By Sgt. William Howard

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Cadet Given Breckenridge joined the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, along with 11 other Army ROTC candidates for Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) Aug. 8, 2015.

CTLT provides cadets an opportunity to experience leadership in an Army unit over a three- to four-week period. Cadets are assigned a unit mentor, provided on-post lodging and meals and all CTLT positions are linked to a specific regiment of the Leaders Development Assessment Course.

“My experience at Fort Carson has been eye-opening so far,” said Brecken­ridge, who’s majoring in Criminal Justice at Alcorn State University. “This is my first look at how the active Army actually works, so I’m learning a lot about what actually happens in the Army instead of just ROTC.”

So far, Breckenridge has trained on planning for a range and a field problem, motor pool stability and basic soldiering skills with members of the 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st SBCT.

“We’re giving the cadet a rundown of how the Army works,” said 1st Lt. David Sievers, fuel and water platoon leader, 4th BSB. “Each day I give him to different Army personnel (such as) a Soldier or another platoon leader so he gets a broad overview of everything that’s going on within our unit.”

Sgt. Lamont Bell, section sergeant, Company A, 4th BSB, said he thinks the real-world experience is more valuable for cadets than just hitting the books.

“I think it’s a good program for the cadets,” said Bell. “They can work with platoon leaders and noncommissioned officers so they can see firsthand what to expect when they have a platoon of their own.”

Sievers said he has a piece of advice for all future officers.

“Take care of your Soldiers, always do the right thing and your Soldiers and chain of command will take care of you,” he said. “If you’re always doing the right thing and working hard you’ll have no problems.”

Sgt. William Shemin’s Medal of Honor plaque joins the ranks with 23 other 4th Infantry Division Soldiers on the wall of honor in the division headquarters building Aug. 20, 2015. (Photo capture by Staff Sgt. Rob Oson)

By Scott Prater

Mountaineer staff

The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson honored a hero by placing his Medal of Honor plaque on the division’s wall of honor Aug. 20, 2015.

Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, honored Sgt. William Shemin, Company G, 2nd Battalion,

47th Infantry Regiment, 4th Inf. Div., by leading a ceremony where the plaque was officially placed on the wall at the 4th Inf. Div. Headquarters.

“Today is a humbling moment for the Army and the 4th Infantry Division as well as a proud moment for the Shemin Family as Sgt. Shemin’s Medal of Honor plaque takes its proper place on our wall of honor, among his 23 fellow heroes who were assigned or attached to the 4th Inf. Div.,” Gonsalves said during his ceremony address.

Shemin, a World War I veteran, had previously been overlooked for the nation’s highest military award for valor, but President Barack Obama presented the award posthumously June 2. Shemin’s daughter, Elsie Shemin-Roth, accepted the award on her father’s behalf.

“A couple of weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Elsie Shemin-Roth who, despite her own 87 years, had every bit as much energy and spunk as I’m sure her father did so many years ago,” Gonsalves said in front of a packed auditorium. “In fact, I believe President Obama referred to her energy as a ‘platoon’s worth of Shemins.’ As I spoke with her, the pride and deference for her father’s service came loud and clear through the phone as she recounted her father’s story of heroism, service and his undying affinity for the 4th Infantry Division.”

From Aug. 7-9, 1918, during the Aisne-Marne

Offensive in France, Shemin distinguished himself by gallantry above and beyond the call of duty. His Distinguished Service Cross (DSC), citation reads:

“For extraordinary heroism in action on the Vesle River, near Bazoches, August 7, 8, 9, 1918. Sergeant Shemin, upon three different occasions, left (cover) and crossed an open space of 150 yards, exposed to heavy machine gun fire, to rescue the wounded. After officers and senior noncommissioned officers had become causalities,

Sergeant Shemin took command of the platoon and displayed great initiative under fire until wounded August 9.”

Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, in 1896, Shemin joined the Army in 1917. During World War I he was assigned as a rifleman in Company G, 47th Infantry Regiment, which moved from New York to North Carolina, becoming part of the 4th Division. The division was part of the American Expeditionary Forces in France.

The 47th Infantry Regiment was assigned to the 7th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. The regiment took part in four European campaigns during World War I with 40 of its members receiving the DSC.

After surviving the battle and actions for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor, Sergeant Shemin recovered from his shrapnel wounds and a bullet wound to his head and was discharged from the Army in 1919. He returned to the New York City area to live a proud but humble life that included starting a nursery business in the Bronx, attending Syracuse University and raising a family of three children.

“Despite such a full life, Sgt. Shemin was certainly not done serving,” Gonsalves said. “As President Obama noted in his White House speech on June 2nd, ‘when World War II came, William went and talked to the Army about signing up again … to his wife’s great relief, the

Army said that the best thing William could do for his country was to keep running his business and take care of his Family.’”

Carl Calderon places the Ranger Tab onto the uniform of his son, Staff Sgt. Michael Calderon, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during Ranger School graduation Aug. 21, 2015 at Fort Benning, Ga. Michael Calderon was the William O. Darby Distinguished Honor Graduate for the class. (Photo by Markeith Horace)

Haver 1 of 2 women; Calderon earns distinguished honor

By Dani Johnson

Garrison Public Affairs Office

Four Fort Carson Soldiers, to include one of the first female Soldiers to attend the course, graduated the U.S. Army Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia, Aug. 21, 2015.

1st Lt. Shaye L. Haver, an AH-64 Apache pilot, 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, and another female officer were the first women to graduate from Ranger School. The first Ranger class in Army history to include female candidates began April 19, 2015 with 20 women among the 400 Soldiers.

Other Fort Carson graduates include infantrymen Staff Sgt. Michael C. Calderon, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, who was named the William O. Darby Distinguished Honor Graduate; Sgt. 1st Class Cyril L. Komanecky II, 1st Bn., 38th Inf. Reg., 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.; and Spc. Logan A. Williams, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd IBCT, 4th Inf. Div.

Haver said she wanted to go to Ranger School because she knew it would make her a better leader for her Soldiers.

“The reasons I chose to come were the same as the men here: to get the experience of the elite leadership school … and to give me the opportunity to lead my Soldiers the best that I can,” said Haver. “I think if females continue to come to this course, they can be encouraged by what we have accomplished, but hopefully they’re encouraged by the legacy that the Ranger community has left.”

Haver said it might have been a natural assumption that the female students would have wanted to band together for support, but that was not the case. Instead, she said, support came from those Soldiers closest to them — as it would be in combat.

“We immediately integrated in our squad and became teammates that way,” she said. “It was never about the women trying to beat the men through Ranger School, or the women banding together for any reason in Ranger School. … We intentionally tried to rely on our squad mates, because they are the closest to us, and not the females around us.”

The 2012 U.S. Military Academy graduate’s leaders look forward to her bringing her leadership skills back to the brigade.

