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Red Warriors Back At Fort Carson

Command Team Update by LTC Michael S. Avey and CSM Vincent Simonetti

This speaks volumes about

the professionalism

of the Red Warrior

Soldiers and Leaders

THE RED WARRIOR PATH

THE RED WARRIOR PATH is published by 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment for the families and friends of Red Warrior Soldiers. 1-12 Infantry is part of Task Force War Horse (2 IBCT, 4 ID). Contents of THE RED WARRIOR PATH are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or Department of Defense. Please send all questions or comments to CH Chase Musick at [email protected].

ON THE FRONT COVER: Scouts Training

LTC Michael S. Avey Battalion Commander

CSM Vincent SimonettiBattalion CSM

Change of Responsibility from CSM Brown to CSM Simonetti

Greetings Red Warrior families and friends! It has been about six months since our last newsletter, but it honestly feels like it was not that long ago. Time has been going by very quickly, and a lot has happened. In September, we started to really lean forward on redeployment from Afghanistan and that took us into November.

Then we redeployed everyone back to Fort Carson just in time for Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season. After we returned to Fort Carson, we quickly gained accountability of all of our equipment and went through the reintegration process, setting our families up for success. Right after block leave, we were right back at it again with inventories, a Battalion Ball at the Broadmoor, five Company Changes of Command, a Battalion Change of Responsibility, the beginning of individual training and ranges, and lastly, a Battalion Change of Command. Over the course of the nine month deployment, I was proud and humbled each and every day at what we ask our Soldiers to do and the fact that they go out and execute every task to a high level – day or night.

This speaks volumes about the professionalism of the Red Warrior Soldiers and Leaders. Just last month, we said goodbye to Command Sergeant Major Brown. He has been my right-hand man for the last two years and I could have not been any luckier to have such a great Non-Commissioned Officer to work with on a daily basis.

Command Team Update (continued) by LTC Michael S. Avey and CSM Vincent Simonetti

We would like

to thank all the

spouses,

Family

members,

friends, and

other

supporters Soldiers at the CoR

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

CPT Brown receiving an MSM

Although CSM Brown will be missed, we gained another great Command Sergeant Major that day in CSM Simonetti. He has hit the ground running and has already made an impact. In conjunction with the change of responsibility, I will be relinquishing command to Lieutenant Colonel Mills at the end of the month. The last two years have gone by quickly and I have been honored by the service of the Men and Women within the formation. They are truly America’s greatest resource and they continue to excel each day. I am humbled by their commitment to excellence and the profession of arms. It has been an honor to serve alongside so many great Red Warriors! I was fortunate to get to know many Soldiers on a personal level and I will definitely remember how special people truly are. They come from very diverse backgrounds, from all corners of the earth, and each with a personal story. The contribution of each and every Soldier and the sum of their experiences is what makes this oranization so great. In closing, we would like to thank all the spouses, Family members, friends, and other supporters who continue to support their Soldier. Your support has been instrumental to the well-being and success of the Battalion. Thank you for your sacrifices and for keeping everything going at home.

Red Warrior 6 and Red Warrior 7“Led by Love of Country”

LTC Avey

Arrowhead friends and families, The Battalion has returned home since our last newsletter. I know you were excited for the arrival of your Soldiers. I know, for us, it feels great to be home. Our last months in Afghanistan went smoothly. The greatest difficulty was waiting for Resolute Support to decide the fate of our replacements, which determined the level of our relief in place and transfer of authority process. It was decided fairly late in the game, but gave us enough time to adapt and provide a quality RIP for the incoming unit.

Arrowhead Company—Home Again by CPT TC Bowcutt and 1SG Branden Velazquez


Promotion ceremony for 2nd Platoon Soldiers prior to departing Afghanistan

Arrowhead Company at the M4 Range in January

The journey home began with container packing. The Soldiers of Arrowhead Company worked long hours in order to account for all of our property and prepare it for shipping back to Fort Carson. Equipment packing had to be balanced with operational needs. Platoons still maintained mission requirements until late into the process. Packing the containers had to be a deliberate process that was planned in conjunction with the arrival of Aco 1-187. As they were able to assume more of the mission requirements, we were able to complete our packing process.

