pubshed n the nterest o the fort carson communty. st the

Published in the interest of the Fort Carson Community. Visit the Fort Carson website at http://www.carson.army.mil.

Vol. 79, No. 29July 23, 2021

Fort Carson’s Army Substance Abuse Program can be reached at 526-8407.

Full scale exercise

Photo by Norman Shifflett

Fort Carson firefighters carry a casualty on a stretcher to a casualty collection point to be triaged during the post’s 2021 full-scale exercise (FSE), Mountain Guardian 21, July 14. The FSE was a two-day event that allowed Soldiers, first responders and community partners the chance to test how well they communicate and coordinate with one another. See more on Page 6.

SEC site closes, COVID-19 vax returns to EACHBy Emily KlinkenborgU.S. Army Medical Department Activity-Fort Carson Public Affairs Office

The William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center (SEC) will close its doors after 4 p.m. Friday, as the Fort Carson COVID-19 vaccination site.

Starting Monday, Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will be administered in the Soldier Family Care Center (SFCC) building at Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH).

“As the (COVID-19) vaccine supply has increased and we have vaccinated a large portion of our population, EACH no longer requires a large venue

like the SEC to support our vaccination efforts,” said Maj. Theresa Suggs, COVID-19 vaccination site chief, EACH. “EACH can now support those beneficiaries who desire COVID-19 vaccinations within the hospital footprint.”

See Vaccinations on Page 4

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MOUNTAINEERCommanding General: Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane

Garrison Commander: Col. Nate Springer

Garrison Public Affairs Officer: Dee McNutt

Chief, Print and Web Communications: Rick Emert

Editor: Aleah M. Castrejon

Staff writer: Scott Prater

Sports writer: Walt Johnson

Layout/graphics: Jeanne Mazerall

This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of the Mountaineer are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Department of the Army. Printed circulation is 8,000 copies.

The editorial content of the Mountaineer is the respon sibility of the Public Affairs Office, Fort Carson, Colo., Tel.: 526-4144. The e-mail address is [email protected].

The Mountaineer is posted online at http://www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com.

The Mountaineer is an unofficial publication authorized by AR 360-1. The Mountaineer is printed by Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract with Fort Carson. It is published 49 times per year.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army or Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group, of the products or services advertised. The publisher reserves the right to reject advertisements.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. For display advertising call 634-5905.

All correspondence or queries regarding advertising and subscriptions should be directed to Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group, 235 S. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903, phone 634-5905.

The Mountaineer’s editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Office, building 1220, room 221, Fort Carson, CO 80913-5119, phone 526-4144.

Releases from outside sources are so indicated. The deadline for submissions to the Mountaineer is close of business Friday the week before the next issue is published. The Mountaineer staff reserves the right to edit submissions for newspaper style, clarity and typographical errors.

Policies and statements reflected in the news and editorial columns represent views of the individual writers and under no circumstances are to be considered those of the Department of the Army.

Reproduction of editorial material is authorized. Please credit accordingly.

2 MOUNTAINEER | July 23, 2021

CommentaryCommentary

Military 5 Soldier volunteers for deployment 6 Mountain Guardian 21 FSE commences: Carson

community uses training to hone response skills 8 Aviation Soldiers welcome new leader 9 Soldiers to hang up uniforms 10 13ASOS welcomes new command 14 Military briefs

Community 12 Carson wrangles up fun at rodeo 15 Payhikeincentivizeschildcarecareerfield 16 DES highlight 17 Soldiershelphoopsteamtosemifinals 18 The Journey (Chapel series):

Soldiers no match for kung-fu bunnies 20 Community briefs

In addition 21 Classified

At a glanceAt a glance

12

6

Army Substance Abuse ProgramBy Headquarters, Department of the Army, Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1

What is it?The Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) mission

is to take care of people by preventing the misuse of legal substances and the use of illicit drugs that may harm the individual, negatively impact unit cohesion and the combat readiness of the force.

What are the current and past efforts of the Army?In July 2020 ARD published an update to

AR 600-85, ASAP. The new regulation reinforces the Army’s commitment to people by ensuring a ready and resilient force. Among other changes, the Army:

• Expanded the list of substances Soldiers are tested for to include “spice” (synthetic cannabinoids) and “bath salts” (cathinones).

• Added gambling disorders to the prevention, education and training objectives.

• Aligned ASAP’s clinical care primary responsibility to the surgeon general.

• Updated guidance for administrative processing for separation of Soldiers for alcohol or other drug abuse.

• Implemented the designation of certain positions as testing designated positions under the Army Drug-Free Federal Workplace Program.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned?

The Army recently published Army Directive 2021-21, “Use of Prescribed Medications and Controlled Substances”. In accordance with the policy,

• prescription medications will be considered expired and illegitimate for use six months after the most recent fill date, as indicated on the prescription label.

• medications and controlled substances without a valid prescription will be considered illegitimate.

The Army will continue to prohibit personnel from using illegitimate prescription medication. Under Uniform Code of Military Justice and/or administrative actions, the use of illegitimate medications is punitive, and violations of this provision may subject offenders to punishment.

The Army will continue with its efforts to prevent abuse of expired legally prescribed prescription medications to reduce the potential for Soldiers to harm themselves, negatively impact their careers and impair the readiness of their units.

Why is this important to the Army?Use of illegal drugs and misuse of alcohol and

prescription drugs are inconsistent with Army values and the standards of performance, discipline and readiness necessary to accomplish the Army’s mission. The ASAP strengthens the overall fitness and effectiveness of the Army’s workforce and enhances the combat readiness of Soldiers.

The Fort Carson ASAP can be reached at 526-2727 or visit https://www.carson.army.mil/organizations/dhr.html for more information. Stock image

NewsNews3July 23, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER

Mountain Guardian 21

EACH strengthens emergency responseStory and photos by Emily KlinkenborgU.S. Army Medical Department Activity-Fort Carson Public Affairs Office

Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH) responded to an installationwide exercise July 14 by triaging 35 simulated causalities from a downed

CH-47 Chinook at a Fort Carson training area.Fort Carson Soldiers role-played mass casualty

(MASCAL) survivors in this year’s full-scale exercise, Mountain Guardian 21.

“The goal is to realistically evaluate our hospital’s capability of responding to and recovering from a MASCAL event,” said Col. Kevin Bass, commander,

EACH. “Our role in this full-scale exercise is to receive, triage, treat, monitor and report casualties arriving at our hospital and off-post treatment facilities.”

