Bonds Through the Ages:The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Give a Warm

Welcome to Vietnam War Veterans

King of Battle: The Field Artillery 1-144 Rocks the NTC

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Guard Unit show why they wear the Blackhorse patch with pride

Lucky 16:A family reunion of Cavalry Units hosted here at the

11th Armored Cavalry Regimental Stomping Grounds

Summer Edition 2014

The BlackhorseCol. John L. Ward

Commander of 11th ACR

CSM Carl A. AshmeadCommander Sergeant Major

of 11th ACR

Cpt. James Williams IIIPublic Affairs Officer

Publication StaffCpt. David S. Miller

Writer

Sgt. Erik A. ThurmanWriter

Sgt. David N. BeckstromWriter

Pfc. Denitra T. HalfordGraphic Artist

1st Lt. Evan M. FitzgeraldUPAR

The Blackhorse newsletter is an authorized publication for

members of the Department of Defense.

Editorial content is the responsibility of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs

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

or the Department of the Army.

Are You a Photographer or Writer?

The Blackhorse is looking for photos and stories on 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Anyone can submit a story or photo to 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs Office at (james.i.williams8.mil@mail.mil). Photos must contain cutlines that identify the following: full name, rank, unit, and hometown. Stories should

be on or relate to 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Soldiers. However, travel stories and

editorials will be considered. For additional information please contact

11th Armored Cavalry RegimentPublic Affairs Office at (760) 380-8358.

ALLONS!

Command Sgt. Maj. Ashmead and I would like to thank the Troopers, Families, Civilians, and Veterans of the Blackhorse Regiment. Without the

contributions of each and every one of you there is no way that we can be successful in accomplishing our mission, honoring our heritage, and preserving the cavalry tradition.

You are our Regiment’s greatest asset.My time as the 65th Regimental Commander is coming to close. I want to thank all of you

for the lifelong impression you have made on me and for makingthis assignment the best of my career. Because of your efforts we have honed the combat skills of tens of thousands of Soldiers; many of whom have deployed to fight our nation’s wars. A measurable amount of their success and lives saved can be attributed to the work

that we have done here. I will take a little part of each of you with me and hope to find myself in the company of many of you at some point in the future.

NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER’S REPLICATED

ENEMYStory by Capt. David Miller11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

Fort Irwin, Calif. –February 2014, the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment is seeing their

hard work pay off. The 11th ACR spent the last 18 months training and executing Decisive Action opposing force tactics, and as of February of 2014 many have called them the measuring stick of the Army.

The 11th ACR has played the role of an “opposing force” at the National Training Center (NTC) since 1994. However, the role of opposing force has evolved every time the current operational environment has changed. They began by portraying the role of a near peer in the nineties, specializing in mechanized Infantry and Tank battles in desert terrain. When Operation Iraqi Freedom began, they replicated urban insurgencies, the role of local national security forces, as well as civilians on the battlefield. Recently, they have given U.S. Army units the challenge of facing asymmetric tactics in the mountains and small villages similar to what units face in Afghanistan. However, in the last two years, the 11th ACR has pursued the challenge of replicating a combination of every role that they have portrayed in the last 20 years. The newest NTC rotation is called Decisive Action and its main focus is preparing U.S. Army Brigade size elements, known as the Rotational Unit (RTU) for world wide deployment against a near peer enemy. Furthermore, this rotation trains units to not only face this Mechanized

Force, but Brigades also have to partner with local Army elements and face the challenge of Counter Insurgency Operations against an asymmetric guerrilla element. It is the most challenging battlefield imaginable.

After over a decade of portraying an insurgency, the 11th ACR returned to replicating, near peer: foreign Tanks, Infantry Fighting Vehicles, and Tow Missile Trucks. They portrayed the near peer Army that 11th ACR was feared for during the nineties. During the first few modern day Decisive Action Rotations, the fights were not as one sided as they were supposed to be.

A simulated improvised explosive device goes off during a training lane on Fort Irwin, Calif., Nov. 25.

The IED is used to increase the realism of the battlefield. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

accordingly. Their hardest days should be in the Mojave Desert which will only better them should they go overseas to face a real enemy.” During the spring of 2013, 1st Squadron 11th ACR got the opportunity to conduct its own training on a Decisive Action platform. They received training from the Observer, Coach, Trainers from Operations Group who normally focus on Rotational Units that are at Fort Irwin. It began at the Platoon level and eventually expanded up to the Squadron level, focusing on planning, maneuver techniques, as well as perfecting use of the equipment.

Col. John Ward explains, “As the opposing force at the National Training Center, 11th ACR serves as the measuring stick for the Army. If we are not creating the most challenging battlefield conditions in the world for the Rotational Units, we are doing them a disservice. It is our job to allow them to learn through their actions while adjusting their tactics, techniques, and procedures

Shortly after this training event, the 11th ACR replicated a near peer opposing force during NTC Rotation 13-08. However, this time they won all four major battles in the most convincing manner in over two decades.

Capt. Sebastian Engels, C 1/11ACR Troop Commander explained, “We went from nearly no maneuver capability to fully utilizing US doctrine in combined arms maneuver. The FTXs allowed for fundamentals to be developed at the lowest levels in the sections and platoons, refined through multiple repetitions, and then utilized in troop and squadron operations. Rotational performance enhanced exponentially following the repeated FTXs and showed in our success during Rotation 13-08.”

It is approximately One and a half years since the 11th ACR set out to reaffirm themselves as the nationally feared near peer opposing force, and in February, the 11th ACR ended another rotation with another series of convincing victories. Blackhorse Troopers walk with a swagger these days with the motto of, “This is Our House,” and the attitude of never being beat. However, every Blackhorse Trooper will acknowledge the importance of their impact on Brigade Combat Teams coming to Fort Irwin and the magnitude of being the best so that they can legitimately improve the rest of the Army.

Spc. Jeffrey Stalcup, a Javelin Gunner in B 1/11 ACR portrays the sentiment of the entire Regiment by saying, “I am proud to be a part of the improvements that this unit has gone through. We have learned to technically master our systems that used to present a challenge for us, such as the Javelin Anti-Tank Weapon. This has helped us reach our potential and train the RTU to the fullest capacity. Our mission is to ensure that the hardest fight for the RTU is at Fort Irwin. Our main goal is to indirectly prevent Soldiers from dying in combat.”

A Trooper with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment poses for a photo with his tank on Fort Irwin, Calif., June 21. The

tanks used during the Rotations simulate near-peer opposing forces that the Military might battle in the future.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Bonds Through the Ages

Jim Bledsoe and Roger Sturgis, veterans of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, display their motorcycle group's vest at the March 28, Welcome Home Ceremony and Motorcycle Ride on Marine Corps Logistic Base, Barstow, Calif. The Ceremony is to give the Vietnam Veterans the reception they should have received in the first place. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs /

Released)

Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The Fort Irwin community honored Veterans of the Vietnam War March

28, with a Motorcycle Ride and Welcome Home Ceremony. The ride started at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow, Calif., and ended here. “When I came home, I was told to change out of my uniform because it was dangerous,” said Ken Sabo, an 11th ACR Vietnam Veteran. “People didn’t like us at the time because they thought that every bad image coming from Vietnam was because of us. This was not what I expected.”

The Ride and Ceremony have become a tradition for the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, local Veterans, and the Fort Irwin Community.

The Welcome Home Ceremonies are conducted to provide a thank you and welcome home which many Vietnam Veterans didn’t receive after the war. The motorcycle ride allows people from all

over to show their support.

Participating veterans got to relive the camaraderie which they held while serving on the battlefield. “The uniqueness of the 11th ACR, being smaller than a Division, is one of the reasons we have such close bonds,” said Jim Bledsoe, a veteran of the 2nd Squadron, 11th ACR, serving during the time the Regiment was guarding the Fulda Gap in Germany during the Cold War. Wewereself-sufficientacrossthedifferentareas of the Regiment, said Roger Sturgis, also a veteran of the 11th ACR during the time of the Fulda Gapmission.Whenwewentouttothefield,wehadthe same cooks, mechanics, artillerymen, etc. as we did in garrison. The best part of this setup was getting to know the people we were working with. “Today, your friends in the Unit are called Battle Buddies, but for me the whole Squadron and

Ken Sabo, an 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment Vietnam Veteran,

and Miles Kimberling, a

Blackhorse Motorcycle associate,

converse with Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen J.