All the Soldiers in Arrowhead Company were excited when the day finally came to depart Afghanistan. Our first flight got cancelled and we were rescheduled for the next day which was slightly demoralizing. In the end, we made it to Kuwait on time, and easily back to Fort Carson after 24 hours of flying. Since our arrival back at Fort Carson, we have spent valuable time planning for the upcoming year of training and spending some much needed family time, including block leave this holiday season. I hope everyone utilized the leave period to its fullest potential!

Since our arrival back at Fort Carson, we

have spent valuable time planning for the upcoming

year of training and spending some much

needed family time

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

1st Platoon Soldiers reached the top of the incline at a Platoon Event

Since the end of block leave and the beginning of 2017, we have started to get back into a more regular work cycle and seriously plan training for the upcoming year. We conducted our first range of the year on the 31st of January. We are working on qualifying expert in preparation for EIB in June and July. Qualifying expert with the M4/M16 series rifle is a prerequisite to participating in competing for the badge and can be conducted up to six months prior to the badge testing. Currently, our focus has been on change of command. I will leave command on the 22nd of February and hand the company over to CPT Evan Barber. This will be my final newsletter. To all Arrowhead family members, it has been an absolute honor to serve with your Soldiers and I hope my time in the company has positively impacted them as much as it has me. Thank you for your continued support of the company and the Soldiers who make it the effective fighting force that it is. I will truly miss interacting with Arrowhead Soldiers on a daily basis.

-Arrowhead 6 and 7

Brave family, this is the first time we have reached out since returning from Afghanistan. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year have all flown past and we are already leaning forward for the busy year ahead. Many changes are taking place in Bravo Company. We are saying goodbye to members of the family while welcoming new ones. As of February we are up to 119 Soldiers. Although the faces of this Company may be changing, our mission remains the same. To maintain readiness and answer any task or mission we're given.

Over the next couple of months, Bravo Soldiers will begin preparing for the coveted Expert Infantry Badge (EIB). To many this is a passage of rights in our community. For a week this summer, Soldiers will be tested on their physical fitness, land navigation, marksmanship, individual infantryman tasks, and treating casualties. Our Soldiers will also be attending various schools this year, conducting multiple ranges to maintain qualifications, and support units at NTC this April to May.

Brave Company—Turning a New Leafby CPT Sean McIntosh and 1SG Christopher Choay


BCO Soldiers taking some much needed down time

Although the faces of the

Company may be changing, our mission remains the

same.

Sustainment Operations

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

Key changes in the Company consist of new leadership. CPT Gregory Haire will be taking the guidon 15 February, 2016 as the new Company Commander. 1LT Erdman is heading to Charlie Company to take over as their Execuitive Officer and 1LT Zachary Williams is now 1st Platoon Leader. SFC Massey leaves 3rd Platoon, and is replaced by SSG(P) Dennis Banks. 1SG Choay and I would like to thank you once again for all your support and trust. I personally want to thank the Soldiers and families of Bravo Company for letting me be the commander of this talented group for 17 months. Best of luck in all your future endevors. Brave 6 signing off.

1SG Chris Choay and CPT Sean McIntosh


Comanche Company—On Targetby CPT Stephen Bruner and 1SG Willie Woods

We have

already

begun

setting the

stage for

our major

training

events

2nd Platoon conducts engagement skills

Soldiers enjoying the Battalion Ball (Continueed on pg. 9

Welcome back, Comanche families and friends! Happy New Year and a belated Happy Holidays from all your Comanche leadership and Soldiers! Since the last update, a lot has changed throughout our formation. We successfully completed the 9-month deployment, redeployed from Afghanistan, enjoyed block leave with our loved ones, and are beginning to train up for the next deployment in early 2018. Over the past six months, we have had a few more leadership changes within the company. In 2nd Platoon, 1LT Jesse Appelbaum replaced 1LT Junaid Lughmani and in 3rd Platoon, 1LT Nick Blair replaced 1LT Derek Oda. We also farewelled SSG Wagner and his wife, Jennifer and wish them the best of luck as he moves to HHC. Since returning from block leave, the Comanche Soldiers have continued to appreciate a low operational tempo. On January 14th, the Red Warrior family and Comanche Company Soldiers enjoyed the Battalion Ball at the magnificent Broadmoor Hotel and Resort. Comanche Soldiers, spouses, and dates appreciated this special moment, especially following a nine-month deployment. CPT Bruner and 1SG Woods represented the Comanche Soldiers and families in a display of true leadership when they poured German Schnapps and Jägermeister into the Grog in our battalion’s remembrance of the long arduous fight across war torn Europe during WW II. Comanche Soldiers danced and laughed all evening, creating memories amongst brothers and sisters for years to come.