EACH is responsible for activating and managing the medical operations center (MOC) to carry out the hospital’s mass casualty plan in accordance with Fort Carson’s Mountain Post Emergency Action Plan.

The hospital works closely with U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson and 4th Infantry Division to ensure communication channels are fortified with

emergency services on the installation and within the local community.

“Communication is key,” said Bass. “Notifying our staff, patients, visitors and community partners with timely and accurate information is paramount to the success of the exercise.”

Maj. Ernest Dela Cruz, department of education chief, EACH, said the exercise helped improve Soldiers’ training requirements under the U.S. Army Medical Command’s (MEDCOM) Individual Critical Task List (ICTL).

“ICTLs are important as they provide the commander a benchmark for technical readiness of the Soldier. These tasks are medical/trauma specific,” said Dela Cruz. “Our effort is to ensure the ICTLs focus on the commander’s line of effort in ensuring we have a ready medical force.”

The full-scale exercise is an annual requirement for the hospital. The department of education is tasked with evaluating which ICTLs have been completed by the providers.

“(The full-scale exercise) gives the organization an opportunity to build confidence in ensuring we can execute and support a MASCAL event, if that incident ever arises, whether it’s in our area or in a deployed environment,” said Dela Cruz.

Two Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH) combat medic specialists triage a simulated patient at EACH during Mountain Guardian 21, the Fort Carson mass casualty exercise July 14.

The Evans Army Community Hospital department of education evaluated hospital staff performance during Mountain Guardian 21, a mass casualty exercise at Fort Carson July 14.


COVID-19 vaccinations were previously conducted at EACH before the SEC was established as the Fort Carson COVID-19 vaccination site Jan. 25.

The opening of the SEC site was a combined effort to ensure warfighters and TRICARE beneficiaries had the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as efficiently and safely as possible in accordance with the DOD distribution plan.

COVID-19 vaccinations will be available at EACH Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for TRICARE beneficiaries. Beneficiaries must first check in at room 1400 near the SFCC Pharmacy located on the east side of the hospital. Appointments are not needed to receive the vaccine at EACH as walk-ins are preferred.

The Fort Carson Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP) center will also offer the vaccine to Soldiers who are in-processing or

out-processing. The SRP is accepting walk-ins Monday-Friday from 1-2:30 p.m. for all beneficiaries who want to receive the vaccine.

EACH will continue COVID-19 symptomatic and asymptomatic operations at the SFCC in the Centralized Screening and Testing Center (CSTC), room 1200, but the hours of operation are scheduled to change.

Beneficiaries who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can visit the CSTC for testing Monday-Friday from 6:45-9:45 a.m., while asymptomatic testing, to include official travel requests, will be reserved from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the CSTC.

“Thank you to all our Fort Carson, Colorado, beneficiaries who came to the SEC for vaccinations and all the positive feedback we received from them,” said Suggs. “To all the Soldiers and (Department of the Army) civilian personnel who came together to accomplish this extraordinary task, thank you for all the hard work in making this mission a great success.”

For any questions, contact the COVID-19 Patient Advice Line Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 719-524-2684.

Pandemic not over, delta variant concerns growingBy C. Todd LopezDOD News

Nearly 68% of active-duty personnel have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with at least one dose. But that still leaves many service members vulnerable to the delta variant of the virus, health officials at the Pentagon said.

Due to the effectiveness of the Defense Department’s ongoing vaccination program, COVID-19 case counts across the department are dropping and installation commanders have been reducing local health protection conditions (HPCON), said Dr. Terry Adirim, the acting assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, during a press briefing at the Pentagon.

“However, the delta variant poses a threat to that return to normal,” Adirim said. “We are particularly concerned with the impact of the delta variant on our unvaccinated or partially vaccinated population, and its potential spread at installations that are located in parts of the country with low vaccination rates.”

According to the military health system, the delta variant of the COVID-19 virus is more transmittable, causes more severe disease, and results in higher

cases of hospitalization and death than any other strain of the virus.

The DOD has an active whole genome sequencing program in place to identify what strain of the virus is present in those who test positive for COVID-19, Adirim said.

“We’re closely watching our DOD case counts, positivity rates and the prevalence of the delta variant among all the other variants of concern,” she said. “We anticipate that health protection conditions could change at some of our installations in the future based on outbreaks that result from the high transmutability of the delta variant.”

The more virulent delta variant is spreading qu ick ly th rough communities with lower

vaccination rates, she said, and it is likely to become the predominant variant in the U.S.

“The delta variant poses a threat to our service members who are not fully vaccinated,” Adirim said. “The best way to beat the delta variant is to be fully vaccinated.”

Studies have shown that one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine is only about 33% effective against the delta variant, while two doses are at least 88% effective, Adirim said.

“We are investing great effort into ensuring our service members and other beneficiaries get both doses,” she said. “So the bottom line is: get vaccinated, they are safe and effective.”

Across the entire Defense Department, including military personnel, family members, civilians and contractors, there have been 303,000 cases of COVID-19 and 355 deaths related to the disease.

Right now, there are about 21 individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 in DOD facilities, said Army Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, director of Defense Health Agency.

“This is a decline from a peak of 240 inpatients on January 8 of this year, essentially the lowest point we’ve had since the earliest days of the pandemic,” Place said.

If those who have not yet been vaccinated need further proof of the vaccine’s effectiveness, Place said, it’s the status of those currently hospitalized within the military’s health system. Of the 21 COVID-19-positive individuals in DOD hospitals, he said, none of them are vaccinated.

Phot

os b

y Maj

. Dan

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Spc. Alvin Arias, a combat medic with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 299th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepares a COVID vaccine at California State University, Los Angeles, Feb. 17. Fort Carson Soldiers deployed in support of the DOD COVID-19 response operations. U.S. Northern Command, through U.S. Army North, remains committed to providing continued, flexible DOD support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of the whole-of-government response to COVID-19.

Army combat medics with 1st Stryker Brigade

Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepare

COVID-19 vaccines for administration to motorists at the

California State University, Los Angeles

Community Vaccination Center, March 3. Fort

Carson Soldiers deployed in support of the DOD

COVID-19 response operations.

Photo by Emily Klinkenborg

A COVID-19 vaccination staff member administers the first dose of the Moderna vaccine to a beneficiary at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center Jan. 29.

