Franconia News 4 May 2012

Vol. No. IX, Issue 17

Serving the Franconia Military Community — Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt

Franconia News May 4, 2012

The

This week in the Franconia News … In USAG Ansbach: R.I.P.P.E.D. , pg. 8 www.ansbach.army.mil In USAG Schweinfurt: Memorial Service, pg. 19 www.schweinfurt.army.mil In USAG Bamberg: Soldier for a Day, pg. 21 www.bamberg.army.mil

Mass Casualty Exercise Keeps Everybody Trained

Story by Connie Summers Photos: Courtesy of 412th ASB ANSBACH, Germany – Thick smoke clouds were bellowing from opened win-dows and doors while injured Soldiers were “rescued” by Host Nation and U.S. Army firefighters after a mock explosion supposedly caused smoldering fire on the ground-floor of a barracks on Shipton Kaserne, here, recently. The smoke, effectively produced by ma-chines of U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach’s Fire Department, lent solid realism to the mass casualty scenario. With the cooperation by members of the USAG Ansbach Fire Department and Emergency Services, Katterbach, the MASCAL exercise was organized by Staff Sgt. Richard Yankee, Battalion safety NCO for 12th Combat Aviations Brigade’s 412th Aviation Support Battal-ion. “Our goal was to evaluate the 412th ASB’s Rear Detachment’s emergency action plan and to access our re-sponses,” Yanke said. Basis for the MASCAL exercise was a mock explosion resulting in mass injuries of Soldiers living in the barracks.

A moaning Soldier collapsed in a puddle of blood. The screams and cries for help by other in-jured Soldiers, still trapped in the building, added urgency to a complex scenario for the volun-teers of the Host Nation Fire Department from nearby Hen-nenbach, the Rapid Response Team and local Red Cross play-ers. Although knowing the call for help was part of 412th MASCAL exercise, it was “surprising” for Hennenbach’s volunteer fire-fighter to encounter “such realis-tic conditions”, said Fire Chief Armin Völkert. The exercise was conducted in real time. It revalidated the basics of “assessing the situation, deciding what and how to respond and the appropriate interven-tion” of firefighters, Völkert said. Whether it is an exercise or a real sce-nario, firefighters often touch their physi-cal limits, said Fire Prevention Inspector Rudolf Buchinger, of USAG Ansbach’s Fire Department. Especially, when cov-ered in protective gear that weighs easily 90 pounds or more, depending on the requirement and response to a rescue operation. “Testing our cooperation with the volun-teers from Hennenbach’s local Fire De-partment during this exercise was our priority”, said U.S. Army Garrison Ans-bach’s Fire Chief Stefan Groetschel. In all, about 30 volunteer firefighters, including a Rapid Response Team from the local Red Cross supported 412

th

ASB’s MASCAL training exercise.

http://www.schweinfurt.army.mil/

http://www.bamberg.army.mil/index.asp

2 May 4, 2012 The Franconia News

Col. Kelly J. Lawler, USAG Ansbach Commander

Bianca Sowders, Community Relations Officer/Editor

Public Affairs Office — 468-1600 or 0981-183-1600

The Franconia News is an authorized electronic newsletter for members of the Department of Defense.

Contents are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, or the Depart-

ment of the Army. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the USAG Ansbach PAO.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute

endorsement of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army. Everything advertised in this publi-

cation will be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex,

national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of

the purchaser, user, or patron.

By Douglas DeMaio, Bavaria Medical Department Activity Public Affairs VILSECK, Germany – Seven projects totaling about $85 million are expected to bolster medical and dental care at military treat-ment facilities in Bavaria. A new $37 million dental and primary care health clinic in Katter-bach, Germany, and a similar $34.7 million add on to the facility here are two military construction projects that will improve ser-vices and enhance amenities for beneficiaries in the Bavaria Medical Department Activity footprint. “I think the beneficiaries will appreciate the changes over the course of the next few years in these various clinics,” said Maj. Travis D. Pamenter, BMEDDAC’s acting Deputy Commander for Administration. “We are making a significant investment to im-prove quality of care.” Projects at both locations will boost primary care, behavioral health services, physical therapy, the pharmacies and other spe-cialty services. “These improvements coupled with the increase of providers will help facilitate bringing back patients to their local installations that in the recent past had received care in the community,” Pamenter said. The projects will increase the access to primary care, which are the bulk of the patient visits, he said. The projects will also help to centralize services and enhance convenience. “It’s a pretty good location for patients to reach conveniently as part of the Patient Centered Medical Home concept,” said Eric Wolff, BMEDDAC’s Facility Management Branch chief, about the facility in Katterbach with will transition to a new patient care model. The facility in Katterbach will be built between the housing area and the installation’s new Exchange and commissary, Wolff said. “We have not only invested structurally, but we’ve invested tech-nologically as well in order to constantly improve our healthcare delivery,” Pamenter said. New equipment will be added to the buildings, Pamenter said, who has served as the logistical chief for BMEDDAC for the past year. The new structures will have energy efficient qualities that allow natural daylight to illuminate the facilities’ workspace and reduce costs on heating and air conditioning. “We understand what it is like to sit in the waiting room for a pe-riod of time and while this may be unavoidable in all instances, we want the patient to be comfortable,” Pamenter said. “When you