We have already begun setting the stage for our major training events throughout 2017 that will make us successful for our next deployment in early 2018. We have started planning for a myriad of ranges, live fire exercises, classes, land navigation, and upcoming block leave in June. Immediately returning from block leave, all Comanche Soldiers will strive for the coveted Expert Infantryman Badge.

http://www.krdo.com/news/fort-carson-soldiers-to-conduct-fire-support-coordination-training/35618986




VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

SPC Warfield conducts training

PFC Tippit on target

Most recently, a handful of dedicated Comanche Soldiers have volunteered for pre-Ranger physical training with the hopes of attending Ranger Training Assessment Course (RTAC) and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia. During this specialized physical training, CPT Bruner and 1SG Woods lead the Soldiers through more intense physical exercises, ruck marches, and some additional land navigation training. As always, we want to thank all our FRG volunteers and families for your unwavering support. Your care and love are the things that keep the Comanche Soldiers at their best and will never go unnoticed or unappreciated.

-Comanche 6 and Comanche 7


(Continued on page 11)

Dog Company—Training in Actionby CPT Wesley Dempster and 1SG Justin Paullus

I speak for

the entire

Company in

thanking the

families for

the love and

support that

we received

CPT Botteri signs off as Dog 6 and CPT Dempster signs on

1SG Favor being awarded the MSM

Greetings Families and Friends of Dog Company! Many changes have happened since our last newsletter! Our Company redeployed from a successful and fulfilling rotation to Bagram Airfield (BAF). In addition to a location change, we have had numerous changes across all echelons of leadership in the company. We welcomed a new command team and offered farewell to the outgoing command team. CPT Botteri and 1SG Favor provided Dog Company with exceptional leadership, guidance, and respect for all individuals. CPT Botteri will now be taking command of Headquarters and Headquarters Company. The Red Warrior family is fortunate to still have his leadership and expertise. 1SG Favor is returning to the 5th Ranger Training Battalion in Dahlonega, Georgia. We wish both of them luck and thank them and their Families for the hard work and commitment to the Red Warrior Battalion. The Company is now led by CPT Wesley Dempster and 1SG Justin Paullus. We welcomed 1LT Brion Bircher and SFC Bryan Senz to our newly formed 1st Platoon.

1LT Joshua Martinez replaced 1LT Jeremy Brown as the 4/D platoon leader. 1LT Brown is now currently attending US Army Ranger school. After receiving great support from our Artillery and Engineer attachments, 1LTs Michael Guarino and Adam Leemans returned to 2-77 FA and 52nd BEB respectively. Dog Company appreciates the hard work and leadership from Jeremy, Mike, and Adam. The Warhorse BDE is fortunate to still have their experience and leadership. Last and certainly not least, Dog Company would like to congratulate both SPC Bell and his wife, Lauryn, on the birth of their daughter, Beatrix. In November of 2016, the soldiers of Dog Company returned from a 9 month rotation to Afghanistan. I speak for the entire Company in thanking the families for the love and support that we received during the duration of our deployment. Your encouragement, care packages, letters, and all other forms of support ensured that our soldiers had the fortitude to accomplish the mission.

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

Soldiers enjoying the Battalion Ball

In December, Dog Company Soldiers were rewarded with a much needed block leave period. Time for rest, relaxation, and recuperation with family and friends. It is during times like these in which we are reminded how fortunate we are to be soldiers in the United States Army, and are blessed with the strongest and most supportive families in the world. Following the return of block leave, the Battalion Ball was held at the prestigious Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. A time for comradery and the building of esprit de corp, the Ball was a great night for Dog Company. As we look forward to the upcoming year, and training cycle, Dog Company has many new faces and tasks to tackle. We are confident that the outstanding legacy and reputation of this company will continue to grow and prosper in 2017.1SG Paullus and I feel blessed and fortunate every day to lead America’s most precious resource; its’ sons and daughters. Soldiers would not be able to accomplish all that they do without the love and support of their families. I thank you for your continued dedication to the Red Warrior family, and we look forward to leading this great Company!Led by Love of Country! Red Warriors!

