By Mary Kathleen Griffin

Cadet Summer Training Public Affairs Office

FORT KNOX, Ky. — 6th Regiment Advanced Camp cadets practice for combat readiness July 3 at Cadet Summer Training during a buddy-team live-fire training event Fort Knox, Ky. Soldiers with 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, supported the cadets by serving as cadre. (Photo by Mary Kate Griffin)

FORT KNOX, Ky. — After three days of preparation, 6th Regiment Advanced Camp cadets shot live ammunition July 3, 2019, on their final day of buddy-team live-fire training at Cadet Summer Training in Fort Knox, Kentucky.

“(The training) is basically moving and shooting with a fellow Soldier,” explained Sgt. Matthew Rinen, instructor, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. “It is meant to improve their confidence, teach them to communicate as a pair, move down a battlefield to an assaultive objective and ultimately throw a grenade.”

With cadre by their side for safety, cadets moved in pairs, providing suppressive fire for each other while alternating movement downrange. Wooden barriers and logs provide cover for cadets while they fire and prepare to launch mock grenades.

FORT KNOX, Ky. — Soldiers with the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, serve as cadre to 6th Regiment Advanced Camp cadets at Cadet Summer Training July 3, 2019, at Fort Knox, Ky., during the buddy-team live-fire training event to prepare the cadets for combat. (Photo by Mary Kate Griffin)

Before shooting live ammunition, cadets ran through the event with blank ammunition. Cadre spent time ensuring cadets were confident in their maneuvering and communication abilities before supplying them with live ammunition.

“Cadets shouldn’t be nervous at all,” Rinen said. “Their speed doesn’t matter. Cadre are going to take them by the reins and teach them the correct form so they have lots of practice.”

Cadet Maggie Brehm, attending Marist College, felt she was well-prepared to take on the range, after practicing multiple times.

“I had fired a live weapon before camp, but not in a military setting,” said Brehm. “Buddy-team live-fire was exactly what I expected … It was more nerve-wracking with live rounds.”

FORT KNOX, Ky. — 6th Regiment Advanced Camp cadets practice for combat readiness July 3, 2019, at Cadet Summer Training during a buddy-team live-fire training event at Fort Knox, Ky. Soldiers with 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, supported the cadets by serving as cadre. (Photo by Mary Kate Griffin)

Although firing live weapons is not novel for most cadets, the buddy team live-fire experience was unique.

“I’ve fired a lot of weapons in my life but this is a really cool experience,” said Cadet Samuel Johnson, attending Central State University. “It’s different because it’s a combat (training), and you’re firing and maneuvering with a battle buddy.”

Buddy-team live-fire training is the culmination of react-to-contact drills and individual movement techniques that cadets are taught at their respective universities. According to Cadet Tyler Hardy, attending Western Kentucky University, the training prepares cadets for the uncertainty of hostile environments.

“I never know when I am going to be in a combat situation where I will have to protect the people around me,” said Hardy. “I will be able to think back on my cadet training and what I need to do to keep my battle buddies and platoon safe. Since my Soldiers will have been through this, it’s important that I also experience this.”

By Sgt. James Geelen

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, left, acting senior commander, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, hands the brigade colors to Col. Steven E. Putthoff, incoming commander, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., during a change of command ceremony July 12, 2019, at Founder’s Field. Col. Geoffrey Kent, outgoing commander, 4th SB, is headed to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to serve as the Corps G4. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Families, friends and colleagues gathered July 12, 2019, to welcome the new 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, commander during a change of command ceremony at Founders Field.

Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, presided over the ceremony as Col. Geoffrey (Geoff) Kent relinquished command to Col. Steven E. Putthoff.

“This brigade has deployed for more missions in the last two years than any other unit on Fort Carson,” Ryan said. “Whether it’s deploying to Europe, Asia, a humanitarian mission to help after a hurricane, or sending Soldiers to help secure the border; the 4th (SB) always stands ready no matter what the mission or where it may take them. That’s a testament to the leadership that Geoff has provided.”

Kent served as the 4th SB commander for the past two years, having successfully led the brigade through a multitude of training missions, rotations to the Joint Readiness Training Center in Fort Polk, Louisiana, and several hurricane relief missions.

“I love this brigade,” Kent said. “I love the men and women that I’ve served with here. I walk away today with great pride in this group, and I can’t thank them enough for who they are, what they do and what they still may yet be called to do.”

Putthoff was ready to take command of the brigade, having spent the past two years working with 4th Infantry Division staff as the deputy chief of staff for logistics (G4).

FORT CARSON, Colo. — From left: Col. Geoffrey Kent, outgoing commander, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson; and Col. Steven E. Putthoff, incoming commander, 4th SB, honor the flag during a change of command ceremony July 12, 2019, at Founder’s Field. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

“As the division G4, I had the opportunity to work with the 4th (SB) in exercises and training,” Putthoff said. “This has provided me with insight into their capabilities and the expectations on how the sustainment brigade integrates into division operations.”

Ryan conveyed his confidence in both commanders’ ability to teach and lead.

“Geoff and Steven helped this career infantryman understand sustainment and logistics in the 4th ID,” Ryan said. “They helped me understand the lingo, helped me communicate our status to the higher headquarters, and they made it easy. It has been my privilege to work with you both.”

The Putthoff Family showed their excitement to continue serving at Fort Carson.

“I am honored to get the opportunity to continue to serve in the 4th Inf. Div. and have the chance to serve alongside the Soldiers of the 4th (SB),” Putthoff said. “Fort Carson is a fantastic post to live and train at with a supportive community, and I look forward to the next two years.”

Kent is headed to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to serve as the I Corps G4.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presents the colors July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo at the Norris-Penrose Event Center. The mounted color guard, 4th Inf. Div. Band and Fort Carson leadership participated in the reception and parade to kickoff the rodeo. The weeklong event began with a parade in downtown Colorado Springs. (Photo by Amber Martin)

By Amber Martin

Garrison Public Affairs Office

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Lane Knickerbocker sits on a steer July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The 79th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo honored Fort Carson July 10, 2019, at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.

The rodeo was a weeklong event that began with a parade in downtown Colorado Springs. The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard, 4th Inf. Div. Band and Fort Carson leadership participated in the reception and parade to kickoff the rodeo.

“I think this is really important because … it highlights the importance of the relationship between Fort Carson and all the other military installations and the Colorado Springs greater community,” said Command Sgt. Maj. T.J. Holland, senior enlisted leader, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson.

The mounted color guard began the evening by presenting the colors in the middle of the 51,000-square-foot dirt arena on their horses Tank (Guardian), Trav (Traveler), Junior and Dalton. The mounted color guard presented the colors every night of the rodeo.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — A competitor tries to stay on his horse during the saddle bronc competition July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

“The thing that I enjoy most about the rodeo is the pride you feel being part of the mounted color guard and presenting that history and preserving the legacy,” said Sgt. Jordan Jaeger, mounted color guard. “(Presenting the colors) makes you proud to be an American. You kind of (swell) with pride.”

As the mounted color guard presented the colors, Staff Sgt. Katherine Bolcar, vocalist, 4th Inf. Div. Band, sang the national anthem from the balcony above the stadium to the thousands of attendees below.

Bolcar said, as an Army musician, it is incredibly important to do the national anthem justice. She said it is everyone’s song, and when people thank her, they are thanking her for the way the song makes them feel.

“Every time I sing the (national) anthem, it is a little bit terrifying and a little bit amazing. Partly, because it is such an important song to so many people,” said Bolcar.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Spc. Nathan Duffy, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows Katie Kreuger a Stryker armored vehicle July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

Rodeo attire that evening was both patriotic and western, including cowboy hats, cowboy boots, belt buckles and clothing consisting of red, white and blue to represent the American flag and show support for service members.

Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, thanked and acknowledged all service members and those serving in harm’s way, including Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, as well as Fort Carson Soldiers, the community and service members’ Families, for their support.

“I am extremely proud to be here tonight,” said Ryan. “Thank you for hosting us; thank you for taking care of all the Soldiers and Families that live out here in Fort Carson and Colorado Springs.”

Fort Carson service members and the Colorado Springs community shared an eventful evening filled with roping, wrangling and riding. Competitors included the top talent in professional rodeo competing in seven standard events: bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping and barrel racing.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, gives the opening speech July 10, 2019. (Photo by Amber Martin)

Holland said he enjoyed the team roping event, and said the event showed the dynamic relationship between the rider and the horse to become one, as well as proves the team’s skill to synchronize and “hit a moving target that does not want to be wrestled to the ground.”

His description of the event demonstrates the parallels of being a Soldier and competing as a team in the rodeo.

“You can see, as a senior NCO, that teamwork is important, and knowing each other, supporting each other and not wanting to let each other down. It’s almost like our Army values and our ethos,” said Holland. “Never fail your buddy. I think that’s what I associate about it the most.”

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presents the colors July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Two competitors attempt to rope a calf during the team roping competition July 10, 2019. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Mia Sample rides a pony while her mother Pascale Sample walks alongside her July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — A competitor tries to stay on his horse during the saddle bronc competition July 10, 2019. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Patrons watch as two competitors chase after a calf during the team roping competition July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Two competitors chase after a calf during the team roping competition July 10, 2019, at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. (Photo by Amber Martin)

“There are good days and there are bad days … (but) do not allow a bad day (to) define who you are.”

