By 2nd Lt. Stacie Navarro

1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

Sgt. 1st Class Donald Thompson, top left, instructs squad leaders on patrol base activities and priorities of work Feb. 28, 2017, during a two-week squad leaders academy for sergeants and staff sergeants with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Hughes)

Sergeants and staff sergeants with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, participated in a two-squad leader academy Feb. 28, 2017 to March 10, 2017.

The infantry squad forms the foundation of the infantry brigade combat team and the core of its mission command. Consequently, the squad leader represents the most critical leadership position within the brigade.

Squad leaders are also at the critical position to know, counsel and train their Soldiers. They should know their Soldiers and Families through counseling, inspections, barracks checks, home visitations and team building.

“Squad leaders touch our most vulnerable population on a day-to-day, minute-by-minute basis. They must be engaged, involved in every aspect of their Soldiers’ lives, 24/7 365 … deployed or in garrison,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Ramon Baca, 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. “Squad leaders must show up in the morning prepared to train a task … relevant to the unit mission essential task list; they must be experts and able to articulate it. They must utilize doctrine and have training aids; they cannot wing it.”

The academy was divided into two phases, tactical and administrative. Squad leaders provide the link between the organization and the Soldier. They are in a position to have mastered operations at the squad level, employment of direct fire weapon systems organic to the infantry platoon and squad, offensive and defensive operations, pre-combat checks and pre-combat inspections.

The tactical phase provided squad leaders with the tools that instill the foundation for a tough, disciplined, proficient and ready force in tactical training and combat.

Squad leaders from 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepare a casualty for evacuation during the tactical phase of the squad leader academy March 2, 2017. NCOs in the ranks of sergeant and staff sergeant completed the squad leader academy from Feb. 27, 2017 to March 10, 2017. The squad leader academy’s overall intent is to provide squad leaders the tools to enhance their ability to complete the battalion mission, and how to care for their Soldiers and their Families. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Hughes)

“Tactical training is the decisive operation, and squad leaders need to be trained and certified to build lethal teams that can … move tactically, perform actions on contact, kill what they shoot at, synchronize direct and indirect fires, stop bleeding and call a 9-line (MedEvac request),” said Baca.

“Focusing exclusively on squad leaders during the squad leader academy was time well spent. If squads are trained and empowered, everything will become easier.”

The administrative phase provided the tools that will provide for an organized and competent force in garrison and squad level training. It also taught them how to care for their Soldiers and their Families — whether on a four-day weekend or during combat operations.

“The squad is the foundational element of all infantry operations. The tactical squad leader academy gave us the opportunity to ‘re-blue’ our squad leaders on updated infantry doctrine and share various tactics, techniques and procedures from our pool of subject matter experts,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Ehrhart, commander, 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg.

Ehrhart stressed the importance of leadership training.

“During the week, squad leaders interacted with leaders across the battalion and had the opportunity to provide input into the battalion tactical standard operating procedure and validate it prior to beginning collective training. Squad leaders conducted classroom training, question-and-answer sessions, as well as practical exercises in a field environment,” said Ehrhart. “It is an essential step in our collective training program and will pay big dividends as we prepare for our next deployment.”

The top-ranked squad leader during the two-week training highlighted what he gained from the academy and how he’ll apply it to his squad.

“I learned how important doctrine truly is. The Army, as a whole, has been operating largely off of tactics, techniques and procedures and experiences from lessons learned during (operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom),” said Sgt. Cody Cary, Company B, 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg. “I plan to take what I learned in the squad leader academy back to my squad and refine what I’ve been teaching my squad (to) ensure it’s in line with infantry doctrine.”

Sgt. Spencer Moore, Company C, and Sgt. Steve Alonzo, Company A, both with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct loading procedures on the M3 Carl Gustav rocket launcher during a squad leader academy March 2, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Hughes)

By 1st Lt. John F. Kistler

4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

Cadets from Loyola University in Chicago make their way up Agony Hill during the semiannual “Manchu Mile” April 6, 2017. The Loyola University cadets traveled more than 1,000 miles to participate in the march with the Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. (Photo by 1st Lt. John F. Kistler)

During the Chinese Boxer Rebellion of 1900, Soldiers from the 9th Infantry Regiment were forced to walk over 85 miles in what is now known as the “Manchu Mile.”

“Manchu” Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conducted the semiannual Manchu Mile commemoration march April 6, 2017, walking 25 miles across the installation.

Cadets from the ROTC program at Loyola University in Chicago traveled more than 1,000 miles to participate in the event. The “Rambler” Battalion consists of Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, Northeastern Illinois University, Northwestern University, North Park University and Resurrection University. Twelve cadets and two cadre members trained for three months prior to making the trip.

“Having the cadets be able to participate in our Manchu Mile gave them an opportunity to see the mental and physical toughness required of our leaders in the Army, and to experience the esprit de corps of the Manchus,” said Lt. Col. Lawson F. Bell, commander, 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Reg.

The Loyola cadets ranged from freshmen taking military science I to seniors taking military science IV.

Capt. Jake Fry, commander, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shares the history of the “Manchu Mile” with Loyola University Chicago ROTC cadets prior to beginning the 25-mile road march April 6, 2017. (Photo by 1st Lt. John F. Kistler)

Senior cadet Ryan Motzel, who is set to commission in May as an infantry officer, said he used completing the Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, as his benchmark for the Manchu Mile.

“The Manchu Mile was a little more rigorous as far as the hills go, especially Agony Hill. Overall, the event was a test and a challenge, but I think it was beautiful and different because of the Fort Carson scenery,” Motzel said.

The march places emphasis on unit cohesion and esprit de corps rather than speed of march.

Capt. Guillermo Romo, assistant professor of military science, who participated in the march with the cadets, noted that it was important for the future officers to receive guided interaction with Soldiers prior to commissioning.

The Loyola University Chicago ROTC guidon flies at a rest stop during the Manchu Mile April 6, 2017. (Photo by 1st Lt. John F. Kistler)

“The cadets’ big take-away was the experience of working and walking beside the same Soldiers they will one day lead,” Romo said. “To share that hardship and see how strong leadership responds was something we just cannot replicate at the (ROTC) program level.”

Leadership from 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Reg., plans to conduct another Manchu Mile in the fall and the annual Christmas march in conjunction with Operation Stryker Christmas in December, 2017.

ROTC cadets from the “Rambler” Battalion of Loyola University Chicago walk with Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during the spring Manchu Mile April 6, 2017. (Photo by 1st Lt. John F. Kistler)

By Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold

14th Public Affairs Detachment

Spc. Alex Gonner, left, and Pvt. Ian Villacorta, Company A, 52nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, perform a retina scan April 12, 2017, using the Seeker II during a reassessment of graduates from the 4th Inf. Div. Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Academy. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

Thirty Soldiers within the 4th Infantry Division were reassessed on their abilities to retain, implement and react accordingly to specified threats in simulated testing by U.S. Army Forces Com­mand (FORSCOM) counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED) instructors at two sites on Fort Carson April 12, 2017.

As a member of the joint interagency, intergovernmental and multinational (JIIM) team under the Mission Command Element in Central Europe, the 4th Inf. Div. continues its efforts in training and providing a contemporary operational fighting force adaptable to any environment.

The Soldiers tested graduated from the 4th Inf. Div. C-IED Academy late last year. This is a measure to build and maintain unit combat readiness necessary to the fighting force in the vast expansion of complex environments and enemy strategic warfare.

“These Soldiers went through this training in November, 2016, so what we are doing is reassessing how (effectively) the training is being retained by the Soldiers,” said Jason Briglin, C-IED Academy instructor.

“They are going back through the equipment for a quick re-evaluation so that FORSCOM can capture a quick picture of whether the Soldiers are proficient, are they staying with it and are units actually drawing this equipment out and using it for training as they should,” Briglin said.