Travers, the Command Sgt.

Maj. of Fort Irwin, before the March

28, Welcome Home Ceremony

on Fort Irwin, Calif. The Cere-

mony is to give the Vietnam Veterans the reception they

should have re-ceived in the first place. (U.S. Army

photo by Sgt. David N.

Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, Public Affairs /

Released)

Regiment are my Battle Buddies,” said Chuck Lewis, a Veteran of the 11th ACR during Fulda Gap and again during Desert Storm. As the Regiment was called upon time and again to go into harm’s way and to protect freedom, two associations as well as several motorcycle groups were formed. Several members of each group participated in the ride and ceremony.

The Blackhorse Association was the first,whichwasstartedin1969asapromisefromthen Col. George S. Patton and Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Squires to ‘not let people forget us’ and to ‘take care of our kids.’

Second, is the 11th Armored Cavalry’s Veterans of Vietnam & Cambodia, whichwasfoundedin1984afterseveralnamesofBlackhorse veterans were collected at the dedication of The Three Soldiers statue as a part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. “These groups were made to honor our fallen

brothers and to build Esprit de Corps among the rest of us,” said Sabo.

The Blackhorse patch

Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, Veterans and Community

Members mingle by their motorcycles after a March 28, Welcome Home Ceremony and

Motorcycle Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif.

The Ceremony is to give the Vietnam

Veterans the reception they

should have re-ceived in the first place. (U.S. Army

photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public

Affairs / Released)

has a high recognition factor. Many times people have come up to thank me for the things which the Regiment did, even though I wasn’t a part of that specificmission,saidBledsoe.

“This level of friendship and camaraderie is rare within the military, and if we want it to continue then I have a challenge to the Troopers out there today: work together,” said Sturgis. “Just because you got a promotion doesn’t mean that you don’t have to do things. Don’t put your Troopers on a detail that you wouldn’t do. If they are sweeping the motor pool then grab a broom and help them. Not only will they respect you for it, but they will work harder for you because they know that you have their back.”

Throughout the years the Regiment has had a strong bond of friendship which can grow larger and more fruitful as time goes on and more Troopers are assigned to the unit.

Sgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs.

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – A Japanese Ground Self Defense

Force Battalion joined Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in January for a training exercise at the National Training Center here.

Thefirstofitskind,thetwounits teamed up for an exercise aimed at preparing the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Joint Base Lewis-McCord for worldwide deployment. Scenarios included challenges faced while working with host nation militaries, while providing both the U.S. and Japanese Forces a chance to expand upon an existing partnership.

“The objective is to improve our unit maneuverability and capabilities, and to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese,” said Lt. Col. Nobuyuki Ishii, the lead staff officerofGroundStaffOffice(equivalent to Department of the Army Headquarters).

Before U.S. Army units deploy,theyfirstrotatethroughNTC, where they must face Troopers of the 11th ACR, who serve as the Army’s sparring partner. The 11th ACR specialize in replicating Opposing Forces Host Nation Security Forces; insurgencies; and civilian populations. The goal is to challenge training units that come through NTC on their capabilities prior to combat. The visiting JGSDF Battalion holds a similar mission-set while at their home station at Japan’s Camp Fuji

Combined Arms Training Center.

“This is a very different training environment for us,” said Ishii. “In Japan, the maneuver area is limited and in a much smaller area. Not only is this a larger physical environment, suitable for large scale training, but we think the experience in a harsh, desert environment will toughen our Soldiers.”

The3rdSBCTwasthefirstrotationaltrainingunitof2014.Forthe rotation, JGSDF consisted of three mechanized infantry platoons and one tank platoon. They paired with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR, to become Task Force Red Blitz which aimed to replicate HNSF. The 3rd SBCT could then direct or assist Task Force Red Blitz in the same way they would during partnerships with real-world HNSF during overseas operations.

U.S. and Japanese Forces

Pioneer TrainingTroopers with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and a Japanese Ground Self Defense Force Battalion pose for a

photo on each others tanks during a joint training rotation at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif. "The objective is to improve our unit maneuverability and capabilities, and to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese," said Lt. Col. Nobu

yuki Ishii, the lead staff officer of Ground Staff Office. (U.S. Army photo by the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)

Capt. Sebastian Engles, from Presque Isle, Maine, commander of C. Troop, 1/11ACR, explained that initiallya communication barrier existed between 11th ACR Troopers and Japanese Soldiers. Both units had to rely on interpreters to communicate. Technical aspects wereevenmoredifficult.“We could not talk to them on the radios because our systems werenotconfiguredtotalktoeach other,” said Engles. The maneuvering capabilities of the two elements also presented a challenge.

“Their vehicles were not ready for the environment,” continued Engles. “They popped a lot of tires but they were quick to adapt.Engles explained that though each unit had to make adjustments onthefly,theattitudeofeachforce was to adapt and overcome regardless of the conditions. “Itwasdefinitelyatestforthearmy.Itwasthefirsttimethatitever happened,” he said. To solve communications issues, Engles placed the JGSDF Battalion commander inside a Humvee on themockbattlefieldwithaU.S.ArmyOfficertocallinreportsonthe commander’s behalf. “I also had a (Noncommissioned Officer)servingasaliaisonwithone of their companies, armed with a radio so he could provide real-time information to me on what the company was doing. We didn’t start that way. It was initially ‘let’sjusttrytofigurethisout’,”Engles said. “Overall, especially by the end of it, we had progressed significantly,tothepointwherewe were conducting operations together and we were a force to be reckoned with.” Sgt. Jose Mercado, a Tanker from New York City, assigned to C. Troop, served as a liaison

between the two companies. “At the squad level, the partnership was really important. In order for ustoestablishthesortoffightingteam that we had together, we had to have that type of communication so I could paint the picture of the battlefieldforthecommander,”hesaid.

Mercado found that each of the two militaries had cultural similarities that were easy for many 11th ACR Troopers to identify with. “Once they got to the point where they needed to be aggressive; they were aggressive. Their ability to shoot move and communicate was impressive. They want to defend their country. They love their country. They are really proud of what they do. The guys that I worked with were reconnaissance scouts. I learned a lot from them and I was really impressed.”

Engles found the exercise tohaveresonatingbenefits.“Itwas a very unique experience. I think as we step back from Iraq and Afghanistan, a lot of my Troopers have not had the experience to

work with an allied military. This was eye opening for a lot of these guys who may have come from somewhere where they never left their hometown prior to joining the Army. Now all of the sudden they are climbing aboardaType74Tank(mainbattletank of the JGSDF) and conversing with Japanese Soldiers on the similarities or the differences of our equipment or even, the cultural similarities and differences. And I think that more than anything else that was a win for me. In the event we ever have to go work with these guys in the future at the very least we have this to look back on and say ‘hey it’s still possible.’ It’s absolutely possible to work with another military.”

A portion of this article was taken from a previous publication by the National Training Center, Public Affairs: http://www.army.mil/article/118238/Japanese_Soldiers_train_at_National_Training_Center_for_the_first_time

Capt. Sebastian Engels, Commander of C

Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment, and Lt. Col. Nobuyuki Ishii, the lead staff officer of Ground Staff Office, pose for a photo in

front of their tanks. A Japanese Ground Self

Defense Force Battalion joined

Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Reg-iment in January for a training exercise at the

National Training Center. (U.S. Army photo by the 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment / Released)

Lucky 16

The Command teams and staff pose for a photo during the Lucky 16 Charter signing and gathering on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 7. The Lucky 16 is comprised of the three Cavalry Regiments in the active Army; the 2nd CR Dragoons, the 3rd CR Brave Rifles, and the 11th ACR Blackhorse. The number 16 is the sum

of the identifying numbers of each unit. A Lucky 16 Gathering convenes each time at least two of the three units participate in corresponding missions while at the same location. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. James

Williams III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Lucky 16

Story by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, photos by Capt. James Williams

