STAND PROUD. STAND UNITED. STAND ARMY STRONG

The Official Publication of Harrisburg Recruiting BattalionAUG/SEPT 2009 Vol 1, Issue 1

Mission Accomplished!2009

scaar - Not Just All Training

On the Cover

CONTENTS AUG/SEPT 2009 Vol 1, Issue 1

Departments3 LEADERSHIP CORNER

4 BATTALION NEWS

6 COLD STEEL FAMILY

7 EDUCATION

8 COMPANY CORNER

10 ARMY NEWS

Harrisburg Battalion Mission With integrity and selfless service, the Harrisburg Recruiting

Battalion provides strength to the Army, cares for the Soldiers, civilians, and families and develops community support for the

military.

Harrisburg Battalion VisionHarrisburg Battalion is committed to deliver excellence from

recruiting with integrity and providing quality service members as the strength of our all-volunteer Army. We strive to consistently

achieve mission and inspire Americans to proudly serve within the profession of arms in support of their Nation.

CommanderLt. Col. Stephen B. Lockridge

Command Sgt. MajorCommand Sgt. Maj.

Reginald K. Washington

Chief of Advertising & Public Affairs

Staci Cretu

Public Affairs Specialists,Associate Editors

Sonya SanockiBill Irwin

Administrative Assistant,Layout Design

Angela D. Walter

The Battalion Newsletter is authorized by AR360-1 for members of the U.S. Army.

Contents of this publication are not neces-sarily the official views, or endorsement by the U.S. Government, Department of

Defense, Department of the Army, or the U.S. Army Recruiting Command.

The Newsletter is published bi-monthly by the Advertising and Public Affairs (A&PA)

Office, U.S. Recruiting Battalion - Harrisburg.

Please mail or e-mai submissions and letters to:

A&PA U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion - Harrisburg,

54 M Ave., Suite 11New Cumberland, PA 17070

COMM: (717) 770-6721FAX: (717) 770-2707

E-mail: ebn-apa@usarec.army.mil

The Newsletter is currently distributed electronically and will be sent to everyone

on the battalion distribution list and to those who request a copy.

Deadline submissions for Oct/Nov. edition is Nov 15.

2 •

more Benefits, more money, and more opportunity to attend the College of your ChoiCe

7

On the cover

Not Just All Training - Fun at PNc Park

Greensburg Company 1st Sgt. Aaron Friday welcomed some much needed rest and entertainment during the team building exercise at the Station Commanders After Action Review (SCAAR) in July. The station com-manders enjoyed the stadium food while the Pitts-burgh Pirates out played and won against the Wash-ington Nationals.

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1st Sgt. Friday enjoying a Pittsburgh Pirates game

CONTENTS AUG/SEPT 2009 Vol 1, Issue 1

AUG/SEPT 2009 • 3

LEADERSHIP CORNER

Lt. Col. Stephen B. LockridgeBattalion Commander

Command Sgt. Maj. Reginald K. WashingtonBattalion Command Sgt. Major

SUICIDE PREVENTIONinter

Much has occurred since I assumed com-mand less than four months ago. Lead-

ership changed with either a commander or first sergeant in every company; however, we remained focused on recruiting operations to over achieve our annual Regular Army mis-sion and nearly make our Army Reserve mis-sion. Furthermore, our reputation of deliver-ing quality men and women within our ranks while recruiting with integrity has never been better.

As we continue to meet the challenges dur-ing the upcoming months, remain focused on these keys to future success. First, it all begins and ends with living the Army Values and ad-hering to standards. We must remain account-able to all standards and have the discipline to enforce them, even in the absence of leader-ship. Secondly, as the landscape of recruiting transforms, teamwork in mission accomplish-ment and mission-focused training becomes paramount. We must find innovative ways

to improve recruiting TTPs; break away from the “individualism” of our business; and take personal responsibility to assist your peers with becoming better at their craft. Finally, taking care of our people and families makes us collectively stronger; therefore, ensuring quality of life is as important as the annual re-cruiting mission. It is imperative that we seek and maintain balance between mission ac-complishment and well-being. Most impor-tantly, we must continue to communicate and enforce standards when executing recruiting mission as well as quality of life initiatives, such as Family Time and Work Hour Policy. As leaders of Soldiers and families, accept noth-ing less than the standard, and recruit for the strength of our Army with pride, passion, and professionalism.

It is an honor to have been selected to serve as the commander of such an outstand-ing organization, rich in history and complete with professional officers, non-commissioned

officers, and civilians. I look forward to work-ing with each of you as we face new challeng-es and experience more achievements in the near future.

Thanks for all you do! Cold Steel!!!

Steel 6

GreetiNGs

STeel BATTAlioN

As we close the “Year of the NCO” with another successful campaign of recruit-

ing, I’d like to embark on a stigma of seeking health assistance…Suicide intervention dur-ing Suicide Prevention Month.

I recently completed a Periodic Health As-sessment, which includes an online section of “Behavioral Health” questions.

As a senior noncommissioned officer with more than 25 years in the Army, I pondered on questions, such as feelings of hopelessness; feeling bad about yourself; and troubles of falling asleep or staying asleep. I soon realized the heading stated “over the last two weeks.” How often have you been bothered by any of the following problems? With that limitation, my answer of “not at all” applied, but not for six months or one year or more for a majority of the questions.