“We are extremely proud of 1st Lt. Haver’s distinguished accomplishment as one of the first female Ranger School graduates,” said Col. Lori Robinson, commander, 4th CAB. “Her dedication and determination in completing the course served as a tremendous example for all Soldiers and leaders in 4th CAB, 4th Infantry Division and the Army. The skills she has learned will enhance her capabilities as an Army aviator and tactical leader in the Army.”

Her battalion commander echoed the sentiments.

“On behalf of the entire 1-4 ARB, 4th CAB, and the ‘Iron Horse’ Division, we congratulate 1st Lt. Haver on graduating Ranger School and helping to pave the way for our female Service members as a result of this magnificent milestone,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Gilbertson. “1st Lt. Haver demonstrated outstanding dedication, perseverance and physical toughness through this arduous process. We are extremely proud of her accomplishment, her ability to break barriers, and we look forward to her returning to our team and resuming her platoon leader position in the near future.”

Calderon, a Menifee, California, native, received the distinguished honor graduate award named in honor of Brig. Gen. William O. Darby, who organized the 1st Ranger Battalion in 1942 with handpicked volunteers leading the way onto the beaches of North Africa. It is awarded to the Ranger who shows the best tactical and administrative leadership performance, has the most positive spot reports and has demonstrated being a cut above the rest. The recipient must also pass all graded leadership positions, peer reports and may not recycle.

The newest Rangers will be combat multipliers as they share their training and expertise throughout their brigades, said Col. Matthew Cody, commander, 2nd IBCT, 4th Inf. Div.

“Staff Sgt. Calderon has proven himself to be one of our very best, by not only graduating from one of the hardest schools in the military, but by doing so with distinction as the honor graduate.

His professionalism, technical and tactical expertise and his motivation are something every leader can aspire to.”

Editor’s note: Army News Service, Sgt. Jonathan Thibault, 4th CAB Public Affairs Office, and Sgt. Nelson Robles, 2nd IBCT Public Affairs Office, contributed to this article.

Lt. Col. James R. Cutchin, civil military relations officer, 4th Infantry Division, makes a pass during a new staff orientation physical training session on Pershing Field Aug. 21, 2015. (Photo by Sgt. William Smith)

By Sgt. William Smith

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

New staff officers and NCOs received an introduction to the 4th Infantry Division, learning about each of its war fighting functions, Aug. 20-21, 2015.

During the orientation, new staff members developed an understanding of what all of the sections that make up a division do and the importance of working together to make the division stronger.

Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, stressed the need for his staff to work together to provide Soldiers with what they need.

“Those men and women have a lot on their shoulders,” he said. “This is the busiest division in the Army. If you just look at 2nd (Infantry Brigade Combat Team) alone, they came back from deployment and had to reform. They went down to Fort Knox (Kentucky) to train cadets, they will come back, take a few days and go to the National Training Center (at Fort Irwin, California).”

Maj. Ryan Nugent, exercise planner, 4th Inf. Div., said the training was an eye-opening experience.

“I have never worked at the division level,” said Nugent. “I really enjoyed learning about what the Mission Command Element is doing in Europe. It is of great importance, and I look forward to doing a rotation over there.”

Gonsalves said the high operations tempo has taken a toll on leaders taking care of their Soldiers.

“We need to care for people like they are one of our Family members,” he said. “Call and check on them. If they need some help, you help them, give them guidance and counsel them. A simple conversation goes a long way; I want you to engage your folks, understand each other, care for each other, visit their houses, visit their Families and understand what is going on in their lives.

“Some people have a lot of stresses in their lives,” said Gonsalves. “I think we have lost that care and concern for one another. Does that mean be easy on them? No, hold them to the standard.”

Spc. Laban Sialo, medic, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, trains Aug. 21, 2015, for the upcoming Military World Games Marathon in Mungyeong, South Korea. (Photo by Sgt. Nelson Robles)

By Sgt. Nelson Robles

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

Some Soldiers run for physical training; one Soldier from 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will run to represent the Army in the Military World Games Marathon Championship in Mungyeong, South Korea in October, 2015.

Spc. Laban Sialo, medic, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd IBCT, 4th Inf. Div., said he has run for as long as he can remember.

“Growing up in Eldama Ravine, Kenya, we used to run to school about 4 miles one way,” Sialo explained. “We would get in trouble if we were late, so we ran as hard as we could. Lunch was not served in school so we had to run home for that as well.”

Sialo moved to the United States seven years ago to attend college.

“I attended the University of Central Missouri and ran on their NCAA track and cross country team,” Sialo said. “I competed at a national level and won All-American honors nine times and won one national championship.”

After graduation, Sialo decided to join the Army.

“I wanted to serve the country and bring my running skills to the Army,” Sialo said. “I used a program called Military Accession Vital to National Interests (which takes) people who have specialized language skills … I speak Swahili.”

Once Sialo completed his initial training and arrived at Fort Carson in June 2014, he searched for a running team.

“When I met him, he told me he wanted to go run on the Fort Carson running team so I asked him how fast he was,” said Capt. Jaylen Smith, commander, HHC, 1st Bn., 12th Inf. Reg. “He was too humble and polite to answer truthfully about his amazing gift, and even though he had only been at this high-altitude for two weeks, he beat every other Soldier on his trial run, including the ones who were already on the team.”

Once on the team, Sialo set his sights on competing in the 2014 Army Ten-Miler.

“I didn’t really have enough time to properly train, but I had a great coach who helped me prepare,” Sialo said. “I made it onto the Mountain Post Ten-Miler Team and we won, beating all other teams from all different Army posts. We had the best time combined and won the Commander’s Cup, presenting it to the commanding general.”

Working with the American Distance Project, coach Scott Simmons has trained Sialo since his arrival to the unit.

“Spc. Sialo is a hardworking, conscientious Soldier and athlete who always gives his best and is never afraid of challenges,” Simmons said. “Marathons and marathon training are arduous and time consuming, but Laban finds a way to make it work.”

Sialo had to place well in many competitions including the Army Ten-Miler, the Marine Corps Marathon and a Cross Country Championship to qualify for the Armed Forces Team.

“Running is something I’ve been doing since I was young; it is a part of my life now,” Sialo explained. “I like training and winning, and being a part of the U.S. Army team motivates me to do my best.”

Rep. Scott Tipton, 3rd District of Colorado, observes Soldiers traversing the training area with the aid of Spc. Johnathon Courtot, sniper team leader, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a tour of Fort Carson and its training areas, Aug. 25, 2015. (Photo by Sgt. Nelson Roble)

By Sgt. Nelson Robles

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

Rep. Scott Tipton visited Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) exercise Aug. 25, 2015.

The congressman, who represents the 3rd District of Colorado, visited to learn more about the daily lives of Fort Carson Soldiers. He also observed 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., aerial gunnery training.

