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Bonds Through the Ages:The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Give a Warm
Welcome to Vietnam War Veterans
King of Battle: The Field Artillery 1-144 Rocks the NTC
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Guard Unit show why they wear the Blackhorse patch with pride
Lucky 16:A family reunion of Cavalry Units hosted here at the
11th Armored Cavalry Regimental Stomping Grounds
Summer Edition 2014
The BlackhorseCol. John L. Ward
Commander of 11th ACR
CSM Carl A. AshmeadCommander Sergeant Major
of 11th ACR
Cpt. James Williams IIIPublic Affairs Officer
Publication StaffCpt. David S. Miller
Writer
Sgt. Erik A. ThurmanWriter
Sgt. David N. BeckstromWriter
Pfc. Denitra T. HalfordGraphic Artist
1st Lt. Evan M. FitzgeraldUPAR
The Blackhorse newsletter is an authorized publication for
members of the Department of Defense.
Editorial content is the responsibility of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs
Office.Contents of the publication are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,
or the Department of the Army.
Are You a Photographer or Writer?
The Blackhorse is looking for photos and stories on 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Anyone can submit a story or photo to 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs Office at ([email protected]). Photos must contain cutlines that identify the following: full name, rank, unit, and hometown. Stories should
be on or relate to 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Soldiers. However, travel stories and
editorials will be considered. For additional information please contact
11th Armored Cavalry RegimentPublic Affairs Office at (760) 380-8358.
ALLONS!
Command Sgt. Maj. Ashmead and I would like to thank the Troopers, Families, Civilians, and Veterans of the Blackhorse Regiment. Without the
contributions of each and every one of you there is no way that we can be successful in accomplishing our mission, honoring our heritage, and preserving the cavalry tradition.
You are our Regiment’s greatest asset.My time as the 65th Regimental Commander is coming to close. I want to thank all of you
for the lifelong impression you have made on me and for makingthis assignment the best of my career. Because of your efforts we have honed the combat skills of tens of thousands of Soldiers; many of whom have deployed to fight our nation’s wars. A measurable amount of their success and lives saved can be attributed to the work
that we have done here. I will take a little part of each of you with me and hope to find myself in the company of many of you at some point in the future.
NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER’S REPLICATED
ENEMYStory by Capt. David Miller11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
Fort Irwin, Calif. –February 2014, the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment is seeing their
hard work pay off. The 11th ACR spent the last 18 months training and executing Decisive Action opposing force tactics, and as of February of 2014 many have called them the measuring stick of the Army.
The 11th ACR has played the role of an “opposing force” at the National Training Center (NTC) since 1994. However, the role of opposing force has evolved every time the current operational environment has changed. They began by portraying the role of a near peer in the nineties, specializing in mechanized Infantry and Tank battles in desert terrain. When Operation Iraqi Freedom began, they replicated urban insurgencies, the role of local national security forces, as well as civilians on the battlefield. Recently, they have given U.S. Army units the challenge of facing asymmetric tactics in the mountains and small villages similar to what units face in Afghanistan. However, in the last two years, the 11th ACR has pursued the challenge of replicating a combination of every role that they have portrayed in the last 20 years. The newest NTC rotation is called Decisive Action and its main focus is preparing U.S. Army Brigade size elements, known as the Rotational Unit (RTU) for world wide deployment against a near peer enemy. Furthermore, this rotation trains units to not only face this Mechanized
Force, but Brigades also have to partner with local Army elements and face the challenge of Counter Insurgency Operations against an asymmetric guerrilla element. It is the most challenging battlefield imaginable.
After over a decade of portraying an insurgency, the 11th ACR returned to replicating, near peer: foreign Tanks, Infantry Fighting Vehicles, and Tow Missile Trucks. They portrayed the near peer Army that 11th ACR was feared for during the nineties. During the first few modern day Decisive Action Rotations, the fights were not as one sided as they were supposed to be.
A simulated improvised explosive device goes off during a training lane on Fort Irwin, Calif., Nov. 25.