Spc. Lewis McKenzie, Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, alerts the instructor of a possible unseen threat while using the DSP27 (detector special purpose 27) during a reassessment of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Academy graduates April 12, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

Soldiers tested on the DSP27 (detector special purpose 27), the Ceia CMD (deep ground metal detector) and various other forms of threat mitigation including biometric systems, robotics and counter-radio controlled IED systems.

“I’ve gone through all the personal hand-held mine detectors, Minehound, Ceia, Strider — all of the detectors,” said Sgt. Mitchell Fromm, Company A, 299th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.

“The last time I tested with this equipment was in October, 2016. The instructors do a wonderful job in teaching the proper technical skills, however, it’s a perishable skill set. Once you get your hands back on it and mess around with it a little, it comes back to you pretty quickly,” he added.

A possible 100 points were available on every lane tested with each piece of equipment, however to receive acceptable scoring to move forward, the Soldier had to acquire a score of at least 70 to be proven proficient.

Data collected from the testing will determine further development of the training criteria needed to maintain proficiency and accuracy and will be implemented across the total force, said Briglin.

Sgt. Justin DeGorostiza, Company A, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, overlooks the assembly of the FASTAC Robotic System counter-improvised explosive device robot April 12. 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

Sgt. Mitchell Fromm, Company A, 299th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, uses the Minehound hand-held mine detector to search for possible threats during an assessment April 12, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

By Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Congressional staff delegates conduct medicine ball throws with Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a workout April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, engaged 20 congres­sional staff delegates with physical fitness training and candid conversation at the brigade footprint April 20, 2017.

Members of 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, one of seven battalion-sized units in the brigade, put the staff members through a rigorous workout, but kept it reasonable for those not used to the thin mountain air or intense workouts.

“We did a lot of the functional fitness training that we do because we’re an infantry brigade combat team; physical readiness is paramount to our success and is essential for mission accomplishment for the missions we’re assigned to conduct,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Seagreaves, commander, 3rd Sqdn., 61st Cav. Reg.

“It was a good training session, and we were able to scale it in a way that the staff delegates could participate to their level of ability.”

“They really got to see what Soldiers of an infantry brigade combat team do day in and day out to keep their bodies physically ready for the rigors of modern combat,” he said.

Congressional staff delegates and Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, take part in candid conversation over lunch at the Warfighter Dining Facility on Fort Carson April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

The majority of the delegates kept up, at their ability level, with the fast-paced training.

“It was intense, fun, and everyone was very nice and supportive, but it was intense because we did a tiny fraction of what they do every day and it’s extremely impressive; the magnitude of facilities like this is incredible,” said Amanda Hall, legislative assistant for Sen. Jim Inhofe, a Republican from Oklahoma.

The Soldiers assisted, motivated and kept the delegates involved during the workout.

“It’s more interesting to see what their lifestyle is and where they come from, how they work and they got to see how we work and see our lifestyle. They did PT with us today and did well for their first time,” said Staff Sgt. Nicolas Montijo, cavalry scout section sergeant, Troop A, 3rd Sqdn., 61st Cav. Reg.

Eating breakfast and lunch at the Warfighter Dining Facility allowed delegates to have one-on-one and small group intimate conversations to establish and build a strong bond with some of the Soldiers.

Col. Matthew Cody, commander, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, speaks to Congressional staff delegates and Soldiers at the Warfighter Dining Facility April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

“It was great overhearing different conversations, about the training and real situations and just how intense it really is; the stuff that we never hear about on Capitol Hill,” said Hall.

One delegate said she took full advantage of the situation, speaking with several Soldiers throughout the meals.

“I really enjoyed my experience thus far, seeing the hands-on training that you do and can appreciate from seeing it from the inside. The intimate conver­sation while eating is a great opportunity for us to ask the right questions and get to know you all, hear what you do day to day; that has been very enjoyable for me,” said Ashley Morgan, staff assistant for former presidential candidate Sen. John McCain, a Republican from Arizona.

They received a training event overview from 4th Inf. Div. and U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson command.

Staff Sgt. Nicolas Montijo, right, cavalry scout section sergeant, Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and Congressional staff delegate Amanda Hall, legislative assistant Sen. Jim Inhofe, take part in candid conversation at Warfighter Dining Facility April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

The next day the delegation traveled to Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site to witness Fort Carson Soldiers conducting large-scale training. “A lot of this is going to be a new experience for me, too. I’ve never handled weaponry or been around military machinery like this. Getting a chance to get my hands on a machine gun or flying in a helicopter (will) definitely help me understand what you’ll go through in training and out there on the battlefield,” Morgan said.

After the lunch, delegates were taken to visit pilots and Soldiers of the aviation brigade to further enhance the opportunity for bonding with troops.

“The big takeaway from this visit is the human connection that the staff delegates can build with the Soldiers, and they take that back to their congressmen,” said Seagreaves.

Delegates also visited the Advanced Gunnery Training System/Bradley Advanced Training System and an aircraft flight simulator run by the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security. They also toured the Warrior Transition Battalion, Evans Army Community Hospital, a Soldier barracks, Fort Carson Education Center and the commissary.

Soldiers with 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct warmup drills with Congressional staff delegates prior to physical fitness training at the brigade footprint April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

Congressional staff delegates and Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, go through stations during a workout on Fort Carson April 20, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

By Staff Sgt. Tamika Dillard

Army News Service

Soldiers of 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, wait for orders to push forward toward the objective during Exercise Combined Resolve VIII at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany April 24, 2017. The multinational exercise designed to train the Army’s Regionally Allocated Forces to the U.S. European Command includes more than 3,400 participants from 10 nations. (Photo by Spc. Javon Spence)

WIESBADEN, Germany — “What you are doing here is important, not only to our allies but to the American people … so thanks for what you do,” Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel Dailey told the troops he visited in Latvia and Germany from April 18-21, 2017.

Dailey visited U.S. Soldiers in Europe to stress the importance of the Operation Atlantic Resolve mission and the contributions Soldiers on the ground have made in enhancing global security.

“This is not Iraq or Afghanistan,” said Dailey. “But this is just as important, if not more important at this time in our history right now … making sure we are doing the things we need to do to maintain the partnerships we have with our international partners and keeping the interest of the American people.”

Soldiers of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, deployed to Europe earlier this year as part of the Army’s rotational force and in a short amount of time are making good on the United States’ commitment to the U.S.-European strategic partnership.

“These Soldiers, in this short period of time, have far exceeded my expectations,” Dailey said. “I have the faith and confidence they will continue to do what they were sent here to do, and I wanted to personally come here to Europe and tell each and every one of them how proud America is of them.”

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey visits 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Soldiers at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, April 21, 2017. (Photo by Sarah Tate)

These rotational forces will conduct exercises across the theater during the course of their nine-month rotation, routinely demonstrating speed of assembly and massing for training events.

The visit gave Soldiers the oppor­tunity to ask the sergeant major of the Army questions and seek out his guidance to assist with the mission.

Command Sgt. Maj. Sheryl Lyon, U.S. Army Europe’s senior enlisted adviser said having Dailey visit positively impacted the Soldiers.

“Having someone at his level here reinforces for the Soldiers the importance of their mission here,” Lyon said. “Without this, Soldiers lose focus and they feel like they are not contributing … so having somebody from his level tell them that they have purpose helps them to get through their time here.”

Dailey agreed with Lyons.

“When Soldiers are highly motivated and they’re led through motivation, direction and purpose, I have every confidence in the world they will perform to the best of their ability,” he said.

Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, maneuver toward a defensive position while participating in a live-fire operation during Exercise Combined Resolve VIII at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, April 24, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Randy Wren)

By Capt. Joseph Wasek

2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

Spc. Luke Vega, infantry grenadier, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, throws a training grenade into a bunker during a squad live-fire exercise April 21, 2017. (Photo by Capt. Joseph Wasek)

Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, conducted team- and squad-level live-fire exercises in the southern training areas of Fort Carson April 10-13, 2017, and April 17-21, 2017, respectively.

The training is designed as a challenging, yet manageable, exercise for fire teams, the smallest unit in an infantry platoon, and prepares Soldiers for progression into collective, platoon-level training.

Sgt. 1st Class Kristopher Bettinger, platoon sergeant, Company C, 2nd Bn., 12th Inf. Reg., 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, said he was pleased with the training.

“Our team live-fire exercise was an excellent training opportunity for our company,” said Bettinger. “Not only were we able to give our young team leaders experience maneuvering their teams while firing live ammunition, but we were also able to train the individual Soldiers on the basics of fire, maneuver and communication.”

Pfc. Damien Vickers, left, infantry rifleman, and Spc. Luke Vega, infantry grenadier, provide security overwatch for the assault team during a Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, squad live-fire exercise. The training for fire teams, the smallest unit in an infantry platoon, prepares the Soldiers for progression into collective, platoon-level training. (Photo by Capt. Joseph Wasek)

Training was designed to replicate realistic combat scenarios, such as engaging enemy direct fire, establishing a base of fire, closing on an objective and breaking contact, and using smoke screens to conceal movement

1st Lt. Zachary Sheffield, platoon leader, Company C, said the training is relevant to today’s infantrymen.

“Along with providing a realistic training scenario, the exercise also prepared the fire teams for their upcoming squad and platoon live-fire event, in which they will again react to enemy contact, except this time as an entire squad rather than a single team,” Sheffield said.

At the conclusion of the training exercise, the Soldiers took stock of their strengths and weaknesses, identifying ways to continue to improve.

“I felt that overall we had excellent violence of action from our fire teams,” said 1st Sgt. Kevin Dodson, Company C. “Besides that, the communication within the teams was phenomenal. Some of our teams did struggle with spacing on the objective; however, overall I was very pleased with the lethality of our Soldiers.”

An infantry team reacts to contact and maneuvers on an enemy position during a Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, live-fire exercise April 12, 2017. (Photo by Capt. Joseph Wasek)

By Spc. Anthony Bryant

14th Public Affairs Detachment

Soldiers and Denver Broncos cheerleaders smile for the camera Saturday at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

PIÑON CANYON MANEUVER SITE — Temperatures dropped to below freezing as snow, propelled by 20 mph wind gusts, washed over the Soldiers who came out to help announce the Broncos’ NFL draft pick live on national television April 29, 2017, from Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site.

Despite the weather, the Denver Broncos and the Army delivered the first pick of the fifth round for University of Michigan tight end Jake Butt.

“I was slightly nervous going live on national TV,” Spc. Ashley Smith, combat medic, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, said about announcing the Broncos’ draft pick. “The cold was horrid out there, but definitely worth it.”

Randy Gradishar, former Denver Broncos linebacker, presents a football emblazoned with the Broncos insignia to Col. Curtis D. Taylor, commander, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, April 29, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Smith was out in the cold for hours in the plain standard Army uniform without a cold weather jacket and when it came time to announce the draft pick, she was all smiles.

“I was super excited,” Smith said. “I’m a huge Michigan fan, so the fact that Jake Butt got picked, and I got to announce it is a big thing for me. Greatest day of my life, probably.”

When choosing the Broncos’ offsite location for community outreach, Amanda Hebert, manager of partnership acquisition for the Denver Broncos Football Club, said her team couldn’t think of a better way to broadcast their draft pick than with Soldiers in the middle of a field exercise who were living out of tents and eating Meals, Ready to Eat.

“We wanted to have military outreach, and we wanted that outreach to be meaningful and impactful while also boosting the morale of the Soldiers we were coming to visit,” Hebert said. “So, we wanted to make the draft pick a cool experience where we could bring some Bronco love to them, some cheerleaders, alumni, our Super Bowl trophies and giveaways.”

Hebert is a self-proclaimed Army brat with two brothers who have served in the Army.

“We wanted to show our support and a little snow doesn’t hurt anyone,” Hebert said. “It was very important for us to show up here and make an effort. We’re all from around here. We’ve been here long enough and we can handle snow.”

A Broncos’ fan, Smith said her first NFL game was a Broncos game and she was honored to stand up and announce their draft pick.

“It’s nice to know that we have support,” said Smith. “Anything like this makes us feel good about ourselves, to know that there are people out there who care about us; especially enough to stand in the snow.”

The Denver Broncos broadcasting team sets up to deliver the Army’s announcement of the Broncos’ fourth-round draft pick April 29, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Aaron Gunning, videographer for the Denver Broncos, films inside a Stryker fighting vehicle April 29, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Spc. Ashley Smith, center, combat medic, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, announces the Broncos selection of University of Michigan tight end Jake Butt during the NFL Draft Saturday alongside fellow Soldiers, Broncos cheerleaders and Broncos alumni at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 29, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Karl Mecklenburg, former Denver Broncos linebacker, signs a football for Sgt. Vence Salinas, fire support specialist, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, April 29, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

The Denver Broncos display their three Vince Lombardi Trophies from their 1997, 1998 and 2015 Super Bowl wins, during a visit with Soldiers April 29, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

By Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Best Warrior competitors begin the land navigation course at Range 4 April 26, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. Maj. Thomas Butner)

Eighteen of the top Soldiers from across the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson competed in the grueling Best Warrior competition April 24-27, 2017, for the right to represent the post at the III Corps level.

Staff Sgt. David Fletcher, infantryman, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., and Spc. Allan Remedor, human resources specialist, 759th Military Police Battalion, emerged as the best of the best NCO and Soldier, respectively, based on their appearance, physical readiness, marksmanship, depth of knowledge and ability to perform a wide range of tactical common skill tasks.

“The competition helps build esprit de corps,” Fletcher said. “People who aren’t trying out for the competition look up to those who are, and hopefully it will cause a chain reaction of people who are trying to better themselves.”

Staff Sgt. David Fletcher, infantryman, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, navigates “The Dirty Name” on the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) obstacle course April 25, 2017. Fletcher won the Best Warrior NCO category and will now represent the post at the III Corps competition. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

Fletcher said he’s honored to win the Best Warrior Competition and hopes it will influence his Soldiers.

“My Soldiers are very competitive, so making it a competition and enforcing standards makes everyone better as a whole,” he said.

Remedor said his leadership had the confidence in him to be prepared to meet the challenges ahead.

“This will help me stay motivated so when I have my own Soldiers, I can push them to be just as motivated.

Not a lot of people can and will complete this competition because not everyone will volunteer to do this. It does take a type of go-get-it attitude to get it done,” Remedor said.

Spc. Marco Diaz, human resource specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, winces after exiting the gas chamber April 26, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

The competition began by ensuring each candidate met height and weight standards, followed by an equipment inspection for the four-day and four-night event. After all the required equipment was inspected and accounted for, the candidates were briefed about the upcoming events and then bedded down for the night inside a company operations facility.

The next day started at 5 a.m. with an Army Physical Fitness Test, quickly followed by a 12-mile road march to the weapons qualification range where competitors zeroed and qualified with their assigned M-4s. After the range,

Soldiers completed a conditioning course, media training event, written test and essay, and a weapons disassembly and reassembly assessment.

Spc. Allan Remedor, human resources specialist, 759th Military Police Battalion, stands before command sergeants major from across the division during a Best Warrior board April 27, 2017. Remedor won the Best Warrior Soldier category and will now represent the post at the III Corps competition. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

Day three started at the Medical Simulation Training Center and consisted of warrior tasks and drills, communication, fire support, security, chemical defense and day and night land navigation that ended at 2 a.m. the following day.