“Fort Carson is critical not only for national defense but also for our state’s economy, El Paso County, Pueblo County and beyond,” Tipton said. “This was a great oppor­tunity to come out and engage our military professionals, something that in my mind every American should be thankful for at night. These men and woman put their lives on the line for this country to be able to protect freedom.”

With the restructuring of the military in Colorado, Fort Carson has been a subject of discussion.

“We’re going to be voting on certain issues (related to Fort Carson) and it’s always great to be able to have that firsthand knowledge,” said

Tipton. “I like to be able to look someone in the eye to understand when we’re asking them to do something what resources they need, what obstacles may arise.”

Maj. Talon Young, operations officer, 1st Bn., 12th Inf. Reg., noted the battalion had a large turnover of Soldiers and the MOUT exercise was the first opportunity for the Soldiers to train at a platoon level.

“We get to see the very best of our country right here, with their dedication and professionalism,” said Tipton. “It doesn’t come easily; obviously there is a lot of training, a lot of forethought, a lot of coordination and a lot of challenges to overcome.”

Visits such as Tipton’s help build the relationship between Fort Carson and Colorado’s lawmakers.

“I’m really glad Rep. Tipton is taking the time to come out and observe training, meet some of our Soldiers and learn what the lives of Soldiers consist of,” said Young.

“Anytime representatives and lawmakers want to come out and observe training, we welcome the opportunity. We can show them what our capabilities are, how we train, what our day-to-day activities are and what our constraints and limitations are. Anytime we get the opportunity to show them that in person, I think it does far more than any other type of communication that we can have with them.”

Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, right, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, shows Staff Sgt. Michael Calderon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, his photo in the Aug. 28 Mountaineer that accompanied the story announcing Calderon as the Ranger School Distinguished honor graduate. (Photo by Capt. Nathan Barlow)

By Sgt. Nelson Robles

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

Throughout a historic class at the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program that included the first female graduates and a lightning strike in the field, one Soldier stood out among the graduates.

Staff Sgt. Michael Calderon, sniper team leader, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, was recognized as the William O. Darby Distinguished Honor Graduate during the Aug. 21, 2015, graduation at Fort Benning, Georgia.

“Being a Ranger instructor before and knowing what it takes to go through that school, it speaks highly of (Calderon) as a person,” said Sgt. 1st Class Branden Velazquez, Calderon’s platoon sergeant. “I’m extremely proud of him (knowing) the things he had to go through to earn distinguished honor grad.”

Calderon, who grew up in Menifee, California, credits his sister for his never-quit attitude.

“I owe a great deal of who I am to my sister, Andrea Zaragoza. She’s not in the military, but she is one of the most motivating people in my life,” said Calderon. “She is a great person who really has mental strength. She has the mindset that nothing is going to beat her, that she isn’t going to fail and she instilled that in me at a young age. I’m convinced that if she tried Ranger school, she would make it.”

Calderon said that almost all of his platoon in the course, 44 Soldiers and instructors, were struck by lightning during training.

“It gave us faith in our instructors because after we were struck, within 10 minutes aircraft were on (the)ground (to) MedEvac us out,” he said.

“It’s a 62-day marathon and once you get to the last phase, you have no time to do anything but accomplish the mission.”

Calderon explained after completing the course he had a whole new perspective on time.

“Coming back home, when I had my first weekend I looked at my watch and thought 36 hours, I can accomplish anything,” he said.

With his Ranger Tab affixed, Calderon hopes to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

“Before going to Ranger School, those with tabs would always tell me, ‘You need to go to Ranger School’ and I never understood it,” he said. “After graduating, I can say that it is absolutely the best training I have ever had. Now that I’m back, I want everyone to go. I want them to graduate and say, ‘You were right, I’m a whole different person and I can accomplish any mission.’”

Capt. Jaylen Smith, HHC commander, said Calderon’s accomplishments didn’t come as a shock.

“I think his success began months before (Ranger School) with his preparation,” said Smith. “Not only did he train physically for the challenges ahead, he tenaciously sought out as much information as he could about Ranger School. The first sergeant and I are incredibly proud of his outstanding accomplishment at Ranger School. He is an amazing Soldier who will use this experience to contribute greatly to the success of our organization.”

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey, Martha Reed and her daughter, Air Force Master Sgt. Hope Kennedy, unveil a dedication plaque during an Aug. 28, 2015, ceremony renaming the Special Events Center the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Rob Oson)

By Walt Johnson

Mountaineer staff

A capacity crowd jammed into the Special Events Center Aug. 29, 2015 to witness the facility being renamed in honor of William “Bill” Reed, its former manager.

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey, who served as the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson top enlisted leader from March 2009 to August 2011, presided over the ceremony officially renaming the facility the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center.

Dailey said it was only fitting that the center be renamed for a Soldier and a man who gave his heart and soul to making it the best home for returning Soldiers and a place where everyone felt welcome. He also pointed out that Reed’s wife, Martha, was just as instrumental in the success of the center.

“Bill and Martha are the most selfless people I know,” Dailey said. “I’m not even sure why they even owned a home, because they lived at the Special Events Center it seemed. Any day of the week, you could find them here at 2 a.m. if needed. They would do anything for a Soldier or their Family — anything, at any time. They loved Soldiers. This was their calling and that’s why it’s so appropriate that this place he built, sustained and loved is now named in his honor.”

Following the invocation and national anthem, the ceremony began with every available Soldier-athlete from the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), one of the groups Bill Reed worked the closest with, presenting Martha Reed and her daughter, Air Force Master Sgt. Hope Kennedy, with flowers.

“On behalf of the WCAP, we want to present these flowers to you to let you know how much we love and appreciate everything you and Mr. Bill did for us over the years,” said Charles Leverette, WCAP head boxing coach, who worked with Bill Reed for years and recently retired from the Army.

The center was filled with former commanding generals, former sergeants major and people of every rank who came to pay their respects to Bill Reed. While everyone in attendance seemed to have a story to share about Bill Reed, many said the one thing they still hear when they walk into the center is his favorite question, “What have you done for your Soldiers today?”

“He will forever be smiling down on this place,” Garrison Commander Col. Joel D. Hamilton said.

Bill Reed walked with all Soldiers alike, caring for what they needed and giving little regard to whether it would inconvenience him.

An Olympic hopeful wrestler said the one thing he will never forget is what Bill Reed would always tell him prior to his matches: “There are two things I don’t like, wet toilet paper and losing.”

The athlete said those words motivated him.

“Bill was always a big fan of our wrestling program and the WCAP, and he would always have a great speech for us prior to our matches when he accompanied us. I can’t think of anyone who deserves this honor more than he does, and I think it’s great that the facility will bear his name,” said Staff Sgt. Aaron Sieracki.

