89th Military Police Brigade Col. Patrick Williams

Brigade CommanderCommand Sgt. Maj.

Peter LaddBrigade Command

Sergeant Major

GRIFFIN WARRIOR STAFF

2nd Lt. Crystal MaddenBrigade Public Affairs Officer

Spc. Candace LeBrigade Public Affairs Specialist

Editor and Lead Photographer

UNIT PUBLIC AFFAIRS REPRESENTATIVES

1st Lt. Amber Frederick93rd MP BattalionFort Bliss, Texas

Sgt. Christina Cosgrove97th MP Battalion

Fort Riley, KS1st. Lt. Rachel Pierre-Louis

720th MP BattalionAfghanistan

Spc. Jessica Ryder720th MP BattalionFort Hood, Texas

The Griffin Warrior is authorized by AR 360-1 for members of the U.S. Army. Contents of this pub-lication are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the 89th Mil-tiary Police Brigade. It is published quarterly using offset printing by the Public Affairs Officer, 89th Millitary Police Brigade, ATTN: AFVP-BDE-PA, Building 122, Battalion Avenue, Fort Hood, TX 76544 commercial 254-287-0152. No printed cir-culation.

Table of ContentsStaff Letters

CommanderGriffin 6 Letterpage 4Commander Sergeant MajorGriffin 7 Letterpage 5Family Readiness Assistant“Tis the season to promote self-care”page 6Chaplain“The Difference a Baby Can Make”page 7

News64th MP ‘Guardians’ show foreign friendly forces what it means to be an NCOpage 8Combat medics receive intense trainingpage 10

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Soldiers of the 97th MP Battalion clear their weapons after a successful run through a combat live fire exercise

November 8, 2011 at Fort Riley, Kan.

News (cont.)MPs Participate in Warfighter Team Competitionpage 11House Creek Elementary partnership growspage 13

MPs bring history class to life by reading to studentspage 14Bliss team wins MP Warfighter Competitionpage 15

FeaturesBliss MPs stake claim at local schoolpage 1689th serves Griffin Family on Turkey Daypage 17

MPs take a bite out of crime through safety educationpage 18Guidance from abovepage 19

Photo Essays720th headquarters prepares to delploypage 20Fall Festivalpage 22Law Enforcement Certexpage 26

“Take Charge” Battalion takes it to the fieldpage 30Mount up with the 411th MP Company in Kandahar City, Afghanistanpage 20

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Brigade Commander

Col Patrick williams89th MP brigade commander

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First and foremost, entering into the holiday season, I’d like to thank all the Soldiers, DA Civilians and Family members of the Griffin Brigade for their outstanding support and dedication that has made this brigade successful over the past calendar year.

Our Soldiers are the heartbeat of the organization and we wouldn’t have the great reputation we have without each and every one of you.

The performance of units in the brigade has been second to none during calendar year 2011. The 97th MP Battalion competed in the Army Supply Excellence competition, although it didn’t win, competing has made the organization much better. The 93rd MP Battalion produced the best MP team in the Army during the 2011 Warfighter Competition. Finally, the 64th MP Company, 720th MP Battalion, won the Eagle Award, allowing the unit to carry the title, the best MP Company in FORSCOM. I’m honored to be associated with all of you!

In calendar year 2012, the brigade will increasingly become steady state with more of our units at home station. To posture our units for success, it is important for leaders and units to continue to enhance those systems that are required to ensure our success in a Garrison environment.

A few examples are: Training Management, Command Supply and Maintenance Discipline and Personnel Readiness, it is these systems that allowed the Army to sustain itself over the past 10 years.

With more units at home station, it is important that commanders establish an ARFORGEN model that will allow units to rotate through training cycles to ensure combat readiness. For many in the Army prior to 911, we called this a Green, Red, Amber training model.

With the exception of units preparing to deploy, our focus should be maintaining Soldier proficiency on the basics. If Soldiers know how to shoot, move, communicate, and save a buddy’s life on the battlefield, the rest will fall into place when the time comes.

However, I would ask that commanders take advantage of all opportunities to enhance law enforcement training with MTTs on domestic violence, child abuse, active shooter, and building partnerships with local law enforcement agencies.

Our success in garrison depends on our law enforcement knowledge, and the level of professionalism our Soldiers have as they work within our communities.

During the Holiday Season, take advantage of the half day schedule as much as possible. This is a great opportunity for each of us to recharge our batteries and spend quality time with our Families and friends.

It is imperative that each of us “Maintain Ourselves” as we continue to build resilience across our formations.

In conclusion, I’d again like to thank the Soldiers and Families of the Griffin Brigade for all you do to make this the best Military Police brigade in the Army. I wish you a safe, happy and enjoyable holiday season.

Proven in Battle!

noncommissioned officer a better opportunity to “hone-their-skills” than Sergeants Time Training.