I, as well as many of you, could probably answer “nearly every day,” on many of these questions, but would we be classified as hav-ing behavioral health issues? Ah, that’s were the stigma festers deep in the public and personal perception of behavioral health. Al-though, I’ve never contemplated the act of

suicide, what would have been the catalyst for me to have entertained the thought?

The crucial elements in suicide intervention is leader involvement and the “buddy system.” The health of our Soldiers is in line with one of an NCO’s two basic responsibilities, “welfare of my Soldiers.” “Soldiers fall through the cracks during transition,” was listed as a theme during a Senior Review Group. We must ensure that our Soldiers aren’t aggressively integrated and sponsored in our unit, which will offset this trend.

The stigma of seeking help and the estab-lishment of social support in a new location are common barriers in the Army that are common to the recruiting environment. Also noted in this SRG was “personal problems have been identified, and the impact minimized.” Again, when we learn of a problem and think it doesn’t concern you; think again…we are all affected!

Lastly, as I ponder on the “eve of the new fiscal year,” I realize the holidays will challenge all levels of leadership. We must become more diligent in using and referring our Soldiers to the available suicide intervention resources.

The issued A.C.E GTA cards are an excellent re-minder and guide, along with adhering to the battalion’s Buddy Team requirement. Another excellent resource is Military OneSource, the battalion Soldier and Family Assistance Office or the chaplain.

The upcoming fiscal year will continue to stimulate ongoing initiatives fostering leader development, improved quality of life for Sol-diers, civilians, and family members…

COLD STEEL!

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BATTALION NeWSSIGNIFICANT EVENTS

October1 Jim Thorpe Change of Command

2 Army Rivalry Tour at Reading HS – 3V

3 Community Covenant Signing at

Kutztown University – 3R

3 African American Pride Parade – 1E5

4 Army 10-miler in Washington DC

9-13 Hempfield Football Army Night – 3A

9 New Recruiter Board

12 Columbus Day

15 All American Bowl – Hughesville High School – 7V

16 All American Bowl – Central Dauphin High School – 3D

16-19 Shippensburg University Homecoming - 2B

20 All American Bowl Tour Stop– New

Oxford High School – 2M

23-26 Greensburg Catholic 50th Anniversary and Homecoming Football

26-30 ICI - Clarion Company

30-Nov. 2 Military Appreciation at Indiana University – 1G

November6 Newcomers Orientation

6-9 Greater Greensburg Joint Veteran’s Council – 1K

6-14 Mobile Drill SGT touring - 1E5

8 Harrisburg Marathon – 1E2

10-13 Interactive Semi touring - 1E3

11 Veterans’ Day

13 New Recruiter Board

13 All American Bowl Tour Stop– Cedar Cliff High School - 2F

16-20 ICI - Harrisburgh Company

26 Thanksgiving

December1 All American Bowl Tour Stop– Penn Hills High School – 5G

4 All American Bowl Tour Stop – Canon Mcmil lian High School – 5W

4 New Recruiter Board

7-11 ICI - Jim Thorpe Company

17-20 ATC

12-19 Hanukkah

25 Christmas

Team,

Mission Accomplished!The hard-work, sacrifices, and dedication of our Soldiers, civil-

ians, and contractors have shown this fiscal year is a testament to the great team we have at the U.S. Army Recruiting Command. I am so proud of you and proud to be a part of one of the Army’s most proficient teams!

Along the way, we faced challenges, we faced adversity, and we faced changes in our goals; but what we didn’t face was a reluctance to do what USAREC does best, succeed! It brings me great pleasure to say we succeeded as a team while ensuring the quality of life of our Soldiers and civilians, and we did it all while upholding our stan-dards.

Each of you should be proud of yourself for what you have achieved on behalf of our Army this year. The year will close out on Sept. 30, but as of a few moments ago we achieved over 70,000 and 23,500 young men and women in the Regular Army and Army Reserve, respectively.

We will close out the AMEDD, chaplain, special operations, and warrant missions next week with success across the board. I want to also note the great success of your efforts in filling Officer Candidate School for the RA and AR in record numbers. Our Army is going to benefit for years to come from the outstanding quality of the recruits you brought into our Army.

Your hard work has not gone unnoticed. To celebrate and reward you for our 2009 accomplishments, I have cancelled processing on Oct. 24 and declared Oct. 23 a training holiday. Enjoy this added time off; you deserve it!

I wanted to be the first to tell you the good news as I thought it was important for you to know that once again, you have come through for our Army and our nation. You will receive more informa-tion about this great news in the near future.

Congrulations team USAREC!

HOOAH! ARMY STRONG!MG Don CampbellCG, USAREC

Story and photoby Bill IrwinPublic Affairs Specialist

Carlisle Company utilized a recent Strength In Action Zone tour to launch the Central Pa. Officership program.

Using the SIAZ as a backdrop at the Army Heritage and Educa-tion Center in Carlisle Pa., Maj. Bill Hammac, Carlisle Company com-mander with leadership from Dickinson College ROTC spoke of their Army path stories. On hand were Lt. Col. Adrienne Eckstein, professor of Military Science at the college and Maj. Craig Walker, recruiting op-erations officer.

Each had a different story to tell, Hammac as prior enlisted, Eck-stein as a West Point graduate and Walker as ROTC.

Their stories were presented to media from local radio, television and print and produced coverage in eight counties.