— Retired Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright

By Sgt. Anthony Bryant

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

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Retired Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright speaks to Soldiers July 12, 2019, with 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, at Butts Army Airfield. (Photo by Sgt. Anthony Bryant)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The U.S. Army National Guard’s first female aviator to complete the Rotary Wing Aviator Course at Fort Rucker, Alabama, visited and shared her experiences July 12, 2019, with the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division.

Retired Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright has many titles. In 1978, she completed the course in Alabama; and in 1997 she became the first female maneuver brigade commander in the Army after taking command of the 28th Aviation Brigade, 28th Infantry Division (Mechanized) at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. In 2004, Wright was sworn in as Pennsylvania’s first female adjutant general.

“I had the privilege of meeting Jessica Wright, my senior mentor at the Senior Leader Seminar (SLS),” said Col. W. Scott Gallaway, commander, 4th CAB. “She’s an incredible leader with an incredible history and life experiences.”

Initially enlisting as a private in the Pennsylvania National Guard in 1975, she commissioned the same year as a second lieutenant through the Women’s Army Corps Orientation, Officer Candidate School at Fort McClellan, Alabama. Her

35-year military career culminated in being assigned adjutant general of Pennsylvania and commanding the Pennsylvania National Guard.

Accepting Gallaway’s invitation to speak, Wright talked with Fort Carson Soldiers about her own experiences.

“I don’t know if any of you have ever made a mistake, had a bad day, been unhappy, uneasy, anxious or wanted to quit, but all (of) those things — I’ve wanted to do in my life more than once,” she said. “There are good days and there are bad days … (but) do not allow a bad day (to) define who you are.”

Wright was the first woman to transition to piloting the CH-54 Tarhe, a twin-engine, heavy-lift helicopter with a 20,000-pound payload. She recalled a particularly bad day, one that helped her learn to overcome those bad days.

“I’m taking the check ride, (and) there’s champagne waiting in the hangar,” she said. “My husband is there with roses. There’s the press … I failed the ride.”

She said it was a long walk from the aircraft to the hangar, where her husband and the press were.

“The next day, I got up and I got in the aircraft again,” she said. “The roses were wilted; the champagne was hot (and) I passed the ride … do not let a bad day define who you are.”

Wright went on to mentor the Soldiers of the 4th CAB by comparing life to a juggling act of many balls to describe the work-life balance.

“The two (balls) that are crystal are your work and your Family,” she said. “The two that are crystal, you cannot drop. You can have it all, and I’ll use (myself) as an example. You can be a wife, a mother and a Soldier, but you can’t be 100 percent of (each of them) on the same day.”

When it comes to Family, Wright said not to bring work or troubles home.

Having raised her now 30-year-old son, who is currently deployed to Poland as an infantry officer alongside her husband, who was also an Army aviator and an infantry officer, Wright fondly remembers a bit of advice her young son gave her.

She said her son grounded her and spoke of a particularly bad day she had at work when her son was in second grade. When asked how her day went, Wright responded by saying her day could have gone better. Helping her put things in perspective, her son replied by saying, at least she didn’t have to sit in a plastic chair all day.

Wright advised those in attendance to have a sense of humor.

By Sgt. James Geelen

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Capt. Jerryl Randolph, left, commander, 115th Quartermaster Field Feeding Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, unfurls the company colors while Lt. Col. Michael Iannucilli, right, commander, 68th CSSB, 4th SB, during an activation ceremony July 15, 2019, at Pershing Field. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The activation ceremony is a simple event, but it’s rich with traditions and heritage. It defines a point in time to commemorate the beginning or continuation of a unit’s history or lineage.

The 115th Quartermaster Field Feeding Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, was officially activated during a ceremony July 15, 2019, at Pershing Field on Fort Carson. It will conduct daily operations at the James R. Wolf Ivy Warrior Restaurant. The brigades will continue to run the other Ivy Warrior Restaurants.

“What a great day for the unit and a great day for the Army,” said Lt. Col. Michael Iannucilli, commander, 68th CSSB, 4th SB. “I’ve been a part of many units that no longer exist, having deactivated or been redesignated, this is the first time I’ve been associated with a unit activation. I couldn’t be happier to be a part of it and for this unit in particular.”

Field feeding companies have been a part the Army in the past, but this is the first time one has been available in the modern era.

“The practical goodness of this concept is that it brings together all of our cooks (92Gs) under a single chain of command,” Iannucilli said. “This is important all the time, but really shows in garrison. In the past, 92Gs were being directed by nine separate chains of command with nine distinct sets of priorities with expectations to perform in harmony in an Ivy (Warrior) Restaurant. Now there is one chain of command, one standard, one set of priorities and one shared vision.”

Activating the company involved taking over 170 culinary specialists along with their field feeding equipment from nine separate units across the division. Their mission is to support Fort Carson by producing quality meals for its Soldiers.

“The (Soldiers) are hitting the ground running by already having provided over 20,000 meals in the field here at Fort Carson,” said Capt. Jerryl Randolph, the commander of 115th Quartermaster Field Feeding Company. “Plus, they have served 42,000 meals at cadet summer training in Fort Knox, Kentucky, and we have Soldiers forward deployed supporting units as well.”

Their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed.

“Leaders and Soldiers of the 115th, you’ve demonstrated remarkable maturity, discipline and commitment to each other and to the unit that has resulted in all the success you’ve found,” Iannucilli said. “I can’t wait to see where you go in the future, and I have no doubt that your commitment will result in the 115th Quartermaster Company being the best field feeding company in the Army.”

If the 115th QM Field Feeding Company ever deploys, it will deploy in teams, and the remaining Soldiers will continue to run the James R. Wolf Ivy Warrior Restaurant.

“We provided all modes of transportation support, it didn’t matter how the equipment moved, whether by rail, highway, sea or air, our Soldiers were involved.”

— Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Blim

By Sgt. James Geelen

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Capt. David W. Perkins, left, company commander, and Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Blim, right, detachment first sergeant, leadership for 573rd Movement Control Team, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, remove the cover from the company colors, during a welcome home ceremony July 16, 2019, at the brigade headquarters. Removing the cover signals the end of the company’s deployment and its return home. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers with 573rd Movement Control Team, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, returned home July 16, 2019. They were welcomed with a ceremony at the brigade headquarters where Family, friends and Soldiers gathered to celebrate their return.

The MCT deployed in November to western Poland in support of Atlantic Resolve for U.S. European Command to provide support to the 330th Movement Control Battalion, 82nd Sustainment Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

“We provided all modes of transportation support,” said Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Blim, detachment first sergeant, 573rd MCT, 4th STB, 4th SB. “It didn’t matter how the equipment moved, whether by rail, highway, sea or air, our Soldiers were involved.”

The Soldiers were an integral part of the mission and played a key role in operations.

“They were the gateway for everything coming into and out of the area of operations for Atlantic Resolve,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Paul J. Ellis, battalion sergeant major, 330th MCB, 82nd SB, 82nd Airborne Div. “The 573rd Soldiers moved thousands of pieces of equipment, provided custom clearances for everything and anyone moving into and out of western Europe, and handled everyone very professionally.”

Many Soldiers experienced this mission as their first deployment, and after the nine-month deployment are happy to see familiar faces.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — 1st Lt. Caleb Cordero, operations officer, 573rd Movement Control Team, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, embraces his 5-month old daughter and his wife, Michele, at a welcome home ceremony July 16, 2019, at the 4th Sustainment Brigade’s headquarters. The 573rd MCT returned home from a nine-month deployment to western Poland in support of Atlantic Resolve. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

“I’m happy to be able to say that I’m home,” said Pfc. Ivan Martinez, diplomatic clearance inspector, 573rd MCT, 4th STB, 4th SB. “I’m looking forward to spending time with my wife, Itzaira, and hanging out with friends.”

Family and friends were just as excited for the Soldiers’ return.

“I’m very excited to see Caleb,” said Michele Cordero, wife of 1st Lt. Caleb Cordero, operations officer, 573rd MCT, 4th STB, 4th SB. “We just had our daughter; she’s 5 months old. So he’ll get to spend time with her now.”

The unit’s hard work and dedication to the mission was noticed by leadership, Ellis said.

“573rd MCT, a job well done by a team of profes­sionals,” Ellis said. “The ‘Heart of the Dragon Battalion’ has been successful because of the MCT’s drive and determination of getting after the Army’s business. The commander and I appreciate all you have done.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, greets his wife and daughter at a welcome home ceremony July 16, 2019, at the 4th Sustainment Brigade’s headquarters. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — Signal Soldiers from 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, set up a quick erect antenna mast July 10, 2019, as part of a radio retransmission training validation event outside Camp Buehring, Kuwait. (Photo by Sgt. Liane Hatch)

By Sgt. Liane Hatch

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

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — U.S. Soldiers from the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and Kuwait Land Forces (KLF) soldiers worked together on radio retransmission (RETRANS) over the course of three weeks, further developing their signal skill sets and building upon an ongoing U.S.-Kuwaiti partnership.

