the eagle eye-nov 2010

8/8/2019 The Eagle Eye-nov 2010

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TISSUE

6,NOVEMBER

2010

EGEE

eageprd


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ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

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The EAGLE EYEF I G H T I N G E A G L E 06

LTC Christopher C. Prather

You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what yo

have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled.~ Charles Haddon Spurgeon

The phenomenal Fighting Eagles team of Soldiers and their dedicated families approach Thanksgiving. doubtedly in Iraq, our dining facilities will prepare the traditional celebration food and have decorations to rem

us of Thanksgiving. Our families at home will probably celebrate this wonderful American tradition, and those w

tougher circumstances will receive Thanksgiving Gift baskets bought with contributions from the Fighting Eag

deployed in Iraq. Our FRG is volunteering their precious time to shop, put the baskets together, and distrib

them to our families.

In the midst of all of this festivity, lets remember all that which we truly have to be thankful for. In the

of 1621, the Pilgrim pioneers had made seven times more graves than houses perhaps few Americans have b

more impoverished than these first colonists who, nevertheless, took time from their hectic life of survival and

aside a day of thanksgiving for the few blessings which they had received in the New World. In this spirit, I ask t

we all take a good, hard look around us and realize that while we may not have everything that we want, th

sometimes what we want is not what we need. I am thankful for the safety of our deployed Soldiers to date

well as the fact that we are one month closer to returning home to our families. I am thankful for the bond of m

tual support those who have deployed have formed. Im thankful for our professional Soldiers, who continu

pour their hearts into their mission and provide top-notch support to flight of Senators, the Deputy Secretary

Defense, Soldiers who have been wounded to medical facilities, directing air traffic, pumping the fuel for our w

derful flying machines, and keeping our ground fleet of vehicles run-

ning.

Yet, I would like to remind our Soldiers and their families that

home is not necessarily safe. We must remain vigilant at all times to

keep ourselves and our families safe; our worst injury among those

deployed on our team occurred during an accident while home for

Rest and Recuperation (R&R) leave. The enemy of danger has no lim-

its. Your Soldier and your military family hold this nation close, safe

from those who wish to hurt us. Remember that you, and those likeyou, are the backbone of the American family. You keep the wheels in

motion and the hearts alive while most other American families would

just break completely down. Military families make this nation what it

is today. I am thankful for my family and thankful for your family.

Keep safe!

Fighting Eagles!


3/18

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

3

The EAGLE EYECSM Jake W. Werner

F I G H T I N G E A G L E 07

Fighting Eagles and Family,

Everyones heard the saying a mind is a terri-

ble thing to waste or why put off till tomorrow

what can be done today. I for one tend to agree

with both of these statements and am baffled every

time I encounter someone just spinning their

wheels. You may be asking yourself where is he go-

ing with this, well Im going to enlighten you. If you

were to ask my wife, she would tell you that there

are only a few things that Im truly passionate about;one of them being the outdoors, LOL. One thing

that Im really passionate about and take very seri-

ous is taking care of Soldiers and their families. I

take it quite personal when I or the Army is unable

to meet the needs of our Team. On the other hand it is frustrating when services and assistance is there for the

asking, but is not utilized. It is a proven fact that if you dont use something you can probably count on losing it.

For example, lets take the Army One Source also known as MilitaryOneSource.com. This is a great website full o

all kinds of information. I would go as far to say as that is probably one of the best military websites available to

our Soldiers and family members. Also, I know that there are a multitude of tools available at this site that addre

common life challenges that we all deal with like finances, parenthood and relationships. Now Im not saying thathis particular website is not used or that it is going away. My point is that this is one of many programs that are

available to you and your family. I realize it is October and Halloween is right around the corner, but dont be

afraid of taking advantage of these resources. There is no trick in this Trick or Treat message, you dont even

have to dress up and go knock on someones door, all you have to do is go on line or pick up the phone.

Speaking of Holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner. During the season it is a

good time to be thankful and count our blessings. As we gear up for the upcoming festivities let us not forget th

that are not as fortunate. The reality is, for some the holidays are the most stressful times of the year; it is also a

time when depression can be at its highest. I believe that we do a good job of contributing to charities and prov

ing assistance to those in need, but fall short when it comes to just reaching out. Generally speaking, few peoplejust invite themselves over for a holiday meal, LOL. It should be no surprise that many military men & women or

their families will be spending their first Thanksgiving or Christmas away from home, which can add to their stres

no one should have to spend the Holidays alone. Let us get into the true spirit of the seasons by extending a hel

ing hand to our fellow Fighting Eagles and Families. Remember, it is the little things in life that can truly make

difference.

Thanks again for all your hard work here in Iraq and for the support back home. We continue to be succe

ful by working as a TEAM and staying positive. Stay Demon Strong, Eagle Ready, and Duty First.


4/18

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

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The EAGLE EYEF I G H T I N G E A G L e 09

CW4 Jess McGee

Dear families and friends of the Fighting Eagles Battalion,

We have completed another month of our deployment and our 2nd

month of Operation New Dawn. The pace is as

fast as ever and the Fighting Eagles are continuing to lead the way in aviation and set the standard for operational support

throughout Iraq. Your Fighting Eagles have managed to fly over 16,000 hours and carry more than 81,000 passengers in ou

deployment. As with all things, this would not be possible if it was not for engaged leadership and the support you provide

With the coming months the temperatures will remain in the mid 90s for at least a month then fall in to the 80s a

the end of November through our redeployment. With the nice weather we are having, Im finding more and more Soldie

outside and enjoying the cooler temperatures at night. The temperatures at night fall steadily into the 70s, which is about

perfect for a BBQ. Several of our soldiers have had BBQs in our living areas and I will say that the smell is awesome. It is a l

tle taste (smell) of home that we can all enjoy and reflect upon what we will do after the deployment is over and the thing

we will do with our families once we are reunited.