During the early hours of morning, four Soldiers emerged victors to face a shotgun blast of board questions from brigade command sergeants major from across the installation, presided over by Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson.

The competition featured the best and brightest of the 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, said Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen A. Pickerin II, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Inf. Div.

“These guys have definitely worked hard at this competition through grueling events. They are ready for this and they will succeed,” Pickerin said. “We started out with 18 people and they all worked hard at these physical and mental events. I’m proud of every single one of them who has come though this competition.”

Fletcher and Remedor will represent the 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson at the III Corps competition.

Winners from that Best Warrior event will move on to the U.S. Army Forces Command contest.

Sgt. 1st Class Charles Howe, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear NCO, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, leads Best Warrior competitors into the nuclear, biological and chemical chamber April 26, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

Sgt. Anton Graphenreed, human resource specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, takes aim at a target during the Best Warrior weapons range April 26, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

Sgt. Nathanial Watford, multichannel transmission systems operator-maintainer, Division Artillery, 4th Infantry Division, pulls himself across the “One Rope Bridge” at the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) obstacle course April 25, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, briefs participants of the 2017 Best Warrior Competition at the company operations facility April 24, 2017. (Photo by Master Sgt. James Jenner)

Sgt. Matthew Williams, 759th Military Police Battalion, applies a chest seal during tactical medical care during the Best Warrior Competition at the Mountain Post Medical Simulation Training Center April 26, 2017. (Photo by Capt. Aaron Craig)

From left, Spc. Dustin Gray, Spc. Marco Diaz and Sgt. Anton Graphenreed, all human resource specialists assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, pass the 3-mile marker on the tank trails during the 12-mile road march April 25, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)

By Spc. Anthony Bryant

14th Public Affairs Detachment

Trinidad resident Elsie Jurajda learns about the capabilities of an M1 Abrams battle tank from Spc. Marcus L. Bollinger, M1 armor crewman, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, during a community day at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 21, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

PIÑON CANYON MANEUVER SITE — The powerful rotor wash of the UH-60 Black Hawk blew dust and debris over those involved in the static display as the helicopter lifted off the helipad and maneuvered away.

Soldiers with the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, invited residents of the surrounding communities to visit Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS) April 21, 2017, to talk with Soldiers about their wartime roles and view their equipment at close range.

The brigade moved Strykers, tanks, aviation assets and heavy equipment 140 miles from Fort Carson to PCMS for its “Raider Focus” exercise, said Command Sgt. Maj. Charles W. Tennant, 1st SBCT.

He said the Soldiers convoyed through corridors of heavy traffic in the community.

Mayor of Trinidad Phil Rico reads the Day of the Soldier of Piñon Canyon proclamation as Col. Ronald P. Fitch Jr., garrison commander, left, and Col. Curtis D. Taylor, commander, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, look on. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

“Certainly, people will have questions about what is going on. Why the large movement? Why are there all these military vehicles? Is there something going on?” he said. “1st SBCT wants to address those questions by showing the surrounding communities what they’re about; readiness and training.”

Tennant said he wanted the community to see what their tax dollars pay for and meet the Soldiers who operate the vehicles day to day.

“These are American Soldiers at their finest,” Tennant said. “Attendees see Soldiers days into a field (exercise), but regardless of how dirty they are, they’re here to train. Community members are welcome to see the capabilities of Strykers, the main vehicular platform for 1st SBCT.”

Michelle Blake, wildlife biologist at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site, shows curious attendees a snake indigenous to the area during the April 21, 2017, community day. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Static displays also included the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rockets System (HIMARS) from the 1st Battalion, 14th Field Artillery Regiment, 75th Field Artillery Brigade, Fort Sill, Oklahoma; and the M1 Abrams battle tank from 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, from Fort Hood, Texas.

This particular exercise featured more than 1,200 vehicles spread out over 64 separate convoys moving from Fort Carson to PCMS.

Shelly Moltrer, substitute teacher and stay-at-home mother, said she was curious when she saw the convoys driving through Pueblo. After learning about the community relations event at PCMS, she brought her husband and two sons.

“We all got to eat an MRE, and that was … interesting,” Moltrer said. “I had beef ravioli which was similar to Chef Boyardee. Not bad; the boys liked it. They asked if they could take an MRE to school for lunch and show their friends.”

Col. Curtis D. Taylor, commander, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, speaks to community members in front of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rockets System April 21, 2017, at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Trinidad Mayor Phil Rico read the proclamation designating April 21, 2017, as Day of the Soldier of Piñon Canyon.

Rico called upon the citizens of Trinidad to honor the service of the brave men and women in uniform and to welcome them into their community. He thanked all service members, past and present, for their service.

“Whereas the city of Trinidad understands the value of conservation of our natural resources and the protection of our heritage, our lands and our beliefs, the United States armed forces will obtain necessary precautions in protecting the habitats of Piñon Canyon in their strategy of sustaining the mission and securing the future,” he said.

Jennifer Kolise, archaeologist at PCMS, noted there are over 6,000 cultural resources in Piñon Canyon to include historical homesteads, ranches, prehistoric sites and isolated finds.

About 20 percent of the sites in Piñon Canyon are protected sites, Kolise said. She and her fellow scientists work cohesively with Soldiers training at PCMS and have marked cultural sites together to preserve the cultural integrity of PCMS.

Col. Curtis D. Taylor, second from right, commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Charles W. Tennant, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, converse with Trinidad Mayor Phil Rico, second from left, and his wife, Bea Rico, while partaking of Meals, Ready to Eat. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Pvt. Brittany E. Selfridge, multiple launch rocket system crew­member, Battery B, 1st Battalion, 14th Field Artillery Regiment, 75th FA Brigade, Fort Sill, Okla., and Merissa Herman pose for a photo from a roof hatch of an the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rockets System April 21, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Members of the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard pose for a photo with the 18 ribbons the team earned and the Hesse Cup, earned by Spc. James Cantwell for accumulating the most points, during the Regional Cavalry Competition in San Angelo, Texas, April 19-23. Team members are, back row from left, Staff Sgt. Megan Sweeney, Spc. Joseph Greer, Spc. Autumn Ehler, Sgt. 1st Class Bradley Lee, Spc. Charles Michalik, Sgt. Benjamen Cooper, Sgt. Nolan Mynatt, and Sgt. Brian Vogt; front row from left, Spc. Brandon Robinson, Cantwell, Spc. Alexander McGuire and Spc. Dustin Brady. (Photo by Lt. Col. Justin R. Howe)

By Capt. Tara Middlebrooks

Commander, Headquarters and Support Company, 4th Infantry Division

The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard (MCG) dominated its competition at the Regional Cavalry Competition in San Angelo, Texas, April 19-23.

Led by NCO in charge Sgt. 1st Class Bradley Lee, the Soldiers garnered nine first-place, four second-place and six third-place ribbons in addition to three overall awards.

Spc. James Cantwell and his horse, Junior, brought home the Hesse Cup for accumulating the most points throughout the competition and earning the title of best cavalryman.

The competition included five events. Military horsemanship focused on the Soldiers’ ability to control their horses through the walk, trot and canter “gates” while the jumping event had riders negotiate a course in a set pattern while jumping their horses over obstacles. Combat horsemanship featured riders negotiating a set pattern while wearing full period-correct uniforms and using their pistol, carbine and saber demonstrating full control of their horses. The pistols and sabers events had the riders negotiate a set pattern and engage targets with their pistols and sabers.

Focusing on fundamentals was huge for ensuring the team was ready for this competition, said Lee.

“The success of the team started with collectively coming together and going back to the basics, where the most-experienced riders trained with the least-experienced riders,” he said. “We blocked off a week every month for training. During that week, all projects halted so that we could just focus on training.”

Fort Carson riders placed in the top three of every event.