Using a crawl, walk, run model, three RETRANS teams from Charlie Company, 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd ABCT, spent the latter part of June and the first half of July preparing for “Brigade Signal Stakes,” a final validating event, which took place July 10-12, 2019. Each team tested separately and demonstrated expertise on required tasks, including security operations, camouflage and concealment, call for fire and established the Quick Erect Antenna Mast (QEAM) that enabled radio frequency modulation.

Radio retransmission allowed for communication between radios that are too far apart to communicate directly, said 2nd Lt. Kaylin Armstrong, RETRANS platoon leader, 3rd ABCT.

“RETRANS teams enable communication across a greater distance on the battlefield,” she said. “It’s crucial for ensuring we can talk to each other and achieve mission success.”

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — Kuwait Land Forces soldiers observe as U.S. Soldiers from 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, perform radio retransmission training outside of Camp Buehring, Kuwait, July 10, 2019.

Throughout the buildup training, approximately 10 Soldiers from the Kuwait Land Forces joined the RETRANS Soldiers to observe and participate, and they came to watch the RETRANS teams in action July 10 during the validation event in the Al-Jahra desert.

“We were eager to participate in this training, and we appreciated the invitation from our U.S. partners,” said Lt. Col. Abdul Aziz Al-Osaimi, a signal officer, KLF. “There is value in training together — first, to give us experience so that we can understand each other, so that when there are training events and operations in the future, we can support each other and configure our comms.”

While the technology that each use is different, Al-Osaimi said the training and operational procedures were similar and were familiar to his troops, who appreciated the opportunity to learn more about RETRANS operations from reconnaissance and site selection to standards and discipline.

The U.S. Soldiers also benefitted from the training, which required them to combine basic Soldier skills with the communications expertise expected as part of their occupational specialty.

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — Leaders from the 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, left, discuss ongoing radio retransmission (RETRANS) training July 10, 2019, with Kuwait Land Forces Lt. Col. Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi outside of Camp Buehring, Kuwait, as a 588th RETRANS team establishes completes a training validation event. (Photo by Sgt. Liane Hatch)

Army Pvt. Jonathon Bryant, a radio maintainer operator, 3rd ABCT, who arrived from Advanced Individual Training in March, said the stakes training gave him the hands-on experience he needed in order to perform his job. He also said the training took him from theoretical understanding of basic principles to practical application and gave him greater confidence in his individual level skills.

“This was my first time getting to do my job in a tactical setting and scenario,” he said. “We spent a lot of time in the classroom learning the basic principles and fundamentals, followed by a more hands-on approach, and then the validation. That was big for me because when I got to the unit, I didn’t even know what a QEAM was; we trained on a different system in (Advanced Individual Training), so this has all been new to me.”

After the three 588th RETRANS teams validated their own skills, the company planned further training throughout July and into August in order to validate six RETRANS teams from each of the battalions in the brigade.

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — A signal Soldier with 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, works to install a quick erect antenna mast July 10, 2019, during a radio retransmission training validation event outside of Camp Buehring, Kuwait. (Photo by Sgt. Liane Hatch)

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait — U.S. Soldiers from the 588th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, set up a quick erect antenna mast July 10, 2019, as part of radio retransmission training outside of Camp Buehring, Kuwait. (Photo by Sgt. Liane Hatch)

By Daniel Pierce

Special to the Mountaineer

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Pfc. Austin Wisyanski, 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, carries his platoon guidon July 19, 2019, during the Manchu Mile, a 25-mile march to honor Soldiers who fought the Chinese Boxer Rebellion by marching to the Battle of Tientsin in 1900. (Photo by Daniel Pierce)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Carrying 35 pounds and their rifles, Soldiers participated in the semiannual 25-mile commemoration march known as the Manchu Mile, which emphasizes brotherhood, unity, and their ability to work together, from July 18, 2019, to the morning of July 19, 2019. The 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and 1st Space Brigade Soldiers began and ended their march at the regiment’s motor pool.

“Those Soldiers were definitely thinking that they couldn’t make it. They just put their heart into it and had to continue the mission, so I have respect for those guys,” said Sgt. Logan Lovelace, an infantryman with 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Reg., 1st SBCT.

Undertaken semiannually, the Manchu Mile honors the regiment’s storied involvement in the Chinese Boxer Rebellion.

The “Boxers,” according to the U.S. Army Center of Military History, were fanatics who wished to eradicate foreign influence from China. In the year 1900, the uprising overtook parts of China, with the intent of eradicating the spread of Western and Japanese influence. Soldiers of 9th Inf. Reg. were dispatched to help subdue the rebellion. Subsequently, they marched 85 miles from Taku Bar to the city walls of Tientsin, China.

During their battle at Tientsin, the regiment successfully rescued besieged foreign diplomats and missionaries and earned the title of “Manchus” — reserved for the finest Chinese warriors.

For the past 119 years, service members have continued to honor the Soldiers of the 9th Infantry Regiment who marched to the Battle of Tientsin.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers with 4th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, continue the 25-mile ruck march, Manchu Mile July 18, 2019. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

“They did something incredible by marching 85 miles straight into combat,” said 1st Lt. Matthew Altamirano, platoon leader with 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Reg., 1st SBCT.

Col. Emerson H. Liscum, commander of the original march and the attack on the walls of Tientsin, was shot by a Chinese sniper. Mortally wounded, Liscum shouted out his final words “keep up the fire,” which became the official motto of the 9th Inf. Reg.

This military endurance test offers no reward for finishing first, as the objective is for every Soldier to finish with the support they need from their brothers and sisters beside them.

“I think it’s good for building camaraderie within the battalion, because everybody is doing it together and there is a lot of support at the end when you finish,” said Altamirano.

Marching 25 miles through the night is no easy task, especially for those who bear the responsibility of carrying their representative guidon.

“It was a lot of fun, just long, but I had a good time,” said Pfc. Austin Wisyanski, a scout with 4th Bn., 9th Inf. Reg., 1st SBCT, who participated as the guidon bearer for his platoon.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers with 4th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, continue the 25-mile ruck march, Manchu Mile July 18, 2019. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

Soldiers who completed the march received a belt buckle with “Keep Up the Fire” inscribed, which can be worn with standard uniforms.

For many Soldiers it was their first time attempting the march.

“I’m going to walk, and walk, and keep walking until it works,” said Pvt. Nicholas Lauerbach, who attempted the walk for the first time.

With the constant sound of boots hitting the ground, dust covering their faces and darkness as their guide, the Soldiers marched in part to honor the Soldiers of the original 9th Inf. Reg. who fought the Chinese Boxer Rebellion.

“This is my last hurrah, and I want to spend it with the Soldiers before I start retirement,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Dennis Lindsey, 1st Space Brigade, who recently received his retirement orders.

The Manchu Mile is not only an important tribute to the unit’s history, but also an important training tool as well. A tool that enhances confidence while reminding each participant of the mental and physical fortitude required.

“I’m relieved. I’m just ready to drop this pack, and drop my gear,” said Lindsey. “The last five miles seemed like 50 miles.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, approach the finish line together in the morning July 19, 2019, after the 25-mile march that lasted through the night. (Photo by Daniel Pierce)

By Maj. Richard Barker

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

FORT POLK, La. — Maj. Don Kim, right, operations officer, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, listens to advice from Col. Scott Knight, commander, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during a combined arms rehearsal at the brigade’s leadership training program, July 23, 2019, in Fort Polk, La. During the combined arms rehearsal, lead planners demonstrated their unit or staff section’s involvement in an operation in relation to the rest of the team. (Photo by Maj. Richard Barker)

FORT POLK, La. — More than 250 leaders and staff from 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team “Warhorse,” 4th Infantry Division, attended a leadership training program (LTP) recently at Fort Polk, Louisiana, where they learned to coordinate as teams through the military decision-making process (MDMP) in order to produce a brigade combat operations order, a document that provides guidance to subordinate units on how to conduct a mission.

With the help of LTP coaches, all retired military with previous experience in key brigade leadership positions, the brigade produced a 700-page order that coordinates the movement and maneuver of more than 4,500 Soldiers and 3,000 pieces of equipment across multiple days in a simulated attack against an ever-changing enemy on an area about the size of Rhode Island.

In order to successfully produce and complete the order, leaders went through steps which included a combined arms rehearsal where lead planners demonstrated their section’s involvement in relation to the rest of the team.

“Most brigade staffs are formed, developed and dispersed within a three-year time period,” said Bo Balcavage, the brigade operations coach for the LTP. “As a result, what LTP does is accelerate the brigade’s understanding and execution of MDMP during the forming stage of the staff.”

FORT POLK, La. — Lt. Col. Aaron Thomas, left, commander, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, describes the fires scheme of maneuver during a combined arms rehearsal at the brigade’s leadership training program July 23, 2019, at Fort Polk, La. During the combined arms rehearsal, battalion commanders stood on a giant sand table to represent where their unit would be located during each phase of the operation. (Photo by Maj. Richard Barker)

Primary brigade staff officers and senior NCOs along with battalion command teams attended the training. The training program allowed leaders who are new to the brigade to conduct planning in their respective roles.