Dailey said he will always remember how the Reeds provided a place for Families of deployed Soldiers to go if they needed anything.

“My wife is sad she couldn’t be here today. Just last night she said how indebted she is to Martha and Bill for making the center a home away from home, especially during the deployments. And she remembered fondly how they would let my son, Dakota, play basketball and how much fun he had here. They did that for any Army Family member. Moms could drop their kids off at the center, and Bill would spend the day teaching them basketball. He advised and supported commanders with great pride, knowing he and his wife were providing a service in this building that ultimately supported readiness and a strong Family team,” Dailey said.

Soldiers spin the prize wheel during the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Block Party Aug. 27, 2015, at the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, barracks near Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Carleton Lane)

By Carleton Lane

Garrison Public Affairs Office

The wind was whipping, the clouds were threatening, but still the beanbags were flying at the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Block Party Aug. 27, 2015.

The second of three block parties this summer, BOSS brought fun, food and festivities to Soldiers in the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, barracks by Butts Army Airfield. While open to all Soldiers, the location this time was brought to Soldiers separated from the main post, who may not have transportation of their own.

“The block party brings BOSS to the Soldiers, instead of the other way around,” said Sheryle Miller, BOSS adviser, Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. “These events targeted three different units, based on deployment and training schedules.”

Despite the foul weather, a crowd of 100 Soldiers from across post showed up to the event that featured free food from local vendors, a performance by the 4th Inf. Div. Band, lawn games and door prizes. Football tickets, water park tickets and Outdoor Recreation trips were the featured giveaways.

Soldiers at this event came mostly from the 4th CAB barracks, but the BOSS team coordinated with the post shuttle to deliver Soldiers to and from their barracks around post.

Created by BOSS Council, the block party aims to provide midweek, after-work fun delivered to single Soldiers, geographically separated bachelors and other interested members of the Fort Carson community.

“This helps the Soldiers by giving them something to do instead of being stuck in their rooms,” said Spc. Anna Lopez, BOSS president. It gives the opportunity for “Soldiers to meet others in their barracks building, and get an opportunity to have a fun safe night with other single Soldiers.”

Pfc. Hannah King, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th CAB, was at the latest block party and said she plans to participate in the next one.

“It helps Soldiers get out … food, music, fun and you get to meet new people.”

The event aims to boost quality of life in the barracks, with the intention of getting Soldiers out of their barracks, interacting with Soldiers in and outside of their units, said Miller. Holding it midweek gives Soldiers something to look forward to that doesn’t get in the way of weekend plans.

The last BOSS Block Party of the summer is Sept. 17, 2015 at 5 p.m. It will be located at the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th inf. Div., barracks, building 1663 on Magrath Avenue between Prussman and Nelson boulevards. All Soldiers are welcome to attend.

Soldiers of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, secure a Stryker vehicle to a rail car with chains during rail load operations for deployment to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, Aug. 26, 2015. (Photo by Sgt. William Howard)

By Sgt. William Howard

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Relief mixed with a slight drizzle of rain washed over a crowd of Soldiers as they finished a long day of rail load operations at Fort Carson Aug. 26, 2015.

Soldiers of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, worked throughout the week to load and secure more than 1,700 containers and vehicles onto rail cars in preparation for an upcoming deployment to the National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, California.

As soon as the brigade returned from training at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Las Animas County June 18, 2015, unit movement officers (UMO) started the planning process for NTC.

“Every company has an assigned unit movement officer and they coordinate the equipment of each company and organization to be shipped via air, train, truck or boat to deploy anywhere worldwide,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Whiteland, company operations NCO in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st SBCT. “There’s one UMO and a lot of equipment.”

Whiteland said early planning and time management were crucial when juggling the additional duty with his daily responsibilities.

“You have to start early because the time runs quickly,” said Whiteland. With accurate organizational equipment lists, UMOs representing organizational levels from company up to brigade created a unit deployment list (UDL); a list of the containers and vehicles the unit is shipping.

The UDL was then submitted to the unit movement coordinator (UMC) who’s responsible for creating a load plan that assigns all of the containers and vehicles to rail cars. The UMC is the primary point of contact between the deploying unit, the installation and other commands for overall deployment transportation support.

“We’re responsible for making sure that units are ready to deploy,” said Shanette Thornton, UMC, Fort Carson. “We always have joint planning meetings with the units from day one.”

Thornton said her team members average 30 years of experience in transportation and they work alongside Soldiers to load all of the equipment.

“It’s been a pretty big operation,” said 1st. Lt. Adam Arnold, reconnaissance platoon leader, HHC, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st SBCT. “Every level in the chain of command is doing (its) part and trying to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.”

Seven exchange cadets from West Point class of 2017 take an oath to affirm their commitment to Army service, Aug. 28, 2015. The West Point Society Pikes Peak Region and officers of 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are sponsoring cadets

By Sgt. William Howard

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY — Officers of 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and the

West Point Society of the Pikes Peak Region sponsored U.S. Military Academy cadets attending the U.S. Air Force Academy during an oath of affirmation ceremony Aug. 28, 2015.

The oath of affirmation is the official commitment of cadets entering their fourth year in the program.

The seven exchange cadets from the West Point class of 2017 are attending the first semester of their senior year at the Air Force Academy as part of the Academy exchange program.

“It’s our honor to have a part in their professional development,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Ewers, commander, 2nd Bn., 23rd Inf. Reg. “I think any exposure that you can have as a cadet to an actual real-life Army organization, whether from a training or social perspective, is only going to make them better leaders.”

Even though the ceremony wasn’t held at West Point, New York, Joshua Reed, exchange cadet class of 2017, said it was still an important moment because of who he was able to share it with.

“I got to share it with some of my best friends. Just to know that we’re going through this together, get to serve together and go through the great and rough moments together,” said Reed, a native of Denver.

The West Point Society of the Pikes Peak Region’s mission is to promote the goals and ideals of West Point, said Stover James, president.

“When you start your third year, you’re incurring a commitment to the Army or the Air Force,” said James, who graduated from West Point in 1976. “If they drop out now, for any reason, they still have a commitment to the military.”

By Scott Prater

Mountaineer staff

Soldiers and Family members observed Women’s Equality Day at McMahon Auditorium Aug. 26, 2015.

Women’s Equality Day was established by Congress in 1971 in honor of the amendment granting women’s suffrage. But, the observance of Women’s Equality Day not only commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment, it also calls attention to women’s continuing efforts toward full equality.

The celebration was hosted by the 4th Sustainment Brigade and the 4th Infantry Division Equal Opportunity Office.

Capt. Lakisha Coffey, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th SB, provided opening remarks and introduced the event’s keynote speaker, Lillie Ben, managing partner for Essentria Financial Experience, LLC, a registered investment advisory firm.