get into these exam offices, what you are going to notice is there are temperature controlled improvements. You will also see im-proved aesthetics.” Vilseck’s dental clinic will have a $7.1 million interior restoration project this winter that will improve its Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning System to provide better temperature control throughout the year. Hohenfels clinic will complete a $3.2 million renovation project by July 1. The Hohenfels renovation installed a new roof, a sprinkler system and HVAC System. Illesheim Health Clinic recently completed a $4.9 million renova-tion project designed to improved services and the patient areas. Bamberg health and dental clinic received a renovation $184,000 improvement to its reception and waiting areas. “While it might be minor construction, in this case $184,000, it is trying to improve the overall patient quality and patient experience that our health care facilities have,” Pamenter said. “Some people may say those are the things that do not matter in patient care. That is not something we concur with. We want to project the pro-fessionalism and not an experience of the stark outdated system of care.” Three Schweinfurt Health Clinic improvements totaled less than $1.5 million for two renovation projects and a HVAC System in-stalled on the fourth floor, he said. The clinic added a minor surgi-cal room, so the staff can do some types of medical procedures under the scope of practice that is allowed. The construction project here is scheduled to begin this fall. The parking lot of the facility will be extended onto the tennis courts, which will be relocated near the library. The project in Katterbach is scheduled to being next spring and will take two years to complete.

Bavarian Health, Dental Clinics Bolster Services with

$85 Million in Upgrades

The Franconia News 3 May 4, 2012 Serving the Franconia Military Community — Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt

SAVE THE NUMBER: 0171 - 745 5382 As the weather turns warmer, more and more outdoor activities become a part of everyday life. As you are out and about, you may see things going on in your community. The Installation Management Command officials are asking every-one to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. Save the Joint Task Force TIP Line phone number: 0171 - 745 5382. For emergencies off post call 112. 112 is the European emergency number, reachable from fixed and mobile phones, free of charge, everywhere in the EU.

By National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

WASHINGTON – With unseasonably warm temperatures already

striking many areas around the country, the U.S. Department of

Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

(NHTSA) today announced its first-ever national campaign to pre-

vent child heatstroke deaths in cars, urging parents and caregivers

to think "Where's baby? Look before you lock." Heatstroke is

the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle related deaths for children

under the age of 14, with at least 33 fatalities reported in 2011

alone.

"This campaign is a call-to-action for parents and families, but also

for everyone in every community that cares about the safety of

children," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "It is

hope that the simple tips from this campaign will save lives and

help families avoid unnecessary heartache."

Data from the San Francisco State University Department of Geo-

sciences report 33 children died last year due to heatstroke –

medically termed "hyperthermia" – while there were at least 49

deaths in 2010. An unknown number of children are also injured

each year due to heatstroke in hot cars, suffering ailments includ-

ing permanent brain injury, blindness, and the loss of hearing,

among others. Often heatstroke deaths and injuries occur after a

child gets into an unlocked vehicle to play while unknown to the

parent. Other incidents can occur when a caregiver transporting a

child as part of a change in their daily routine inadvertently forgets

a sleeping infant in a rear-facing car seat in the back of the vehicle.

"Everything we know about this terrible danger to children indi-

cates heatstroke in hot cars can happen to any caregiver from any

walk of life – and the majority of these cases are accidental trage-

dies that can strike even the most loving and conscientious par-

ents," said NHTSA Administrator David Strickland. "We hope our

campaign not only helps caregivers avoid accidentally harming a

child but also clears up some of the misconceptions about the

causes of child heatstroke in cars."

NHTSA's "Where's baby? Look before you lock" campaign urges

parents and caregivers to take important precautions to prevent

inadvertent incidents from occurring.

Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle – even if the win-

dows are partially open or the engine is running and the air

conditioning is on

Make a habit of looking in the vehicle – front and back – be-

fore locking the door and walking away

Ask the childcare provider to call if the child does not show up

for care as expected

Do things that serve as a reminder a child is in the vehicle,

such as placing a purse or briefcase in the back seat to ensure

no child is accidently left in the vehicle, writing a note or using

a stuffed animal placed in the driver's view to indicate a child is

in the car seat

Teach children a vehicle is not a play area and store keys out

of a child's reach

In addition, NHTSA urges community members who see a child

alone in a hot vehicle to immediately call local emergency number.

If the child is in distress due to heat they should be removed from

the vehicle as quickly as possible and rapidly cooled.

Nationwide Ads Urge Parents, Caregivers to Think

Was ist los in Franken?

4 May 4, 2012

Asparagus Season is here

The asparagus season in the area has officially begun; in Franco-

nia alone about 250 asparagus farmers harvest the “white gold”

as it is also called. The white asparagus and later in the month the

green version is available at many supermarkets, vending booths

along the road or straight from your local farmer. The season

traditionally ends on 24 June, St. Johannis Day.

State Garden Show in Bamberg

Every year the Bavarian State Garden Show – Landesgarten-

schau - is located in a different city; this year it is Bamberg! The

town creates a spectacular park-like garden world that is open for

several months: opening day was April 26; visitors will be taken

through the planting seasons until October 7. All day tickets for

adults are 15 Euros, children 6 – 17 pay 3 Euros and children 5

and under enter for free. The Park & Ride Breitenau parking lot is

located at Zeppelinstraße 2 in Bamberg; a shuttle bus provides

transport to the entry gates. There is no parking available directly

at the site. Detailed information is available at

www.bamberg2012.de

New Orleans Music Festival in Wendelstein

Enjoy Southern style music like Jazz, Blues, Gospel, Brass Music,

Rhythm and Blues, Cajun, Zydeco, Rock 'n' Roll and Soul in Fran-

conia! The New Orleans Music Festival in Wendelstein takes

place April 27 – May 6. Detailed information can be found at

http://jazzfestival.wendelstein.de

Little Venice comes to Nürnberg

The annual Venetian Market in Nürnberg is scheduled for April 27

– May 6; experience Italian life style with Italian food, Venetian

masks and gondola rides on the Pegnitz River. More details are

available at www.venezianischermarkt.de

Tickets for Ansbach Open

Tickets for the popular Ansbach Open Air Concert on Sep 2 are

available now at the Tourist Office in the Stadthaus (Johann-

Sebastian-Bach-Platz 1, 0981-51 243). The concert will feature

the Australian Pink Floyd Show, the only cover band officially car-

rying Pink Floyd’s name, and Max Raabe & Palast Orchester.

Fun Runs in Ansbach and Herrieden

As every year, the cities of Ansbach and Herrieden host their an-

nual fun runs. The Ansbach City Lauf takes place on May 6 with

start and finish at the Brücken-Center; for information and regis-

tration contact www.ansbacher-citylauf.de

Two weeks later the town of Herrieden hosts the Herrieder

Stadtlauf and the Altmühl Half Marathon on May 20; information

and registration is available at www.stadtlauf-herrieden.de

Your local garrison fitness center will also be able to provide infor-

mation and explanation of the registration process.

International Kinderfest in Würzburg

Children and family are the main focus of the international Kinder-

fest in Würzburg on May 6 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. downtown.

Games, entertainment, music and dance take place on Oberer

and Unterer Markt, a children’s flee market can be found in the

courthouse atrium (Rathaus). For further information check

www.wuerzburg.de

Floriansfest in Herrieden

The volunteer fire brigade of Herrieden celebrates the annual

name fest of their patron saint St. Florian on May 6 with a big

party. The fest begins at 10 a.m. with “Frühschoppen,” an early

lunch with sausage and beer. Between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

the fire trucks offer free rides for the kids; the trucks can be looked

at all day long. Lunch will be served starting at 11 a.m., followed

by coffee and cake at 2 p.m. At 1 p.m. the fire brigade rally for the

children begins, followed by a show program at 3 p.m. The fest

takes place at the “Gerätehaus” (equipment building) in Industri-

estr. 11

Old timer tractors meet in Höchstadt

The 3rd annual meet for agricultural old timer vehicles takes place

in Höchstadt / Etzelskirchen (Ezzilostraße 1) on Sunday, May 6,

from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information go to www.kverlangen-hoechstadt.brk.de