As the fire support officer for 2nd IBCT, Maj. Jaime Sanjuan found the LTP helpful. Sanjuan is responsible for planning and coordinating all forms of indirect fire support for maneuver operations and advising the commander on how to effectively use fire support assets assigned to them.

“This training provided an opportunity to take what I recently learned in school and apply it in a real unit with the other staff I will be working with for the next few years,” said Sanjuan, who arrived to the brigade in early July 2019. “LTP provides us an opportunity to train in an environment free of daily distractions. I feel the uninterrupted environment was beneficial and allowed us to focus on learning the processes.”

The training is an initial step for the brigade, which is a part of a series of combat training exercises that will culminate with the brigade returning to Fort Polk to train at the Joint Readiness Training Center in November.

FORT POLK, La. — Leaders and staff of 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct a combined arms rehearsal on a giant “sand table” during the brigade’s leadership training program (LTP) at Fort Polk, La., July 23, 2019. The LTP provided leaders with the tools and resources to learn to coordinate as teams through the military decision-making process in order to produce a brigade combat operations order. (Photo by Maj. Richard Barker)

“The exercise placed a lot of stress on the staff, which helped us grow mentally through focused coaching and realize the larger picture of the planning process,” said Sanjuan. “Overcoming the stressful environment here as a staff (member) made me realize the importance of time during planning. After this training, I feel our (team) is more effective and conscious of time while synchronizing efforts and integrating resources.”

The demonstration takes place inside a large sandbox or sand table, which is a giant, meticulously-crafted map that represents the location of the operation.

“The Warhorse Brigade has impressed us as a learning organization,” said Balcavage. “We witnessed the staff take advantage of the tools and resources we provided, which … is a sign of a professional unit.”

With new planning skills in hand, the brigade is looking ahead to their field training exercises planned at Fort Carson in upcoming months.

By Sgt. Daphney Black

14th Public Affairs Detachment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, passes the brigade’s colors July 26, 2019, to Col. Scott Myers, incoming commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., during a change of command ceremony at Founders Field. (Photo by Sgt. Daphney Black)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — “If there is any unit on Fort Carson that represents how busy the Army is, it is the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade,” said Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Ryan, acting senior commander, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson.

On July 26, 2018, the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade “Ivy Eagles,” 4th Inf. Div., deployed to Europe, reinforcing our support to the NATO allies as part of Atlantic Resolve.

Exactly one year to the day from their deployment the 4th CAB held a change of command ceremony July 26, 2019, where Col. Scott Myers, incoming commander, took command of the brigade from Col. Scott Gallaway, outgoing commander, on Founders Field.

The act of passing the colors is symbolic of the passing of the command authority. It is one of the oldest military traditions of the profession of arms.

During the ceremonial passing of the brigade’s colors, Command Sgt. Maj. James Etheridge, senior enlisted leader, 4th CAB, presented the colors to Gallaway, who then presented them to the senior commander, Ryan, signifying his relinquishing of command. Ryan presented the colors to Myers, thereby passing the responsibility and authority of command to him. The new commander passed the colors back to Etheridge, who is the custodian of the colors.

“The Army is all about people, and changes of command truly highlight the impact that people and leadership have on organizations and units,” said Ryan. “As Scott Gallaway is about to tell you and Scott Myers will tell you two years from now, nothing they achieve is possible without the support from their immediate Families and their extended Families.”

Within two years of command, Galloway led the brigade to achieve many accomplishments. With him at the helm, the brigade became the first rotational aviation brigade to execute gunnery training in Greece. Additionally, the Soldiers were instrumental in fighting wildfires on Fort Carson and surrounding areas.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Col. Scott Gallaway, the outgoing commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, speaks during a change of command ceremony at Founders Field, Fort Carson Colorado, July 26, 2019. The ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility from one commanding or flag officer to another. (Photo by Sgt. Daphney Black)

During the ceremony, Ryan praised Gallaway for a successful command.

“Scott Gallaway is a warrior scholar if there ever was one,” said Ryan. “And he deserves the credit for where the 4th CAB has been, what they’ve achieved, and where they’re headed. Scott, congratulations on an incredibly successful command, one where I know you’ve invested great effort — an effort you’ll never forget.”

Ryan went on to recognize Myers for his achievements.

“Scott Myers is a fantastic officer, who deployed with the division headquarters to Afghanistan, who won the trust and respect of Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson,” Ryan said. “I know he is ready to lead the Ivy Eagles to success.”

Gallaway expressed how appreciative he was to serve with all the Soldiers and Families of the brigade.

“Thank you for your hard work and dedication,” he said. “Thanks to your Families for their extraordinary sacrifices. I am so proud of all of you. I know you are in great hands with Scott Myers, Command Sgt. Maj. Etheridge, and Chief Warrant Officer 5 Mike Corsaro. This is truly the dream team, and I look forward to the days ahead. I also know that you will continue to ensure there is no greater ally and no worse foe than the mighty Ivy Eagles.”

Additionally, Gallaway extended his thanks to his family, especially his wife and two sons, Jack and Connor, for their sacrifices and unwavering support.

“To my wife, Laura, thank you for all you have done for our Families,” said Gallaway. “You are absolutely the best, most selfless person I know … I am most excited about the opportunity to write another chapter together in the book of life.”

Myers is a native of Saratoga Springs, New York, and received his commission from the U.S. Military Academy in 1996 in the aviation branch.

Over the past 23 years, he has served in several tactical and operational assignments including, troop executive officer, senior operations officer and corps deputy chief of operations, and most recently the director of combined joint operations center at the Resolute Support headquarters in Afghanistan.

“I extend a sincere thanks to Maj. Gen. George for this opportunity to serve with and lead these phenomenal Soldiers to our front,” said Myers. “Angela and I are deeply grateful and excited for the privilege of continuing to serve with the Ivy Division and the Ivy Eagles Brigade, and alongside some of the best Soldiers and Families in our Army.”

By Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon

14th Public Affairs Detachment

FORT CARSON, Colo. —Veterans and Families of the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division receive instruction on modern weapons during the 12th AD’s 73rd annual reunion to Fort Carson July 25, 2019. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — World War II veterans and their Families from the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division toured Fort Carson July 25, 2019, as part of their 73rd consecutive annual reunion.

“Everybody has a different story when they get to combat,” said William Georgov, a veteran who served as rifleman and a machine gunner with the 12th AD during the war. “The day I got banged up, I had volunteered to lead the squad. It was a new town. I’m guessing I was out 100 yards in the open. Our squad leader was very nice; every time we would come to a different town, he would select a different point man. I was the point man going into Speyer in Germany. I got halfway across the field. Next thing I remember I was waking up on the ground, and I heard someone shouting ‘medic, medic!’ … Then I realized we got hit. I spent a couple of weeks in the hospital and then I got back in my unit.”

But Georgov said the most impactful thing he took with him from the war was the bond he forged with his fellow Soldiers.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Wes Ferguson, a World War II veteran who served with the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division, visits the 4th Infantry Division Museum July 25, 2019, at Fort Carson during 12AD’s 73rd annual reunion. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

“When things got rough, (the) guys would stay together,” he said. “We were all different, but we were almost like brothers. I always felt thankful for what happened. It could have been way worse.”

Georgov is one of the 97 remaining survivors of the Hellcat division, many of whom have been meeting every year for nearly three quarters of a century.

Seventeen 12th AD veterans were present for the tour, as well as five generations of Family members. The tour encompassed visits to the 4th Infantry Division Museum and the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team motor pool, where Soldiers from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st SBCT, 4th Inf. Div., gave instruction on modern weapons and equipment, additionally allowing the veterans and their Families to look inside a Stryker combat vehicle.

The 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard joined the 12th AD during the weeklong reunion, where they presented the 12th AD colors at a memorial service held for the fallen. The Soldiers also honored missing and fallen troops during dinner ceremonies.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Bopp, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows Wes Ferguson a squad automatic rifle July 25, 2019, during his visit to Fort Carson. Ferguson is a World War II veteran who served with the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division, a division that helped liberate prisoners from Nazi concentration camps and other sites of incarceration. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

The division, originally based out of Abilene, Texas, was active from 1942 to 1945 and campaigned in Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe for a total of 102 days of combat during the height of World War II.

The Hellcat Division earned two more nicknames during the war. They were known by the Germans as the “Suicide” division for their fierce performance during Operation Nordwind in France, where, although being outnumbered and facing superior tanks, they held their ground and drove the Germans back. They were additionally known as the “Mystery” division, when Gen. George S. Patton recruited the division, ordering all tanks to be painted, as well as the removal of all identifying unit insignia, disguising the fact that Patton had an additional tank division under his command.

The 12th AD colors fly proudly at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C., where it is among the divisions honored and recognized for taking part in the liberation of prisoners from Nazi concentration camps and other sites of incarceration.

The 12th AD is a Family, and that’s what has been driving everyone to meet every year, said Corban Heinis, reunion chairman for the 73rd reunion, whose grandfather served in the 12th AD.