Fort Irwin, Calif. – Troopers of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment and 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

participated in a Lucky 16 Gathering, following 3rd CR’s training at the National Training Center, April 7, here. The Lucky 16 is comprised of the three Cavalry Regiments in the active Army; the 2nd CR Dragoons, the 3rd CR Brave Rifles, and the 11th ACR Blackhorse. The number 16 is the sum of the identifying numbers of each unit. A Lucky 16 Gathering convenes each time at least two of the three units participate in corresponding missions while at the same location. “The forming of the Lucky 16 was initially to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures because it was figured at that time that a young officer was likely to bounce between the different cavalry organizations during his career,” said Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR. “They wanted to have some sort of standardization to reduce any overlap between the organizations. To me that’s still

very important. The basics of reconnaissance are still there. And an opportunity to get the people together, the organizations together, to share some of that background is a great thing.” At the event, leaders gathered to recount in the history of all three units and add to that history by signing a Charter that includes a proclamation that marked the commencement of the Lucky 16. “I served as an enlisted Soldier during my time in the 2nd CR before becoming a commissioned officer,” said 1st Lt. Walter Holmes, Executive Assistant for the 11th ACR. “Now that I am serving in the 11th ACR, it’s good to see the Cavalry from the perspective of another unit to expand upon the heritage of it all.” Holmes said the April 7, Lucky 16 Gathering was a first for him and that what he enjoyed most about the event was the retelling of the history of all three units and the camaraderie and strengthening of bonds that comes with it. To understand the significance of the Lucky 16, it is important to understand the history of how

Colonel Cameron M. Cantlon, Commander of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment with a plaque to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Col. John L. Ward, Commander, who accepts the plaque on behalf of the 11th ACR, during a Lucky 16 Gathering, Fort Irwin, Calif., April 7. (U.S.

Army photo by Capt. James Williams III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

these units, particularly the 11th ACR, came to be. In 1901, after congress moved to increase the size of the U.S. Cavalry, Col. Francis Moore, a seasoned combat veteran of the Civil and Spanish-American Wars, became responsible for activating the 11th Cavalry Regiment as the unit’s first Commanding Officer. Moore started by bringing hardened non-commissioned Officers and Officers to the unit from other existing Cavalry Regiments such as the 2nd and 3rd Cavalry Regiment as well as the 11th Volunteer Cavalry. “I have 400 men who have never seen a horse. I have 400 horses who have never seen a man. And I have 15 Officers who have never seen a man or a horse,” said Moore, more than one-hundred years ago. Over the next few decades, riding on horseback became a less viable means of war-fighting. Cavalry units were eventually deactivated, re-designated or outfitted with modernized equipment which dramatically changed their tactical nature. Despite modernizations, many traditions survived. Spurs, Stetson cowboy hats, sabers and the tactical terminology used in the old cavalry remain commonplace. For example, a Trooper would not simply ride in a tank rather; he would be mounted on his tank.

During the 1970s in Nuremberg Germany, the organization was ironically known as the Lucky 13; then only comprised of the 2nd and the 11th. By

Command Sgt. Maj. Carl Ashmead, the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment, signs a

charter acknowledging a Lucky 16 Gathering at Fort Irwin, Calif.,

with members of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, April 7. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. James Williams

III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released)

1979, the 3rd joined the fold, evolving the organization into the Lucky 16. It became based more on tradition since by then, the missions of each Regiment, as well as their equipment, were different. “I first came to know of the Lucky 16 while training at NTC while assigned to the 2nd ACR based out of Fort Polk, Louisiana,” said Ward. “During that rotation we were able to combine the 11th, the 2nd; the 3rd ACR and interestingly enough, the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment from the Tennessee National Guard. So, at that time we had the four serving Cavalry Regiments within the United States Army. I was a young Major at that time and just in the gathering of those individuals left a lasting impression on me.” Today, the Dragoons, Brave Rifles, and the Blackhorse continue to play a vital role as some our Nation’s deadliest modern war-fighters. The Dragoons and Brave Rifles are outfit with Stryker Armored Fighting Vehicles, designed for use in urban combat. The Blackhorse is outfit with a wide array of tracked vehicles, serving as the sparring partner for the rest of the Army. The 11th ACR also stand ready to deploy if called upon.

Denim Day WalkSgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

Fort Irwin, Calif. – Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Family Members and

members of the Fort Irwin community participated in a post-wide Denim Day Walk to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault here, April 10.

“It was a very motivating experience,” said Spc. Sara Fleming, a Nodal Network Systems Operator, assigned to the 11th ACR. “It’s good to see that the Army is taking such a strong stance on this. It supports the notion that the victim is not the one to blame for sexual assault. I have only been in (Army) for four and a half years and in that time I have noticed an increase in awareness and the way they actually approach the cases.”

The denim worn by participants referenced a 1998 Italian court case where a convicted rapist was released from prison due to the victim’s tight jeans. The courts concluded that because the victim’s jeans were so tight, the victim must have assisted the attacker with their removal – thus giving consent. The court’s decision sparked outrage among women in the Italian Parliament who began wearing denim in protest.

The trend grew world-wide into Denim Day. Organizations across the globe, now wear denim in solidarity to symbolize the work that still needs to be done to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Participants at Fort Irwin took to the streets to walk through neighborhoods and by local schools where children lined the curbs to watch the walk. The 11th ACR included an Army tank as well as

the 11th ACR Horse Detachment to symbolize the Regiment’s support for raising awareness, in which an attacker was released from prison by an Italian court, who found that because the victim wore tight jeans, they would have had to assist the perpetrator in removing them, thus giving consent. The court’s decision sparked outrage among women in the Italian Parliament who then began wearing denim to work in protest. The trend grew worldwide into Denim Day, where organizations wear denim in solidarity to symbolize the work that still needs to be done to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Troopers, Families and other members of the Fort Irwin community gathered together to participate in their own Denim Day Walk, to show their willingness to support victims and to raise awareness. Following the event, leaders engaged Troopers, assuring them that sexual harassment and sexual assault will never be tolerated in the US Army and that leaders want victims to come forward so they can be given the care they need and so that victimizers can be brought to justice.Following the Denim Day Walk, leaders engaged Troopers, assuring them that sexual harassment and sexual assault will never be tolerated in the US Army. Leaders stressed that they want victims to come forward so that they can be given the care they need and so that victimizers can be brought to justice.

“I’m glad to see the Army’s implementation of victim advocates who help victims of sexual assault receive treatment instead of the Army focusing solely on the judicial proceedings of perpetrators “ said Spc. Fleming.

“People are our number one priority, it doesn’t surprise me that the Army is going to such great lengths to prevent sexual assault and sexual harassment,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, 11th ACR.

Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Horse Detachment pass a local Fort Irwin school, during the annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April

10. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

A shirt is displayed during an annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April 10. (U.S. Army

photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads Troopers of the Regiment during the annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April 10. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Lt. Col. Freder-ick R. Snyder, the

Commander of 1st Squadron, 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads his

Troopers as they march through

Barstow, Calif., to the Barstow Veterans Home of California

on Dec. 17. The march from Fort

Irwin, Calif., to the Veterans Home is a tradition which Sgt. Maj. Ret. Scott R.

Johnson, a for-mer 1/11 Trooper,

started. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public

Affairs / Released)

Col. John L. Ward, the Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads a Regimental Run in preparation

for the 14-07 Rotation against 2nd Stryker Bri-gade Team, 25th infantry Division

on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 14. The runs are to promote esprit de corps and

to remind the Rotational Training

Unit that ‘This Is Our House!’ (U.S.

Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford,

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released)

Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment participate in a training lane on

Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 3. The training lane was in support

of the FOX Broadcasting’s

MasterChef filming, where the

contestants needed to feed 500

Troopers of the 11th ACR. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public

Affairs / Released)

Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F.

Chandler III, the Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army, visits

with Troopers of the 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment of Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 20. He wanted to meet the Soldiers

responsible for training the U.S. Army and ensure they were being

taken care of. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released)

Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

Photos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom and

Sgt. Erik A. Thurman

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment bid farewell to Command Sgt.

Maj. Philip N. Simpao and welcomed Command Sgt.

Maj. Carl A. Ashmead during a March 12, Change of

Responsibility ceremony here.

The event signified the transfer of authority

between Simpao and Ashmead by passing the Non-

Commissioned Officer’s Saber, making Ashmead the

21st Command Sgt. Major of the 11th ACR.