OffiCership Program KiCk off

BATTALION NeWS

TOP

AUG/SEPT 2009 • 5

BATTALION NeWS

Q: Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Southern York County, Red Lion to be exact, although I would like to think I’m from Md. I’m not a country girl one bit!

Q: What’s your background? How did you end up getting into Army advertising and public affairs?

After graduating from Penn State University with an Associates in business and a Bachelor’s in marketing/management, I began working with an advertising agency where I quickly fell in love with the advertising concept and convincing my clients on the benefits of advertising. After about 1.5 years, I accepted a position with Bath Fitter where I ran the Marketing and Events Department. I had a department of six with oversight of 17 event

TOP USAR RECRUITERStaff Sgt. Seth Moore

TOP OPSCCranberry RS

TOP CIVILIAN STAFFDevin Howard

TOP GUIDANCE COUNSELORJohn M. Copeland

Joseph H. Albrecht III

TOP COMPANYClarion

COMMANDER’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Sgt. 1st Class Justin Floridia

TOP RA RECRUITERSgt. 1st Class Rhett D. Massey

TOP LPSCDusois RS

TOP SECTIONIMO

LEADERSHIP AWARDSgt. 1st Class Todd D. Reeder

SPECIAL MISSION COMPANYGreensburg

COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR’S SPECIAL RECOGNITIONSgt. 1st Class Eric Miller

3rd QUARTER AWARDS

managers. I never thought I’d love a sales organization as much as what I did but being in the remodeling industry was not going to get me any where, especially with the economy. When I decided I needed to start looking I just happened to apply for a position with the Army at Carlisle Barracks as marketing manager for the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Directorate.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment working with the U.S. Army?

While working at Carlisle Barracks, I built the sponsorship program from the ground up, soliciting over $70,000 in one year. The second was producing and publishing the MWR magazine, I never thought I could or would ever be a publisher of a 22 page magazine.

Staci CretuA&PA Chief

By Staci Cretu, Chief, A&PA

As APA/ESS Assistant, this position is not just a “job” for Angela as it’s a continued effort to serve her country. She not only served in the US Army Reserves but also on Active Duty where she was Honorably Discharged due to health concerns. Angela takes great pride in her country as well as her work and ca-reer. She is constantly looking to improve herself as well as her specific responsibilities in her professional development and is committed to serving as a civil-ian employee for the US Army. Her dedication to the support the Army, the USAREC and A&PA missions and her peers is more than enough reason to receive an award such as this.

Angela will compete against selected employees from other brigades for overall USAREC Outstanding Civilian Employee of the Year. The command wide winners and runners up will receive a savings bond and a plaque, and be formally honored during the ALTC.

Harrisburg A&PA, Angela Walter selected for 1st Recruiting Brigade

USAREC Outstanding Civilian Employee of the Year FY09

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By Sonya SanockiPublic Affairs Specialist

“Thank you for this exceptional introduction to the U.S. Army,” Adrian Roth wrote in a letter addressed to Lt. Col. Stephen Lock-

ridge, battalion commander.Roth, of Harrisburg, contacted the Mechanicsburg Recruiting Sta-

tion in February expressing an interest in Officer Candidate School.He was introduced to Staff Sgt. Jon Blose who worked with Roth to

put together his OCS packet. According to Blose, submitting an OCS packet requires a little bit more work because there is a lot more pa-perwork. Roth was required to write a letter stating why he wants to attend OCS. He also had to obtain high school and college transcripts along with various personal documents and letters of recommenda-tion. Blose spent nearly four months working with Roth collecting the necessary information to submit a couple of waivers. Blose was required to obtain an age waiver since Roth was over 30 years of age.

According to Roth, Blose was available whenever he was needed. During the four-month application process, Blose was available when-ever he was needed by Roth and was quick to return his calls.

“I think Staff Sergeant Blose set an excellent living example ofArmy values and I greatly anticipate the honor of serving alongside Soldiers with similar qualities as I prepare to leave for basic training on September 9,” Roth stated.

Lasting ImpressionsCommitment to our reCruits

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Story and photo by Staci Cretu, Chief, A&PA

Even though the summer is almost over, that does not mean that there was not still time for fun, family-filled events at the Harrisburg Recruiting Battalion.

August 14th marked the Harrisburg Recruiting Battalion’s annual Organizational Day, complete with fun geared towards Soldiers, civilians and their families. The day long event was held at Delgrosso’s Amusement Park in Tipton, Pa.

The day came to an end with some flag football injuries, a lot of tired people from playing on all of the rides and tug-of-war. The best part about the day was the end when the battalion commander and command sergeant major were able to recognize the achievements of the day’s activities as well as the quarterly award winners amongst their peers and families.

HAVING FUN WITH THE BATTALION FAMILYORGANIZATIONAL DAY

By Randy ReadshawSoldier & Family Assistance Program Manager

Have you heard of the Army Family Team Building Program? Perhaps you are more familiar with it in acronym form,

AFTB? AFTB is an educational program designed to foster strength, resilience, and self-reliance in Army families. So what you may say; what’s in it for me as an Army recruiter?

Attendees at the recent Brigade level AFTB Instructor training in Syracuse, N.Y. discovered, that AFTB may be a useful tool in Future Soldier (FS) training and retention; COI development and recruitment; and also a means to seal the deal with influencers who may have some hesitancy allowing their family members to enlist. Let’s start by looking at the curriculum of AFTB and how it can fulfill each role.

