Rail Gunner Newsletter January 2013

The Rail Gunner Newsletter
VOLUME 5 THE RAIL GUNNER NEWSLETTER ISSUE 1

Inside this
issue
Message from 2
RG6/RG9

Small Community Big on 3
Giving
Celebration of Lights 4
41st Fires Bde. celebrates 5
St. Barbara
Dalhart Texas Honors 7
Veterans

Del Harris visits with 8
Rail Gunners

Rail Gunners Return 9
Home

Settling into Home 10
Teen receive extreme 11 Capt. Clifford Pullig, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery commander, 2nd Battalion,
look into Army life 20th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Fires Brigade, hands off a box of toys donated to the
Families of the brigade by the communities within Leon County, Texas, Dec. 12.
Ft. Hood fighter no 13
lightweight

Story and photos by Gary Maples and his wife
Sgt. Garett Hernandez Susan transported the trucks full of
41st Fires Brigade, PAO
toys. The Maples drove the 240 mile
The Rail Gunner Leon County is located about round trip three times with the help
Monthly Staff half way between Houston and Dallas of a few of their friends.
Commander on Interstate 45 and has a population The second load of donated
COL William E. McRae toys contained over 5,000 toys. The
of approximately 16,000 people, ac-
Command Sgt. Maj.
CSM Antonio Dunston cording to the 2010 census. Wal-Mart Distribution center in Pal-
Rail Gunner PAO The people of that county came estine, Texas, donated the toys to
NCOIC together to donate thousands of toys Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA),
SGT Garett Hernandez to the Soldiers of the 41st Fires Bri- explained Gary. The VVA then heard
gade, Dec. 12. they were donating toys to the 41st

Continues on pg. 3

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1 THE RAIL GUNNER NEWSLETTER JANUARY 2013

Rail Gunner 6 & 9 Send
private, we must to be relentless in our
pursuit of excellence.
Command Sergeant Major Dun-
ston and I have every confidence that our
Soldiers and Families will meet and exceed
established standards. I am confident that,
because of the time and energy put in here
at home station, the Soldiers that we send
out will be able to succeed at any mission
they are given. I know every Rail Gunner
will make us proud.
Again, welcome back and con-
tinue to press hard in our enduring pursuit
of excellence.

RAIL GUNNER STRONG!

Colonel Command Sergeant Major
William E. McRae Antonio Dunston
41st Fires Brigade CDR 41st Fires Brigade CSM
Rail Gunners, Family and Friends, Happy Hopefully everyone had a good
New Year! holiday season. Col. McRae and I would
Command Sgt. Major Dunston like to wish everyone in the Rail Gunner
and I would like to welcome everyone Family a happy New Year.
back to work. We hope you were able to Now that the half day schedule
enjoy the holidays and spend some time has ended it’s time to train again. It’s time
with Family and friends. With the holi- for the Noncommissioned Officers of the
day season behind us, it is time to move brigade to start kicking their training
forward with a “hit the ground running” schedules into high gear. It is up to our
mind set. Combat readiness is my number fine NCOs to ensure that the Soldiers
one priority! meet the training objectives.
I am certain that this New Year I would challenge every one of
will be both a challenging and rewarding our NCOs to strive for excellence and to
time for our extended Rail Gunner Team help your Soldiers achieve excellence.
as different elements prepare for upcom- After all, your Soldiers are reflections of
ing deployments and rotations to our you. Help your Soldiers reach their full
Combat Training Centers. In order to set potential whether that means going from
the conditions for success, it is imperative passing their APFT to maxing it, or train-
that as an organization, we continue to ing your Soldiers in duty positions that
hone our skills and build upon the already are new to them. As an NCO you should
solid teams we have formed. also be willing to improve yourself.
This will often require long We, as an organization, can’t
hours and lots of hard work. Now is the maintain excellence if we don’t continue
time to regain our focus and composure to improve. Once again the Colonel and I
when it comes to training and individual would like to welcome you back and wish
readiness. This holds true for every you a happy New Year.
member of the team. Across the organi-
zation, from the Brigade Command Ser- RAIL GUNNER STRONG!
geant Major and myself to our newest

The “Rail Gunner Monthly” is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of the “Rail
Gunner Monthly” are not necessarily official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government, Department of De-
fense, Department of the Army or the 41st Fires Brigade. All editorial content of this publication is prepared, ed-
ited, provided and approved by the 41st Fires Brigade Public Affairs Office. If you have any questions, comments,
concerns or suggestions contact the 41st Fires Brigade PAO office at 254-287-0739 or email ga-
rett.m.hernandez.mil@mail.mil. Check out the unit’s Website at http://www.hood.army.mil/41stFires or on Face-
book for additional information.


Soldiers from across the 41st Fires Brigade sort toys first by gender then by age before dividing the toys between the battalions
of the brigade, Dec. 12. The toys were collected by the communities within Leon County, Texas and donated to the Families of
the 41st Fires Brigade, Dec. 12.