-Dog 6 & 7


Geronimo Company—Keeping the Red Warriors Moving by CPT Ralph Mora and 1SG Nicole Schmidt

Over the past

few months

I’ve seen

great things

from the

Soldiers of

Geronimo.

GCO moving heavy objects

Soldiers checking the essentials

Golf Company has been very active over the last month. After returning from a much needed block leave, the forward and rear detachment elements finally merged and Golf Company became whole again. After the merger, we rolled straight into preparations for the change of command coming up in February. Everyone has been working hard to complete layouts and inventories of all of our equipment in preparation for Captain Mora’s outgoing command and Captain Brewster’s taking command. We will be sad to see Captain Mora leave but are excited to see what Captain Brewster brings to the company.

In addition to all the change of command preparations, Golf has also been busy supporting the battalion’s ranges. All of the Soldiers in Distro platoon and some from Maintenance got ammo certified in preparation to pick up and transport ammunition for the battalion. It was a lot of hours in front of the computer and in the classroom, but we got it done. Putting those certifications to use, SSG Mantanona along with SSG Jones, SPC Lewellyn, and PFC Khalifeh kicked off the first ammo draw of the year to support the battalion’s first ranges after returning from deployment.

(Continued page 13)

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

Not only are we supporting the battalion’s ranges, but we are participating in them as well. Over the next couple weeks, we will be going in small groups to qualify ourselves. We could not have all of Golf Company out at once, otherwise who would keep the battalion running?It may sound like all work no play, but the Soldiers of Golf Company do know how to have fun. Thirty-four of us went to the Red Warrior Battalion Ball and had a blast. It was a great time for us to unwind and have fun with our brothers and sisters both in the company and in the battalion. There is a lot more exciting stuff coming up for Golf Company, so stay tuned.

Red Warriors

studiously checking inventory

GCO Soldiers at the Range


Hatchet Company— Support!by CPT Jonathan Brown and 1SG Buddy Tucker

we conducted a grueling five day long Scout tryout to select the best personnel to fill the ranks of the top Platoon in the Battalion.


Scouts training on Target Detection

Greetings friends and families of Hatchet Company! Welcome to our newest issue of the Hatchet newsletter. Our Soldiers have been busy since redeployment! The Scouts, Mortars, and Medics have all undergone leadership changes and are beginning preparations for the upcoming training cycle. The Mortar Platoon has been reorganizing its manning and personnel and they have been busy focusing on training and improving their ability to meet current and future missions. For training, they have been practicing gun drills, misfire procedures, safety checks, and Fire Direction Cell operations. In addition, they have been laying out equipment in order to facilitate the upcoming company change of command. In the upcoming months, the Mortar Platoon will be focusing more in-depth with gun drills and Fire Direction Cell operations in order to prepare ourselves for the next gunner’s examination. We will also be focusing on different weapons systems such as the M4 carbine, M249 light machine gun, M240 machine gun, and M9 pistol to prepare for the upcoming Expert Infantryman Badge testing. We wish SSG(P) Rios and his family a fond welcome as he assumes responsibility as the new Platoon Sergeant. Additionally, welcome to the other leaders and Soldier that are part of “Chaos Platoon!” With the start of a new year, the 1-12 IN Medical Platoon is prepared for a productive and progressive year. Recently, the platoon has been teaching Combat Lifesaver classes to the line companies. These classes qualify Soldiers to aid medics in treatment, as well as provide the knowledge needed to save lives on and off the battlefield. In addition to this training, the medical platoon will begin preparation for the Expert Field Medical Badge evaluation. The course will test medics through assessments of Tactical Combat Casualty Care, Medical Evacuation, Land Navigation, and physical fitness. With the school beginning in July, the platoon has plenty of time to prepare. We aim to send as many Soldiers as possible, and have each Soldier in the course earn their badge. We wish a warm welcome to all of the medics, new and old, as they rejoin us in Hatchet Company for the next couple of months!

Medics training in the COF

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

The layout!

