1. Vol. 70 No. 18 May 4, 2012
Word of the month: Sacrifice
Army,
community
leaders sign
covenantStory and photo by
Pfc. Andrew Ingram
4th Infantry Division
Public Affairs Office
Army and community leaders
reaffirmed the relationship between the
Fort Carson and Front Range commu-
nities during the signing of the Army
Community Covenant at the Colorado
Springs City Hall Wednesday.
During the ceremony, Secretary of
the Army John McHugh highlighted
the long-standing relationship of
trust and mutual support that already
exists between Fort Carson and the
surrounding communities.
“Really, this is a reaffirmation of
a partnership and friendship that has
been going on for many years,” Secretary of the Army John McHugh signs the Army Community Covenant, representing the relationship between the Soldiers of
McHugh said. “In 1942, the taxpayers Fort Carson and the people of Colorado Springs during a ceremony at the Colorado Springs City Hall Wednesday.
of this great community decided to
get together and pool their recourses, buy some said. “That is what makes the partnership with Fort McLaughlin signed the document on behalf of the
land and give it to the Army. That place is now Carson particularly special.” Soldiers and Families of Fort Carson.
known as Fort Carson. McHugh, joined by Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson, Mayor of Colorado Springs Steve Bach, Civilian
“There has been a partnership for every one of 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson commanding
See Covenant on Page 6
those 70 years that has thrived and prospered,” he general, and Garrison Commander Col. Robert F.
Vice chief of staff visits post
By Staff Sgt. Craig Cantrell specific to the post. “My goal was to see how the Family members,” Austin said.
4th Infantry Division Austin, the 33rd vice chief of staff Department of the Army might help The VCSA began a fast-paced tour
Public Affairs Office of the Army, toured the “Home of the to further the great efforts already across the post, meeting with Col.
4th Infantry Division” before attending under way here at Fort Carson, and at John McGrath, commander, Medical
Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III visited Fort the opening ceremony of the 2012 other installations Armywide, in order to Department Activity, and hospital staff at
Carson Monday to engage commanders, Warrior Games at the U.S. Olympic ensure we are doing all that we possibly
Soldiers and leaders, and discuss topics See VCSA on Page 4
Training Center in Colorado Springs. can to best support our Soldiers and
Message board INSIDE
The Fort Carson Commissary
closes at 6 p.m. Sunday. No
commissary services will be
available at Fort Carson Monday
and Tuesday as the store staff
prepares for the grand opening
of the new commissary
Wednesday at 10 a.m.
See Page 3 for more. Page 11
Page 13 Pages 22-23
2. 2 MOUNTAINEER — May 4, 2012
MOUNTAINEER
Commanding General: ICE comments Mayor
welcomes
Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson
Garrison Commander:
Col. Robert F. McLaughlin
Fort Carson Public Affairs Officer:
laud tax center
Commentary by Jean Chambers From January-April, the tax center received home
Dee McNutt Plans, Analysis and Integration Office 1,440 comments, an unprecedented amount
Chief, Print and Web Communications:
Rick Emert The Fort Carson Tax Center recently
closed out another highly successful
for the installation in a four-month period,
with a 99-percent satisfaction rate.
Bidwill attributes the high rate of
Soldiers
Editor: Devin Fisher
season serving the Fort Carson community, customer satisfaction to his top-notch staff By Steve Bach
Staff writer: Andrea Sutherland and the Interactive Customer Evaluation of assigned garrison Soldiers ranging Mayor, City of
Happenings: Nel Lampe can prove its customers’ satisfaction. from scouts to infantrymen to engineers. Colorado Springs
Sports writer: Walt Johnson Returning a total of $9,156,822 in “Taxes are scary (for taxpayers).
federal taxes and nearly $1 million in state Although we can’t control how much Dear members of
Layout/graphics: Jeanne Mazerall
taxes to the active-duty servicemembers, money customers will get back, we can “Warhorse” Brigade:
retirees and Family members make them feel comfortable Welcome home.
This commercial enterprise newspaper is it served, taxpayers are by helping them understand This letter serves to
an authorized publication for members of the
decidedly satisfied with the why returns were the way thank you all for your
Department of Defense. Contents of the service to this country.
Mountaineer are not necessarily the official
services they received at they were,” Bidwill said. “No
view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the tax center this year. matter how bad the return Your commitment to
the Department of the Army. Printed circulation According to tax center is, my Soldiers help them duty is very much
is 12,000 copies. lead, Capt. Connor Bidwill, understand what’s going on.” appreciated and you
The editorial content of the
the tax team was able to Given this customer- should be commended
Mountaineer is the responsibility of the Public for all that you
Affairs Office, Fort Carson, CO 80913-5119,
save taxpayers $672,647 focused attitude, it is easy to
Tel.: 526-4144. The e-mail address is in tax preparation services see why so many customers have done.
fcmountaineer@hotmail.com. by offering service at no provided positive feedback Colorado Springs
The Mountaineer is posted on the charge to its customers, Scanning this quick response to the program. has a long-standing
Internet at http://csmng.com.
compared to commercial code with a smartphone The tax center will be friendship with the
The Mountaineer is an unofficial military and this
publication authorized by AR 360-1. The
tax preparation services. connects Fort Carson cus- staffed through the summer
Mountaineer is printed by Colorado Springs That’s a lot of dollars. tomers to the Interactive and into the next tax season, community rallies
Military Newspaper Group, a private firm in Spending between 20 Custer Evaluation website. preparing amendments and around the men and
no way connected with the Department of the minutes to more than an hour past returns. The location will women in uniform.