Fires Bde., and gave them the Bde. mond Griffin, a Field Artillery
toys to donate, explained Maples. The toys and money for Automated Tactical Data Systems
Gary and Susan are Veter- the toys were collected by busi- Specialist with Headquarters and
ans Service Officers and work as nesses in Leon County, Texas, Headquarters Battery, 41st Fires
a team to help veterans of Leon Gary Maples explained. They Bde., who received toys for his
County gain access to their bene- collected over $3,500 to buy toys five children.
fits. Both Gary and Susan Maples for the unit. “It’s something that we
served in the Navy. The toys were given to just want to do to give back. You
Col. William McRae and the Soldiers who have children guys are on the frontlines, fight-
Command Sgt. Major Antonio throughout the brigade to en- ing for our freedoms and we just
Dunston, commander and com- sure the kids would have a want to support you,” said Mr.
mand sergeant major of the 41st merry Christmas. Maples.
Fires Bde., were both on hand to “It makes me feel good The Soldiers of the Rail
receive the toys for the unit. seeing that people do care…it’s Gunner Brigade send a huge
This is the sixth year that nice knowing that people care thank you to all those who do-
the communities of Leon County enough to take the time to buy a nated gifts and their time.
have come together to donate toys gift and donate to Soldiers. It is
to the Families of the 41st Fires a good feeling,” said Spc. Ray-


(Left) Soldiers and civilians light candles on menorahs during the seventh night of Chanukah. Soldiers from across Fort Hood
and community members from the surrounding area gather at the Spirit of Ft. Hood Warrior and Family Chapel Campus for a
Chanukah celebration, Dec. 14. (Right) Chaplain Capt. Karyn Berger, the Ft. Hood Rabbi, 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery
Regiment, 41st Fires Brigade leads the congregation in prayer after lighting seven candles on menorah.

Story by the temple. Instead of waiting for have a much larger congregation,”
Sgt. Garett Hernandez more oil to be made, the Macca- said Spc. Daniel Najera from A
bees lit the menorah and rededi- Battery, 26th Field Artillery Regi-
cated the Temple that day. The ment (Target Acquisition Bat-
The Jewish Congregation oil miraculously lasted all eight tery), 41st Fires Brigade. “This is
of Ft. Hood held its annual Cha- nights, added Berger. my first time being away from
nukah party at the Spirit of Ft. The celebration started Family celebrating Hanukkah.”
Hood Warrior and Family Chapel when the lights were turned off in The services were not only
Campus, Dec. 14. the room. Then one by one the open to Soldiers and their Fami-
Chanukah, the Jewish candles were lit on the menorahs. lies, but also open to anyone in
celebration of lights, commemo- As the candles were being lit the surrounding communities
rates two miracles, explained Rabbi Berger began to sing. As that wanted to attend. Capt. Ber-
Chaplain Capt. Karyn Berger, the the room filled with candle light it ger is one of only 12 Rabbis
Ft. Hood Rabbi, 2nd Battalion, also filled with song as more and within the Army.
20th Field Artillery Regiment, more people joined in singing. On “Without the Army we
41st Fires Brigade. The first is this night seven candles would be would not have a congregation
the victory of a small group of lit on the menorahs marking the here,” said Aaron Beal who came
freedom fighters, the Maccabees, seventh day of the celebration. from College Station visiting his
who prevailed against over- Following the lighting of parents.
whelming odds to defeat an op- the menorahs there was Shabba The congregation has over
pressive regime and took back the Services after which the food was 20 members, made up of Soldiers
Jewish temple. served. Rabbi Berger explains and civilians from the surround-
After returning to their that during the eight day period ing communities.
temple, the Maccabees discovered that fried foods are typically “My Family is away and
only one cruse of oil remained to eaten to commemorate the mira- the food is different, but all Jews
light the ancient menorah and cle of Hanukkah. Foods such as are Family. So I’m not really
rededicate the temple. The oil potato pancakes and donuts are
that was left was only enough for away from Family, I just accepted
traditional.
only one night of light, when eight “It’s really a blessing to a new one,” said Spc. Najera.
nights were needed to rededicate


Story by making of the traditional artillery induction into the Order of Saint
Sgt. Garett Hernandez punch known as grog. Barbara, six spouses were
The grog was made by inducted into the Order of Molly
senior noncommissioned officers Pitcher; Jay Norman, Lorena
from the brigade. Each senior Cantillo, Jessica Pullig, Laura
NCO wore a comical costume and Glielmi, Megan Mendenhall, and
made a theatrical entrance into Tiffany Trepanier. Only civilians
the banquet hall to add his or her who have significantly
ingredient to the grog. Each NCO contributed to their Field
explained what the added Artillery or Air Defense Artillery
ingredient symbolizes to the field community are inducted into the
artillery. Order of Molly Pitcher.
After demonstrating Mary Ludwig, also
New inductees into the Order of St. Bar- exemplary service to field known as Molly, was married to
bara raise a glass of grog to toast their artillery, 23 Rail Gunners William Hays, an artilleryman in
membership into the order during the received a formal induction into the Continental Army. During the
41st Fires Brigade’s annual St. Barbara
Day Ball, held at the Killeen Civic and
the Order of St. Barbara battle of Monmouth, Mary
Conference Center, Nov. 30. “The new members of the brought pitchers of water to her
order were selected for their collapsed husband and heated
Every year artillerymen outstanding contributions to field cannons. She took his place
gather in the name of the corps’ artillery,” said Maj. Charles swabbing and loading the cannon.
patron saint, St. Barbara. Kean, 41st Fires Brigade After the battle, General
This year the 41st Fires executive officer and master of George Washington issued Mary
Brigade held its St. Barbara’s ceremonies during the ball. a warrant as a noncommissioned
Day Ball at the Killeen Civic and The new inductees then officer, earning her the nickname
Conference Center, on November raised a glass of traditional “Sergeant Molly.”
30th. artillery punch to toast their “We have seen field
According to the website induction into the order. artillery units not only provide
Catholic.org, Barbara was Along with the fire support but also be battle
sentenced to death after defying
her father. As her executioner,
also her father, made his way
home after the beheading, he was
struck by lightning and his body
destroyed by flames.
With the introduction of
gunpowder into Europe, St.
Barbara quickly became the
patron saint of artillerymen.
Early artillery pieces were known
to explode before being fired, and
artillerymen would pray to St.
Barbara for protection.
With the ball officially
underway and dinner served, the
lights were dimmed for a
recounting of the history of field Sgt. Maj. Glen Franklin, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, brigade operations
artillery within America. The sergeant major, adds his ingredient to the traditional artillery punch during the 41st
history lesson then kicked off the Fires Brigade’s annual St. Barbara Day Ball, Nov. 30. Franklin added cognac to the
grog to symbolize the French contributions to America.