Tow boat rides in Burgthann-Schwarzenbach

Burgthann offers tow boat rides along the old Ludwig-Donau-Main

-Kanal again; the tow boat, Treidelschiff in German, leaves

Schwarzenbach (part of Burgthann) at the restaurant "Zum

Ludwigskanal" on Sunday May 6 at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. and is

pulled up the canal for 2 kilometers by a horse. There the boat

turns around to its departing point; the ride is about 45 minutes

long and costs 3 Euros for adults and 1 Euro for children. These

rides are offered throughout the summer about once a month;

upcoming dates are June 6, July 1 and 15, August 8 and Sep-

tember 2. More information can also be found at

www.burgthann.de

The Franconia News

By Bianca Sowders

5 May 4, 2012 Serving the Franconia Military Community — Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt

Was ist los in Franken? Weissbierfest in Bayreuth

The Maisel brewery in Bayreuth is celebrating a traditional Weiss-

bierfest on May 10 – 13 on the brewery grounds. The program, all

admission free, includes live bands, sport events and lots of food

and drink; Saturday night’s highlight will be a concert with Roger

Chapman, Suzan Baker and Paul Young. For a complete program

go to www.maisel.com or www.bayreuth.de

Spring Fest in Ansbach

The annual Spring Fest in Ansbach begins on May 11 at the Fest-

platz near the Onoldia-Center (Nürnberger Strasse). The first keg

of beer will be tapped by the Lord Mayor at 7 p.m.; live bands play

every night until the fest finally closes on May 17.

Asparagus week in Nürnberg

The traditional asparagus week, scheduled May 11 – 20, is

hosted by the Handwerkerhof, located right across from Nürn-

berg’s main train station (behind the big tower). Daily opening

hours are 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; for more information go to

www.handwerkerhof.de or find them on Facebook at https://

www.facebook.com/HandwerkerhofNuernberg

Flea market in Nürnberg

Germany’s largest flea market, the Trempelmarkt in Nürnberg

takes place on May 11 & 12. Opening hours of this large variety

market are 4 p.m. to midnight on Friday and 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. on

Saturday. More than 4000 private and pro vendors offer anything

from antiques to junk treasures. Vending areas are mostly on and

around the Hauptmarkt downtown. Using public transportation is

recommended, since parking will be a problem.

Wine fest in Bamberg

The wine fest on Michaelsberg in Bamberg on 12 & 13 May gives

the wine growers of the area to show off their products to the

community. They will be serving their own wines, Franconian

snacks and Bamberg Bratwurst. For more information go to

www.weinfest-bamberg.de

Blue Night in Nürnberg

The "Blaue Nacht" in Nürnberg takes place on May 19; it is a night

filled with special events, artistic displays and, of course, blue

lights everywhere. For a detailed program check

www.blauenacht.nuernberg.de

http://www.handwerkerhof.de

https://www.facebook.com/HandwerkerhofNuernberg

https://www.facebook.com/HandwerkerhofNuernberg

http://www.weinfest-bamberg.de

http://www.blauenacht.nuernberg.de


US Army Garrison Ansbach FMWR Sports & Fitness Program

2012 Community Unit & Intramural Sports

Sports Events:

1. Unit Softball Games: 29 May 2012

2. Basketball Summer Slam: 22 May – 31 July at Katterbach & Storck PFC

3. Unit Flag Football Games: July 2012

4. Unit Basketball Games: November 2012

5. Community Soccer: 1 May – 30 October 2012

Community Fun Runs:

1. Run & Gun 5K Event: Sat 19 May at Urlas

1. 2nd Independence Day 5 & 10K Fun Run: Sat 30 Jun at Franken Kaserne

2. Back To School 2K & 5K Walk/Run: Sat 18 Aug at Katterbach Airfield

3. Howl Fest/Cancer Awareness/German/American 10K & Volksmarch: Sat 27 Oct, Franken

4. Turkey Trot 5 & 10K: Sat 17 Nov at Storck

The Franconia News 7 May 4, 2012

U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach


Photos: Timothy Riessner

Taking Back Sunday receive a plaque

from Col. Lawler as a thank-you for

their popular concert on Saturday.

Country-pop singer Nicole Frechette

and rock band Taking Back Sunday

performed a free concert in a hangar

on Katterbach on Saturday.

The show was presented by Navy En-

tertainment and Armed Forces Enter-

tainment.

About 600 people attended the concert

which was supported by many volun-

teers from the community, especially

BOSS.

USAG Ansbach Commander Col.