During the Month of January, the Reconnaissance Platoon went through some substantial changes. We welcomed in a new Platoon Sergeant, SFC Nordyke, as well as a new Platoon Leader, 1LT Oda, and Scout Team Leader, SSG Tolbert. Along with Platoon leadership changes, we conducted a grueling five day long Scout tryout to select the best personnel to fill the ranks of the top Platoon in the Battalion. 1LT Oda is currently attending Reconnaissance and Surveillance Leaders Course and is slated to graduate in early February. SSG Calderon and SGT(P) Lombardi are attending Infantry Advanced Leaders Course and will graduate the 10th of February. Looking forward to the month of February, our training begins to accelerate with sniper weapons zeroing, M4 zero and qualification, and indoctrination of our newly selected personnel to reconnaissance operations. Lastly, we would like to bid farewell to 1SG O’Neil and his wife Sara. They are just going up the street to HHC Brigade, but we will surely miss their leadership and friendship. Additionally, we wish a fond farewell to CPT Matt Ferlitsch and Becca Ferlitsch. They are preparing to PCS to Fort Benning, GA. Their leadership was invaluable to the company over the past 8 months. Along with our farewells, we would like to welcome a few folks. We wish a warm welcome to 1LT Attitcus Blair and his wife Carrie as they join the Hatchet Team as the XO and FRG Treasurer. Additionally, we would like to welcome 1SG Tucker and his wife Becky. The Tuckers join us as the previous 1SG and First Lady of Arrowhead Company. Lastly, we would like to welcome CPT Devon and Krissy Botteri to the Hatchet Family. CPT Botteri will join us to assume command of Hatchet Company on 14 February. As the former Dog Company Commander, CPT Botteri brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the company and we know he will lead this company onto greater heights! Hatchet 6 & 7

Medics assessing the wounded for training


Plainly put,

personnel

readiness is a

measurement

of the unit’s

ability to

deploy

Battalion Staff Sections

S1—Back to Business

by 2LT Rogers

S1 rucking in the morning

In an S1 section, the periods right before and immediately after a deployment are the busiest. These are periods of transition for the battalion as a whole, as Soldiers depart the unit, new personnel arrive and are integrated into the formation. Then the effects of new leadership begin to mold the battalion in preparation for the ever-ensuring train-up and future missions overseas. This means an increased need for personnel support for Soldiers and leaders alike as the deployed and rear detachment elements have consolidated and the battalion is back in the rhythm of garrison operations. For the S1 section, this specifies a renewed focus on what the United States Army Chief of Staff has stated is his most important priority: personnel readiness. Plainly put, personnel readiness is a measurement of the unit’s ability to deploy. Units that deploy frequently, such as 1-12, are required to maintain a high level of personnel readiness. Coming off of a deployment and winter block leave, returning the battalion to a high level of personnel readiness is crucial to positioning the battalion to successfully complete pre-deployment train-up and whatever mission it is called upon to accomplish. The S1 section takes a vital role in this process, as we have a direct hand in ensuring that all Soldier-related paperwork and documentation are up to date, including personnel records, financial records, personnel information, family information, career progression data, and any other measures that potentially hinder a Soldier from being able to deploy - which we then highlight and begin to remedy. We also take a leading role in ensuring that the battalion has the appropriate personnel strength to accomplish its upcoming missions. For this aspect of readiness, we monitor authorized and assigned strength, track losses, facilitate the transition of personnel departing and leaving the unit, reporting and requesting personnel backfill and replacement key personnel. If the S1 section is able to keep the battalion at a level of personnel readiness commensurate with the unit’s professional capacity to fight and win the nations wars, then we have fulfilled our purpose


In addition to improving personnel readiness, the S1 section is currently undergoing its own internal period of transition. 2LT Nathan Rogers has assumed the OIC position from 1LT(P) Eric Brauninger. SPC Aaron Pryor is getting out of the Army to pursue education and a career in music production. SPC Tianna Blue has left the battalion and is now serving in the brigade S1 section, where she is helping them improve their systems and effectiveness. SGT Genao will PCS to the Pentagon in a few months. She was a valuable asset to the section over this last deployment and she will be missed. SGT Anderson is also getting out of the Army in a couple of months. She too was a terrific addition to the section and the battalion will miss her and her hard work. SGT Rushing will PCS to Fort Knox later this year, leaving the section with 2LT Rogers, SSG O’Bryant, and SPC Bujtas. Over the next few months, the faces of the section will change as new Soldiers are incorporated into the battalion and the Soldiers mentioned above leave, but what will not change is the fundamental character of the section that has endured through the last two deployments: Soldier-focused, operationally-centered, and reliable human resources support