VaccinationsFrom Page 1

5July 23, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER

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Pfc. Nicholas Ramsey, a religious affairs specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, disassembles the M249 light machine gun in September during the battalion Best Squad Competition at Range 17.

Soldier volunteers for deploymentSoldier volunteers for deploymentStory and photo by Sgt. James Geelen4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Many people join the military out of a sense of patriotism or duty, for action and adventure or for a steady job in a depressed economy.

Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Pfc. Nicholas Myachi Ramsey, now a religious affairs specialist, said his decision to join the military wasn’t made lightly.

“I joined the Army for two main reasons, to travel the world and the primary one being my ability to attend college,” said Ramsey, who serves with 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. “I’m currently enrolled in college classes to major in sociology. I see my high school classmates are now sophomores in college, but they’re now burdened with student loans. It may take me longer to graduate, however, I’m not incurring that level of debt.”

Ramsey will soon be able to fulfill his desire to travel, as well.

“III Corps put out a request for a religious

affairs specialist to help a Rabbi chaplain during his battlefield circulation,” Ramsey said. “When I heard about it, I quickly volunteered to go. I recently found out that I’ve been selected for the mission, and now I’m just awaiting orders.”

Even though his religious preference differs from the chaplain. Ramsey is confident in his capabilities.

“We were taught at Fort Jackson, (South Carolina), to support our chaplain, regardless of what our personal beliefs are,” Ramsey said. “My job is to help support and accommodate any and all Soldiers, no matter what.”

His hard work and dedication have been noticed by leaders throughout the brigade.

“(Ramsey is) an outstanding Soldier and religious affairs specialist. (He) takes initiative and leads the way,” said Maj. Jody L. Harlow, brigade chaplain, 4th SB. “He sets a positive example for those around him and balances competency with character. We need more people in our world like Nicholas. It’s an honor and joy to serve with him.”

See Deployment on Page 9

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Mountain Guardian 21 FSE commences

Carson community uses training to hone response skillsStory and photos by Norman Shifflett Fort Carson Public Affairs Office

Editor’s note: The following story is based on a simulated exercise, and all mention of casualties refers to the role-players who assisted in making the full-scale exercise training realistic. The purpose of the realistic scenarios is to allow Soldiers, first responders and other entities to work together to practice for possible real-life catastrophes.

Day oneA call came across the radio alerting first

responders of a downed aircraft in a Fort Carson training area. The call kicked off Fort Carson’s two-day full-scale exercise (FSE) July 14, dubbed Mountain Guardian 21.

Within minutes of receiving the call, fire and medical first responders with the Directorate of Emergency Services (DES), arrived at the scene of the crash and immediately began assessing the situation.

What they found were 38 role-players who had moulage, or fake wounds and blood, shouting

in pain and horror trying to make the scenario as realistic as possible.

The role-players were given specific instructions on how to act based on their simulated wounds, such as being unable to walk or hear and pretending to be unconsciousness; the scenarios forced first responders to react accordingly, providing the necessary training benefits.

The emergency crews began yelling to the players who could walk to move out of the way of

the simulated burning aircraft where a casualty collection point was established.

As the role-players arrived at the collection point, first responders began evaluating and treating the casualties. The wounded who could walk were asked to apply basic first aid, such as applying pressure to an open wound.

As firefighters were searching for casualties

Fort Carson Special Reaction Team members secure “suspects” who surrendered after they overtook a government facility and it turned into a hostage situation July 15 during the post’s 2021 full-scale exercise, Mountain Guardian 21.

Fort Carson firefighters triage “casualties” at the collection point July 14 during a simulated crashed aircraft for the post’s 2021 full-scale exercise, Mountain Guardian 21.

See FSE on Page 11


Aviation Soldiers welcome new leader

By Sgt. Sidnie Smith-Swift4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

The 4th Combat Aviation Brigade “Ivy Eagles,” 4th Infantry Division, conducted a change of command ceremony July 15 at Founders Field, where the Soldiers saw Col. Scott Myers relinquish command of the brigade to Col. Joshua R. Ruisánchez.

Myers served as the brigade commander since July 2019, but he will not be moving far as he transitions to U.S. Northern Command at Peterson Air Force Base. Myers’ accomplishments while serving as the Ivy Eagles commander included navigating the brigade through the COVID-19 pandemic and the brigade’s deployment to the Middle East throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria, in June 2020 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Myers spoke of the appreciation for the Soldiers and aviators who faced a unique challenge of deploying during the pandemic.

“I routinely stated over the past two years how the Ivy Eagles have been blessed with a disproportional level of talent, and that talent paid dividends — especially when faced with COVID-19 and while executing two simultaneous deployments,” Myers said. “Balancing two essential tasks: first protecting our Soldiers and Families from COVID-19, and the equally critical task of training our Soldiers and units for combat … proved to be no easy feat. But our exceptional commanders and command sergeants major made it look extremely easy.”

Ruisánchez said he and his Family are grateful to be on the Mountain Post and with the Ivy Eagles.

“To the Soldiers in the Ivy Eagle Brigade, you simply look outstanding,” Ruisánchez said. “I am absolutely thrilled to coach such a fantastic team of professionals.”

Ruisánchez recently served as the Aviation Branch chief at Army Human Resources Command at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Photos by Capt. Jake Valdick

Col. Scott Myers, outgoing commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, passes the brigade colors to Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, as Col. Joshua R. Ruisánchez, incoming commander, looks on during a change of command ceremony July 15 at Founders Field. Myers served as the commander for the 4th CAB for two years and led the brigade during deployments to the Middle East and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From left: Col. Joshua R. Ruisánchez, incoming commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson; and Col. Scott Myers, outgoing commander, 4th CAB, salute the formation during the national anthem at a change of command ceremony July 15 at Founders Field.


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Ten Soldiers will be honored for their service to the nation during a retirement ceremony Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Founders Field. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at McMahon Auditorium.

They are: � Lt. Col. Edward B. Schoenheit, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division

� Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jason K. Flores, 52nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.

� Sgt. Maj. Christopher Mann, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Satellite Operations Brigade, U.S. Space and Missile Defense Command, Peterson Air Force Base

� 1st Sgt. Marc A. Benjamin, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.

� 1st Sgt. Vicente A. Pantoja, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd SBCT, 4th Inf. Div.

� Sgt. 1st Class Edgar Torres Cintron, HHBN, 4th Inf. Div. � Sgt. 1st Class Erica M. Thill, 404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.