Simpao, will assume responsibility of the 1st

Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment at Fort Drum, N.Y.

“The lessons that I have learned, and the

gratitude that fills my heart for being able to wear

the Blackhorse patch and sucking in the dust of the

National Training Center each day is immeasurable,”

said Simpao. “I can only hope that my time in the

saddle has been as fruitful for both the NTC and the

Regiment as it has been for me and my wife Rose.”

Simpao served the Regiment and the

Troopers for more than three years, initially as the

2nd Squadron Command Sgt. Maj. before being

Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip N. Simpao, out-going 11th ACR Command Sgt. Maj. (Left), Col. John L. Ward, Regiment Commander (Center), and Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, the 21st Regiment Command Sgt. Maj. (Right), during a March 12, Change of Responsibility on Fort Irwin, Calif. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs /

Released)

Passing the Saber

continued by saying that Ashmead is just the man for

the job and that he is looking forward to serving with

him in the months ahead.

“Words cannot express that absolute feeling

of pride and joy that I have (in) becoming the newest

member of this historic Regiment,” said Ashmead.

“This Regiment does not exist to give me a position.

My position exists to give every Trooper; Family

Member; and Civilian Employee of this Regiment

my best every day, to ensure that they are successful;

this unit is successful; and our Army is successful.

I am available to every member of this Regiment,

regardless of rank or situation, 24 hours-a-day from

this time forth.”

assigned as the Regimental Command Sgt. Major.

“I knew that Command Sgt. Maj. Simpao

would always be there for the Troopers if they were

ever in need or in trouble,” said Col. John L. Ward,

the Commander of the 11th ACR. “Due

to this dedication, I knew that he would be the

person that I called upon to serve in place of

Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen J. Travers when he was

called to become the Post Command Sgt. Maj. of

NTC.”

Just like any great organization, there is

another Trooper standing in the wings waiting to

pick up that guidon and run with it, said Ward. He

Incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, 21st Command Sgt. Maj. of the 11th ACR, receives the Non-Commissioned Officer’s Saber from Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR, during a March 12, Change of Responsibility on Fort Irwin, Calif. (U.S.

Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Cavalry Kids Earn Their

Spurs

Sgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment held its annual Children’s

Spur Ride, April 18. The Children’s Spur Ride is

an event that gives children of Cavalry Troopers

a chance to earn their Spurs through obstacles

and kid-friendly versions of what their Army

parents endure to earn theirs.

“It’s important because it shows that

we are Family oriented and we appreciate the

sacrifices Family Members make, especially with

the back-to-back training rotations,” said Sgt. 1st

Class Anaki Spence, an organizer of the event,

assigned to the Regimental Support Squadron,

11th ACR. “It’s a chance to bring Family

1st Sgt. Frederick Batiste, the 1st Sgt. for Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads the children of the Blackhorse

Regiment in a modified Physical Fitness program during the Child Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to

the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo

by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Children of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment crawl through a mud pit as part of the Child Spur

Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit

would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Members and the Soldiers together to have fun,

let their hair down and enjoy the history of the

Regiment.”

The event included first aid, target practice

with water guns, dodging water balloons from

behind sand bags, navigating a mud pit, and even

taking a ride in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle.

The Spur Ride is a Cavalry Tradition

dating back to its ancestry when Troopers

were mounted on horseback. A Trooper new

to the unit was known as a shaved tail; named

for having been given a horse that’s had its tail

shaved. This told riders around him that they

were not yet proficient at riding. By the time

“My favorite part was riding

in the tank,” said Adam Conard, a

participant in the spur ride. He said

A child of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment ap-plies camouflage paint to her mother’s face during the Child Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The

Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Ar-mored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

A child of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment receives her spur after completing the Child Spur

Ride of Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for

the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

he enjoyed the water balloons and the mud pit

but since it was his first time, the tank ride was

hard to beat.

“I had fun and so did all the kids,” said

Kelly Conard, Adam’s mother, an Army Spouse

at Fort Irwin. She explained that with Fort Irwin

being so small, it’s good for the unit to give kids

a chance to interact with one another outside of

school and to get a small taste of what Troopers

do. “I did the Spouse’s Spur Ride last year and I

like how these events bring everyone together.”

A Chaplain

Protecting His FlockStory by Capt. David Miller

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – As a two time

Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom,

the 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment’s Chaplain, Capt. Chuck Lowman,

is known to many as a motivated pastor who

goes on missions with the same Soldiers

whom he counsels.

Chaplain Lowman explains, “Though

I am not authorized to fire a military weapon

(because of the specific occupation), I have

a great opportunity to help Soldiers achieve

their mission, whether I am helping them

cross concertina wire or just being another

set of eyes, I can be there to support them

in their military mission, with the hope that

they can come to me for help with their

personal mission.”

Lowman has built a reputation across

his unit as a Chaplain that leads by example.

Along with going on missions, he executes

Chaplain (Capt.) Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, stands atop of a Combat Outpost as his Troopers prepare for their next mission. “Though

I am not authorized to fire a military weapon (because of the specific occupation), I have a great opportunity to help Soldiers achieve their mission, whether I am helping them cross concertina wire or just being another set of eyes, I can be there to support them in their military mission, with the

hopes that they can come to me for help with their personal mission,” said Lowman. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

/ Released)

foot marches, attends events, etc. earning

Troopers’ trust to be a positive influence on

their lives. I want the Troopers to see me as

a man who is cut from the same cloth, said

Lowman.

Sgt. Joel Strauch, the 1/11th ACR

Non-Commissioned Officer of the Month,

spoke of one memory in particular, “Chaplain

Lowman actually laid down his body on

an obstacle for us to run across. Actions

like this make him seem more human and

approachable.”

Chaplain Lowman spoke of the biblical

Prophet Ezekiel who had a calling to watch

over the people of Israel. Lowman explains,

“I feel that these Soldiers are my flock. I am

charged with watching over them spiritually,

emotionally, and physically. This is my duty as

their Chaplain and my calling from the Lord.”

Chaplain Lowman’s unorthodox

approach has made it possible for him to help

hundreds of Soldiers and their families.

Chaplain (Capt.) Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, cares for his

child during a Cavalry Show on Fort Irwin, Calif. Chap. Lowman cares for his Military family with the same love and dedication that he shows his Personal Family. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Sgt. David N. BeckstromSgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – A total of 83, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Troopers;

earned their spurs in a Feb. 2 thru 3, Spur Ride. Although the Cavalry no longer use horses tactically, the Spur Ride remains a long-standing tradition adopted by the U.S. Cavalry, dating back to the days of knighthood. While Spur Rides vary from unit to unit, the traditions all center on a heritage of horsemanship. First Lt. Andrew S. Roland, of Jacksonville, Fla., assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1/11 ACR, served as the Officer-in-Charge of the planning and execution of the Squadron’s Spur Ride. Roland explained that candidates are referred to as ‘Shaved Tails,’ a name that is derived from the days when Cavalrymen were mounted on horsback. Spurs were not given to Troopers new to riding since a new rider’s lack of experience could present a danger to those around him. When a new Trooper arrived to their unit and received their horse, the mare’s tail would be shaved. The bare tail warned other Cavalrymen that the rider was inexperienced in handling the animal and room should be given for him to maneuver. “By the time the horse was able to grow out its tail, the Trooper was considered trained and that horse was able to join him in combat from then on,” Roland said. Spur Rides are seen as a rite-of-passage. They are not what some often confuse with a form of hazing. Hazing typically involves punishment as a rite-of-passage with no defined purpose; a Spur Ride creates a controlled stressful environment for

candidates in order to promote teamwork - a crucial necessity for all U.S. Army training and more importantly, any battlefield. The 1/11 ACR Spur Ride began after sundown with a Feb. 2, road march to Fort Irwin’s training area. There, candidates separated into squads before rotating through several training stations involving everything from dismounted patrols to using hand grenades. Only after a Shaved Tail had proven proficiency could they road-march back from the training area to be awarded their Spurs. From then on, Troopers could wear the coveted Spurs on their boots during military ceremonies. “The ability to participate in this Spur Ride has given me a tie to the past,” said Staff Sgt. John A. Haynesworth, a newly-made Spur Holder assigned to HHT, 1/11ACR. “Without tradition there is no Army. We pull so much from our past that we would not be who we are now without it.” “I wanted to prove to myself that I know what I am doing, to show that I can do this and uphold the legacy of the Cavalry,” said Pvt. 1st Class Ryan C. Abbott, a newly-made Spur Holder assigned to HHT, 1/11 ACR. Traditions are passed down from one generation to the next, whether it is being told or shown to the new holders. “Being able to pass the knowledge that I had gained when I went through the Spur Ride makes me feel like I am a mentor to the new Candidates,” said Spc. Caleb J. Smith, a Spur Ride Lane Walker from HHT, 1/11 ACR. “It makes me feel good that I was able to show these new Spur hopefuls the ropes. Once they are inducted into the Order of the Spur, there will be a feeling of camaraderie amongst us that wasn’t there before,” Smith said. “This Tradition not only ties us together but it links us to the past.”