2LT Rogers hard at work

SGT Anderson taking care of Soldiers



S2— Training: Land Navigation

by CPT William Fastenau


The Soldiers in the S-2 will continue to sharpen their skills

Land navigation is the military term for the study and practice of traversing through unfamiliar terrain by foot or in a land vehicle. This includes the ability to read maps, use a compass, and other navigational skills. There are typically multiple land navigation courses on a military installation that are several miles long in rough terrain and are performed under adverse conditions, such as at night or in the rain. This skill is crucial for all service members to practice as it reinforces team work, attention to detail, and critical thinking. Soldiers in the S-2 practiced their land navigation skills using Field Manual (TC) 3-25.26 in order to learn proper techniques and follow the Army standards. Basic map reading starts with understanding the symbology, color coding, and terrain features. For colors; black on the map indicates a man-made structure, blue marks water features, green areas are vegetation, red shows cultural features, and red-brown shows the contour lines and elevation changes. The main terrain features on the map are hills, valleys, ridges, saddles, and depressions. Secondary features are draws cuts and fills

Training in land navigation is also about using the terrain around you to navigate areas without getting lost. This is done by implementing terrain association. Terrain association involves the Soldier using terrain features that they can see and comparing it to their map. This technique allows the Soldier to narrow down their current position and plan a route that will be most efficient for troop movements. For example, the S-2 was tasked with moving to a valley surrounded by steep hills. On the map it would be possible to travel in a straight line, but it would force the Soldiers to climb steep hills with their gear. However, with the use of terrain association, the Soldiers recognized that there was a trail that went around the hills and still got them to their objective faster than they would have been if they had tried to scale the hills. Soldiers in the S-2 use this knowledge of land navigation and terrain association to find the optimal terrain for their fellow Soldiers to traverse. This all depends on multiple factors; the amount of troops, amount of gear, types of vehicles, weather, time available, steepness of terrain, cover, concealment, enemy positions, civilian positions, and the mission the Soldiers are tasked with. This practice is also used to predict the possible movements of the enemy as they are affected by the terrain the same way our Soldiers are. The Soldiers in the S-2 will continue to sharpen their skills in order to give the troops on the ground a tactical advantage with reliable and accurate information.

S2 practices their land navigation skills



We

congratulate

CPT Ragland

on his

promotion

S3—Planning on Deploymentby 2LT Timothy Chitpanya


Friends and Family of 1-12 IN, The S-3 Shop is getting back into their normal battle rhythm after redeployment and block leave. We are balancing family and work before training begins to intensify. The S3 Shop has also been re-acclimating to the altitude by conditioning and weight training during morning physical training. In this period of transition the Shop is undergoing many changes in personnel. We are integrating people into the unit, some current members are changing job titles/positions, and others saying goodbye to the shop. From the Enlisted side of the Shop, SGM Schofield has been assigned to Ft. Knox and left the Red Warriors in early January. We welcome SFC Kennedy, who has stepped up as the Operations Sergeant Major, and SSG Wagner assumes duties the NCOIC (Noncommissioned Officer in Charge). We are saying goodbye to SGT Murray, SGT Rodriguez, and SPC Nickel, whom are leaving the Army to pursue other opportunities.

From the Officer side of the Shop, we welcome 2LT McCarthy, 2LT Smith, 2LT Locklier, and 2LT Chitpanya, fresh out of the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course at Fort Benning. We are saying goodbye to CPT Haire who is taking command, CPT Hardman who going to the Signal Corps Captain’s Career Course, 1LT Yacovone who is going to the Military Intelligence Captain’s Career Course, and CPT Dragnet who is going to the Finance Captain’s Career Course. We also congratulate CPT Ragland on his promotion.