As previously stated in several quarterly training briefs, training events, visits, and in the brigade’s annual training guidance, noncommissioned officers are the primary trainers of our Soldiers. STT affords a prime opportunity for developing our first line leaders while they gain the confidence of their Soldiers. Therefore, it is imperative that leaders institute STT as a regular part of their unit’s training program and ensure it is monitored by each respective first sergeant and command sergeant major closely.

For STT to be successful, leaders should set this time aside exclusively for the NCO leadership to train their Soldiers on mission essential task list related tasks under realistic as possible conditions – avoid classroom instruction. STT is hands-on, practical training involving all Soldiers given by their NCOs. STT is not “company time” nor is it a round robin training event. Additionally, annual mandatory training, physical readiness training, inventories, weapons and routine maintenance, etc. should not occur during STT. Leaders must be concerned not only with the quality of their unit’s training, but also with the process by which the training is attained. STT affords a prime opportunity for NCOs to motivate their Soldiers, help them grow, develop them personally and professionally, and inspire them to achieve their maximum potential.

Additionally, STT enhances unit readiness and cohesion, and allows junior NCOs to learn and exercise the Army’s training management system at the lowest level. As outlined in Field Manual 7-22.7, The Army Noncommissioned Officers Guide, “The key is to train the trainer so that he can train his Soldiers”. Let’s look at our STT program and give our junior NCOs those opportunities they deserve to develop, not only themselves, but their Soldiers. We owe them this.

To the leadership within the brigade, thank you for taking care of our most precious resource: The Griffin Soldier. To the Soldiers, thank you for your dedication, hard work, and total commitment in making this brigade the best in the Army.

Greetings from the “Great Place”! There isn’t a better place to start than opening this year with the continued discussion on leader development, as I started in last year’s edition. In concert with this, we will be hosting a series of events during which we will discuss a variety of different topics with your senior leaders. Included in these topics will be the brigade’s plan on continuing to develop our Soldiers into noncommissioned officers and the “way ahead” towards the continued development of our junior noncommissioned officers into senior leaders. This also includes visits from Human Resources Command (Enlisted Personnel Management Division) and other guest speakers and training events.

As most of you already know, the past year has brought with it changes in the Army that have affected the way we promote our Soldiers and noncommissioned officers, the process in which we re-enlist quality Soldiers for continued and future service, the way we track the readiness of our Soldiers, and so forth. However, the one constant that has remained unchanged is the role our noncommissioned officers have as the primary trainers of our Soldiers. In fact, it has gained momentum. And with that, no other training event allows our junior

Brigade Command Sergeant Major

89th MP brigade command Sergeant majorcommand sgt maj Peter ladd

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Proven in Battle, Griffin 7.

During this busy season, being overwhelmed seems to be the norm. We rush around spending our money, attempting to make the season memorable. However, we’re often so harried that we don’t take the time to appreciate the trea-sures we have; time, freedom, Family and friends. One young couple was forced to travel during this sea-son just to participate in a census. You see, a foreign power wanted to levy a tax on them to pay the soldiers garrisoned on their land. More than that, it was a horrible time for this couple to travel, since the wife was full term in her first pregnancy, and they barely arrived at their destination in time for her to deliver. At their destination, they found all possible lodging full, so they ended up in an animal stable, where she delivered her baby. Of course many people in the past, and even today, go

The difference a baby makesBy Chaplain (Maj.) Brian Crane89th MP Bde. Chaplain

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through even more trying circumstances than these. But it’s not the trial of the parents that makes this simple nativ-ity story so compelling, it’s the difference the baby made. Anyone who has ever cared for a child for more than five minutes knows that they need constant attention, thereby creating more work than the inexperienced could ever imagine. However, babies in general, and particularly the baby in our story, represent much more than washing and feeding chores. Babies represent hope. Hope is one of those intangible qualities that changes every equation. With hope, the future is full of potential. With hope, the trials of today are just a step along the way to a better tomorrow. With hope, any trouble we encounter can be conquered. This baby was both a gift and the fulfillment of a prom-ise, a promise to change the world. My prayer for you this season is that you are gifted in a way that fulfills the needs and longings in your life. Always remember that circum-stances may come and go, but a precious gift is eternal.

Chances are there are families in the Griffin brigade having difficulty dealing with the holiday season. Reasons varying from separation due to deployments or financial hardship triggered by holiday spending. If this is you, it is perfectly okay. Know that we will all be affected in different ways. As a military police brigade and department of emergency services, often referred to as “first responders”, these challenges are not unfamiliar. ‘Tis the Season’ to promote self-care. As temperatures continue to drop, many will experience symptoms of depression: lack of motivation, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, excess weight gain or weight loss caused by unhealthy eating, sleep disturbance, irritability, social withdrawal, and hopelessness. Recent news reports have warned that, ignoring these signs can be costly and consequently, may lead to domestic violence and suicide. Thanks to the Army Family Covenant: Keeping the Promise, hundreds of resources are available to Soldiers and families that teach coping skills, stress management, and self-care.