IronHorse Accepts

Spur Ride Challenge

A Trooper assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in a hand grenade lane during a Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 2-3. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where a new Trooper is given

a horse with a shaved tail, signifying to the other Troopers to give this horse and rider extra space during train-ing and battle. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs/

Released)

A Trooper assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in a hand grenade lane during a Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 2-3. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where a

new Trooper is given a horse with a shaved tail, signi-fying to the other Troopers to give this horse and rid-er extra space during training and battle. (U.S. Army

photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs/Released)

After completing the Spur Ride, Troopers assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment are presented

their Spurs and inducted into the Order of the Spur in front of their entire Squadron on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb 3. The Order of the Spur is a long-standing tradition in the Cavalry; it symbolizes the rite-of-passage new troopers

need to go through to be considered proficient with their mounts, sabers, and weapons. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs/Released)

Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

Photos by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Children and Families of

the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and Fort

Irwin attended an Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the

Protestant Woman of the Chapel, April 19.

“I am very grateful to the community

for showing up,” said Kassy B. Sublett, the event

organizer and PWOC Community Outreach

Coordinator. “I just wanted to give our kids a chance

to enjoy themselves and meet with other kids outside

of school.”

Children from all over the community were

eager for the event to begin. When the hunt started

they rushed the field with much laughter and many

smiles.

“Seeing all the kids having fun and being

happy today, especially my friends, was awesome,”

said Jennie A. Seitz, a Fort Irwin 1st grader.

More than 500 Children and Family members

participated in the Easter Egg Hunt. The event was

broken into three age groups; each having eggs

hidden in increasingly difficult areas.

“I had four children participating today,”

said Capt. Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain for 1st

Easter Eggs were hidden for the children of Fort Irwin during the Community Easter Egg Hunt on April 19, here. The eggs were donated by the Protestant Women of the Chapel, Catholic Women of the Chapel, Awanas,

and members of the Fort Irwin Community. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Hunting for the Eggs

Squadron, 11th ACR. “After the hunt started my kids

didn’t want to stop searching. They kept looking well

after the last egg was found.”

The Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment work in the field for 14 days straight each

month to train the rest of the Army. This type of

training cycle can take a toll on family life.

“Being a part of the community is crucial to

make Fort Irwin work,” said Lowman. With Troopers

out training for weeks on end, the installation can feel

that much more isolated. Participating in events like

these can go a long way in helping Families

develop a stronger hometown feeling.

Children of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and Fort Irwin participate in an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19, here. The event was sponsored by the Protestant Women of the Chapel with donations coming from members of the Fort Irwin community. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released)

Different groups in the community sponsor

events like this throughout the year to encourage the

community to get together and build camaraderie.

“The community of Fort Irwin really came

together to put this Easter Egg Hunt on,” said Sublet.

“The PWOC donated 5,000 eggs and candies as well

as more donations from the Catholic Women of

the Chapel, Awanas and members of the Fort Irwin

community.”

Fort Irwin Teacher Wins New CarStory and photos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

VICTORVILLE, Calif. – A Fort Irwin Elementary School Teacher won a car for

having perfect attendance during the 2013-2014 school year. The teacher learned of her prize at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 17.

It’s a Gas to Go to Class is a Program that encourages teachers and high school students in Southern California to strive for

perfect attendance during the school year by offering prizes and incentives for staying in class. Victorville Motors, the California Teachers Association, and other sponsors donated several prizes. The biggest were three 2014 Dodge Darts.

“I never thought that I would be part of the semifinalists, much less the actual winner of the car,” said Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade Teacher at Lewis Elementary, a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. “I am very grateful to the different

Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade teacher at Lewis Elementary on Fort Irwin, Calif., a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, poses with the Victorville Motors Team after she won a new 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2014 It’s a Gas to Go to Class event on May 17. The Program encourages teachers and high school students to strive for perfect attendance by offering prizes

and incentives. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Fort Irwin Teacher

Wins New Car

organizations that have made this possible.”

Image Source of California enabled the teachers to participate in the event this year by donating one of the cars.

“We feel that the teachers don’t get the

“I do this so that my students

could have the highest quality education possible, and to motivate

recognition that they deserve for all their hard work,” said Kendall Goslee, an Accounts Manager with Image Source. “Education is crucial for the future and the teachers are the ones giving it.”

More than 1500 students and teachers, had perfect attendance this year; the highest eligibility since the program’s inception in 2011.

Weaver proved her dedication to her class by commuting an hour to Fort Irwin every day to keep her perfect attendance record.

our community’s children to do their best.” said Weaver.

Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade teacher at Lewis Elementary on Fort Irwin, Calif., a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Ar-mored Cavalry Regiment, is excited after she won a new 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2014 It’s a Gas to Go to Class program on May 17. The

Program encourages teachers and high school students to strive for perfect attendance by offering prizes and incentives. (U.S. Armyphoto by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

This event was about the education of the next generation. By having incentives for attendance, business owners of Southern California are helping mold young minds into the citizens we need tomorrow.

“This program increases graduation rates

and lowers truancy numbers while also getting the children more engaged in their learning,” said Tim Watts, the Chief Operating Officer of Victorville Motors.

Join us in congratulating Staff Sgt. Darryl Jewel, with2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, for

finishing 1st in his age division and 65th overall at the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon. The

Half-Marathon celebrates the unique quality of SanDiego and helps local Charities.

Troopers of the Reg-iment participated in the 55th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade in Torrence,

Calif. May17, 2014. The 11th ACR was represented by the Regiment's Horse Detachment, a platoon of

combat Troopers, an M1-A Abrams Tank, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle and an M88 Hercules Recovery

Vehicle. The following day, the Reg-iment displayed their vehicles for

citizens to see up close and personal. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip N. Simpao, former Command Sgt. Maj. of the 11th Armored Cav-alry Regiment, and Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the

11th ACR, fire pistols into the Ceremonial Grog at the 11th

ACR Regimental Ball at South Point Hotel and Casino in Las

Vegas, March 7. They spiked the punch with the ‘Fighting Spirit and Desire to Win’. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,

11th Armored Cavalry Regi-ment, Public Affairs / Released)

Troopers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Horse

Detachment held a Stable Days event on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 14. The event allowed commu-nity members to see a histori-cally accurate reenactment of

Cavalry skill and tactics as well as hay-rides, bounce houses and a barbeque. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released)

Story and photos by

Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

VICTORVILLE, Calif. –

Soldiers from the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment and

the Victorville Recruiting Center

participated in the It’s a Gas to

Go to Class celebration at the San

Bernardino County Fairgrounds,

here May 18.

The event was a reward

for high school students with

perfect attendance. The Soldiers

participated to show their support

for their accomplishments and

to discuss what the Military has

to offer for careers. They also

displayed an M2A3 Bradley

Fighting Vehicle and a Humvee.

“We wanted to build a

rapport with these children and

support them in their decisions

to stay in school,” said Staff Sgt.

Rodrigo A. Pimentel, a Recruiter

with the Victorville Recruiting

Center. “We also wanted to show

these bright young children that

the Military is a viable option once

they graduate.”

Soldiers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and the Victorville Recruiting Center spoke with potential recruits at the It’s a Gas to Go to Class event held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 18. While they

were there, they spoke with potential Army recruits about what the Army has to offer for careers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office / Released)

Bright New

Recruits

With the drawdown of

the Military, it is becoming more

difficult to join. By attending

events that promote good

citizenship, the Army can look for

new recruits with high standards.