“Everyone loved it,” Heinis said. “They loved seeing the new equipment. They loved meeting the Soldiers and their overall experience was exceptional. I’m thankful for all the Soldiers involved and for their hospitality.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Capt. James Frederick, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, demonstrates modern weapons to World War II veterans who served with the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division and their families July 25, 2019. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Guido Borella, a World War II veteran who served with the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division, visits the 4th Infantry Division Museum July 25, 2019, at Fort Carson during the 12th AD’s 73rd annual reunion. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

FORT CARSON, Colo. —James Feezel, a World War II veteran who served with the 12th Armored “Hellcat” Division, visits the 4th Infantry Division Museum July 25, 2019, at Fort Carson during the 12th AD’s 73rd annual reunion. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens Rolon)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Sgt. Heather Perez, left, a personnel readiness sergeant with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, reviews a Soldier’s records at the brigade headquarters Aug. 5, 2019. Perez and her team were recently recognized by U.S. Army Forces Command as being the FORSCOM’s leading human resource section. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

By Sgt. James Geelen

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A human resource section provides a wide variety of administrative services to Soldiers within its respective units. Its duties include maintaining strength management, handling emergency contact data information and overseeing the processing of orders and Soldier records, in order to meet the goal of overall readiness.

The 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, human resource team was recently recog­nized for its hard work by U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM), headquartered at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, for having the highest level of readiness. FORSCOM conducts a monthly review to confirm personnel records, emergency data and life insurance forms are up to date for Soldiers.

“The 22nd Human Resources Company is the on-post, readiness team,” said Warrant Officer Donna M. Pegues, human resources technician, Head­quarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th SB. “We created a system where our Soldiers can go to the different brigades across the 4th Inf. Div., and they can update everything that affects the human resources metrics.”

The 22nd Human Resource Company, 4th STB, 4th SB, worked closely with the human resource personnel at its higher echelons to review records for over 200 Soldiers of 4th SB during the months of May 2019 and June 2019.

“To be recognized as the best, takes a lot of Soldiers working really, really hard as a team to accomplish the mission,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jenna M. Farmer, senior human resources sergeant, HHC, 4th STB, 4th SB. “We had to make sure that every level of the brigade was working in coordination and communi­cating their needs to the companies.”

Pegues and her team continue to work hand-in-hand with the units to ensure every Soldier receives the best service possible.

“It’s always good to have leadership notice that you’re working hard to exceed the standards,” said Pfc. Glen Wright, human resources technician, 22nd HRC, 4th STB, 4th SB. “We want the Soldiers to understand that we’re here to help them with all of their paperwork and awards.”

The 4th SB human resource teams know they won’t be able to rest on their laurels. They will have to continue to maintain a reputation for high productivity, while remaining thorough to ensure the least amount of errors possible.

“These (human resources) Soldiers are the reason we’re successful, they take their time with each Soldier and make sure that everything is done correctly,” Pegues said. “They really care about their jobs and want to do well as human resource professionals.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Two noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, flip a Zodiac boat, July 31, 2019 during noncommissioned officer professional development training at Fort Carson. The Soldiers also trained with cadets from U.S. Military Academy and the Reserve Officer Training Corps as part of their Cadet Troop Leader Training. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

By Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield

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

FORT CARSON, Colo. — U.S. Army Cadet Kyle Summa, from U.S. Military Academy, far left, paddles while on a Zodiac boat with noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during his Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) rotation, July 31, 2019, at Fort Carson, Colorado. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — For most college students, summer break means no homework, summer jobs, family trips, barbecues, beaches and overall fun. However for a particular group of college students, their summer break is filled with field training exercises, camouflage, Meals Ready-to-Eat, and lots and lots of ruck marches.

Units within the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, hosted that special group of college students for the summer. The students were cadets from the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) and the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), who are participating in Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT).

“CTLT is basically cadets coming to active-duty units for two or three weeks, depending on their schedule, to ideally take the place of a lieutenant, preferably a platoon leader,” said Capt. Jonathan C. Conway, commander of Charlie Battery, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd IBCT.

“Cadets shadow that platoon leader and take over convoy briefs, training plans, physical training, basically doing the job of a platoon leader/lieutenant before they commission.”

Conway, a former ROTC cadet from College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, had the opportunity to incorporate U.S. Military Academy cadets with his battery.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, carry a Zodiac boat toward water, July 31, 2019, during noncommissioned officer professional development training at Fort Carson. Soldiers trained on a Zodiac boat as part of the NCOPD training. Cadets with U.S. Military Academy and the Reserve Officer Training Corps also trained with the NCOs as part of Cadet Troop Leader Training. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

“I think (CTLT) gives cadets a better idea of what a lieutenant does and opens up prospective,” said Conway. “Our cadets arrived during an intensive training cycle, so they got to pull the string on a howitzer, work down on the gun line doing occupations and even work in the fire direction center learning how to compute fire missions.”

However for Conway, the biggest take away he hopes cadets get from the experience is how unique the Army is as an organization.

“You have some awesome days and some terrible days, but when teams are tight and work together they can make some pretty cool and amazing things happen,” said Conway. “The amount of responsibility given to officers at a young age is a lot, but with help from Soldiers and NCOs it’s possible.”

For Cadet Kyle Summa, U.S. Military Academy, the relationship between officers and noncommissioned officers was his biggest lesson learned during his time with C Battery.

“I think the most important thing I learned from CTLT was the importance of learning from and utilizing your NCOs,” he said. “When it came down to it, they were the subject matter experts on their guns and teams. Without them, the mission could not be accomplished.”

Summa, who wants to branch field artillery or aviation, added that he recommends others cadets to participate in CTLT.

“It was a great opportunity to meet and work with experienced Soldiers. I was constantly learning from them, while we all worked as a team to complete the challenges at hand,” he said. “The experience was great (physically) and mentally and it left me with valuable lessons to take as a leader moving forward.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A group of noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and cadets from U.S. Military Academy and the Reserve Officer Training Corps paddle while on a Zodiac boat, July 31, 2019, during noncommissioned officer professional development training and Cadet Troop Leader Training at Fort Carson. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct a ruck march, July 20, 2019, as part of a battery-wide training exercise on Fort Carson, Colorado. U.S. Army Cadet Kyle Summa, from U.S. Military Academy, is among the Soldiers as part of his Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) rotation at Fort Carson. (Photo by 1st Lt. Joe Christopherson)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and cadets from U.S. Military Academy and the Reserve Officer Training Corps carry a Zodiac boat toward water, July 31, 2019, during noncommissioned officer professional development and Cadet Troop Leader Training at Fort Carson. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, walk to a training area, July 31, 2019, during noncommissioned officer professional development training at Fort Carson. Soldiers, along with cadets from U.S. Military Academy and the Reserve Officer Training Corps trained on a Zodiac boat as part of the NCOPD and Cadet Troop Leader training. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — U.S. Army Cadet Kyle Summa, second from right, U.S. Military Academy, puts on a safety vest, July 31, 2019, during Zodiac boat training with noncommissioned officers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during his Cadet Troop Leader Training (CTLT) rotation at Fort Carson. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Neysa Canfield)

By Sgt. James Geelen

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

FORT CARSON, Colo. — U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Josh Winn, left, loadmaster with the 731st Airlift Squadron, 302nd Airlift Wing, ground guides Army Sgt. John Hampton, squad leader, 22nd Human Resource Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, July 31 as he backs a Humvee into a C-130 Hercules at Peterson Air Force Base. The company demonstrated its ability to move personnel and equipment anywhere the mission takes it within 72 hours. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 22nd Human Resource Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, executed a joint-partnered training event with the Air Force’s 621st Mobility Support Operations Squadron and the 731st Airlift Squadron of the 302nd Airlift Wing stationed at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs.

“For a human resources company to do an air mobility exercise is an unprecedented move,” said Capt. Kyle Garis, commander, 22nd HR, 4th STB, 4th SB, 4th Inf. Div. “This exercise demonstrates that we’re ready, willing and able to move our equipment on short notice. This also proves that the 22nd is on the right path and ready for future deployments.”

The 22nd HR Soldiers displayed their deployment readiness by loading vehicles and personnel onto a C-130 Hercules at Peterson Air Force Base and quickly unloading once they landed at Camp Red Devil on Fort Carson.

“I would say this is an uncommon occurrence; most companies prefer to do static loading training.” said Air Force Lt. Col. Bryan Huffman, mobility liaison officer, 621st Mobility Support Operations Squadron. “This is a great opportunity to actually fly away and really proves the point of full deployment requirements.”

The human resources company specializes in personnel accountability, with a contingent of Soldiers who operate postal services during deployment and a casualty liaison team.

“Once we get on ground, the human resources company specializes in its ability to open a theater gateway,” Garis said. “Once we have accountability of all personnel, we give that data to subordinate units, and we also put it on the deployed theater accountability system, which the Army uses to account for all personnel. So we are key in keeping Soldiers properly accounted for.”

For many of the Soldiers, this was their first time being on a C-130 and provided a unique training opportunity.

“This might be the first time a human resources company has ever done training like this,” said Sgt. Perry R. Hudicka, platoon sergeant, 22nd HR, 4th STB, 4th SB, 4th Inf. Div. “Usually the postal platoon will conduct this training, but we have Soldiers from all the teams out here. This lets the whole company display our ability to mobilize in a 72-hour window.”

The training exercise allowed the Soldiers of the 22nd HR to experience how much preparation and planning goes into moving their personnel and equipment.