First, we must admit to ourselves our individual stressors, then attempt to disarm them before they manifest. Regardless of where you live, Army One Source provides easy access to the information, resources and tools you need with just one click. Go to www.ArmyOneSource.com. Other strategies to consider for self-care: visit with our embedded Military and Family Life Consultant who provide free, non-medical short-term, situational problem-solving counseling, on and off the installation; or, our Command Financial Specialist who helps Soldiers and families deal with financial situations for deployments as well as the financial realities of day-to-day military life. Financial education, training, counseling, and referral procedures are established in units to promote sound financial practices, personal integrity, and financial responsibility. Self-care is realizing your individual or family’s need; pursue a resource, service or program that may be helpful before problems manifest. “The Army has made significant progress in fulfilling its promises, but there is more to be done to build an environment where Army Families can prosper and realize their full potential.” Now, let’s do our part. ‘Tis the Season’ to promote and participate in self-care. Proven in Battle!

FRSA/Chaplain

“Tis the Season” to Promote Self-CareBy Patricia Harmon89th MP Bde. Family Readiness Support Assistant

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SOLDIERS LEADERS CIVILIANS FAMILIES

- Leave three feet of space around space heaters- Check electrical outlets for frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs- Inspect fireplace flues and chimneys for leaks and blockages - Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher handy- Lock up medicines and household chemicals - Keep hallways clutter-free and clear of obstacles

https://safety.army.mil

FORT HOOD, Texas – Becoming air assault qualified is a goal of many Soldiers. Maybe it’s the rush of flying head first toward the ground with nothing but a rope to stop your fall. Or it could be the pride one feels when the badge is placed on, (or in some cases, into) the chest. What most Soldiers don’t realize, though, is that there is something more at the core of those sweat drenched weeks than just learning how to jump out of a perfectly good heli-copter. Interested in what makes this training program so successful, the command sergeant major of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, Command Sgt. Maj. Ichiro Shimizu, and his staff observed III Corps trained instructors and Soldiers of the 64th Military Police Company, 720th MP Battalion, 89th MP Brigade demonstrate parts of the air assault obstacle course and repel tower at the Phantom Warrior Repel Tower Facility here Sept. 16. The overall purpose of their visit here was to show the JGSDF how the U.S. Army uses their noncommissioned officers to train and lead its Soldiers. This particular portion of the tour demonstrated how a small group of NCOs can train large groups of enlisted in a short time. “At the lowest level, the Army can conduct large scale operations with NCOs who are willing to train,” said Sgt. 1st Class James Williams Jr., Phantom Warrior Repel Tower Facility noncommissioned officer in charge.

“Over the past month, more than 500 Soldiers were trained by five NCOs at this facility,” Williams said as an example. “When you empower the NCOs, you can accom-plish great things.” Part of that 500, were the 64th MP Co. “Guardians” who spent a week preparing for the overseas visitor. “We learned how to fast rope coming out of a black hawk, climb the rock wall and repel,” Spc. Donovan Mays,

Story by Spc. Candace Le 89th MP Bde. Public Affairs

64th MP ‘Guardians’ show foreign friendly forces what it means to be an NCO

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ABOVE, Soldiers from the 64th MP Co. and III Corps, Fort Hood Repel Tower Facility assist one another up an obstacle that can only be completed by using teamwork at the Phantom Warrior Repel Tower Facility Sept. 16. BELOW, Command sergean major of the JGSDF, Command Sgt. Maj. Ichiro Shimizu watches in awe at how U.S. Army Soldiers take on obstacles at the repel tower facility.

Photo by Spc. Candace Le

Photo by Spc. Candace Le

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an MP and team leader in the 64th said listing just a few of the tasks they learned. Mays, one of the few Soldiers who received a coin from the JGSDF SMA that day, took pride in his ability to use a Soldier task to demonstrate his leadership skills. “It feels good to know I can show how to do something and do it effectively,” Mays said. He also spoke about how the training he received helps build valuable leadership skills. “This course teaches you confidence in yourself and your equipment,” Mays said. “Without confidence, you cannot be an effective leader.”

Not only were the visitors all “oohs” and “Aahs,” Wil-liams was also impressed with the unit whose reputation had preceded them. “I chose the 64th because they have disciplined Sol-diers,” Williams said. “They did outstanding. I’ll have to use them again.” After packing up the ropes, carabiners, and miscella-neous battle rattle, these MPs will head back to the streets of the great place to continue their protect and serve mis-sion, while across the Pacific Ocean a country might be reorganizing their defensive forces after what they had seen the MPs do on that day.

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Sgt. Armstrong, 64th MP Co. military policeman and, conducts a repelling jump called “The Aussie” from a repelling tower at the Phantom Warrior Repel Tower Facility Sept. 16. A favorite among Soldiers, the repeller jumps head first and levels out just before landing.