� Sgt. 1st Class Josias J. Pico, 52nd BEB, 2nd SBCT, 4th Inf. Div. � Sgt. 1st Class Darren D. Ward, 12th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st SBCT, 4th Inf. Div.

� Staff Sgt. Ashley M. Motas, Soldier Recovery Unit

Soldiers to hang up uniformsSoldiers to hang up uniforms

Photo by Sgt. James Geelen

Pfc. Nicholas Ramsey, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, lays out his gear for inspection Aug. 24 in the company headquarters area.

Ramsey has also dedicated himself to his physical training, training twice a day on his own; and winning the last two company-level physical competitions, which each lasted a month.

“These challenges have taught me that if you’re passionate about something, the determination inside you will overpower the doubt that is trying to bring you down,” Ramsey said. “I had to find the confidence within myself that I can do this. I never would have thought that I could run over 650 miles between both competitions.”

One last challenge awaits Ramsey this year, as he goes for a specialized school.

“I took the advice of my senior leaders and I’m trying to get to Airborne school this fall,” Ramsey said. “By completing this school, it will help open the door for future assignments for me. I would love to serve with a Special Forces Group or be stationed in Italy.”

DeploymentFrom Page 5


welcomes new commandStory and photos by Aleah M. CastrejonMountaineer editor

Changes of command date back many centuries, serving the purpose to allow subordinates to witness a total change in command and leadership from one officer to another. The Airmen of 13th Air Support Operations Squadron “Gunslingers” were able to say farewell to Lt. Col. Craig J. Cude and witness the assumption of command by Lt. Col. Michael A. Schonbachler at Founders Field July 16.

Col. Leland K. Cowie II, presiding officer and commander of the 3rd Air Support Operations Group (ASOG) at Fort Hood, Texas, thanked Cude and his Family for their dedication during his command. Cowie made the reference to the transition saying it is similar to running a good relay race, but that it was time to hand the baton off, and he expressed his excitement for the incoming commander.

“To the Schonbachler Family, welcome to Fort Carson, home of the 13th ASOS Gunslingers and the 4th Infantry Division,” Cowie said.

With Schonbachler’s past assignments, Cowie said, “you are armed with unique perspectives and experience that will help to build (upon) the foundation you inherit today.”

Schonbachler thanked Cowie for the opportunity and expressed his excitement as he stepped into the new role.

“I will continue to build on the legacy you have helped fortify,” Schonbachler said. “I will pour my heart and soul into the people and organization in pursuit of leaving it a better place as (Cude) has.”

The incoming commander came from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, where he served as the director of operations for 1st ASOG. He has worked his way through the ranks, serving as a student navigator;

flight commander; assistant director of operations; chief, executive communications/executive services division, strategic deterrence and nuclear integration at the Pentagon in Washington D.C.; and other roles. However, Schonbachler said this assignment is one that many officers hope for.

“My job is clear, there is no mission more important than ensuring all of you — our nation’s warriors and your Families — are ready should you be called upon,” Schonbachler said. “And should you be, our brothers and sisters in arms will be grateful to have a Gunslinger at their side to wield and guide combat power onto our adversaries. I look forward to serving you.”

The outgoing commander thanked the Airmen, leaders and Families for their support, saying it is “bittersweet” to leave, as he led them through balancing home and work

life throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, a deployment and more, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his many accomplishments during his two-year command.

“Throughout all of this, I was proud of the professionalism I witnessed among all of you,” Cude said to the Airmen in formation.

He empathized with the Airmen as they embrace the change of a new commander every two years, but said, “I am confident that I cannot be leaving the squadron in better hands.”

Cude’s next assignment will be a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps commander at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, where he is looking forward to becoming part of the faculty as a professor of aerospace studies and making a generational impact.

Col. Leland K. Cowie II, left, presiding officer and commander, 3rd Air Support Operations Group, Fort Hood, Texas, hands the colors to Lt. Col. Michael Schonbachler, incoming commander, 13th Air Support Operations Squadron, symbolizing the start of his command July 16 at Founders Field during a change of command ceremony.

Airmen with 13th Air Support Operations Squadron stand in formation as they welcome a new commander during a change of command ceremony July 16, 2021, at Founders Field. Col. Leland K. Cowie II, commander, 3rd Air Support Operations Group, Fort Hood, Texas, presided over the ceremony as he welcomed Lt. Col. Michael Schonbachler, incoming commander, 13th ASOS, and bid farewell to Lt. Col. Craig J. Cude, outgoing commander, 13th ASOS.

13ASOS


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around the crash site, medical responders from Evans Army Community Hospital had to react to the growing number of casualties. The medical staff had to quickly decide where to send the wounded.

“We simulated a helicopter crash, and the casualties on that helicopter exceeded the capacity that we have at Evans Army Community Hospital,” said Col. Nate Springer, commander,

U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson. “It forces us to coordinate with hospitals in Colorado Springs.”

This year’s FSE was important to conduct, as last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19. FSEs serve to test emergency services on post with community partners to ensure the entities can coordinate smoothly with each other.

“The purpose of the exercise was to test Fort Carson capabilities to respond to and recover from an aircraft crash/mass casualty downrange, and also to respond to and recover from an

installation breach and an occupation of a federal facility,” said Danny Shepherd, installation emergency manager, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security (DPTMS).

Day twoThe exercise continued the next

day, and Fort Carson law enforcement officers were challenged with an intruder who breached a federal facility, which became a simulated hostage situation at a location in the Fort Carson training area.

Patrol officers with the 759th Military Police Battalion responded and cordoned

off the area before contacting the individuals inside the facility, which allowed the patrol officers to practice gathering information on the suspects.

DES set up an incident command post near the facility to direct resources and personnel.

Negotiations began between the suspects and the Criminal Investigation Command agents to first attempt a peaceful resolution to the standoff.

The scenario ended as the situation escalated after a “hostage” was assassinated, and the Fort Carson Special Reaction Team neutralized the remaining suspects.

“Every year we try to do an exercise to test our capabilities, push our capabilities past our limitations so we know where to improve,” said Capt. Brandon Graber, a Fort Carson police officer. “We evaluate our response; we evaluate our tactics and technical procedures and our coordination with local and outside agencies.”