Maj. Gen. Anthony Ierardi, Commander, 1st Cavalry Division, receives a wooden model of a Multiple Launch
Rocket System from Col. William McRae during the 41st Fires Brigade’s St. Barbara Day Ball at the Killeen
Civic and Conference Center, Nov. 30.

space owners,” said Maj. Gen. the 41st Fires Brigade “The brigade had a
Anthony Ierardi, Commander, 1st Commander, Col. William McRae successful event,” said Maj.
Cavalry Division, and guest presented Ierardi with a small Timothy Ungaro. “Soldiers and
speaker for the ball . wooden statue of a Multiple Family members’ achievements
Ierardi spoke about the Launch Rocket System. were recognized, they all looked
importance field artillery plays in After all the formalities sharp, there was fellowship and
today’s Army. were finished the dance floor was dancing, the 1st Cavs., band’s
The formal portion of the opened up to Rail Gunners for pianist sounded great, and
event was brought to a close after dancing. everyone got home safely,”

(Left) Crystal Buettner , a member of the 589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st Fires Brigade, Family Readiness Group passes out
candy to children during the 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment and 589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st Fires Brigade,
Halloween events. (Right) 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment and 589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st Fires Brigade in-
vited its Soldiers to decorate the trunks of their cars with Halloween decorations and pass out candy to the kids of the two battalions.


Story by Before the Saturday’s Sgt. Steven Lonix, communications
Sgt. Garett Hernandez celebration the Soldiers were treated a Noncommissioned Officer and bugler
tour of CSS farms. CSS farms grow all for 41st Fires Brigade.
of the potatoes used by H-E-B, for the
grocery store’s own brand of potato
chip.
Most people in Dalhart depend
on farming or ranching for their
income. There are several large cattle
feed lots and farms surrounding the
town, according to Knight.
On the day of the parade and
celebration, the winds were blowing at
20 mph with gusts up 50 mph. The
parade wound its way through town
and ended in the town’s park where the
Col. William McRae answers question ceremony was held. During the parade
from a group of Cub Scouts from Dallam one, could hear parents and
and Hartley counties before taking part
grandparents telling the children to
in Veterans Day celebration in Dalhart,
Texas, Nov. 10. stand up for the American flag as it
approached. Also, men could be seen
Members of the 41st Fires taking their hats off and everyone,
Brigade Color Guard along with Col. men, women and children, would place
William McRae, 41st Fires Brigade their hand over their heart for the
commander, traveled to the small town Colors as well.
When the memorial was The 41st Fires Brigade Color Guard post
of Dalhart, Texas to take part in the the national, Army and brigade colors in
town’s Veterans Day Celebration, Nov. dedicated on September 11, 2004 the
front of the Dallam and Hartley Veterans
10. veterans of Dalhart asked Brig. Gen. Memorial during the Veterans Day cele-
The town of Dalhart is located Charles B. Allen, assistant division bration in Dalhart, Texas, Nov. 10.
in the Texas panhandle and takes nine commander (support), 4th Infantry
to 10 hours to drive there from Fort Division, to speak community during
Hood. their celebration. Just two months later,
The Soldiers were met by on November 29, 2004, Allen was
Richard Knight, himself a retired Army killed in an Army helicopter crash
lieutenant colonel, when they arrived at outside of Waco, Texas.
their hotel in Dalhart. The town Everyone really liked General
welcomed the Rail Gunners with open Allen and his aide 1st Lt. Christmas
arms. and felt a real sense of loss when they
Everywhere the Soldiers went died, Knight recounted.
they were being thanked for their The town honored Brig. Gen.
service by adults or asked numerous Charles Allen in 2007, the same year
questions about what it is like to be a the 41st Fires Brigade headquarters
Soldier by children. While in this small building was dedicated in Allen’s
community the Rail Gunners were name, by adding a plaque to their
treated almost like celebrities. memorial. Since that year, the 41st
Meals were eaten in group Fires Brigade has sent senior leaders to A young boy holds his hand over his
settings with different members of the the town to participate in the Veterans heart as the 41st Fires Brigade Color
Day celebration. Guard passes with the American Flag
community such as members of the during the Veterans Day celebration in
town’s Chamber of Commerce, “It’s a big deal to know that
Dalhart, Texas, Nov. 10.
members of the Lions Club or the XIT citizens support you and that they are
Rangers, a local horse riding club. thinking of your welfare," said Staff