Kelly J. Lawler hits the drums with

Nicole Frechette and band on Satur-

day in Katterbach.



The Franconia News

S.T.R.O.N.G. BANDS R.I.P.P.E.D. Aerobic class in May at the Katterbach Physical Fitness

Story by Bianca Sowders and Patrick Kabuye A few months ago the USAG Ansbach Sports & Fitness program recruited a new instructor, Alcine Gross, with a new class that they had not even heard of, called R.I.P.P.E.D. Alcine is the only R.I.P.P.E.D. certified Instruc-tor in Europe. The class has taken Ansbach community by surprise; it has become very popular with each class attracting an average of 26 participants per class. R.I.P.P.E.D. – The One Stop Body Shock™ is a "Plateau Proof Fitness Formula" that helps you to create continuity, consistency and challenge in each and every R.I.P.P.E.D. class. It is Plateau Proof, because each component of the workout provides a uniquely different emphasis or system response, so your body never gets accustomed to the con-stantly changing format. Thus, regular R.I.P.P.E.D. partici-pants achieve undeniable, ultimate results in minimal time, boasting 750-1000 calories burned in just 50 minutes. This total body, high intensity style program, utilizing free weights, resistance and body weight, masterfully combines the components of R.I.P.P.E.D.--- Resistance, Intervals, Power, Plyometrics and Endurance as the workout portion along with Diet suggestions to help you attain and maintain your physique in ways that are fun, safe, doable and ex-tremely effective. To find out more about the program, go to www.rippedusa.com

Get R.I.P.P.E.D with Alcine




Story by David Zipf, USAG Ansbach Safety Office It’s not officially summer but the weather is heating up and soon many of you will be swimming in the various authorized swimming areas. Following are some tips to assure you have fun safely:

Always keep close watch of your children and insist they wear life jackets if they can’t swim!

If you leave the swimming area for ANYTHING (even for a moment!), take your children with you!

Make sure the water is clean.

When swimming in a lake, river or ocean, stay within the designated swimming areas (usually marked off by ropes or buoys)!

Heed all warnings!

Test the water depth (do not dive into shallow water).

Know your limits; it is easy to tire (especially in cold water or where there are currents) so do not go too far from the shore.

Wear your life jacket!

Don’t fight a strong current; swim parallel to the shore until you feel the current relax and then swim gradually to shore.

Wear footwear (like sandals or water socks) to protect your feet from hot sand, broken glass and sharp seashells.

Stay clear of plant and animal life: jellyfish, stingrays, certain types of seaweed for example can cause painful stings, allergic

reactions or cuts and scrapes

Stay “cool”: protect your skin with generous amounts of sunscreen.

Remember: “Safety Sense = Common Sense!”

Summer Safety Tips

Ansbach Area:

Ansbach AQUELLA (in-and outdoor)

Bechhofen Krummweiher (lake)*

Dinkelsbühl City - Wörnitzbad

Feuchtwangen City Pool (in-/outdoor)

Flachslanden Local Pool (outdoor)

Flachslanden Sonnensee (lake)*

Gunzenhausen Freibad (outdoor)

Gunzenhausen Hallenbad (indoor)

Gunzenhausen Igelsbachsee (lake)*

Gunzenhausen Altmühlsee (lake)*

Gunzenhausen Brombachsee (lake)*

Heilsbronn Local Pool (outdoor)

Herrieden Local Pool (outdoor)

Leutershausen Local Pool (outdoor)

Lichtenau Local Pool (outdoor)

Neuendettelsau NOVAMARE (in-and outdoor)

Rothenburg City – Hallenbad and Waldschwimmbad

Unterschwaningen Dennenloher See (lake)*

Weihenzell Local Pool (outdoor)

Windsbach Local Pool (outdoor)

Storck Barracks - Illesheim Area:

Bad Windsheim Local Pool

Bad Windsheim Franken Therme (in-and outdoor)

Burgbernheim Waldbad (outdoor)

Colmberg Local Pool (outdoor)

Neustadt/Aisch City Pool (outdoor)

Obernzennsee (lake)*

Uffenheim Local Pool (outdoor)

* Approved outdoor recreational area with swimming/bathing lakes. Only authorized on weekends and German holidays when lifeguards are present.

AUTHORIZED SWIMMING AREAS

Note: All other lakes, canals and sand pits are “off limits” to US Army personnel and family members.

The Soldiers Lake at URLAS (Ansbach area) is not an au-thorized swimming

area.