The AFTB curriculum offers a range of classes divided into three levels. Level 1 is often referred to as “Army 101”. This is the level from which you could pull most of your FS training. Military Terms, Acronyms, Customs, and Courtesies; Chain of Command and Chain of Concern; Benefits, Entitlements, and Compensation; Family and Military Expectations; Basic Problem Solving; and Impact of the Mission on Family Life are just a sampling of the classes from this level. This is for students with little or no military experience or Soldiers with less than five years of service.

Level 2 courses are targeted toward emerging leaders, or those with between five and ten years of service. A sampling of titles from this level includes: Enhancing Relationship Building; Intro to Effective Leadership; a number of classes to develop management skills including Communication, Conflict Management, Group Dynamics, and Understanding

ARMY FAMILY TEAM BUILDING a marketing tool

Needs; Intermediate Problem Solving; Adapting to Change; Stress Management; and Time Management. With these classes you begin to move from basic education to more personal and professional development. This can be a selling point to COIs interested in coaching and mentoring as well as family members concerned about the support network their loved ones will have once they enlist.

Level 3 offers training to enhance the professional growth and leadership development opportunities of family members, especially those who might assume leadership roles within the community and the unit. These are also effective for COIs who often are heavily involved in the community themselves. Because these are more advanced and in-depth studies, many Level 3 classes have prerequisite classes from Level 1 or 2. Some Level 3 classes are Leadership Skills; Leader Roles – Coaching, Mentoring, and Advising; Building a Cohesive Team; Problem Solving Techniques for Leaders; Understanding the Organization of the Total Army; and Political Issues and the Army.

So now that you know what AFTB is and how it can support your recruit, train, and develop mission as a Recruiter, how can you take advantage of what AFTB has to offer? There is no need to teach AFTB in it’s entirety. Classes and programs can be tailored to a specific purpose or audience. Brigade policy stipulates each company must have an AFTB instructor. Any one of these individuals, along with myself, are available to conduct these classes. AFTB Instructors in the battalion are Capt. Terry Redd and his wife Amy (1E1), Staff Sgt. Shawn Doland (1E2), Staff Sgt. Chrys’tale Wyatt (1E3), Sgt. Ray Bobian (1E4), and Staff Sgt. Stephanie Faucher (1E7). Find out more about AFTB from MyArmyOneSource.com. Follow the drop down menus under Family Programs and Services, then Family Programs, and click on Army Family Team Building. All three levels are available online.

army strong Families Make strong army recruiters!

A 24/7 Resource forMilitary Members, Spouses & Families

Call and Talk Anytime

Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Sullivan, station com-mander for the York Recruiting Station,

enjoying the day with his son at Delgrosso’s Amusement Park

POst-9/11 Gi BiLL

THE “ColD STeel” FAMILY

AUG/SEPT 2009 • 7

EDUCATION is key

POst-9/11 Gi BiLL

By Mark MazarellaEducation Services Specialist

By now you’ve heard a lot about the new GI Bill that went into effect Aug . 1. Even so, I continue to receive numerous questions about

some of the details, and understandably so, as this is a complex policy, especially as it applies to career Soldiers and their families. One re-cruiter recently commented to me: “I didn’t realize my son was eli-gible to receive a housing allowance while I was still on active duty!”

As with any new major policy, the rumors that preceded its offi-cial release have contributed to the confusion and misinformation. For these reasons, below I have listed FAQs that I’ve entertained from many of the battalion’s recruiters. I encourage you to share this infor-mation with your spouse, since transferability is a key added benefit that many Veterans and their associations have fought hard for years to have included.

I realize all questions you may encounter cannot be covered here. Also, as the program matures, Congress or DoD may make changes. For more information consult the official GI Bill Website at: http//www.gibill.va.gov or contact the Battalion ESS at 717-770-6318 or mark.mazarella@usarec.army.milThe Basics:

The Post 9/11 GI Bill, officially entitled The Veterans Educational As-sistance Act of 2008 (Chapter 33), offers the following benefits to Sol-diers/Veterans who meet eligibility requirements:

• Tuition and fees limited to the highest in-state undergraduate tuition for the state in which enrolled in school• Monthly living stipend paid at the rate of E-5 with dependents Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on the zip code of the school• Up to $1,000 per school year to pay for books and supplies• Up to $1,200 of tutorial assistance • Up to $2,000 for reimbursement of one licensing or certification test• An individual has up to 15 years after they complete their tour ofduty to use their benefits• Transferability of benefits to spouse or dependent children

MORE BENEFITS, MORE MONEY, AND MORE OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND THE COLLEGE OF YOUR CHOICE

www.gibill.va.gov

Q: I’ve been using the MGIB and only have a few months of entitlement remaining; can I use the Post 9-11 GI Bill?Once you use up all MGIB benefits you can get up to 12 months of benefits un-der the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Q: My Montgomery GI Bill benefits can pay for on-the-job training, ap-prenticeship training, correspon-dence courses, flight training, prepa-ratory courses, and national exams. If I convert from MGIB to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, can I use it for these things?Yes, but only if you convert from MGIB to the Post-9/11 GI Bill.Here’s what the Post-9/11 GI Bill funds:

o Attendance at an institution of higher learningo Only one certification exam/testo The Post 9/11 GI Bill does NOT pay for the following:

o On-the-job trainingo Apprenticeship trainingo Correspondence courseso Flight trainingo Prep courseso Multiple certification exams/tests, such as the bar exam for prospective lawyers