The IED is used to increase the realism of the battlefield. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
accordingly. Their hardest days should be in the Mojave Desert which will only better them should they go overseas to face a real enemy.” During the spring of 2013, 1st Squadron 11th ACR got the opportunity to conduct its own training on a Decisive Action platform. They received training from the Observer, Coach, Trainers from Operations Group who normally focus on Rotational Units that are at Fort Irwin. It began at the Platoon level and eventually expanded up to the Squadron level, focusing on planning, maneuver techniques, as well as perfecting use of the equipment.
Col. John Ward explains, “As the opposing force at the National Training Center, 11th ACR serves as the measuring stick for the Army. If we are not creating the most challenging battlefield conditions in the world for the Rotational Units, we are doing them a disservice. It is our job to allow them to learn through their actions while adjusting their tactics, techniques, and procedures
Shortly after this training event, the 11th ACR replicated a near peer opposing force during NTC Rotation 13-08. However, this time they won all four major battles in the most convincing manner in over two decades.
Capt. Sebastian Engels, C 1/11ACR Troop Commander explained, “We went from nearly no maneuver capability to fully utilizing US doctrine in combined arms maneuver. The FTXs allowed for fundamentals to be developed at the lowest levels in the sections and platoons, refined through multiple repetitions, and then utilized in troop and squadron operations. Rotational performance enhanced exponentially following the repeated FTXs and showed in our success during Rotation 13-08.”
It is approximately One and a half years since the 11th ACR set out to reaffirm themselves as the nationally feared near peer opposing force, and in February, the 11th ACR ended another rotation with another series of convincing victories. Blackhorse Troopers walk with a swagger these days with the motto of, “This is Our House,” and the attitude of never being beat. However, every Blackhorse Trooper will acknowledge the importance of their impact on Brigade Combat Teams coming to Fort Irwin and the magnitude of being the best so that they can legitimately improve the rest of the Army.
Spc. Jeffrey Stalcup, a Javelin Gunner in B 1/11 ACR portrays the sentiment of the entire Regiment by saying, “I am proud to be a part of the improvements that this unit has gone through. We have learned to technically master our systems that used to present a challenge for us, such as the Javelin Anti-Tank Weapon. This has helped us reach our potential and train the RTU to the fullest capacity. Our mission is to ensure that the hardest fight for the RTU is at Fort Irwin. Our main goal is to indirectly prevent Soldiers from dying in combat.”
A Trooper with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment poses for a photo with his tank on Fort Irwin, Calif., June 21. The
tanks used during the Rotations simulate near-peer opposing forces that the Military might battle in the future.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Bonds Through the Ages
Jim Bledsoe and Roger Sturgis, veterans of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, display their motorcycle group's vest at the March 28, Welcome Home Ceremony and Motorcycle Ride on Marine Corps Logistic Base, Barstow, Calif. The Ceremony is to give the Vietnam Veterans the reception they should have received in the first place. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs /
Released)
Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The Fort Irwin community honored Veterans of the Vietnam War March
28, with a Motorcycle Ride and Welcome Home Ceremony. The ride started at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow, Calif., and ended here. “When I came home, I was told to change out of my uniform because it was dangerous,” said Ken Sabo, an 11th ACR Vietnam Veteran. “People didn’t like us at the time because they thought that every bad image coming from Vietnam was because of us. This was not what I expected.”
The Ride and Ceremony have become a tradition for the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, local Veterans, and the Fort Irwin Community.
The Welcome Home Ceremonies are conducted to provide a thank you and welcome home which many Vietnam Veterans didn’t receive after the war. The motorcycle ride allows people from all
over to show their support.
Participating veterans got to relive the camaraderie which they held while serving on the battlefield. “The uniqueness of the 11th ACR, being smaller than a Division, is one of the reasons we have such close bonds,” said Jim Bledsoe, a veteran of the 2nd Squadron, 11th ACR, serving during the time the Regiment was guarding the Fulda Gap in Germany during the Cold War. Wewereself-sufficientacrossthedifferentareas of the Regiment, said Roger Sturgis, also a veteran of the 11th ACR during the time of the Fulda Gapmission.Whenwewentouttothefield,wehadthe same cooks, mechanics, artillerymen, etc. as we did in garrison. The best part of this setup was getting to know the people we were working with. “Today, your friends in the Unit are called Battle Buddies, but for me the whole Squadron and
Ken Sabo, an 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment Vietnam Veteran,
and Miles Kimberling, a
Blackhorse Motorcycle associate,
converse with Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen J.