10 May 4 2012 The Franconia News

11 May 4, 2012



12 May 4, 2012

School Information: Unit 28614

APO, AE 09177

DSN: 467-2808/2809

CIV: 09802-83 2808/2809

FAX: 09802-1496

EMAIL ABSENCES TO:

[email protected]

School Website:

http://www.ansb-hs.eu.dodea.edu/

Main Office Hours of Operation:

Monday—Friday, 0730-1600

All DODDS—Europe employees may be reached via the following email format:

[email protected]

The Franconia News

Registration :

Register your children as soon as

you can, so the school can assess

the number of teachers needed

next school year.

JROTC:

Parents : If you have any of the Class A Officer pants that you don’t know what to do with, send them to AMHS to the JROTC department. They will dispose of them for you---for a good cause.

DATES TO REMEMBER

May 4 Honor Roll Assembly 2PM

8 Diffusing Conflict Training

8 Spring Concert

12 Prom

22 6th Grade field Trip to AMHS 9AM-11AM

24 Fun, Games & Dinner for incoming 6th

and 7th Grade Parents/Students

28 Memorial Day—Federal Holiday

31 HS Awards Assembly

1:30 PM

June 6 MS Awards Assembly

1:30 PM

Incoming 6th and 7th graders:

Students and parents of incoming 6th and

7th graders are invited to a evening of fun,

games and dinner on Thursday, May 24

form 5:30 - 7 p.m. in the AMSH Cafeteria.

Come see what your new school is like!

ANSBACH MIDDLE HIGH SCHOOL

mailto:[email protected]

USAG Ansbach News Briefs …..


Bikes Rule!

Fränkisches Weinland on May 6:

No autos on this road trip! Enjoy a relaxed pace or go for distance

along these scenic roadways lined with vendors selling cake, cof-

fee, beer and more. Inline skaters are also welcome. Transporta-

tion only: $29/adults, $19/children. Transportation/equipment: $35/

adults, $25/children. Pre-register at Outdoor Recreation. DSN 467

-3225, CIV 09802-83-3225.

EFMP Bowling

May 6: For those enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Pro-

gram with Army Community Service. 5-7 p.m. at the Storck Bowl-

ing Center. For more info: DNS 467-2883, CIV 09802-83-2883.

TOPPER Awards on Air

AFN Europe is showcasing the top Installation Management Com-

mand theater productions during a special airing of the "Topper

Awards," on the Pentagon Channel 7 p.m. Central European Time

OHA Survey’s Deadline Extended!

U.S. Army Europe’s Overseas Housing Allowance Survey’s dead-line has been extended until 11 May. The survey is intended to measure the amount of compensation service members are re-ceiving from OHA to live in privately leased or rented residential housing.

All service members, regardless of service affiliation, who reside in off-post housing, are requested to complete the survey in order to accurately gauge the amount of OHA service members are receiving. This survey is critical for ensuring OHA rates are prop-erly set at overseas locations and directly affects the amount of housing allowance each service member is entitled to.

Spouses are authorized to take the survey if the service member is deployed.

https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/aprutil.cfm

14 May 4, 2012

Katterbach Movie Theater

FRI MAY 4 –

SAT MAY 5 –

SUN MAY 6–

This Weekend in Ansbach and Illesheim Post Theaters …

7 p.m. Wanderlust (R)

4 p.m. This Means War (PG-13)

7 p.m. American Reunion (R) 1st Run

The Franconia News

Storck Movie Theater

SAT MAY 5 –

SUN MAY 6 –

4 p.m. This Means War (PG-13)


3 p.m. The Three Stooges (PG) 1st Run

The Franconia News


17

At the Movies in Schweinfurt

FRI MAY 4 - 7 p.m. The Three Stooges (PG)

SAT MAY 5 - 4 p.m. The Three Stooges (PG)


SUN AMY 6 - 4 p.m. The Three Stooges (PG)