“I want my Soldiers to know that it’s not always about what we do technically, but how we are part of the bigger picture,” Garis said. “They have a whole new understanding of all the preparation that’s required to do this relatively simple mission. This helps them to understand that it’s not just about us, and if they understand the bigger context, then they’ll be more effective at what they do.”

FORT CARSON, Colo. — U.S. Army Warrant Officer A. Starr Brinson, center, human resources technician, 22nd Human Resource Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, leads Soldiers from a C-130 Hercules July 31, 2019, at Camp Red Devil Training Area on Fort Carson. The Soldiers conducted a joint operation with Air Force units from Peterson Air Force Base to demonstrate 22nd HR’s ability to move personnel and equipment in a short time frame anywhere they are needed. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Caitlyn Gardner, loadmaster, from the 731st Airlift Squadron, 302nd Airlift Wing, directs a Humvee off a C-130 Hercules July 31, 2019, at Camp Red Devil Training Area on Fort Carson after a flight from Peterson Air Force Base. Soldiers from 22nd Human Resource Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, conducted the joint operation to prepare for future missions. (Photo by Sgt. James Geelen)

WILMINGTON, North Carolina — U.S. Army Spc. Amber Payne, center, a petroleum supply specialist, 59th Quartermaster Company, Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, powers through opposing players during the inaugural Women’s Rugby Championship in Wilmington, North Carolina. Payne and the All-Army Women’s Rugby went undefeated and won the gold medal. (Photo courtesy of Spc. Amber Payne)

By Sgt. James Geelen

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

WILMINGTON, North Carolina — U.S. Army Spc. Amber Payne, (3), a petroleum supply specialist, 59th Quartermaster Company, Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, tackles an Air Force player during the inaugural Women’s Rugby Championship in Wilmington, North Carolina. Payne and the All-Army Women’s Rugby went undefeated and won the gold medal. (Photo courtesy of Spc. Amber Payne)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Athletes from all over the United States travel to Colorado Springs every year to train at the high altitude and the Olympic Training Center.

For U.S. Army Spc. Amber Payne, a petroleum supply specialist, 59th Quartermaster Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, being stationed here has helped her with her rugby career. Payne was a starter at the All-Army Women’s Rugby Team, as a forward prop, that recently won a gold medal at the inaugural Women’s Rugby Championship in Wilmington, North Carolina.

“Being on this team took precedence over everything else, once I found out that my application was chosen,” Payne said. “Obviously I still had my Soldier duties and work to take care of, but my mind was rugby, rugby, rugby. I wanted to succeed and show my potential and be a part of something bigger than myself.”

Payne has been playing rugby since she was 14 years old, growing up in Bremerton, Washington.

“I had a three year hiatus from playing when I joined the Army,” Payne said. “I finally found a team to play on after I moved to Fort Carson. I’m trying to stay consistent with my training and being prepared to play whenever the opportunity arises.”

Payne’s hard work and dedication have been noticed by her leaders.

“She’s definitely a role model to the other Soldiers,” said 1st Sgt. Hector Rodriguezpabon, first sergeant, 59th QM, 68th CSSB, 4th SB, 4th Inf. Div. “She balanced her time between being a petroleum specialist and practicing rugby almost every day in preparation for the tournament. This puts her ahead of her peers for a leadership role.”

For the first-ranked Army, the experience left the team excited, but also aware of the work involved in getting to this point.

WILMINGTON, North Carolina — U.S. Army Spc. Amber Payne, (3), a petroleum supply specialist, 59th Quartermaster Company, Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, takes a team photo in June 2019, after being selected for the first All-Army Women’s Rugby Team at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Payne was selected as a starter for the gold medal winning team. (Photo courtesy of Spc. Amber Payne)

“It’s great, especially since this is our first-ever women’s rugby competition with Armed Forces Sports,” Payne said. “I trained hard and prepared myself the best way I knew. The coach told us her expectations, including conditioning. The team worked hard at Fort Bragg (North Carolina), doing two-a-days, yoga classes, and aqua-spin classes.”

The three-day tournament was fought among all five service branches.

“We scored 158 points over the course of those three days and only gave up 14 points,” Payne said. “Being a part of this team is a dream come true. I’ve learned so much as a player and a teammate from the women I was surrounded by. For such a short time they made a big impact on me.”

Payne has displayed that maturity since returning to Fort Carson.

“Payne has a lot of potential as a Soldier,” Rodriguezpabon said. “She got back from the tournament and was sent to Fort Knox (Kentucky), to support a mission and didn’t complain about it at all. The 59th QM is definitely happy and honored to have her in our formation. We’re looking forward to seeing her develop as a Soldier and as an athlete.”

By Staff Sgt. Scott J. Evans

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin Richardson, center, a military pay instructor assigned to Fort Knox, Ky., currently serving duty at DFAS in Indianapolis, conducts a review on pay procedures during Fort Carson MilPay Fundamentals Course at the Military Training Complex at Fort Carson. The class reviewed upcoming changes in the next few months for human resource personnel with the Integrated Personnel Pay System–Army. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Scott J. Evans)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — In the coming months, an updated Army online human resource system currently in development called the Integrated Personnel and Pay System –Army (IPPS-A), will come into full effect, requiring Army human resource specialists to assume military pay duties, which were previously handled by financial management specialists.

In preparation for this coming change, the 4th Infantry Division personnel section has developed a pilot program to train human resource specialists, both Soldiers and civilians, from various installations throughout the Colorado Springs area. The Fort Carson MilPay Fundamentals Course, which was taught by military pay instructors assigned to Fort Knox, Kentucky, who are currently on duty at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in Indianapolis, took place Aug. 12-15, 2019, at the Military Training Complex (MTC) at Fort Carson.

“The IPPS-A program is being designed to modernize the HR system by bringing these services into the modern world,” said Maj. Matthew K. McDaniel, chief of the 4th Inf. Div. Human Resources Operations Center (HROC). “Many of the systems currently in use have been around for a long time.”

The four-day course helped to ensure human resource specialists had a thorough understanding of their future responsibilities in order for them to gain knowledge and confidence in the system’s processes.

“We have to learn about coding, financial pay, audits and anything that has to do with finance; it’s now going to have to be done within the (Division personnel office),” said Sgt. DeJuan A. Means, human resources sergeant and HROC NCOIC, 4th Inf. Div. “We are looking to teach these students to be able to take that knowledge, process it so that when they leave, they will be able to train people within their units.”

With many attendees stationed outside of Fort Carson, such as at U.S. Northern Command, much forward planning had to be conducted by the Fort Carson HROC to make it effective for everyone involved.

“As part of the planning process for setting up this class, we had to consider there are students from elements who are not part of (the) Fort Carson computer network, so we had to make sure they had access to the tools that they would use in an operational environment,” McDaniel said.

Though this was the first course conducted on the subject, the course length did allow the instructors to cover a lot of the training that will make the students effective in their career fields in the future through both practical exercises and testing.

“There is a lot of information, and I believe that this is the foundation for HR professionals when it comes to the military pay portion,” said Sgt. 1st Class Radia A. Rogers, military pay instructor, U.S. Army Human Resource Command at Fort Knox, Kentucky, currently on duty at DFAS. “Just giving them the basics on what needs to happen when a Soldier comes in with a pay issue and how to resolve it, not just going off of knowledge but how to conduct research and giving them the tools to know how to conduct that research.”

The HROC is planning to have these classes conducted frequently, so more HR personnel from Active Army, Reserve and National Guard units will be able to get effective training, which they can bring back to their units at the battalion and company level.

“I spoke with the instructor team and asked if they could come again in February,” Means said. “So we just need to coordinate it and make it happen.”

By Spc. Rommel Forde

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

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — Candidates with 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, carry a tow bar to their next objective Aug. 8, 2019, during a 36-hour event held at the Air Force Academy. Soldiers completed multiple Soldier tasks while cold, wet, tired and hungry to earn their silver spurs in a cavalry unit rite of passage called a spur ride. The tradition of having to “earn your spurs” reaches back to the beginning of the American cavalry. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — Troops persevered through 36 hours of mental and physical training, as they participated in this year’s spur ride with the hopes of joining the “Order of the Spur,” a cavalry tradition within the U.S. Army.

The 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, recently completed the event, which took place at a training area at the U.S. Air Force Academy. It began with a 12-mile ruck march with more than 60 pounds of equipment and gear, and was immediately followed by some physically challenging obstacle courses.

In the 1930s, after the transition from mounted to mechanized platforms, the cavalry slowly began to lose the tradition of the spur, as it seemed outdated with the ever-changing Army. However, many of the old traditions were re-adopted during the Vietnam conflict.

“(The event is) a gantlet that incorporates cavalry history to ensure that no traditions would ever be left behind again,” said Lt. Col. David A. Fulton, commander, 2nd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Reg., 1st SBCT, who is also the senior spur holder.

Dating back to the late-middle ages, the military significance of the spur has long been a tradition amongst cavalrymen. Mounted warriors who had proven themselves on the battlefield were bestowed with a knighthood.