Photo by Cpt. Jessica Rovero

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Combat medics receive intense trainingStory by Sgt. Austan Owen5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

FORT IRWIN, Ca-Soldiers from 2nd and 3rd Platoons, 978 Military Police Company, entered the village of Tiefort to meet with the local police chief in an effort to build bet-ter relations with the key leaders. The unit’s secondary mission was to evaluate a site in the town for a new medical facility during a situational training exercise on Nov. 7. After a brief meeting with the police chief, a firefight erupted. Opposition forces, representing a local terror cell, at-tacked the unit with small-arms fire and detonated multiple IEDs. During the firefight that lasted about 25 minutes, the unit sustained significant mock casualties. Immediately, the medics of the unit sprang into action to treat the wounded. The injured were moved to the safety of vehicles while being protected by the unit’s gunners. The medics and qualified combat lifesaver soldiers provided treatment as more wounded were brought to the immediate casualty collection point. The exercise quickly became a mass casualty training exercise. “I would say that the medics’ actions today were nothing less than heroic,” said Staff Sgt. Robert Karr, platoon Sgt. for 3rd Platoon, 978 MP Company out of Fort Bliss, Texas, 2nd Brigade Support Battalion. “I think that the medics were outstanding; they per-formed above and beyond,” said Karr, “We had a lot of wounded soldiers. We had medics, of junior rank, that took over their portion of the mission.” The unit collected their casualties and egressed from the city to a more defendable location where they regrouped, took accountability and began to organize the situation.

“Once we arrived at the designated, secure casualty col-lection point I took charge,” said Pfc. Camren Bento, medic for 3rd Plt., 978th MP Company. “I separated the wounded from the killed in action, told the CLS guys where to go and began to triage the injured while Staff Sgt. Karr called in a medical evacuation heli-copter.” In the chaos of the situation at the CCP, all the medics worked together to ensure the best treatment possible for the 12 mock wounded during the exercise. “This was a major mass casualty situation,” said Pfc. Jason E. Anderson, medic for 2nd Plt., 978th MP Company, originally from Austin Town, Ohio. “This training was supposed to get me ready to be able to think about how do I slow down, digest the situation and render the best care possible.” “The training today brought a lot of realism to these guys like Bento,” said Karr. “This is what happens; this is what could happen; this is what they need to be prepared for.” “Until they are actually boots on the ground in a situa-tion like this, they don’t get the full idea of what it’s like or what it could be like,” said Karr. The soldiers of the unit take pride in their medics and what they do for them, knowing the training that they re-ceived may one day benefit the unit in combat. “When I joined the Army, I figured the most rewarding job I could do was to be a medic,” said Bento, originally from Oakcreek Wis., “Not only am I out on the front line fighting with my guys and fighting for what our country stands for, [but] at the same time I’m helping save lives. Knowing that your best friend or your good friend gets to see their family again because they could possibly die if you didn’t have these skills.” “Bento amazed me; he is my platoon’s medic and he is going to be with us throughout the duration,” said Karr, “I couldn’t ask for a better guy and if they try to take him, I’m going to fight to keep him.” The training the unit received during the exercise helped strengthen the skills of the medics and bolster the soldiers faith in the care they will receive in the event they are wounded on the battlefield.

Pfc. Camren Bento (right), medic with 3rd Platoon and Sgt. Thomas Mario (left), Medic with Headquarters Plt., 978th MP Co., 2nd BSB, carry wounded off the battlefield during a mass casualty exercise, Nov. 7, at the National Training Center.

Pfc. Camren Bento (center), medic with 3rd Platoon, 978th MP Co., 2nd BSB takes charge direct-ing combat lifesaver quali-fied Soldiers and additional medics to treat mock wounded at the CCP.

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MPs participate in Warfighter Team competition

FORT RILEY, Ks-Three Soldiers with the 977th Military Police Company, 97th Military Police Battalion spent the summer months training for the 70th Warfighter Team com-petition at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Sgt. Alexander Kuegh, Spc. Benjamin Gierl and Spc. Camden Wood were selected to represent the Fort Riley battalion at this year’s competition, Sept. 18 to 22.At the competition, a military police team was selected to represent the military police corps as the standard of excel-lence, said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Barnes, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 97th MP Bn. “The Soldiers of the 97th Military Police Battalion assist, protect and defend the community at home and a na-tion at war. Our Soldiers are professional, expert and lethal. We proudly put forth our best to represent our brothers and sisters in the 97th MP Bn. and the exemplary Soldiers, Families and civilians of the Fort Riley community,” he said. Fort Riley’s Soldiers started the competition strong in the first four events before Gierhl suffered a broken toe in the combatives event. The Fort Riley team placed first in the warrior tasks and battle drills. “I truly believe this was one of the best teams that the battalion has put together in some time, but was just not in

the cards this year,” said 97th MP Bn. Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Quirk. Winning the competition was the 978th MP Co., Fort Bliss, Texas. “The winning team will set the standard for military police teams throughout the MP corps worldwide,” Barnes said. “Aside from awards and recognition for their achieve-ment, the winning team will demonstrate through trials, camaraderie and true grit what soldiering is all about. The top three teams will attend the U.S. Military Police Corps Regiment Ball as guests of honor.” Placing second and third were the 519th MP Bn., Fort Polk, La., and the 94th MP Bn., Yogsan, Korea, respective-ly. The Warfighter Team competition is open to competitors from battalions, divisions, support group provost marshal offices, law enforcement activities, law enforcement com-mands, regional confinement facilities and provisional bat-talions worldwide. This year also marked the 70th year of the Military Po-lice Corps, and the competition took place during the 2011 Military Police Corps Regimental Anniversary, Sept. 19 to 21. The motto this year was, “Three Strands, on Profession – 70 Years of Professionalism in Support of the Army’s Mission.”