While all the action on the ground was taking place for the two-day exercise, behind the scenes the Fort Carson Garrison Emergency Operation Center was working on gathering information, coordinating efforts and keeping the community informed.

Springer said a third of the personnel in the EOC were experiencing an FSE for the first time. Each day the EOC team members faced various challenges and were able to improve their operations and build upon their experiences for the next training event or real-world situation.

“When you think about all the directorates across Fort Carson and all of our community partners that we have to (coordinate) with, whether it’s the Colorado Springs Police Department or the El Paso County Sheriff’s Department or the FBI in town, it’s really important that we know who each other are, we see each other regularly and we train together regularly,” said Springer.

FSEFrom Page 7

Photo by Norman Shifflett

A Fort Carson Emergency Management team uses smoke pots near a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, simulating a crashed aircraft July 14 during the post’s 2021 full-scale exercise, Mountain Guardian 21.

12 MOUNTAINEER | July 23, 2021 13July 23, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER

FeatureFeature

Carson wrangles up fun at rodeoBy Amber MartinFort Carson Public Affairs Office

The relationship between Fort Carson and the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo (PPBR) was evident in the continued tradition the event brought to Soldiers, their Families and the community, as the 80th PPBR kicked off July 14 at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.

“This has been a tradition for years, and when the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo started it’s always been to the benefit of the military community and Colorado Springs,” said Col. Nate Springer, commander, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson. “What’s been so great is, as military leaders have rotated in and out, the one thing constant is the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, which wants to maintain a relationship with the Army and the Air Force across the Front Range and across all the installations.”

While the event was cancelled last year, due to COVID-19, Deanne Funkhouser, director, PPBR, said she was excited to get back to it.

“The response I have received from the community leaders and our ticket sales tell me that we’re all excited to be back into the rodeo,” Funkhouser said.

Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, provided the opening speech, which was followed by performances from the Pikes Peak or Bust Range Rider Pivots and the Pikes Peak Rangerettes drill teams. Soldiers with the Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presented the colors and Staff Sgt. Katherine Bolcar, vocalist, 4th Inf. Div. band, sang the national anthem.

The opening ceremonies prepared the crowd for an exciting lineup of competition in bareback, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Springer said bull riding was his favorite event to watch.

“I would love to try bull riding. I know I would only make it like a second on the bull, but I always respect the athleticism it takes to be a bull rider when I see it on TV,” Springer said. “I think it would be exhilarating. I like the adrenaline.”

The rodeo is part of Western Heritage days and events, which began April 24 and will run through Dec. 4. Girl of the West Georgia Strimenos is a rodeo ambassador who helps promote the events and “the Western way of life.” Prior to the rodeo she attended several events on Fort Carson.

“One link (between the rodeo and service members) that I have seen over the summer — being

the Girl of the West — is the family connection,” Strimenos said.

She added that while a portion of the proceeds from these events help support service members and Families across the Front Range, the PPBR is also perfect for military Families new to the area looking to get out and do something different.

Colorado Springs and the Front Range has a large population of active-duty service members, Families, veterans and retirees — and the large events provide Soldiers and their Families a welcoming feeling as they experience PPBR and Western Heritage Days.

“I’m not sure that there is a better relationship across the country with a city and an installation,” Springer said. “It’s nice for our Soldiers, Families and leaders to feel like people really care about them, and they make sure we’re taken care of. It’s really unique to Colorado Springs and to Fort Carson.”

The PPBR honored service members with a special evening every night of the rodeo including Fort Carson night, missile defense and first responder’s night; space night; U.S. Air Force Academy matinee; and a North American Aerospace Defense Command/U.S. Northern Command night rounding out four days of competition and celebration.

Photo by Spc. Emmanuel Jeanmarie

Left: 1st Lt. Jordan Koppelmann, platoon leader, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows a boy the inside of a Stryker July 14 during the 80th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo at the Norris-Penrose Event Center.

Photo by Amber Martin

Right: Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane,

commanding general, 4th Infantry Division

and Fort Carson, provides the opening

speech July 14 during Fort Carson Night at the 80th Pikes Peak

or Bust Rodeo.



Below: Tyler Johnson, competitor, hangs on to Jungle Cat as he completes his bareback ride July 14 during Fort Carson Night at the 80th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo.

Right: The Range Rider Pivots drill team rides around

the arena July 14 during the opening ceremony on Fort

Carson Night at the 80th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. Ph

oto

by A

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The Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard presents the colors July 14 during Fort Carson Night at the 80th Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo.


530 Communication Circle, Colorado Springs, CO 80905

MUSIC EXPRESSION GROUP

WEEKLY AT MT. CARMEL

Mondays 5-6 p.m.

Visit VeteransCenter.org

• Encounter the power of music in your life!

• Weekly jam sessions offer a low-key opportunity to play, learn and build a band with other veterans!

• The group decides what genres, instruments, level of skill, cover songs or originals.

Learn more or register by emailing Mt. Carmel Community Ambassador Robert Scoggins at [email protected]

• Come as you are, at any skill level and bring your own instruments, or borrow one of ours if needed.

• Experience an alternative way to connect with other veterans.

• Jam sessions are FREE!

Fort Carson Ivy Warrior Restaurants hours of operation:

Friday Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.

Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.

Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Dinner: Closed

Warfighter (Wilderness Road)

Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.

LaRochelle 10th SFG(A) Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner: Closed

Saturday-Sunday Wolf, Warfighter (Wilderness Road) and LaRochelle 10th SFG(A)

Closed

Stack Brunch: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Supper: 5-6:30 p.m.

Monday-Thursday Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.

Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.

Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.

Warfighter (Wilderness Road)

Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.

LaRochelle 10th SFG(A) Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner: Closed

Of note OCIE turn in — Soldiers do not have to wait for clearing papers to schedule

organizational clothing and individual equipment (OCIE) turn in. Soldiers can schedule appointments for 120 days out from permanent change of station (PCS), expiration-term of service (ETS), or retirement with a signed memorandum by the Soldier’s company commander approving early turn in of OCIE equipment. The other option is for Soldiers to schedule on their own 90 days out from PCS, ETS or retirement with a copy of their orders. To schedule an appointment, log into “AKO”, click “My Clothing Record” then click the hyperlink in the bottom left-hand corner titled “CIF Appointments” or call 719-526-3321 and a customer service representative will assist with scheduling.