Coffey highlighted some of the successes generated by American women’s struggle for equality throughout the past nine decades, including the passage of Title IX in the 1970s; President Ronald Reagan appointing the first woman to the United States Supreme Court, Sandra Day O’Connor, in the 1980s; and passage of the Lilly Leadbetter Fair Pay Act in the 2000s.

She concluded her introduction by mentioning that the 4th Infantry Division’s own 1st Lt. Shaye Haver was one of the first two women to graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger School Aug. 21, 2015.

When Ben took the stage she focused partly on Haver and her classmate, Capt. Kristen Griest.

“These women are trailblazers and game changers,” Ben said. “We can now expect many more women to not only participate, but graduate from Ranger School. Why do we say this?”

Ben explained by recounting the story of

Roger Bannister, who ran mankind’s first sub-4 minute mile in 1954. All of those runners before him could not finish the mile in under four minutes. But once the record was broken, it took only six days for another runner to set a new record by a full second.

“This is why Haver and Griest are what I call the Roger Bannisters of Ranger School,” Ben said. “They’ll encourage other women to know that they can emotionally, physically and mentally be capable of succeeding.”

As a financial planner and adjunct professor, Ben’s passion is educating women and instilling them with greater confidence and competence.

Moving forward, she said women can observe the success of Haver and Griest by striving for equality on a personal and individual level.

“Women’s equality is nothing short of human equality,” Ben said. “And, we can help achieve equality through respect for ourselves and others and also by adding value. We can see in the interviews with Haver and Griest that they emanated a tremendous amount of respect for their fellow Soldiers.”

She explained that it’s easy to measure the respect someone has for another simply by watching how that person treats another person. So, it should be easy then for people to improve the respect they have for others.

Likewise, selflessness and awareness are key for identifying individual added value.

“Identify your value add,” she implored attendees.

“Do this not for yourself but for the others, identify your added value from another’s point of view.”

She said women displayed this respect and the idea of added value during their struggle to earn the right to vote early in the 20th century.

“Equality was a value-add issue in understanding even then,” she said. “Women added value in terms of their political participation. (Much like the women who strived to attain equality 90 years before them) Griest and Haver absolutely proved that women’s equality is achieved by their personal attainment of their respect and added value.”

Garrison Commander Col. Joel D. Hamilton capped the celebration by thanking Ben for her thoughtful words and recounted a day earlier this year when a female Soldier helped deliver a baby near Gate 20.

“That female specialist from the 759th (Military Police) Battalion showed her value add by stepping in, and delivering a baby,” he said. “Her leadership, her value added to that formation that day kicked everybody else into action and saved a life.”

By Sgt. William Smith

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, visited the 4th Infantry Division Sept. 14, 2015, to discuss Strong Europe and receive an update on division operations.

The Strong Europe concept aims to create beneficial opportunities, improve interoperability and capacity in partners and allies.

Strong Europe is Army Europe’s main contribution to NATO, its allies and partners. It acts as the main U.S. enabler to NATO land forces on behalf of U.S. European Command.

“The security environment in Europe has changed tremendously in the last year and a half with Russia’s invasion and illegal annexation of Crimea and (its) support of separatists in eastern Ukraine,” said Hodges. “The 28 nations of NATO and the nations of the (European Union) agreed that Russia’s use of force to change recognized borders of a sovereign country is unacceptable.”

The response that came out of the NATO Wales Summit 2014 identified a need to assure allies of their collective commitment to each other, a need to adjust the procedures and ability to respond fast to give political leaders options; that it was necessary to maintain pressure on Russia through sanctions and a demonstrated deterrent capability, so Russia would not use force to change borders in Europe, Hodges explained.

He noted there are five pillars that are vital for the Army to sustain for mission success in Europe.

“The first is putting more on our junior leaders,” said Hodges. “Right now a captain — company or troop commander — is probably the senior U.S. commander in almost any of the Atlantic Resolve countries. On a day-to-day basis that is what we are talking about. We have NCOs doing things in countries that in the past a major used to do.”

The second pillar is access to the National Guard and Army Reserve.

“The Guard has so much capability but it is not free; so getting funding for them to come over is a challenge,” he said.

The third pillar is acquiring more support from allies.

“U.S. Army Europe (USAREUER) doesn’t have a bridge that can carry and sustain an Abrams tank,” said Hodges. “We have discovered that the Germans and (British) do have it, so we are doing joint exercises with them to practice river crossings. These are things we are healing ourselves, by going out and finding ally capabilities to fill gaps that we have.”

Hodges said the fourth pillar is reliance on the Regionally Aligned Force, the 4th Inf. Div. Mission Command Element, and rotational forces, and he hopes to add special operations to the mix.

“Another pillar is regional allocated forces — the 4th Infantry Division,” he said. “Without them I would not have adequate command capability to run all of these exercises, and, more important, to be able to conduct operations if we had to inside of Europe.”

The fifth pillar is active engagement.

“These 51 exercises we are participating in this year — at least battalion size or larger — I don’t know if I have ever done 50 exercises in my Army life,” said Hodges. “It is this kind of activity — using rotational forces, allies, bringing people over from the States, the operational tempo is higher than it would be if they were deployed to Afghanistan.”

Personnel limitations

Hodges said he is concerned about the amount of Soldiers available for the threats he faces in Europe.

“When you look at the 4th Infantry Division and all that (it has) going on, it is eye watering — there just aren’t enough people to do all of the Army’s missions,” he said. “We don’t have the same capabilities that we used to have. We have 30,000 Soldiers forward stationed in Europe; we used to have 300,000. When we had 300,000 our mission was to assure our allies and deter the Soviet Union. With 30,000 the mission is still to assure our allies and deter the Russians. We have got to make that 30,000 look and feel like 300,000.”

Hodges said the Army may not be big enough to do all that it is required, but as long as Congress continues to provide the European Reassurance Initiative (ERI) money — or contingency funding — he is confident rotational forces will be able to continue to come over, allowing for USAREUR to be successful. It will enable access to the National Guard and Army Reserve supplementing the capabilities that he doesn’t have.

“If there is no more ERI or it becomes reduced, then we will absolutely be at significant risk,” he advised. “We won’t be able to conduct these exercises. We won’t be able to maintain the heavy equipment that has been brought back, and we won’t be able to assure our allies.”

Hodges explained that the investment of troops and equipment the Russians have made in Kaliningrad and Crimea for access and area denial makes it challenging should U.S. and NATO forces need to respond to future aggression in the Baltic and Black Seas because of the air defense capability, the electronic warfare capability and the anti-ship missile capability.

“(Russia’s) ability to amass a large number of troops when (it does) these snap exercises without warning and without notification is a worry to us,” Hodges said.

“We are working as hard as we can to be able to assemble quickly so that we can deter, instead of react, to a situation.”