NOTE: Soldiers are eligible to get ben-efits for these things if they are eligible

for Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill), 1606 (MGIB-SELRES), or 1607 (Reserve Educa-tion Assistance Program) and who elect to use benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Q: I currently have the MGIB. Should I convert to the Post 9-11 GI Bill.If you are eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill and other GI Bill benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill you will be required to make an irrevocable choice of which benefit you wish to receive. There are other circumstances that would make sense not to convert. The following are some things to consider:

o In some locations the costs of col-lege and housing (which you would receive payment for under the Post-9/11 GI Bill) are less than the payment you would receive under the Mont-gomery GI Bill. o In some states veterans do not have to pay tuition at selected state col-leges. The Post-9/11 GI Bill may then pay only the housing benefit and the book stipend. (Since you have no tu-ition costs the Post-9/11 GI Bill will not pay the college any tuition.) Your pay-ments under other GI Bill programs such as the Active-Duty GI Bill may be higher in these cases. o Individuals eligible for a college fund under other GI Bill programs will continue to receive their college fund as before, unless they are attending classes at ½ time or less. o If you participated in the $600 buy-up under the Montgomery GI Bill or REAP you will not receive that addi-tional benefit under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. o Confused about which education

benefits to use? The VA has devel-oped a step-by-step guide to GI Bill Education Benefits. Visit www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/step-by-step.htm to determine what program is right for you.

Q: I understand that the maximum al-lowance for tuition and fees under the Post 9-11 GI Bill was established based on the highest costing in-state, under-graduate, public tuition for each indi-vidual state. How much is this amount in PA?The highest costing public institution in PA is Penn State University. The maxi-mum allowance in PA for school year 2009-2010 is $886 per credit hour and $6,391 in fees per term.

Q: What family members are eligible to receive my Post 9-11 GI Bill benefits?An individual approved to transfer an en-titlement to educational assistance under this section may transfer the individual’s entitlement to:

o The individual’s spouseo One or more of the individual’s childreno Any combination of spouse and child

Q: How do I apply for transfer of my Post 9-11 GI Bill benefits to my eligible dependents?All applications will be submitted through the Transferability of Educational Benefits (TEB) website, located at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/TEB/

Q: I understand that the Post 9-11 GI Bill housing allowance is based on the rate for E-5 with dependents for the zip code where the school is located. Where can I find out how much the

housing allowance is for different ar-eas of the state/country?Go to http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/perdiem/bah.html and enter the zip code. The rates in PA range from about $805 – $1,768/mo.

Q: Do on-line courses qualify for the housing allowance? Only if the individual is enrolled more than half time (usually 7 credits) is oth-erwise eligible and is taking at least one course on campus (i.e. classroom-based).

Q3: I understand that Future Soldiers have the choice of enrolling in the MGIB or Post 9-11 GI Bill. How should I advise my FS?

o For Regular Army Soldiers who ac-cepted the Student Loan Repayment Program incentive when they enlist-ed, the first three years of their active duty don’t count toward Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility. But active duty after those first three years does count.o Soldiers unsure of their education-al goals should consider first signing up for the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) program. It offers great advantages and down the road you can convert to the Post 9/11 GI Bill.o There are no Army College Fund “kickers” with the Post 9/11 GI Bill, but kickers may be available, for cer-tain military jobs, for Soldiers who sign up for the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB).o MGIB Army College Fund “kickers” do convert should you switch from the MGIB to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and you’ll get kicker payments plus Post 9/11 GI Bill money.

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Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Lockridge, battalion commander, left, passes the Harrisburg Company guidon to Capt. Eric Sutton, in a Change of Command ceremony, Aug. 18. A native of Colquitt, Ga., Sutton’s pre-vious assignment was with the 1st Sustainment Brigade, Fort Riley, Kan. Sutton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in management from Albany State University. He has 16 years of active duty service.

Capt. Jason Shick, Clarion Company commander, may be new to the challenges that recruiting offers but he is not new to a challenge. Shick, a graduate of Virginia Tech, holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and has served some of his four years in the Army with the 2/69 Armor Battalion. Shick’s awards and decora-tions include the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

This Just in...New Company Commanders

Harrisburg Company Change of Command

Clarion Company Commander

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Barry Wagner, Pittsburgh MEPS to Master Sergeant. Carlisle Company Commander Bill Hammac and Jim Thorpe Company Commander Mike McMaster promoted to Major.

Promotions

The Harrisburg Recruiting Company hosted a Future Soldier mega function Sep 12, at the Defense Distribution Center at New Cumberland. FSs from all stations partici-pated in the pre Basic Training Army Physical Fitness Test, and ended the event with food and drinks. Despite drizzling showers, recruiters of the Harrisburg Company were highly motivated and that enthusiasm was passed on to the FSs. One FS commented on his excitement to participate again in drill and ceremony thanks to Staff Sgt. Ormond Wilson’s motivation. Top FS performers included: best female push-up and sit-up, Vanessa Palacios; run, Janessa King; and

HARRISBURG COMPANY MEGA FUNCTIONBy Capt. Eric D. SuttonCommanderHarrisburg Company

overall, Palacios. Best male push-up, Dietrich Gehron; sit-up, David Karaba-ich; run and overall Jason Donbach. Great event for the recruiters and FSs of the Harrisburg Company.