Story by Shandi Dix1st Inf. Div. Post

From the top of a 35-foot tower, Soldiers rappel im-mediately follow-ing firing weapons during Event 8, Reflex-ive Fire, during the 2011 Warfighter Competi-tion at Fort Leon-ard Wood, Mo., Sept. 18 through 21. Photo by Michael Tolzmann, U.S. Army.

(from left to right) Spc. Wood, Sgt. Kragenbrink and Spc. Geril, the 97th MP Bn. team of MP’s for the 70th Annual Warfighter Challenge pose together at the beginning of the competition.

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Soldiers and leaders of Headquarters and Headquarters Company and 178th MP Detachment, both apart of the 89th MP Brigade were honored on Nov. 4 for their military service by students of the House Creek Elementary School in Copperas Cove.

As rows of cafeteria tables filled with smiling children toting multi-colored lunch boxes and trays of cafeteria food, something seemed out of place. Sporadically seated throughout the maze of tables were Soldiers in their ACUs awaiting the arrival of the masses of children.

As the children took their seats, traded snacks and bartered for food with other classmates, they engaged in an awkward stare-down with the strange Soldiers at their tables. Finally, some brave children at each table simultaneously asked “Why are you here?” This led to a bombardment of questions from inquisitive students throughout the school.

Immediately following the first volley of questions, warmth passed over the cafeteria and kids began laughing and interacting with the members of HHC and 178th MP Detachment. Some played rock, paper, scissors with Cpt. John Drew, HHC commander, while other students engaged in complex discussions about photography with Spc. Candace Le HHC, brigade public affairs specialist, each enjoying the company of their new found friends.

Throughout the Military Appreciation Day luncheon, students exchanged stories about their families with Cpt. Robert Tarr 178th commander, 2nd Lt. Crystal

Madden, Sgt. 1st Class Huey, and Sgt. Plantenga.While the students seemed to gain a perspective

and increased knowledge about Soldiering, each of the Soldiers and leaders who attended left with a respect for the tenacious minds of the students and the manner in which they demonstrated their discipline. Like the military, they are awarded privileges, such as recess. Recess is earned by the orderly and cooperative conduct of the students during lunch and is indicated in a simple, but effective manner. On each table, three colored cups (green, yellow and red) were strategically stacked to remind the children that their recess privilege was dependent on their conduct. Several students commented that they had to keep the green cup on top and it was evident that this was an important goal for each of the kids. At the end of the luncheon, every table maintained the green cup on top despite the distraction and imposition the students were exposed to during their short lunch period.

The kinship fostered during this event tugged at the heartstrings of everyone involved. The Soldiers set an example, not of combat tactics or warrior skills, but of character, compassion, and leadership. The Soldiers presence among the sea of children alone is a reverberation of the strength our nation, which begins with our children. As the students quietly filed out of the cafeteria, group after group, small hands sharply raised, gently touching their foreheads in a salute to their new friends, the Soldiers of the Griffin Brigade.

HHC, 178th MP Det. have lunch with House Creek KidsStory by 1st Sgt. Corey Fairchild178th MP Det. First SergeantCpt. John Drew does a special handshake with a student before departing the lunch November 4, 2011.

COPPERAS COVE, Texas – It was just another Friday before another weekend for most of the students at House Creek Elementary School in Copperas Cove. The children were either too young or not even born when the September 11 attacks occurred ten years ago. History books already tell the tale of the brave men and women who charged into the burning, cascading buildings to save those who they promised to protect. This integral day in our nation’s history will forever be learned through stories. In light of that, military policemen from the 178th Mili-tary Police Detachment and Headquarters and Headquarters Company, both under the 89th MP Brigade, came to the school that morning to read stories related to the first re-sponders and answer questions the children may have about the subject. “We want the students to develop an appreciation for what the first responders did,” said school principal Larea Gamble. “Instead of just reading about (9/11), interaction will give them a better meaning and a concrete connection to it.” One MP who is beginning to work with the schools on Fort Hood, took a personal interest in the volunteer oppor-tunity. “I wanted to help them understand that when something