Army, under exclusive written contract with
with each customer between January be the same — Barkeley Avenue, building This city is proud of
Fort Carson. It is published 49 times per year. the accomplishments
The appearance of advertising in this
and mid-April, the tax center staff of 16 1358 — and additional signage is being
publication, including inserts or supplements, Soldiers and two civilian employees created to help customers find the location. of the 2nd Brigade
does not constitute endorsement by the processed 3,193 federal returns and 2,568 For more information or to make a Combat Team, (4th
Department of the Army or Colorado Springs state returns this season as of April 17. tax preparation appointment, call Infantry Division).
Military Newspaper Group, of the products or
This is an average of 250 returns per week. 526-0322. To leave comments for the Welcome home
services advertised. The printer reserves the to you all.
right to reject advertisements.
Based on ICE comments, the volume of tax center, or any other service offered
Everything advertised in this publication satisfied customers was phenomenally high. on Fort Carson, visit http://ice.dis.mil.
shall be made available for purchase, use or
patronage without regard to race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical
handicap, political affiliation or any other
nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.
If a violation or rejection of this equal
opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed,
the printer shall refuse to print advertising
from that source until the violation is corrected.
For display advertising call 634-5905.
All correspondence or queries regarding
advertising and subscriptions should be directed
to Colorado Springs Military Newspaper
Group, 31 E. Platte Avenue, Suite 300,
Colorado Springs, CO 80903, phone 634-5905.
The Mountaineer’s editorial content is
edited, prepared and provided by the Public
Affairs Office, building 1430, room 265, Fort
Carson, CO 80913-5119, phone 526-4144.
Releases from outside sources are so
I am an American Soldier.
indicated. The deadline for submissions to the
Mountaineer is close of business the week I am a warrior and a member of a team.
before the next issue is published. The
Mountaineer staff reserves the right to edit I serve the people of the United States, and live the Army Values.
submissions for newspaper style, clarity and
typographical errors. I will always place the mission first.
Policies and statements reflected in the
news and editorial columns represent views I will never accept defeat.
of the individual writers and under no
circumstances are to be considered those of
I will never quit.
the Department of the Army.
Reproduction of editorial material is
authorized. Please credit accordingly. I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and
proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.
I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
Classified advertising
329-5236 I am an expert and I am a professional.
Display advertising I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy, the enemies of
634-5905
the United States of America in close combat.
Mountaineer editor
526-4144 I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
Post information I am an American Soldier.
526-5811
Post weather hotline
526-0096
3. May 4, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 3
Commissary opens Wednesday
By Nancy O’Nell grocery departments; an interna- customer traffic.
Defense Commissary Agency
West Public Affairs Officer
tional delicatessen and bakery;
sushi to go and rotisserie chicken.
“Every department is larger,”
said store director Rhonda
Quick facts
Sustainability and energy- Smith. “With eight more registers • 122,964-square-foot facility
Making good on a promise to saving features are priorities for and wider aisles, this store • 58,571-square-feet of sales area
• 28 checkout counters (20 regular and 8 self-checkout)
deliver a 21st century commissary DeCA, and the store meets helps us provide the high-quality • 21,000 items stocked
benefit to its customers, the Leadership in Energy and service our customers deserve • $60 million projected annual sales
Defense Commissary Agency will Environmental Design standards and have earned.” • Energy-saving design features
open its newest full-service grocery for silver certification. An Energy Many events are planned to
This project used sustainable and energy-saving design
store at Fort Carson Wednesday. Star-rated roofing system, Energy make the opening fun and provide features and meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental
The community is invited to Star-rated equipment, natural opportunities for customers to win Design standards for silver certification. Sustainable and
attend the 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting lighting in sales areas, LED prizes and save money. Grand energy design features include:
ceremony. Doors to the $18.7 lighting on refrigerated-glass- opening promotional prices will
5 Low-maintenance, polished concrete floor in sales area
million modern facility will door cases and walk-in freezers, begin Wednesday and run through 5 Natural lighting in sales area with automatic lighting
open immediately following. water-saving plumbing fixtures, Memorial Day. Products will be dimmer controls
The new store is nearly 50- non-ozone-depleting refrigerants on promotional prices at varying 5 Energy Star-rated roofing system and equipment
percent larger than the one it’s and native plants used in land- times throughout the period. 5 High-efficiency heating, ventilation and air
replacing, and it has something scaping are some of the many green Commissary vendors will conditioning systems
inside for every type of commis- technologies and features that award commissary gift cards and 5 Enhanced freezer and cooler insulation
sary shopper, according to DeCA were designed into the project. other prizes daily through 5 Non-ozone-depleting refrigerants
Director and CEO Joseph H. Jeu. About 115,000 authorized Memorial Day, with a grand prize, 5 Water-saving plumbing fixtures with automatic flush sensors
“In the design phase, we shoppers live within the Fort an automobile, to be awarded on 5 Waterless urinals
5 Automatic exterior lighting controls
considered the unique needs of Carson Commissary commuting Memorial Day. 5 Interior motion-sensor lighting controls
singles, Families and retirees area, and the Fort Carson Plans Smith recommends customers 5 Energy-efficient interior lighting fixtures
from all walks of military life,” Analysis and Integration Office shop often to take advantage of the 5 LED lighting on refrigerated glass door cases and
Jeu said. “Our customers are predicts the area’s military great prices and vendor giveaways. walk-in freezer
telling us they want a variety of population will increase by 6,700 The old Fort Carson 5 Energy-conserving night curtains on open display cases
choices when they shop. This store in the next three years, when Fort Commissary will close at 6 p.m., 5 Refrigeration monitoring and control system for
delivers on that requirement and Carson becomes home to a new Sunday. No commissary services refrigeration, HVAC, lighting and utility meters
will make every shopping trip a combat aviation brigade. will be available at Fort Carson 5 Native plants in landscaping to reduce the need for irrigation
pleasant experience.” 5 Adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings made with
The bigger commissary, Monday and Tuesday as the
compliant low-volatile organic compounds to improve
The new commissary features with 28 checkout registers, was commissary staff prepares for overall indoor air quality
extensive produce, meat and built to handle the additional the grand opening.