Overcoming challenges

The 4th Inf. Div. has been the Mission Command Element in Europe for the past nine months.

“This mission has been a learning experience for us and we are getting better every day,” said Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson. “We are building relationships not only with our military partners but also our country teams and ambassadors every day.”

The MCE is comprised of approximately 90 Soldiers and is responsible for all of the ground activity happening in Europe.

“We are doing 51 exercises this year in which American Soldiers are involved — all multi­national exercises,” Hodges explained. “The 4th Infantry Division is providing the MCE for those. This is a capability that I didn’t have a year ago because we have gotten so small in Europe.”

The Army is bringing tanks back to Europe, he added.

“We have a heavy brigade (of equipment) that is on the ground now and it is going to stay in Europe,” he said. “The brigade will be part of something we call European Activity Sets that will be company to battalion size, 20-50 armored vehicles, in each of the Atlantic Resolve countries — Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, as well as in Germany — so that rotational heavy units can come over and use that equipment to train for three to six months.

“This provides assurance to the allies that a U.S. Army tank is being kept in a maintenance facility in their country waiting for a unit to come over,”
explained Hodges. “It is part of what we are doing that will enable us to move a lot more quickly versus having to bring tanks from the U.S.”

Gonsalves said his perspective as a division commander is to provide the forces necessary to support Hodges when he deems it necessary that they
be brought forward.

“Readiness is my Number 1 priority,” Gonsalves said. “Our 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team is at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California, preparing for decisive-action operations. We are really looking at combined arms maneuver as well as wide area security.”

Gonsalves plans to ensure a high state of readiness is maintained.

“We will do that by conducting supplemental exercises, sustainment gunneries, maintaining our equipment at a very high standard,” he said. “We are doing everything from a division perspective at a tactical level to provide those forces necessary to answer Lt. Gen. Hodges’ call.”

Gonsalves said he has requested to be fully aligned with the USAREUR mission, not only as the MCE but to provide operational units as well.

“What we are going to see is our rotational forces — hopefully in the near future — from this division going forward and continuing to build on those relationships,” Gonsalves explained.

Hodges said he wants to see Russia become a part of the international community again.

“Russia has actually been a pretty good partner for the last 20-something years,” Hodges said. “We had Russian soldiers with us in Bosnia. The Russian view that they are entitled to buffer states and a ‘back yard,’ that they can change borders is unacceptable in the 21st century.”

Representatives from the five military services and local first responders participate in the Pikes Peak Area 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony at Fort Carson’s Kit Carson Memorial Park Sept. 11, 2015. (Photo by Antonio Francis)

By Staff Sgt. Craig Cantrell

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

All five branches of the armed forces, Canadian forces and first responders represented their respective services during the Pikes Peak Area 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony held at Fort Carson’s Kit Carson Memorial Park Sept. 11, 2015.

U.S. Senator Cory Gardner, Deputy Chief Vince Niski, Colorado Springs Police Department Patrol Bureau, and other distinguished community members of the Pikes Peak and Southern Colorado region assembled before a twisted steel beam that once supported one of the World Trade Center towers in New York and now stands in tribute to that fateful day.

“Just as Americans have done for each of the last 14 years on 9/11, today we pause to remember and honor the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost in New York City, at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania — all at the hands of those who intended to inject fear and assault the freedom inherent to the American way of life,” said Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, and host of the ceremony.

The attack cost 2,977 Americans lives, including more than 400 police officers, firefighters and first responders.

“We pause to recognize the hundreds of first responders, police officers, firefighters, (emergency medical technicians) — many of whom were among those thousands of innocent lives taken — who manifested that unyielding spirit that has come to define our times in a post-9/11 world,” said Gonsalves.

The terrorist attacks led to U.S. and British forces conducting airstrikes on Taliban and al-Qaida targets in Afghanistan Oct. 7, 2001, officially beginning Operation Enduring Freedom.

“While those horrific attacks etched indelible memories in the hearts of a generation of Americans, and for so many across the world, they have come to serve as an inspiration for the resilient spirit of a nation and its allies who refused to be intimidated by terrorism or ideological extremism,” said Gonsalves.

He thanked and recognized the thousands of first responders, law enforcement and emergency personnel who maintain the front lines of homeland defense.

“We still look back in awe and appreciation for those who moved toward the chaos of the moment, climbed up the
stairs of the burning World Trade Center (and) braved the smoke and fire of the Pentagon,” said Gonsalves.

The attacks cost more lives of law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency responders than any single event in American history.

“On Sept. 11, 2001, we saw ordinary people choose duty in the face of death. We saw loyalty overwhelm all senses of danger. We saw common people choose self-sacrifice for the good of strangers,” said Niski, who represented the Pikes Peak area police officers, firefighters and emergency responders for the 9/11 commemoration ceremony.

He quoted former President John F. Kennedy, who said, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors and remembers.”
Niski also reminded the crowd, “These solemn ceremonies on Sept. 11 will always be more than remembrance of the past; they are a tribute to both the living and the dead.”

Gardner recounted 9/11 and its impact on future Americans.

“For generations of Americans who have lived with Sept. 11 in their memories, they will forever talk about what this means to them,” said Gardner. “Out of the twisted structures of Sept. 11 came the steeled resolve of a nation that we will stand together to commemorate the Americans who gave their lives.”

The ceremony concluded with three wreaths laid at the base of Fort Carson’s 9/11 memorial to recognize the victims of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Shanksville.

The Pikes Peak Area 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony marked the second year all the military services and first responders of the Front Range community united at one memorial site to honor those Americans who lost their lives during the attack.

“It is a privilege to host this year’s ceremony and continue the tradition begun by North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command last year at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station,” said Gonsalves.

Ursula Miller-Waldrip, education services officer, Fort Carson, tells senior NCOs about the various programs and services the Education Center provides, during a symposium at the 4th Infantry Division Headquarters Sept. 8, 2015. (Photo by Sgt. William Smith)

By Sgt. William Smith

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Master sergeants through command sergeants major from 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson came together Sept. 9, 2015, to learn about services andprograms on the installation that are available to Soldiers and Families.

The topics focused primarily on Army Emergency Relief (AER), Troops to Teachers and services at the Education Center.

“The biggest thing I want all NCOs of the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson to grasp is an understanding of what programs and systems are available for our Soldiers and their Families, and who to contact if they need more information on how a program or system works,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson.

“I want them to understand the processes for AER and education opportunities for the Soldiers,” said Crosby. “They must understand the process and what that system does for the Soldiers.”

Operations Sgt. Maj. Kelly Kowalski, 759th Military Police Battalion, said the symposium was a great opportunity to build cohesion between senior NCOs across the installation. “We have to continue to learn and be up-to-date on what programs and services are available for our Soldiers and their Families,” she said. “It is truly our job as NCOs to teach and mentor our Soldiers, who will one day replace us.”