Story by
Sgt. Garett Hernandez

On November 19, Basketball
coach Del Harris visited Abrams
Physical Fitness center to talk to the
41st Fires Brigade about team building.
Del Harris is currently the
general manager for the Texas
Legends, the developmental team for
the Dallas Mavericks. Harris has been
head coach to National Basketball
Association teams such as the Houston
Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, the
Milwaukee Buck and the Dallas
Mavericks. Harris has coached
internationally as well, coaching the
teams from Puerto Rico Team, China’s
national team and the Dominican
Republic team.
Harris talked in basketball Del Harris speaks to the Soldiers of the Rail Gunner Brigade about the importance of team build-
references during his speech. Talking ing during his visit to Abrams Physical Fitness, Nov. 19th. Del Harris is currently the general
about the importance of not only the manager for the Texas Legends the developmental team for the Dallas Mavericks. Harris has
star players but the supporting players been head coach to National Basketball Association teams such as the Houston Rockets, Los
and focus. After his inspiring speech Angeles Lakers, the Milwaukee Buck, and the Dallas Mavericks.
Harris took question from the Soldiers
of the brigade.
“It was nice to see someone
from the NBA or that level of
competition, come and talk to us,” said
Pfc. Brandon Moorman, a Utilities
Equipment Repairer with B Battery,
589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st
Fires Brigade.
At the end of the question and
answer segment, Soldiers were invited
to compete for a signed copy of Harris’
new book. The Soldiers shot baskets
from the free throw line unit there was
only three Rail Gunners were left. Basketball Coach Del Harris takes time after his
Harris also took time to sign speech to sign autographs and pose for pictures with
autographs and poses for pictures with Rail Gunners. Del Harris visited Abrams Physical
any Rail Gunner that asked. Fitness center to talk to the 41st Fires Brigade about
“It was really motivating,” said team building, Nov. 19.
Col. William McRae presents Del
Pfc. Jordon Olmsted, a Multiple Harris will a Cavalry Stetson from the
Launch Rocket System crewmember 41st Fires Brigade in appreciation for
with A Battery, 2nd Battalion, 20th taking his time to talk to Rail Gunners.
Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Fires Del Harris is currently the general
Bde. manager for the Texas Legends, the
developmental team for the Dallas
Mavericks.


“I nodded [yes] because I
couldn’t speak, I was crying,” said
the future bride, Santiago.

Soldiers of 1-21st Field Artillery Battalion, 41st Fires Brigade “Rail Gunners”,
march into the 1-21st Field Artillery Battalion headquarters area, to a round of
applause from the gathering of Families and friends, Sept. 1. The Rail Gunners have Sgt. 1st Class Sheena Ferrell,
just returned from their deployment to Afghanistan where they provided communitarian section
transportation and security for NATO personnel in and around the Afghan capital noncommissioned officer in charge, 1-
city of Kabul. 21st Field Artillery Battalion, 41st Fires
Brigade, holds her daughter Faith as
Soldiers from 1st crowd was witness to Spc. Alberto they wait to greet Staff Sgt. Tommy
battalion, 21st Field Artillery, Sdelamora’s marriage proposal to Ferrell after returning from his
41st Fires Brigade, returned to his girlfriend, Mariaya Santiago. deployment to Afghanistan in support of
Fort Hood safely from their Operation Enduring Freedom, Sept. 1.
deployment to Afghanistan in Sdelamora,a motor
support of Operation Enduring transport operator in 575th Field
Freedom, Sep. 1. Support Company, 1st Battalion,
21st Field Artillery Regiment,
The Rail Gunners were 41st Fires Brigade, made the
responsible for the transportation proposal over the loud speaker
and security of members in system after informing the crowd
support of the NATO Training that he had an announcement
Mission Afghanistan, in and that he would like to make.
around the Afghan capital city of
Kabul. “I couldn’t feel my legs
because I was so nervous,”
The Soldiers received a Sdelamora said.
round of applause when they Mariaya Santiago accepted Spc. Alberto
marched into the 1-21st Field There was a collective Sdelamora’s, a motor transport operator
Artillery Battalion headquarters “ahh” from the crowd of Families in 575th Field Support Company, 1-21st
area where Families and friends and then the moment was Field Artillery Battalion, 41st Fires
celebrated with another ovation Brigade, marriage proposal after he
gathered to great the troops. returned from deployment to
after Santiago accepted
Afghanistan in support of Operation
The night became even Sdelamora’s ring.
Enduring Freedom, Sept. 1.
more extraordinary when the


The Soldiers of the 41st Fires Brigade pose for a picture with the Pierce Family after completing the yard
work for the Family’s new home, Sept. 15. Pierce was paralyzed from the chest down after his vehicle
drove over a 300 pound bomb in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on Jan. 9, 2010. (Courtesy photo)