Cantwell won the overall award for Level 3, the Hesse Cup. He finished first in combat horsemanship, second in military horsemanship and third in pistols and jumping.

In the Level 1, beginner, competition, Spc. Charles Michalik won the overall award and took first in sabers and pistols and third in jumping. Staff Sgt. Randy Gales earned second in combat horsemanship.

In the Level 2 competition, Spc. Brandon Robinson won the overall award and took first place in military horsemanship and sabers and second place for combat horsemanship and jumping. Sgt. Brian Vogt took first place in jumping and pistols and third place for military horsemanship and sabers.

In the Level 3, advanced, competition, Spc. Alexander McGuire, placed first in military horsemanship and pistols and third in sabers.

“Horse control was definitely a major factor for our riders in preparation for these events. We trained enough to know exactly what speed the horses needed to go in order to successfully negotiate each course,” said Lee.

The 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard started participating in ceremonies and events in July 1965. Today, the MCG is involved with the military and local communities, participating in change of command, retirement and unit casing ceremonies; parades; rodeos; public demonstrations and regional and national cavalry competitions. The team has grown from 10 horses and 10 riders in 1965 to 21 horses, two mules and 21 personnel today. Members wear uniforms to replicate the 1875-1885 era, to include a cavalry saber; 1904 McClellan saddles and the Springfield long rifle, all reproductions.

By Spc. Anthony Bryant

14th Public Affairs Detachment

Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, enter a building occupied by the opposition force at the urban operations village at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 26, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Troops loaded onto helicopters before dawn awaiting the aircrew to start the engines and lift off for the air assault mission. After touching down at the landing zone, the troops bounded off and moved to assault the objective through a juniper forest.

Soldiers with 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, practiced war games and deployment operations April 18, 2017, to May 6, 2017, at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS) near Trinidad.

Combat missions were rehearsed extensively during “Operation Raider Focus,” the brigade’s certification and validation exercise in preparation for a rotation to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.

U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) leadership tasked 1st SBCT and key III Corps enablers to perform armor and cavalry tactics to help shape the operational concept for the Army 2020 — doctrine enabling a more lethal, expeditionary and agile force.

The opposition force sets 5.56 mm belted standard blank rounds on the arm of a fold-up chair during an April 26, 2017, “attack” at the urban operations village at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

The concept involves cavalry organizations that build situational understanding, identify opportunities, and provide the time and space necessary for the parent organization to maneuver and employ combat power against hostile forces. Armored organizations employ overmatched firepower to eliminate enemies using the situational understanding established by the cavalry.

These capability sets are inherent within 1st SBCT and the attached enablers participating in Operation Raider Focus — 6th Attack Reconnaissance Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.; 1st Battalion, 14th Field Artillery, 75th Field Artillery Brigade, Fort Sill, Oklahoma; and 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

The combination of these forces theoretically ensures versatility in combined arms maneuver and wide-area security settings and provided nearly a brigade and a half of combat power, said Maj. Tommy Chae, executive officer, 1st SBCT. There were close to 4,500 Soldiers involved in the exercise at PCMS, he said.

From left, Pfc. Michael E. Sherman, Sgt. Michael C. Brew and Staff Sgt. Christopher L. Rogers, infantrymen, Company B, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, establish a guard position and pull security to enable squads to push forward to clear an objective at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS) April 25, 2017. Soldiers with 1st SBCT were at PCMS from April 18, 2017, to May 6, 2017, for “Operation Raider Focus,” the brigade’s certification and validation exercise in preparation for the brigade’s upcoming rotation to the National Training Center. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Chae said PCMS presents a realistic deployment scenario compared to doing field operations on post.

“When you’re at (Fort Carson), you’re next to your office, your motor pool and your support area,” he said. “When you’re at Piñon Canyon, you actually deploy from (Fort Carson) so you have to take everything you need to fight, and when you get here, you have what you have. So it’s a good exercise of deployment operations as well as understanding how to fight, anywhere in the world, without having your home station right next to you.”

Along with getting certified, Lt. Col. Victor Satterlund, commander, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st SBCT, saw the field problem as a golden opportunity for his junior leaders.

“Lieutenants only get so many opportunities to do a company combined arms live-fire exercise or major training event like at Piñon Canyon,” said Satterlund. “Junior officers and junior field grades receive an immense amount of institutional knowledge from working these types of exercises. In their careers, they’ll carry forward with them the good and bad lessons learned from the field to make a well-rounded officer.”

1st Sgt. Tyler S. Brownlee, second from left, Company B, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, briefs Company B Soldiers April 25, 2017, about their role in the following day’s air assault mission during the “Operation Raider Focus” exercise at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, gather before moving to an objective after being air assaulted at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 26, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, race to round a corner to engage a hostile enemy at the urban operations village at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 26, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Infantrymen from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, lay in the prone fighting position after exiting a UH-60 Black Hawk during an April 25, 2017, air assault mission at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

Infantrymen from Company C, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, lay suppressive fire during an “attack” at the urban operations village in Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site April 26, 2017. (Photo by Spc. Anthony Bryant)

By Sgt. Gregory T. Summers

4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Capt. Miller Tisson, AH-64 Apache helicopter pilot, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, discusses the Apache’s helmet-mounted display unit used for target identification and flight information May 4, 2017, at Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

More than 100 veterans returned to their old stomping grounds May 4, 2017, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their deployment to Vietnam.

The 189th Assault Helicopter Company veterans were welcomed back to the Mountain Post and Butts Army Airfield by Soldiers and leaders of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division.

The Department of the Army activated the 189th at Fort Carson Nov. 1, 1966. After training, elements of the company began deploying to Vietnam May 1, 1967, assigned to the 52nd Combat Aviation Battalion — one of the largest aviation battalions ever formed and assigned in support of the 4th Inf. Div.

The Army fully incorporated the helicopter and its mission capabilities for the first time during Vietnam. Transport and gunship helicopters provided tactical advantages, allowing troops to be hauled rapidly in and out of the battlefield, faster movement and distribution of supplies, as well as aerial, on-call route clearing.

As the veterans returned to Butts Army Airfield for the first time after many years and took their seats inside a hangar they had never seen, Col. Lori L. Robinson, commander, 4th CAB, simply said, “Welcome home.”

“Iron Eagle” Soldiers and leaders of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, show Vietnam veterans formerly assigned to the 189th Assault Helicopter Company and their spouses a CH-47 Chinook helicopter May 4, 2017, at Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

The brigade’s arsenal of aircraft, including the HH-60 Black Hawk MedEvac, AH-64 Apache and CH-47 Chinook helicopters, set the conversation table and backdrop as Soldiers and veterans spent the morning celebrating the Army, Army aviation and each other.

“We were truly honored, humbled and excited to host these Vietnam veterans and they were happy to be here today,” said Robinson. “I think it was equally impactful on our pilots and crew members as today’s interaction was one of a kind.”

Stories, laughs and smiles were plentiful among the veterans and 4th CAB Soldiers as they conversed around the helicopters. Pilots and crewmembers of their respective aircraft gave guided tours, helped veterans into cockpits and gave crash courses on today’s modern flight controls.

Capt. Randall Nordlund, commander and AH-64 Apache pilot, Company B, 4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB, said it was the opportunity of a lifetime.

A Vietnam War veteran formerly assigned to the 189th Assault Helicopter Company at Fort Carson captures a photo of an AH-64 Apache in flight at Butts Army Airfield May 4, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

“We are all extremely grateful for their service and none of us would be doing what we do today if it wasn’t for them,” Nordlund said. “Today ranks as one of the best days in my military career, and I truly enjoyed listening to their stories and showing them Army aviation’s new horses. This was a special day for me.”

The day was equally special for the veterans.