Several changes have occurred to programs available to Soldiers and their Families, said 1st Sgt. Margaret Hood, 4th Infantry Division Band.

“The symposium has helped give a better understanding of those changes,” said Hood. “I definitely have a better understanding of … the link that the command financial NCO serves with the command and Army Community Service. A lot of our Soldiers have been out in the world and have had to pay bills, but for some this is their first job. We have to be able to mentor them and get them help when it is needed. Life happens to everybody.”

Capt. Cristin Browne, commander, Company B, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, talks about the UH-60 Black Hawk with 192nd Assault Helicopter Company Vietnam veterans during a reunion tour at Butts Army Airfield on Fort Carson Sept. 11, 2015. (Photo by Sgt. Jonathan C. Thibault)

By Sgt. Jonathan C. Thibault

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

Laughter rang throughout 4th Combat Aviation Brigade’s hangars as Vietnam aviation veterans and CAB Soldiers traded deployment stories during a 192nd Assault Helicopter Company reunion tour at Butts Army Airfield on Fort Carson Sept. 11, 2015.

Col. Lori Robinson, commander, 4th CAB, 4th Infantry Division, and four CAB Soldiers exchanged wartime experiences with 192nd AHC veterans during a tour and discussion forum.

“Most of the veterans that I’ve talked to have been crew chiefs,” said Sgt. Daniel Bishop, UH-60 Black Hawk crew chief, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB. “We talked about the similarities and differences of what we do now and what they had to do back then. We talked about how a lot of the missions are the same in regards to the good times and the bad times. The conversations were great.”

Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Darell Koenig, 192nd AHC, said being able to talk with the aviation Soldiers was a great finale to their reunion tour at Fort Carson.

“We wanted to see the differences between aircraft and missions from the 1970s to now,” said Koenig. “Another great addition to our visit was the nostalgia that the majority of our pilots, crew chiefs and aircraft mechanics felt, having been stationed at Fort Carson in the past. This was like a homecoming for a lot of them.”

Koenig said there haven’t been many Vietnam veteran reunions over the years, and this visit was an opportunity that they wouldn’t want to miss.

“Since Vietnam, most of us tried to raise Families and build careers, and others continued to serve, which kept all of us busy over the years,” said Koenig. “This was a great opportunity for us to get together, reminisce and share the camaraderie that we feel meeting with each other and with the Soldiers of the CAB.”

Capt. Cristin Browne, commander, Company B, 3rd AHB, 4th Avn. Reg., said the veterans’ wartime stories showed many commonalities between the aviators from 50 years ago and their counterparts today.

“A lot of the (things) are the same, such as our relationships with our co-pilots, crew chiefs and door gunners,” said Browne. “The greatest benefit that I got out of the stories was finding out that these pilots had more than 30,000 flight hours of experience and they were still learning things every time they flew, just as our pilots do.”

Sgt. Martin Hough, left, sniper, and Staff Sgt. Charles Salotti, sniper platoon sergeant, both with 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, make adjustments to the M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle system Sept. 9, 2015. This model’s buttstock can easily be adjusted to fit the individual shooter and absorbs much of the recoil of firing the weapon. (Photo by Sgt. Nelson Robles)

By Sgt. Nelson Robles

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

Soldiers from 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, received new weapon systems Sept. 1, 2015, from the U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command out of Warren, Michigan.

The M3 84 mm Recoilless Rifle and the M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle will increase the capabilities of the 2nd IBCT.

“We are the first (regular infantry unit) to field the M3,” said Staff Sgt. Chad Sparks, platoon sergeant, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd IBCT. “This new system is similar to the AT-4, but the M3 is much more accurate, has further range and it’s a multiround, multiuse weapon. With the AT-4s, it was a single use weapon that constantly needed disposal. With the M3, we can continually reload and fire it.”

Although the M3 is not new to the Army, this is the first time it is being fielded to infantry units, said Terry Mercer, TACOM fielding team lead.

“These M3s have been used by the Special Forces and Rangers, and there was an emergency needs statement that came out of theater requesting these weapons to be fielded to the IBCTs,” said Mercer. “It went higher to Headquarters (Department of the Army) and they decided to produce about 500 of them to be fielded throughout the IBCTs to the infantry units.”

This system doesn’t replace the AT-4, it just adds a new capability for the unit.

“It is generally used to take out larger weapon systems (such as) anti-aircraft guns, vehicle convoys and positively identified vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIED),” said Sparks. “Since this system is accurate and powerful, we can engage exactly what we are looking at, quickly reducing the threat. You can also eliminate a VBIED threat with accuracy using a single shot from a further distance as opposed to using the .50 (caliber and) burning up a ton of rounds.”

The M2010 is replacing the M24 Sniper Weapon System.

“I used this system before in my previous unit; it is heavier but I think it is completely worth it,” said Spc. Rodrigo Jimenez, sniper, 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd IBCT. “I’d take the weight to have the extra stopping power and range. This rifle shoots a stronger round accurately over 1,000 meters ,as opposed to our previous 800-meter max. This will give us better stopping power and increase our combat effectiveness to control enemy movement at a greater distance.”

Once the new weapons were inventoried and signed for, 2nd IBCT Soldiers tested their newly assigned M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle systems Sept. 9, 2015.

The snipers of 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg., received instruction on the new rifle system from David Parris, TACOM training specialist.

“The four hours of classroom training involved an overview of the characteristics and capabilities of the weapon system, field stripping, operator repair, cleaning and maintenance,” said Parris. “Now they own the weapon system and have to maintain it as such.”

Parris explained the M24 was sent back to Remington and refitted with .300 Winchester Magnum rounds and the barreled action was placed into a Remington arms chassis.

“About the 2012 timeframe it became the XM2010, which was experimental and issued as a loaned weapon system to brigade combat teams who were deploying to theaters of operations.”

Officially out of the experimental stage, the M2010 is now the primary weapon system for the 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg., sniper platoon.

“The previous system we were using — the M110 Semi-automatic Sniper System — is a great personalized weapon that is accurate to about 800 meters,” said Staff Sgt. Charles Salotti, sniper platoon sergeant, 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg. “The best thing about this new weapon system is that it can reach out to 1,200 meters and further advance our skills as far as external ballistics and marksmanship fundamentals. It helps you keep more distance between yourself and the enemy; that is key.”

Some snipers were firing the system for the first time.

“The main differences between this and the M110 are the higher power rounds, its increased accuracy (and) range and an improved optic,” said Sgt. Martin Hough, senior sniper, 1st Bn., 41st Inf. Reg. “You have a lot more flexibility in adjusting the weapon to be comfortable for each individual shooter, too. With the new rail system you don’t have to use tape to hook optics onto it.”

Hough added, “Firing weapons like this is the reason I joined the Army.”