Story by national non-profit organization Acquisition Battery), 41st Fires Bde.
Sgt. Garett Hernandez founded in 2004. The organization pro- In the spirit of volunteering
vides houses to disabled veterans. and the good-natured gesture, the Sol-
The building of the house be- diers from the 41st Fires Bde. received
Despite the cloudy skies and gan June 15 and the yard was the last an equal sized payout by knowing their
the threat of rain, 22 Soldiers from step to complete the new home. The time was used to help someone in
across the 41st Fires Brigade met at lot homes that are provided by Homes for need.
14 on Key Wish Drive in Morgan’s Our Troops are given at no cost to the “It makes me feel good, help-
Point Resort, Texas, to help a fellow disabled veterans. ing others out,” said Spc. Steven Dego-
brother-in-arms by adding the finishing “It’s a warm feeling, knowing nia, a heavy wheel mechanic, 589th
touches to his new home, Sept. 15. that Soldiers from my unit would come Brigade Support Battalion, 41st Fires
In all, approximately 55 Sol- out here to donate their time to help Bde.
diers across Fort Hood gave their time someone else,” said 1st Lt. AnneMarie The leaders within the brigade
to assist a fellow service member. Sol- McCreight, the executive officer for made a point to lend a helping hand.
diers of all ranks – privates, Noncom- Headquarters and Headquarters Bat- With all the volunteers on hand, the
missioned Officers, and officers alike, tery, 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery yard was completed quickly. The entire
gave up their Saturday morning to help Regiment, 41st Fires Bde. “To come yard was finished by noon.
former Marine Staff Sgt. Jack Pierce. out and lend a hand to help him live a “I can’t ask these Soldiers to
The Soldiers lay patches of better life outside of the uniform is give up some of their time to be out
sod, planted trees, bushes and flowers easy motivation to come out here,” here if I’m not willing to give up some
in front of the newly constructed home said McCreight. of my time,” said Command Sgt. Maj.
provided to Pierce, who was paralyzed As the Rail Gunners gathered Antonio Dunston, the brigade com-
from the chest down after his vehicle to lend a helping hand, the physical mand sergeant major for the 41st Fires
drove over a 300 pound bomb in Hel- labor that helped finish the new home Bde. “It’s one of the most rewarding
mand Province, Afghanistan on Jan. 9, also helped to polish the Rail Gunners’ things I could ask for, seeing these Sol-
2010, through the Homes for Our team and boost the esprit de corps. diers volunteer their time on a week-
Troops program. The house was built “Doing something outside of end,” said Dunston.
to allow Pierce the freedom of move- your normal duty will help bring a
ment allowing him to live more inde- team together,” said 1st Sgt. Jeremy
pendently. Hall, the first sergeant for Battery A,
Homes for Our Troops is a 26th Field Artillery Regiment (Target


Story and photos by
Staff Sgt. Kyle J. Richardson

During the last few weeks of
summer break, some teenagers frantic-
ally scramble to prolong their leisure
time. Some attempt to extend their va-
cation by collecting extra hours of
sleep, work, traveling, training for fall
sports or playing countless hours of
thumb-numbing video games. How-
ever, a small group of teens took an
uncustomary break from the normal
teenage-routine and launched them-
selves into the world of field artillery.
Twenty-five teens volunteered
to give up the comforts of their day to
participate in the first Teen Extreme
summer event hosted by the 41st Fires
Brigade Tuesday on Fort Hood.
The group was weaned from Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Land, HHB, 1-21 FA Regt., 41st Fires Bde., explains the
the refreshing feel of air-conditioning functioning of the squad automatic weapon to his son, Andrew, 14, during the Teen
Extreme summer event hosted by the 41st Fires Bde. Tuesday. Parents were allowed
for a day and met face-to-face with the
to attend and participate in the training with their children. Staff Sgt. Kyle
Central Texas heat. The Teen Extreme Richardson, 41st Fires Bde. Public Affairs
event provided them with an opportu-
nity to experience life as “Rail Gun-
ners.” them with exposure and just show The weapons familiarization
They began the day as an unor- them how much fun their parents can may not have taught the teens how to
ganized group, but the cluster of disor- have doing our jobs, and also provide handle a .50-caliber machine gun like
ganized youths was quickly reorgan- the children some mentorship along the the movie character John Rambo, but
ized by Master Sgt. Theodore Durand, way.” they were able to visualize the reality
Teen Extreme noncommissioned offi- The teens picked partners and and potential behind the weapon.
cer-in-charge. The gruff NCO with created battle-buddy teams to assist “I play Call of Duty, and when
more than his fair share of years and each other throughout the day. Then I got out here, I found out that this was
experience, called the group to atten- they were transported to the engage- nothing like my video game,” Daniel
tion having the teens create a tight tra- ment skills training center to receive Nunez, 15, Teen Extreme participant,
ditional rectangular formation. weapons familiarization and convoy said. “I usually beat everyone in the
Throughout the day, Durand – training. game. I think I only hit one target out
with the help of several NCOs and jun- At the EST center, the teens here. I understand what Soldiers do,
ior-enlisted Soldiers – shaped, molded trained on an M9 pistol, M4 semi- and it’s tough. That .50-cal was pretty
and conditioned the teens into fine ar- automatic rifle, squad automatic heavy, the marching was hard, and it’s
tillery Soldiers. weapon and an M2 .50-caliber machine hot. This experience has changed my
“We didn’t want to come out gun. During the simulation portion of whole perspective of Soldiers.”
barking, yelling or beat them down the training, the teens were able to After weapon’s training, the
with the training, because none of them work in squad-sized elements, use their next point was learning how to call for
are in the Army,” said Durand, who is honed first-person-shooter video fire on an enemy position. The vehicles
assigned to the Headquarters and games skills, eliminate enemy threats were parked and they prepared them-
Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, and move tactically from one point to selves for the walk ahead. Most of the
20th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st another. Enthusiastic smiles spread teens donned their parents’ body ar-
Fires Bde. “We wanted to provide across the mini-Soldiers faces as they mor, rucksacks and Kevlar helmets and
laughed and joked after each scenario. went on a grueling half-mile foot