S3 LT's representing the shop

CPT John Ragland and Mrs. Ragland

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 5

Without all the Soldiers, NCOs, and Officers working together as a cohesive team, the S3 Shop could not provide invaluable guidance and support to the Companies across the Battalion. The Shop has been busy supporting the Battalion in an array of ways, whilst continuously participating in other unit functions. We would like to thank all the families for your continued support to your Soldiers and the Battalion’s mission. Overall, the S-3 shop is happy to be home, but always keep the mission in mind.

Steadfast and Loyal!

S3 setting the standard at morning PT

CPT Hardman at the Battalion Gym


I value

every Army

experience I

have been

through


S4— A Look in the Life of SPC Betancourt by SFC Smith

SPC Betancourt, 26, of Rio Hondo, Texas, enlisted into the Army on 11 June 2012 at San Antonio, Texas. She selected the Military Occupational Specialty of 92Y (Unit Supply Specialist) and attended Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, SC and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Lee, VA. From AIT she was assigned to Fort Carson under the former 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. After the deactivation of the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and subsequent re-activation as the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Warhorse Brigade), SPC Betancourt was transferred to the Red Warrior Battalion, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry regiment. SPC Betancourt deployed to Kuwait from 2013 to 2014 with the former Warhorse Brigade and then to Afghanistan, with the Red Warrior Battalion during the 2016 Afghanistan deployment in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. SPC Betancourt has served with honor and opted not to continue her enlistment, so she can pursue a career in nursing and possibly as a doctor in the long term.

SPC Betancourt

While interviewing her about her career in the Army, several of the things she stated resonated with me as her supervisor. She was brought up with seven older siblings and two younger. One of her younger siblings is only 11 minutes younger than her. Through my time with her, I had no clue that she was an older twin. As I continued with her interview, she stated that while she is getting out, she will take many experiences with her as she continues her journey as a civilian. “I value every Army experience I have been through and will take what I learned from them as they may help me on the civilian side.”

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 1

When asked about some memorable moments she has had in the Army, she replied that some of the things that stood out were promotions, being recognized for hard work, deployment “fun”, “but most of all meeting some awesome people I will call friends for a lifetime.” I, myself, recall how she has continuously pushed herself to grow even after her decision to get out of the Army. She doesn’t just stop and quit, as do some “Short Timers”. The resilience that she displays will continue to serve her well as she deals with the civilian ordeals that will replace the rigorous Army Operations Tempo. One of SPC Betancourt’s favorite quotes that she has heard throughout her enlistment is, “See…what had happened was…” Another quote that has started to grow on her comes from Chief Tecumseh during the American Indian Wars, "When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in yourself. "

The Red Warrior Battalion will be losing a Soldier to the Civilian World, but she will “be loyal to those with whom she has served, seniors, peers, and subordinates alike.” The Red Warriors salute you, Specialist Victoria Betancourt!

Interview conducted and transcribed by SFC Smith, S4 NCOIC

SPC Betancourt


The Soldiers of

S6 are a tight

knit group that

work well

together and

always place

the mission

first.


S6— Communication is Key

by SSG Klempner

These past three months have passed pretty quickly as we look forward to new equipment and challenges. Over the last three months, we have dealt with redeployment, reintegration, reset and enjoying our family time. Our section has been doing a wonderful job, both abroad and back here, preparing the battalion’s signal footprint to have a successful integration. Along with that, it has not been all work as we celebrated as a section during the military ball. The Soldiers of S6 are a tight knit group that work well together and always place the mission first. During our reintegration, the automations section took care of fixing computers, creating user accounts and ensuring all companies were able to fully operate. They ensured every user had access to all their information in order to conduct business as usual. The CNR section took care of sorting out and inventorying all signal equipment to ensure 100% accountability. After reintegration was complete, they moved on to their reset tasks before going on leave and spending some time with family. Once back from leave, we hit the ground running tackling all our reset tasks. We turned in our command and control system and command post communication system preparing the battalion to have all communication systems available and in working order during training. The CNR section conducted maintenance on all radios and Battle Field Trackers identifying shortages and broken parts to ensure that all the equipment is fixed in time for our training coming up. As we worked hard, we also participated in the battalion’s military ball celebrating all our recent accomplishments. The section had a good time with their spouses as we relaxed and enjoyed a nice meal and good music provided by DJ Maze (CPL Witzens). The Soldiers had an opportunity to enjoy themselves while building comradery and making good memories. It was a very successful event to say the least in which they were able to hang out with their battle buddies. During this time, SSG Klempner became the physical training instructor ensuring our Soldiers get an awesome workout. He makes it worthwhile waking up early in the morning ensuring everyone stays in shape and prepares for the upcoming physical training test. SSG Dunn took the initiative with our newly implemented sergeant’s time training and successfully conducted class instruction on radio operations, and maintenance. At this point, the S6 section is doing an amazing job at completing all tasks at hand while preparing for upcoming training and field exercises. We will continue to lean forward and give it 100 percent as we focus on becoming the best trained section in the battalion, RED WARRIORS!!!