bad happens there are people they can count on, people to help them,” said Spc. Mathew Carlson, 178th MP Det. school based community policeman, who will be talking to students through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program. “Every age group had different questions. There was a lot of diversity of knowledge about 9/11,” Carlson said. “Some knew a lot when others had never heard of it.”Carlson noticed some of the children knew of the devasta-tion all too well.“Some of these kids, even out here in Copperas Cove, have been directly affected by 9/11,” he said. “Even as young as they are, they know about the tragedy that happened ten years ago.”Like walking examples of patriotism, the MPs roamed the halls of the school, offering stories of heroes like the first responders and a caring ear to questions and comments that followed such as, “Are you working with my mommy in Iraq?” and “My dad is in Ghanistan.” “Your presence is comforting, especially to those who have deployed moms and dads,” Gamble said to the MPs. “It’s good to let them know that the sacrifices they are making while their parents are gone are for a good cause.”In their single file lines, the children would smile and speak to the Soldiers as they passed by. For some, the Soldiers were a reminder of parents far away. For others they were just tall people all dressed the same. But that day, they were all seen as a piece of history class come to life.

MPs bring history class to life by reading to studentsPhotos and story by Spc. Candace Le 89th MP Bde. Public Affairs

A young girl points at colorful fire hydrants in the book Spc. Christopher Selfridge, 178th MP Det., 89th MP Bde. school based community policeman, is reading to the class in honor of the September 11 first responders at House Creek Elementary School in Copperas Cove Sept. 9.

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FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. – Close to 100 of the best Soldiers from throughout the Army’s military police community battled intense rain, high winds, heat, bugs, fatigue and each other to determine the best three-person team during the MP Warfighter Competition Sept. 18 through 21.This year’s winners represented the 978th Military Police Company and 93rd Military Police Bat-talion from Fort Bliss. The focus of the competition was to bring the top military police forces within the active-duty, Reserve and National Guard ranks to determine the “best of the best,” according to the competition’s noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Sgt. 1st Class Shon Dodson. Dodson outlined the four-day event as a series of mental, physical, technical and, at times, gut-wrenching challenges that took the Soldiers to the edge. “Warfighter began early Sunday morning with a 50-ques-tion written exam that covered military police history and general MP knowledge,” explained Dodson. “Without much of a break, the teams moved on to a physical en-durance test that included push-ups, alternating pull-ups, ankle-lock, pull-ups and ended with an unknown distance

Bliss team wins MP Warfighter Competitionrun with weighted ammo cans. The first day ended with a night land-navigation course.” Dodson said the competition stretched into its second day with marching, warrior tasks, battle drills, an active-shooter scenario and a double-elimination combatives contest. As the competition stretched into its third day, the Soldiers rappelled, tested their marksmanship skills and faced both rain and heat on long ruck marches between events. The final event took the MPs on a 15-mile road march. This year’s winners were from the 93rd MP Battalion at Fort Bliss and were first to cross the finish line following the endurance march. The team of Sgt. Dennis Jones, Spc. James Bagby and Spc. Milton Tees also finished with the highest score in the written exam and placed second in the combatives tournament. “This feels good because it shows that all of our hard work and training paid off,” said Jones, who competed in the competition last year. “This is something we can bring back to our unit to educate and motivate all of our Sol-diers.”“This competition is also about esprit de corps,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Kirkland, the MP regimen-tal command sergeant major. “It is an opportunity for the team leaders, sponsors, command and competitors to come together.”

By S.L. Standifird,Hometown News Feature Team

The winning team, Spc. James Bagby, Sgt. Dennis Jones and Spc. Christopher Tees take the lead during the Endurance March, the final event. Photo by Melissa Buckley

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Bliss MPs stake claim at local schoolStory by Ms Marcie Wright (IMCOM)

EL PASO, Texas - The 93rd MP Battalion unveiled the sign with their unit ensignia now staked into the ground at Travis Elementary School in central El Paso at a dedication ceremony Oct. 19. “The sign is a visual sign of the battalion’s partnership with Travis [Elementary],” said Lt. Col. Vernon Lightner, battalion commander. Connecting with the surrounding community through support in education is one of 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding General Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pit-tard’s intents for the installation. The Partners in Education program has been active at Fort Bliss for more than 22 years. The goal is to integrate Soldiers into the community by supporting schools and private sector programs. Through the program, Soldiers become tangible assets providing mentorship, guidance and tutoring services, planning and sponsoring events, and teaching leadership skills. The battalion and the school have been partners for more than three years and Lightner said he wanted to “make it official. This is a relationship that started a few years ago, and we hope to ensure it stays and thrives as long as there is a Travis Elementary and a 93rd MP Battalion.” During the ceremony, four students were selected to share thoughts about the military and the Partners In Edu-cation program. One mentioned the war and how sad it is

when Soldiers do not return to their families, “because they died in the fight.” Another talked about how some Sol-diers are not able to make it to their child’s sporting events because of working long days and weekends. The children said they appreciate the MPs for standing in the gap when their parents are not available. Lightner recognized that this partnership is not only about what the Soldiers do for the children, but how volun-teering with the children affects the Soldiers as well. “You do so much for us,” said Lightner. “When a Soldier … comes to Travis, the Soldier brings certain character-istics to share with the children. Physical fitness, integ-rity, courage -- all these values are in the hearts of these children. What our Soldiers do is provide a way to let the children realize that these values are within them too. “The classrooms provide our Soldiers with tangible results in the form of smiling faces,” continued Lightner. “Students enrich the lives of Soldiers.” The principal expressed her gratitude and confidence in the 93rd MPs by incorporating them in everything they do. “It is with great pleasure that Travis has formed a united partnership with the 93rd MP Battalion,” said Sonia Teran, school principal. “There isn’t one event, program, function or celebration that our school plans without our partners.” “Our students benefit from your presence daily,” said Teran.