march, with a tormenting mid-day sun excellence from the commander.
overhead. “Teen Extreme was very fun
“I’m very proud of my son,” and a great way to spend the day,”
said Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Land, Kevin Padilla, 16, said. “This changes
HHB, 1st Battalion, 21st Field Artil- the way I view my dad. I didn’t know
lery Regiment, 41st Fires Bde. “It that he did all of this. I can respect him
shows that he has the physical and for going through all of this for me –
mental strength to push himself to for supporting us and giving us a
great limits. He learned that Army life house, what he does is really extraordi-
isn’t as easy as the video games.” nary.”
From the call for fire center,
the group headed back to the Rail Gun-
ners’ footprint for some precision drill
and ceremony training, physical readi-
ness training and a push-up competi-
tion. And no Army gathering is com-
Kelly Padilla, 16, receives some guidance plete without the customary tug-of-war
on the M2 .50-caliber machine gun from competition.
Sgt. Michael Smith, instructor, Head- As the training subsided, the
quarters and Headquarters Company, teens fell into formation – standing tall
589th Brigade Support Battalion, 41st like proud Soldiers. The top performers Twenty-five teens participated in a foot
Fires Bde,, during the Teen Extreme
summer event hosted by the 41st Fires
excelling in the various areas were pre- march during the Teen Extreme summer
Bde. Tuesday. Staff Sgt. Kyle Richard- sented with certificates of achieve- event hosted by the 41st Fires Brigade at Fort
son, 41st Fires Bde. Public Affairs ments and everyone received coins of Hood, Texas, July 24.

From the Safety Corner: had a blood alcohol concentration level  Serve one drink at a time and serve
Rail Gunner Super Bowl Party of .08 percent or higher. measured drinks.
Suggestion's for Hosts Here are some tips to think for  Only serve alcohol to guests over 21
From the Command Team of the your Super Bowl Party: years of age.
41st Fires Brigade to the National Football  Make sure all of your guests designate  Determine ahead of time when you’ll
League (NFL), TEAM Coalition, the U.S. their sober drivers before kick-off or stop serving alcohol, such as one hour
Department of Transportation's National help arrange ride-sharing with other before the party ends or at the end of
Highway Traffic Safety Administration sober drivers. the third quarter (just like NFL
(NHTSA), Mothers Against Drunk Driving  Find unique ways to recognize the stadiums) and begin serving coffee
(MADD) and the HERO Campaign all designated drivers at your party. and dessert.
have one clear and loud message: "REAL  Give them a great spot to watch the  Add the numbers of local cab
Football Fans Don't Let Fans Drive game. companies into your phone so they are
Drunk.”  Whatever non-alcoholic beverage they just one touch away.
According to the National are drinking, make sure their glass is  Take appropriate steps to prevent
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, always full. anyone from driving while impaired.
Super Bowl Sunday has become one of the  Let them have the first pass at the  Be prepared for guests to spend the
nation's most dangerous days on the buffet table. night if an alternative way home is not
roadways due to impaired driving.  Make sure their cars are easy to access available.
NHTSA statistics show nationally on when it is time to start driving people  Be prepared to call your guest's OIC/
Super Bowl Sunday (which runs from home . NCOIC or the staff duty officer should
12:01 a.m., Sunday, to 5:59 a.m.,
 Serve plenty of food. your guest insist they are sober (when
Monday), 48% of the fatalities occurred in
 Offer a variety of non-alcoholic they are not) to drive home. Do not let
crashes where a driver or motorcycle rider
choices like soft drinks, juice, and them drive drunk!
water.