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. —Candidates with 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, pull a simulated casualty Aug. 8, 2019, during part of a 36-hour spur ride event held at the Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

“It’s a long tradition in cavalry organizations, and it’s great to finally do one, especially with so many junior enlisted Soldiers that I don’t get to meet with on a day-to-day basis,” said Maj. Daniel R. Bell, executive officer, 2nd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Reg., 1st SBCT. “It’s been tough. You definitely feel the physical aspect of it, but still have to have the mental acuity to answer any questions they ask about the history and cavalrymen tasks.”

The spur ride can vary in length from 36-72 hours; the candidates typically deal with harsh weather and little rest.

The event is designed to test leadership, teamwork and pure determination of each “trooper.”

“We are putting these guys through a lot, physically and mentally, but they’re pushing through it,” said Sgt. Michael A. Burke, Comanche Troop, 2nd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Reg., 1st SBCT. “As a spur holder it’s good to see how dedicated they are to completing this event and earning their Spurs.”

Participating in the spur ride isn’t something every trooper in a cavalry unit gets to do; Soldiers must first be nominated, and there are certain criteria and standards that must be met. For example, this year’s troopers must qualify “expert” on their M4 rifle, have scored over 240 on the Army Physical Fitness Test, and must be knowledgeable on cavalry tasks and able to memorize the cavalryman’s poem titled, “Fiddlers Green.”

“The tradition of being a cavalryman has been passed down from generation to generation,” said Spc. Jonathan Peete, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st SBCT. “It was a really tough event, especially with the cramping issues I had to deal with, along with trying to keep the motivation up on my team, but we pushed through and completed the event.”

Sixty-five Soldiers completed the spur ride and those who were able to complete the entire event were awarded their spurs and inducted into the 2nd Sqdn., 1st Cav. Reg. Order of the Spur. The induction symbolized their expertise as cavalrymen, mental and physical toughness, and was a testament to their readiness.

“The spur ride is a perfect combination of physical strength and mental fortitude,” Fulton said.

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. —Lt. Col. David A. Fulton, commander, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, presents Pfc. Ivan Chait with the Order of the Spur Aug. 9, 2019, during a ceremony at the Air Force Academy. Chait was one of 65 candidates who successfully completed the 36-hour grueling cavalry rite of passage. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. —A spur holder puts spurs on an awardee after successful completion of the 36-hour event Aug. 9, 2019, held at the Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — Lt. Col. David A. Fulton, commander, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, addresses Soldiers following a squadron Spur Ride Aug. 9, 2019, at the Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs. (Photo by Sgt. Micah Merrill)

“I was humbled by this great opportunity, I was here to give my best and to make my best better.”

— Maj. Ernest Severe

By Spc. Robert Vicens

14th Public Affairs Detachment

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Maj. Ernest Severe, center, company commander and MedEvac pilot, Charlie Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, helps his coach and racing partner, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, left, senior warrant officer and standardization pilot, 2nd GSAB, 4th Avn. Reg., 4th CAB, don his hydration vest while on a short reprieve between aid stations Saturday during the Leadville Trail 100 run. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

Three Soldiers with 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, participated in the Leadville Trail 100, an ultramarathon held on the outskirts of Leadville Aug. 17-18, 2019, “The Two-Mile High City.”

Signing up

“The night before the race, you can’t sleep,” said Maj. Ernest Severe, company commander and MedEvac pilot, Charlie Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB. “Your mind doesn’t turn off — knowing that you’re about to put in 30 hours on your feet and 100 miles.”

The distance wasn’t the only challenging aspect of the race. The course, which is also known as “The Race Across the Sky,” snakes its way through 50 miles of scenic mountain paths, narrow dirt trails and unforgiving climbs up to 12,600 feet up and down the zenith of Hope Pass — before requiring runners to turn around and do it again. Every year, the trail defeats over half the starters, who either fail to meet cut-off times at the designated checkpoints or find the strain on their body is too great.

“We’re about to run 100 miles,” shouted Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, senior warrant officer and standardization pilot, 2nd GSAB, 4th Avn. Reg., 4th CAB, moments before the start of the race.

Grinning, Smith pointed a finger at his fellow racing partner and friend, Severe, “And it’s all his fault!”

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, left, senior warrant officer and standardization pilot, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, hikes through a field en route to Hope Pass Aug. 17, 2019, the highest point in the Leadville Trail 100. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

Racing in the Leadville Trail 100 wasn’t always the goal for the two Soldiers. Originally, they had planned only to run a Leadville marathon. When Severe discovered the race was part of a series leading to the 100-mile race, he challenged Smith to participate.

Making it happen wasn’t easy. The Leadville Trail 100 has grown popular over the years since its inception in 1983, and the racer slots are limited. Ultimately the runners persevered and found a way to enter the race.

“I’m always looking for challenges,” Smith said. “I consider myself a talented aviator but I am always seeking improvement and making myself better.”

Both Smith and Severe believe it is in their nature to push themselves. They believe there is a correlation between success and people who challenge themselves personally and in the workplace.

Finding balance

“While I’m young, I challenge myself physically,” Severe said. “I still remember when two miles was a long distance. Then there was the Army Ten-Miler, then I did a marathon.”

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Maj. Ernest Severe, company commander and MedEvac pilot, Charlie Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, hikes along the river during the Leadville Trail 100 Run, Aug. 17, 2019, Colorado. “It’s in our nature to push ourselves,” Severe said. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

Smith and Severe find their work-life balance improves by getting away and running in the beautiful Colorado backyard. It makes them better in the important areas of their lives.

“I needed this time outside of work to decompress so my wife has the best husband and my Soldiers have the best commander,” Severe said.

It is a sentiment Smith echoes as well.

“I’m considered extremely successful by the people around me, but I look at myself as an average person,” Smith said. “I never got straight A’s, and I don’t feel I’m anything special. I look at people as equals and I want people to feel comfortable coming to me with their problems so I can help them.”

Being fully present at work, despite his many responsibilities, becomes easier with an avenue to channel his energy, Smith said.

“Getting away and running is very soothing,” he continued.

That said, endurance races are very time consuming and require the discipline one would expect from high-speed Soldiers.

Preparing for 100 miles

In order to complete 100 miles in under 30 hours at such a high elevation, both Soldiers prepared themselves physically and mentally. They developed nutrition strategies to make up for the 12,000 calories they expected to burn over the course of the race. Like good Soldiers, they trained like they fought, hiking Pike’s Peak regularly on weekends to become more accustomed to running in a higher elevation. They practiced night runs using the headlamps they would need on race day. Most importantly, they made sure they were always fulfilling their duties with Family and work, in order to keep the support of their home and work spheres.

Morning of the race

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Over 800 runners begin the Leadville Trail 100 Aug. 17, 2019. Each year, only about half who start the race are able to finish the 100-mile distance in the allotted 30 hours. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

“You’ve come from all over the world to run 100 miles on foot across the tallest, the toughest, the baddest mountains Colorado has to offer,” the race announcer’s voice echoed over the loudspeaker in the crisp pre-dawn air.

More than 800 runners eagerly waited at the start line, as well as the hundreds of friends, family and race crew that came out to support the racers in their painful 100-mile hour journey. In the end, less than 400 completed the journey in time.

“I was humbled by this great opportunity,” Severe said. “I was here to give my best and to make my best better.”

The shotgun blasted and hundreds of runners shot into the night in a tight cluster, headlamps like fireflies in the darkness. They stayed together for a few miles before everyone settled into similarly-paced groups.

Sometimes runners had company as they waded through the aspen trees and hiked the rocky roads. Other times there were long stretches of silence as the nearest participants jogged at their own pace, out of earshot.

Severe and Smith agreed to stay together as long as they could, but not to hold each other back. They also recruited the aid of 1st Lt. Frances Burghart, intelligence officer, Charlie Company, 2nd GSAB, 4th Avn. Reg., 4th CAB. Burghart agreed to act as pacer in case one of the racers fell behind.

Race must go on

Severe injured his ankle on Sugarloaf Pass early in the race. It slowed him down, but he pushed himself as long as he could. Having run 45 miles and hiking the last five miles on a bum ankle to the highest point of the race, only to be turned away minutes from his goal at the top of Hope Pass.

“There was no way I was going to stop unless they made me,” Severe said.

And when he could no longer participate, his role shifted from runner to Smith’s support team.

Smith plowed through the night, driving himself, borrowing one of Leadville’s mantras, taken from the city’s mining roots: “dig deep, don’t quit.”

Burghart jumped into the race for the last 12 miles, running alongside Smith for moral support and to keep the wearied runner on pace through the last leg.

LEADVILLE, Colo. — From left: 1st Lt. Frances Burghart, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, and Maj. Ernie Severe, with the 4th Infantry Division, celebrate Smith’s accomplishment of completing the Leadville Trail 100 run Aug. 17, 2019, in under 30 hours. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

Finish line

Together they reached the last mile, where Smith’s wife and others from his race crew joined him in walking across the finish line.

Smith completed the race with only 22 minutes to spare, earning the coveted silver buckle — only awarded to those brave and resilient souls who trekked 100 miles through the “Race Across the Sky” —within the allotted time of 30 hours.

“This is probably the most difficult physical exercise I have ever done in my entire life,” said Smith. “Don’t ask me if I’ll do it again. Wait until after I can walk.”