“These are the type

of new recruits the Army is

looking for,” said Sgt. William

D. Hardcastle, also a Recruiter

with the Victorville Recruiting

Center. “They have already proven

that they want to be prosperous

members of the community by

staying in school and taking an

active part in their future.”

Speaking with Soldiers,

other than recruiters, allowed for a

broader spectrum of Army jobs to

be explored.

“I was able to talk to

possible recruits about what I do

in the Army and the different types

of vehicles I have used,” said Pvt.

Marcos A. Chavira, a rifleman with

A troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR.

“I was able to show them what it

takes to start a career in the Army.”

Drawing in potential

recruits has been a challenge; by

bringing the vehicles it helped get

past this hurdle.

“I first saw the big tank

while I was out here and thought

that it was really cool,” said Daniel

Jefferies, a future recruit. “When

I came over to the tank I started

talking to the Soldiers about what

they do and how I could do it too.”

Keeping young minds,

which want to join the Army and

serve their country, informed

allows the future generation of

Soldiers to be the best they can be.

Soldiers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment pose in front of an M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle at the It’s a Gas to Go to Class event held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 18. While they were there, they spoke with potential Army recruits about what the Army has to offer for careers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David

N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office / Released)

Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The

11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment, or Blackhorse

Regiment, hosted its spouses,

adult family members and the

Fort Irwin Middle School’s

7th grade class in a tour of the

training area here May 16.

The tour provided

an opportunity for them to

experience what their Soldiers

go through during the training

rotations.

“Coming out on a tour

like this gave me the chance to

truly appreciate the amount of

work that goes into a rotation,”

said Keele Elder, a spouse within

the Blackhorse Regiment. “I didn’t

understand just how complex this

training can be. I used to think that

the soldiers look at the Box like a

place to play, but I now see that it is

real and a lot of hard work.”

The Blackhorse Troopers

conducted a training event where

they reacted to insurgent gun

fire, rocket propelled grenades,

and improvised explosive

devices to simulate real combat.

Pyrotechnics were used to add a

higher level of realness.

The Blackhorse Regiment

uses these tactics to train visiting

units here to ensure that they

are prepared for worldwide

deployments.

“I have been a part of the

training lane before and I wanted

Col. John L. Ward, the Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, poses for a photo with the family members who attended the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of the training area and training

lane helps the family members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Experiencing the Box

Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch as simulated improvised explosive device is detonated during the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of the training area and training lane helps the family

members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

Children of the Fort Irwin Middle Schools

7th grade class pose for a group photo during their class fieldtrip to

the training area, locally known as The Box, on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The fieldtrip of the training area helps the

family members to understand what their

service members go through on a daily basis

during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo

by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs

/ Released)

my wife to see what it is

that I do out here,” said

Spc. Coty Washington,

a medic with Headquarters

and Headquarters Troop 1st

Squadron, 11th ACR. “Since

she only gets to hear about the

training area from me, she never

gets to see the big picture.”

While the Regiment put

on the demonstration for the

spouses, the 7th grade children

within the Regiment were also

seeing what The Box entails.

“These kids know that

their parents are working in

The Box, but they don’t really

understand what is going on out

here,” said Katherine Hamor, a

Language Arts Teacher at Fort

Irwin Middle School. “This is a

chance for them to see what is

happening and to connect to it and

their parents better.”

During their fieldtrip, the

7th graders were able to fire an

array of military weapons, explore

the tactical vehicles, and get a feel

for life within the box.

“I really liked the tanks

because my dad fixes them and so I

get to be around a lot of the parts,”

said Alexia Bostic, a 7th grader at

Fort Irwin Middle School. “I think

it is cool to see them when they

are all put together.” The regiment

hosted the tours, so that the Fort

Irwin community could come

together.

“We wanted to put this

Box Tour together to keep our

families and spouses together in

a more intimate setting to show

them what their Soldiers end up

doing as we go out in support of

the rotations,” said Col. John L.

Ward, Commander of the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment. “This

also gives them a more regimental

centered discussion as we are out

in the Box.”

Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch a training lane during the Spouse and Family Box

Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of

the training area and training lane helps the

family members to understand what their

service members go through on a daily basis during the

rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N.

Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public

Affairs / Released)

Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch as people playing local nationals of the fictitious country Donovia, try to sell their wares prior to a training lane during the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released) (above) A child of the

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment poses for a photo during the 7th grade class fieldtrip to the training area, locally known as The Box.The fieldtrip to the training area helps the family members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs / Released) (below)

By 1st. Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers of the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment (11th ACR) train

the Total Army Force for war every day, and that hard

charging mentality doesn’t change off-duty. Troopers

work vigorously to make sure they provide the best

training, then play hard once that mission has been

accomplished. This was the mindset of Chief Warrant

Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez of the 11th ACR as he

rode his dirt bike on a motorcross track in Silver

Lakes, Calif. The 29 year veteran rider was warming

up with a few jumps when the inevitable happened;

he crashed.

“I was doing a warm up jump, known as a

triple,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez of

Maintenance Troop. “But I didn’t calculate my speed

right and hit the backside of a landing.”

The accident resulted in two broken ankles, a

broken wrist and broken nose, but the damage could

have been much worse. Chief Warrant Officer 2

Martinez did everything right safety wise.

One safeguard in particular, the wearing all

of his Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), saved

his life. Much of his riding gear was damaged beyond

repair as a result of hitting the ground head first.

“PPE is the last barrier of defense between you and

the ground,” said Salvador D. Adame, the 11th ACR

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez flies through the air after launching off a jump. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez is assigned to Maintenance Troop, Regimental Sustainment Squadron of the 11th Armored Cavalry

Regiment. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released)

Gear Up- PPE Saves the Day

Safety and Occupational Health Manager. “The Army

has three parts to its motorcycle safety program:

education, enforcement, and equipment.”

It was his equipment that saved the day for

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez, but that is only

one of the aspects of motorcycle safety. Army posts

offer all-terrain vehicle and dirt bike riding course

several times a year. They also conduct safety-check

rides through the Motorcycle Mentorship Program

to reinforce riding skills and inspect bikes for short

comings. These efforts aim to reduce the amount

of motorcycle related accidents and increase safety

awareness.

While his injuries were serious, Chief

Warrant Officer 2 Martinez was wearing his helmet,

chest protector, gloves, goggles, riding pants, knee

protectors, shin protectors and boots. As a result of

taking safety precautions, PPE saved his life.

“Due to the nature of our mission and being

out in the middle of the desert, we take

safety precautions extra serious here,” said Col. John

L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR.

The 11th ACR earned the 2013 Secretary of

the Army and Chief of Staff ’s Army Award for Safety

Excellence.

The helmet Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez was wearing during his accident. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released) (left) Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez after surgery at the

hospital for his injuries. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released) (right)

King of Battle: The 1-144 Field

Artillery Rocks the NTCBy 1st Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald

Fort Irwin, Calif. – In May an unstoppable force returned to fight with the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) at Fort Irwin, the King of Battle. During a decisive action rotation against 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, the 1-144 Field Artillery (FA) “Mustangs” took to the field with their active counterparts in the 11th ACR. Supporting 1-11 ACR “Ironhorse,” the Mustangs put their guns to good use, reaching out and causing havoc amongst the 2nd Brigade.

“The training and preparation we did before we went out to the box prepared us to be successful during the rotation,” said Sgt. Steve Eckenrod, a cannon crew member from Las Vegas, NV who works as a project manager for an electric company.

Working for the first time in support of the 11th ACR during rotational operations was a unique experience for the Soldiers of the 1-144. While the unit frequents Fort Irwin for live fire exercises, it quickly discovered that working in a replicated combat setting required a wholly different skill set. Using the M109 Paladin platform for fires, the 1-144 were quickly able to dust-off the cobwebs and engage targets ranging from dismounted infantry, armored vehicles, and opposing artillery; all while avoiding counter-fires.

“The experience of troubleshooting and on the spot corrections brought everyone

together to work as a team,” said Sgt. 1st Class David Fernandez, the Smoke Platoon Sergeant from Los Angeles, California who works as a Field Supervisor for the water department in the city of Monterey Park, CA. “Coming to Fort Irwin to shoot, move and communicate is something that as a guard force, we don’t train in very often. Being able to utilize those skills was invaluable.”