May 4, 2012

U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt


18 May 4, 2012


The Franconia News

Story and photo by Margaret Gotheridge USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs SCHWEINFURT, Germany – He checks his recurve bow and slips the string taunt on the lower tip, loops the strung end on the outside of his foot, then slides the other end through the top. With steely nerves and the finesse of a master weaver, you’d never know he was shot multiple times at a point blank range. Staff Sgt. Ammala Louangketh of C Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe in Schweinfurt will be one of 50 athletes repre-senting the Army in the third annual 2012 Warrior Games. Louangketh has served the U.S. Army for 19 years. This will be the second time he’s competed in the games. Athletes from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Special Operations will compete April 30 – May 5 in Colorado Springs, Colo. The athletes are wounded, ill and injured servicemembers and veterans who will compete in archery, cycling, wheelchair basketball, shooting, swimming, track and field or sitting volley-ball, according to the Defense Department website. More than 200 competitors will be vying for top honors while dem-onstrating the difference between ability and disability. “Last year was definitely an eye opener and I feel that my recent training has better prepared me for this year’s competition. My physical training has helped me focus on my upper body and core areas, which are much needed in archery and sitting volleyball,” said Louangketh, who placed fifth in archery at last year’s games. Louangketh has been fascinated with archery and its history. He

b e ga n shooting compound and recurve bows at age 16. This year, to improve his chances at gold, he plans on mentally preparing him-self by relaxing with his family and going fishing, he said. “My goal is to be able to be competitive and learn more about the sport through other shooters,” said Louangketh. The recurve bow has additional curves at the top and bottom of the bow that turn away from the archer. The curves make it stur-dier and more powerful than a regular bow. Throughout history many civilizations like the Chinese, Mongols, Huns, Greeks and Turks have used the recurve bow as a weapon during war and peace. Today the story is much different and the bow is now the only bow allowed in the Olympics. Louangketh was shot in the leg Jan. 7, 2009 in Babil province. Soon afterward he spent several months going through rehabilita-tion in Landstuhl. When he was released he joined the WTB-Europe here. Although it has been more than three years since the injury, Louangketh still attends physical therapy sessions on a regular basis and will most likely continue doing so after he retires in June. “My injury has made me dig harder into my capabilities and help other wounded Soldiers by mentoring the younger Soldiers,” he said. The Warrior Games confirm the Army’s commitment in celebrating and acknowledging the more than 18,000 wounded, ill and injured Soldiers and veterans for their valor and resilience as Soldiers

Staff Sgt. Ammala

Louangketh from the

Warrior Transition Bat-

talion in Schweinfurt,

steadies and releases

the arrow from his grasp.

He will be one of 50 ath-

letes representing the

Army in the third annual

Warrior Games April 30 –

May 5 in Colorado

Springs, Colo.

Schweinfurt Wounded Soldier Competes in Warrior Games

19 May 4, 2012



Story and photo by Nathan Van Schaik

SCHWEINFURT, Germany — A memorial service was held at the Ledward Chapel Tuesday, May 1, to honor Spc. Bernard Hill Jr., a unit supply clerk attached to the 15th Engineer Battalion, who was killed in a traffic accident.

Soldiers close to Hill recalled memories of a selfless Soldier, a man of few words and as a loving father, husband and friend.

“Spc. Hill’s quiet soldierly demeanor and thoughtful expression are the images I will hold on to,” said Capt. Rachel Hoffman, Hill’s company commander.

“He accomplished his mission whatever it was without complaint and without seeking recognition. He kept a low profile among the Soldiers in the unit, but he had a greater impression on them than he may have believed,” Hoffman said.

Hill, 28, was from Homestead, Fla.

“The first thing I noticed about Hill was his quietness and how I had to just pull the words out of his mouth even if it was a joke,” said Spc. Ismael Rodriguez. Hill was Rodriguez’s sponsor.

“He was a great Soldier, true battle buddy and friend, but more than all he was my brother in arms. I could always count on him if I needed anything. He was a loyal family man and devoted to his wife and son. Spc. Hill was a great man,” said Rodriguez.

Hill entered the Army June 19, 2008 having completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, S.C. and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Lee, Va. He graduated Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga. and his first assignment was as a unit supply spe-

cialist with the 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, N.C. He par-ticipated in Operation Restore Hope in Haiti while assigned there.

Hill was later reassigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Com-pany, 15th Engineer Battalion in Sept. 2010 where he deployed to Kuwait in support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring Free-dom.

“Spc. Hill was one of those quiet professionals you always hear about,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Hamilton. “He didn’t say a lot, but was always helpful to those that needed him. He never complained and always drove on to complete any task he was given.”

“Spc. Bernard Hill was a hard working Soldier, a great para-trooper, a loving father, an attentive and dutiful husband, and a respectful and caring son,” said Sgt. First Class Antonio Vereen in a letter read aloud by 1st Lt. Nicholas Criner, the battalion’s officer in charge of logistics. Vereen was accompanying the body to the U.S. and was unable to attend the service.

Spc. Hill’s awards and decorations included the Army Commen-dation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Con-duct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Parachutist Badge.