Taking Over the Island at Pottsville’s RiverfestBy Bill Irwin, Public Affairs Specialist

What does a small community do in the middle of August for com-munity fun? If it’s Pottsville, they take over the island in the river and hold Riverfest. For the third year in a row the Pottsville Recruiting Sta-tion was asked to participate, noteably it is the only service that has been asked.

“We are pleased that the community keeps asking us to partici-pate,” said Staff Sgt. David McCray, the station’s commander, “We re-ally try to create an atmosphere in the community that makes us ap-proachable, and this isn’t the only event we’re asked to either.”

According to festival officials, the celebration continues to grow each year attracting families from several surrounding communities.

“This year in addition to the battalion assets we signed out we asked the local Reserve unit, the 365th Engineers to set up some of their vehicles. Between their massive vehicles and our rockwall we could be seen from any spot on the island,” said McCray.

In addition to the free space at the festival officials made arrange-ments for the Pottsville recruiters to be included in some live remote radio spots on two local radio stations.

39th Annual LoCk Haven Regatta

Story and Photos by Bill IrwinPublic Affairs Specialist

Lock haven once again played host to its 39th annual Regatta. The three day festival officially began at 10 a.m., Sept. 5 and ran through Sept. 7th. Along with the vendors on the Water Street midway the Lock Haven Recruiting Station established an Army Zone at the en-trace and right next to the performance stage.

“This area is perfect for our operations,” said Sgt.1st Class Brandon Donahay, “We are the first thing people experience when they enter the midway.” In addition to Donahay, Station Commander Staff Sgt. Vitautas Bucevicius enlisted the aid of some Reserve Soldiers as well as some of their Future Soldiers to work the event.

“With more than 50,000 people expected to turn out for this event we need all the help we can get to man our area,” Bucevicius said, “While we are working the rockwall the other Soldiers can engage at the HUMVEE or the push up mat. We want to make sure that everyone is greeted by a Soldier.”

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COMPANY CORNER

AUG/SEPT 2009 • 9

COMPANY CORNERThe Steel Soldiers of the Pittsburgh Recruiting Company have establish their first facebook page which can be

found at

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pittsburgh-PA/Steel-Soldiers/119829804073

this site links friends, families and alumni’s of the

Pittsburgh Recruiting Company worldwide.

At 8 a.m. Aug. 29, a rainy drizzly day, 48 Future Soldiers of the Carlisle Recruiting Company arrived at Fort Indiantown Gap for a training experience they will never for-get.

Six drill sergeants from C Company, 1/417th BCT/MP (OSUT), led by 1st Sgt. Andrew Brown, quickly barked out “fall in” to the FSs. Ensuring the FSs were properly formed in the special way that drill ser-geants do, they conducted physical train-ing. One part showing the proper tech-niques, two parts physical training, the FSs quickly learned what they needed to do and ended with a loud, “yes, drill sergeant!” Brown, wearing his “brown round,” watched over his drill sergeants and enforced the training standards.

The entire day focused on physical train-ing, basic Soldier tasks, and drill and cer-emony. After a long day of training, there

was a contest for the best individual drill and ceremony. The top two were awarded trophies for their accom-p l i s h m e n t s . Future Soldiers

Pre-Initial Entry TrainingBy Maj. Bill HammacCommanderCarlisle Company

of the Red Lion Recruiting Station received the station recognition and trophy.

After the ceremonies ended, many FSs talked with the drill sergeants on what to expect at basic training. When the Carlisle Company leadership team talked with the drill sergeants, many of the FSs asked for more training. Plans are to use the Janu-ary 2010 drill weekend to conduct another mega FS function.

Sgt. 1st Class Rebecca Gerber, Hanover Recruiting Station recruiter said, “On the ride back to the station, I didn’t talk, the Future Soldiers raved the entire trip back about the training and talked about the various things they did.”

Future Soldier Jeremy Garrison, an Offi-cer Candidate School applicant shipping in October, stated, “This was great. I only know what the recruiters tell me about basic, now I see it first hand and I am less nervous.”

Overall, this was a huge success and we will continue to use the Reserve drill ser-geant team. A few FSs expressed interest in attending the State College Pre-IET training with this same team tentatively scheduled for Oct. 24.

By Capt. Terry ReddCommanderGreensburg Company

County Fairs are a unique American tradi-tion that allows for the celebration of many traditions for communities. Fairs allow re-cruiters to meet and inform a broad cross-section of our target market as well as see and experience many of the nuances of our communities.

Greensburg Company supported five county fairs over the last few weeks. This is a daunting and often tiresome task because of the long coordination hours and late days supporting table setups along with assisting with USAREC level assets, such as the Orange County Chopper, the Interactive Semi, and the Marksmanship Trainer.

Often during a period with back- to- back fairs we also see a drop in processing due to the long hours supporting the events. Some Soldiers and leaders might say this is a costly price to pay; however, Soldiers and leaders need to remember that these events are an inexpensive way to reach a large portion of the communities we live in and recruit from. The pay off, or return on investment from the event, comes weeks and sometimes months down the road. This is not something that we can be comfortable with because we are always focused on the mission and the con-tracts we need right now.