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4. 4 MOUNTAINEER — May 4, 2012
Top enlisted leader addresses Soldiers
Story and photo by the 14th sergeant major of the Army, Chandler “Our job is to be scouts for the secretary of the
Staff Sgt. Craig Cantrell addressed topics ranging from Army forces drawdownArmy and the chief of staff of the Army,” Chandler
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office to regulation changes and the Sexual Harassment/ said. “The past two years, we have been looking at
Assault Response and Prevention program. ourselves … and asking ourselves what we need to
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III In his opening remarks, Chandler informed the make changes on in how we train, in our leader
spoke to Fort Carson Soldiers and Family members at crowd that the questions the audience posed would development programs, the Army uniform and our
McMahon Auditorium Wednesday, as part of a three- go to the Army secretary and chief of staff to help
commitment to the American people.”
day visit to the “Home of the 4th Infantry Division.” them make informed decisions on future changes Chandler told Soldiers what to expect upon
In his first visit to Fort Carson since becoming for the Army. their next re-enlistments, and how the drawdown
would affect their career paths.
Soldiers of character, commitment and com-
petence will succeed in today’s Army, he said.
“We are not a zero-defect Army … but
when you compromise the Army Values, you
are really digging yourself into a place you do
not want to be,” Chandler said. “Can you
recover? Yes, but if you continue to display a
pattern of misconduct or unsatisfactory
performance, you are at risk.”
Chandler then opened the forum for a
question-and-answer session, where attendees
asked questions on topics such as the Army’s
Noncommissioned Officer Education System,
Physical Readiness Training, Army Combat
Uniform changes, Army SHARP program and
changes to Army regulations and policies.
“Soldiers of Fort Carson need to see the
senior enlisted leader of the Army take time
out of his busy schedule to come here and
talk to Soldiers,” said Command Sgt. Maj.
Tramell Finch, outgoing maintenance
sergeant major, logistics, 4th Inf. Div.
The meeting concluded with the sergeant
major of the Army handing out his personal
coin to 31 Fort Carson Soldiers nominated by
their units for exceptional performance.
“I am going to take the knowledge I
gained today back to my unit and share it
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III addresses Soldiers, civilians and Family members during a town hall with my Soldiers and peers,” said Spc. Jacob
meeting at McMahon Auditorium Wednesday. Chandler discussed topics ranging from Army uniform changes to the Tyler, cavalry scout, 4th Squadron, 10th
drawdown of forces and answered questions from the audience. The visit marked Chandler’s first visit to Fort Carson Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat
since being appointed the 14th Sergeant Major of the Army. Team, 4th Inf. Div.
VCSA disposition, Fort Carson priorities and
mission-related programs.
Austin received a guided tour of
the Ironhorse Fitness Center and
Harassment/Assault Response and
Prevention program.
from Page 1 Following the meeting, Austin Resiliency Campus led by Steave “I would like to say thanks to all of
visited Soldiers at an arms room at 1st Barness, chief, Recreation Division, you for what you are doing,” said Austin.
Evans Army Community Hospital for a Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Directorate of Family and Morale, “If you are a SHARP representative … a
round-table breakfast at the newly- Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., Welfare and Recreation. person that is leading in the formations,
renovated EACH dining facility. where he held a sensing session with “A great garrison team came together or just supporting the program, let me
Austin then traveled to the 4th a unit armorer. to provide this $40 million facility to thank you for what you are doing.”
Inf. Div. Headquarters building where “It was great to be at Fort Carson the Soldiers and Families of Fort Austin handed out VCSA coins to
he spoke one-on-one with Maj. Gen. today and to spend some time with our Carson to enjoy,” Barness told Austin Soldiers who attended the luncheon
Joseph Anderson, commanding leaders and Soldiers,” said Austin. “I during the walking tour of the campus. before moving on to the division
general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson. was very impressed by the facilities Fort Carson Soldiers then welcomed headquarters where Fort Carson
Anderson and his staff updated the I visited, including the resiliency and Austin to the Wolf Dining Facility to commanders assembled in the command
VCSA on the post mission, troop behavioral health centers.” eat lunch and discuss the Army Sexual conference room to discuss topics
ranging from behavioral health to the
Army Education System.