Personal trainer certificate — III Corps will pay for a certificate to be a personal trainer. Requirements are for active-duty specialists (promotable) through first lieutenants: Army Physical Fitness Test score must be greater than 239, must be able to complete total Army Combat Fitness Test, no administrative flags in 12 months and have 12-month stability at CMPY. Interested participants can call 719-503-0910 or email Maj. Nathan Henry at [email protected] or Sgt. Maj. Gersom Jimenez at [email protected].

Military briefsEditor’s note: See www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com for the complete list of military briefs. Due to the COVID-19 closures and cancellations, contact the respective points of contact for updated information and hours of operation.


CommunityCommunity

Pay hike incentivizes child care career field

By Scott PraterMountaineer staff

Child care workers on Fort Carson will receive a significant pay bump in the next few weeks.

Child and Youth Services (CYS) leaders recently announced the measure, which will equal a 9% pay increase for all direct child care employees in CYS at the Mountain Post.

“This is a two-fold benefit to Fort Carson,” said Armanda Hunt, coordinator, CYS. “We want to reward our staff members, who have been steadfast and loyal for the past 18 months, and we want to be competitive with employers outside of the gates.”

Hunt said the CYS leadership team and U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson command staff have been studying child care programs on post for the past 18 months. When DOD leaders announced a servicewide pay increase of 48 cents per hour for child care providers earlier this year, Fort Carson leaders recognized an opportunity to enhance employee compensation locally.

“We took out our pay-setting guide and determined that a 48-cent per hour hike just wasn’t commensurate with the level of duties nor comparable with salaries for similar positions off post,” Hunt said.

Starting July 22, CYS direct child care workers at the Mountain Post will incur a substantial pay hike. Entry level workers will earn $15 per hour, while skilled workers will take home $16.38 per hour, target-level workers get a bump to $18.40 per hour and lead child and youth program assistants will earn $19.96 an hour.

“Our Fort Carson Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR) CYS team provides an invaluable service to Soldiers and families in support of their mission readiness and quality of life,” said Michael O’Donnell, director, DFMWR. “Their commitment and ability to adapt and overcome throughout the pandemic have been truly remarkable. Recognizing the importance of that service, and continuously assessing how we improve upon our recruitment and retention strategies is critical to our long-term success. Maintaining competitive pay is one significant part of that strategy and having received command

approval to implement these pay increases significantly improves our ability to attract and retain the highest quality personnel.”

This is a significant development for the Mountain Post. Fort Carson CYS operates multiple facilities — six child development centers, two school-age (before and after school care), a middle school and teen center and a parent central services facility. In all, CYS employs 372 workers and hopes to attract up to its guided allotment of 581 workers.

Direct child care workers care for children from 6 weeks to 18 years old. While some prefer to specialize in specific age groups, Hunt said many opt to move between age groups to make themselves more marketable.

Potential employees must pass a background check, provide three references and hold a high school diploma, though exceptions can be made for those who are 17 and are seeking a diploma. CYS also participates in a transfer program that allows spouses or other employees to transfer to another garrison while keeping their current pay rate and employment category.

“CYS offers tremendous employment opportunities, from entry level through senior leadership; provides deliberate, sequential and progressive training and development along the way; and affords those with longer-term career aspirations in child and youth development a life-long journey,” O’Donnell said. “We can’t thank our CYS professionals enough for the dedication, hard work and passion they bring to work every day, and are thrilled to be able to recognize and appreciate them for the positive difference they make in the lives of our Soldiers and Families.”

Stock image

“Our Fort Carson Directorate of Family and

Morale, Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR)

CYS team provides an invaluable service

to Soldiers and families in support of their

mission readiness and quality of life.Michael O’Donnell

“


Editor’s note: The following article was written by the Directorate of Emergency Services division chiefs to inform the Fort Carson community of current policies and procedures. Visit https://www.carson.army.mil/, and follow Facebook @USArmyFortCarson for the most updated information and procedures.

Security access controlVisitor Control Center —

Over the beginning of the month, the Fort Carson Visitor’s Control Center (VCC) saw a massive influx of guests on post for the festivities and fireworks. In anticipation of the change, additional personnel were posted at the VCC, where they assisted guests in using the kiosks and helped manage the circulation from the kiosks to the clerks for additional assistance. Despite the 30-40-minute wait time, guests were patient and understanding, making the day flow smoothly. The first few days of July proved the talents of the VCC staff and provided data on how quickly the kiosks were able to process a large volume of customers. Altogether, from July 1-2, 1,205 guests were processed through the VCC, and 1,196 passes were issued. The two Kiosk machines processed nearly 600 passes. These numbers will assist future efforts to determine if additional machines will be required to meet the needs of the Fort Carson community.

Emergency Communications Center (ECC)

Lightning safety — Although thunder and lightning can happen year-round in Colorado, lightning strikes and lightning fires occur most frequently during the summer months. Lightning

can strike up to 10 miles away from any rainfall. For example, the Air Force Academy is about 12 miles north of Fort Carson. So, if a storm is seen anywhere along the Front Range, it is important to keep safety in mind.

Many lightning strike deaths occur ahead of storms before any rain has arrived or after a storm has passed and the rain has ended. Don’t be fooled by blue skies, if thunder can be heard, striking distance of lightning is near. People who find themselves outdoors should seek shelter immediately. Trees do not offer shelter from lightning and standing under or next to one puts a person at greater risk. There is no place outside that is safe during a thunderstorm; seek the shelter of a large building, home or a hard-topped vehicle. Soft-topped vehicles, such as Jeeps or convertibles, do not offer adequate protection.

While indoors, unplug appliances and other electronic devices such as computers and televisions. If you cannot unplug them, turn them off. Do not use electronic equipment; it can put people in direct contact with electricity. It is unsafe to use corded phones, but cell phones are OK. Stay away from windows or doors and avoid contact with water. After a storm has passed, it is best to wait 30 minutes before venturing outside again.

If someone is struck by lightning, immediately call 911 for assistance and, if possible, move the victim to a safer place before administering aid to avoid additional harm. Field responders will be dispatched and can provide guidance through helping the victim.

Fire and emergency servicesFire safety tips for summer

travel — Many people look forward to summer vacations, camping, family

reunions, picnics and more. Summer is a great time to take a road trip or go camping. Keep the following safety tips in mind.

1. Choose a fire safe hotel — When staying at a motel or hotel, choose one with a fire sprinkler system and smoke alarms. Ask the front desk clerk about the fire notification system and what the fire alarm sounds like. Review the fire escape plan posted in the room and read the checklist for hotel fie safety.