It is important for all of us to remember that a house is built one brick at a time and that the foundation, the most important part of a house, takes the longest and requires a lot of work. We are building our foundations when we support events such as fairs. By put-ting in this hard work up front we are build-ing a solid foundation of leads and eventually contracts for the new fiscal year. So the next time fair season rolls around get a good plan together and take advantage of this unique American event to show the public the great opportunities the Army provides. WOLFPACK! COLDSTEEL!

COUNTY FAIRSGettiNG iNVOLVeD

FUTURE SOLDIER TRAINING FORT INDIANTOWN GAP

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ARMY NeWS

Spc. Laurie Choate, health care specialist, U.S. Army, Pacific Special

Troops Battalion, immunizes Sgt. Micha Starnes, USARPAC STB,

against influenza. Army News Service

In addition to the conventional flu shot administered each fall, the H1N1 or “Swine Flu” vaccine should be available by mid-October, said Col. Deborah Knickerbocker, chief of Emergency Preparedness and Response, the Office of the Surgeon General and Army Medical Com-mand.

Knickerbocker spoke during the Army Emergency Management Conference, Sept. 1, at the Pentagon. The conference coincided with the start of National Preparedness Month.

Getting flu shots, in addition to taking measures to prevent expo-sure to the virus or spreading the virus is part of preparedness, Knick-erbocker said. And it is important to maintaining mission readiness.

“When Soldiers and family members take care of themselves and prepare, they not only help the Army be more resilient, they help the local communities they are in be more resilient,” she said.

“There’s going to be vaccine, and there’s going to be enough to go around,” Knickerbocker said. “Everybody is going to get their shots.”

Knickerbocker said the H1N1 vaccine will be distributed to Sol-diers, families and other beneficiaries mostly through primary care providers.

“They’ll get their seasonal shots, and the H1N1 shot, as soon as they become available,” Knickerbocker said.

Along with the vaccinations, Knickerbocker recommends a num-ber of common-sense measures to prevent the spread of H1N1.

“Just teaching people about how easy it is to prevent disease by washing our hands, and cough- and sneeze-hygiene and etiquette, it’s pretty simple,” she said. “Part of what we need to do is instill in the culture of the military -- which does not really usually think this way -- to stay home when you are sick. If you go to work sick, you’ll make office mates sick, or squad mates.”

The H1N1 virus has made headlines because it’s a “novel” virus, Knickerbocker said.

“We haven’t seen the virus before. And when we have a virus that people have not been exposed to before, we have no immunity to it,” Knickerbocker said.

Many of the deaths from H1N1 occurred in Mexico, and in those already immuno-compromised, so the virus gained notoriety, Knick-erbocker said. But the effects of the virus have not been what was expected -- not even as bad as seasonal flu.

“The message has been sent out there that this particular virus is not as virulent as we had been planning for with the H5N1, not as vir-ulent as the seasonal flu,” she said. “And seasonal influenza kills about 36,000 in this country each year.”

Knickerbocker said that while Soldiers can expect to get vaccinat-ed for both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus, the Army does not expect the H1N1 to have damaging effects on the Army.

“I don’t think the Army is worried about this particular H1N1 virus. If it stays at the level of severity that it is now, which it is mild, it should have no more effect on operations than the seasonal flu does,” she said. “But we have to take care during flu season to try to prevent get-ting ill and staying home if we are ill, to prevent operational impact.”

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Soldiers and families can expect to get two flu shots this year.

Army Releases August Suicide DataBy Wayne V. Hall OCPA Media Relations

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Army released suicide data for the month of August today. Among active-duty Soldiers, there were 11 potential suicides, all of which are pending determi-nation of the manner of death. In July, the Army reported no confirmed suicides and eight potential suicides among active-duty Soldiers. However, since the release of the July report, an additional four potential suicides have been reported, each of which is pending determination of the manner of death. As a result, for the month of July, there were 12 potential suicides. Two of those have been confirmed as suicides and 10 remain under investigation. There were 110 reported active-duty Army suicides from Jan-uary 2009 through August 2009. Of those, 71 have been con-firmed, and 39 are pending determination of manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 89 suicides among active-duty Soldiers. During August 2009, among reserve component Soldiers who were not serving on active duty, there were six potential suicides. Among that same group, from January 2009 through August 2009, there were 20 confirmed suicides. Thirty-four po-tential suicides are currently under investigation to determine the manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 36 suicides among reserve Soldiers who were not serving on active duty. “Effective suicide prevention programs and resources that are accessible to our Soldiers and Families are a crucial part of our effort, and we’re making progress in these areas,” said Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, Army Vice Chief of Staff. “We recognize that the crucial link in preventing suicides is caring, concerned, and decisive small-unit leadership. There will never be a substitute for noncommissioned officers who know their Soldiers, know when a Soldier is suffering, and have the moral courage to act and get that Soldier the help that they need.” Since publishing the Army Campaign Plan for Health Promo-tion, Risk Reduction, and Suicide Prevention on April 16, 2009, the Army has implemented numerous improvements to its suicide prevention programs. Among those improvements are Army-wide guidance for delivering health promotion, risk re-duction, and suicide prevention programs and services directly to Soldiers and their families at the installation level. Soldiers and Families in need of crisis assistance should con-tact Military OneSource or the Defense Center of Excellence (DCOE) for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Out-reach Center. Trained consultants are available from both orga-nizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The Military OneSource toll-free number for those residing in the continental U.S. is 1-800-342-9647, their Web site address is www.militaryonesource.com. Overseas personnel should refer to the Military OneSource Web site for dialing instructions for their specific location.