“It was great to be “The overall impression from the
junior enlisted Soldiers that attended
at Fort Carson the discussion is that the senior
leadership cares and is genuinely con-
today and to cerned about the prevention of sexual
harassment and sexual assault,” said
Sgt. 1st Class Vanessa Kennedy, equal
spend some time opportunity leader/SHARP adviser,
Headquarters and Headquarters
with our leaders Battalion, 4th Inf. Div.
After spending time with leaders
and Soldiers.” and Soldiers at Fort Carson, Austin
— Army Vice Chief of Staff participated in the opening ceremony
of the 2012 Warrior Games.
Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III
The Warrior Games showcases
200 wounded warriors from the Army,
Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson, center, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast
commanding general, 4th Infantry Guard and U.S. Special Operations
Division and Fort Carson, discusses the Command competing in seven
post mission, troop disposition, priorities Olympic-style events.
and mission-related programs with Vice “These Soldiers demonstrate extra-
Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Lloyd J. ordinary courage and determination,”
Austin III, left, during his visit Monday. said Austin. “They represent the Army
Photo by Staff Sgt. Craig Cantrell and we’re really proud of them.”
5. May 4, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 5
Town hall opens window of communication
Story and photo by on the community.
Samantha B. Koss “It’s really an honor to be able to
Special to the Mountaineer work with all of our military instal-
lations here,” Clark said. “We appre-
Fort Carson leadership and ciate (Fort Carson’s) partnership …
the Pikes Peak Area Council of we appreciate the open dialogue and
Governments held a partnership coordination that we have.”
town hall April 26 to provide the Clark also serves as chair of
community an opportunity to the PPACG, which helps maintain
communicate openly with military military-community partnership
leaders. and ensures ongoing regional
The group discussed issues coordination and collaboration to
affecting the local area and ideas meet the needs of Fort Carson.
of how the Colorado Springs Fort Carson has partnered with
community and Fort Carson can PPACG for the last several years,
work together to support Soldiers providing the community with
and Families while meeting the updates on installation activities,
community’s needs. particularly the impacts of growth
“We appreciate all of your and ongoing deployments.
support,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph About 2,700 Soldiers and
Anderson, commanding general, 4,000 Family members will arrive
4th Infantry Division and Fort to Fort Carson next spring with the
Carson. “Our goal is to be tied addition of a combat aviation
to this community.” brigade. Growth such as this and
Anderson provided information Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, provided deployments affect the housing
to the Colorado Springs community information to the Colorado Springs community on Fort Carson activities, including growth, industry, schools and other services
on Fort Carson activities, including deployments and the community’s response to the post’s needs April 26 during the partnership in the community, she said.
growth, deployments and the com- town hall meeting at Centennial Hall in downtown Colorado Springs. “We are very supportive of our
munity’s response to the post’s needs. military here,” Clark said. “And we
“Our goal is to be transparent The Pikes Peak region has five has a large military influence. will continue to support our men and
to you, responsible to you, accountable major military installations with more Commissioner Sallie Clark, vice women in uniform and those veterans
to you (and) to be good stewards and than 40,000 active-duty service- chair, El Paso County Board of who have served our country as well as
partners in this community,” Anderson members. Anderson said that partnership Commissioners, spoke on behalf of the the Families who are left behind many
said to the group. “That is not a bumper with the community is important for Colorado Springs community and times and need to figure out how to
sticker, that is the truth.” an area like Colorado Springs which addressed impacts Fort Carson has manage when deployments happen.”
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6. 6 MOUNTAINEER — May 4, 2012
Covenant
McHugh dines with Army athletes
Story and photo by
from Page 1
Aide to the Secretary of the Army
William Hybl and Colorado
Andrea Sutherland Springs City Councilman Scott
Mountaineer staff Hente signed the covenant on behalf
of the citizens and government of
In the cafeteria at the Olympic Colorado Springs.
Training Center in Colorado Springs, Fort Carson and Colorado
Secretary of the Army John McHugh Springs leaders signed a covenant
took his seat among the elite group of in 2009. By signing a new
Soldier athletes. covenant, Bach, the newly-elected
Over lunch, McHugh asked seven mayor, and Anderson reaffirmed
Soldiers why they joined the military, the importance of strong ties
how they started competing in their between the two communities.
respective sport and how their training in “As we celebrate this partner-
the Army’s World Class Athlete Program ship, I am truly humbled by the
has helped their careers. commitment this community
“The kind of qualities you have to bring provides on a daily basis to our
as world class athletes — the discipline military men and women,”
and work ethic — are the same qualities Anderson said. “The outstanding
you possess as Soldiers,” McHugh said. support here is unequaled by
“It’s not something you can switch Secretary of the Army John McHugh, center, talks with Sgt. 1st Class Dremiel Byers, anywhere else I’ve been.