Also this month, the Department of the Army has announced the upcoming CW3/4/5 promotion board selection c

teria. Warrant Officers in the zone of consideration will have until January to complete their promotion packet. This year w

have 21 CW2s in the zone for consideration for CW3, 6 CW3s in the zone for CW4 and 3 CW4s completing for CW5. In all

have 30 Warrant Officers in our Task Force going in front of the promotion board. Most of our Warrants are in the final sta

of finishing their promotion packet. Important dates to remember:

20 Nov: My Board File Opens

14 Jan: My Board File Closes

19 Jan: Board Convenes

As you can see our Warrant Officers have a busy schedule

the next coming months with both promotion and the daily flight

schedule. Last promotion cycle our TF promotion rates were bette

than the Department of the Army average and with all the great

work our Warrant Officers have been doing the rates should rema

better than the rest of the Army. We have also completed our Dir

torate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES) visit. The Fighting

Eagles team was prepared and when the out brief was complete w

had several or our Soldiers receiving commendations for their ded

cation to the mission and a job well done. It was not an easy visit

from DES but we did come out with many laudatory comments on

how we perform business and are exceeding the Army goals. Grea

job team.

In closing, I would like to thank all of the Soldiers and Warrant Officers for working as a team and showing the Arm

what we see every day, Excellence. Also to our families thank you for the support in the last 7 months and if it were not fo

the things you do we would not be as focused. In addition, to my wife, thank you for all the things you do and by the way I

ran out of coffee creamer-please send some. Coffee is not the same without it.


5/18

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

5

The EAGLE EYECPT Matthew Christensen

c h a p l a i nR&R

As I write this letter, Im preparing to go on R&R. While Im not looking forward to the traveling time, I cant wait to see my wife and kids again. As

ready for leave, Ive spent some time looking back over the last few months just to reflect on the deployment so far. As I reflected I found some th

that surprised me. The biggest surprise: there are several things that I will actually miss while Im back in Kansas with my family. At first I felt a

guilty, but then I thought a little harder about what a deployment does to a person how a deployment changes a person. Hereswhat Ive learne

far:

Deployments are a lot like marriages. We have all agreed to serve together in this environment,

either through a commission or an enlistment. Because of our commitment to serve our

country, we have no choice but to figure out how to work with the other Soldiers in our bat-

talion. Our relationships with other Soldiers are either improving, or disintegrating. Those

who make an effort to work together as part of the team will make huge contributions to the

success of the deployment. Those who chose to focus primarily on themselves and their own

needs will struggle and sometimes fail. If youre wondering what kind of Soldier you are just

ask yourself this question: Am I more concerned with my individual needs, or the needs of

others?

Deployments are opportunities for developing lifelong friendships. While here in Iraq, I have had

the opportunity to work with some great Soldiers. Some of these Soldiers have become close

friends that I will keep in touch with for the rest of my life. My wife has also made some life-

long friends back in Kansas while Ive been deployed. These friends are an awesome byprod-

uct of deployment.

Deployments are opportunities to grow as an individual. While deployed, Ive seen individuals

excel in several ways. Ive seen a few Soldiers lose an incredible amount of weight. A few

have drastically improved their physical fitness levels. Some have worked through college

courses, or completed military correspondence courses. Many have improved at their jobcompetency and proficiency. Others have used the deployment as a chance to grow spiritu-

ally.

After reflecting on my deployment so far, Im even more excited to return to my wife and kids. I have

learned a little more about relationships and commitments. I understand with greater clarity the im-

portance of placing the needs of my wife and kids above my own needs. I am learning to be a better

friend through friendships with others. I am working to improve myself as an individual by following

the example of Soldiers who have used the deployment for personal development and growth.

I am looking forward to R&R and Im definitely looking forward to r

ployment, but I realize that my life hasnt stopped for a year. I have continue

grow and mature and my family has also grown and matured. I missed a few thduring the deployment year that I will never get back, but I have also received m

blessings. For me personally, I give thanks to God for this deployment and the m

opportunities that have come with it.

In His Service,

CH (CPT) Matthew C. Christensen

2-1 GSAB, CAB, 1ID


6/18

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

6

HHC headhuntersThe EAGLE EYE

Hello Headhunter Families,

Well, by the time you read this we will have made it over the half way point. Hope your loved ones have been home or will be home soon fo

R&R and that the time spent was a good one. Our second banner should be arriving downrange any day now. We had great response, again from the f

lies, Thank you.

The FRG is continuing to have a very good turn out for our socials/meetings and our activities during the past several months. We have things

planned thru the end of the year and will start our welcome home planning in a few months. Thank you again, to the families and to the volunteers wh

help out. We appreciate everything you do for us. Please check out the FRG site at www.armyfrg.orgfor updates on meetings, Soldier of the month an

pictures.

If you have any questions or comments, we would love to hear from you. Our e-mail [email protected] the FRG at

[email protected].

Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels.

Charity LentFRG Leader

Dear Headhunter Families and Friends,

I can officially say that we have reached the 7 month mark of this deployment in Iraq and the temperatures here have finally dropped into th

double digits. Although most back home probably think that 90 degree temperatures are still hot, we here at Taji could not have asked for more comf

able temperatures.

It is also re-enlistment season and several Headhunters have decided to extend their service obligations. Those individuals include SGT Jame

Webster (S1), CPL Randal Shaffer (S3), SPC Brenton Grierson (Chaplain Assistant), SPC Stacy Jackson (Medic), and 1SG Raymundo Martinez, yes, First Se

geant!