2. Identify exits — Whether in a hotel, restaurant or a museum, always be familiar with the location of the closest exits.

3. Don’t throw lit cigarettes out of a car — Never throw a lit cigarette, match or cigar out of a car window or onto the ground. It could ignite dry vegetation or even in rare circumstances, ignite fumes from a vehicle.

4. Fireworks safety — Fireworks are also a safety hazard in the summer months. Be knowledgeable about state and county fire bans before lighting any fireworks.

5. Protect home and Family from summer wildfires — Summer is also the season of wildfires. For those in high wildfire areas, keep the following tips in mind.

• Assemble an emergency kit. Create a kit for wildfire-related emergencies in case it becomes difficult to get supplies. Keep three days’ worth of food, water and medical supplies on hand always. Store the kit in a safe place such as a basement or pantry.

• Have a wildland plan. Before there is a danger of wildfires, sit down with Family to agree on an escape route from the home. Map out several routes to leave the area in a vehicle and write down plans and store them in the emergency kit.

• Create a safety zone around the house. Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends clearing all dry vegetation and debris from around the home, keeping a clear area extending 30-100 feet from the house. Get rid of dry grass, leaves, vines, fallen branches, firewood and other flammable materials within this area. Mow your grass to keep it short, and never store rags with oil or gasoline near the home.

• Help firefighters find the house. If firefighters need to get to the house, its best if the property is clearly marked. Make sure the house number is clearly visible from the street.

DES highlight

See DES on Page 20


2021 Leadership Lessons

PRESENTED BY:

RSVP at CSBJ.com/Events

Save the Date!LYNNE TELFORDCare and Share

Oct. 7TYSON NUNNNunn Construction

Sept. 9

Aug. 12 • 4:30-6 p.m. • $25/person

YEMI MOBOLADEYemi Mobolade moved to Colorado Springs 10 years ago with the goal of founding a church. Originally from Nigeria, he found fertile ground for new ventures in Colorado Springs and, in addition to co-founding Wild Goose Meeting House and Good Neighbors Meeting House, he serves as the city’s small business administrator. Mobolade will share his perspective on how business leaders can foster respect and diversity and how Colorado Springs is poised for the next wave of growth and leadership.

Ent Center for the Arts (5225 N. Nevada Ave.)

Soldiers help hoops team to semifinalsStory and photos by Walt JohnsonMountaineer staff

Fort Carson Soldiers were part of the Colorado Military basketball team to finish in the final four at the Military Basketball Association’s tournament July 16 through Sunday.

The tournament was played in Denver at Metro State University and Denver University facilities and brought together 16 of the best military teams from each branch of the service along with six women’s teams vying for the title

Right: Fort Carson’s Everette

Duis battles an opponent during the

Military Basketball Association’s

tournament Saturday in Denver.

Left: Fort Carson’s Akeem Echols, left, looks to drive past a Camp Pendleton defender during the Military Basketball Association’s tournament Sunday at Metro State University in Denver.

See Semifinals on Page 20


Commentary by Lt. Col. Rick BrunsonChaplain, garrison pastoral coordinator

In the year 1807, Napoleon Bonaparte and the Grande Armée of France defeated the combined armies of Austria, Prussia and Russia. The Treaty of Tilst forced costly, humiliating concessions on the conquered countries, and when it was officially ratified, Napoleon returned home as a triumphant hero. In order to celebrate his victory,

the French emperor proposed a rabbit hunt for his senior officers,

and he put his chief of staff, Alexandre Berthier,

in charge of the event.The emperor’s

right-hand man purchased as many as 3,000 domestic

rabbits for the hunt, and after an outdoor

lunch the men readied themselves to bag some bunnies. When the cages were opened, the

rabbits did the unexpected. Instead of running away from Napoleon and his entourage, they went on the offensive. The hares hit the men at full speed, knocking most to the ground, and one eyewitness reported that the rabbits swarmed the emperor’s legs and then started to climb into his jacket.

Attempts to defend himself against the cute, furry creatures proved to be futile, so Napoleon fled to his royal coach. A hoard of bunnies hopped after him and many managed to jump into the carriage before it departed. The coach sped toward Paris and the soldiers laughed hysterically as they witnessed rabbits flying from the windows. It seemed that the giant who brought Europe and Russia to its knees was no match for a legion of rabbits.

There was a logical reason for the attack of the maniacal bunnies. In order to ensure there would be enough rabbits for everyone to shoot, Alexandre Berthier purchased the prey from local farmers. When the cages were opened, the hungry rabbits assumed Napoleon and his staff were the servants who fed them, so they swarmed the soldiers because they thought it was lunch time.

We all face giants of Napoleonic proportion. Threatening people and situations can seem larger

than life, and very often, greater than our ability to cope. Some of the emotional giants we face my come in the form of depression or uncontrolled anger. Our physical giants may be an addiction, an unexpected medical diagnosis or a traumatic loss; and our personal giants may be in the form of bullies and difficult people. These people and circumstances can make us feel powerless, but there is hope when we put our trust in God.

As the people of Israel prepared to enter the promised land, they were told the territory was filled with monstrous giants and fortified cities that made them seem like grasshoppers, (Numbers 13:33). Rather than risk getting squashed like bugs, the people decided to return to slavery in Egypt. The Lord was insulted by Israel’s faithless insolence, and he forced them to live in the wilderness for 40 years. But the next generation walked by faith, and they witnessed the God of heaven part rivers, smash walled cities and strike terror into the hearts of giants.

If a motivated ball of fur can set a tyrannical emperor to flight, then a grasshopper with faith can put the “kung-fu” on giants of biblical proportion.

“Everything is possible for one who believes,” (Mark 9:23).

Soldiers no match for kung-fu bunnies

Editor’s note: See www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com for the complete list of the chapel briefs and service schedule.

Facebook — Search “Fort Carson Chaplains (Religious Support Office)” for events and schedules: visit https://www.facebook.com/4IDCarsonRSO/ or https://www.facebook.com/Our-Lady-of-Fort-Carson-622517474897811 for livestreaming.

Chapel NeXt — Visit https://www.facebook.com/

chapelnextfortcarson/ for livestream. Visit the Chapel NeXt Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/#!/chapelnextfortcarson for details.

Religious Education class — Contact Pat Treacy at 524-2458 or [email protected] for details.