S6 on a morning ruck


I was just recently at a retirement ceremony for about ten soldiers. It was a joyful time where we had the opportunity to recognize and celebrate over twenty years of service for these men and women. The first soldier got up with his wife and a couple kids, they were all beaming with pride. Perhaps they were celebrating20 plus years, or perhaps they were celebrating that it was over! Whatever thereason, they celebrated together. Some of the soldiers had a lot of family standing with them and some of them very little family standing with them. This got me thinking about great accomplishments and what they mean when they are shared with loved ones. How sad it was for some of these men and women who had broken homes and no one to celebrate this great accomplishment with. I know for me if I ever make it to twenty years I want my wife and kids right there with me. I imagine that many of you would also want your spouse and children standing with you, celebrating twenty years. In order to make this happen we must be committed to our spouse and committed to our marriage. Without commitment our marriages will not endure a military career.

Commitment to our spouse is not an easy thing and I would submit that many of us would say that we are committed without really being committed. To be committed means to pledge yourself to a particular action. Commitment is defined as, “a promise to give yourself, your money, your time, ect.,to support or buy something.” This means when you married your spouse you made a commit-ment or promise to give them your time, your money, and everything you are to make sure that your marriage thrived. This most certainly is a choice, a very

important choice. Unfortunately, I have seen this choice made hastily and without much thought. Vince Lombardi said it this way, “Most people fail, not because of lack of desire, but, because of lack of commitment.” We all desire a great marriage but are we committed?

The type of commitment that I am talking about is an “all in proposition.” Once you are committed there is no turning back.There must be resolve behind this choice. Much like the resolve of Cortez in 1519 when he landed on the shore of Vera Cruz, Mexico. Once his troops were on shore he burned the boats that they crossed the ocean in, there was no retreat, there was no giving up. Where there is steadfast resolve there is no giving up. In order for this to happen there must be unconditional acceptance. That means you must choose to accept your spouse just the way they are. There are few things in life better than having your spouse know you intimately and still love you just the way you are. Do we have this kind of resolve in our marriage?

Being committed to your spouse means putting them first, knowing what they need and want. Then actually putting their needs and wants above your own. The idea is that you are looking out for the best interest of your spouse and they are looking out for your best interest. How this plays out day to day can be explained in this manner. Some people say in marriage its split right down the middle 50/50. I do 50% and my spouse does 50%. Well that is a bunch of crap and doesn’t work out. Next people say marriage is a 100/100 proposition where both parties need to give 100% all the time. Well, that is getting closer but that still doesn’t really work because we all can’t give 100% all the time. There is going to be days when your kids have been straight crazy all day and when you get home from work your wife is completely spent and she may only be able to give 75% that evening. That is when you need to step it up and give 125%. This principle goes both ways. The key to success is being selfless and knowing when to step it up and do more then your fair share.

Make this year your best year of marriage ever by being committed to your spouse! If you are struggling with your marriage there is a lot of help out there that the military offers. There is myself (406) 366-7883. You have the brigade MFLC (Lonnie) (719) 244-5831. There is ACS which offers marriage classes and parenting classes. Finally there is Military One Source which will pay for ten counseling sessions off post, www.militaryonesource.com. If you have any questions on the resources or if there is any way that I can help you, please call me. God Bless Chaplain Chase Musick

Chaplain’s Message— Stay Committed to Your Spouse by Chaplain (CPT) Chase Musick

http://www.militaryonesource.com

Red Warrior Back At Fort Carson news/2017/The Red Warrior P… · by LTC Michael S. Avey and CSM...

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