Hill was killed in a traffic accident April 24 when the vehicle he was in was struck from behind by a large cargo truck on Autobahn A73 just south of Bamberg.

Spc. Hill is survived by his wife Karen Hill, his son Bernard Hill III, his father Bernard Hill and his mother Debra Hill.

15th Engineer Battalion Remembers Quiet, Hardworking Soldier


Community Celebration May 11: 4 – 11 p.m. Come out and enjoy the Schweinfurt Garrison Community Celebration for an evening of fun, food and festivities at the Conn Club & Pavilion. This is a free event for all ages to enjoy and relax with members of the community. Food will be available from local vendors. There will be bounce castles, a rock climbing wall and a dance floor to cut a rug on. The attire will be all civilian clothing within good taste and to the same standards as the DFAC. Support your or-ganization with its specific colors or distinctions. Fishing License Class May 11 – 13: 6 – 10 p.m. Outdoor Recreation will conduct a class for those interested in fishing while living here in Germany. The cost is $65 for event. If you would like more information or details pertaining to the class please contact our ODR on Conn Barracks, Bldg. 50 DSN 353-8080 CIV 09721-968080. Trip to the Eagle’s Nest May 12: BOSS will be hosting a trip to the famous Eagle's Nest. The cost is $60 which includes a separate bus trip up the mountain to the Eagle's Nest. Please bring extra Euro for personal expenses or souve-nirs. Sign up deadline is May 2. Minimum participation of 30 people required. After May 2, the trip will be open to all community members. Sign up at the Warrior Zone, Ledward Barracks Bldg. 224 DSN 354-6082 CIV 09721-96-6082. You may also sign up at the Finney Recrea-tion Center, Conn Barracks Bldg. 64 DSN 353-8476 CIV 09721-96-8476. Community Town Hall May 15: 10 a.m. There will be a Community Town Hall open to the entire community at the Conn Club on Conn Barracks. This will be your opportunity to engage with garrison leaders to discuss base clo-sure information and summer events and programs. Registration for Summer Camp May 15: Are your children interested in participating in fun events throughout the summer? If so registration for Summer Camp begins today. Registration will be conducted at the Parent Central Services, the Commons on Ledward Barracks, Bldg. 224. For more information please call DSN 354-6414 CIV 09721-96-6414. Registration for Fall Sports May 15: If you are looking for something entertaining to do next fall sign up for a sports team. Registration will be conducted at the Parent Central Services, the Commons on Ledward Barracks, Bldg. 224. For more information please call DSN 354-6414 CIV 09721-96-6414. Babysitting Class May 16 – 19: If you are in the 7th through 12th grade looking to earn money by babysitting sign up today for the babysitting class being of-fered by Parent Central Services. The location has not yet been deter-mined so please contact Parent Central Services located at the Com-mons on Ledward Barracks, Bldg. 224. For more information please call DSN 354-6414 CIV 09721-96-6414. Memorial Day Fun Run May 19: 9:30 a.m. Dust off your running shoes and sign up for the Me-morial Day Fun Run from May 1 – 18. The sign up locations are found at both Kessler and Finney Fitness Centers. Last minute registration will be available May 19 from 8 – 9:15 a.m. at Kessler Fitness Center. The start time for Adults is 9:30 a.m. and the start time for the Youth is 9:45 a.m. For more information please call DSN 354-6735 CIV 09721-96-6735.

USAG Schweinfurt News Briefs ..

U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg


23 May 4, 2012



24 May 4, 2012


The Franconia News

26 May 4, 2012


The Franconia News

How to get to Katterbach by bus:

To get close to the High School gate in Katterbach, use

Bus 755 (destination Untereichenbach) from Schlossplatz or

Bahnhof and get off at “Untereichenbach/Neukirchener Str.”

If you going to Bismarck/KatterbachKaserne, stay on the bus

to “Katterbach Kaserne.”

Bus 751 does not go to Katterbach anymore; once it

reaches Obereichenbach, it turns around to go back into

town.

All information on city buses is also available at:

www.stwan.de

Ansbach City Bus System

On some bus schedules, you see LBT (Linienbedarfstaxi) written at the very top of the bus times. This means Linienbedarfstaxi and loosely translates to taxi bus as required. The buses at these times only run if you call at least one hour ahead of the schedules time to reserve it. Call the LBT at: 0981-5005 and tell the operator when you want to go, from where (the station) you want to leave, where you’d like to go to (the station); your name and contact information, and then show up at the stop at the time indicated on the schedule.

Franconia News 4 May 2012

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