The DCOE Outreach Center can be contacted at 1-866-966-1020 via electronic mail at Resources@DCoEOutreach.org and at www.dcoe.health.mil.

The Army’s most current suicide prevention information is located at www.armyg1.army.mil.

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ARMY NeWS

AUG/SEPT 2009 • 11

BATTALION NeWS

Lasting Imprpressions (Continued from pg. 5)

“Blose has gone above and beyond on many occasions to help me along the way,” Roth said. On the day of Roth’s board interview at the battalion, he left his shirt tie somewhere in the battalion. Roth called Blose, who turned around and came back to the battalion to look for Roth’s tie. After finding it, he called Roth to tell him that he had found it. “I think this is a shining example of this Soldier’s level of commitment to providing personalized service to his recruits,” Roth added.

“Blose seemed as motivated as me to get an OCS contract, even though the time invest-ment on his part was probably much greater than a standard enlistment,” Roth said.

According to Blose, Roth had

Story and photo by Staci CretuChief, A&PA

With more than 20 categories of competition, NHRA thrives on unique competitors accomplishing unique achievements. Only a great team can keep vehicles like these running smoothly — and great teams are made of talented individuals. Army teams work to-gether in the field just like the ones on the racetrack. The U.S. Army Top Fuel Team kept their dragster rocketing down the track at NHRA in Reading, Pa. on Aug. 23.

Each year, the Army and NHRA partner to honor some of the most courageous Army Soldiers by inviting them to to the racetrack. Cho-sen for his exceptional bravery and service, Staff Sgt. Todd A. Meckley Sr., has served in a variety of assignments since 1992 when he first enlisted. Meckley’s awards include over 20 awards and badges to in-clude the Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge.

“It was a great opportunity to get Army visibility and greet the community with a recruiter smile. The Maple Grove Speedway in Reading, Pa. hosted the Army’s Strength In Action Zone, designed to give USAREC an advantage to identify applicants with high propensity to enlist. Our recruiters were able to build COI relationships and work with them for future enlistments.” Capt. Sutton, Harrisburg Company.

Story and photo by Bill IrwinPublic Affairs Specialsit

In addition to the NHRA nationals at Maple Grove the week-end of Aug. 21-22, Harrisburg Company was also manning an ex-hibit at Lancaster’s Community Day Air Show. The reason Station Commander Sgt. 1st. Class Stephanie Pinkney decided to split forces and participate in both events was fairly simple “The NHRA this year was a great event for COIs but I wanted something for my Future Soldiers, and the Air Show provided that outlet,” said Pinkney.

One of the lead performance groups at this year’s air show was the Special Operations Command parachute demonstration team. The Assistant Team Leader Staff Sgt. Dewey Vinaya worked with the battalion TAIR coordinator for several years when he was a member of the 101st Screaming Eagles parachute demonstration yeam. “When I received the schedule for this year’s performances and saw Lancaster I had to contact the battalion staff. The last time I jumped in the battalion area was at a Barnstormers game in Lan-caster and I was anxious to connect again,” said Vinaya.

While Saturday’s performance was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions, the team still spent the afternoon at Lan-caster station’s table display, talking to Future Soldiers, signing autographs and posing for photos with visitors. The air show of-ficials made announcements all afternoon directing people to the display to meet with the recruiters and the team.

“The day worked out great for my Future Soldiers,” Pinkney said, “the team spoke to each one of them and answered all their questions, it really gave my Soldiers another perspective of the Army Story. And to top it off the team let me pull ground control for their jump on Sunday. That is like icing on the cake especially since I’m 82nd Airborne.

a college degree and wanted to do something with his degree. “He wanted to serve his country. He is very motivated and will do well and go far, “ Blose said.

Roth said he never felt pushed by Blose and was never asked about “Plan B.” “Furthermore, he never asked if I was willing to enlist if my waivers were de-nied. I could have walked away after months of work and Blose would have had nothing to show for it, but that never seemed to concern him. He was selflessly performing his duty and working with my best interest in mind,” he added.

Although Blose has numerous thank you notes on his desk from enlistees and their parents, he was surprised when he learned that Roth had sent this letter to the battalion commander.

NHra2009

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Selected recruiters from across the battalion assembled at battalion headquarters on Sept. 3 and 4 to compete in the battalion level Annual

Awards Board. Board winners will represent the battalion at the brigade level awards board.

First Seargeant of the Year

1st Sgt. Marcos Munozramos

Station Commander of the Year

Sgt. 1st Class Scoot Cassidy

NonCommisioned OffiCer of the Year

Staff Sgt. Ormond Wilson

USAR ReCruiter of the Year

Staff Sgt. Seth Moore

RA ReCruiter of the Year

Staff Sgt. John Kortz

Top New RA ReCruiter

Sgt. Carly Williams

Top New USAR ReCruiter

Staff Sgt. James Taulbee

1st Brigade Level Runner-ups

1st Sgt. Marcos MunozramosStaff Sgt. Seth Moore

Annual Awards Board

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Make the RIGHT CHOICE: ACTTo Prevent DOMESTIC ABUSE

October is DOMESTIC ABUSEPREVENTION MONTH in the ARMY