off, sir,” said Sgt. 1st Class Dremiel right, about his exercise regimen, Tuesday. McHugh dined with seven Army athletes “Your continued support is
Byers, a wrestler with the WCAP pro- at the Olympic Training Center, wishing them luck as they trained for the 2012 essential to our success in fighting
gram and competitor in the 2012 Olympic Olympic Games in London. and winning our nation’s wars, and
Games in London. we are extremely grateful for
Byers earned his spot on the U.S. Olympic Team April 20 A race walker, Nunn qualified for the Olympic team in everything you do,” he said.
at the 2012 Olympic Team Trials held in Iowa City, Iowa, in January by winning the 50-kilometer Race Walk in 4 hours, Bach, who settled in Colorado
the Greco-Roman championship series. He placed seventh 4 minutes, 41 seconds. He’ll compete in the event in London. Springs after serving as an
in the event at the 2008 Olympic Games. Nunn said that it was an honor to meet McHugh. artilleryman at Fort Carson, said the
Wrestlers Sgt. Spenser Mango and Spc. Justin Lester “It was humbling,” he said. covenant is a physical representation
also qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team. “He seemed personable,” said Sgt. 1st Class Keith of the residents of Colorado
At lunch, Byers and the other athletes told McHugh Sanderson, WCAP athlete and Team USA Shooting team Springs’ commitment to the Soldiers
about their training schedules and shared stories about their member. “He wanted to know our stories. It’s nice to know and Families of Fort Carson.
time in the Army. that someone of his caliber cares. It means a lot.” “On behalf of our city … I just
Staff Sgt. John Nunn, a WCAP athlete, told McHugh Sanderson qualified in the men’s rapid fire pistol event want to express how much we
the story of when he beat everyone in his unit during their in which he placed fifth in the 2008 Olympic Games. respect all of our military, the U.S.
two-mile physical training run. While the other Soldiers As McHugh and the athletes finished their lunch, he Army, the 4th Inf. Div. and all the
ran, Nunn said he walked, finishing the two miles in less offered his congratulations to the Olympians and wished people who serve and sacrifice so
than 13 minutes. them luck. much for us,” Bach said. “I hope
“That’s like driving your Corvette and getting passed by “We’re awful proud of you,” he said. “Just to make the you know that your fellow citizens
a little old lady,” said McHugh, laughing. Olympic team, I’d say you are all heroes.” here love you very much.”
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8. 8 MOUNTAINEER — May 4, 2012
SFAT 38 constructs Soldiers hang up berets
operations center
By 2nd Lt. Adam Mancini Sgt. Douglas Hurst, fire support noncom-
Mountaineer staff
Thirteen Soldiers were
1st STB, 1st Brigade
Combat Team, 4th
Inf. Div.
Security Force Assistance Team 38, missioned officer, Headquarters and Head- honored for their service • 1st. Lt. Steve Bailey,
3rd Brigade Combat Team, quarters Troop, 3rd Special Troops Battalion, to the nation during a 43rd SB
4th Infantry Division 3rd BCT, assisted Colbert with the project. retirement ceremony • Chief Warrant Officer 3
Easily the team’s biggest member at 6 feet April 25 at the Special Jack Trammell,
FORWARD OPERATING BASE 6 inches tall and weighing 300 pounds, the Events Center. 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
ZANGABAD, Afghanistan — Security Forces former football defensive end from the Idaho Soldiers, Family and • 1st. Sgt. Henry Davis,
Assistance Team 38 began construction of the State Bengals added brawn and brains to the friends gathered to celebrate 1st Bn., 66th Armor
U.S.-Afghan Combined Tactical Operations building of the TOC. A handyman in his own the closing moments of the Regiment, 1st BCT,
Center at Forward Operating Base Zangabad, right, Hurst also worked as a carpenter during Soldiers’ Army careers as 4th Inf. Div.
located in the Horn of Panjwai’i, Kandahar college to pay for school. they were presented their • Sgt. 1st Class Donald
Province, Afghanistan, April 23. “It builds camaraderie among the forces military decorations and Kerns, 4th Squadron,
U.S. and Afghan National Army Soldiers, for the future of Afghanistan,” said Hurst. U.S. flags that had been 10th Cavalry Reg.,
as well as Afghan National Civil Order Police, “The lack of tools, lumber and other flown over Fort Carson. The 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
will operate the TOC, developing working resources proved to be a difficult challenge, Soldiers’ spouses received • Sgt. 1st Class Paul
relationships between the ANA and ANCOP but the team ultimately prevailed,” he said. certificates of appreciation Coulter, Headquarters and
battalion staffs, and mentoring security force 1st Lt. Jared Moore, HHT, 4th Squadron, and a rose in recognition Headquarters Company,
leaders to run their sections more effectively 10th Cavalry Reg., and 2nd Lt. Robert Pedrigi, of their service. 4th BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
and efficiently. HHC, 1st Bn., 8th Inf. Reg., designed the Those retiring were: • Sgt. 1st Class Edward
Spc. Jason Colbert, combat medic serving operations center, developing the blueprints and • Col. Andrew Kosmowski, McClyment, 4th
on the SFAT, Headquarters and Headquarters plans for the two experienced carpenters to work. U.S. Army Medical Engineer Bn.
Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, “I gave Moore and Pedrigi an important Department Activity • Staff Sgt. James Seybert,
3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry assignment to create a plan for the combined • Lt. Col. Daniel Parker, 759th Military Police Bn.
Division, led the construction of the combined TOC, and they exceeded my expectations,” 43rd Sustainment Brigade • Sgt. Sheila Huffman,
TOC, erecting three A-frame style wooden said Capt. Brian Murdock, team leader, SFAT • Lt. Col. Cynthia Shue, 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
easels, a large table and a wall to the front of the 38, and company commander, HHT, 4th Headquarters and
tent within the first 48 hours of the project. Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg. “I think it will allow us Headquarters Battalion, The next Fort Carson
“I realize that my day-to-day duties to work (side-by-side) with our counterparts. 4th Infantry Division monthly post
encompass a wide range of skillsets to make Once the ANCOP move into the combined • Lt. Col. Kevin retirement
the mission here more successful,” said TOC along with the ANA, it will be very Wesolowski, ceremony
Colbert. “When I was younger, I worked beneficial to work with both ANSF partners.” U.S. Army takes place
alongside my older brother, Jeff, during the The 3rd BCT Soldiers completed the TOC Garrison May 30 at
summer as a carpenter, and it feels great to in three days. Fort Carson 10 a.m. at
use those skills to help out the team today “Our group is comprised of team players • Maj. David Founders
to build a facility that will benefit both who are willing to step up and complete any Holloway, Field.
International Security Assistance Forces and mission I give them, and I am proud to be
our Afghan National Security Force partners.” the team leader,” said Murdock.
www.montessorichild.com
9. May 4, 2012 — MOUNTAINEER 9
Miscellaneous Fort Carson dining facilities hours of operation
Supply class — The Command Evaluation and Dining facility Friday Saturday-Sunday Monday-Thursday
Training Team will hold a Unit Supply Operations Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
class May 17 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the education Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
center, building 1117. The class will focus on the Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
Supply CSDP checklist and go over supply Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
procedures and trends. Contact Rene Ayon at Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
503-0172 or email atrene.a.ayon.ctr@mail.mil to Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m. Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
register. The target audience is supply sergeants
and clerks; supply officers are welcome. Walk-ins Warfighter Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
will be accepted. (Wilderness Road Complex) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Self-Help Weed Control Program — Department of Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
Defense regulations require training for people LaRochelle Breakfast: 7-9 a.m. Closed Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
applying pesticides on military installations. Units 10th SFG(A) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
interested in participating in the program must Dinner: Closed Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
send Soldiers for training on the proper handling,
transportation and application of herbicides. Once Carson. Services range from repair and maintenance processes to include turning in excess property,
individuals are properly trained by the Directorate of facilities to equipping units with a sweeper and reutilizing government property, web-based tools
of Public Works base operations contractor, cleaning motor pools. Listed below are phone available, special handling of property and
Soldiers can be issued the appropriate products numbers and points of contact for services: environmental needs. To schedule an orientation,
and equipment so units can treat weeds in rocked • Facility repair/service orders — Fort contact Arnaldo Borrerorivera at arnaldo.
areas around their unit facilities. Weed control Carson Support Services service order desk can be borrerorivera@dla.mil for receiving/turn in; Mike
training sessions for Soldiers are available the first reached at 526-5345. Use this number for emergencies Welsh at mike.welsh@dla.mil for reutilization/web
and third Monday of the month, May-September, or routine tasks and for reporting wind damage, tools; or Rufus Guillory at rufus.guillory@dla.mil.
from 10 a.m. to noon in building 3708. Products damaged traffic signs or other facility damage. Retirement briefings — are held from 8 a.m. to noon
and equipment will be available for Soldiers on a • Refuse/trash and recycling — Call Eric the second and third Wednesday of each month at
hand receipt. Each unit may send up to five people Bailey at 719-491-0218 or email eric.e.bailey4. the Joel Hefley Community Center conference room,
for training. Call 492-0166 for more information. civ@mail.mil when needing trash containers, trash 6800 Prussman Ave. The Retirement Services Office
Finance travel processing — All inbound and is overflowing or emergency service is required. recommends spouses accompany Soldiers to the
outbound Temporary Lodging Expense, “Do it • Facility custodial services — Call Bryan briefing. Call 526-2840 for more information.
Yourself ” Moves, servicemember and Family Dorcey at 526-6670 or email bryan.s.dorcey.civ@ Reassignment briefings — are held Tuesdays
member travel, travel advance pay and travel pay mail.mil for service needs or to report complaints. for Soldiers heading overseas and Thursdays for
inquiries will be handled in building 1218, room 231. • Elevator maintenance — Call Bryan personnel being reassigned stateside. The briefings
Call 526-4454 or 524-2594 for more information. Dorcey at 526-6670 or email bryan.s.dorcey.civ are held in building 1129, Freedom Performing Arts
First Sergeants’ Barracks Program — is located in @mail.mil. Center; sign-in is at 7 a.m. and briefings start at 7:30
building 1454 on Nelson Boulevard. The hours of • Motor pool sludge removal/disposal — a.m. Soldiers are required to bring Department
operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Call Dennis Frost at 526-6997 or email of the Army Form 5118, signed by their unit
office assists Soldiers with room assignments and dennis.j.frost.civ@mail.mil. personnel section, and a pen to complete forms.
terminations. For more information call 526-9735. • Repair and utility/self-help — Call Gary Call 526-4730/4583 for more information.