While it is the purpose of the National Training Center to prepare units for war, for the Soldiers of the 1-144, there is another reason why they come to train. As one of the few units in the Army that has Active and National Guard components, the 11th ACR holds a special place in the heart of its National Guard members. Wearing the Blackhorse patch is a symbol of pride, and for them it means that they are an integral part of the 11th ACR family.

“I’ve been with two other National Guard units, and with them I felt like we were by ourselves,” said 1st Lt. Clifford Roland, an Executive Officer from Fresno, CA who works as an assistant loss prevention manager. “It feels amazing to have the Regiment’s full support; it is both the support we get and the history of the unit that set the Blackhorse apart.”

With the support of the 1-144, the 11th ACR continues to train rotational units for war. Utilizing all available assets at their disposal, the Regiment will continue to give the best fight the Army has to offer, bringing the King of Battle to the RTU’s doorstep.

Troopers with the 1-144 Field Artillery, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment conducts a convey during the 14-07 Rotation on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 25. This was part of the National Guard unit’s two-week annual training. (U.S.

Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)

Troopers with the 1-144 Field Artillery,

11th Armored Cavalry Regiment

fires a volley of simulated rounds during the 14-07 Rotation on Fort

Irwin, Calif., May 28. This was part of the National Guard

unit’s two-week annual training.

(U.S. Army photo by 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)

Blackhorse takes on MasterChef

Brigadier General Theodore Martin, Fort Irwin Commander and Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, discuss the food served to them

by contestants of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’, during the filming of the show’s season premier, at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,

Public Affairs)

Blackhorse takes on MasterChef

Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

Photos by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers of the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment were featured in an

episode of MasterChef here Feb. 3, which aired June

9onFox.

Twenty contestants from the show

participatedintheseason’sfirstteamchallenge;feed

500 Soldiers, the largest number of diners the show

has fed.

Priortotheteamsseeingthefieldkitchen,

they were convoyed through the National Training

Center’s combat training area where Blackhorse

troopers defended the contestants from improvised

explosive devices and insurgents attacking from all

directions.

After the training lane, the two teams created

separate meals for the Soldiers; grilled pork chops

and barbecued chicken breast.

“The teams were relatively fast in their

production, especially when you consider the

pressure and disorientation which they had gone

through,” said Spc. Zachary W. Tredo, a training

room clerk for B Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR. “I

went to culinary school before joining the Military

and could relate to the pressure they were feeling

from the time crunch.”

When the time limit was reached, dozens

of tanks, a couple of helicopters, and 500 Soldiers

swarmed the cooking area in preparation for the meal

to come.

“When everyone was converging on the

contestants, it was overwhelming,” said Spc. Harold

L. Braynon, a communications specialist with

B Troop, 1/11 ACR. “The detailed planning and

execution was interesting to watch.”

As the time came to vote for the winner of

the challenge, the Soldiers made a formation in front

of the team who’s food they preferred.

“When I gave the command to fall-in,

severalSoldiersrushedtomysideofthefield,”said

Staff Sgt. Casey M. Mobley, the Blue Teams Non-

CommissionedOfficer-in-Charge.“Eventhoughthe

red team won in the end, I still had a fun time and

believe that the Blue Team did better.”

Fox Broadcasting Company worked with

Fort Irwin for this event and the “Fox in the Box”

Thanksgiving event last year in support of the

Military and in an effort to boost morale.

“Blackhorse provided a majority of the

Soldiers for the dining and voting portion of the

challenge as well as providing the operational

environment for the shoot,” said Col. John L. Ward,

the Commander of the 11th ACR. “I believe that the

Soldiers were excited that the show recognized their

efforts and contributions as we serve at this isolated

installation.”

Gordon Ramsey, host of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’; shouts at cast members as they strug-gle to feed nearly 500 Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during the filming of the show’s show’s season premier, at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by

U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs)

Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment evaluate food served to them by contestants of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’, during the filming of the show’s season premier, at the National Training

Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs)

By 1st Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald

Fort Irwin, Calif. – In the 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment (11th

ACR) at Fort Irwin, tradition and history

are held in the highest regard. One such

tradition is the Spur Ride; a Cavalry-

specific esprit de corps event undertaken

by Armor units of the U.S. Army as a

rite of passage for their Soldiers. Though

focused on the history and principles

of the Cavalry, any Soldier in an Armor

or Cavalry unit can participate. For the

Regimental Support Squadron (RSS) of

the 11th ACR, the tradition of the Spur

Ride continues, giving Troopers a chance

to earn their silver spurs.

Troopers of the Regimental Support Squadron do push-ups during the RSS Spur Ride. (Photo by Spc. Jacob Bayles, Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 5, 2014)

An Army Cavalry Tradition:

The RSS Spur Ride

Before those silver spurs are earned,

spur candidates are known as shave-tails.

This concept comes from the days of horse

cavalry. New Troopers who arrived at

their assignments were given a horse with

a shaved tail. This was to let others know

to give extra space to the rider who was

still learning to ride. Only after being able

to demonstrate their abilities were they

allowed to let the horse’s tail grow out and

wear spurs.

“I liked how it was made unique

to the 11th ACR,” said 1st Sgt. Jamie

Brannan, the Vanguard Military

Intelligence Company First Sergeant

from the RSS and Binghamton, New York

1st Sgt. Jamie Brannan of the Military Intelligence Company (MICO), of the Regimental Support

Squadron, 11 ACR sits on a horse as she becomes a Spur Holder. (Photo by 1st Lt. Evan FitzGerald,

Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014)

Troopers of the Regimental Support Squadron crawl along the ground with their mascot during the RSS Spur Ride. (Photo by Spc. Jacob Bayles, Regimental

Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 5, 2014)

native. “I knew about some of the

events, but I didn’t know that I

was going to be asked to saddle a

Troopers of the Regimental

Support Squadron, 11 ACR in the

front leaning rest after earning their silver spurs. (Photo

by 1st Lt. Evan FitzGerald, Regimental

Support Squadron, 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014

horse.”

During the Spur Ride, shave-tails

are broken down into teams of four to

seven, to demonstrate their abilities

to perform numerous Cavalry related

tasks. One such task in the 11th ACR is

saddling a horse. Long marches, physical

fitness tests, obstacles courses, causality

care, radio etiquette and weapon skills

are just a few of the areas in which shave-

tails must prove their worth. While some

events are completed at the individual

level, a majority are team events. The

most important event is the Spur board:

a test of both team and individual resolve

and knowledge of 11th ACR and Cavalry

history and traditions.

“The board was surprising, because

no one knew what to really expect,”

said Maj. Antoine Rhodes, the 11th

ACR Support Operations Officer from

Compton, California. “You do all these

events, but the board is the make or

break part. We had to stay together to be

successful.”

Staying together is the core concept

Lt. Col. Bart Herndon, the 11 ACR Regimental Chaplain gives a

word of thanks and congratulations to

all the Spur Holders who

earned their Spurs during the RSS

Spur Ride. (Photo by 1st Lt. Evan

FitzGerald, Regimental

Support Squadron, 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014)

of the Spur Ride, with many of the events

requiring team members to put their

trust in one another to accomplish tasks.

During the ride, no shave-tails are allowed

to wear any visible rank. This equality

results in Soldiers of all ranks working

together without any knowledge of

hierarchy to get the job done. A spirit of

camaraderie is formed as shave-tail team

members quickly learn that they need to

rely on each other to be successful.

“We would keep our spirits up by

telling jokes to one another to keep our

minds off the painful parts,” said Spc.

Matthew Stevenson, a Signal Support

Systems Specialist for the RSS from San

Antonio, Texas. “But no matter how hard

it got, the task was always overcome with

teamwork.”

After completing the Spur Ride,

which often lasts more than 24 straight

hours, shave-tails become spur holders.

In push-up position with their feet on

hay bales, silver spurs are put on Army

boots, a visual representation of a change

in status. The new spur holders are invited

to take part in future rides, acting as

team guides or task leaders. Twice a year

the RSS conducts a Spur Ride, fostering

teamwork, building pride and recounting

the history and traditions of the 11th ACR

and U.S. Cavalry.