Soldiers have been finding ways to build their morale throughout these past couple of months. There is no better way to let loose than to si

play instruments and dance and that is exactly what SPC Jackson, PFC Buck, and PVT Davis did at Taji Got Talent II. They put a lot of time and effort int

their performances and it showed.

Lastly, HHC hosted the Fighting Eagle Challenge on 24 October which included four events: push-ups, sit-ups, 4 mile ruck march, and a 2 mil

run. The winner of the Fighting Eagle Challenge was SSG Smiskey (E Co). He will receive an Army Achievement Medal (AAM) as well as a 4 days pass to

Freedom Rest in Victory Base Complex, Iraq. All other participants will receive a Battalion Certificate of Achievement. Congratulations to all the partic

pants: SGT Ochoa, SGT Owens, CPL Shaffer, SPC Johnson, SPC Strugnell, and SPC VanHouten (HHC), SGT Torres, SGT Rothermel, and PFC Gardner (D Co

SSG Smiskey, SPC Lopezguizbal and SPC Stahly (E Co).

As the season begins to change, so is the S1. They are starting to prepare training classes for new leaders and those who are working hard to

become one. The first training sessions will be on Promotions (Automated DA 3355 and the implementation of the new promotion system in June 201

Coordination will go through 1SG Martinez.

Amidst the seemingly endless monotony of threat reports, intelligence summaries, and constant briefs there was a bright spot in the S2 sect

this month. SPC Owens was officially promoted to Sergeant as of 01 October, but was recognized (and drenched with a generous amount of water wh

doing push-ups in the heat of the day) on 10 October. It was a well-deserved promotion and SGT Owens will continue to be an asset as he grows and d

velops further as an intelligence analyst. Otherwise, the section is continuing to improve operations and products in order to best serve the Battalion,

pilots, and daily missions. CPT Andraschko states, We are holding off on counting down to redeployment, but fortunately among the reports filling ou

minds we find solace in thoughts of home, family, and friends.

The S3 section continues to drive on seven months into the deployment. They continue to track aircraft throughout the entire country of Ira

and continue to track MEDEVAC coverage throughout our Battalion's footprint. SPC Rosa was recognized with a coin by the Sergeant Major of the Arm

(SMA), Kenneth Preston, for his outstanding performance within the shop. SPC Rosa works hard every day to ensure that all closeouts and required re

ports are done accurately and on time. On top of SPC Rosa being recognized by SMA, he was also selected as the Headhunter of the Month for Octobe

his senior leadership. Over half the soldiers in the S3 shop are continuing to further their education. This takes a lot out of their free time and shows t

dedication to furthering their education. All of the Soldiers within the S3 shop continue to put forth their best everyday to ensure mission success. Th

continue to prove that they are the best S3 section within the Brigade.

The S6 Section has completely integrated B/1-147th

into our footprint. They have successfully established a fully functional TOC for B/1-147.

The S6 section has also started thinking about redeployment by setting up a stand-alone computer and Terra-station to transfer information to the sta

Last, I would like to congratulate PFC Larry Albert and his family for their new baby girl, Lia Maria Albert born 20 September 2010.

With flu season well under way, the medical section has been hard at work administering flu vaccinations to all the Soldiers in the Battalion.

They are tracking and annotating who has received their shots and who still needs to. They are keeping themselves busy being available at all hours o

night due to the mandatory grounding for 12 hours for pilots and crews. On other days, they are participating in weekly classes, keeping their skills cu

rent through constant training.

I would like to thank our Headhunter family for their continued support throughout the deployment. As we fast approach the Holiday Seaso

would only hope your support grows even bigger than before. Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers.

HeadhuntCPT Jordan E
http://www.armyfrg.org/http://www.armyfrg.org/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.armyfrg.org/


7/18

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

7

a Company wraithsThe EAGLE EYE

Changes on the Horizon

By: CPT James Tesauro

While we all sit here at Taji, we are seeing many changes take place each day. Our friend the sun,has shortened his length in the sky over the desert, and the result is less hours during the day, which means

less light hours, which means NOT AS HOT! Alright, so now we are getting somewhere! The temperatures are

ranging now between high 60s to low 70s at night for lows, and the highs range now between 88 to 96. I

cannot begin to describe the difference in air temperature between July/August and now, mid October. This

has resulted in a huge upswing in morale, you have probably noticed it from your side of the pond too.

There is no daylight savings time in Iraq, so the hours stay the same, and our duty day hours are still

10-12 hours of work every day. However, the trend seems to be backing up a theory that the temperatures have a direct correlation between morale

improving. The mornings are cooler and it makes you wish that this type of weather will never end. The sky is now more times than not filled with clo

instead of tons of dust and haze like it was in the dog days two months ago. Along with the falling temperatures however, the rainy season is approach

shortly. The dust storms will be replaced by rain, which turns to mud, which makes each of us taller and weigh more for each step we take in the oily m

Soon our newsletters will be full of news about the mud, instead of the heat.

One thing that hasnt changed in the sky is the presence of our helicopters. We are as busy as ever and it isnt slowing down at all. Our teamhard at work and doing everything with flying colors, as usual. It is the same mission, with a few new places we frequent now, and spreading out on m

sions a little farther outside of Baghdad.

Our brothers and sisters in arms in the 1-147th

Wisconsin and Michigan National Guard are doing great, and have really helped in supporting

missions that we do daily. They have stepped up and done exactly what we knew they would, with excellence and professionalism. They now support

three VIP missions we fly and while we are the lead aircraft in all three, we are beginning to have them take lead so that they can get used to seeing th

mission as chalk one. There are positives in everything. The one positive we can take from that, is they are getting their pilots ready for when our repla

ing unit arrives, 1-147th

will be ready to show them the mission set. All that being said, it means we are getting that much closer to redeploying. Now

thats a positive!

Aside from the temperatures, the length of day and different flight routes, some things a little larger in scale are

changing. One very important aspect that has become a normal weekly event is our flights that are partnered wi

the Iraqi Aviation Battalion across the airfield to our east. For the last four weeks, CW2 Hutton and CW3 Burkett

have headed up the duty of Air Mission Commander for two missions each, flying with an Iraqi helicopter insteadanother one of ours. Assorted pilots are selected to fly with them, on these flights in and around Baghdad. The i

portance of these flights is such that it shows a growing relationship with the Iraqis here that we want to show w

are committed and dedicated to beginning and establishing a willing relationship with them that will last long afte

we are gone. It is important that they know that we as Americans will stand behind them in the rebuilding, hando

and future of their country that they love so much. Alpha Company pilots and crew chiefs as usual display their p

fessionalism and talent in what we do and it impresses the Iraqis and it shows in how they view us.

We, as a whole, here in A Co, have held down our own and completed the mission without fail. This family is as tight as ever and works toget

like a well oiled machine. In the seven months that we have been here, we have had some disruptions, some hardship, some rough patches for individ

and collectively, but we always came together to make mission happen and take care of each other, because that is what it is all about anyway, right?

Speaking of family, we in A Co welcome CW2 Marcellus and Mrs Hollie Wynns new baby girl Aubrey Wynn into the world with prayers, con-

gratulations and joy felt for her parents! Congrats to both of you and your family! We are so happy for you!

As time marches on, and the new units have arrived to support the eCAB, we have had to send four of our own,

two pilots, CW2 Wilson and CW3 Thomas, one door gunner, SGT Hensley and one crew chief, SGT Loper, south to Basra in

order to fly General Brooks on A2C2S missions, which are basically Command and Control missions. Once CW2 Wynn re-

turns off of leave, he will go down to Basra to replace CW3 Thomas. However, it is a temporary situation and they will be

returning to Taji in December-- just in time to start packing!

Over the course of the last seven months, the two weeks reprieve some of us have already taken for R&R leave

has served a great purpose in allowing us to see our families and friends back home and to just enjoy all that we have left

behind for this year. We come back refreshed, and sometimes upset because we had to leave for a second time, but know-

ing that the horizon is in sight, we are almost there. The mission is still there, and our eyes are firmly and deliberately fo-

cused on that, but we all know that in a few short months, we will be back with you all again. Soon, your heroes will have

returned and the trek across this last year will have been a distant memory, but one we here will cherish to have grown,

spent and lived through with each other.


8/18

8

The EAGLE EYEB company diesel

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Hello Bravo friends and families!

Fall is here, and I hope everyone is enjoying this gorgeous weather weve been having! The FRG has several things planned for the next few

months! We had a FRG meeting 7 October, where the kids decorated cupcakes, and we welcomed two new social chairs, Leigh Hrinda and Elizabeth Je

kins! Theyve already planned a Bravo Boo Bash on 29 October!

Our Bravo t-shirts turned out great! Thanks to all of you who ordered one. We plan on making sweatshirts and hoodies available soon, so

watch out for order forms!

Our FRG welcomes any and all ideas that you have regarding shirts, social events, play groups, activities, etc. Participation from families is es

sential to having a successful FRG. If you have questions, concerns, ideas.please send them [email protected].

Thanks to all of you for your support!

Allison Mardis: FRG Leader

Shiloh Varvais: FRG Advisor

The crew flying B Co. aircraft 88-00109 enjoys the cool air as it breezes through the cargo hatchdoor on the bottom of the Chinook it finally feels good. Laying half extended into that cargo hole is Sergeant

Trevor Johnson. As he looks below the looming aircraft, he begins to make his calls that maneuver the aircraft

over the cargo which will become the mission for the night. Over the intercom system you hear SGT Johnson,

continue back 20, back 15.10.5.4.3.2.1. CW2 Jason West listens intently, and explicitly follows SGT

Johnsons directions. SGT Johnson positions the aircraft directly over the load of an ISU 90 container. Aft

hook loaded..Forward hook loaded. SGT Johnson carefully paints a verbal picture for the pilots, who would

otherwise be hovering blindly over the sling-load. The Soldiers standing on top of the container reach up and

attach the sling legs to the forward and aft hooks of the 32 thousand pound aircraft hovering just inches above

their heads. Hook-up crew clear to the leftClear to come upSlings tight in 10..9..8..7..6..5..4..3..2..1 Slings tight, Clear to come up. SGT Johnson

tinues, SPC Joseph Bork and SPC Thaddeus Walz round out the crew providing additional clearances. They scan their sectors watching for any hazards

could frustrate the maneuver as the 100 foot aircraft becomes a precision instrument. The crew brings the load up to a ten-foot hover and after a

systems and power checks, the aircraft lifts into the evening sky away from the little FOB south of Baghdad. This snapshot is a powerful example o

skill demanded from the Soldiers of Bravo. Despite long hours, your Soldiers continue to complete challenging missions every day and night throug

Iraq.

An exciting event that does not occur every day is the addition of new members to the team. CW2 Mather, SPC McLellan, and SPC Bragg a

three new members to Diesel with the births of their children: Christopher, Gabriella, and Evan. Luckily, they were all able to be home and it mad

very exciting leave. Also exciting is seeing SPC Andrew Wilson up and flying after running a gauntlet of signatures to get his Flight Physical Up-Sli

proved. As we have pretty much figured out how to operate day to day, we have also been able to do some fun stuff as a group.

Another group that has recently blessed us with their presence is the Directorate of Evaluations and Standards (DES). These are also know

the people that come and test us on everything we do. They will spend about two weeks with us helping to ensure that we stay on track and within

standards. They will also inform us of good things we are doing so we can maintain as well as suggest ideas that other units have used to help the

successful. Hopefully our ideas and procedures are good enough that they pass it to other units.

A new Tactic, Technique, and Procedure, (a military term for methods used), we have started is, having a company meeting twice a month.

Marshall and crew jumped on the opportunity by firing up the grill and getting the burgers and buns out for everyone. Who is that guy? CW2 Pa

said jokingly about some of the crewmembers on the opposite shift than himself. The burgers were great and the company was even better. Severalsel members mingled around after the meeting for quite some time to catch up with the opposite shift.

Oh yeah, and as it is always a popular topic, the weather is getting remarkably cooler. There is once again cool water in the showers instea

just hot and really hot. It hasnt quite gotten cold enough for jackets and other cold weather gear, but that may just be around the corner, which

sound bad, as it probably wont get below 60 degrees.

Forty-five minutes later, the crew of 109 starts their descent for landing into the Baghdad landing zone. By now, the sun has set and the co

swirling around the aircraft has amazingly a slight chill. Diesels efficient delivery kept Soldiers and their supplies off the road. Staying away from

roads equates to safety in a place like Iraq. Bravo Company proudly serves fellow Soldiers in this way.

Now on the downhill side of the deployment, we start planning for getting our property transported home.

Lastly, but certainly not least, thanks to everyone for the support and care packages. We would especially like to thank CW2 Matt Re

mother and father, Toysan and Gary Reed. They thoughtfully got together and sent out a care package to every Soldier in Bravo Company. The supp

great and it is getting to be very exciting to be on the downhill.


9/18

9

The EAGLE EYEc Company boomer

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

CommanderBoomer Family,

As predicted, October brought cooler weather and new babies! I hope that you all had a

safe and Happy Halloween. I would like to congratulate the Henderson, Thompson, and Graham

families on their new arrivals. Micah Henderson, Jack Graham, and Madelyn Thompson are healthy

and doing well. I would also like to welcome SGT Matthew Russell, SPC Marc Borgia, and SPC Brian

Terry to the unit. They are welcome additions to Boomer Dustoff, and have been doing a great job

since arriving.

Football season has also been highly anticipated. The Sunday and Monday morning

meetings can be a little tense however depending on if your team won or lost. Its all in good fun

though. Your Soldiers continue to perform their jobs well and remain in good spirits.

As we roll into the holiday season, our thoughts are with our families, but our minds are on our work. Thanksgiving is all about giving thanks

I would like to thank all the Soldiers and families for their dedication to duty and continued support to achieving our mission. I hope that your Thanksgi

is filling and spent in good company. May your Black Friday shopping experience be filled with great finds and free stuff a t the door! If you are plannon sending your Soldier something special for Christmas, please do so early enough to ensure its arrival in theater. The Postal officials here are recomm

ing that you have your packages sent by 17 November to ensure receipt prior to December 25th

.

Sincerely ,

MAJ Sam Fricks

Boomer 6

First Sergeant

Another beautiful day has come and gone and with it we are closer to the end of another

month. We have reached several points in the deployment that everyone was looking forward to;

the change in weather and Football season. It means we are getting closer to coming home and

getting back in touch with the people we love. Not one day goes by that I dont hear conversations

from Soldiers talking about their family members or significant others. We have a couple Soldiers

walking around with small photo albums showing off their family pictures and bringing smiles to allaround them.

Rest assured that your love ones here in Iraq continue to make it do what it do in providing emergency medical care and transportation to

higher care. We do it safely and better than any other unit in Theater. Although things are quieter, we still have to maintain and not become complace

with our surroundings. We continue to train at each Team Site and are mission ready at all times. To ensure training does not become monotonous we

spice it up with different scenarios and facilitators.

The weekends continue to be important days here. With the exception of Religious services on Sunday, the weekend provides the Soldiers wi

Football fever. So far Kansas (college) and the Dallas Cowboys have provided most of the Soldiers with some excitement with their losing streak. We ha

our own teams we follow but most of us are fans of anyone who beats the Cowboys and Kansas. We also have the Baseball playoff and rivalry between

Galloways Rangers and everyone elses Yankees. So far SGT Galloway is standing tall. Lol

The CDR and I continue to be proud of the accomplishments of our Soldiers and their Family members. We have a mix breed of personalities make the Boomer Team/Family unique and talented. We continue to surmount anything that comes our way and we do it as a team and we do it well.

the 1SG, I am humble and Blessed to have a company that continues to do more with less while others do less with more. Know that we couldnt do it w

out the Love and admiration of our Spouses, Significant others, and kids back home. The Love of our Family members keeps the Boomer heart healthy

pumping strong.

Boomer Families & Friends,

As I was getting ready to log onto the FRG email, the opening page on AKO said What makes the Army Strong? People. And the same really

holds true for the FRG as well. We would not be able to function as an FRG without your support. Thank you!!

The FRG has been busy planning for a Thanksgiving potluck dinner. All families are invited to join us on November 13, 6 8 pm at the Ogden

Community Center for the Thanksgiving dinner. The FRG will be providing the turkey and ham and ask that you bring your family favorite to share!

If you have any questions about anything, please dont hesitate to contact us ([email protected]).

Terri Tullis & LeeAnn Swartz
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


10/18


11/18

11

The EAGLE EYEc Company boomer

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Team Kirkuk

Life is good here in Kirkuk. We gladly welcome the cooler weather and clear blue skies as we em-bark on the final months of the deployment! Not much has changed with the advent of Operation New Dawn

we are still ready to respond within a moments notice when needed, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for any

MEDEVAC mission. We conduct training on a daily basis and we have helped the Air Forces Kirkuk Expedi-

tionary Medical Detachment conduct partnership training with fel low Iraqi medical personnel in the local

area.

SGT Dickson, SGT Rapp, and SGT Jellison all celebrated birthdays this month. We welcomed crew-

chief SPC Long from Speicher, and we said goodbye to SGT Shippee as he left for Speicher. With the out-

standing weather, we have been outside passing the football, throwing the softball, and sitting outside of our

housing units reading and hanging out when off duty. We have an Oktoberfest BBQ planned for the 23rd

of

October when SGT Giersdorf and the crew will grill up some ribs, steaks, and hot dogs. We greatly miss everyone at home, and we thank you for all yo

are doing to support us while we are gone.

Team Talafar

Theres no doubt that winter is right around the corner. At FSMT 4 (Tal Afar) we are anticipating the in-

coming weather changes. Soon enough we will be wearing our cold weather gear and flight fleeces during our

morning routine and missions. The climate transformation is met with open arms by some and a feeling of misery

by others.

We welcomed two Soldiers back to Team 4 recently. CPT Henderson and SGT Littlefield had been on R&R

leave since mid-late September. CPT Henderson and his wife, Liz, brought their f irst child into the world last month.

Micah David Henderson was born September 28th

, weighing 9.7 pounds 13.7 ounces, 20.8 inches long. We wish

them both the best and a quick redeployment.

The mission load has been very low at Tal Afar. With that being said, there is plenty of time and opportunity for training of all types. Weekly

classes are a constant, as well as flight proficiency training on a regular basis. Medics are still conducting re-certification classes every Thursday, and pi

call continues to set the standard for the rated aviators. Cold-load training has been conducted with the fire department and the clinic personnel. This

helps prepare the firemen for an actual emergency, and the clinic for an urgent patient movement.

With the inclement weather inbound, everyone knows what time of the year it is. Influenza vaccinations are in stock at your local TMC, and e

ryone needs it. Team 4 will be complete in the next few days. The rainy season tends to bring its own complications with it. Standing water and mud ar

the norm during this season, so ensure youre protecting yourself from mosquitoes by using

bug spray and traps. CW2 Dean, SSG McGhee, and SPC Garcia helped create a raised walk-

way behind the woody, connecting multiple facilities. Improvement projects are on the rise

and help to make the residents more comfortable and at home.

As October fades into the past, Soldiers realize that they are one month closer to

going home and seeing their loved ones. Keeping their mind on the present is what keepsthem motivated and makes the days go by faster than imaginable. Days turn into weeks.

Weeks turn into months. Time blurs when the routine is uninterrupted, but every once in a

while its nice to break the monotony.


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C- 7/101 eagleThe EAGLE EYE ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Greetings to the Demon Brigade family and friends,

Another month has passed and we find ourselves nearing the last of our deployment. Each

site around Iraq has been busy preparing for the upcoming RIP/TOA. We look forward to the arrival

of C/3-126 from the Vermont and Massachusetts National Guard. We know theyll do an out-

standing job and look forward to their success. Critical tasks such as preparing academics classes for

the new arrivals to loading MILVANS and conducting inventories has been meticulously planned and

executed. Each Soldier has an important piece of the mission as we prepare for our replacement

company.

Over the past month, we had the privilege of promoting PFC Ethan Jefferson to Specia

He is an excellent crewchief and we look forward to watching him become a vital asset to the c

pany as he develops his leadership skills. Congratulations! In the near future, we will be sendingseveral exceptional Soldiers to the promotion board. After conducting several mock boards and

quizzing each Soldier at every possible opportunity, we know they are ready for the challenge a

look forward to hearing their results. Congratulations to them as well.

Recently at COS Kalsu, Eagle Dustoff has been involved in the Relief-in-Place/ Transfer

of Authority (RIP/TOA) of the 3rd

Infantry Division with the arrival of the 3rd

Armored Cavalry

Regiment. The Soldiers at the aid station have been busy developing their techniques and have

been doing an excellent job. To help develop their skills as medics, SSGs McGowan and Adams

have been busy conducting weekly hot/cold load training with each medical treatment platoon.

This training has been extremely valuable as it expedites the process of getting patients loaded

onto the aircraft in the event of a MEDEVAC mission. We look forward to working with theseSoldiers and paving the way for our future replacements.

As we draw close to the end of our tour, we would like to thank our families and

friends for providing continuous support throughout the past year. We truly could not hav

done it without you. Eagle Dustoff will continue to stand ready to accomplish the mission

until the last day.

Eagle Dustoff and Air Assault!

CPT Dusty King

Section Leader


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13

The EAGLE EYE ISSUE 6, NOVEMBERd Company roughnecks

Hello Roughnecks!

The FRG has been busy here at FT Riley; hope our families living outside of the local area have been busy too! Its actually hard NOT to be bu

right now with school in full swing, holidays approaching, and enjoying the cool weather.

Thanks to Crystal Floeck for opening her home to host the Yard Sale the first weekend of October and to everyone who helped, baked, and d

nated, we appreciate any help we get. Our Chili lunch is coming up too, thanks to all who plan on helping at that as well.

Congratulations to my co-leader, Tammy Oxenford, for her recognition at the BN Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony. Good work!

We will not be having a meeting in November, but will be having a Spouse Social. Look for further details in an email. Our next official FRG m

ing will be held December 14 in the Yellow Ribbon Room. Hope to see you come out!

Happy Turkey Day!

Miki Fett

D Co FRG Leader

Greetings Roughneck Families!

October passed quickly and the Roughnecks have continued to provide outstanding maintenance support

to a mission that is helping to write history. Every day, D Co maintainers have worked hard to ensure 22 helicopters

launch out on 12 different missions, moving people and equipment across the battlefield. The companys mechanics

and component repair specialists also routinely leave Camp Taji to work on 20 MEDEVAC aircraft scattered at 7 dif-

ferent locations. Some days are busier than others, but each day presents a new challenge that the Roughneck team

has overcome.

October brought some fresh faces to Delta Company. SFC Mikeral

Curry joined the company after spending some time as an instructor at Fort

Eustis and he immediately took the reins of the demanding Maintenance

Floor Supervisor position. Maintenance platoon also gained four Chinook

mechanics - SPC David, SPC Disney, SPC Rowe, and PFC Dennhardt - and two

Blackhawk mechanics PFC Asis and PFC Bouolivera. Shops platoon added

PFC Davis to the avionics section, and Headquarters gained SGT Arias in the

Tech Supply shop. We couldnt be happier to have these new members of

the Roughneck team.

Weve also gotten to put some newer rank on the chests of some of our older (comparatively) Soldiers. On

September 1st

, avionics wizard SGT Chad Bloomfield received a Battlefield Promotion to the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Battlefield promotions were common during WWII, but the program ended after Vietnam and only recently re-

started. The program is designed to recognize and promote Soldiers for extraordinary performance of duties while

serving in combat or under combat conditions. SSG Bloomfield was the first Soldier in the Brigade to receive a Bat-

tlefield Promotion. The Roughnecks also recently promoted twelve hard-charging PFCs to the rank of Specialist

Thomas Ashcraft, Eric Anslinger, Travis Bennett, Eric Carter, Matthew Crespin, Travis Eubank, Jacob Hurst, Daniel

Phelps, James Roache, William Roark, Xavier Rodriguez (aka X-Rod), and Adam Rose. Congratulations to all!

With Halloween approaching (as I write), I figured Id mention an odd character whose made an osional appearance in the D Co area. Known as The White Ninja, his origins and identity are unknown. This

character is known to frighten Soldiers (SPC Quinones thought he saw a ghost) and harass the Companys le

ership, but has not been spotted recently. While many claim the White Ninja is dead, or perhaps never live

the mystery has yet to be solved.

Thank you for all the continued support from back home. Your Soldiers are an amazing group of people wh

continue to impress. As always, dont hesitate to contact myself ([email protected]) or Miki

([email protected]) with any questions or concerns.

CPT Garret Fett

Roughneck 6
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


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14

The EAGLE EYEe Company hellbenders

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Hello to the Friends and Families,Well we can finally see that we have made it through the summer. This month we had our first days that the high has not reac

over 100 degrees and everyone here has greatly appreciated it. By the time you read this we will be going through our eighth month of

deployment. We have continued to give the Battalion outstanding support in every aspect, from running the forward refueling point, is

ing flares, distributing water, and performing maintenance on all ground equipment. We are continuously ready for any mission. Our S

diers are dedicated to the unit and committed to the mission. While we have continued to provide our unparalleled support to the bat

ion we have also started enjoying the cooler weather.

The Company has a flag football team. The team has practice games on Sundays. The Company also participated in a softball t

nament. We did not win the tournament but the Soldiers that participated had a lot of fun. The games were fun to watch and let the So

diers relax. SPC Fasano was the Driving force behind the Softball team. He organized the team and attended the coaches meetings. Ou

plan is to continue to try and have both flag football and softball practices once a week. This will give a better chance to win the next to

nament we enter. Some of our Soldiers are also going to compete in a Brigade challenge called Demon Fury and the winners will receive

host of accolades, recognition, and even get to wear the title of Brigade NCO and Soldier of the Year. We have a team that w ill compet

an event prepared by and planned for the Sustainers and Maintainers too. This event will be conducted by 601st

FSB and will consist of

changing a truck tire, driving a truck with trailer, operating a fork lift, setting up a four point fuel system and sling loading fuel bags.

On another note, the Soldiers in the Maintenance platoon moved quickly and used their resources to assist in securing a maint

nance tent that tried to Blow away. They used a forklift to pull the tent back down and moved the wrecker closer so they could use it a

anchor point. They moved the sand bags and reattached the tent to the stakes in the concrete. Our Soldiers showed a lot of resourcefu

ness while executing this mission.

As you can see we are staying busy but trying to have a little bit of fun along the way. We will continue to stay focused on com

pleting the mission and returning home to our loved ones.

Until next time, Hellbender 6-Out.

SGT Dwayne Quinn keeps his eye on the ball in anticipati

for a touchdown catch.

SGT Quinn surveys the field for an open receiver.


15/18

15

The EAGLE EYEf Company phantoms

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Greetings Phantom family

Here we are again coming from the desert of Iraq. Your Phantom warriors are busy controlling the skies a

providing maintenance at three different locations. Our foot print across theater allows us to play a major part in

the success of supporting the enhanced Combat Aviation Brigade. I encourage pride when you think of the Phant

family as our efforts here continue to push the mission into its final five months of its course. The Phantoms have

been successful in controlling over 170,000 aircraft movements collectively without accident or incident. Our spir

are high and the morale is at its optimal position. Excitement fills the air as we think of all that we have accom-

plished over here and where we are headed in our future. We can see the finish line in our grasp, however we co

tinue to steady the course and not get ahead of ourselves.

CPT Polen is currently taking a well deserved break from the fight and visiting with the newest member of

the Phantom family. 30 September 2010 was a proud day for us as the world welcomed Lukas Alan Polen to its

numbers. Congratulations to the Polen family for their new addition. Good news continues to flow as the Army re

ceives the expertise of three Phantom Soldiers who have sworn the oath of reenlistment to serve this great coun

and continue the Phantom ways. SSG(P) Arteaga and SSG Pezzi have decided to continue their military success in-

definitely while SPC Walker has decided to stay with the Army for a few more years. This experience will continue

make the Army a better organization.

SSG Salmond has displayed her many talents during a Tajis Got Talent show which pro-

vided rare entertainment for the entire post to enjoy. She expressed her talents by organizing the

entire show with the help of SPC Jackson, a former Phantom. The show produced a total of 15acts and allowed Soldiers, civilian contractors, and Ugandans to showcase their talents. The coor-

dination allowed the show to take place flawlessly and brought smiles and lifted spirits to every-

one that showed up and participated.

As we continue our successful ways all of your Phantoms continue to be successful and

look forward to coming home to you soon. Keep supporting us with your phone calls, emails, care

packages, and letters. Soon this mission will end and the rush to get back home will begin. Until that day, stay

strong and continue to press forward.

CW2 Freeman, Robert

SPC McKay receiving a Certificate of

Achievement from 3ID at COB Speich

SSG Pezzi and SSG Wise excelling in the Army.

Promotion Day!


16/18

16

The EAGLE EYE2- 1 G s a b r e a r d e t a c h m e n t

I SSUE 6, NOVEMBER

Greetings Fighting Eagle Families,

Wow, Thanksgiving and the Holiday season is right around the corner! I would like to remind you that if you are

planning on leaving your home of residence for the Holiday season, to please contact our FRSA, or your FRG Leader

to give your departure information. Therefore, if there is any emergency or any reason we need to contact you,

we will be able to reach you during it.

Last month the Fighting Eagles were proud to have five outstanding volunteers who were nominated and pre-

sented with awards at the Combat Aviation Brigade Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony. Our volunteers recognized

were Terri Tullis (C Company), Melissa Tyson (E Company), Tammy Oxenford (D Company), Melissa Hendrix (A

Company), and Pam McKay (F Company). Thank you again, and to everybody else who makes our community a

better place.

On November 20th, beginning at 1000, the GSAB is hosting an All Wheels Day at the 2-1 Hangar. All families are invited, and kids and families are in

to bring their bikes, trikes, or other type wheeled rides. Food and drinks will be provided. Additionally we will be filling stockings with goodies to ship t

our Soldiers in Iraq for the Holidays.

Lastly, Id like to remind you about the importance of OPSEC. Although we know an approximate timelin

that our Soldiers will be returning, please keep that information only to those that need to know. Additioif you hear any rumors from Soldiers, friends, or anyone else, they arent necessarily true. If you have que

tions about any of them, please confirm with either

Rear Detachment or your FRG Leaders. A common

rumor we are hearing right now is that the CAB is

returning this Holiday season. This is just a rumor,

the timeline remains as previously published,

where we can expect a March timeframe.

Thank you again, and we wish you a great Thanks-

giving.

CPT Ormson, Terrell

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Families and Soldiers of the Fighting Eagles.

We certainly have a lot to be thankful for this holiday. We have been blessed that we have not had a loss of life or equipment to this point. will continue to pray for the safety and well being of all our Fighting Eagles. With the start of the holiday season, there is a lot going on.

In November Manhattan has its annual Veterans Day parade on 11 November. You can find more information at: http://

www.flinthillsveteransday.com/. On 20 November the Fighting Eagle Families will have an All wheels party in the hangar. We will prep holiday packa

and enjoy free food. Kids can bring their non-motorized wheels to run around (bikes, tricycles, scooters, roller blades/skates, etc). For more informa

contact your company FRG Leader. Junction City will host its annual Christmas parade on 26 November. You can view more information at: http://

www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542. Other events include the Military Family appreciation dinner on the 19th

of November and the Tur

2-miler on the 20th

. You can get more information from your FRG Leader for all future events.

Congratulations to our 5 Volunteer of the Quarter awardees! Melissa Hendrix, Terri Tullis, Tammy Oxenford, Melissa Tyson, and Pam McKay

The Fighting Eagle families appreciate all the hard work and sacrifice you do to make our lives easier.

Recently, about 90 family members enjoyed a Halloween dinner and a free pumpkin from the pumpkin patch party at Munson Farms. A big

thank-you to ASYMCA and Munson Farms for their continued support to the Fighting Eagles. You can view photos on the VFRG website.

As with anytime, ensure if you are leaving the area for Thanksgiving; please complete a departure notification so that if the command needed to contyou, they would know your location. Have a Blessed and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday.

Blessings,

Brenda Werner BN FRG Co-Leader
http://www.flinthillsveteransday.com/http://www.flinthillsveteransday.com/http://www.flinthillsveteransday.com/http://www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542http://www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542http://www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542http://www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542http://www.junctioncity.org/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=542http://www.flinthillsveteransday.com/http://www.flinthillsveteransday.com/


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ISSUE 6, NOVEMBERThe EAGLE EYE


18/18

ISSUE 6, NOVEMBERThe EAGLE EYE

2010 Holiday Mail Dates

Destination 09378 (Camp Taji)

Express 1st Class Priority PAL SAM Parcel Post

Not offered 04 Dec 2010 04 Dec 2010 01 Dec 2010 20 Nov 2010 12 Nov 2010

To ensure delivery of holiday cards and packages by Dec. 25

MAIL COMING FROM THE STATES TO A MILITARY APO/FPO

addressed for overseas, the Postal Service recommends that

it be sent no later than the mailing dates listed below:

1/ EMMS is available to selected military post offices. Check with your local Post Office to determine if this service is

available to an APO/FPO address.

2/ PAL is a service that provides air transportation for parcels on a space-available basis. It is available for Parcel Post

items not exceeding 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth combined. The applicable PAL fee must be

paid in addition to the regular surface rate of postage for each addressed piece sent by PAL service.

3/ SAM parcels are paid at Parcel Post postage rate of postage with maximum weight and size limits of 15 pounds and

60 inches in length and girth combined. SAM parcels are first transported domestically by surface and then to overseas

destinations by air on a space-available basis.

the eagle eye-nov 2010

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