Sergeant Audie Murphy Club — The Fort Carson Grant at 526-5844 or email gerald.l.grant2.civ Army ROTC Green to Gold briefings — are held
Sergeant Audie Murphy Club meets the third @mail.mil. Use this number to obtain self-help the first and third Tuesday of each month at noon
Tuesday of each month at the Family Connection tools and equipment or a motorized sweeper. at the education center, building 1117, room 120.
Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The SAMC is • Base operations contracting officer Call University of Colorado-Colorado Springs
open to all active members and those interested in representative — Call Terry Hagen at 526-9262 Army ROTC at 262-3475 for more information.
becoming future SAMC members. The club was or email terry.j.hagen.civ@mail.mil for questions ETS briefings — for enlisted personnel are held the
originally a U.S. Forces Command organization of on snow removal, grounds maintenance and first and third Wednesday of each month. Briefing
elite noncommissioned officers but is now an contractor response to service orders. sign in begins at 7 a.m. at the Soldier Readiness
Armywide program for individuals who have met • Portable latrines — Call Jerald Just at Building, building 1042, room 244, on a first-come,
the criteria and have proven themselves to be 524-0786 or email jerald.j.just.civ@mail.mil to first-served basis. Soldiers must be within 120 days
outstanding NCOs through a board/leadership request latrines, for service or to report damaged of their expiration term of service, but must attend
process. Contact the SAMC president, Staff Sgt. or overturned latrines. the briefing no later than 30 days prior to their ETS
Thomas Witt, at 526-5661 for more information. The Fort Carson Trial Defense Service office — is or start of transition leave. Call 526-2240/8458.
Command Evaluation and Training Team — able to help Soldiers 24/7 and is located at building Special Forces briefings — are held Wednesdays in
COMET provides commanders at all levels with a 1430, room 240. During duty hours, Soldiers should building 1430, room 123, from noon to 1 p.m.
responsive maintenance and supply assessment and call 526-4563. The 24-hour phone number for after Soldiers must be specialist to staff sergeant from any
training tool that improves the combat effectiveness, hours, holidays and weekends is 719-358-3275. military occupational specialty, have a general
readiness and efficiency of their units’ logistical Questions can also be submitted by email to technical score of at least 107, be a U.S. citizen, score
programs. The team identifies supply and mainte- FtCarsonTDS@gmail.com. Know your rights. 240 or higher on the Army Physical Fitness Test, and
nance weaknesses and problems, and provides Legal services — provided at the Soldier Readiness pass a Special Forces physical. Call 524-1461 or
individual and unit reinforcement training based on Processing site are for Soldiers undergoing the SRP visit the website at http://www.bragg.army.mil/sorb.
assessments. Results remain confidential for the unit process. The SRP Legal Office will only provide
commander only. COMET provides assistance in powers of attorney or notary services to Soldiers Hours of Operation
the majority of maintenance and supply management processing through the SRP. Retirees, Family
areas with one-on-one training, and by conducting members and Soldiers not in the SRP process can • In-processing — Monday-Thursday from
follow-up visits. The team also conducts classes to receive legal assistance and powers of attorney at the 7:30-10:30 a.m.
help strengthen supply skills and improve mainte- main legal office located at 1633 Mekong St., • Initial and partial issues — Monday-
nance readiness. Contact Tim Howarth at 503-3095 building 6222, next to the Family Readiness Center. Friday from 12:30-3:30 p.m.
or thomas.howarth3.ctr@mail.mil for information. Legal assistance prepares powers of attorney and • Cash sales/report of survey — Monday-
Recycle incentive program — The Directorate of performs notary services on a walk-in basis from Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Public Works has an incentive program to prevent 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Wednesdays and • Direct exchange and partial turn ins —
recyclable waste from going to the landfill. Fridays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays. Monday-Friday from 7:30-11:30 a.m.
Participating battalions can earn monetary rewards • Full turn ins — by appointment only; call
for turning recyclable materials in to the Fort Carson Briefings 526-3321.
Recycle Center, building 155. Points are assigned for • Unit issues and turn ins — Call 526-
the pounds of recyclable goods turned in and every Casualty Notification/Assistance Officer training — 5512/6477 for approval.
participating battalion receives money quarterly. Call is held May 15-17 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Education Center hours of operation — The
526-5898 for more information about the program. Grant Library. This training is required for all Mountain Post Training and Education Center,
Directorate of Public Works services — DPW is Soldiers asked to perform this solemn duty. Per building 1117, 526-2124, hours are as follows:
responsible for a wide variety of services on Fort Army Regulation 600-8-1, this duty is limited to • Counselor Support Center — Monday-
those in the ranks of sergeant first class to command Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fridays 11
sergeant major, chief warrant officer 2-5 and a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
BOSS meetings captain and above. No reservations are required to • Army Learning Center — Monday-
are held at 10 a.m. attend training. Classes offered on a first-come, Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
the first and third first-served basis. Call Jean Graves at 526-5613/ • Defense Activity for Nontraditional
Wednesday of each 5614 for more information. Education Support and Army Personnel
month at the Foxhole. Disposition Services — Defense Logistics Agency Testing — Monday-Friday 7:30-11:30 a.m. and
For information, call Disposition Services Colorado Springs, located in 12:30-4:30 p.m.
524-BOSS. building 381, conducts orientations Fridays from Repair and Utility self-help — has moved to building
12:30-3:30 p.m. The orientations discuss DLA 217 and is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
10. 10 MOUNTAINEER — May 4, 2012
Sacrifice deserves
ultimate respect
Story and photos by
Sgt. Andrea Merritt
brigade was counting on me. I didn’t
want to fail.”
7th Public Affairs Detachment Upon arriving in Afghanistan, Acevedo
reached out to the mortuary affairs staff at
KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan Bagram Air Field for guidance on how
— In Hollywood, people in professions to run his shop effectively.
that deal with the deceased are often In addition to creating stan-
portrayed as creeps in black clothing, dard operating procedures, he
oddball loners with morbid senses also formed and trained two
of humor or forensic geniuses teams to aid in recovering
who help crack the case. and processing remains.
For members of the He was also fortunate
mortuary affairs team on enough to have another
Forward Operating Base Fenty, mortuary affairs specialist
there is nothing “Hollywood” in his unit, who was
about their job. It is simply part able to assist with the
of their commitment to never workload.
leave a fallen comrade. “I work with (the
“This job is a way to pay vertical transporta-
respect to our fallen heroes, tion and construction
bottom line,” said Staff Sgt. aviation section
Ramon Acevedo, noncommissioned during the day),
officer-in-charge of Mortuary scheduling flights,
Affairs, 704th Brigade Support and with mortuary
Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat affairs, I am on
Team, 4th Infantry Division. call,” said Spc.
“They gave their all for our Sasha Santiago.
freedom,” said Acevedo, “and to Previously,
help put the Family members at ease, Santiago served
I do my part to get their loved one as an engineer,
back to them.” but decided to Spc. Sasha Santiago, mortuary affairs specialist, 704th Brigade
For most of his 14-year Army career, change her military Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division,
Acevedo worked an administrative job in the occupational specialty helps set up a Fallen Soldier Memorial April 23 in front of the
Army’s personnel field, but he decided five years to mortuary affairs a year ago. Forward Operating Base Fenty Mortuary Affairs Office in the Kunar
ago to change his occupation to mortuary affairs. “I wanted to do something different. province of Afghanistan.
During advanced individual training, Acevedo They offered me other jobs, but nothing
learned the basics of properly handling the remains sounded interesting,” Santiago said. documentation is filled out properly, and Acevedo
and personal effects of the fallen, to include the “My perception has changed since taking this ensures the remains are handled properly.
process for preparing, preserving and returning job,” Santiago said. “I see a different side. It’s about Although both Acevedo and Santiago are trained
Soldiers to their loved ones. bringing closure to Families and helping out your to deal with certain things they may see, there are
He also conducted follow-on training at a civilian battle buddy.” times when the job can be difficult.
morgue in Richmond, Va., before going to Dover Air Primarily, the mortuary affairs team on FOB “So far, the hardest one is when I had to go
Force Base, Del., to get more training. Fenty processes the remains of U.S. servicemembers, through the pockets and inventory the personal
At Dover, the mortuary affairs specialists learned Department of Defense contractors and civilians, effects, and (the fallen Soldier) had pictures of his
to follow the remains of one specific servicemember third country nationals and Afghan National Security Family and kids,” Acevedo said.
through the entire process, starting with identification Forces personnel. A father of two, Acevedo said the event really
and ending with the autopsy, Acevedo said. Since the mortuary affairs shop on FOB Fenty is hit home, but also served as affirmation that he
Although he has deployed before, Acevedo said a transient station, the team’s primary duty is to chose the right job.
this is his first deployment as a mortuary affairs document the condition of the remains, inventory For Acevedo and Santiago, serving in the mortuary
NCO, and admits the thought of running the shop personal effects and to prepare the fallen for transport affairs field is a way for them to help bring closure
made him nervous. to Bagram Air Field. to Families who lose a loved one in combat, and
“In (personnel), it was a different type of Santiago is in charge of making sure all also a way to pay respect to the Soldiers who make
environment. The struc- the ultimate sacrif ice
ture was really different,” for their country.
Acevedo said. “There “They gave their all
was specific guidance on to defend our way of life,
how to do everything, and we respect that,”
and then we would file it Acevedo said. “We give
through an officer. our undivided attention
“In (mortuary affairs), to them by making sure
I’m on my own. I didn’t everything is done right.
think I would be able to do We want to give closure
it,” he said. “I was the only to the Families — that is
one, and the whole the main goal.”
Mortuary Affairs Soldiers
from the 704th Brigade
Support Battalion, 4th
Brigade Combat Team,
4th Infantry Division, set
up a Fallen Soldier
Memorial April 23 in front
of their office on Forward
Operating Base Fenty,
located in the Kunar
province of Afghanistan.