Travers, the Command Sgt.
Maj. of Fort Irwin, before the March
28, Welcome Home Ceremony
on Fort Irwin, Calif. The Cere-
mony is to give the Vietnam Veterans the reception they
should have re-ceived in the first place. (U.S. Army
photo by Sgt. David N.
Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment, Public Affairs /
Released)
Regiment are my Battle Buddies,” said Chuck Lewis, a Veteran of the 11th ACR during Fulda Gap and again during Desert Storm. As the Regiment was called upon time and again to go into harm’s way and to protect freedom, two associations as well as several motorcycle groups were formed. Several members of each group participated in the ride and ceremony.
The Blackhorse Association was the first,whichwasstartedin1969asapromisefromthen Col. George S. Patton and Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Squires to ‘not let people forget us’ and to ‘take care of our kids.’
Second, is the 11th Armored Cavalry’s Veterans of Vietnam & Cambodia, whichwasfoundedin1984afterseveralnamesofBlackhorse veterans were collected at the dedication of The Three Soldiers statue as a part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. “These groups were made to honor our fallen
brothers and to build Esprit de Corps among the rest of us,” said Sabo.
The Blackhorse patch
Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment, Veterans and Community
Members mingle by their motorcycles after a March 28, Welcome Home Ceremony and
Motorcycle Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif.
The Ceremony is to give the Vietnam
Veterans the reception they
should have re-ceived in the first place. (U.S. Army
photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public
Affairs / Released)
has a high recognition factor. Many times people have come up to thank me for the things which the Regiment did, even though I wasn’t a part of that specificmission,saidBledsoe.
“This level of friendship and camaraderie is rare within the military, and if we want it to continue then I have a challenge to the Troopers out there today: work together,” said Sturgis. “Just because you got a promotion doesn’t mean that you don’t have to do things. Don’t put your Troopers on a detail that you wouldn’t do. If they are sweeping the motor pool then grab a broom and help them. Not only will they respect you for it, but they will work harder for you because they know that you have their back.”
Throughout the years the Regiment has had a strong bond of friendship which can grow larger and more fruitful as time goes on and more Troopers are assigned to the unit.
Sgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs.
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – A Japanese Ground Self Defense
Force Battalion joined Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment in January for a training exercise at the National Training Center here.
Thefirstofitskind,thetwounits teamed up for an exercise aimed at preparing the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division from Joint Base Lewis-McCord for worldwide deployment. Scenarios included challenges faced while working with host nation militaries, while providing both the U.S. and Japanese Forces a chance to expand upon an existing partnership.
“The objective is to improve our unit maneuverability and capabilities, and to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese,” said Lt. Col. Nobuyuki Ishii, the lead staff officerofGroundStaffOffice(equivalent to Department of the Army Headquarters).
Before U.S. Army units deploy,theyfirstrotatethroughNTC, where they must face Troopers of the 11th ACR, who serve as the Army’s sparring partner. The 11th ACR specialize in replicating Opposing Forces Host Nation Security Forces; insurgencies; and civilian populations. The goal is to challenge training units that come through NTC on their capabilities prior to combat. The visiting JGSDF Battalion holds a similar mission-set while at their home station at Japan’s Camp Fuji
Combined Arms Training Center.
“This is a very different training environment for us,” said Ishii. “In Japan, the maneuver area is limited and in a much smaller area. Not only is this a larger physical environment, suitable for large scale training, but we think the experience in a harsh, desert environment will toughen our Soldiers.”
The3rdSBCTwasthefirstrotationaltrainingunitof2014.Forthe rotation, JGSDF consisted of three mechanized infantry platoons and one tank platoon. They paired with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR, to become Task Force Red Blitz which aimed to replicate HNSF. The 3rd SBCT could then direct or assist Task Force Red Blitz in the same way they would during partnerships with real-world HNSF during overseas operations.