“Today was one of the most meaningful reunions we have ever had together,” said George H. Meeker, former UH-1 Iroquois cargo helicopter crew chief with the 189th. “This is truly one of the highest of highs since our return from Vietnam. We are extremely thankful for these Soldiers and this day.”

While many decades have passed and many things have changed since the Vietnam War and their service at Fort Carson, the veterans have always had a special place at the Mountain Post.

“Back then, unfortunately, they did not receive the welcome home that we have (had) over the past 15 years, but we wanted them to know how much they mean to us,” said Robinson. “They are always welcome here and forever will be a part of the ‘Iron Eagles’ family.”

“Iron Eagle” Soldiers and leaders of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, show Vietnam veterans formerly assigned to the 189th Assault Helicopter Company and their spouses an HH-60 Black Hawk MedEvac helicopter May 4, 2017, at Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Montalto, AH-64 Apache pilot, 4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, discusses the capabilities and tactical features of the helicopter with Vietnam veterans May 4, 2017, at Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Leadership from 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, welcomes over 100 Vietnam veterans and their spouses back to Fort Carson’s Butts Army Airfield May 4, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

More than 100 Vietnam War veterans and their spouses pose for a group photo May 4, 2017, in front of the 4th Infantry Division’s Headquarters at Fort Carson. They veterans returned to the Mountain Post in celebration of the 50th anniversary of their deployment to Vietnam in 1967. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

By Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Performers from the Plenty Wolf Singing Group based out of Denver perform a veterans song May 5, 2017, during a promotion ceremony for Capt. Raeseana Phelps. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris)

In 1909, the Oglala Lakota Sioux laid to rest one of the most prominent members and leaders of its tribe, Chief Red Cloud. This warrior and statesman who led his people through many wars and difficult times, would live on in the history of his people and in his own descendants.

One of his great-great-great grandsons, Melvin Red Cloud, would be posthumously awarded a medal for his service as a Lakota Code Talker during World War II.

Chief Red Cloud’s family continued its legacy of service to the nation when his great-great-great-great grand­daughter, Raeseana Phelps, was promoted to captain in the U.S. Army.

The project manager assigned to the 4th Infantry Division was promoted May 5, 2017, during a ceremony in front of the Mountain Post Warrior Memorial stone that bears the name of her father, Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Wade Phelps, who was killed in action in Iraq in 2005.

Bobbi Phelps pins new rank on her daughter, Capt. Raeseana Phelps, project manager with 4th Infantry Division, during a ceremony May 5, 2017, at the Mountain Post Warrior Memorial, in front of the memorial stone that includes the name of their husband and father, respectively, who was killed in Iraq in 2005.

“It means a lot to me to get promoted here. So much of what I do today comes from small things I learned from him,” Phelps said.

“I remember before he deployed (when) we were saying our goodbyes and thinking we had more time (to spend together), but he wanted to go to his Soldiers who didn’t have their Family with them. He wanted to go and sit with them. He was always looking out for his Soldiers and other people,” she said.

Phelps said her motivation comes from her father and mother, Bobbi Phelps, who is also an Army veteran.

The captain is a member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe from Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and holds the distinction of being the first of her tribe to graduate from the U.S. Military Academy. She did so in 2013, branching field artillery with a follow-on assignment to Camp Casey, Korea.

“Seeing her get promoted means so much to me,” Bobbi Phelps said. “Before her father was killed in

Iraq, this was our plan for her. After her father was killed, she didn’t want to do it but she came through at the last minute and signed the acceptance letter to West Point.”

Ramon Bear Runner, right, veteran’s representative of the Oglala Lakota Sioux, and Toni Red Cloud present Capt. Raeseana Phelps with a star quilt during her promotion ceremony May 5, 2017. The star quilt is a customary gift given to members of the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe to honor their achievements. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris)

She added that she has no expectations for her daughter.

“I don’t have to set the bar for her anymore because of everything she has done, she continually sets the bar higher for herself,” Bobbi Phelps said. “What I have seen her do with school and the different jobs she has had, she is, in her time, doing what she needs to do. All I can do is watch, be proud and be there when she needs me.”

Carrying on the legacy and traditions of her people, Raeseana Phelps incorporated traditional tribal songs and presentations into her promotion ceremony. She said continuing her career is a celebration for her Family.

“Many of my Family members from both sides of the Family have served as enlisted in the military, so each step is important to our Family,” she said. “For me, it’s just a normal step or progression in my career. My Family keeps me humble and reminds me what this means to those who have come before me and those who will come after me.”

“You have all the responsibility of a division with about a quarter of the manpower. I hope you realize how strategically important it is.”

— Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges

By Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, signs the Polish Armed forces (PAF) Noncomissioned Officer Corps assessment alongside Maj. Gen. Jaroslaw Mika, general commander, (PAF), at 14th Military Business District, Poznan, Poland, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

POZNAN, Poland — Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, conducted a site visit May 13-14, 2017, at the new 4th Infantry Division Mission Command Element (MCE) headquarters located at the 14th Military Business Division.

The MCE recently relocated from Baumholder, Germany, to Poznan, Poland, to increase the U.S. Army’s capacity to provide mission command for deployed units in eastern Europe and enhance NATO allies’ and partners’ capabilities to deter and defend against any adversarial threat and respond to any crisis.

“It’s been 70 years since an American division has been in eastern Europe,” said Hodges.

“As (the 4th Infantry Division) begins to celebrate its centennial and D-Day (commemoration), there’s a strategic effect; you are the first American division in central Poland.”

The 4th Inf. Div. is the regionally-allocated division headquarters of U.S. ground forces conducting multinational training and security cooperation activities with NATO units in support of U.S. Army Europe’s Operation Atlantic Resolve.

The operation is a demonstration of continued U.S. commitment to the collective security of Europe through the deployment of rotational units to provide a persistent presence committed to the enduring peace and stability in the region.

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, left, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, presents Maj. John Zdeb, operations officer, 4th Infantry Division Mission Command, a USAREUR coin May 14, 2017, for his dedication to the mission and exemplary performance during the relocation of the new MCE headquarters at the 14th Military Business District in Poznan, Poland. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

Hodges conducted a walk-through of the headquarters, joint operations center and barracks, and received an operations update brief.

He met with Maj. Gen. Jaroslaw Mika, general commander, Polish Armed Forces (PAF), to sign a PAF Noncommissioned Officer Corps assessment.

A collaborative effort between U.S. Army and PAF, the assessment identified several key aspects of empowering and strengthening the Polish NCO Corps to enhance readiness, increase efficiencies in resource management and ensure competency and professionalism within the PAF.

Hodges presented awards and dined with MCE Soldiers.

“It was great to have a conversation with (Lt. Gen. Hodges) and see the big picture behind what we are doing here,” said 1st Lt. Patrick Bonner, battle captain, 4th Inf. Div. MCE. “We are all working very hard, and it was refreshing to hear him say that he is grateful for what we do here.”

Prior to leaving, Hodges expressed his appreciation for the support the MCE provides to the rotational units every day.

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, center, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, talks with 4th Infantry Division Mission Command Element Soldiers May 14, 2017, during a visit to the new MCE headquarters at the 14th Military Business Division in Poznan, Poland. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

“As the mission command element, you are responsible for everything from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea …,” he said. “You have all the responsibility of a division with about a quarter of the manpower. I hope you realize how strategically important it is.”

The general also said the effort to move an entire headquarters and establish operations in a place that was not intended for that purpose has not gone unnoticed.

“Like American Soldiers have always done, you adapted and you’re making it work,” Hodges said. “I thank you for that, and I want you to know how grateful I am.”

The MCE serves as the intermediate headquarters for more than 6,000 U.S. service members conducting bilateral training operations and multinational exercises with host nation defense forces in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria.

Garrison Public Affairs Office

Fort Carson will honor fallen Soldiers who lost their lives while deployed from the installation in a ceremony at 10 a.m. May 25, 2017, at the Mountain Post Warrior Memorial in Kit Carson Park near Gate 1.