Story by

It was the final fight of the
night and one of the most antici-
pated matches of the tournament.
Sgt. Jason Reyes, in a calm but
focused manner, crossed the plat-
form to the cage. The referee in-
spected him from head to toe. He
then applied a thin layer of petro-
leum jelly to Reyes’ face. He
slowly walked through the open
cage door. In a volcanic roar, the
crowd erupted with cheers.
Spc. Nathaniel Freeman, a
stout but massive competitor,
stood in the blue corner patiently
Sgt. Jason Reyes (blue), Fort Hood, and Staff Sgt. Lonnie Kincaid (red), Fort Riley, go toe-to-toe
awaiting the only sound that mat- on the mats in the semi-final rounds in the heavyweight division during the 2012 U.S. Army
ters – the starting bell. Combatives Championship Friday at Fort Hood. Reyes won the match with an arm-bar
At the sound of the ding, submission and moved on to the finals, where he finished as the runner-up to Fort Stewart’s Spc.
the two fighters ran toward each
other. Out of respect for one an- kick for kick and head shot for man’s ground-and-pound session
other, they touched gloves and head shot, the heavier fighter before he found himself on his
quickly separated during the took him to the ground for the back again in the second round.
championship heavyweight match advantage. The two fighters maneu-
of the 2012 U.S. Army Combat- Out of the blue corner, vered their way around the cage,
ives Championship held at Fort Freeman’s coach yelled “Kisa battled for the upper hand, but
Hood’s Abrams Physical Fitness Katame, Kisa Katame” and the the referee called a stop to the
Center Saturday. fighter reacted. He positioned energy-packed match. In the end,
Freeman, standing at 5- the majority of his weight on only one hand was raised. Free-
feet, 8-inches tall and 286 pounds, Reyes’ rib cage and went to iso- man won the match by technical
fighting for, 3rd Infantry Divi- late an arm. Reyes fought knock-out and was the new All-
sion, Fort Stewart Ga., wasted no bravely from his back, attempt- Army heavyweight champion.
time to pin Reyes, the taller ing a well-needed submission, “It was a good fight,”
fighter at 6-feet, 1-inch, to the but Freeman was able to isolate Reyes said, tired but not defeated
steel fence. his arm and began methodically in spirit. “I was the lightest
Reyes, assigned to the delivering punches to Reyes’ heavyweight in the tournament.
Headquarters and Headquarters head. In the end, my weight counted
Battery, 41st Fires Brigade and As the heavy hits con- against me. Now, that’s not to
fighting for the III Corps and Fort nected like a hammer to a nail, take away from Freeman’s abili-
Hood combatives team, lacked the Reyes showed his never-quit ties. He’s a really good guy and a
body weight like the other heavy- attitude and strong chin to hold tough opponent.”
weight contenders. He weighed in out until the end of the round. At last year’s All-Army
at 220 pounds, and although he The corner break only gave tournament, Reyes weighed-in at
put up a good fight and traded Reyes a reprieve from Free- 185 pounds to fight in the cruiser-


Story by

weight division with a fourth-
place finish.
Reyes started increasing
his body-weight in March to
fight in the light heavyweight
division. The team lost its heavy-
weight, so he was asked to put
on more weight to accommodate
the team.
“There are no individuals
on the team,” Reyes said. “I did
what the team needed me to do.
Most importantly, we’re here to
get the trophy together, and
that’s exactly what we did.” Sgt. Jason Reyes, Fort Hood, secures an arm-bar from the bottom position while working to
As the smallest heavy- submit Staff Sgt. Lonnie Kincaid, Fort Riley, in the semi-finals of the heavyweight division
weight, Reyes entered the tour- during the 2012 U.S. Army Combatives Championship Friday. Reyes won the match to
move on to the championship bout. Daniel Cernero, Sentinel Sports Editor
nament as the dark horse defeat-
ing his first two opponents in a
stature like David against Goli- ple belt in jiu-jitsu, so I’m always training. He said it didn’t matter
ath. going to respect that, but the if he won or lost but that he did
“A lot of people bow down great thing about this sport is his best and made his Family
to bigger opponents,” Reyes said. that anybody can be tapped out proud. He plans on continuing to
“I had to let them know that I at any given time. It doesn’t work with the Fort Hood combat-
wasn’t one to go out so easily.” matter if you’re a white belt or a ives team and coaches and train
In his semi-final bout to black belt.” for some of the upcoming ama-
advance to the championship Reyes’ combatives career teur fights.
bout, Reyes sent the gym into a began seven years ago when he “Jason has grown through
frenzy with his improbable de- joined the Army. As his experi- the years that I’ve worked with
feat of Staff Sgt. Lonnie Kincaid, ences increase in combatives and him,” said Jarrod Clontz, III
on the team from Fort Riley, martial arts, he considers it a Corps head coach.
Kan. way of life rather than a sport. “I used to be able to sub-
With a slap that echoed “I’ve been around the mit him when I wanted,” the
through the gym setting the tone mats for a long time,” Reyes coach said in a raspy voice from
to start the match, Reyes quickly said, with his lean physique yelling instructions over the
worked for a submission once on showing off his years of hard cheering crowd. “Now, I rarely
the ground. training. “To me, combatives and submit him. His technical ability
Reyes found that submis- martial arts is more than just has blown through the roof, as
sion in the form of an arm-bar. doing it, it’s a lifestyle. It’s about well as his conditioning.”
In the finals, Freeman taking care of yourself and out- While Reyes took second
paid his respect to Reyes and doing yourself from the last place in the heavyweight divi-
was thankful for the opportunity time. You have to be respectful sion, his fights during the tour-
to fight. and keep your head. You have to nament added to the Fort Hood
“I have a black belt in learn when to fight and when to combatives team overall score of
judo and a blue belt in Brazilian shut off your aggression.” 441 points for the first-place fin-
Jiu-Jitsu,” the heavyweight Reyes has dedicated him- ish. The Fort Hood combatives
champion said. “Reyes has a pur- self to his Family, God and his team is the only post to win the
tournament three years in a row.