Story by Karen Svea JohnsonPhotos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom

LAS VEGAS – During the 1st week of March, the giant video display coaxing people off Interstate

15 to visit the South Point Casino looked like others along the highway and the Strip, flashing ads for restaurants and loose slots and nightly entertainment alternating with giant photos of NASCAR heroes suited up for the big weekend at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. But one image was sure to catch the eye of even the most ad-weary visitor: film of horse-mounted exercises unspooled under an invitation to Cavalry Days, advertising a meet-and-greet at noon followed by a presentation at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7.

Was this some historical reenactment? A test-run of the casino’s newest entertainment offering? A fantasy camp for horse-soldier wannabes? Nope, this was the real deal. The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., includes one of four remaining Cavalry units in the U.S. Military. Its members were at the South Point Arena to keep history alive, promote and recruit for the Army – and, when the day was over, to celebrate the year’s achievements at their annual ball.

Although horse-mounted units have not been part of battle since the early 20th century, contemporary Cavalry units still serve an important role in the military. The 11th ACRs Horse

Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in the Cavalry Days at the South Point Area and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate

display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

U.S. Cavalry Advancing the Tradition

Detachment states its mission on its website: The Fort Irwin 11th Cavalry Regiment Mounted Color Guard performs at official ceremonies, unofficial functions and regional community events, is a living and historically accurate depiction of the mounted Cavalry Soldier and preserves the Regiment’s heritage in order to provide a regional representation of the 11th CR, Fort Irwin, and the United States Army, promote goodwill in community relations, support Army recruiting and community outreach objectives. The event on March 7 met all those objectives. Dozens of people of all ages streamed down the corridors that lead from the casino, past the hotel entrance, and into the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center. Currently under expansion, the center now houses an impressive 1,200 climate-

controlled stalls and an arena that plays host to some unique events. Sgt. Wyckoff and his mount were 1st into the arena for the high-noon meet-and-greet. Although the arena was dimly lit for folks hoping to take pictures, the lights shining off white walls and red seating, and the echoes of excited spectators, seemed to surprise the pair, so accustomed to their Mojave Desert home. But they had work to do, and set to it like the Soldiers they are. As more horses and cavalry members entered the arena, the civilians who had filled the stands flooded the arena, obviously thrilled to get up close and personal with the mounts. The crowd was exuberant, to say the least. At 1st, babies were handed over to Soldiers who placed

Spectators of the Cavalry Days event held at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center give a standing ovation to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Horse Detachment March 7. The Horse Det. recreated a histor-ically accurate display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th

Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

them atop regulation U.S. saddles on Army-trained steeds so proud parents could snap photos. Not to be outdone, teenagers started scrambling into stirrups

Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment trot around the arena at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate display of

mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)

for their own photo ops. Then came adults who hadn’t been on a horse in 15 years… and 40 pounds. And, finally, came the novices, who had seen how calmly the horses had submitted to all the earlier indignities and decided to dish out some of their own.

This might not have been an everyday task, but there horses have to be ready for anything, at any time. The Soldiers and their mounts are part of the National Training Center’s Opposing Force and as such undergo rigorous training to meet challenges calmly and quickly.

In a time of tight budgets, the 11th ACR can’t afford to buy or even breed horses for the program. “This one’s a mustang.” Sgt. Wyckoff said at the meet-and-greet. “They’re all different types from all different backgrounds.” It’s an all-volunteer Army, too, so Cavalry recruits are also from a wide range of backgrounds. Wyckoff, who is a Sacramento native, said, “I had zero experience, but I was always interested in horses. So when I learned about this, I decided it was the unit for me.” Each cavalry recruit partners with his or her horse for two years, and then moves to a new discipline. The horses, however, remain with the Regiment and are used to break in new recruits who arrive at Fort Irwin.

Lt. Col. Scott McFarland, a Squadron

Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment charge across the arena at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored

Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released

Commander, explained, “We depend on donated horses, exclusively. We learn as much as we can about horses – how gentle are they? How easy to train, to get along with? We have to trust what the owners and trainers tell us, ‘cause we can only be so picky. But when we find the right kind, no matter where they came from, they’ll do what we want.”

After people returned to their seats, the arena was groomed, and then a half-dozen Horse Detachment Troopers and their mounts presented colors. The demonstrations were accompanied by the cowboy songs “I Wanna Be in the Cavalry (If I Must Go off to War)” and “Horse Soldier!” The most excited of the equine performers was a cute little OTTB (off-track Thoroughbred) who shared the spotlight with a couple mustangs and some mixed-breeds.

The demonstrations showcased

Drill and Ceremony, jumping, and saber handling. Obstacles set up around the arena included jumps strung with balloons and fitted with brass rings, targets for the light-saber charges. A couple of the steady mounts charged as their riders fired rifles from their backs, and they hardly turned a hair. A narrator offered some history and explained what services the Horse Detachment provides, helping spectators understand how old supports the new in today’s Army. When the mounted troops left the arena, spectators filed out past a U.S. Army recruitment table. More than a few stopped to pick up literature and talk with Army representatives. Not all will end up in the service – even fewer will serve in the Cavalry – but the Cavalry Days event opened some eyes and, perhaps, some doors.

Fort Irwin Outdoor Recreation hosted its 8th annual Tour de Irwin 41 mile bicycle race, May 10. With a steady head wind at 12 miles per hour, the contestants had to earn each mile. Chief Warrant Officer 4 Matthew T. Gibbs, a Soldier with the Fort Irwin Logistics Support Team, finished1st overall, his wife Warrant Officer 1 Karri A. Gibbs, an 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Ammo Technician, placing 3rd in the women’s event. Capt. Jacob T. Randles also participated in the event, placing 2nd in the

Men’s race.

Capt. Jacob D. Randles11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Engineer

Fort Irwin, Calif. – The 58th Engineers Carpentry Shop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, replaced

a single memorial at Wickam Park, located on the corner of B Avenue and 5th Street, which paid homage to 21 Troopers lost during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

InAugust2013,aflashfloodracedthrough

the National Training Center (NTC) and damaged the memorial. Originally, the memorial was comprised of plantedtrees;eachwithaplaqueaffixedtoastone.Betweenthefloodandtheharshdesertenvironmentthe stones and plaques were in poor shape.

“It was an honor to design and construct the memorials for the park,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph Pritchard, an engineer with the Carpentry Shop. “There is a part of me that cries for fallen comrades that lose their life for the greater cause.

Wickam Park Repaired

Staff Sgt. Prichard, a Regimental Engineer with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, works a cement mixer in preparations of creating a post for the new memorial for the Fallen Blackhorse Troopers of Operation Iraqi Free-dom on Fort Irwin, Calif. This memorial is to honor the Troopers who have paid the ultimate price on the battle-

field for their country. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment)

The opportunity to be a part of this project was a humbling experience.”

The new displays are mounted on the stands. Several designs were developed and vetted before the decision was made to construct a wooden plaque protected from the elements by wooden framed plexi-glass.

The engineers ran into some obstacles that slowed the project down. The main challenges were the procurement of material and obtaining permissions from the Department of Public Works. The engineers completed the restoration, all while supporting NTC Community Relations projects, constructing museum exhibits; building displays for on-post organizations; and providing NTC training support.

By March 28, the memorial project was

completed and the engineers were able to take a step back and admire their handiwork; knowing that once again the 21 Troopers who gave their lives in service to this country had the memorial they deserved.

The engineers saw the greater purpose in what they accomplished. Staff Sgt. Hector Guevara explained, “I feel honored to recognize those who have given their lives for a country that offers freedom throughout the world. To be a part of this project brought great pride and joy in recognizing thosewhomadethegreatestsacrifice.”

The engineers who dedicated themselves to the project were: Staff Sgt. Hector Guevara, Staff Sgt. Joseph Pritchard, Sgt. Joseph Minton, and Sgt. Steven Butler.

A Regimental Engineer with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment uses a drilling attachment to create holes for the plaque posts for the Fallen Blackhorse Troopers of Operation Iraqi Freedom Memorial on Fort Irwin, Calif.

This memorial is to honor the Troopers who have paid the ultimate price on the battlefield for their country. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment)