FRONTLINEServing the Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield communities (www.stewart.army.mil) May 17, 2007

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit no. 43,

Hinesville, Ga. 31314

Vol. 41, Issue 18

Kicking around inIraq, Soldiers learnself-defense, Seepage 1C

Iraqi customslearned at NTC,See Page 12A

Soldier Showcoming toStewart,

Hunter, SeePage 1B

Check out the week-end activities atStewart, Hunter

See pages 6A, 2B

THE

Spc. Ricardo Branch1st BCT Public Affairs

RAMADI, Iraq – The work is underwayto establish a safe perimeter aroundthe city, as part of the 1st BrigadeCombat Team’s plan to stop insurgentsfrom easily returning to the city.

The latest security effort is beingheaded by Soldiers from C Company

C, 9th Engineer Battalion, who con-structed a new checkpoint on RouteMichigan, April 10 in western Ramadi.

“We’re standing up an entry controlpoint on one of the main roads forRamadi,” said Sgt. Bryan Burgin. “ThisECP will allow the Iraqi army and Iraqipolice to set up a checkpoint, so theycan control what comes in and out ofthe city.”

1BCT Engineerssecure perimeter

See PERIMETER Page 10A

Special to the Frontline

The Army Emergency Relief cam-paign concluded May 15 with excep-tional results for the 3rd InfantryDivision.

The goal for this year’s campaignwas to raise more than $125,000 tohelp Soldiers and Families.

Frederick Sledge, ArmyCommunity Services AER officer,said the community raised morethan $269,000.

Soldiers and Families can use themoney for a variety of needs includ-ing food, rent, utilities, emergency

transportation, vehicle repair, orpersonal needs if pay is delayed orstolen, or property is lost in a disas-ter.

Sledge said the community cametogether to achieve the goal, withretirees contributing more than$76,000 to this years AER campaign.

AER provides the funds to Soldiersin interest free loans and grants. Italso offers undergraduate scholar-ships to the children of Soldiers andretirees.

AER is a private nonprofit organi-zation chartered in 1942 to helpSoldiers take care of their own.

3rd Inf. Div, Fort Stewart,Hunter exceed AER goal

Spc. Ben Hutto

Two 3/1 Cav. Soldiers inspect a vehicle in the Four Corners Market District during a cordonsearch of the area May 3.

Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Mills

A CH-47 Chinook helicopter from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment flies over thedesert during training in Kuwait. See story on Page 15A.

Kevin LarsonChief, Public Communications

Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, Task Force Marnecommander, took time last week to talk tolocal media about the conditions he and hisSoldiers are experiencing in Iraq.

The 3rd Infantry Division commandertalked to reporters via video teleconference onMay 10, briefing them on the situation on theground in the Iraqi battle space under his con-trol.

Security in the Multi-National Division-Center has taken a step toward the better.There has been a reduction in secretarian vio-lence in the area, Lynch said. Continuedpatience and time, is needed, however, toensure victory.

“We will be victorious,” Lynch said. “Theissue is how long will it take. What I’m seeingalready is improvements in the security situa-tion in our battle space.”

“We see Sunni and Shia working togetherfor the common good,” he said.

CG briefs local media

See VTC Page 13A

CAB arrCAB arr ivives es in Kin Kuwuwait!ait!

Pat YoungFrontline Staff

Transition is part of the job for the3220th Garrison Support Unit as theyhelp Soldiers prepare for deployment,redeployment or separation. Althoughthey perform their duties with prideand professionalism, some transitionscome with mixed emotions.

Some of those emotions were sharedat the 3220th GSU Medical RetentionBattalion Change of CommandCeremony, May 10 at Fort Stewart inthe Marne Gardens. The ceremonywitnessed the outgoing commander,Lt. Col. Shawn Rasmussen, as heturned over the unit’s colors and mis-sion to the incoming commander, Lt.Col. Leonard C. Porter.

3220th changescommand, notSoldier service

See CHANGE PAGE 3A

Three former Fort Stewart commandershave been nominated by the President forpromotion to brigadier general, accordingto Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates.

Col. Steven L. Salazar, Col Joseph P.Disalvo and Col. Brian R. Layer are amonga host of colonels selected to pin on the BGrank.

Salazar is currently serving as comman-der, Operations Group, National TrainingCenter, Headquarters, Operations Group,Fort Irwin, Calif. Salazar is a former com-

mander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rdInfantry Division, out of Fort Benning, Ga.

Disalvo is serving as chief, plans and pol-icy, Iraq Division, J-5, The Joint Staff,Washington, D.C. He is a former comman-der of 2d BCT, 3rd Inf. Div., Fort Stewart,Ga.

Layer is executive officer to the deputychief of staff, G-4, Washington, D.C. He is aformer commander of 3rd SustainmentBrigade, 3rd Inf. Div. and Division SupportBrigade.

Former commanders nominated for promotion

2A Frontline May 17, 2007 3rd Infantry Division

Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch3rd Inf. Div. commanding general

If you have ever lived in a city with“gangs,” you know it’s a problem. Thesigns are prominent. There is graffiti,crime, distinctive gang dress or “colors,”and ritualistic behaviors. Gangs arenothing new and they manifest them-selves in every dark corner of our world.

Iraq has its share of gangs. So too doesAfghanistan. The extremist behaviorsexhibited by our enemies here are verysimilar to the behaviors of violent gangsat home in the U.S.

Thankfully, this is not the conditionwe have in our home in the Coastal

Empire of southeast Georgia.I can say for certain that our home is

not a home to gangs. They are not wel-comed and their culture is contrary tothe lifestyle of our Army.

In places where gangs thrive, you seebreak-ins, vandalism and car theft. Youmight also see rampant drug use, prosti-tution, physical assault, and murder.Our Fort Stewart and Hunter ArmyAirfield have largely been spared fromthis sort of crime.

At Fort Stewart and Hunter ArmyAirfield we are a home to Families whohave placed the good of our nationabove their own. We are members of anoble profession with honorable tradi-

tions and values. We are in every waycontrary to the culture of gangs.

We are neighbors to two great commu-nities in Hinesville and Savannah. Andwe do share concerns with these greatcities especially when it comes to thequality of life of our citizens. We sharethe goals of both cities’ leaders to makeour shared streets safe for children.

If you observe crime, report it to themilitary police. If you suspect that yourchild is a member of a gang, confront theissue or seek help from advocacy groupsor a chaplain on and off the installation.

Let’s keep our home free of thescourge of gang behavior. Take a stand.ROCK OF THE MARNE!

Marne 6 Sends

The

Stay aware, help stop gang behavior

Museum introduces monthly changing exhibitsSasha McBrayerSpecial History Projects Officer

With the month of May springs an exciting change forthe Fort Stewart Museum. The brainchild of museumintern, Jasmine High, the museum staff is proud to unveila series of new exhibits, which will change every month.

High comes to Fort Stewart from George WashingtonUniversity in Washington, D.C.; one of the foremost col-leges offering museum studies courses. Though she is setto return to D.C. and finish up her masters degree as soonas May 20, her three month duration on Stewart has beenhighly productive. After completing an extensive collec-tions overhaul it became a goal of Miss High's to help themuseum attract new visitors.

Throughout my studies at George WashingtonUniversity, I have found that the concept of changing tem-porary exhibits is vital to any museum. Although a perma-nent exhibit can remain static for years, it is important tochange out exhibits regularly to allow the museum to dis-play a variety of their artifacts. A museum needs to regu-larly provide new information to their audience, as this willkeep visitors engaged and educated," says High. She wasdrawn to interning on Stewart because her brother, amember of the Marne Division, is currently serving in Iraq.The project also gave the intern a chance to learn exhibitdesign and fabrication.

There are two new exhibits thus far, with plans to imple-

ment more underway. The museum's Warrior's Walk dis-play got a new look. The museum collects a sampling fromthe items left at the walk by well-wishers. These becomepermanent in the Army's collection and serve as a recordof grieving Americans preserved for generations to come.The collection spans over 300 objects.

Now, the Fort Stewart Museum plans to spotlight onefallen Soldier's tree every month. A photo of the Soldier isshown along with an artifact discovered at his or her treeand a brief bio. Soldiers are chosen randomly, however themonthly change will allow a variety of objects fromWarrior's Walk to be displayed turn by turn. The collectionis simply too large to show all at once in the gallery's limit-ed space. It also gives the staff the opportunity to give duereverence to one hero at a time.

For the month of May, Spc. David H. Ford, IV is the sub-ject of the Warrior's Walk spotlight. Displayed are, a largetoy tank, signed by those who miss him, as well as a Familyphoto.

The second exhibit is also found at the tail end of theThird Division story near the new Warrior's Walk Exhibit. Itis made of three special panels. One welcomes visitors tomeet their museum staff. The second reveals the Rock ofthe Marne's presence on the Web and will continue tomonthly expound upon a special topic related to theDivision. The last panel celebrates Asian-Pacific Heritagemonth.

The Fort Stewart Museum is the long white building sur-rounded by historical military vehicles, which sits acrossfrom the main shoppette on Frank Cochran Drive. Insideare two main galleries; one focused upon installation his-tory, and one dedicated to Third Division history. There isalso a conference room, which accommodates about 25,available for booking to Soldiers and their Families. Asidefrom maintaining and displaying military artifacts, muse-um staff collects history as it happens. They also welcomein-processing Soldiers to help orient them with the proudheritage that comes along with their new patch like aninvisible mantel.

Walter Meeks, III is the director of the museum andmakes final decisions on the matter of donations. Civiliansand Soldiers alike are always asking whether they candonate artifacts, and the answer is yes, but a powwow withthe director determines whether the object belongs withour museum or not. Division Historian Dr. Judith Brownalso has her office at the museum and has a wealth of his-torical knowledge. We encourage everyone to come outand enjoy our new exhibits today!

Sasha McBrayerFort Stewart Museun

Volume one, number 30 of the Third Division's"Front Line" newspaper was released May 12, 1945in Munich, Germany. The paper's masthead includ-ed the subtitle, "French Morocco –Tunisia –Sicily–So. Italy –Anzio –Rome –France –Germany–Austria", in a font that looked pretty close to carefulhand lettering.

A story on the front page below the fold boasted,"Act of Mercy Almost Ends In PW Cage". It read asfollows:

An act of mercy, far beyond the call of normal duty,took a battalion surgeon and his assistants into aGerman town before any Americans had been there.

A priest rowed across the river from a Germanheld town occupied by the battalion. In turn, thispriest came to see Capt. George Yarnall of Carlisle,Pa., and asked him if he would consent to go acrossthe river to the town to treat some wounded civil-ians. The priest stated that all the German doctorshad fled with the Soldiers. There were still a fewSoldiers left in the town and they had given the priestpermission to come across the river to bring a doc-tor.

Take VolunteersPermission was granted to the "Doc…if he wanted

to take the chance". Sgt. Elmer Shepard, Bronx, N.Y.,

and Pfc. Emil Lander of Greenway, S.D., volunteeredand with Capt. Yarnell started for the river. 1st Lt.Dante A. Conte, Bronx, N.Y., came up and told the"Doc" that he was going along just to see that allwent well. The Lt. pulled his combat jacket uparound his neck to hide the crossed rifles (infantry)and had a walking stick in his hand.

Says "Like Hell"On the opposite bank, the party was met by two

German soldiers and was led to the wounded civil-ians. During the walk through the streets, a numberof German soldiers were observed, but the ThirdDivision men were unmolested.

When they were finished and preparing to leave,Pfc. Ladner, who understands and speaks theGerman language, overheard the [German] soldiersdiscussing whether they should take the Americansprisoner or not.

"Like hell you'll take us prisoner. Your people herehave caused us enough worry," he spoke up imme-diately [in German]. The [German] soldiers turnedtheir heads and didn't say another word. The partywas led back to the boat and rowed safely to its ownshore.

The article, along with the others in the newspa-per, does not cite a specific author; however the early"Front Line" had a substantial group of writers underthe supervision of the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2,and Public Relations Officer Capt. Hollis Limprecht.

Sgt. Ben Brody

Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, 3rd Inf. Div commander, promotesMaster Sgt. Cassandra Tribune, division chaplain assistantNCOIC, to Sergeant Major in front of Task Force MarneHeadquarters, May 15.

Uncommon Act of Mercy, WWIIA Moment in History

Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo

Col. Todd Buchs, the Fort Stewart and Hunter ArmyAirfield garrison commander recognized the achieve-ments of the 3220th, which activated in April 2003 and

partnered with Stewart and the 3rd Infantry Divisionduring Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The Medical Retention Battalion was called upon tohelp injured Soldiers to ensure they received optimalcare in order to either rejoin their units, or transition tocivilian life.

“The fine Soldiers of both the Medical RetentionBattalion and Mobilization and Operation Center havebenefited greatly by the superb leadership of Lt. Col.Shawn Rasmussen over the last two years,” Buchs said.“(He) has skillfully transformed the medical retentionprocessing unit into one that is respectful and commit-ted to the warriors in transitions, and their needs.”

Buchs said it is a testament to Rasmusen’s leadershipand the professionalism of the unit that helped trans-form the unit to an Army standard bearer of excellencefor the MPUs in the United States.

Buchs said farewell to Rasmussen and his Family. Hewished them well as Rasmussen demobilized after twoyears of service at Fort Stewart.

Rasmussen will return to his employment with MerrillLynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Corporation as a certi-fied financial planner in Jupiter, Fla.

But Buchs recognized that the unit would continue inexcellence due to both the units professionalism, and theinsightful leadership of the incoming commander Lt. ColPorter. He welcomed Porter and his Family as theyjoined the team coming from the 3220th GSU in WestPalm Beach Fla.

Porter, a native of Kansas City, Mo, started his militarycareer when he enlisted in July 1966 to serve in Vietnam.He received a direct commission as a second lieutenantin Oct. 1979 and served as the civil affairs officer with the450th Civil Affairs Company in Riverdale, Md.

Porter received experience with medical service in the927th Medical Company, at Camp Blanding, Fla. and the202nd Medical Group, in Daytona Fla. He was the com-pany commander for the 131st Mobile Army SurgicalHospital in Tampa, Fla.

He became familiar with Fort Stewart in 1990 to 1996as Chief Social Work Officer for Winn Army CommunityHospital.

Porter left Stewart and joined the 1493rd MedicalDetachment before signing on to the 3220th.

With the support of his wife JoAnn and son Anthony,Porter is prepared to ease the transition with the changeof command and help the unit provide continued out-standing Soldier support.

Rock of the Marne Frontline 3AMay 17, 2007 The

‘3220th continues partnership withStewart, 3rd Inf Div’CHANGE From Page 1A

Photos by Pat Young

Left: Color guard from the 3220th Garrison SupportUnit, Medical Retention Battalion and MobilizationOperation Center represented the unit at the changeof command ceremony held at Fort Stewart’s MarneGardens May 10.

Below: Col. Todd Buchs, Fort Stewart and HunterArmy Airfield garrison commander, passes the3220th’s unit colors to Lt. Col. Leonard Porter,incoming MPU commander as outgoing comman-der Lt. Col Shawn Rasmusen and Soldiers from theunit look on.

Above: Lt. Col. Leonard Porter’s mother-in-law,Audrey Marshall and his son, Anthony Porter, look onas Porter assumes command of the 3220th MedicalRetention Battalion and Mobilization OperationsCenter at Fort Stewart.

Right: Soldiers from the 3220th stood tall at thechange of command ceremony held at Fort Stewart’sMarne Gardens May 10.

Many of you are familiar with theD.A.R.E. program that is taught in ourarea schools. One of the programrequirements is that each studentwrites an essay in order to graduate.Essays are judged by teachers, D.A.R.E.officers and Fort Stewart PoliceDepartment personnel. One overallwinner is selected from each school andthey are awarded a prize. Prizes thisyear include a $50.00 AAFES gift certifi-cate, gift bags from MWR and a stuffedDaren the D.A.R.E. Lion. Runners-upfrom each class will also receive a prize.The overall winners are SavannahWilliams from Fort Stewart ElementarySchool, Devin Pless from BrittinElementary School and KainoaNomura from Diamond ElementarySchool. The following is the winningessay of Savannah Williams.

Savannah WilliamsFort Stewart Elementary School

Hi I’m Savannah Williams and this ismy D.A.R.E. report. Most people thinkthat when a D.A.R.E. officer comes toschool he just hands out toys, candyand water bottles. Well, they are wrong.The D.A.R.E. officer teaches things weneed to be aware of in the future. Wetake tests on what we know and whatwe don’t know. If we get an answerwrong on a worksheet or test, heexplains it to us.

Next, we learned what D.A.R.E.means. The D is for define. Whichmeans describe the problem challengeor opportunity. A is for assess. Whichmeans what are your choices? The R isfor respond. Which means to make achoice; use the facts, and informationyou have gathered. The E is for evaluat-ing. Which means review your deci-sion did you make a good choice?

Most teens think that chewing

tobacco, smoking cigarettes, marijua-na, and alcohol are good because theysee their parents, friends or otheradults doing this.

However, chewing tobacco causesdehydration. It can be hard to playsports if you use tobacco because it’sslows you down, and makes you weak-er. You are going to feel like a big sleepyelephant. Chewing tobacco is a lead-ing cause of lung cancer in the mouth,throat, bladder and kidney. Smokelesstobacco can also cause mouth cancer,tooth loss, and other health problems.

The poisons in cigarettes can affectyour appearance. Smoking can dry

your skin out, cause wrinkles, short-ness of breath and dizziness. Smokingputs the health of your friends andfamily at risk. Approximately 3,000nonsmokers die of lung cancer eachyear from breathing other people’ssmoke. Smoking is the leading pre-ventable cause of death in this country.Smoking is the most common cause oflung cancer.

Marijuana affects your brain andbody. Examples are: short term mem-ory loss, loss of ability to concentrate,slows coordination and reflexes, abilityto judge distance, speed, and reactiontime-these are important in sports oreven riding a bike. Marijuana can be

addictive. Marijuana users also havean increased risk of cancer. Marijuanasmoke contains 50% to 70% more ofsome cancer causing chemicals thantobacco smoke.

Alcohol slows down the brain andbody. Examples of this are: loss ofcoordination, slowed reflexes, loss ofself control, poor judgment memorylapses, and slurred speech. Alcoholgoes directly into your bloodstreamand can increase your risk for a varietyof diseases. If you are with others whoare drinking, there is an increase risk ofinjury, car crashes, and violence. Teenbodies are still growing; therefore alco-hol affects them more severely thanadults especially in school and whileplaying sports. For example, teensmay not know that per severing, beer,wine, and liquor all contain about thesame amount of alcohol.

In conclusion, I think PresidentBush should take out every hurtfuldrug in the whole world. Right nowthis may not be as important toPresident Bush but these sickly peoplewith drugs in their bodies need be putinto a program to help them. Theyneed to get over the drugs that aregoing to kill them. It would be great ifPresident Bush put a few millions orbillions of dollars in this area. Morethan 400,000 Americas die from tobac-co –related causes each year. The hos-pital is trying so hard to do the bestthey can. President Bush needs toknow that most teens begin usingdrugs before the age of 18.

Even though our world is investedwith gangs and drugs we can still besafe if we stay away from those placesand drugs.

This is my pledge. I pledge that I willpass down my knowledge to youngerpeople and as I grow older not onedrug is going to touch my mouth.

High school shout-outs and thank-yousMarne Voices

Speak Out

“My Dad is about to get deployedand I want to say thank you foralways supporting me and encour-aging me in my last year of highschool.”

Tacora Jackson Parent soon to deploy

“My parents are on Fort Stewartand I want to thank you guys forhelping me through my highschool years. ”

Maria Lewis Family member

“I’m graduating this year and Ijust wanted to say thank you to myparents and the rest of my familyfor helping me get here.”

Christopher Williams Family member

“I want to send a special shout-out to my dad saying thanks foreverything, with being deployed,back and forth and helping me get

through school. “James Fleming Jr.

Parent currently deployed

“I would like to thank my parentsfor leading me throughout all myyears in school and helped me toget where I want to be in life.”

Jaleesa Barbary Family member

“Without my parents, I would nothave been able to becomeValedictorian.”

Danielle Ripley Parent soon to deploy

3rd Infantry Division4A Frontline May 17, 2007The

VVVVooooiiiicccceeee yyyyoooouuuurrrrooooppppiiiinnnniiiioooonnnn!!!!

Write a letter tothe editor!

Send to:Public Affairs Office

Attn: The Frontline, Editor894 William H. Wilson Ave.

Building 600CFort Stewart, Ga. 31314-4941

or fax it to 912-767-9366.

C

Frontline

ADVERTISING: (912) 368-0526THE Frontline OFFICE: 767-5669

The3rd Inf. Div. PAO — Lt. Col. Randy Martin3rd Inf. Div. NCOIC — Master Sgt. Marcia Triggs3rd Inf. Div. Ops — Staff Sgt. Craig ZentkovichDiv. staff writer — Sgt. Ben BrodyDiv. staff writer — Spc. Emily J. Wilsoncroft1st Bde. NCOIC — Staff Sgt. Raymond Piper 1st Bde. staff writer — Spc. Ricardo Branch2nd Bde. NCOIC — Sgt. Kevin Stabinsky4th Bde. NCOIC — Sgt. 1st Class Tami Reiman4th Bde. staff writer — Pvt. Jerome Arp4th Bde. staff writer — Pfc. Amanda McBrideAvn. Bde. NCOIC — Sgt. 1st Class Thomas MillsAvn. Bde. staff writer — Pfc. Monica Smith3rd Sust. Bde. NCOIC — Master Sgt. Rodney Williams3rd Sust. Bde. staff writer — Pfc. Gaelen Lowers

Garrison PAO — Richard OlsonCommand Information Officer – Jim Jeffcoat

Editorial/Design StaffManaging Editor – Pat YoungEditor – Sgt.Tanya PolkGarrison staff writer – Jennifer ScalesGraphic Design Specialist —Spc. Marques HuntGraphics Design Specialist — Spc. Christopher MolinaProduction Manager — Sherron WalkerAdvertising Mgr. — Jessa KajenckiHunter Army Airfield Public AffairsHunter Army Airfield PAO — Steven HartAssistant PAO — Nancy Gould

894 William H. Wilson Ave.Bldg. 600C, Ft. StewartHinesville, Ga. 31314

2007

Office, Fort Stewart, Ga. 31314-5000. All editorial content of theFrontline newspaper is prepared, edited, provided and approvedby the Public Affairs Office of Fort Stewart, Georgia and the 3rdInfantry Division and is printed by Morris Newspaper Corporationof Hinesville, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the

Department of the Army, under exclusive written contract withFort Stewart, Georgia. The civilian printer is responsible for com-mercial advertising. Subscription rates ar $12 - 3 months, $20 -six months and $36 for 12 months. Rates are Third Class mailinside the continental U.S.

3RD INFANTRY DIVISION COMMANDER MAJ. GEN. RICK LYNCH

This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication formembers of the U.S. Army. Contents of the Frontline are not nec-essarily the official views of, or are endorsed by, the U.S. govern-ment, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or U.S.Forces Command. It is published weekly by the Public Affairs

GARRISON COMMANDER COL. TODD A. BUCHS

Motorcycle/POV Safety Day at Stewart

Community membersare invited to visit FortStewart and Hunter ArmyAirfield’s POV/MotorcycleSafety Day, 10 a.m. to 2p.m., Friday in the MainPX parking lot at Stewart.

Attractions will be pro-vided by local lawenforcement and safetyrepresentatives from thesurrounding area.Features include:

• Motorcycle SafetyDisplay advanced ridingtips – Safety Office

• Seatbelt safety androllover display – Jesuppolice

• Beer goggles, golf cartdriving range – Jesup

police• Railroad crossing

safety -CSX SavannahRailroad

• Army substanceabuse display – FortStewart Office

• Fire department dis-play – Barbecue safety,vehicle displays

• Highway safety tips -Highway PatrolHinesville

• Boating and watersafety- Game WardensFort Stewart

• DUI and driving –Beer Googles- DES LawEnforcement

For more information,call 767-7878.

D.A.R.E. Winning Essays

Speed service provided at post hospital Winn Public Affairs

Winn Army Community Hospital islaunching new systems that are designed tospeed service when Soldiers, retirees andFamily members call to make an appoint-ment or retrieve test results. The new sys-tems are based on the latest in communica-tions and speech technology from Avaya Inc.and Interactive Northwest Inc.

"This is cutting edge stuff that I'm con-vinced will provide faster, easier navigationthrough our telephone systems,” said Col.Scott Goodrich, Winn Army CommunityHospital Commander.

The new technology addresses five criticalareas: connecting calls to the right depart-ment, reducing hold times, providing quick-er access to test results, handling calls moreefficiently, and using technology to improveservice.

The hospital now will use the latest “sayanything” speech recognition technology to

connect calls to the right department. Thatmeans callers won’t have to wait for an oper-ator.

The system itself asks simple questionsand routes calls based on the answers pro-vided, without the need for human interven-tion. If the system doesn’t understand aresponse, it simply asks questions in order toclarify.

This high-tech capability is based on anAvaya speech technology platform.

"This is a change in the way we do busi-ness,” said Alice Sheplar, chief informationofficer at Winn Army Community Hospital.“It's great for patients who may have hadtrouble using the telephone keypad. It’s awork in progress and will continue toimprove with time."

Patients calling to make an appointmentno longer have to hang online to keep theirplace in queue if the department they needto reach is busy. Instead, they can schedulea callback – either as soon as someone is

available or at a specific time of day. Thanksto a software application from INI, theywon’t lose their place in line. Instead, theircall is handled in the same order it wouldhave been if they had remained on the line.

"We are committed to improving ourpatients’ access to care, and the installationof the newly automated appointments sys-tem is one of the ways we will achieve thatgoal," said Harvey Harris, telecommunica-tions manager at Winn.

The hospital is expanding the use of anautomated system to deliver lab test results –allowing patients to access informationmore quickly and to do so on their ownschedule.

Patients can call in at a time that is mostconvenient for them, enter a personal lab IDnumber, and have the test results read tothem by the system. Software converts thewritten results to speech so that the systemcan “talk.”

Callers who contact the hospital now will

be prompted to enter their ID number,which in turn will trigger a computer systemto retrieve their records and display them onthe operator’s screen. That means calls canbe handled more promptly and patientswon’t have to repeat information that isalready in the system.

For quality control and staff training pur-poses, the hospital now is able to record callsand examine how well they are handled.That means improvements can be madeover time in the service the hospital delivers.

“I'm a big believer in using new technolo-gy to enhance health care,” Goodrich said.“If we can decrease the time and frustrationour patients experience waiting on ourphone lines, then this system will be worthevery penny we spent on it."

The appointment line phone numbershave remained the same: 435-6633 or 1-800-652-9221. The new system also works forTuttle Army Health Clinic and the Lloyd C.Hawks Troop Medical Clinic.

Rock of the Marne Frontline 5AMay 17, 2007 The

Special to the Frontline

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAM-MER, Iraq – Soldiers assigned to the 3rdHeavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rdInfantry Division thwarted a small armsand mortar attack on an Iraqi nationalpolice station near the town of SalmanPak May 9. The attack began when sever-al gunmen engaged the station withsmall arms and mortars. Two 1stBattalion, 227th Aviation Regiment AH-64 attack helicopters responded to thecall for help from Soldiers of 1stBattalion, 15th Infantry Regiment and E

Company, 1st Battalion, 125th InfantryRegiment. E Co. Soldiers, currently serv-ing as an Iraqi police training team. TheAH-64’s engaged and destroyed one vehi-cle with 30mm cannon fire after identify-ing the occupants as hostile. The heli-copters fired on three more gunmen asthey fled through a palm groove, killingtwo. The 1/15 Inf. is assigned to the 3rdHeavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rdInfantry Division, from Fort Benning,Ga., and the 1/227th Avn. is part of the 1stCavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas.E Co. , 1/125th Inf. is a Michigan NationalGuard unit.

Assault on Iraqi police defeated

“I talk to them with a webcam, plus I callthem and send them little letters.”

Sgt. 1st Class Christa BakerHHOC, STB

“I pray for my kids every single day, andI e-mail them.”

Capt. Maria CoatsHHC, 3rd CA Bn.

“I call my son and badger him about hisgrades ...and also just to say hello.”

Sgt. 1st Class Stacy NilesHHB, 214th Fires Bde.

“I send pictures constantly, and we writeletters to each other in a book and send thebook back and forth. I also gave him a setof my dog tags.”

Sgt. Shantarian Wimbley3rd Sig. Co., STB

3/1 Cav detains suspected insurgentSpecial to the Frontline

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq– Soldiers of the 3rd Squadron, 1st CavalryRegiment detained a suspected insurgent want-ed in connection with a recent rocket attack ona Coalition Forces’ base near Baghdad May 14.

Soldiers of A Troop, 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry

Regiment, moved to the suspect’s house afterreceiving small-arms fire and quickly securedthe area. The suspect had an AK-47, two maga-zines of ammunition and a cell phone at thetime of his apprehension.

The 3/1 Cavalry Regiment is assigned to the3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd InfantryDivision, out of Fort Benning, Ga.

View news from the frontline at the Dog Face Daily, online at

www.stewart.army.mil

Dog Face Voices: What do you do to keep yourself in your children’s thoughts?

StewartCompete for Yard of the Month

GMH and the ACS Mayors will be select-ing one yard in each neighborhood toreceive a prize and a sign.

Pen Pal Club meeting offeredMake a new friend for life by writing and

receiving letters 3:30-4:30 p.m., May 29 at

the Southern Oaks Community Center.

Family Fun FestivalEnjoy games and prizes, pony and train

rides, inflatable obstacle course, face paint-ing, a magician, food and much more from10 a.m.-2 p.m., June 9 in front of NewmanFitness Center.

HunterFamily Movie Night

Enjoy Family night with featured film,“Happy Feet”(rated PG) from 6-8 p.m.,Friday at Ken Heller Jr. Community Center.

6A Frontline May 17, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division

Work as a youth volunteerThe American Red Cross Summer Youth Program begins

June 11 and concludes July 20. Applications are availableat the American Red Cross Office, building 253, Suite 2074.Students must complete youth volunteer applicationpackets and attend orientation by May 31. Work permitsmust be obtained for all youth under the age of 18. Formore information call ARC office at 767-2197.

Healthier Feds initiative targets employeesHealthier Feds provides information and education to

federal employees and retirees about healthy living,greater individual responsibility for personal health, andbest-treatment strategies. For more information visitwww.healthierfeds.opm.gov.

Installation offers Vacation Bible SchoolFort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will sponsor

Vacation Bible School. The Stewart camp will be 9 a.m. tonoon, June 4 – 8 and will provide lunch for attendees. TheHunter event is 9 a.m. to noon, June 11 – 15 at the HunterChapel Annex. Both events are available to militarydependents, K-6th grade. For more information, contactMike Iliff at 767-9789.

Bicycle recycling drive offeredThe Directorate of Public Works will host a bicycle recy-

cling drive now through May 23. If you would like todonate a bike that has suffered from neglect, gently used,or no longer desired – now is the time to make a differenceand keep bikes out of the landfills.

The collection times are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday at the Fort Stewart recycling center, bldg. 957 onMcFarland Avenue, and the Hunter recycling center, bldg.726 on Westley Ave. For more information call 767-8880.

Prepare for bad weatherLearn about hurricane and severe weather planning.

Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will hold threesevere weather briefs. Stewart will hold two at MoonTheater from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on May 24. Hunter will haveone May 29 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Hunter Club.

Federal Employee Health Benefits offeredFort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield will host a FEHB

Joint Service Day 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. May 23 at Building 253room 2013A in the Civilian Personnel Advisory Councilconference room.

Outdoor pools open May 26The pools open May 26 - Sept. 3. Daily hours are 11:30

a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Corkan Pool, Bryan Village and Hunter

Outdoor pools.

Stewart“May Day” Aerobic-Thon offered

Newman Fitness Center will host an Aerobic-Thon 9a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday. The event will feature four hoursof intense aerobic training including steps, jazz, pilates,hip-hop, salsa and more. Blood pressure screening, nutri-tional consultations, body fat analysis, and flexibility test-ing will be available. Free-shirts go to the first 200 partici-pants. For more information, call 767-3033.

Commander holds Golf Scramble Taylor’s Creek Golf Course will host the Garrison

Commander’s Golf Scramble, tomorrow. The tournament begins at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start.

The cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members.The first 25 teams will be accepted. For more information,call 767-2370.

Corkan Family Recreation ‘Play Day’ slatedOnce a month Corkan Family Recreation opens one of

it’s facilities early for ‘Play Day.’ This month it is 10 a.m. to1 p.m., May 21. Enjoy Cypress Mini Golf and “The Springs”with your toddler. For more information, call 767-4273.

Lean to anticipate unhealthy behaviorLearn how to anticipate all phases of deployment, aban-

don unhealthy behaviors, practical skills for dealing withfinancial issues, build family traditions, unity, and a “nur-turing family culture” presented by Franklin Covey, 8 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. May 22 at the Family Readiness Center onStewart.

The class is limited to 25 participants. Free child care isavailable through Child and Youth Services hourly carewith advance registration. For more information, call 767-1257.

‘Changing your flat’ class offered at LibbyFort Stewart Libby Auto Crafts Center will hold a class at

6 p.m., May 25 on learning basic car care principles andhow to change a flat tire in an emergency situation. Formore information, call 767-3521.

Youth summer basketball league offeredChild Youth Services is hosting a free summer basketball

league for middle school and high school youth, May 29 -July 31. Registration is ongoing through May 25. For moreinformation, call 767-4493.

Go canoeing at Holbrook pondLearn the basics of canoeing 10a.m., May 26. This class

will teach the basics of boater safety, basic strokes andhandling. For more information, call 435-8205.

Locating lost and found itemsThe Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield has a lost and

found program. If you want to report an item lost or checkon the status of one, check with the military police. Visitbuilding 280, 354 East Bultman Avenue on Fort Stewartand check with William Hooks, 767-9596. The Hunterpoint of contact is James Westfall, at Building 1240, 197South Lightning Road, 315-5374.

Boss Talent Show II slatedCome show off your singing, dancing, poetic, and

instrumental skills June 15 at Rocky’s. Rehearsals are at 4 p.m., May 24 and June 7. There will becash prizes for winners, as well as door prizes for atten-dees. Winners may have a chance to compete at the ArmyShow. For more information, call Staff Sgt. Erica Gordon at572-4486.

Register to ‘Walk to Iraq and Back’The Walk to Iraq and Back continues as an on-going pro-

gram where teams will submit walked miles monthlytowards the goal of 13,000 miles. Registration is alsoongoing and forms are now available at the FamilyReadiness Center. For more information, contact AmyLambert at 320-5400.

Bicycle Rodeo slatedThe Directorate of Emergency Services and community

leaders will host a safety bicycle rodeo 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,Saturday at Brittin Elementary. The event will have safetyworkshops and training, bicycle registration, and muchmore.

A raffle ticket will be given for each bicycle registered onpost. Two bicycles will be given away at the end of the day.A parent or guardian must be present during the registra-tion process.

HunterHunter free racquetball clinic postponed

The free racquetball clinic and tournament for ages 18and up at the Hunter Fitness Center is postponed until 10a.m., June 16. Brenda Kyzer, a professional racquetballplayer, will be the hostess of the clinic. For more informa-tion, call 315-2019.

Walk to Iraq and Back kicks off at HunterHunter spouses and friends will kick off the “Walk to Iraq

and Back” campaign 8:30 a.m. Saturday, at ACS. Call 655-7004, for more information.

Fort Stewart /Hunter Army Airfield Briefs

Come to Stewart’s USBC annual meetingat Club Stewart’s Patriot’s room Sunday

The United States Bowling Congress is sponsoring an open meeting atClub Stewart Patriot’s Room 1 p.m., Sunday.

Come learn about the association and provide insight for USBC’s future.Prizes from the Open and Women’s Tournament will be distributed.Refreshments will be served.

Pvt. Kenneth J. Thomas,

26th BSB was convicted at a

special court-martial of

AWOL and wrongful us of

marijuana. He was sen-

tenced to four months con-

finement and to be dis-

charged from the service

with a bad-conduct dis-

charge.

Pvt. Arthur E. Hercules,26th BSB was convicted at aspecial

court-martial of AWOL,wrongful use of marijuanaand methamphetamineand wrongful possession ofmarijuana. He was sen-tenced to five months con-finement and to be dis-charged from the servicewith a bad-conduct dis-charge.

Spc. Erik L. Adams, 703rdBSB was convicted at a spe-cial court-martial of drivingunder the influence, resist-ing apprehension, assault-ing a police officer andcommunicating a threat.He was sentenced to bereduced to E-1, to be con-fined for 46 days; to per-form hard labor withoutconfinement for threemonths and restriction for

two months.

Command Sgt. Maj.Joseph K. Rasmussen, 3-7CAV was convicted at a spe-cial court-martial of adul-tery and bigamy. He wassentenced to be reduced toE-7 and to forfeit $2,000pay per month for fivemonths.

Spc. Darrick D. Butler,260th QM Bn was convictedat a special court-martial ofconspiracy, failure to followan order and wrongful useof marijuana and cocaine.He was sentenced to reduc-tion to E-1, six months con-finement and to be dis-charged with a bad conductdischarge.

Spc. Margaret Williams,87th CSB was convicted at aspecial court-martial ofdesertion terminated byapprehension. She wassentenced to

be reduced to E-1, to for-feit $864 pay per month for12 months, 12 months con-finement and to be dis-charged with a bad conductdischarge.

Private from 1/41 FAconvicted at a summarycourt-martial of AWOL. Hewas sentenced to 30 daysconfinement and $971 for-

feitures for one month.Specialist from 3/69

Armor was convicted at asummary court-martial ofwrongful use and distribu-tion of Percocet, AWOL andfailing to register a firearm.

He was sentenced toreduction to E-2, 20 daysconfinement and $971 for-feitures for one month.

Male was fined $200 andplaced on 12 months pro-bation for the crime ofcriminal trespassing andordered to pay specialassessments totaling $10.

Male was fined a total of$400 and placed on 12months probation for thecrimes of theft of publicproperty and criminal tres-pass and ordered to payspecial assessments total-ing $35.

Male was fined a total of$450 and placed on twelvemonths probation for thecrimes of driving undersuspended registration andno insurance and orderedto pay special assessmentstotaling $50.

Male was fined $500 forthe crime of driving under asuspended license andordered to pay specialassessments totaling $25.

Rock of the Marne Frontline 7AMay 17, 2007 The

Legal NoticesAnyone having claims against, or who

is indebted to the estate of Pvt. DominicJ. Perry, CAB Home Detachment, 3rd Inf.Div., Hunter Army Airfield, Ga, 31409contact Capt. Craig Blow, 4/3 Aviation,Hunter Army Airfield, GA 31409, phone:334-477-6098.

Anyone having claims against, or whois indebted to the estate of Spc. Judon K.Kenya, CAB Home Detachment, 3rd Inf.Div., Hunter Army Airfield, GA 31409,contact Capt. Craig Blow, 4/3 Aviation,Hunter Army Aifield, GA 31409, phone:334-477-6098.

Anyone having claims against, or whois indebted to the estate of Spc. Eddie

Daniel Tamez, D Co. 3rd BSB, FortStewart, GA 31314, contact 2nd Lt.Charlene Smalls at 1st BCT, 3rd BSB, FortStewart, GA 31314, phone: 767-1921.

Anyone having claims against or whois indebted to the estate of Pfc. DavidAustin Kirkpatrick, D Troop, 5/7 Cav.,Fort Stewart, GA 31314, contact 1st Lt.Levi Lenon, Rear Detachment D, 5/7Cav., Fort Stewart, GA 31314.

Anyone having claims against or whois indebted to the estate of Pfc. NicholasEmerson Riehl, A Troop, 5/7 Cav., FortStewart, GA 31314, contact 1st Lt. LeviLenon, Rear Detachment D, 5/7 Cav.,Fort Stewart, GA 31314.

Pat YoungFrontline Staff

During times of deploy-ment and times of greatconflict, Soldiers arise toanswer their nations call,and as they move forward,chaplains go with them.

They have addressedtheir solemn role in the mil-itary since 1775 to nurturethe living, administer to thewounded and sick, andhonor the dead.

“The chaplaincy has asplit mission,” said Col.Ronald Hill, installationChaplain. “A number of thechaplains will deploy withtheir units, while othersremain behind to help pro-vide for the Soldiers andFamily members thatremain.”

Whether in the hot sandsof Iraq, or the humid wet-lands of southeast Georgia,chaplains must continue tohelp Soldiers no matter

their location or religiouspreference.

The role of the chaplain isto provide for the free exer-cise of all faith groups, andthey do that with toleranceand understanding.

“One of the neat thingsabout being an Army chap-lain is you are able to rubshoulders, and associatewith, ministers of all faithgroups and backgrounds,”said Hill. “What you quick-ly learn, once you’ve beenin a while, is that your par-ticular faith group doesn’thave a monopoly on thelove of God. There are otherfaith groups out there thatlove God as much as you do.You quickly learn that ifyou’re going to be success-ful in the military chaplain-cy you are going to have tolower your blinders, youhave to respect and providefor all faith groups, sincere-ly.”

Whether they are one of

the many chaplains deploy-ing or one of the sevenchaplains remaining, set-ting faith groups aside, thechaplains have a greatmany missions to attend toincluding, marriages, coun-seling, baptism, funerals,education and church ser-vices.

But various faith groupshave specific needs, so thechaplaincy has reached outand linked arms with com-munity ministries in a“ministry alliance” to helpprovide for their communi-ties needs. Together, thechaplaincy offers a greatvariety of programs thathelp provide worship ser-vice, minister to Familymembers, pastoral counsel-ing, youth programs, andmore.

Taking center stage toprovide those services, anew 36,000 square footchapel will help facilitatethose programs.

Chaplains support Soldiers, families

See CHAPLAINS Page 9A

Rock of the Marne Frontline 9AMay 17, 2007 The

Georgia HOPE Grant offeredThe HOPE Grant is money given by the state of Georgia

to students with financial need to attend vocational/tradeschools. The Grant covers certificate and diploma pro-grams. Any Soldier or Family member of a Soldier who isstationed in Georgia may be eligible. If you are interested inattending a Georgia vocational or trade school, inquire withyour school's financial advisor or visit the Army EducationCenter to speak with a counselor.

MGIB benefits can go to spouses 18 monthsThe Secretary of the Army has approved the transfer of

up to 18 months of MGIB benefits to spouses as a pilot pro-gram. This program became effective July 21, 2006. Theprogram is bound by law to the retention of critical skills.Eligible Soldiers must have enrolled in MGIB on DD Form2366 upon entry to active duty. If you cannot locate yourDepartment of Defense Form 2366, check your officialMilitary Personnel File or go online to Army KnowledgeOnline for details. Your education counselor can assist youwith information about your MGIB benefits. Please contactyour unit retention career counselor for details.

Free SAT and ACT test prep software offeredThe Victory Sports Group of NFL football players is spon-

soring test prep software for military Families. There will bea small shipping charge for delivery. The sponsorship codeis 2ad9c5ccfd for http:sat.eknowledge.com/purchase_coupon.asp.

Get $4500 in tuition assistanceAll active duty members have $4500 per fiscal year for

education. This entitlement is separate from theMontgomery GI Bill benefits available from the Veteran’sAdministration. Details are available at 1:30 p.m. Monday –Friday during a one hour brief at the education center,room 223. The www.goarmyed.com Web site provides 24hours, 7 days a week virtual access for Soldiers. Our educa-tion counselors are available to assist in educational goalsetting and advising.

College testing offeredColumbia College is now providing our college testing

services. More than 70 CLEPs and DSSTs are computerbased for immediate results. CLEP/DSST testing is free toSoldiers and costs vary from $80 to $100 per test for civil-ians. Columbia will also be the test proctor for all collegedistance learning tests. There is a $20 fee for registration.Please call 767-7558 or 877-3406 for more information.

Upcoming college term datesCentral Texas College, June 4-July 28, 767-2070 at

Stewart, 315-4090 at Hunter. Columbia College, June 4-July 25, 767-5336 at Stewart,

352-8635 at Hunter. Embry Riddle, May 29 – July 30, 767-3930 at Stewart, 352-

5252 at Hunter. Savannah Tech, July 9-Sept. 19, 408-2430 at Stewart.Webster University, May 28-July 30, 767-5357 at Stewart,

354-0033 at Hunter.

Savannah Technical College offers childcareChildcare is available at the Airport Road Hinesville cam-

pus. Please contact Natasha Brown at 408-3024 ext 6026 formore details.

Free college tutoring offeredSavannah Technical College is offering tutoring in math,

English, computers, reading, etc. The service is available atthe Hinesville Liberty Campus. Math and tutoring in theother subjects is offered Monday-Friday and is availablesome evenings.

Service at the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith EducationCenter that includes math tutoring is offered at 3:10-5:30p.m., Monday and Wednesday of each week. You don’t haveto be enrolled in Savannah Tech to participate. Call 408-3024 for more information.

GED prep and enrichment courses availableGED preparation courses, offered in partnership with the

Liberty County Adult Education Program are held at theArmy Education Center on Fort Stewart. These courses willprepare you to take the GED or refresh your skills in basiceducation subjects. Courses are free of charge on a spaceavailable basis. Fort Stewart Education Center hours are:Monday – Thursday 8 a..m.-noon and 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.,Tuesday and Wednesday evenings 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. in rooms225 - 228. Please call 368-7322 or 368-7329 for more infor-mation.

GED registration availableGED registration is 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., May 21-22. For more

information call 368-7322 or 767-7329.

Check out Green-to-Gold opportunitiesA Green to Gold representative is available at the Hunter

Education Center at 2 p.m., May 24. For more information,call 315-6130.

Vie for Troops/Spouse to Teachers programsBill Kirkland, program manager for the Georgia Troops to

Teachers Program and Georgia Spouse to Teachers Programwill be available to answer questions 11 a.m., May 23. TheGeorgia Troops to Teachers Program provides eligible ser-vice members up to $10,000 for becoming public schoolteachers. Under the Spouse to Teachers Programs, eligiblemilitary spouses may be reimbursed for the cost of staterequired certification tests up to a total of $600. Please call1-800-745-0709 or 767-8331 for more information.

Computerized certification exams available Hundreds of different certification exams, including

many information technology, emergency medical techni-

cian, paramedic, IBM exams, etc. are now being adminis-tered on computer in room 165, at the education center.Because the Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith Education Centerhas become an official Pearson Virtual User Environmentcenter, many Soldiers and Family members have access toa broader variety of tests. For more information, call thetest administrator, at 767-9569, or, visit www.pearsonVUE.com.

Central Texas College offers scholarshipsThe Central Texas College Foundation office has more

than 100 scholarships available to students. These scholar-ships are not just for students at the Central Campus butmany of these scholarships are available for studentsattending one of Central Texas College's World WideCampus'. Filling out a single application will give studentsthe opportunity to be considered for all of their availablescholarships. The application process is simple, visit www.ctcd.scholarships.nelnet.net, and set up an account.

Hunter education center open daily Counseling support is available 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., five

days a week in room 13 at the Hunter Army AirfieldEducation Center. An Army Education Counselor is avail-able 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays.

The Learning Center hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.,Monday – Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.Take advantage of a variety of study resources and Internetcapability. For more information call 315-6130.

Testing Hours: The testing office, room 21, is open twodays a week. The open testing hours are 9 a.m. to noon and1-5 p.m. on Tuesday. Controlled testing (CLEP/DSST) isgiven on 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday. You must call315-3790 or fax 315-6790 for an appointment, or emailchena.wilson@us.army.mil.

Colleges: The next college term for Webster University,Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Columbia College,and Central Texas College begins at the end of May.

It is time to get all financial applications completed.Remember that these schools are located at the HunterArmy Airfield Education Center, Bldg. 1290.

Book club volunteers needed at HunterVolunteers are needed to start a book club. You set the

rules, you decide what you want to read. Anyone interestedin starting the book club or participating in the club, pleasecontact the Hunter Army Airfield Branch Library at 315-2403

Summer reading kicks off at HunterStory Time is every Wednesday from 10-10:30 a.m. for

children ages two through five. Join the Summer ReadingProgram kickoff party with lunch crafts and fun from 1 p.m.- 2:30 p.m., May 30 at the Hunter Army Airfield BranchLibrary. The Hunter Branch Library is located in theEducation Center, Room 24. For more information callVeronica Restrepo at 315-2403.

Special to the Frontline

Currently, U.S. Army Garrison FortStewart and Hunter Army Airfield installa-tion access policy requires passengervehicles not bearing valid DoD decals toobtain a temporary vehicle pass prior tobeing granted installation access.Requirements to obtain a temporary passare a valid vehicle registration, insurance,photo identification, and declaration ofyour on-post destination. Temporarypasses are available at limited locations atour installations and depending on thetime of day, can take up to 45 minutes toobtain.

These procedures have been in placefor about five years and are no longerrequired by the Department of Defense orthe U.S. Army.

After the comprehensive and deliberateconsideration of many factors, the instal-lation commander has approved the fol-lowing modification to installation accessprocedures for USAG Fort Stewart andHunter.

The modification is effective 12:01 a.m.,May 28 and applies only to passengervehicles not bearing valid DoD decals:

1. Vehicles may request installationaccess at any gate at any time (with theexception of Rio Gate at Hunter ArmyAirfield).

2. Vehicle operator and all occupants 16years of age and older must present a validmatching form of photo identification(drivers license, DoD CAC, State ID card,etc).

3. Access Control personnel will verifythat no personnel desiring access to USAGFort Stewart or Hunter Army Airfield havebeen temporarily or permanently barred.Personnel who have been barred from ourinstallations will not be granted access.

Note: There will be no change to instal-lation access procedures for passengervehicles bearing valid DoD decals or for allcommercial vehicles.

The safety and security of our Soldiers,Families, and civilians remains a top pri-ority of the U.S. Army and USAG FortStewart and Hunter Army Airfield, espe-cially during this deployment.

The Directorate of Emergency servicescontinues to provide around-the-clocklaw enforcement, physical security, andinstallation access control services at bothinstallations.

The outstanding relationships we sharewith local, State, and Federal law enforce-ment agencies in Savannah, Hinesville,and our other partner-communities was asignificant factor in the installation com-mander’s decision to implement thisoperational change.

If you have any questions about thenew access control procedures, please call767-8435 during normal business hours.

Please continue to report suspicious orillegal activities to the appropriate author-ities.

For emergencies, 24 hours a day, 7 daysa week, dial 911, for non-emergency num-bers call the Fort Stewart police desk at767-4895, Hunter police desk at 315-6133or 315-6134.

New installation accessrequirements begin May 28

Fort Stewart – Moon TheaterMay 24, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Hunter Army Airfield – Hunter ClubMay 29, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

The new chapel wasdesigned to help relieveovercrowding at the instal-lations chapels and providemodern facilities for itscommunity members. Ithas room for about 600people in the main sanctu-ary, with the ability toexpand to 1000 by openingits auxiliary area.

It features 17 new classrooms and provides a loca-tion for groups like theProtestant Women of theChapel and CatholicWomen of the Chapel tomeet.

“We will be able to movea number of our programsfrom the schools to our newfacility,” Hill said. “In addi-tion we’ll be able to expandour services.”

Hill said the new facilitywill have two multipurposerooms and two specialtyrooms as well as a bap-tismal capable of offeringfull immersion if sodesired.

“It will be a wonderfulfeature that’s not available

in many places,” Hill said. Because the chapels are

neutral while services aren’tbeing held in the facilitythey have a new featurethat will help prepare thechapel for specific services.With the click of a button, acenter mounted shelf canrotate to display a catholiccrucifix, the protestantcross or a blank display.

“We have a full gambitof religious programs toinclude Catholic,Protestant, Jewish services,Muslim, and more,” saidHill. “We aren’t all inclusive.If we don’t have a religiousprogram on-post, weencourage them to seek inour surrounding communi-ties.”

Some of their programsinclude programs forSoldiers, spouses, couples,children, and outreach pro-grams.

“We have a children min-istry program at School AgeServices that starts at 11a.m. Sunday mornings,”said Hill. He said the ‘Kid’s

Church’ is a collectiveChristian program whereall faith groups are invited.

He said the youth min-istries have puppets, anduse a biblically basedtheme, where gospellessons are taught in arelaxed and fun-learningatmosphere. He said theoutreach programs aredesigned to help Familiesin need.

“We have somethingcalled operation helpinghand,” Hill said. “We areable to help (Families inneed) by providing a dona-tion so they can go to thecommissary and buy milkand bread or whatever theyneed.”

“We do the same thingduring Christmas time withfood vouchers,” Hill contin-ued. “We gave away 14,000last year for commissaryvouchers.”

Hill encourages commu-nity members to learnabout the programs avail-able. For more informa-tion, call 767-8801.

CHAPLAINS From 7A

10A Frontline May 17, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division

He said the establishment of theentry control point, and secureperimeter around the city will dis-rupt terrorists from attempting toreenter Ramadi.

“This will allow the IraqiSecurity Forces to prevent vehicle-Borne improvised explosivedevices, and movement of illegalweapons and materials back intothe city,” Burgin said.

Pfc. Brandon Hay, also from Co.C, said that along with the ECP, thecity will be fortified by concertinawire and berms, which could stopthe insurgents from conductingattacks inside the city.

“It’s going to close the area offbecause the berm and triple-strand concertina wire is a deter-rent for any form of terrorist acts,”Hay said. “If we can block off theflow of munitions, the insurgentswill begin to run out.”

During the construction, theengineers were joined by the Iraqipolice, who helped the Soldierswith fortifying the perimeter.

“This is a big open area that ter-rorists can enter the city,” said Sgt.Salah Erzige Bada, an Iraqi police-man from the Aheps Iraqi police

station. “We protect the people inthis area, so we’re here to helpout.”

Burgin and the Soldiers valuedthe added help, which they see as areflection of the commitment Iraqipolice have to their people.

“It’s good to see such a joint-effort,” he said. “The Iraqis areworking hand-in-hand with us toimprove their communities.”

Although the workload isimmense, Burgin said havingIraqis along makes the task go at afaster pace.

“We’re doing good, real good,”he said. “Everyone is working welltogether. Aside from the languagebarriers, the ISF are eager to dotheir part, and we’re doing every-thing we can to help better thelives of the Iraqis here.”

“This is really a two-fold mis-sion,” Burgin added. “One, it’skeeping the terrorists out of thecity and two, it allows the ISF tohave a direct hand in improvingthe security of Ramadi.”

The security improvements arejust one of the ways the engineerscontribute to the success of opera-tions in Ramadi.

Spc. Ricardo Branch

Pfc. Brandon Hay, C Co., 9th Eng. guides a fork-lift toward some concertina wire during the building ofa checkpoint May 10 on the western side of Ramadi.

PARAMETER F r o m

Spc. Ben Hutto3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER –Young infantrymen face the fear of step-ping on the streets of Baghdad. But, theyare not alone as combat veteran noncom-missioned officers take them under theirwings.

Soldiers from 3rd platoon, A Company,1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regimentpatrolled the streets of Salman Pak in con-junction with the military police and theIraqi national police.

“This is just another chance for the peo-ple to see our faces and know that we arehere to help out,” explained Pfc. PaulJernigan, an infantryman with 3rd platoon.

Led by Sgt. 1st Class Peter Black, theunit’s platoon sergeant, the group spenttwo hours walking up and down the streets,venturing into the town square and greet-ing anyone who would approach them.

Their mission, while relatively simple toexplain, is not simple to execute.

“We just got here yesterday, but we’regoing to spend six days here working withthe military police and the Iraqi police,”said Sgt. Robert Butler.

As the Soldiers from 3rd Platoon kepttheir intervals, Black explained how thistown is actually much better than the townin the platoon’s previous area of operationduring Operation Iraqi Freedom III.

“The situation here is a lot better thanwhere we were last time, based on the rep-utation of the Iraqi national police working

here,” explained Black. “I think it helps thatthey work here, but don’t live here. We areseeing their operations getting goodresults. They are taking the lead in a lotmore things. Really, all we do is shadowthem, in case they need back up. I thinkthey and most of the population here knowthat we are just here to help.”

Pvt. Clint Biddle, a medic who was alsowith Black during OIF III in 3rd Platoon,agrees that the situation is different.

“The town is a lot bigger and we areworking a lot closer with the Iraqi forcesthis time,” explained Biddle.

“I think they are doing a lot better jobpolicing their towns.”

The combat experience in Black’s pla-toon will be a huge asset in situations likethis foot patrol, according to many veteranplatoon members.

“I’ve got 12 vets that have been with thisplatoon since OIF III,” said Black. “I tookover during the middle of the last rotation,but didn’t try to come in and change any-thing. They had their routine down and Ididn’t want to mess with that. I have faith inmy Soldiers. I let my guys be thinkers onthe ground. I don’t dictate how things willbe. I have a lot of faith in their abilities andjudgment.”

The confidence Black places in his veter-ans trickles down to the new Soldiers in thesquad.

For most, this is their first deploymentand they are taking all the advice they canfrom the experienced non-commissionedofficers in the company.

“I use every little bit of advice they(NCOs) give us,” said Pvt. Brandon Bailey.

“They all do what they can to help usbecause they want us to (return home)alive.”

Black agrees.“We have a lot of combat experience

spread out throughout 1/15,” explainedBlack. “I let the NCOs teach their men whatthey need to know and I tell my Soldiers totrust their leaders.”

Not that it is easy to blend into a platoonas tight knit as 3rd Platoon. It is a closegroup where everyone seems to have anickname.

Many of them have been through hardtimes together and that has built bondsthat run deeper than casual working rela-tionships.

“Last time I was here, me and my guyswent through some really bad stuff,”explained Butler. “We had gotten reallytight. They were probably the bravest guysI’d ever met. You go into situations togetherwhere you think you’re going to die andnobody runs. They stand right by your sidefighting and they’re just as scared as youare. After that, that’s your brother.”

Entering such a fraternity can be daunt-ing for Soldiers still in their first year, butthe newcomers to 3rd Platoon have foundways to impress the veteran members ofthe platoon with their zeal and willingnessto do the hard work it takes to become agood infantryman and teammate.

“At first it is hard fitting in, but once youget here and get settled it’s not too bad,”

explained Bailey.“Our new guys are eager,” said Biddle

with a smile. “They want to go out onpatrol.”

Butler tries to keep his new Soldiers asready as possible. In his mind, their eager-ness is an asset, but he has tried to temperit with his experience.

“When the new guys showed up I toldthem, ‘I’m not here to be your friend. I’myour sergeant and my job is to get you outof this alive,’” he said with a straight face.“If they don’t like me, I don’t care as long asthey are back home with their Familieswhen this is over.” A smile broke over hisface before he continued. “I’ve tried not toget too close to them, but it’s hard.”

The platoon marched for another hourbefore it doubled back through SalmanPak’s town square.

The town’s people filled the downtownarea getting haircuts, buying food, drinkingchai and going about their daily lives.

As the Soldiers walked by, many adultsgreeted them, many children came out toshake their hands or give the squad athumbs up, but everyone was watching.

As the tired squad trudged up the stairsto their room, several members fromanother squad in the platoon were gearingup to provide cover for two tanks outsidethe compound in Salman Pak.

Jokes were exchanged as the first squadquickly caught the other one up on whathappened on the previous patrol. For amoment, it didn’t even seem like they werein the middle of a war.

‘Hard Rock’ platoon keeps streets safe

Rock of the Marne Frontline 11AMay 17, 2007 The

Family readiness support assistant(s) wanted.Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGSTEWOpening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation),GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 Annual Place of Work: U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314Position Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-

porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate onyour resume your availability for any of these appointments.

Number of Vacancy: 25

Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGHUNTOpening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008

First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation), GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 AnnualPlace of Work: U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314Duty Location: Hunter Army Airfield, GA

Position Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate onyour resume your availability for any of these appointments.

Number of Vacancy: 6

Vacancy Announcement Number: SCDW07FRGBENNOpening Date: May 7Closing Date: May 6, 2008First Cut off Date: May 11Position: Family Readiness Support Assistant (Office

Automation), GS-0303-5Salary: $28,862 - $37,519 AnnualPlace of Work: U.S. Army Mission Support Element, Fort

Stewart, GA 31314 Duty Location: Fort Benning, GAPosition Status: This announcement may be used to fill tem-

porary full-time, part-time or intermittent positions. Indicate onyour resume your availability for any of these appointments. Number of Vacancy: 7

CPAC recruits youthfor summer hire

Note: The Civilian Personnel AdvisoryCenter received a significantly larger num-ber of applications for the Summer Hiresthat had an April 30 cut-off. The closingdate for all four-vacancy announcementswas May 11. There are only 208 SummerHire positions.

Subsequently, the CPAC conducted a lot-tery to determine applicants selected foremployment under the Summer Hire pro-gram. A separate lottery was established foreach vacancy announcement. The lotterytook place the week of May 7. Selectees willbe notified of their selection for employ-ment.

For more information, call Angela Francisat 767-5051.

Time6:30 a.m. National Anthem/ DogFace Soldier 6:35 a.m. Daily Devotional 6:40 a.m. Audience6:55 a.m. Daily Devotional 7 a.m. Marne Report 8 a.m. Marne Chat w/Dina McKain 8:30 a.m. AUDIENCE9 a.m. Pentagon Channel Iraq briefings/Audience10 a.m. Audience10:30 a.m. Education Matters w/Kaytrina Sharp11 a.m. 3rd ID in Iraq- DVIDS/Audience11:55 a.m. Daily Devotional Noon Marne Chat w/Dina McKain12:30 a.m. Marne Report 1 p.m. CG Stand Up 1:30 a.m. CGs NewComers Brief2 p.m. Pentagon Channel Iraq briefings3 p.m. SMS video4 p.m. CG Stand Up or Audience 5 p.m. Marne Chat w/Dina McKain 5:30 p.m. CG Stand Up or Audience5:55 p.m. Daily Devotional 6 p.m. Marne Report 6:30 p.m. Education Matters w/Kaytrina Sharp 7 p.m. Marne Report 7:30 p.m. CG Stand Up or Audience8 p.m. Safety Concerns W/Kaytrina 8:30 p.m. CG Stand Up or Audience 9 p.m. Marne Report 9:30 p.m. Audience10 p.m. Audience10:30 p.m. Marne Report 11 p.m. Marne Report 11:30 p.m. Education Matters w/Kaytrina Sharp

Marne TelevisionSchedule

Channel 7 at Hunter Army AirfieldChannel 16 at Fort Stewart

Courtesy Photo

Capt. David Dobson, officer in charge at the BehavioralMedicine Clinic at Tuttle Army Health Clinic; Sgt.TimothyNoel, B Company, 224 Military Intelligence Battalion andCol. Scott Goodrich, commander at Winn ArmyCommunity Hospital mark the opening of the new addi-tion to the Behavioral Medicine Clinic at Tuttle, May 10.

Officers’ Spouses Club 2006-2007 Donations

YMCA of Coastal Georiga $ 1,000Army Distaff Foundation $ 250D.A.R.E $ 200National Military Family Assocation $ 200Liberty Regional Medical Center $ 300Firsts Steps $ 300Chatham-Savannah Citizen $ 100Advocacy Inc

First Presbyterian $ 100OSC Scholarship $ 3,000WINN ICU $ 100Fort Stewart Boy Scout Troop 566 $ 100Fort Stewart Girl Scouts $ 100Fort Stewart Home School Group $ 100American Cancer Society $ 200Savannah State Unversity $ 100First United Methodist Preschool $ 200Richmond Hill High Schhool Mat $ 100Cats Booster ClubSavannah Christian Church $ 50(Naomi Havens)Youth Challenge $ 200HMAC $ 500Manna House $ 200First Baptist $ 100Gabriel House $ 200

TOTAL = $ 7,700

12A Frontline May 17, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division

Pvt. Jerome F. Arp4th BCT Public Affairs

The 4th Brigade Combat Teamarrived at Command OperatingBase King within the NationalTraining Center at Fort Irwin, Calif.,April 21.

Immediately after arrival,Headquarters, HeadquartersCompany personnel started build-ing a Tactical Operations Center,which is where the brigade com-mander and headquarters staffmonitor and control all operationswithin their area.

After most of the TOC was con-structed, the signal and communi-cations section (S-6) went to worksetting up and wiring equipment.

"S-6 is responsible for all com-munications within the brigade,"explained Sgt. Eri'ka Jones, aninformation system analyst.

"There are three sections:automations, commo and networkoperations."

Automations set up the LocalArea Network, which providesInternet to the Soldiers workingwithin the TOC.

Automations also maintainservers like the Command Post ofthe Future, which is the "heart" ofthe TOC.

The 4th BCT commander, Col.Thomas James, received briefs fromcommanders and staff representa-tives with the CPOF server.

The communications cell of S-6 is

responsible for radio communica-tions.

One of the commo section’responsibilities is to set up andmaintain a Single Channel Groundto Air Radio System, which receiveand transmits communicationbetween marine, ground and airunits.

Network operations monitor theInternet and secure Internet of thebrigade's network.

One of network operations’responsibilities is to provide the lat-est patches, which are updates for acomputer program, and ensure thenetwork is running smoothly.

"S-6 works together as a whole inorder to accomplish our mission,"said Jones.

Communications vital to 4 BCT

Staff Sgt. Samantha M. Stryker5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

BAGHDAD – The title conjures images of afearless yet savvy warrior charging into afight with nothing but victory on his mind -Battle Noncommissioned officer.

But the days when commanders stood onthe high ground watching unit guide-onsmaneuver through combat are gone. Nowleaders monitor their battle space in opera-tions centers that resemble NASA groundcontrol. He can see his entire battle spaceon large screens linked by integrated com-puter systems and communicate with sub-ordinate units by secured telephone, radiosor shouting across the room.

No matter how a commander monitorshis area of responsibility, one thing willnever change. He is supported by noncom-missioned officers.

Sgt. 1st Class David Braner, an armorcrewman, is one of four battle NCOs for the3rd Inf. Div., G3 Operations in the divisionoperations center. He works the night shift.

“It is a mentaly exhausting job with long

hours,” said Braner as he simultaneouslyupdated the information flowing into theDOC on the Command Post of the Futurecomputer system, trained the newest mem-ber to the staff and provided the battle offi-cers with updates on events from earlier inthe day.

“I receive the reports and determine howto categorize the data,” explained Braner.“Then that data goes to the battle officerand the chief of operations.”

That data is information about missions,operations or events planned or unplannedin 3rd Inf. Div.’s area of responsibility oralong its boundaries.

Once given the information, the battleofficers package and present it to the divi-sion commander who relies on the infor-mation to be not only accurate and rele-vant, but timely and brief Braner said.

Why would leaders pull NCOs from theline to sit and shift through mounts ofinformation and make reports? Because itis the experience these NCOs bring to thestaff position that makes them the logicalchoice for the job.

“Assign a ‘high-speed’ noncommissionedofficer as the battle captain, or at least as anassistant. NCOs are among the great under-used assets in TOC operations,” said Capt.Marcus F. de Oliverira, deputy chief,Leaders’ Training Program, Joint ReadinessTraining Center, Fort Polk, La.

Another NCO whose field experiencemakes him an asset to the battle staff is Sgt.Jordan McCue, an infantry Soldier withDivision G3 Operations. He admits he didnot know what to expect as a battle NCO.

“Initially the biggest challenge was thechange from (being in) a line unit to sittingin front of a computer,” said McCue.

Having worked in the DOC for a less thana McCue says he sees firsthand how impor-tant the flow of information and good coor-dination among the division staff directlyaffects ground forces.

“Working here helps me better under-stand what happens in the command’sdecision-making process, how many peo-ple are involved from the top down,”McCue said.

“There are a lot more people involved

than one would think and they know whatthey are doing,” he added.

The infantryman said he watches andlearns about the challenges faced by theleaders when division assets are redistrib-uted.

“I get to see the multiple factors that thecommander must consider that groundSoldiers do not think about, such as weath-er or the priority of need. I get to see the bigpicture, every little thing that takes place inthe units,” said McCue.

Battle staff positions are filled withSoldiers who must manage the day-to-dayoperations of corps, division, regiment,group, brigade, battalion and squadroncommand post. The command post is usu-ally located in a large space of a comman-der’s headquarters and is established forthe planning, monitoring and guiding theexecution of the commander’s decisions.

Battle staff NCOs are skill level three,sergeants first class or higher who have suc-cessfully completed either the Battle StaffNoncommissioned Officer Course or theresident Sergeants Major Course.

Battle NCOs continue mission on virtual battlefield

Pvt. Jerome F. Arp4th BCT Public Affairs

During 4th Brigade Combat Team’srecent deployment to the NationalTraining Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., thebrigade’s training mainly consisted of asimulated deployment to the Al Ghaziprovince. This portrays a similar one inIraq that the 4th Brigade Soldiers mightexpect to inhabit while deployed to theregion soon.

One of the central themes of the train-ing is working together with the localprovincial government, the Iraqi policeand the Iraqi army forces to form a com-bined effort to defeat insurgents andimprove infrastructure.

In order to establish a good workingrelationship with his Iraqi counterpartsearly on, Col. Thomas James, the com-mander of the 4th Brigade Combat Team,invited Col. Nazar Annukshabandi, thecommander of the 2nd Brigade, 11thDivision, Iraqi army and members of theAl Ghazi Province government (all por-trayed by roll-players at the training cen-ter) to a traditional Arabic dinner atCombined Operating Base King April 27.

The purpose of the dinner was to createa relationship between Iraqi andAmerican forces and cooperate togetherto forge a plan of reconstruction for the Al

Ghazi Province.The Ghazi Provincial Governor, Bursuq

Dahrr Al-Ardawy, who attended the din-ner, had previously met James during ameeting at Medina Wasl, where the gover-nor and his family reside. During themeeting, James offered support to Ardawyto ensure economic growth and prosperi-ty.

Members of the 4th BCT did everythingthey could to make sure their guests werecomfortable, to include choosing musicthat would make them feel at home.

"We played Nazim AlGhazim, who is anauthentic and popular Iraqi musician,"said Maj. Adil Elnour, the linguistic officerwith 4th BCT. "Nazim is the Americanequivalent to Justin Timberlake."

The 4th BCT Soldiers also provided anauthentic Arabic dinner.

"Tea, flat bread, and Halaal meat, whichcontains no pork, was served, in additionto American food," said Elnour.

One of the main issues addressed at thedinner was the development of a plan forimproving training and fulfilling the needsof the Iraqi army and Iraqi security forces.

After the dinner and throughout theremainder of the exercise,Annukshabandi and the Iraqi army metwith James and 4th BCT regularly, whichhelped them to maintain a relationship oftrust while achieving their goals together.

4th BCT learns Iraqi customs at NTC

Spc. Emily J. WIlsoncroft3rd Inf. Div. Public Affairs

When he signed on with the 3rdInfantry Division for a job thatwould help him get his hands dirty,British Army Maj. Tom Donohoedidn’t count on that dirt being any-where outside of America.

“I was offered the opportunity toselect where I wanted to go next,”said Donohoe, 3rd Inf. Div.’sdeputy division engineer, who isoriginally from Gorey, Ireland. “Ichose this assignment because Iwanted to come over and see theStates.”

His “sunshine tour,” as theBritish Army calls it, didn’t exactlyturn out as planned, though – afterless than a year at Fort Stewart, hedeployed here to Iraq with theMarne Division.

“This was a chance for me to seehow the U.S. Army works, and howwe in the British Army might ben-efit from learning about the equip-ment and systems you use,” hesaid. “The systems and organiza-tions you use are the biggest differ-ence for me, but I just keep myeyes and ears open and learn thatway.”

Although it’s not his first timehere, having been in theater withthe British Army in 2003, Donohoesaid the U.S. Army experience is“completely different from any-thing I’ve ever done.”

“This is my first post as a major,”he said. “Most of my peers aredoing staff jobs right now … Iknew if I did this, it would be morehands-on.”

“Here, I’m responsible for theday-to-day operations of the

DIVENG section. I’m the represen-tative at the division-level workinggroup, and I’m the lead represen-tative for the Base ManagementWorking Group,” Donohoe contin-ued. “I also coordinate with the(Multinational Corps – Iraq) engi-neer staff.”

Another Marne engineer, Capt.Marcus Bynum, said he’s beenworking with Donohoe for the past10 months.

“I have learned a lot about howthe Royal Engineers are structured,how they operate, and how they dothings in comparison to the waywe do them,” Bynum said. “Thekey is in understanding the bigCoalition picture, and that we allwork together for the same goal.”

Donohoe noted that a key differ-ence between American andBritish engineers had to do with

the number of Soldiers here inrelationship to their training.

“Because we’re such a smallgroup, my Soldiers were armoredengineers who also had artisanskills,” Donohoe said. “I thinksomething that the U.S. needs todo is cross-train Soldiers more,especially because its numbersaren’t as high as they used tobefore.”

Bynum said that despite the dif-ferences in their training, the twoofficers have no compatibilityproblems while getting their jobdone. He said that just under-standing that Americans do some-thing one way and other armies doit another does not mean thateither way is wrong.

Donohoe added that he’salready benefited from workingwith the 3rd Inf. Div.

“I really like the level of team-work here,” he said. “It’s especiallygreat to see the motivation theMarne song brings to this workingenvironment.”

“Also, your (physical training)and combatives are very good,”Donohoe continued. “I’ll definitelybring those back with me. And Iwas very surprised at the way(U.S.) Soldiers are deployed for solong without an end date … I willgo back to the U.K. with a greaterrespect for them.”

Even though his trip to the U.S.didn’t go precisely the way hethought it would, Donohoe said hedidn’t mind too much.

“There’s always something to begained from new experience,” hesaid. “But when I finish here, Iwant to see much more ofAmerica.”

Deputy DIVENG gains new, unexpected experience

Pvt. Jerome F. Arp

Col. Thomas James, (center, seated) commander of 4th Brigade Combat Team, talks to localIraqi leaders from the provincial government, Iraqi police and Iraqi army about security andreconstruction issues at the Partnership Dinner, which was held in the Al Ghazi Province, asimulated Iraqi province at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif.

Pvt. Jerome F. Arp

Sgt. Eri’ka Jones, 4th BCT, works on maintaining a firewall pro-gram for the brigade’s communications system at NTC.

Rock of the Marne Frontline 13AMay 17, 2007 The

Nondice PowellHunter Public Affairs

Kerri Hartwick, the wife of an Apache heli-copter pilot who was shot down in Iraq, briefs25 Combat Aviation Brigade Family ReadinessGroup leaders about the events that followedher husband’s death approximately one yearago.

Hartwick was one of several leaders whoexplained the needs of widowed spouses andtheir Families and the part they would play asliaisons on a two-to-three person Family CareTeam. The CAB is conducting additionaltraining for those interested in supporting

their peers through the grieving processshould that become necessary. Areas of train-ing include how to handle the media; the roleof the casualty assistant officer; understand-ing the grieving process and how to fill the gapand keep the household going until Family orother support steps in for longer-term sup-port.

“The prerequisites [to participate] are a car-ing attitude and a willingness to help others,”said Kimberly Ball, wife of Daniel Ball,Combat Aviation Brigade commander, andone of the training organizers.

Those interested in attending future train-ing should contact Debra Doser, 655-7004.

Lynch stressed that counter insurgentoperations take time, roughly about nineyears. The coalition has only been in Iraqfor four.

The Iraqi security forces are comingalong very well, Lynch said. He has twoIraqi divisions that work with Task ForceMarne, and the division commanders areIraqi, neither Sunni nor Shia.

“They’re focused on what’s good for thepeople of Iraq,” Lynch said.

A new approach to providing stability inIraq is the use of combat outposts.Combat outposts are a step forward in get-ting Soldiers out into the public, makingIraqis feel they are in a secure environ-ment. The security of the combat outpostsis also important.

Using combat outposts and workingclosely with the Iraqi security forcesensures the security of the Iraqi people.That security will allow the governmentand economy to grow and flourish. Again,though. Lynch urged caution and patience.

“You can’t build a governmentovernight,” he said. “How long is it going totake? It’s going to take time. We’re makingprogress.”

Taking the fight to the enemy is part ofthe reason security is increasing, Lynchsaid.

“In my battle space, I have no restric-tions,” he said. “There are Shia insurgents,

there are Sunni insurgents, and there areelements influenced by Iran. We’re takingthe fight to all three of those elements. Ifthey are against Iraq and against the Iraqiand coalition forces, I have no politicalrestrictions on conducting operationsagainst them.”

Still, Lynch stressed that taking the fightto the enemy is hard work. Task ForceMarne Soldiers work 15 hour days, buthave seven hours to sleep and two hours ofpersonal time. The personal time is forphysical and spiritual fitness, he said.

“This is a marathon, not a sprint,” Lynchsaid. Breaking the day into segmentsallows Soldiers to both work and take thetime they need to ground themselves toprepare for the next day.

Lynch also gave an update on therecently deployed 2nd Brigade CombatTeam, the Combat Aviation Brigade, andthe Sustainment Brigade. The brigadeswill join Task Force Marne.

“I’ll commit them to combat operationsas soon as they get here, having been prop-erly trained at Fort Stewart and havingrefined their skills in Kuwait,” Lynch said.

The 4th Brigade Combat Team willremain at Fort Stewart until September,giving the brigade three more months totrain and spend time with Families, Lynchsaid. He also reemphasized that all unitswill now deploy for 15 months.

VTC From Page 1A

CAB FRG receives team training CAB FRG receives team training

Community addressed at State of the Garrison brief Nondice PowellHunter Public Affairs

Civilian workers and other members ofthe Hunter Army Airfield community gath-ered May 9 at the Hunter Club for the Stateof the Garrison. Fort Stewart and HunterArmy Airfield Garrison Commander Col.Todd Buchs briefed the attendees on vari-ous topics affecting the installation.

Buchs spoke about how the goal for theArmy Emergency Relief Fund was met,with just a week left in the campaign, andsurpassed.

“I am extremely proud of where we gotwith this campaign this year,” said Buchs.“We are currently at 207% of our goal.”

Buchs explained how some of the moneyfrom the installation’s third ArmyCommunity of Excellence award will beused.

“Almost the entire $2 million will bespent on facilities which lead to events andactivities for our youth,” said Buchs. “Twomulti-purpose courts will be built on

Hunter, one on each side of the runway forbasketball, skating and more.”

The focus with spending most of themoney on programs for the youth dealswith concerns for opportunities for ouryouth, especially during times while theirparents are deployed. The goal is to givethe youth the support they need and activ-ities to help keep them busy and away fromsituations which could cause trouble.

“We have to support Families to supportour Soldiers,” explained Buchs. “Soldiersneed to know their Families are taken careof.”

A taped message from 3rd InfantryDivision commanding general, Maj. GenRick Lynch, currently deployed to Iraq,echoed the thoughts on the importance ofthe roles the civilians play in supportingSoldiers and their Families.

“You’re helping win this global war onterrorism,” said Lynch. “Your role there isas important as our role here.”

Lynch asked those attending the State ofthe Garrison to give themselves a pat on the

back. He explained we already have a greatinstallation, but we need to do what we canto take it to the next level.

Buchs explained some of the various pro-jects helping to take the installation to thenext level. Signs on Stewart and Hunter arebeing upgraded to a set standard, severalnew hangars are under-construction atHunter, the old fitness center at Hunter willbe torn down, and much more. Amongsome of the issues being pushed are firestations and motor pools. There are motorpools which have issues which have notbeen corrected since the 1950’s. It is anissue which has been brought before high-er levels within the Army and to Congress.

“People didn’t realize until we showedthem how bad it was,” said Buchs. “Evenwith the resource challenges the Army has,it’s recognized that we have a problem here.We can’t continue this way with what thisnation is asking of this installation.”

Buchs showed those attending the Stateof the Garrison what the goal is for themotor pools and other areas on base. In

addition to solutions for motor pools,Buchs addressed projects which havehelped save money.

One Greenbelt project, part of the Army’sLean Six Sigma initiative to preserve effi-ciency and cut back on wasted resources,has saved the installation money it spendsin regards to job orders. The project result-ed in a cost avoidance of more than$500,000 and a direct savings of more than$250,000.

Before the State of the Garrison came to aclose, two civilian workers were awardedfor their efforts in continuing their educa-tion. Sara Rudolph-Pollard, ArmyCommunity Service, and Rosa Oates,Directorate of Morale, Welfare andRecreation were honored for receiving col-lege degrees. Both used the ArmyEducation Center to earn their degrees.Rudolph-Pollard received a Masters ofScience in Administrative Justice from theUniversity of Louisville and Oates receiveda Bachelors of Business in BusinessAdministration from St. Leo College.

Nondice PowellHunter Public Affairs

Several students from the Hunter Army Airfieldcommunity were awarded for the efforts in startingor continuing their college education. Six studentswere awarded scholarships from the Hunter ThriftShop and Hunter Spouses’ Club during a ceremonyat the Hunter Club May 8.

“As a result of the joint efforts of the HunterThrift Shop and the Hunter Spouses’ Club, count-less volunteers have come together providingmany hours; volunteering their time and effort toraise funds the scholarship committee could awardto outstanding recipients,” said Kim Ball, memberof the Hunter Spouses’ Club. “We congratulatetheir accomplishments and wish them the best ofluck in the future.”

The accomplishments and challenges the recipi-ents have overcome are varied. As the spouses andchildren of servicemembers, they are involved inmany activities including sports, Family readinessgroups, churches, and volunteer organizations.They are practiced at overcoming life’s obstacles.

“She is the spouse of a veteran,” said SherrieLewis as she spoke about Maria Botelho, one of thescholarships awardees. “She has three children,two who are also in college.”

Lewis read part of one of Botelho’s recommenda-tion letters. The letter explained how Botelho hashandled the challenges of a son diagnosed with

cancer while she sent others off to college whilebeing a military spouse and trying to return toschool. She explained they felt she handled withgrace and immense inner-strength challenges inlife which could have others apart.

Botelho received a $1000 scholarship. It was herthird award from the committee and will aid her asshe begins her course work in dental hygiene.

Five other scholarships were awarded. StephenBulls was awarded a $300 scholarship, JosephMcGary and Ziyah Stanton were awarded $500scholarships and Leandra Jones and SabrinaGourley were awarded $750 scholarships.

“Thank your Families, thank your parents andthank the people around you for pushing you andhelping to support you,” said Lt. Col. Carl Coffman,Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander.“Educating yourself is the most important thingthat you can do to continue the hope, the durabili-ty and the continued success of not only you as anindividual but us as a nation.”

Coffman also urged the recipients to give back totheir communities since so many have given tosupport them in their efforts to continue their edu-cation.

According to a flyer at the scholarship ceremony,volunteers at the Hunter Thrift Shop logged morethan 4,000 hours of their time. The thrift shopdonates approximately $10,000 to the Hunter andSavannah communities each year, some of thatmoney in the form of the scholarships awarded.

Thrift shop, Spouses’ Club gives back to the community

Nondice Powell

Maria Botelho is awarded a $1000 scholarship by the Hunter Thrift Shopand Hunter Spouses’ Club May 8. Hunter Army Airfield GarrisonCommander Lt. Col. Carl Coffman and Thrift Shop Manager Linda Prichardwere among those recognizing Botelho and the other recipients for theirefforts in continuing or beginning their college education.

14A Frontline May 17, 2007The 3rd Infantry Division

Sgt. Natalie Rostek3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Leadersfrom the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team met with a localcontractor Wednesday, at the Phas Elementary School in AlZatia, Iraq, to discuss plans to repair and repave a sectionof a road called Butler Range Road.

“A project like this brings together the local people andCoalition Forces in a project to help employ the local pop-ulace,” Capt. Jimmy Hathaway, commander of

Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 1st Calvary Regiment,3rd HBCT, said.

After the area of construction had been established andthe date construction was to begin was agreed upon, lead-ers from 3/1 Cav., along with civil affairs and pyschologicaloperations Soldiers, visited the local shopping district ofFour Corners. There, they purchased a generator battery topower the Al Halendia’s clinic lights, refrigeration system,and air conditioning.

The Soldiers patrolled Mada’in Qada and used it as anopportunity to talk to locals about their town and their

thoughts on the current situation.“We engage the locals to get their attitudes on the CF,

Iraqi security forces, and the local government,” Hathawaysaid.

During their mission, the team interacted with the localchildren, and gave them soccer balls, stationary, and candy.

Capt. Damond Davis, the 3/1 Cav.’s fire support officerexplained that interacting with the local children today canpotentially further strengthen relations between CoalitionForces and the local population of the Mada’in Qada in thefuture.

Iraqi contractor assists with 3/1 Cav’s mission

Spc. Ben Hutto3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER —The 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regimentconducted a cordon and search and an eco-nomic assessment of the Four Corners mar-ket area southwest of Narhwan May 10. Itwas the regiment’s first squadron-sized mis-sion since their arrival to Iraq in late March.

“We came here and were looking at wayswe could help stimulate the local economyand create job opportunities for the peopleof this area,” said Lt. Col. John Kolasheski,3/1 Cav. commander. “I think it was verysuccessful and we were able to make a state-ment, ‘We are here to help.’”

Squadron members cordoned off themarket place at 10:30 a.m. and spent the day

talking with local business owners andsearching cars for anything suspicious.

“The people had a lot to talk with usabout, but their main concern was security,”said Capt. Tavares Tukes, 3/1 Cav. adjutant.“We have a massive amount of projects wewant to assist the Iraqi government with,and we used today to get a gauge of whatwas most important to the people.”

Cavalry Soldiers and the Iraqi nationalpolice conducted random vehicle searchesbut found nothing suspicious.

“The fact that we didn’t find any weaponsor explosives was a good sign that the localpolice force is doing a good job,” said Tukes.Kolasheski was equally happy with the INPperformance.

“A huge part of this operation involved theIraqi police and the National Iraqi police,”

said Kolasheski. “I think it was reflective oftheir ability. They can reach out and helptheir own people a heck of a lot faster thanwe are able to.”

The cavalry unit secured the Four Cornersmarket district of Narhwan and Salaman Pakregion’s economic hubs and locked it downin a matter of minutes.

“I think that this shows the insurgent ele-ment what we are capable of,” Tukes said,“By shutting down such a big area thatquickly, we demonstrated to them that wecan stop their entire operation in a shortamount of time.”

While the display showed 3/1 Cav.’s abilityto perform, they were conscious not to dis-rupt the average citizens’ daily lives any-more than needed.

“The challenge was to ensure the popu-

lace understood that we were doing it fortheir safety and security,” said Tukes. “It canbe a very fine line, but I think we accom-plished that with the police. People werevery accommodating. They allowed us tosearch with no problems. We were invitedinto several homes and shops. So that is agood sign.”

“Our guys were very professional and dida good job of executing their duties,” saidTukes.

According to Tukes, the squadron willwork hard to keep a good rapport with thecitizens that frequent the Four Corners andplan on monitoring the area frequently withtheir Iraqi partners.

“I think the operation was a good way tostart operations in the Four Corners area.”he said.

Cav searches Four Corners district

Sgt. Natalie Rostek3rd HBCT Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Soldiersof the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd InfantryDivision, honored two fallen heroes in a memorial ser-vice held May 12 at FOB Hammer.

Sgt. Blake C. Stephens and Spc. Kyle A. Little, bothmembers of the Command Security Detachment for the3rd HBCT, were killed May 8 when a roadside bombexploded near their vehicle as they were patrolling nearJisr Diyala.

Stephens was assigned to the 3rd HBCT in September2006 as a fire support specialist. During the currentdeployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom V, he

was serving as vehicle commander for the unit’sCommand Security Detachment.

“(Stephens) was a disciplined, hard, physically fit,good-looking Soldier who took his job seriously,” saidCol. Wayne W. Grigsby, Jr., commander of 3rd HBCT.

Stephens is survived by his wife Erin.Little, 21, of West Boylston, Mass., was assigned to the

3rd HBCT in September 2006 as a fire support specialist.During the current deployment, he was serving as a dri-ver for the Command Security Detachment.

“(Little) was an outstanding Soldier, a great friend, andfor some, a brother,” said Sgt. Wayne E. Felkins, a forwardobserver for the 3rd HBCT who worked with Little. “Hewas a giver, not a taker. He always had your back.”

Little is survived by his wife Tiffany.

3rd HBCT honors fallen heroes

Sgt. Natalie Rostek

Members of the 3rd HBCT’s command security detail mournthe loss of two team members during a memorial service heldin honor of Sgt. Blake C. Stephens and Spc. Kyle A. Little, atForward Operating Base Hammer.

Special to the Frontline

COMBAT OUTPOST CLEARY,Iraq – Leaders and Soldiers fromthe 1st Battalion, 15th InfantryRegiment were awarded the 3rdInfantry Division combat patchSunday, at Combat OutpostCleary, Iraq. Along with theMarne combat patch, 11 DragonSoldiers were awarded variousbadges and medals including onePurple Heart, one Combat MedicBadge, three Combat ActionBadges, and six Combat

Infantryman’s Badges. Awardingthe troops were 1/15 Inf. battalioncommander, Lt. Col. Jack Marr,and the command sergeantmajor, Command Sgt. Maj. MarkMoore.

“Both Command Sgt. Maj.Moore and I are very proud toserve the Soldiers and it is twice asspecial because we have(Operation Iraqi Freedom III) vetsbut there are new members to theteam and this is their first time,and that makes it extra special,”said Marr.

1/15 Infantry earns awardsCourtesy Photo

Pfc. Monica K. SmithCAB Public Affairs

CAMP BEURING, KUWAIT – 3rd InfantryDivision’s Combat Aviation Brigade took part ina three-day convoy training course in KuwaitMay 5. The training incorporated classroominstructions on improvised explosive devices,tactical procedures and also included trainingin reflexive firing. The weekend culminated in a6.5 mile convoy training course.

During day one Soldiers had classroominstructions on IEDs, military operations inurban terrain, casualty evacuation, and properconvoy procedures such as battle drills, react-ing to an IED, and convoy formations.

Day two focused on reflexive fire whichtrains Soldiers to instinctively aim theirweapons and fire. The Soldiers spent timerehearsing their battle drills and prepared fortheir convoy by doing a dry-run through a por-tion of the convoy lane. It was during this timestrengths and weaknesses were discussed.

“They gave us every scenario we might haveand right after every scenario we would do anafter action review,” said Spc. Shaneka

Simmons, E Company 4th Battalion, 3rdAviation Regiment.

Day three comprised of executing the 6.5-mile convoy lane. Soldiers faced five checkpoints and at each point was a new obstacle toovercome.

“Cars would try to infiltrate your convoy soyou had to position your trucks to keep themout,” said Staff Sgt. Chris Carrier, B Company,603rd Aviation Support Battalion. “IEDs wereon the side of the road to see if the lead vehiclecould see them. They want to see how you reactwhen all hell breaks loose. It was really realisticand it was hard.”

In addition to cars infiltrating and IEDs, theconvoys faced large vehicles blocking the roadand practiced how to react to local nationals.The convoy drove through a simulated villagewhere Solders had to maneuver and contendwith the village residents.

“The last time I was here we didn’t know howto react to Iraqi people,” Spc. Karli Hernandez,E Co. 4/3 Avn. “That part was new to me.”

While the Soldiers executed the convoy lane,instructors and company commanderswatched from nearby humvees. The instructors

watched the convoys and listened to the con-voy commander communicate through theradio, taking notes on what they did and howthey responded to each incident. Instructorsnever stopped the training or corrected anyactions but instead waited until the end to per-form an After Action Review.

“We did really well considering this was ourfirst time,” said Simmons. “We had retirees whotaught us things and brought up things maybeour NCOs may have missed. This was challeng-ing for everyone and we had to dig deep.During the AAR not only the NCOs got askedquestions, so did the privates. They gave us all achallenge.”

For members of 4/3 Avn this particular train-ing proved to be especially difficult. Theyarrived in Kuwait only a few days before pack-ing up their belongings again and heading outfor the three days of training. Many were stilljetlagged and found the limited amounts ofsleep, in addition to not yet being acclimatizedto the sand and heat, to be the biggest chal-lenge, said Hernandez.

However, Capt. Christine Takats, comman-der, E Co., 4/3 Avn, said she was proud to see

how motivated the Soldiers were. “I thought the Soldiers performed above and

beyond what was asked,” said Takats. “After being in country for only two days, no

one got to sleep till 10 or 11 at night, and thenwe woke up at three, worked all day, training allday, running the whole night. We didn’t have alot of ice, they slept on the floor, not much air,worn out, dehydrated – their performance wasamazing. They were doing their jobs. It makesleaders proud to see Soldiers that are motivat-ed.”

“Every time you do something you learnsomething,” said Simmons. “I knew a lotalready but I still learned something. I learnedhow to drive a 5-ton, how to get acclimatized tothe heat - sometimes you have to drink hotwater to survive. I think everyone learnedsomething.”

A piece of advice repeated to many of theSoldiers was to hydrate during the training.

“Be prepared for long strenuous days, bringtraining aids for down time to practice andrehearse, be motivated and pay attention - thisis one training lane that has been known tosave lives,” said Parson.

Sgt. 1st Class Thomas MillsCAB Public Affairs

Aviation Soldiers with the 3rd Infantry Division are inKuwait readying themselves for the flight north to Iraq. TheCombat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division Soldiersarrived last week and have been training. The brigade is setto move into Iraq this summer.

“For a lot of Soldiers it’s their first deployment. It’s the lastopportunity for realistic training before they go to combat,”said Sgt. 1st Class Aki Paylor, Headquarters andHeadquarters Company, 3rd CAB.

Part of the training consisted of training in combat logis-tics patrols, and environmental training for the pilots.

“Environmental training is training the crews to conduct

flight operations in the current environmental conditions,”said Chief Warrant Officer Randy Kirgiss. HHC CAB.

In the desert of the Middle-East that means thick sand anddust causing “brown out” conditions, and other situations ofextremely limited visibility, he said.

“The pilots have to take those conditions into account andlearn procedures on how to land in the sand and dust,” saidKirgiss.

While the Soldiers arrived from Hunter Army Airfield fullyqualified on their weapons the also went to the ranges to firetheir individual weapons, said Maj. Clyde Cochrane, HHCCAB.

“It’s not to qualify, they’ve already done that,” saidCochrane.

“(It’s) going out to verify the functionality of yourweapon.”

For many of the Soldiers in Aviation Brigade this is not thefirst time they’ve been to Kuwait about to move north to Iraq.

To those it’s the little things that count, like the availabilityof ice, something scarce in 2005 when the brigade lastdeployed to Iraq through Kuwait.

Having ice enhances the training, said Paylor, especially inMay in Kuwait, where temperatures routinely go as high as110 degrees.

“The heat is another adversity leaders have to account for.We have to plan ahead so we can sustain our combat power,”he said.

Mostly, Paylor said, Kuwait is an opportunity for theSoldiers to prepare mentally for the move to Iraq.

“I’ve seen a lot of Soldiers with their eyes wide open thelast couple of days as reality sets in as they get closer andcloser to combat.”

Rock of the Marne Frontline 15AMay 17, 2007 The

Aviation arrives in Kuwait

Aviators learn the rules on the road to Iraq