During the months of October, November and December 95 Rail Gunners reenlisted: From 1st Bn.,
20th FAR; Spc. Abad Jonas Carino Jr, Spc. Alexius Ren Andrew, Spc. Alviar Christopher Lee, Spc. Axtell Brennan D, Spc. Barnes Corey
Alan, Spc. Bergan Anthony Francis, Spc. Bitz Jesse Douglas, Spc. Dubois Seth Gabriel, Spc. Groves Adrian Lamar, Spc. Harris Shawn
Temple, Spc. Hoyt Michael Robert, Spc. Hubbard Dominique Chavez, Spc. Linares Elsa, Spc. Lopez Adrian Manuel, Spc. Martinez Eric
Frank, Spc. Mckinney Kyarra Chanta, Spc. Ralston Jared Coley, Spc. Seely Richard Guy, Spc. Sorm Dalyson Lee, Spc. Stewart Kevin
Nicholas, Spc. Tribble Johnathan Randall J, Spc. Wallace John Darrin, Spc. Wichman Sarah Michelle, Spc. Williams James Matthew, Sgt.
Davis Antonio Darius, Sgt. Felts Christopher Michael, Sgt. Ferguson Jacob Darin, Sgt. Jackson Dalmar Patterson, Sgt. Lamb Bo Austin,
Sgt. Patterson Joseph Alan, Sgt. Pennington Joshua Downey, Sgt. Poveda Erik J, Sgt. Rodriguez Nelson Jr, Sgt. Southwick Daniel Parr, Sgt.
Towns Cassius Devonta Derea, Sgt. Young Travais Warren, Staff Sgt. Borja Travis Ivan Stol, Staff Sgt. Fuller Noah Tremayne, Staff Sgt.
Gehrke Joshua Allen, Staff Sgt. Jackson Anthony Ray, Staff Sgt. Mack Casey Benjamin, Staff Sgt. Salazar Johnboyd Faisao, Staff Sgt.
Starling Thomas Norman Jr.
From 2nd Bn., 21st FAR; Spc. Arredondo Chad Eric, Spc. Brisell Brandon Matthew, Spc. Carlton Kyle Wade, Spc. Garza Matthew
Eugene, Spc. Halona Jeffery Pete, Spc. Hughes Marvin Fitzgerald, Spc. Pape Andrew Thomas, Spc. Schaefer Eugene Jon, Spc. Valentine
Sheryl Annette, Spc. Whatley Dennis Lamar Jr, Spc. Winemiller Justin Brett, Sgt. Buffum James Erickrobert, Sgt. Conwell Keith Dontay,
Sgt. Jean Gersone, Sgt. Laplace Jeremy Joseph, Sgt. Nelson Wykeese Jamal, Sgt. Willis Shane Wesley, Staff Sgt. Thiers Ryan Francis,
Staff Sgt. Waycaster Dennis Robert, Staff Sgt. Young Alex Lee, Sgt. 1st Class Moody April Tamara .
From the 589th Bde. Support Bn.; Spc. Dunbar Joseph Nathaniel Ii, Spc. Hall Nicole Michele, Spc. Miller Christina Marlena, Spc. Prich
Jessica Marie, Sgt. Barreto Gadiel, Sgt. Dean Casey Lee, Sgt. Ford Rashad Andre, Sgt. Gonzalez Emily Selena, Sgt. Kopakowski Michael
David, Sgt. Maza Reyes Manuel Iii, Sgt. Pettigrew Chermark Joseph, Sgt. Robinski Shawn Michael, Sgt. Villafane Luis A, Staff Sgt. Carter
Byron Lee Smith, Staff Sgt. Hagler Felisha Juvole.
From HHB and A Battery, 26th FAR; Spc. Derrington Melanie Jeannine, Spc. Parker Keisha Monique, Spc. Pilling Thomas Jon, Spc.
Priester Marquis Davon, Spc. Bennett Robert Donato, Spc. Frauenfeld Edwin Bennett, Spc. Jeterperry Terrance Montrel, Spc. Kinsey Tylor
Patrick, Spc. Lattner Steven Andrew, Spc. Moore Tia Jene, Spc. Rivas Samuel, Sgt. Guardado Raul Jr, Sgt. Jackson Yolanda Marie, Staff
Sgt. Anderson Fernandez Dominic, Staff Sgt. Stjoy Alex, Sgt. 1st Class Oros Israel Perez

We would like to congratulate all of the Rail Gunners that were promoted
during the months of October, November and December:
OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Sgt. Tamara M. Becker Sgt. Keith D. Conwell Sgt. George Galvan
Sgt. Jeremy J. Laplace Sgt. James L. Hill Jr Sgt. Joel A.
Sgt. John M. Houck Gonzalezmercado
Sgt. Bo A. Lamb Sgt. Alexandrea S. Long
Sgt. Allan L. McDaniel III Sgt. Keineth A. Scaggs
Sgt. Jonathan E. Nelson Sgt. Brent A. Schmidt
Sgt. Orlando S. A. Smith Staff Sgt. Kyle V. Lewis
Staff Sgt. Luis A. Villafane

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Public Affairs Office!
SGT Garett Hernandez: garett.m.hernandez.mil@mail.mil

Rail Gunner Newsletter January 2013

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