During the ceremony, four Soldiers’ names will join the 395 other Fort Carson Soldiers and Airmen who paid the ultimate sacrifice. They are: Staff Sgt. Christopher A. Wilbur, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division; and Maj. Andrew D. Byers, Sgt. 1st Class Ryan A. Gloyer and Staff Sgt. Adam S. Thomas, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, will be the keynote speaker.

Since 2004, Fort Carson has commemorated Soldiers and Airmen from the Mountain Post who have lost their lives fighting in support of overseas contingency operations since 2003. The ceremony will include the unveiling of the four new names inscribed on the memorial stones and honor the fallen military servicemen and women whose names are etched in the memorial stones.

The memorial ceremony is open to the public. Visitors are asked to use Gate 1, Fort Carson’s main gate, located just off of State Highway 115. From there, they will be directed to parking that will not require access to Fort Carson. The main gate will close to both inbound and outbound traffic 30 minutes prior to the event and reopen after the event is complete.

No pets will be allowed at this event with the exception of service animals. Glass bottles and firearms are prohibited.

By Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Sgt. Nathan Schrimsher, modern Pentathlete with the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, throws the ceremonial first pitch May 13, 2017, at Security Service Field in Colorado Springs under the watchful eye of Sky Sox mascot Sox the Fox. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

COLORADO SPRINGS — Soldiers took center stage at Security Service Field May 13, 2017, as the Colorado Springs Sky Sox held its annual Fort Carson Appreciation Night.

The Milwaukee Brewers’ top affiliate dedicates one game a season to show its appreciation to the Mountain Post Soldiers, civilians and their Families by highlighting service members during its pregame activities.

The 4th Infantry Division Band welcomed fans to the stadium as they played several songs. Once in their seats, fans watched the pregame ceremony as a Soldier-athlete threw out the ceremonial first pitch, an Army musician sang the national anthem as the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard saluted the crowd and then a cannon salute battery from 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., conducted a salute. After the game, fans were treated to a fireworks show as a final salute to honor Fort Carson and the U.S. Army.

The Sky Sox have held many military appreciation night events over the years.

The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard salutes during the national anthem May 13, 2017, prior to the Colorado Springs Sky Sox game at Security Service Field in Colorado Springs. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

“We changed things around to enhance the experience for the Soldiers and their Families who come out to the ballpark. (The United Services Automobile Association) jumped on board to allow us to be able to provide a really special night with fireworks and all the pageantry that should be involved in saluting our nation’s military,” said Tony Ensor, president and general manager for the Sky Sox for the past 13 years.

Sgt. Nathan Schrimsher, a modern pentathlete with the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, threw the ceremonial first pitch.

“I just threw the first pitch here representing the U.S. Army and the World Class Athlete Program — it was such an honor,” said Schrimsher. “It was military appreciation day, it’s an awesome day for Soldiers and Families to come here and be recognized by the local community and players.”

Soldiers with the Mounted Color Guard led their prancing horses into position to post the nation’s colors prior to Spc. Kayla Winslow, 4th Inf. Div. Band, singing the national anthem.

Spc. Kayla Winslow, 4th Infantry Division Band, sings the national anthem prior to the Colorado Springs Sky Sox game May 13, 2017, at Security Service Field. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

“This is my job, I sing for all (types) of games, but I think there is something special about singing for a baseball game. You sing for a lot of ceremonies, but this is ‘America’s pastime,’” said Winslow.

She said military appreciation nights are important because it allows the military to build camaraderie with the neighboring communities.

The pregame festivities ended with a traditional U.S. Army salute performed by a 15-man salute battery.

“It’s an honor to do what I do, what others have done before me and what others will do after me. It’s just a great feeling to know that I’m a part of something that keeps America great,” said Spc. Phillip Miller, cannon member, 2nd Bn., 77th FA.

Ensor said he enjoys the baseball and military cohesion.

“Baseball and our men and women who serve in the military go really well together; we have tremendous support from the military Families that come out,” said Ensor. “Baseball is all-American, our military is all-American; it’s because of what our men and women in the military do that we’re allowed to put on a game at a ballpark.

“Baseball is every part of America as anything else, and our military is the same, so together it’s a great partnership with their Families that love to come and watch baseball in their local community,” he said.

The Sacramento River Cats, Triple-A farm club of the San Francisco Giants, defeated the Sky Sox 11-2.

The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard trot on to the field to post the nation’s colors May 13, 2017, during Fort Carson Appreciation Night at Security Service Field in Colorado Springs. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

A salute battery with the 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, performs a salute during pregame activities May 13, 2017, at Security Service Field in Colorado Springs. The annual Fort Carson Appreciation Night featured Soldiers throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, singing the national anthem and the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presenting the nation’s colors. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

A salute battery with the 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, performs a salute during pregame activities May 13, 2017, at Security Service Field in Colorado Springs. The annual Fort Carson Appreciation Night featured Soldiers throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, singing the national anthem and the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presenting the nation’s colors. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Micah VanDyke)

An M109A6 Paladin field artillery crew with Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, provides indirect-fire support to tanks and mechanized fighting vehicles from the brigade’s 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment and the Romanian 282nd Mechanized Brigade during a combined arms live-fire exercise at Smardan Training Area, Romania, April 20, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Everett Snellings)

By 2nd Lt. Alexandra Mikle

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU AIR BASE, Romania — Since arriving here in late March 2017, M109A6 Paladin artillery operators from Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, have combined forces — and firepower — with their Romanian counterparts from the 285th Field Artillery Battalion.

As the battery’s 1st Platoon embarked on a four-week training exercise throughout April at the Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Soldiers had the opportunity to show the Romanians the capabilities of their self-propelled howitzers and how a U.S. fire direction center operates.

Additionally, the platoon participated in Justice Eagle 17, a combined arms live-fire exercise conducted by tank and Bradley fighting vehicle crews from the armor brigade’s Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, and the Romanian 282nd Mechanized Brigade. The field artillery platoon provided indirect fire support during the tank and mechanized infantry maneuvers.

Artillerymen from the Romanian 285th Field Artillery Battalion fire am M1981 152mm towed gun-howitzer during a combined arms live-fire exercise with the Company C, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, and Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, both with the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, at Smardan Training Area, Romania, April 20, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Everett Snellings)

“It’s been an unbelievable experience for me to train with the Romanians on my first deployment. To get to show them what we can do, and watch them in action is a learning opportunity I wouldn’t get back home at Fort Carson,” said Pfc. Austin Brock, cannon crewmember, Battery A, who was promoted at the end of the training.

The battery will continue to stay busy in the Black Sea region as part of the 3rd ABCT’s mission under U.S. Army Europe’s Atlantic Resolve with the mission of maintaining a persistent presence throughout eastern Europe to serve as a deterrent against aggression.

Another platoon has been conducting training and preparing equipment for a move to Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria, where it will support the 1st Bn., 8th Inf. Reg., participation in the Bulgarian national exercises Eagle Sentinel 17 and Peace Sentinel 17.

“We are incredibly excited and fortunate to have these unique training opportunities with Romania,” said Sgt. Kyle Burgess, 3rd Bn., 29th FA Reg. “It’s times like these where we get to show what we do and get better at being artillerymen.”

Artillerymen from the Romanian 285th Field Artillery Battalion receive training on the U.S. M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer from Soldiers of Battery A, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, at Smardan Training Area, Romania, April 15, 2017. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Everett Snellings)

“This exercise provided every opportunity to test our limits — and then some.”

— Lt. Col. James A. Barber

Soldiers with the 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, conduct radio communications training during a field exercise April 28, 2017. (Photo by 1st Lt. Erin Williams)

By 1st Lt. Erin Williams

404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division

Soldiers and aviators assigned to the 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, conducted a field training exercise at Fort Carson’s Training Area 51, April 20, 2017, through May 1, 2017.