Members of the 93rd Military Police Battalion stand among students and staff of Travis Elementary School beneath the sign that shows the partnership between the school and the battalion at the sign dedication ceremony held at the central El Paso school Oct. 19.

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89th serves Griffin family on Turkey DayStory and Photos by Specialist Candace Le89th MP Brigade Public Affairs

FORT HOOD, Texas - Soldiers, friends and family mem-bers from the 89th MP Brigade, Directorate of Emergency Services and 11th MP Battalion (Criminal Investigations Division) enjoyed a Thanksgiving inspired feast Nov. 19 at the Phantom Warrior Center. To ensure everyong got a big hearty meal, the din-ner times were set to allow MPs going on and coming off duty to eat. As is tradition with most holiday dinners, Soldiers were served the turkey, ham, stuffing, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and more by senior members of their units. This was a great time for the brigade’s military Family to get closer to their Soldier’s Family at home.

(above) A young girl smiles when asked if she would like to add a helping of macaroni and cheese to her growing plate at the 89th MP Bde. Thanksgiving Day dinner. (below) !st Sgt. Reeves says hello to one of his Soldier’s new born children at the dinner. Not only did these Soldiers get to spend the holiday with their actual Family, but also with their military Family as well.

(above) Soldiers on post clean up detail take a break and enjoy the feast at the Phantom Warrior Center. (below) An MP about to take shift fills up before going on duty. He is being served by senior members of his unit, the 178th MP Det.

Members of the Copperas Cove HEB enjoy a meal with the brigade as invited guests. They are currently and continue to support the 89th.

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MPs take bite out of crime through safety educationBy Capt. Jessica Rovero, 89th MP Bde. Public Affairs

COPPERAS COVE, Texas - The children’s voices echoed off the cafeteria walls of House Creek Elementary School as they filled in and found their seats. The noise increased as more students filled the room. Each teacher raised one arm in the air, and one by one little arms began doing the same. The voices dropped off to silence. “Good morning boys and girls,” Dayna Mellberg, House Creek Elementary School librarian, said to the students. “This morning we have a special presentation for our Safety Day. Some of the Soldiers of the 178th Military Po-lice Detachment, our adopted unit, have come to give you a class about safety.” This was the first of two groups that would receive safety classes from the 178th MP Det., 89th Military Police Brigade on Oct. 12, in preparation for the upcoming holi-day. “I wanted to have a safety day because of the holiday coming up, the kids will be out and about,” Mellberg said. “We also have a lot of walkers and bikers at House Creek and this is a new group, so it’s good information for them to have,” Mellberg added. “I asked our adopted unit to come give the classes because the kids like listening to the guys in the military. They motivate the kids.” Sergeant Robert McCarthy, bike patrol officer, stepped to the center of the stage. He smiled at the attentive faces as he introduced his topic. “Good morning boys and girls. Today I’m going to talk to you about bike safety. But first let me introduce my spe-cial guest, McGruff the Crime Dog,” McCarthy said. Specialist Christopher Selfridge, crime prevention offi-cer, left the cover of the black stage curtains and came cen-ter stage dressed as McGruff. He waved his paws out to the children and came to stand near McCarthy. As the children waved back, McCarthy started talking about bicycle safety. McCarthy covered the ABCs of bicycle safety: air, brakes, chain. He explained ways of checking to make sure a bicycle is safe to ride, types of safety equipment and good route practices. The children eagerly raised their hands to answer questions and tell their bicycle stories. For those children that answered questions, McGruff came around and gave them some take-aways: reflective vests and a Frisbee prize package. This only encouraged further participation from the children. “I like being McGruff,” Selfridge said. “I like seeing all the kids wave at me and having their full attention.” It was definitely apparent that the large dog provided a focus for the children and promoted interaction among the young group and the instructor.