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, senior warrant officer and standardization pilot, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, pulls himself forward along the final mile stretch of the Leadville Trail 100 Run, while 1st Lt. Frances Burghart paces him Aug. 18, 2019. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

LEADVILLE, Colo. — The Leadville Trail 100 Run, also known as the “Race Across the Sky,” snakes its way through 50 miles of scenic mountain paths, narrow dirt trails and unforgiving climbs up to 12,600 feet. Every year, the trail defeats over half the starters, who either fail to meet cut-off times at the designated checkpoints or find the strain on their body is too great. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

LEADVILLE, Colo. — Chief Warrant Officer 4 Isaac Smith, center, senior warrant officer and standardization pilot, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, jogs down an incline just before reaching the Twin Lakes Aid Station, a checkpoint along the Leadville Trail 100 Aug. 19, 2019. Only about half of the 800 runners that began the race completed the 100-mile run in the allotted time of 30 hours. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

LEADVILLE, Colo. — The Leadville Trail 100 Run, also known as the “Race Across the Sky” snakes its way through 50 miles of scenic mountain paths, narrow dirt trails, and unforgiving climbs up to 12,600 feet. Every year, the trail defeats over half the starters, who either fail to meet cut-off times at the designated checkpoints or find the strain on their body is too great and must turn back. (Photo by Spc. Robert Vicens)

“I realized that a lot of people do not like running, but I love running. I see running as the activity I can do to keep my health, my focus and everything.”

— Sgt. Elias Chesire

By Sgt. Daphney Black

14th Public Affairs Detachment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — From left: Sgt. Elias Cherise, Sgt. Paul Katam and Capt. Bryce Livingston, all assigned to the 4th Infantry Division, were the top three finishers May 11, 2019, during the Fort Carson/Army Ten-Miler at Fort Carson, Colorado. The event served as the qualifier for the Army Ten-Miler team. (Photo by Sgt. Daphney Black)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — He maintains a steady 6-minute-mile pace for 18 miles — a pace slightly slower than what he ran on his last 10-miler. Today, he’s just going on a long run.

Logging an average of 90 miles a week, to say that Sgt. Elias Chesire has a great deal of endurance would be an understatement.

Chesire said, “I am not fast,” … which begs the question, what is his best time on the Army Physical Fitness Test 2-miler?

“I can run that in 8 (minutes) 54 (seconds),” said Chesire, a Soldier with 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division.

“On the Army scale, he is one of the best,” said Capt. Bryce Livingston, assistant coach for the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP) at Fort Carson.

Although he is not a member of the WCAP, Chesire has been training alongside their athletes.

WCAP is not so much about developing runners; it is more about taking already exceptional runners and training them for the Olympics.

At this rate, Chesire is just a couple of seconds shy of a chance to possibly compete in the Olympics.

Chesire hails from a pedestrian culture, where people travel to most places by foot, whether it be by running or walking. But even given his cultural background, he said he has to work hard to be as impressive of a runner as he is.

Chesire, a native of Eldoret, Kenya, began running about 10 years ago after he graduated from high school. At first, running was just something he would do in his spare time.

One does not become a good runner solely because of genes, nor does it happen because of the place of origin.

It takes training and perseverance.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Sgt. Elias Chesire with 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, performs running drills at an outdoor track July 20, 2019, in Colorado Springs. (Photo by Sgt. Daphney Black

“I’d get asked where I am from,” said Chesire. “Then they’d reply with, ‘yes, that is why you run so fast,’ I just smile, because there is no way you can change somebody’s mind.”

However, Livingston understands that so much more goes into running. He said, “It is training; it is nutrition.”

“Growing up, I did not take running seriously, because where I am from, education is a priority, so I focused on school,” Chesire said. “Then I graduated, and my focus shifted from school to running. I realized that a lot of people do not like running, but I love running. I see running as the activity I can do to keep my health, my focus and everything.”

Chesire said it took him two years of consistent training before he could compete in any event, and the process was not an easy one.

“Training is really hard,” said the 6-foot-2, 125-pound aircraft mechanic. “The first year especially because I was getting familiar with all kinds of training — speed run, hill run and long run.”

Once he started to grasp the whole running concept, he said he began to create goals and make plans. To him, running was not merely a hobby, but a way to a better future.

“I wanted to come to the U.S. on an athletic scholarship,” he said.

And he did. He became a student-athlete for Florida A&M University.

“I won three conference championships for the school,” said Cherise.

Having achieved his goal earning a college degree on an athletic scholarship, his next hurdle was being granted U.S. citizenship.

He obtained citizenship through his military service, while also being a part of an organization that supports, encourages and even rewards his love for running.

Chesire said his unit is very supportive and allows him to train with the WCAP athletes.

“He trains with us,” said Livingston. “His chain of command has been very kind in allowing him to take some opportunity to train, and I’m certain he pays it back at work. We are very fortunate to have him come and train with us occasionally.”

“I run with people who are faster than me,” said Chesire. “Sometimes, I get exhausted, but I push through the aches and pains. When you finish a race and you have done well it really makes you want to do another one.”

He recently ran the Fort Carson/Army Ten-Miler and qualified for the Army Ten-Miler team. He is in a pool of very fast athletes, but he is not the fastest.

Livingston said Chesire is a very talented runner and he is extremely excited to have him on board.

“I would like to see him get faster,” said Livingston. “That would be really, really great, but I can say that he will be a huge impact to represent Fort Carson at the Army Ten-Miler.”

Last year, Chesire finished 8th place overall. This year Chesire said he is hoping to bring home the title.

“I am just looking forward to running the Army Ten-Miler this year, and I want to run faster than last year,” he explained.

“He will be competing and finishing very well,” said Livingston. “I think he and WCAP members will be leading the fight to bring the winning cup again this year.”

Perseverance, determination, focus and rigor are some of the terms associated with running strategies, Chesire said. One needs to have the heart to go through the pains and the gains. It is not an easy process, and it takes more than words to be successful. The most important thing is training.

He doesn’t just say he wants to get faster; he puts in the work, the time and the commitment.

“I run more than 60 miles a week,” said Chesire. “I may skip a day to allow my body to recover if I am exhausted. But I never skip a week. It takes focus, determination and hard work to be where I am at today.”

By Staff Sgt. Scott J. Evans

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Col. Guillaume “Will” Beaurpere, incoming deputy commander, 4th Infantry Division, addresses the audience Aug. 22, 2019, during his welcoming ceremony held at Founders Field. Beaurpere served previously under 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), and said he is looking forward to the opportunity to serve with the division headquarters. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Scott J. Evans)

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The “Ivy” Division officially welcomed Col. Guillaume “Will” Beaurpere as the new deputy commander of the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, and bade farewell to Brig. Gens. Joseph A. Ryan and Kevin D. Admiral during a ceremony Aug. 22, 2019, at Founders Field.

“The sweet part about today is welcoming the Beaurpere Family,” said Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson. “Will and his Family are not strangers to Fort Carson. He spent a bunch of time in 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), and if you get the chance to look through a resume of somebody who is a seasoned leader, a combat leader, an educated leader — that’s Will Beaurpere.”

Beaurpere expressed his eagerness to begin working in his new role.

“This is one of the highlights of my career, and I am really looking forward to it,” Beaurpere said. “It’s an honor to be here.”

George praised the outgoing leaders and said he appreciated their professionalism and dedication to the 4th Inf. Div. and its Soldiers, both at Fort Carson as well as during the division headquarters’ recent deployment to Afghanistan.

“I’m going to miss you guys. We’ve been blessed to have you, and we’d like to have you back to Fort Carson in a couple of years, mainly because we love our Soldiers here and we want to have great leaders,” George said, addressing Admiral and Ryan. “Either one of you would be an incredible commanding general here at Fort Carson.”

George spoke about the deep respect he has for both Ryan and Admiral as quality performers and professionals during their time at the Mountain Post.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Brig. Gens. Kevin D. Admiral, right; and Joseph A. Ryan, center, receive the Legion of Merit award and are given engraved canisters as tokens of appreciation of their dedication to the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson during a welcome and farewell ceremony Aug. 22, 2019, held at Founders Field. The two leaders are taking assignments at Fort Benning, Ga. and Fort Bragg, N.C., respectively. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Scott J. Evans)

“I always had Kevin and Joe brief first because I knew these guys were going to set the example for every other (Tactical Command Post) and Task Force commander,” George said.

During his farewell address, Ryan recalled when George had personally reached out to him one day at Fort Myer, Virginia, asking him to take a leadership position with the 4th Inf. Div.

“That’s unique. Not everybody does that,” Ryan said. “I didn’t get asked by anybody else … and I came because it’s nice to be wanted. It also inspires great loyalty.”

Admiral, too, thanked the leaders of the division, as well as his Family during the ceremony.

“I want to thank my wife and daughter for their love and support in making sure everything was successful here with our Families, but also so I could do my job (in Afghanistan), while they were taking care of business back home,” Admiral said.

Beaurpere said he looks forward to working with every one of the brigade commanders and tenant units.

“Coming to the Mountain Post is really coming home,” he said.

Admiral will be heading to Fort Benning, Georgia, and Ryan is going to serve at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.