Catholic Women of the Chapel — Call Michelle Jones at 352-231-1088 or email

[email protected] Women of the Chapel — The RSO

can be reached at 719-526-5279 or visit https://www.facebook.com/pwocfortcarson.

Native American prayer/spiritual services — The He Ska Akicita (White Mountain Warriors) hosts Inipi (sweat lodge) services at Turkey Creek Ranch, but are suspended until further notice. Contact Michael Hackwith at 285-5240 for more information and protocols. Chaplain sponsor is Capt. Charlene Cheney, 53rd Signal Battalion, who can be reached at [email protected].

Knights of Columbus — a Catholic group for men 18 and older, call 526-5769.

Spanish Bible Study — Call Ted Garcia at 205-3076.

Chapel briefsEditors note: See www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com for the complete list of community briefs and chapel schedules. Due to the COVID-19 closures and cancellations, contact the respective points of contact for updated information. Many religious support activities have moved to a digital platform.

See the Mountaineer online at http://www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com


Claims to the estateSgt. John Arevalo — With deepest regret

to the Family of the deceased. Anyone having claims against or indebtedness to his estate should call 2nd Lt. Julio Martinez at 910-797-5790.

Sgt. 1st Class Julian C. Moore — With deepest regret to the Family of the deceased. Anyone having claims against or indebtedness to his estate should call Maj. Mathaniel Lehmann at 541-760-2136.

Of note Casualty Notification/ Assistance Officer

training — Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the Casualty Notification Officer (CNO)/Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO) recertification timeline for CNO/CAO training is extended from 12 to 24 months. The requirement for in-person training every fourth year is also suspended. In-person CNO/CAO training may be conducted when all COVID-19 health and force protection requirements can be met and followed. The Joint Knowledge Online SIMM 1, SIMM, and SIMM 3 Casualty Training is not a substitute for the Army’s in-classroom CNO/CAO initial certification and remains the Army’s CNO/CAO recertification training. For more information, call 526-5613/5614 or email [email protected].

General announcementsVoluntary leave transfer — The following

Fort Carson-serviced employees have been approved to receive donated leave due to an emergency medical condition:

• James A. Chapman, Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC)

• Denver L. Holder, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command,

• Daniel G. Sullivan, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, and Security (DPTMS) training division

Any Army appropriated fund civilian employee wishing to donate annual leave to a listed employee, must complete the OPM Form 630a at http://www.opm.gov/Forms/pdf(underscore)fill/opm630a.pdf. If a non-Army appropriated fund civilian employee from another federal agency (VA, AF, DOD, Interior, etc.) is interested in donating, he must complete the OPM Form 630b at http://www.opm.gov/Forms/pdf(underscore)fill/opm630b.pdf and provide to his civilian personnel/HR office for annotation. Both forms must then be forwarded to Clinton Moss Jr. of the Fort Carson Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC) by email to [email protected] with the subject line “VLTP.” Call Moss at 526-3641 for more information. Employees experiencing a medical emergency (personal or Family member) who will exhaust their leave balances quickly should contact the CPAC Management Employee Relations team.

Do you want access to your medical records? Before making a trip to Evans Army Community Hospital, consider logging into TRICARE online and accessing its “Blue Button” feature. Securely view,

download and print medical profiles, lab results, immunizations and vital signs for the patient and family members under the age of 12. To conveniently view medical records, visit https://www.tricareonline.com. Proceed to “Health Record,” then “Download My Data” to access medical records. The Correspondence (Release of Information) Office in the Patient Administration Division hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed Thursday and federal holidays. Call 526-0890 for details.

Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center at Fort Carson Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. — Mt. Carmel employment and transition team, in partnership with TAP, offers career services for transitioning Soldiers, Family members and veterans at a new office. The office is located in building 6237, room 115, TAP. Services include no-cost transition or job seeker assistance and access to paid internships, veteran benefits support, supportive and behavioral health services, financial counseling, support groups, discounted professional clothing

and more. Call 526-8758 or visit https://veteranscenter.org/.

Soldier Readiness Center pharmacy — located in the Mountain Post Soldier Center at 6351 Wetzel Ave., building 1525, room 402, is open for pharmacy services. The pharmacy is open only for deployments Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., depending on the number of personnel scheduled to deploy.

Community briefsEditors note: See www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com for the complete list of community briefs. Due to the COVID-19 closures and cancellations, contact the respective points of contact for updated information and hours of operation.

By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, people can enjoy the summer months safely. Fort Carson Fire and Emergency Services is available to answer any questions about all fire safety topics at 503-3473 (FIRE).

Police Provost Marshal Division

School starting soon — As school resumes after summer break, the Fort Carson community will begin seeing an increase in vehicular and pedestrian traffic in and around the multiple grade schools and one middle school on the installation. The school year also activates the necessity for reduced speed limits (20 mph) in school zones. School zones often become congested with buses, parents attempting to drop off or pick up their children, and children walking to school. Combine these factors with people attempting to get to work

on time or make other commitments on a tight schedule, and it can be very easy for some to get frustrated. To alleviate some frustration, remember school zones can be muddled. Allowing extra time for the first few weeks of school will help alleviate some frustration. Also, for anyone traveling around a school, it is paramount to pay extra attention to other vehicles and pedestrians and obey the posted speed limit. Lastly, remember everyone is adjusting to a new schedule, so be respectful and courteous to others.

DESFrom Page 16

of the best team in military basketball. “It means a lot to me to be able

to be with this team and represent Fort Carson on this team,” said Akeem Echols, a Fort Carson

Soldier. “This is my first duty station, and when I decided to join the Army, I wanted to play basketball at this level. This is a great way to build camaraderie among Soldiers, service members and civilians.”

The Colorado Military basketball team consisted of members from the post, the U.S. Air Force Academy,

Peterson Air Force Base and Schriever Air Force Base. Fort Carson’s members Lionelle Simpson, Akeem Echols, Jaylan Coleman, Daniel Petrie, Corey Arnette, Joseph Dowdell and Everette Duis helped lead the multi-service team representing Colorado to a semifinal berth, where it dropped a heartbreaking three-point contest to

Camp Pendleton, California’s, Marine Corps team.

“It took dedication, commitment and hard work for us to get to this point,” Simpson said. “We have a program that strengthens us to be able to compete against teams of this caliber, and it is needed when competing at this level.”

SemifinalsFrom Page 17


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