don’t move from dependency to independence overnight.The transfer of headship over their lives from parent to child cannot be accomplished with the flip of a switch; it is a process that usually begins with them straining at the reins of parental authority.

No, they began thinking along these lines before questions of autonomy were even a blip on our radar screen. And as we weren’t anticipating their interest in greater autonomy, we quickly took action to shut it down.

The first thing to remember is that this is a good thing.The second thing to remember is that most kids aren’t going to make this transition smoothly.They aren’t really thinking about how they can make life easy for mom and dad. Psychologically, they’ve never been more selfconscious or more self-centered, and they will need your help to battle through this to a place of security and outward focus.You may find it helpful to just throw out any expectations of thoughtfulness or understanding on their end, and then be thankful and pleased when they do surprise you with consideration.

Of course, I’m not saying you should excuse your teen’s sin or sit back passively while she struggles

to develop a more pleasant disposition. Not at all! Other than infancy, there is no time when hands-on parenting is more required.

My primary impulse was not to provide training but to establish control. I thought I needed to suppress my teens’ impulses and restrain their attempts at freedom.

I imagined that if I didn’t do this, things would escalate to full-scale rebellion and dangerous behavior.

I was responding to the natural course of events in fear and assuming my children’s struggle for greater autonomy was fueled by sin.

Instead, I needed to respond in faith and recognize that their resistance was in fact an imperfect response to the God-designed maturation process going on inside. When you first read the title of this article, did you picture yourself trying to ride the mechanical bull alone? Did you equate the bull with “parenting teens” in your mind? What happens if you picture you and your teen on that bucking bronco together, with you helping him to learn to remain astride the machine through the peaks and valleys of his undulating emotions and impulses?

Your teen is in a fight to gain control over his raging hormones.

You need to get in his corner and coach him through this season and show him how to traverse life’s difficulties with faith and grace.

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 55

Special Advertising Supplement

Walk in the shade of the ancient Sequoias This summer take your R&R in peaceful Three Rivers, and walk in the shade of ancient Sequoias!

As you enter the quaint rural community of Three Rivers, once home to Native California’s largest tribe, the Yokuts, feast your eyes on our golden hills, dotted with the evergreen of oaks and washed with the blue of our snowmelt rivers. Like the ancient Yokuts, follow the rivers to their source, spending the heat of the day in what is now Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest, walking in the shade of giant sequoias, the largest living things on earth. Dip your toes in a snow-melt river, now moving more slowly, warmed by the sun, and wonder no more why the Yokuts and the ranchers who came after them, each considered this part of California a paradise.

For a more modern perspective, lean back and take a lazy boat ride along Lake Kaweah’s snowmelt reservoir, a natural pooling point for our snow-melt rivers which was enlarged to protect the Valley below.

At its peak each year, Lake Kaweah swells with 183,300

acre feet of freshly melted snow.

Watch as the Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Kaweah slowly releases the snow-melt from the huge reservoir, which today is controlled by a pebble dam and the

world’s largest fusegates.Then hike or camp around the now-enlarged Lake bed, noting the various forks of the Kaweah River as they slowly wind their way across the bottom.

For boating or fishing, the Kaweah Marina is a local favorite.

It’s a small but full-service marina offering slip rentals, boat rentals, bait, tackle, poles, fishing information, snack bar, ice, gas and even a small convenience market. Some of our residents live in houseboats on Lake Kaweah all year long. I’m sure you’ll see sail boats — and we usually see motor boats — with water skiing on the weekends. Dale and Joy Mehrten, former owners of the Marina for many years (now advisors), know what fish are biting, when, where and what bait to use.

We locals also know a thing or two, especially about secret places for catching trout!

Ask a local, then try your luck along the Kaweah River’s Main, North, or East Forks.

When you’re ready to chill, you will particularly appreciate Sequoia National Park’s Crystal Cave, which naturally maintains a steady 50 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, in addition to housing some spectacular marble formations.

Take the children on top of Lake Kaweah to the Kaweah Heritage Visitors Center, which has a deck overlooking the Lake, picnic tables, and a huge slab of bedrock from Three Rivers containing ancient Native American bedrock mortars used for grinding acorns.

Inside the Visitors Center enjoy the book store, Native American exhibits, wildlife exhibits, exhibits pertaining to the flooding which the Kaweah River historically caused in the Valley below, and even exhibits explaining the dam and fusegates. Admission is free, and the center is open daily from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff there has also done an excellent job of charting the entire known natural history of the area. In addition, if you call ahead, you may also be able to schedule a see SEQUOIA page 56

Sequoia Park Area Lodging at its Finest A Great Place for R&R Deluxe Room and Suites • Free Wi Fi • Fitness Room • Sauna • In-Room Jacuzzi Tubs • Microwaves and Refrigerators • Outdoor Swimming Pool and Jacuzzi Comfort Inn & Suites- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park in Three Rivers, Gateway to the Giant Sequoias 40820 Sierra Drive • Three Rivers, CA 93271 800.331.2140 • 559.561.9000 • fax: 559.561.9010 www.sequoiahotel.com • gm.caa26@gmail.com

Discover ~ Explore ~ Enjoy We honor our military for the job that they do and invite them to visit our military friendly destination for their R&R. • Whitewater Rafting • Camping and Hiking • Fishing and Swimming • Horseback Riding • 9-Hole Golf Course • Boating, Water Skiing and other Water Sports • Concerts and Local Art

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This ad sponsored by Three Rivers Bed and Breakfast.

AMP UP THE MUSIC The Arkansas Music Pavilion, or “The AMP,” is the state’s only fully covered, outdoor arts and entertainment facility, hosting some of the nation’s top music artists. The AMP has become one of the top 100 amphitheatres in the nation. Experience the sights and sounds of the Natural State and see what we have to offer: )# cTe^f TaW $* `\_Xf bY geT\_f 5XThg\Yh_ 5XTiXe ?T^X 6elfgT_ 5e\WZXf @hfXh` bY 4`Xe\VTa 4eg 4e^TafTf 4\e @hfXh`"@\_\gTel @hfXh` XkcXe\XaVXYTlXggXi\__X!Vb` +## *)) ')%)

56 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

TRAVEL USA

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Sequoia

50-year old candy factory and old Continued from page 55 world icecream Ranger-taught watershed lecture or shop called Reimer’s also locata Ranger-led tour of the dam/fuseed on the river, a gates. couple of thrift The all-volunteer Three Rivers Historical Society staffs an adorable shops, an antique shop, and more.

Museum in town, focusing mainly Sequoia and Kings on the early Native American and early Ranching communities in our Canyon National Parks offer books, area. Out front, the museum boasts gifts, souvenirs and a 40 foot statue of Paul Bunyan carved by a local artist in the 1940’s more, for purchase at each of their from a single fallen sequoia tree, Visitor Centers and along with a slice of another huge Museums. sequoia displaying tree rings that For music and date back to the beginning of the art lovers, the natuChristian era, plus Native Ameriral beauty of our can bedrock mortars, and a Native foothills, rivers, American village which was dedicated in October of 2011 consisting lake, and forests is nothing short of of a Wukchumni summer home, a Wuksachi winter home, and a small inspirational! We acorn grainery on a raised platform. have concerts, a music camp, live Inside, this small museum rotates music in our resthe Historical Society’s extensive collection of local Native American taurants, and stuartifacts and early ranching artifacts, dios, galleries and co-ops selling local along with books and gifts related to Three Rivers and our magnificent art. We also have our very own 1st neighbors: Sequoia and Kings CanSaturday in Three yon National Parks.

Rivers, which is a For the shoppers at heart,Three free festival of food, fun and fabuRivers has art studios and art collous art, in which our various artists lectives displaying local art for open up their studios throughout sale, along with a Russian nesting town and share their wonderful doll shop, Heart’s Desire gift shop world with us. located on the river, a wonderful

The new “America the Beautiful” annual free pass for active military is being honored at Lake Kaweah and also at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, effective 5/19/12. For more information on

the pass program, visit http://store. usgs.gov/pass/military.html.

For more information, visit www. threerivers.com or email us at info@ threerivers.com

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THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 57

Special Advertising Supplement

All new experiences at Universal Orlando Universal Releases FirstEver Looks at All-New Experiences, Including Upcoming Despicable Me Attraction, New Interactive Parade and Spectacular Nighttime Show.

This year, Universal Orlando Resort will debut more adventure, excitement, laughter and awe-inspiring moments than ever before — making 2012 an extraordinary year to be here.

There will be something for everyone and every family. From a new Blue Man Group show and newly re-created experience inside one of Universal Orlando’s most popular attractions to a stunning parade, spectacular nighttime show and brand-new blockbuster attraction based on an incredibly popular film — Universal Orlando Resort is bringing guests more new entertainment across our entire destination in 2012 than during any other year in our history.

The new experiences began debuting in February. Guests discover the exhilarating entertainment of a new Blue Man Group show; marvel at breathtaking new animation and effects in The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man; dance and celebrate with their favorite animated characters during Universal’s Superstar Parade and relive memorable moments from Universal Pictures most powerful and beloved films during the nighttime show Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular — 100 Years of Movie Memories. And coming this summer — families will laugh together as they are transformed into minions for an incredible adventure inside the new Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction.

Universal Orlando will also be marking the Universal Pictures Centennial Anniversary Celebration during 2012 with a series of events to be announced throughout the year.

“We are about to offer our guests a historic range of incredible new

entertainment experiences,” said Alice Norsworthy, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Universal Orlando Resort.“This year will be filled with excitement and entertainment for the entire family.”

Blue Man Group — Now Open at Universal CityWalk Universal Orlando’s Blue Man Group show has taken their unique and captivating mash-up of highenergy music, comedy, audience participation and collective exhilaration to another level. Featuring a new show environment, new music, new technology and new experiences, the show allows audiences to join the Blue Men as they discover, engage and explore the world’s obsession with cutting-edge technology. Signature Blue Man Group moments combine with breathtakingly fun new pieces for an explosive evening of entertainment. New show elements include the curious Blue Men interacting with enormous “GiPads,” a funny and insightful look at contemporary communication vehicles, and a pulsating new finale with an original Blue Man Group music score that will have guests jumping to their feet.

Look closely — you may even see the Blue Men take a spin on one of Universal Orlando’s most popular attractions.

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man — Now Open at Islands of Adventure Universal Orlando has transformed what is already one of the most amazing attraction experiences ever created into what will feel like an all-new adventure.The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man now

Harm Museum of Art

Universal’s Superstar Parade — Starting May 8th at Universal Studios Florida Some of today’s most beloved characters and stories will bring new adventure to the streets of Universal Studios during Universal’s Superstar Parade — an all-new daily parade that features largerthan-life floats, state-of-the-art technology and hundreds of energetic street performers. Guests will sing and dance along with characters like the minions from Despicable Me, E.B. from the hit comedy, Hop, Nickelodeon’s Dora and Diego and SpongeBob Square Pants during the interactive experience. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy performances and character meet and greets prior to the parade at select locations throughout the day.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem — Opening Summer 2012 at Universal Studios Florida Universal Orlando’s newest attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, will take guests on an unforgettable 3-D adventure with their favorite characters from the hit film — Gru, Margo, Edith, Agnes and the mischievous minions.The experience begins when guests enter Gru’s home, where they learn that they’re being recruited to become minions and undergo “min-

Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular: 100 Years of Movie Memories Starting May 8th at Universal Studios Florida Narrated by award-winning actor and recent Golden Globe — Cecil

see UNIVERSAL page 58

NEW RIDE SUMMER 2012!

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features all-new, 4K digital high definition animation, new high tech 3-D glasses and upgrades to the set, audio and lighting systems.The re-

Where Nature and Culture Meet Florida Museum of National History

B. DeMille honoree, Morgan Freeman, Universal Orlando’s brandnew nighttime show, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular, will celebrate the most powerful and emotional moments from Universal Pictures’ most iconic films — all on cutting-edge waterfall screens within the Universal Studios lagoon and surrounded by colorful fountains and pyrotechnics.The experience will take guests on a journey through epic cinematic moments filled with heroes, horror, laughter, good vs. evil and triumph.The new show opens this spring, runs all summer and then on select nights through the end of the year.

animation of the ride film includes an entirely new level of detail for guests to discover, including a cameo by legendary comic book icon and Spider-Man co-creator, Stan Lee.

Butterfly Rainforest

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

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Where Vacatio Vacation Becomes Ad Adventure B Two Theme Parks. Three On-Site Hotels. Non-Stop Nightlife.

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Play, scream and laugh with the biggest characters in movies, TV and pop culture at two immersive theme parks - Universal Studios® and Universal’s Islands of Adventure®.

Only here can you explore the magic and excitement of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. Join the ranks of the minions on the new 3-D ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, new in Summer 2012. And swing high above the city streets with Spider-Man™, now in high-def 3-D.

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For more information, visit UniversalOrlando.com/Military HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s12) TM & © 2012 Marvel & Subs. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2012 Universal Studios. © 2012 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. 251688/0412/MW

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58 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2012

TRAVEL USA

Blastaway Beach new to Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild Orlando Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild Orlando has announced the name of their new, acre-sized family water play area Blastaway Beachâ&#x201E;˘. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The name Blastaway Beach captures the two key aspects of the guest experience,â&#x20AC;? explained Michael Black, Sr. Vice President and GM of Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild.â&#x20AC;&#x153;The word â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Blastawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; describes the high-energy fun families will enjoy together. With over 160 water cannons, jets, soakers and waterfalls, guests canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but get drenched, interact with one another and, quite literally have a blast. The word, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reflects the beach-themed ambience, with lush tropical plants and dedicated seating areas suggestive of a resort and offer a place to recharge,â&#x20AC;? Mr. Black said.

Built around a sandcastle rising 60-feet high, the new attraction will feature 17 slides and expand across two pools. Designed especially for families, Blastaway Beach will feature a single entrance/exit creating a secluded environment that is family-friendly.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one more thing Mr. Black likes about the name: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Blastaway Beach definitely sounds like a place where the entire family can share the rush together.â&#x20AC;?

Now, not only can you share the rush at Blastaway Beach but enjoy

all of the other multi-person rides Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild has to offer with the Length of Stay Pass. Now through Dec. 31, 2012 visit your nearest participating military base ITT or ITR offices to purchase discounted Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild admission tickets.

Tickets are eligible for a FREE upgrade to a Length of Stay pass, allowing for unlimited admissions for 14 consecutive days from your first visit. Tickets eligible for a free upgrade require you to present your

purchased ticket at Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Front Gate. Upgrade must be completed on your first day of visit. Restrictions apply.

Open year-round with pools heated in the cooler months,Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild is located on International Drive, convenient to Universal Orlando Resort.

For updated hours and information, visit wetnwildorlando.com or call 407351-1800.

Universal

voiced by the filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original cast: Steve Carell (Gru), Miranda Cosgrove (Margo), Dana Gaier (Edith)

Continued from page 57

ion training.â&#x20AC;?Things donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go as planned, and guests find themselves on a wildly hysterical journey with Gru and his daughters. Once guests make it through training, they join an interactive, minion-inspired dance party where they can show off their best moves.

Universalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Creative team is working closely with Chris Meledandriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Illumination Entertainment to bring this all-new adventure to life in the most authentic way possible. In fact, the beloved characters in the attraction will be

and Elsie Fisher (Agnes).The rideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience is being developed by the same creative team that brought you the award-winning film, Despicable Me.The motionpicture event â&#x20AC;&#x153;Despicable Me 2â&#x20AC;? arrives in theaters on July 3, 2013.

Other New Experiences Opening this Year Hollywood Drive-In Golf, a unique 36-hole miniature golf experience inspired by the classic drive-

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in movie era, will open in February at Universal CityWalk.

A great, new immersive retail entertainment experience that will become home to SpongeBob SquarePants and other characters from the number one kids animated TV series, Nickelodeonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SpongeBob SquarePants. It will open inside Universal Studios this year.

Minutes away from Universal Orlando, the popular Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Wild water park will open its first interactive family water play area, this summer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; allowing everyone in the family to splash and swim together. Amidst lush, tropical landscaping, the new area will feature 15 water slides and more than 100 soakers, jets, waterfalls and water cannons â&#x20AC;&#x201D; making it the largest interactive water play experience in Florida.

Discounted theme park tickets are available at all base leisure travel offices with valid identification.

Visit www.universalorlando.com.

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 59

Special Advertising Supplement

Wakulla — the ‘other’ Florida

By Pam Portwood Director, Wakulla County Tourist Development Council

Wakulla Springs is one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world.The clear spring waters are a cool 69 degrees year-round — refreshing the body and the spirit! Riverboat tours give nature lovers a unique glimpse of Florida wildlife. Surrounded by nature, including canopies of oak, hickory, and beech trees, the natural spring, and Florida wildlife, the Wakulla Springs Lodge offers an old southern feel and a peaceful getaway for family vacations or a perfect retreat for those that just want to “get away from it all.”

Paddle a kayak or canoe along the crystal clear waters of the Wakulla and St. Marks Rivers or the the reddish-brown water of the Sopchoppy River, where deer can often be seen along the shore or swimming across the river. Lo-

In the mood for a little history?

Take a bike ride along the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail to the San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park.The bike trail follows an abandoned rail bed and stretches 16 miles through dense pine forests and quite rural communities before ending in the small coastal town of St. Marks. Established in 1528, St. Marks is home to the San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park.The historic fort offers a well-marked trail that leads visitors on a journey through the historic fortification ruins.

How about some family fun?

The quaint fishing village and historic small town of Panacea offers a unique experience for “children of all ages” at Gulf Specimen Aquarium see WAKULLA page 60

Experience the Wonders of Wakulla

R

Need to cool off?

cal outfitters and “Certified Green Guides” can enhance an already amazing adventure.

&

Open the door to a world of natural wonders far beyond the hustle and noise of man-made attractions.

Come explore, relax, refresh, and discover the wondrous treasures found only in the unspoiled “other” Florida. Everything here moves to the sounds of softer, quieter music so the rare birds and animals who live here aren’t disturbed.They greet you along the banks of the Wakulla River or the marshes surrounding the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.

Be amazed at the diversity of scenery, places and experiences that await the guests of Wakulla County. Smiles and friendly people are the norm. It’s a “come as you are” kind of place — very down home and very, very proud of America’s service men and women. R&R meets Fun in the Sun in the Summer Wonders of Wakulla.

Unspoiled by over-commercialized attractions and devoid of a hectic atmosphere.

la ku l a W

C

atura N e h t is ounty

• Birding • Fishing • Hiking • Biking • History • World- Class Springs • Lighthouse • Canoeing & Kayaking • Wild & Scenic Rivers • Fresh Seafood

Wakulla Co. Tourist Development Council

850.984.3966 • visitwakulla.com

ce l Pla

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www.thegriffon108.com

60 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

TRAVEL USA

Wakulla Continued from page 59

and Marine Lab. On a quiet back street between the highway and the bay, a collection of open touch tanks, aquarium displays, and dioramas provide a close look at the enormous diversity of Big Bend sea life.

Dig into the sand at Mashes Sands Beach or enjoy an unbelievable sunset at Shell Point Beach — or, how about a picnic lunch at one of Wakulla’s many waterside parks — like Newport Park, Wakulla River City Park, Woolley Park, and Otter Lake.

Let nature takes its course…

Experience Florida as it was hundreds of years ago by visiting the preserved natural lands in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the Apalachicola National Forest.The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge provides more than 68,000 acres of land, and 31,000 acres of bay that is home to a variety of wildlife. Internationally recognized for its more than 300 species of birds, outstanding nature trails and viewing platforms offer the perfect stage for nature photography and wildlife viewing. And speaking of views, the St. Marks Lighthouse, built in 1832, is still in use and stands overlooking the marshes and inland ponds on one side and Apalachee Bay on the other.Take a deep breath and experience the awe-inspiring views that are like no other.

unt 10% disco y! for militar

The Apalachicola National Forest is the largest of three National Forests located in Florida, and covers nearly 570,000 acres between Tallahassee and the Apalachicola River.

A quiet walk along the many forest trails will calm the mind and refresh the spirit. Enjoy a horseback ride through the wooded countryside of open pinelands interrupted by wet and scenic titi bays that are studded with a variety of wildflowers.The Florida Scenic Trail also winds through the forest and leads to recreational facilities like Porter

Vacations and Reunions with a Bavarian Touch

The Helendorf River Inn & Suites is located in the Alpine Village of Helen, Georgia ; Easy walk to shops, restaurants and activities ; Rooms with balconies on the banks of the river ; Enclosed heated pool ; Complimentary continental breakfast ; Suites with Àreplaces, Jacuzzis and kitchens ; Large meeting and party facilities ; Proudly operated by an Army Brat P.O. Box 305 • Helen, Georgia 30545

800-445-2271 www.Helendorf.com

Lake, the quaint town of Sopchoppy (home of the Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival) and the Ochlockonee River State Park.

If all this isn’t enough ...

Go fishing. Wakulla County is located on the Natural North Florida Fishing Trail and offers boundless opportunities for fishing of any kind (except ice-fishing). Charter boats and guides are readily available for offshore, bay, lake, or upriver fishing. Kayak fishing is one of the most popular activities in the area and for those without a boat — fishing piers and surf fishing offer a good shot at bringing home the catch of the day.

Go golfing. The Wildwood Golf

Club’s 18-hole championship golf course features a challenging layout, mixing water and sand traps to provide golfers a variety of challenges while rewarding smart play.

The par 72 layout is nestled among rolling hills and ancient oak trees.

Four sets of tees accommodate and entertain players of all ages and abilities – perfect for an afternoon round or a weekend foursome.

So, whether it’s a weekend, a week, or month — R&R in Wakulla will open the door to a world of memories. Lodging opportunities are available for any budget and travel planning is simple on VisitWakulla.com. Explore, relax, and refresh in Wakulla — The Natural Place to Be in Florida.

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Special Advertising Supplement

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 61

Visit military friendly Pooler, Georgia Looking for a great place to relax, de-stress and have fun without hurting your wallet? Pooler is your answer, with plenty of things to do, places to eat and stay.

Tired? Ready for a break? Looking to save some money but still have fun?

Then you need to come to one relaxed and friendly place in coastal Georgia — Pooler. Their are about a dozen different hotels conveniently located near area attractions and beaches.

Better yet, Pooler hotels don’t charge extra for parking. Our hotels have ample, free parking and offer military discounts. If you’re traveling with a pet, several hotels have pet-friendly areas (just contact poolercrossroads@att.net to find out where).

We have great places to eat, from Smokin’ Pig the BBQ Joint (visited by Gregg Allman, a southern rock legend), to Miss Sophie’s southern style cooking with food — watch out Paula Deen — to Fatz Café, Longhorn Steakhouse, Cheddars Casual Cafe, the Omelette House, McDonald’s Western Sizzlin’ and much more.

After you’ve had a great meal, you can relax and take a nap or check out local attractions such as the two, multi-screen movie the-

atres; bowling and other fun at FramesN-Games, bumper cars and more at Fun Zone Sports and Amusement Park, and a salute to patriotism and a look through history at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum.

Just outside Pooler is Historic Savannah, known around the world for just about everything you can imagine. A little bit east of Pooler are Tybee’s beautiful beaches, with something happening evPhoto courtesy Diana Daley at www.dianadaleyphoto.com. ery month.

Pooler is the closCooler in Pooler Resolution 5K est interstate connection to Tybee and 5K. That’s not all, as Pooler beaches and Savannah, so that’s also hosts the Daniel Defense Run, good news for you, too.

JCB Mud Run, Triathlon, and the Depending on when you come Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum to Pooler, you might want to get 5K, to name a few. some extra exercise, too. Check If you’re a golfer, the Pooler area out a guest pass form the YMCA or has several golf courses, including try one of our other outdoor acCrosswinds Golf Course, where tivities at Tom Triplett Park — such you can also play at night. as disc golf.

When you need to shop, Pooler Are you into some running adhas plenty of stores, from — Walventure? Pooler is home to the Mart and Sam’s Club to specialty Big Nasty Mud Run as well as the stores and boutiques. Plus, there’s

a Px at nearby Hunter Army Airfield.

Whether you’re traveling by plane or by car, we’ve got you covered. Pooler is close to two interstates, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Hunter Army Airfield Px, and Fort Stewart.

Come to Pooler. We’re sure you’ll feel better!

For more information, call 912748-0110, marketing@visitpooler.com, poolercrossroads@att.net or visit www. visitpooler.com.

www.thegriffon108.com

62 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

TRAVEL USA

Kirksville, Missouri’s North Star What does it mean to be Missouri’s North Star? Wonderful outdoor recreation, cultural experiences and a very reasonable cost

of living make Kirksville a great place to live. A local hospital that provides quality care, two universities, and an award winning public

Nestled in the heart of Northeast Missouri, Kirksville offer much to see and do. Visitors will discover how the many exciting attractions and events, as well as the recreation activities, dining and our world-famous hunting work together to make Kirksville “Missouri’s North Star”.

304 S. Franklin 7 Kirksville, MO 6350 7 660-665-3766 7 kvtourism@cableone.net

Dutchess County thanks you for your service and invites you to come and relax with us. Hiking, biking, kayaking, history and arts. Only 20 minutes from West Point Military Academy.

www.dutchesstourism.com

® NYSDED

Simple and Sophisticated. You Deserve Dutchess.

school district help make this community a midwest standout. Kirksville is a great place for a little rest and relaxation.

Kirksville has several festivals and events — St. Patrick’s Day, Red Barn Arts and Crafts Festival, Kirksville Bacon Fest, Scottish Highland Games, the NEMO Fair and Missouri Livestock Symposium.

Music lovers can enjoy Round Barn Blues and SPBGMA Blue Grass Festival, and performances at Truman State University.There is even room for musicians in the local community band and community orchestra. Athletes can compete in the NEMO Triathlon and 5 K runs and half marathons throughout the year and that is just a start.

Many people have chosen to make Kirksville their home after completing their first career. Gary and Claire Lloyd chose to move to Kirksville for several reasons. Claire explains, “We have the benefits of a large city in a small town. We like the Lyceum program at Truman that brings great performances.The cost of tickets to these events in the cities could be up to $100. Kirksville is a good place. We feel like we are really part of something here.”

Housing in Kirksville is afford-

able with lots of options. According to Spellings Best Places,“The median home cost is $98.800.This is the value of the year’s most recent home sales data, updated in September 2011.” Property tax is $8.36 per $1000 and the average in the United States is $11.20 per $1000.

Amanda Powell and Brett Moser chose to move here two years ago.

Amanda states,“As young professionals we appreciate the opportunities that living in Kirksville provides. We like knowing we can make a difference in a small town.”

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Special Advertising Supplement

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 63

R&R time on Maryland’s Upper Eastern shore Having fun on the shore, in the County of Kent, is the place to be this summer. It seems like every weekend this Upper Eastern Shore county is host to a terrific event or festival; not to mention, you will always find a show, a sail, a cruise, an art exhibit, a piece of history — something is always happening.

The 4th of July celebrations throughout the County are smalltown unmatched, beginning on July 1 with Watermen’s Day in Rock Hall, Fireworks on July 3rd in Rock Hall, July 4th in Chestertown and Georgetown and all-you-can-eat breakfasts in Galena and Rock Hall.

Three of these historic towns have ongoing town events of fun, music and more: First Fridays in Chestertown (arts and entertainment), Second Saturdays in Galena (music, fellowship and fun),Third Fridays in Rock Hall (Cruise Night, reliving the 60s with cars and music).The Kent County Fair is July 19-21 at the 4-H Park in Tolchester.

Find great bargains on the redbrick sidewalks of Chestertown with Crazy Days on July 26.Take a sail on one of many Schooner Sultana Two-Hour Public Sails (for the schedule, www.sultanaprojects. org.) If you love quaint beaches, a great time to visit Betterton Beach is Betterton Appreciation Day on Aug. 4; parade begins at 10 a.m.

If pirates are your thing, don’t miss Rock Hall’s Pirates and Wenches Weekend on Aug. 10-12. Bicycling the flat, winding country roads is best with one of the many bike tours, try Ride to See Bike Tour on Aug. 11. How about an Ol’ Time Fish Fry at Wesley Chapel on Aug. 24? Find these and many more great events online at kentcounty. com/events.

Less than a two-hour drive from Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore and Wilmington are the shorelines of the County of Kent, Maryland. Visiting the historic towns of Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Betterton and Millington is like stepping back in time.There are plenty of things to do, great places to explore and even more ways to relax. An oasis, where you will find boutique shopping, antiquing, sidewalk cafes, art galleries and studios, performing arts theaters in Chestertown and Rock Hall, museums, quaint beaches in Betterton and Rock Hall, waterfront parks, terrific paddling on the calm tributaries of the Bay, fishing, boating, cycling on the Chesapeake Country National Scenic Byway, exploring the Stories of the Chesapeake Heritage Area, terrific restaurants, and fresh local seafood — so fresh in fact, it is a common sight to see watermen returning from a day on the water with their catches.

For wine lovers, make a stop to

the County of Kent’s first winery at the Crow Farm Vineyard and Winery in Kennedyville.

You may want to bring your bicycle or rent one in Chestertown or Rock Hall. A long ride on these flat, winding country roads will surely work up your appetite.Taste fresh seafood, including the Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab and Rockfish. Known for its terrific restaurants, you will find one here for every taste. From mouth-watering burgers to gourmet local seafood and grass-fed beef entrees, the flavor is yours to choose. From waterfront vistas to historic red-brick sidewalks, the view is yours to pick.You may even choose to experience a farm-to-table dinner at a local farm.

Don’t miss Rock Hall Cruise Night, held on third Fridays on Main Street. Everyone is welcome to clean up that rod and cruise on down, or just come for the fun and check out the cars, music, and relive the 60s. No registration necessary.

The Town of Betterton Located at the mouth of the Sassafras River on the Chesapeake Bay, Betterton Beach offers spectacular views — truly a photographer’s dream. Don’t miss the Betterton Day Celebration, always the first Saturday in August.

The Town of Galena This historic town hosts unique shops, family style restaurants and

Second Saturdays, which features live music, treats in the shops and good fun. Nearby Georgetown is located on the Sassafras River and offers boating, waterfront dining, lodging and fantastic views of the Sassafras River.

The Town of Millington A great spot for paddling, Millington is located at the northern tip of the Chester River, just off of route 301. With its mouthwatering dining, it is a terrific day trip or a perfect travel stop to stretch your legs and have a delicious bite to eat.

Don’t wait, plan your getaway today. Find lodging and lots of things to see and do — and hundreds of events — at www.kentcounty.com/ events.

Chestertown, 1706 Mix history, culture, heritage and shopping along its red-brick, treelined sidewalks and you get Dowtown Historic Chestertown, named one of America’s Distinctive Destinations, by the National Historic Trust. Enjoy its Geddes-Piper House Museum ca. 1784, guided and selfguided historic tours, the Schooner Sultana 1768 public sails and paddles, Prince Theatre’s live performances, first Fridays, specialty shops, art galleries and fabulous restaurants. Be sure to take a taste of “Made in the County of Kent” home with you, by stocking up at the Chestertown Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market on Saturday mornings in Fountain Park. If you want to cruisein to Chestertown, American Cruise Lines has added this historic port to its Philadelphia and Potomac eight day, seven night cruises. For this year’s cruise schedule log on to www.americancruiselines.com.

Caroli y t n u o ne C

Discover

The Town of Rock Hall This small-town treasure is rich in maritime history, with watermen continuing to harvest the bounty of the Bay. Enjoy live performances at Mainstay Theater, find unique shops, more than a dozen marinas, a small beach with a quaint boardwalk and gazebo, three story-filled museums: the Rock Hall Museum,Tolchester Beach Revisited Museum and Waterman’s Museum.

Fish with a licensed fishing captain, charter a sailboat or go kayaking. Bird watchers will be delighted with their finds too, especially while taking a nature walk on a trail to a waterfront bench or an observation deck at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, only seven miles from Rock Hall.

The Harbor of this fishing village is also a perfect venue to hear the chatter of nesting Osprey, commonly called “Fish Hawks.”This large raptor arrives in March, has babies in late May, early June and stays for summer, until migrating in the fall.

Located on the Chesapeake Peninsula, Caroline is a military-friendly getaway with unique heritage experiences, pristine waterways, charming small towns & more. Centrally located between Annapolis NB and Dover AFB, you can enjoy tax-free shopping in neighboring Delaware.

Whatever your passion, come spend a weekend with Caroline.

For more information, visit WWW.TOURCAROLINE.com

64 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

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TRAVEL USA

Visit Berkeley Blueways for outdoor adventures Berkeley County, South Carolina, located just minutes from Downtown Charleston and one and one-half hours from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is cradled in what is quickly becoming known as the “emerging new south.”

Known for its natural beauty, scenic landscape, rich culture and exciting history, Berkeley County is luring more and more visitors each year. Groups and families especially enjoy the year-round gorgeous weather in Berkeley County. Visitors are able to enjoy the attractions, events, water sports and local

culture of this emerging area every month of the year.

Berkeley County’s rivers, streams and lakes offer superior canoeing and kayaking adventures. Our infamous “Berkeley Blueways” feature 20 canoeing and kayaking trails.

During blooming season, wildflowers rich with colors of the rainbow line the banks. Egrets, herons, eagles, fish, turtles and alligators make these waters home. Keep an eye out to catch a glimpse of animals such deer, otters, squirrels, fox and even bobcats along the banks.

For the high-impact adventure

seeker, Berkeley County offers world-class waterskiing, jet skiing, sailing, wind surfing, and boating on Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion. Visit the Santee Cooper Locks on the Cooper River, an engineering marvel which allows visitors to experience the second largest water lock in the United States, which lowers boats 75 feet from Lake Moultrie to the Cooper River.The Cooper River is the only known location in South Carolina to offer an underwater history trail. On a calm day, scuba divers flock to see the extraordinary remains of a British War Ship.

The Cooper River, known for being a plantation road to Charleston, has also served as a port since the 1700s.

Visit the Santee Cooper Locks on the Cooper River, an engineering marvel which allows visitors to experience the second largest water lock in the United States.The Cooper River is the only known location in South Carolina to offer an underwater history trail. On a calm day, scuba divers flock to see the extraordinary remains of a British War Ship.The Cooper River, known for being a plantation road to Charleston, has also served as a port since the 1700s.

Festivals and Events Berkeley County offers family fun seasonal events and festivals featuring music, art, crafts and culture throughout the year. Visit www. visitberkeleycounty.com for a list of upcoming events.

Accommodations Berkeley County has a number of hotels, campgrounds and fish camps eager to welcome you. Many of our hotels have received awards

and offer a variety of services to ensure your stay in Berkeley County is most comfortable and enjoyable.

Our year-round visitors and groups come to Berkeley County to enjoy attractions, events, tours, activities on the water, horseback riding, racing on the mountain bike trails, camping, hiking and benefit from the vast historical, environmental and scientific educational experiences.

For more information about Berkeley County, call the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce at 843-761-8238, or visit our “Adventure Portal” www.berkeleysc.org.

Mentioning this article entitles you to special group discounts.

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 65

Special Advertising Supplement

Tennessee Office Welcomes Wounded Warriors

CCOME OME JJOIN OIN UUSS FFOR OR SSOME OME

By Kevin Hart

(RESPECT/RECOGNITION)

place recovering soldiers as Earth Team volunteers. We tailor our jobs to the participants’ preferences and abilities. Soldiers get to learn new Volunteers for U.S. Department skills, try out being conservationists of Agriculture’s Natural Resources and gain a civilian Conservation Serwork reference. vice (NRCS) come The leadership from all walks of life. skills and self-reliIn Tennessee, we’ve ance these soldiers been lucky enough possess ensures that to have U.S. Army they are self-starters. soldiers, who were injured while servMany are technoing our nation, vollogically savvy and unteer at the Clarksable to immediateEarth Team Volunteer Sgt. Patrick ville NRCS Field ly contribute with Bower, Soil Conservationist Janet Office. computer-oriented Coleman and District ConservaClarksville is only tionist Kevin Hart inspect a stream- tasks, due to the eight miles from Fort bank protection jetty. skills they gained Campbell, Ky., a large in the military. OthArmy base which straddles the Ken- ers assist with field work, including tucky and Tennessee border. Fort surveying and inspecting conserCampbell is the home of the 101st vation practices, that occurs durAirborne Division, Special Forces ing the planning and implementaunits, a combat support hospital tion of putting conservation on the and sizeable medground. ical facilities.

One young Fort Campman told me that bell soldiers have his time spent volbeen seeing a lot unteering was as of combat in Iran beneficial to his and Afghanistan. emotional healing That means there as it was to his are many combatphysical healing. wounded needAnd at NRCS, we ing treatment and are very grateful time to heal. for these soldiers’ Earth Team, help.

NRCS’ volunteer I am very workforce, seems proud of the fact to be a great fit that when these for many of these soldiers leave us vets. It gives them and return to acan opportunity tive duty or civilto be productive ian life, they leave and contribute with healed bodduring their reies and new skills, knowing they covery. We can accommodate most have helped us help the land. physical limitations they might In fiscal year 2011, more than have, and they have the flexibil22,000 Earth Team volunteers doity to go to medical appointments nated 435,653 hours of service when needed. And hopefully with to NRCS estimated to be worth time many of them are able to re$9.3 million. Since Earth Team was turn to their regular military jobs. formed in 1985, over half a million Shontel Lawrence, Ft. Campbell volunteers have helped NRCS with Army Wounded Warrior Advocate, its conservation mission. works with me and my staff to NRCS District Conservationist Clarksville, Tennessee

“I am very proud of the

Sure Su r , we re we’v ’vve go got beeacchees, s, unbbel elie ieeva vabl blee bl weeat w a heer, r supper erbb rest reest s au aura raant n s an a d gr grea eatt ea hote ho t lss. But te Buut inn Mou ount nt Ple leas eas asan annt,, we lilike ke ke to rem emem em mbe b r wh w yw wee’r ’ree abblee to en e jooy soome some m resst an andd re rela l xaati la tion o in th on thee fi firs rstt rs p acce. pl e. Thaank nks. s s.

exp x eri err enc cemo emount unt nttple pleasa asant. asa n com nt. om

Peppertree Ocean Club

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off 2 or m nigh ore ts!

W We offer studios, one and two bedrooms. Most have ocean views aand private balconies. We have two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, four outdoor hot tubs and one indoor, seasonal tiki hut.

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843-249-1421 x www.festiva.travel

fact that when these

soldiers leave us and

return to active duty or civilian life, they leave

with healed bodies and new skills, knowing

they have helped us help the land.”

Military Reunion Specialists!* • Complimentary Downtown Shuttle

Military Appreciation Special

20% off!

Promo code: ILCORMIL

• Complimentary Parking • Full Service Restaurant & Lounge • Outdoor Pool

Visit Anderson, South Carolina Family Fun on the Lake Camping, fishing and boating on Lake Hartwell.

History Many historical sites including the Anderson County Museum, Antebellum plantations, historic churches and more.

Split Creek Farm Award winning goat farmvisit with the animals, sample goat cheese, fudge and more.

Many other agri-tourism sites.

• State-of-the-Art Fitness Center • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Express Check-Out • 10% Restaurant Discount with Military ID

Southern Oaks

Charleston Riverview 843.556.7100 Q 800.766.4451 www.hiriverview.com 11 golf courses in Anderson County

* If interested in booking a military reunion, mention this ad and receive a complimentary hospitality room.

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Charleston and the Ashley River from the Harborview Restaurant & Lounge located atop the hotel.

301 Savannah Highway Q Charleston, SC 29407

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66 â&#x20AC;˘ THE GRIFFON â&#x20AC;˘ Summer 2012

Del Rio â&#x20AC;&#x201D; treasure chest of activities Del Rio Del Rio is located on the Rio Grande Plain in Southwest Texas, 150 miles west of San Antonio.

The hardest part of finding something to do in Del Rio is finding time to do it all. Del Rio offers an abundance of activities.The International waters of Lake Amistad, is a paradise for fishermen, boaters and divers;Tour the Whitehead Memorial Museum or Laughlin Heritage Museum in Historic Downtown; putter around on the beautiful San Felipe Golf Course or hold court at Judge Roy Beanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jersey Lilly; or slip into the Val Verde Winery, the oldest bonded winery in Texas; step into one of the many restaurants for a diversity of dishes, from Mexican, Thai to Texas steaks. Del Rio is a treasure chest of bright sights and sparkling attractions.

Attractions Amistad National Recreation Area 9685 US Hwy. 90 W., Del Rio, 78840 830-775-7491, nps.gov/amis Lake Amistad spills into two

tad Lake Amis

countries and boasts almost 1,000 miles of shoreline. Anglers need a license from the appropriate country. Limited hunting is permitted. A six-mile road on the dam provides access from one side to the other.

Spectacular prehistoric rock paintings are visible from the lake and Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site. Open daily 8 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 p.m. (closed major holidays).

Admission: Free. Call or visit website for camping and boat launch fees. Seasonal archery permit issued with state hunting license and fee.

Ciudad AcuĂąa, Mexico Take Spur 239 west approximate-

Laughlin Air Force Ba se

Del Rio, TX offers the calm turquoise waters of Lake Amistad to enjoy during your R&R along with delightful accommodations, restaurants, Val Verde Winery, unique shopping and much more.

Val Verde Winery

Del Rio is also home to Laughlin Air Force Base, the busiest pilot training base in the United States Air Force.

830-775-3551 www.drchamber.com

ly three miles to the international toll bridge.

830-775-3551 . www.ciudadacuna.com.mx Before you drive across the border, check on Mexican car insur-

ance and make sure you have your passport or just park on the U.S. side, walk across the toll bridge, and catch a taxi or bus to downtown.

Toll fees vary.

Whitehead Memorial Museum 1308 S. Main St., Del Rio, 78840 830-774-7568 . whiteheadmuse um.org In 1962 the Whiteheads donated the Perry Mercantile Building for use as a museum. Over the years structures have been added, and now the complex includes 14 buildings and 21 exhibits, among them the 1870 Perry Store, the La Zapa Chapel, and the Cadena Nativity Exhibit. Also on the grounds are the graves of Judge Roy Bean and his son, Sam.The museum now includes 15 hands-on exhibits for children. Open Tue.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sat. 9 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 p.m.

Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Preserving the heritage of Laughlin Air Force Base â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 309 S. Main â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 830-775-3561.

San Felipe Country Club 1530 US Hwy. 90 E., Del Rio, 78840 830-775-3953, sanfelipecc.com.

Buffalo Girls and The Brown Bag 440 S. Main St., Del Rio, 78840 830-768-4837. buffalogirlsboutique.com.

Milagroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Del Rio Featuring authentic Mexican furniture and dĂŠcor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 756 S Main â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 830-775-2703.

Lee Bunch Studio Gallery Features Texas Fine Art and is located above Del Rio Loan Co. 100 E. Greenwood 830-774-3456 www. leebunchstudiogallery.com.

The Emporium Old time soda fountain - 800 S.Main â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 830-774-0962.

Casa De La Cultura Enabling a unified cultural awakening by making the arts accessible and affordable for the entire community â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 301 Cantu St at Brown Plaza 830-768-2287 . www. casedelaculturadelrio.com.

Del Rio Council for the Arts @ The Firehouse Providing affordable arts and entertainment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 120 E. Garfield 830775-0888 www.delrioarts.com.

Laughlin Air Force Base 47 FTW/PA, 561 Liberty Dr., Ste. 3 Laughlin AFB, 78843-5226 830-298-5980 . laughlin.af.mil Focus: History and mission or daily operations of the base. Contact: Joel Langton. Accommodates 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;50 (reservations required at least one week in advance).

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TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 67

Special Advertising Supplement

Experience the simple life Visit Patrick County, Virginia

By Wilma Pendleton Patrick County Tourism

Embark on a path that takes you down the heritage trail of Patrick County. Discover the roots of the people and travel back to a time when arts and crafts were a necessity for daily passionate living. Confederate cavalry commander Jeb Stuart was born on Laurel Hill Farm in Patrick County on February 6th, 1833. Experience a part of history at the annual J.E.B. Stuart Civil War Reenactment and Living History Weekend at Laurel Hill the first weekend in October.

For more history, visit the Patrick County Historical Museum, the Reynolds Homestead and other historical sites. Search for the hidden treasures of Patrick County as you wind down The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Music Trail or enjoy a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Walk on the Wild Side Take a walk on the wild side at one of the hiking and birding trails at Fairy Stone State Park, home of the famous staurolite (fairy stone), Philpott Lake, Rock Castle Gorge, or IC Dehart Park, or visit one of the smaller community parks that offer many forms of recreation.The many beautiful mountain streams offer fly-fishing, kayaking and canoeing opportunities.

The rolling terrain is attractive to hikers and bikers, while the lovely golf courses in the area both challenge and relax golfers. Primland Resort is home to

The Highland Course which is like no other.

Celebrate Celebrate with family and friends at one of the many festivals and events that are held throughout the year. Enjoy the artisans who weave their hearts into the handcrafted quilting, jewelry, pottery, stained glass, woodwork, and much more.

Pick your own cherries, strawberries or apples, and explore the intri-

Relax your mind ~ Rejuvenate your body ~ Strengthen your spirit

cate paths of a corn maze and local winery. Festivals are held throughout the year with the Strawberry Festival leading the way in May followed by the Beach Music Festival, Scottish Highland Games, Virginia State Covered Bridge Festival (home of two covered bridges), Blue Grass Festival, Floyd Fest, Virginia State Peach Festival, Corn Maze Festivals, Patrick County Agricultural Fair, Apple Dumpling Festival and many more.

Harrisonburg, Virginia is just minutes away from a world of relaxation offering golf, cycling trails, locally owned restaurants, cozy B&B’s with ¿replaces and feather beds, majestic mountain views, charming parks and the winding woodland trails of the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

Plan your adventure today!

540.432.8935

www.harrisonburgtourism.com

Experience the Simple Life... ...Visit Patrick County

Relax At the end of the day, experience the feeling of serenity at one of the exquisite Bed and Breakfasts or the luxurious Primland Resort.

For additional information visit our website at visitpatrickcounty.org or call 276-694-8367.

Enjoy...

Enjoy • Hiking and Biking • Hunting and Fishing • Kayaking • Racing • Golfing • Music Jams • Festivals • Corn Mazes • Farmers Markets • Art and Museums • Local Legends • Wining and Dining • Historic Landmarks and more

• In Patrick County, Virginia, you will find an unhurried way of life rich in the tradition and friendliness of rural communities.

• Festivals are held throughout the year with the Strawberry Festival leading the way in May followed by the Beach Music Festival, Scottish Highland Games, Virginia State Covered Bridge Festival (home of two covered bridges), Blue Grass Festival, Floyd Fest, Virginia State Peach Festival, Corn Maze Festivals, Patrick County Agricultural Fair, Apple Dumpling Festival and many more.

• Enjoy a leisurely scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

276.694.8367 www.visitpatrickcounty.org econdev@co.patrick.va.us

68 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012

TRAVEL USA

www.thegriffon108.com

Experience the natural wonder along the trail of the Natural Bridge After descending into the ravine via a shuttle bus or on foot, you’ll be taken by surprise; the size, shape, and chiseled walls of the massive nature-sculpted masterpiece are nothing less than awesome. The Natural Bridge, soaring over 200 feet high, has attracted and captivated curious visitors since Thomas Jefferson purchased it.

On your visit, you’ll be surrounded with natural beauty at the Natural Bridge, along the historic Cedar Creek Nature Trail, the Caverns, and Virginia’s largest indoor butterfly

garden,“Butterflies at the Bridge.”

Over the years the Bridge has taken part in American History, and been designated a National Historic Landmark. In 1750 George Washington carved his initials in it when surveying the area; in 1774 Thomas Jefferson purchased it from England.

Its development as a retreat began when he built a two-room log cabin with one room reserved for guests.

Both, more lodging and people, came.

In the 19th century the Natural Bridge became an important icon of

Remembering Their Valor, Fidelity and SacriÅce Discover The National D-Day Memorial, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains and the town that lost the most citizens per-capita in the United States at D-Day. The Memorial honors the Americans and all of the Allied forces involved. Near The Memorial is Thomas Jefferson’s retreat Poplar Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Smith Mountain Lake and the Booker T. Washington National Monument.

Now Open Daily!

Bedford Welcome Center • Bedford, VA 877-447-3257 • www.visitbedford.com

the new world’s stunning and expansive natural beauty, and was considered “One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the Modern World.” Hard to believe, but perhaps the harmless looking little Cedar Creek really did tunnel its way through a cave in the mountain, whose roof eventually collapsed to leave only the gently flowing creek below the tall arch that now carries traffic on US 11 over the steep wide chasm.

Since the 1800s, everything but the Bridge has changed. Instead of riding a mule along a mule path, or being lowered from the top in an iron cage, you’ll stroll along the accessible nature trail. The stunning creek-side trail features tidbits of American history, a Native American Village, and besides the Bridge, another mysterious quirk of nature, Lost River.

On the trail, you’ll encounter the Monacan Indian Village where you can chat with guides who are on-site preparing meals, making tools, and more. Journey back 300 years and learn how local tribes lived, how deer, wild turkey, box turtle and elk provided ample food.

More of Mother Nature’s works are on display elsewhere on the grounds of the Natural Bridge; take a guided caverns tour to explore more of nature’s handiwork. Ten million years of water flowing, chiseling, carving and draining have created today’s caverns. As one of the east’s few “active” caves, meaning formations still grow, it houses one of the largest dome shaped masses of flowstone.And, as the east’s deepest commercial cave you’ll descend 350 feet below the surface, about 34 stories, and meander by Mirror Lake, through the Waterfall Room, the Can-

yon Room, the Wishing Well Room, and the Colossal Dome Room.

Return from down under and visit the indoor butterfly garden where hundreds of live butterflies surround you. Along a tropical planted lined

path with a reflecting pond and waterfall colorful exotic and native butterflies flutter about perching on plants, feeding stations and guests.

See them in their different stages and watch them transform from pupae to butterfly and take flight.

If you’re active duty or retired military, you can save over $10 off admission and save on hotel rates; the offers are available at eastern U.S. ITT and MWR offices.

For more information on military discounts, attractions and accommodations visit www.NaturalBridgeVA.com/military; call 800-533-1410. The Natural Bridge is on US 11, at exits 175 and 180 off I-81, and off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Welcomes Our Military. A Great Place for R&R.

Special Offer for Active Duty & Retired Military Personnel: Free Upgrade to a Natural Bridge and Caverns Combo Ticket.

Included with tickets when pre-purchased in MWR and ITT Offices with valid military ID.

• Miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, Creeper Trail, New River Trail and horseback riding trails • The longest stretch of the Crooked Road • The New River, the world’s second oldest river

• Virginia’s highest peaks: Mt. Rogers and Whitetop Mountain • Paddleing, biking, running, climbing, hiking, tubing, birding, horseback riding, fishing & more!

• Lodging establishments are available by the week or for the day. Visit our website for more info.

www.graysoncountyva.com

Just off I-81 in Virginia For more information, visit www.NaturalBridgeVA.com/Military Not available at The Natural Bridge Ticket Desk.

276-773-2471 • tourism@graysoncountyva.com • www.graysoncountyva.com

TRAVEL USA

THE GRIFFON • Summer 2012 • 69

Special Advertising Supplement

County of Bath — natural beauty and hospitality Since the 18th century, the County of Bath has attracted travelers from all over the world.Today that same gracious hospitality is still widely recognized with each village in the county offering its special brand of small town southern charm and allure. Warm Springs and Hot Springs — two particularly popular destinations — are known for their welcoming nature, courteous service and friendly folks. A stop in one of these charming villages help make your visit feel just like home — only better.

Bath County is unique.There is not a single stop light in the entire county.There is no Starbucks.There is no McDonalds.Yet, it has world class properties such as the Homestead Resort and Spa (www.thehomestead.com) and the Jefferson Pools. It is home to Garth Newel (www.garthnewel.org) a world renowned Conservatory of Chamber Music.The area is known as a four season resort with attractions such as skiing, snowboarding and skating in the winter, hiking, biking, fishing, camping and hunting, and cultural attractions throughout the remainder of the year. With Douthat State Park, Lake Moomaw, George Washington National Forest and Gathright Dam, Bath County has something for everyone.

For over 200 years the area has been defined by its natural beauty and hospitality.The county has a long history of attracting visitors hungry to enjoy the soothing waters of the natural mineral springs and the tranquil alpine vistas.The area has welcomed historical figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson,Taft, Eisenhower, Clinton and many other U.S presidents and dignitaries.

Located along the western, central border with West Virginia, Bath County encompasses 540 square miles. Eighty-nine percent of the county is forest land, with 51 percent national forest and six percent under state parks.The Nature Conservancy owns more than 9000 critical forest habitat. All of this forest land offers pristine hiking and biking trails and wonderful wildlife encounters.

Famous for its mineral springs, outdoor recreation and cultural arts, the County of Bath is a captivating four-season destination nestled in the scenic Alleghany Highlands of Virginia. Rooted in history, this picturesque mountain region continues to entice visitors with its breathtaking beauty.The County of Bath is the perfect destination for an intimate weekend getaway; a fun filled family vacation, or a private respite. From quaint inns to the luxurious Homestead Resort and Spa the County offers a variety of inviting accommodations for all types of guests (www.DiscoverBath.com). And for those who prefer the great outdoors, we also have

several campgrounds that are ideal for pitching a tent under, clear, dark, starlit skies.

Once you are here, you will find there is there is a variety of sports and recreational activities available. Play golf, lots of golf on the Homestead’s three award winning courses. If you like to fish, you can arrange a special fishing expedition on Lake Moomaw. In the winter you can enjoy skiing, tubing or ice skating.You can go hiking or mountain biking almost year round. And then of course you can soak in the famous Jefferson Pools — the oldest wooden bath houses in operation in the entire United States. Easiest of all is to bring a book and chill in the rocker on the front porch.

If you are looking for a special evening of entertainment you can visit the Garth Newel Music Center which offers great chamber music — Jazz and roots music too — along with superb dining, a friendly, informal atmosphere and breathtakingly beautiful mountain scenery.

Closer than you think, the County of Bath is but a few hours’ drive from DC, Richmond, Roanoke, or Charlotte. We are also easily accessible from several east coast airports located within these cities. Whether your fly or drive, you will enjoy the area more if you have a car to drive while you are here. Whether you are exploring the county along the winding, sinuous road that hugs the mountain or you venture out for a day trip to Jefferson’s Monticello — you will always enjoy coming back to your home away from home.

Calendar of Upcoming Events The Virginia Jazz and Blues Festival takes place June 15, 16 and 17th at the world famous Garth Newel Music Center.This year’s festival plays host to Catherine Russell,The Bert Carlson Quartet,The Honey Island Swamp Bank, Grupo Fantasma and the Robert Cray Band. More information at www.garthnewel.org or 540-839-5018.

The 9th Annual Sprint Triathlon Moomaw Madness June 23, 2012 8:00 am – 12:00pm For Registration Information: SetupEvents.com 4th Annual Air and Car Show “Wings and Wheels” August 4th, 2012 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Car Show, Acrobatic Air Show, Vendors, Food, Games, Live Music For More Information: www.DiscoverBath.com/wingsandwheels The Second Annual Harvest Moon Festival September 22, 2012 See decorated hay bales, farm tour, tractor parade, hayride, farmers market, artisan fair, music, food, dancing The Second Annual Harvest Moon Century/Metric Ride

September 22, 2012 Test your mettle as a cyclist on the mountain roads through Bath County. Visit www.DiscoverBath.

Heart Mountain Interpretive Learning Center World War II Internment Center for Relocated Japanese Americans

com/harvestmoonfestival.

Plan your next event in the County of Bath, and find something truly remarkable. (www.DiscoverBath.com).

In the Heart of the Basin Great People—Wholesome Values Agricultural Tours- See how this once barren land was transformed into fertile ground for growing.

The Homesteader Museum- A step back in time to see how homesteaders claimed the land and made it productive.

Hunting • Fishing • Camping • Hiking • Golf Area Attractions: Yellowstone National Park Bighorn Canyon National Recreational Area

800.325.4278 • www.powellchamber.org • info@powellchamber.org

ADVERTISER INDEX A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections 52

County of Kent

63

Liberty University

25

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AHIMA

15

Cypress Gardens

64

Limestone College

21

Refrigeration School, Inc.

48

Alban Tractor Company

35

Del Rio CVB

66

Mercy College

42

St. Francis College

29

All South Federal Credit Union

11

Drexel University

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19

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55

American Medical Technologists

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Apologia

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Fort Bragg Regional Alliance

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27

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2, 48

6

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

35

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13

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30

Sullivan University

72

31

Mississippi State University

40

Tioga County CVB

62

Franklin County CVB

67

National Bank of Kansas City

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28

23

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24

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8

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35

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57

Boone & Watauga County Tourism 60

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10

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5

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22

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66

Powell Valley Chamber of Commerce

69

69

The 108th Griffon Association Invites You To The Second Annual...

Tee it Up for Soldiers and Their Families Sept. 24, 2012 — Pine Island Country Club, Charlotte, NC The 108th Griffon Association is sponsoring the event and wants to invite you to participate or become a sponsor for this worthwhile endeavor.

Proceeds are to be used to: • Provide educational scholarships for Army Reserve Soldiers and members of their families • To promote family readiness and provide assistance to deployed Army Reserve Soldiers’ families • Provide assistance to Soldiers injured in action through existing charitable organizations and projects.

The 108th Griffon Association is a North Carolina non-profit 501(C)(3)corporation made up of past and present members of the 108th Training Command, a two-star Army Reserve Command with headquarters in Charlotte, NC and subordinate units spread across the US, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

For more information on the tournament, or to be a sponsor, contact The Griffon and ask for Mike Cullinane 866-761-1247 x 110.

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Coverage is individual. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko Image Š 1999-2012. Š 2012 GEICO