After familiarization classes, the Soldiers collected data from the weapon.

“After the basic 100-meter zero, they will gather data on previous engagements from 300 meters out to 1,200 meters,” said Salotti. “Once collected, they can quickly reference this data and adjust their weapon accordingly to engage targets accurately at multiple ranges.”

Congresswoman Diana DeGette, 1st Congressional District of Colorado, presents former Staff Sgt. Joseph Gilmore Jr. the Soldier’s Medal at the Denver Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1 Sept. 22, 2015. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

By Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

DENVER — Family, friends, police officers and Service members gathered Sept. 22, 2015, in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1 to watch former Staff Sgt. Joseph Gilmore Jr. formally receive the Soldier’s Medal, the highest honor a Soldier can receive for an act of valor in a noncombat event.

Congresswoman Diana DeGette, 1st Congressional District of Colorado, and Retired Col. Aaron Tucker presented the former 4th Infantry Division military policeman with the medal for his actions during a fire on Fort Carson 42 years ago.

Gilmore, an Aurora native, now retired attorney, repeatedly entered a burning building Feb. 20, 1973, to save its contents.

“I knew what was in the building, which were artillery weapons,” Gilmore explained. “I did not know if they were loaded with ammunition, but I did know that they were loaded with fuel. If that fire would have torched off one of those weapons systems, it would have been catastrophic.”

Realizing the eminent danger, Gilmore, without regard for his own safety, located an axe and broke the lock on an armored personnel carrier, which was on fire, and drove it to safety.

“By the time I’d gotten down into the vehicle, the fire was coming down the hatch, which took my breath away,” he said.

He was not able to recall much from that point, except stalling out in a deuce-and-a-half which “jolted him back to the present,” he said.

Gilmore returned to the blazing building and drove three other vehicles — a M35 2.5-ton cargo truck, an M163 Vulcan and an XM47 Chaparral to safety.
He suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation but his heroic actions saved the Army more than $1 million, according to the award citation.

Now 42 years later, the former staff sergeant is finally getting the recognition he deserves, said DeGette.

“It’s a wonderful feeling with everything going on in this country to find a courageous veteran and recognize him for his contributions and sacrifices for his country … it’s extraordinary,” said DeGette.

Navy Retired Lt. Jim Downing poses for a photo with Soldiers of Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a Sept. 16, 2015, visit to Fort Carson. (Photo by Capt. Lorenzo Stephenson)

By Capt. Lorenzo Stephenson

Plans and operations officer, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security

A survivor of the Pearl Harbor attacks discussed the fateful events that transpired Dec. 7, 1941, during a visit to the Mountain Post Sept. 16, 2015.

Navy Retired Lt. Jim Downing, now 102 years old, spoke to in-processing Soldiers, Family members and cadre at Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson, about his experience that day as a 28 year-old gunner’s mate first class, leadership qualities and the common thread shared by exceptional leaders.

During his visit to Fort Carson, the 24-year Navy veteran had lunch at the Wolf Dining Facility, received a windshield tour of Fort Carson and visited with Soldiers of Battery C, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

While visiting with Soldiers of 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg., the Korean War veteran received an overview and capabilities brief for the M777 howitzer, a 155 mm artillery piece. The Soldiers of Battery C displayed their skills and knowledge of their primary weapon system by demonstrating crew drills.

Downing’s windshield tour entailed visiting ongoing construction at Butts Army Airfield, observing rail operations at the Fort Carson railhead, an overview of Fort Carson ranges, 2nd IBCT footprint and the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) facilities.

The tour culminated with a visit to the garrison headquarters where he visited with the Garrison Command team, Col. Joel D. Hamilton and Command Sgt. Maj. Clinton Reiss.

Pfc. William Harvision reunites with his wife, Audia, and son, Isaiah, during a welcome home ceremony at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center Sept. 18, 2015. Harvision, a field artillery firefinder radar operator, 2nd Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, deployed to Iraq where he performed base defense operations. While deployed, Harvision, along with his platoon members, provided radar coverage for the Special Purpose Marine and Ground Task force at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, detecting incoming fire and alerting personnel on base. (U.S. Army photo by Diandra Harrell)

By Staff Sgt. Diandra Harrell

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

Families rushed to reunite with their loved ones Sept. 18, 2015, at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center (SEC). Filled with joy, some laughed or jumped into the open arms of their dads; seeing them for the first time in months.

Twenty Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, completed a nine-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The operation supports the military intervention against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

While deployed, the regiment’s Target Acquisition Platoon provided radar coverage for the Special Purpose Marine and Ground Task Force at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, detecting incoming indirect fire and alerting personnel on base. The regiment has the first U.S. Army sensors with the capability to provide counterfire. The Soldiers provided more than a thousand hours of radar operations, ultimately protecting more than 900 U.S. and coalition Service members.

“It was definitely a learning experience for a lot of the younger guys; it was rough,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martavius Westbrook, radar platoon officer in charge, 2nd Bn., 12th FA Reg.

Although the load was heavy, the Soldiers completed their mission with enthusiasm and a high level of professionalism, said Lt. Col. Allan Selburg, commander, 2nd Bn., 12th FA Reg.

“This radar platoon was chosen on short notice because (it was) ready,” said Selburg. “The Soldiers took on an extremely challenging mission in a very austere environment. It’s good to have a chief and the platoon back home, where they belong. I wish I was there to greet them but the rest of us are out here at (the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California) proving we’re ready if the call comes.”

With their mission completed, the Soldiers marched into the SEC where Family and friends had been anxiously waiting to see them again.

“I’m so happy to see him, but I’m so nervous,” said Katrina Martinez, wife of Sgt. Alejandro Martinez, field artillery firefinder radar operator.

After being welcomed home and thanked for their successful mission by Col. D.A. Simms, chief of staff, 4th Inf. Div., the Soldiers were released to their Family members who scrambled from the bleachers to embrace their loved ones with overdue hugs and kisses.

“I’m happy to be back — it’s almost surreal,” said Spc. Tyrell Wright, field artillery firefinder radar operator, 2nd Bn., 12th FA Reg.

The deployed Soldiers were awarded Combat Action Badges for their action in response to attacks on the air base Feb. 13 and March 8, 2015.

Mayor salutes troops

By John W. Suthers

Mayor, city of Colorado Springs

Welcome home Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

On behalf of the citizens of Colorado Springs, allow me to welcome you home from your nine-month deployment to Iraq. We appreciate your exceptional efforts in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and are aware that the radar coverage you provided for Al Asad Air Base was instrumental in protecting more than 900 U.S. and coalition forces against (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) attacks. Your Combat Action Badges are well-deserved.

We are thankful for your safe return and congratulate you on a job well-done. Now that you are home, take some time to enjoy the beautiful amenities of Colorado Springs, knowing that you have the admiration of a grateful community.