McCarthy then introduced the next guest speaker, Spc. Ruben Rodriguez, crime prevention officer. “Today I will be speaking about Stranger Danger,” Rodriguez said. “Has anyone ever had a class on this topic before?” This was Rodriguez’s first time delivering a class to young children. He had them help him define a stranger, explained the differences between good and bad strangers and what to do if a stranger tried to grab them. Like the first topic, the children were eager to share. When the class was finished and the students were released Rodriguez breathed a sigh of relief. One group down, one more to go. “It’s harder trying to explain things to kids,” Rodriguez said of his first class. “You have to break it down for them. They have less attention span and you have to get more in their mindset so they can understand what you’re saying. I look forward to getting better at it.” When the classes were complete, the Soldiers reconsoli-dated and discussed how they thought the classes went. “It was exciting to see the kids excited about safety,” Sgt William Plantenga, community policing noncommissioned officer-in-charge said. “You know they’re listening if they’re excited about safety, it’s not a very exciting topic.” For these MPs, coming out and giving classes like these is an important part of supporting their community.

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A House Creek Elementary School student gives crime dog McGruff, played by Spc. Christopher Selfridge, crime prevention officer, a high five after receiving a Frisbee pack on Oct. 12 at the end of the safety classes conducted by the 178th MP Det. Soldiers.

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FORT HOOD, Texas- The command teams of the 89th MP Brigade and 720th MP Battalion assembled them-selves in the Gauntlet Classroom for breakfast at 8 a.m. on November 18. They patiently waited for the guest of honor, Lt. Gen. Donald Campbell Jr., commanding general of III Corps and Fort Hood.As the commander of a corps headquartered at the largest Army installation in the United States supporting a high op-erational tempo, with all the duties and responsibilities that comes with it, Campbell took some of his precious time to spend it with the officers and senior noncommissioned of-ficers of the 89th.The breakfast began in fellowship with one another as the group fed their bodies, and ended with thoughtful guidance from the seasoned guest.There were no great secrets shared and, for many people, what was discussed would seem to be common sense. The concepts, however simple, were thoughtful and meant to be shared. Campbell opened by placing high importance on under-standing our seniors’ intent and carrying out orders to reflect as such. “How did I get where I am today? Know your boss,” Campbell said, “Know what your boss wants. You can get pretty far when you listen to your boss.”There are times to challenge and suggest, but in the end, as long as it is moral and ethical, follow instructions, Camp-bell added.One of the ways to complete taskings received is by band-ing together, using each Soldier’s skill towards the better-ment of the organization. “The fundamental philosophy of success is teamwork,” he said. “I would encourage you to work towards being a team player. There’s nothing better, in my opinion, than a strong team.”No team could survive without a dedicated leader. Leaders are charged with the tasks of developing their subordinates, and providing appropriate training and guidance to grow

and develop the Army’s future leaders. “As a leader, I would ask you to take a step back and look at your strengths and weaknesses,” Campbell said. “Work on your own leadership development. Ask yourself, ‘What can you do to be a better leader? What can you do to de-velop your Soldiers to make them better?’”Leaders teach subordinates how to find solutions, not what the solution is. “Leaders should be training Soldiers to be problem solvers and thinkers,” Campbell said. “How a leader responds to challenges is important.”By upholding the standard leaders take care of their Sol-diers in addition to teaching them the Army way. “We have to do a better job of holding Soldiers account-able,” Campbell said, “I don’t care if the Solider is a three star general or a private first class. The standard is the standard.”“Set the bar high with standards and discipline. Your Sol-diers will meet it or you will hold them accountable.”Taking the initiative to fix issues before they become a problem is leadership. “Know your organization, track non-deployables, and know where you stand on your deployment status,” he said. “This isn’t ‘garrison leadership,’ it’s leadership.”Supporting the local communities is also an important task for leaders in the military.“In this profession there is an expectation that we get out in front of people and talk to them,” he said. “It’s about outreach, about showing what that less than one percent of the population does for those who are not in the military. If we don’t get out into the community and tell our story we’ll lose our retirement benefits.” Most importantly though is investing time in your Family while you can.“Take care of your families,” he said. “The Army is not my top priority, my family is. If the army is your top priority, I think you’re wrong. I’d like to finish my career with the family I started with.”Campbell closed by thanking those in attendance for their constant strides of improving themselves and their military. “I know how hard you work every day and I appreciate it,” he said. “Do right by your Soldiers and families. Raise the bar every day. Thanks for your leadership.”Every Soldier looks for guidance throughout a military career, seeking mentorship from those that have experience: team leaders, squad leaders, first sergeants, commanders. The thoughts and guidance of those mentors become inter-nalized, incorporated in the way they think and act. These select few had the honor of receiving guidance from above. For anyone who has ever wondered how someone gets to be the guy at the top, this group was able to hear it straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.

Photos and story by Capt. Jessica Rovero89th MP Bde. Public Affairs

Guidance from above

Leaders from the 89th MP Bde listen as Lt. Gen. Don-ald Campbell Jr., III Corps and Ft. Hood commanding general, gives them words of wisdom about leadership on at the 720th MP Bn. Class-room Novem-ber 18, 2011.

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The 411th MP Company, 720th MP Battalion, 89th MP Brigade deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan in support of Operation Endur-ing Freedom in May earlier this year and are slated to return during the summer of 2011. During the deployment they have trained and worked with Af-ghan National Police officers pulling security and conducting traffic control.