The two-week exercise allowed the battalion to test its full organic capabilities in a rigid environment, further develop an expeditionary mindset and integrate support for brigade-level tasks and missions.

“The goal was to ensure every Soldier can gain experience and build confidence while operating in a tactical setting,” said Lt. Col. James A. Barber, commander, 404th ASB. “This exercise provided every opportunity to test our limits — and then some.”

Soldiers from across the battalion conducted various training to include sling-load operations, convoy exercises, land navigation, survival training and a round-robin event of warrior tasks and battle drills.

Soldiers assigned to the 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, receive their briefing prior to conducting a promotion board during a field training exercise. (Photo by 1st Lt. Erin Williams)

The array of training was completed while simultaneously fully manning and operating a forward arming and refuel point (FARP) for the 4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB, aerial gunnery and providing communications and signal operations in support of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., Raider Focus exercise at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site.

Soldiers with the 404th ASB experienced severe weather conditions during their training to include high winds, thunderstorms and 36-hours of snow and hail. Despite the adverse conditions, the battalion pushed forward and continued training with high morale and a renewed sense of camaraderie.

Soldiers received two hot meals a day provided by Headquarters Support Company, 404th ASB. A fully capable field maintenance section and combat kitchen ensured vehicles, equipment and Soldiers had the fuel to work and train.

“The ‘Providers’ have again proven that they have what it takes to accomplish any mission,” said Barber. “I am extremely proud of our Soldiers, NCOs and officers, knowing that they stand ready to support the 4th CAB and the 4th Infantry Division.”

Food service specialists assigned to the 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, prepare a hot meal for Soldiers of the battalion during a field training exercise. (Photo by 1st Lt. Michelle Cardenas)

Soldiers assigned to Headquarters Support Company, 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, prepare to conduct preventive maintenance checks and services on their vehicle after receiving nearly 6 inches of snow. (Photo by 1st Lt. Erin Williams)

Soldiers assigned to the 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, conduct medical operations training to better prepare overall mission readiness. (Photo by 1st Lt. Michelle Cardenas)

Pfc. Adam Henrik, chemical operations specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, helps a student on to an obstacle course May 1, 2017, during Cougar Fun Night at Gold Camp Elementary School in Colorado Springs. . (Photo by 2nd Lt. Kent Williams Jr.)0909

By 2nd Lt. Kent Williams Jr.

4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

COLORADO SPRINGS — The sound of laughter filled the air May 1, 2017, as Soldiers, students, parents and faculty participated in the Gold Camp Elementary School “Cougar Fun Night.”

Eleven Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, teamed up with faculty to help put on the event.

Connecting the community with the military is a priority for the Soldiers of the “Raider” Brigade, said Lt. Col. Eric McCoy, 4th BSB commander.

“A military that loses connection with the public it defends is in a dangerous place and risks losing sight of its purpose,” said McCoy. “At a time when less than 1 percent of the population serves in the military, the disconnect between society and the armed forces can seem great, at times eclipsing any and all awareness of one side by the other. Beyond the occasional parade, sports event or news story, the isolation of the military from civilians, and vice versa, does little for either side to show the value of either.”

Staff Sgt. James Weatherly, heavy vehicle driver and squad leader, Company A, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows a child were the line for the bounce house begins May 1, 2017. (Photo by 2nd Lt. Kent Williams Jr.)

For this reason the “Packhorse” Battalion has partnered with Gold Camp Elementary School and participates in many of its functions as part of the Fort Carson Adopt-A-School Program.

“Knowing Soldiers is important, as they are not just a video game charter or an image on a screen; they are human beings with names and faces,” said Jason Attias, 6th-grade teacher at Gold Camp Elementary.

Soldiers set up inflatables, to include bounce houses and obstacle courses; helped with food service; escorted and played with students; and coached competitions. They were also able to bring their Family members to join in the fun.

“I enjoyed working with the kids; it’s nice to think we can give back and be a part of the community,” said Pvt. Gram Becks, petroleum supply specialist, Company A, 4th BSB.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kyona Hendricks, right, supply support activity (SSA) accountable officer, 64th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, explains how the SSA is processing a tank track for delivery, to Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, center, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, and Division Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, left, during a site visit of the brigade headquarters at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, May 12, 2017. (Photo by Capt. Harrison Smith)

By Capt. Scott Walters

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Long days last summer preparing their Supply Support Activity (SSA) at Fort Carson for the U.S. Army Forces Command Supply Excellence Award competition are translating into smoother operations in Europe for supply handlers at the 64th Brigade Support Battalion.

These days the 64th BSB warehouse team normally pushes out parts as big as tank engines and as small as washers to other units within the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from its European SSA at the brigade’s Atlantic Resolve headquarters in Grafenwoehr, Germany.

But on May 11, 2017, it was Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, and Division Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, 4th Infantry Division and

Fort Carson delivering some award hardware to the unit. The 64th BSB Soldiers earned the runner-up billing in the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) competition’s SSA category.

The lessons learned preparing for the competition have turned out to be the real reward, as the SSA now processes and ships parts from Germany to the 3rd ABCT’s combined-arms battalions spread across eight countries from the Baltic to the Black seas.

Supply support activity (SSA) Soldiers with the 64th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, pose for a photo with Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, right of center, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, and Division Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, left of center. The command team delivered the U.S. Army Forces Command Supply Excellence Award SSA category second-place trophy during a site visit of the brigade headquarters at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, May 11, 2017. (Photo by Capt. Harrison Smith)

“The competition rates you on your command supply discipline, which forced us to really tighten up our procedures. Using what we learned from that, especially with distribution of parts all over Europe, has helped us tremendously,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kyona Hendricks, 64th BSB SSA accountable officer.

Since arriving in Europe in January 2017, efficiency in processing parts has been essential to ensuring the brigade remains ready to fight as it provides a persistent presence across eastern

Europe. As the regionally allocated land force for Atlantic Resolve, the ABCT serves as a deterrent to aggression in support of NATO allies and partners.

The SSA competition put 64th BSB Soldiers through a crucible of stress that has unintentionally prepared them for a heavier load in Europe. FORSCOM inspectors visited the SSA during a three-week window in July between a brigade 20-day field training exercise and a rotation at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.

“We had 20 days — all long hours — to get ready for that inspection at the most challenging time, but the Soldiers made it happen,” said Hendricks.

She added that her Soldiers renovated the entire warehouse to make it more customer friendly and reviewed supply regulations to ensure every Soldier understood doctrine.

That resulted in a score of 248 out of 250 during the August inspection.

After four months in Europe working under Atlantic Resolve, the SSA has delivered more than 18,000 parts to Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. By comparison, during the same period last year back home in Colorado, the SSA processed 7,700 parts.

“Parts change hands often here, whether they’re going to Romania or Estonia, so accountability is key. But if everyone is doing their job all the way to the customer, from labeling parts correctly to getting them on the right trucks, then we’re accomplishing our mission to ensure that we’re building combat power out there for our units,” Hendricks said.

Cpl. Jeffery Penn understands better than anyone that if the right processes aren’t in place, then parts won’t go to the right places.

As the NCO in charge of the issuing section, he said the FORSCOM competition helped each SSA section fine-tune its procedures. It’s benefited the team now in a new environment, especially as new Soldiers arrive and must learn the supply ropes.

“We’ve got a new team that we’re building now, but the processes established during the competition are in place and everybody is learning,” said Penn, who was in charge of the SSA storage section at the time of the competition.

“It’s exciting to see how the younger Soldiers that we were training during the competition last year have grown so much, and they know what’s needed to produce everything that this SSA produces. They’re sharing that knowledge with the new Soldiers,” he said.