U.S. and Japanese Forces
Pioneer TrainingTroopers with C Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and a Japanese Ground Self Defense Force Battalion pose for a
photo on each others tanks during a joint training rotation at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif. "The objective is to improve our unit maneuverability and capabilities, and to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese," said Lt. Col. Nobu
yuki Ishii, the lead staff officer of Ground Staff Office. (U.S. Army photo by the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)
Capt. Sebastian Engles, from Presque Isle, Maine, commander of C. Troop, 1/11ACR, explained that initiallya communication barrier existed between 11th ACR Troopers and Japanese Soldiers. Both units had to rely on interpreters to communicate. Technical aspects wereevenmoredifficult.“We could not talk to them on the radios because our systems werenotconfiguredtotalktoeach other,” said Engles. The maneuvering capabilities of the two elements also presented a challenge.
“Their vehicles were not ready for the environment,” continued Engles. “They popped a lot of tires but they were quick to adapt.Engles explained that though each unit had to make adjustments onthefly,theattitudeofeachforce was to adapt and overcome regardless of the conditions. “Itwasdefinitelyatestforthearmy.Itwasthefirsttimethatitever happened,” he said. To solve communications issues, Engles placed the JGSDF Battalion commander inside a Humvee on themockbattlefieldwithaU.S.ArmyOfficertocallinreportsonthe commander’s behalf. “I also had a (Noncommissioned Officer)servingasaliaisonwithone of their companies, armed with a radio so he could provide real-time information to me on what the company was doing. We didn’t start that way. It was initially ‘let’sjusttrytofigurethisout’,”Engles said. “Overall, especially by the end of it, we had progressed significantly,tothepointwherewe were conducting operations together and we were a force to be reckoned with.” Sgt. Jose Mercado, a Tanker from New York City, assigned to C. Troop, served as a liaison
between the two companies. “At the squad level, the partnership was really important. In order for ustoestablishthesortoffightingteam that we had together, we had to have that type of communication so I could paint the picture of the battlefieldforthecommander,”hesaid.
Mercado found that each of the two militaries had cultural similarities that were easy for many 11th ACR Troopers to identify with. “Once they got to the point where they needed to be aggressive; they were aggressive. Their ability to shoot move and communicate was impressive. They want to defend their country. They love their country. They are really proud of what they do. The guys that I worked with were reconnaissance scouts. I learned a lot from them and I was really impressed.”
Engles found the exercise tohaveresonatingbenefits.“Itwas a very unique experience. I think as we step back from Iraq and Afghanistan, a lot of my Troopers have not had the experience to
work with an allied military. This was eye opening for a lot of these guys who may have come from somewhere where they never left their hometown prior to joining the Army. Now all of the sudden they are climbing aboardaType74Tank(mainbattletank of the JGSDF) and conversing with Japanese Soldiers on the similarities or the differences of our equipment or even, the cultural similarities and differences. And I think that more than anything else that was a win for me. In the event we ever have to go work with these guys in the future at the very least we have this to look back on and say ‘hey it’s still possible.’ It’s absolutely possible to work with another military.”
A portion of this article was taken from a previous publication by the National Training Center, Public Affairs: http://www.army.mil/article/118238/Japanese_Soldiers_train_at_National_Training_Center_for_the_first_time
Capt. Sebastian Engels, Commander of C
Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment, and Lt. Col. Nobuyuki Ishii, the lead staff officer of Ground Staff Office, pose for a photo in
front of their tanks. A Japanese Ground Self
Defense Force Battalion joined
Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Reg-iment in January for a training exercise at the
National Training Center. (U.S. Army photo by the 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment / Released)
Lucky 16
The Command teams and staff pose for a photo during the Lucky 16 Charter signing and gathering on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 7. The Lucky 16 is comprised of the three Cavalry Regiments in the active Army; the 2nd CR Dragoons, the 3rd CR Brave Rifles, and the 11th ACR Blackhorse. The number 16 is the sum
of the identifying numbers of each unit. A Lucky 16 Gathering convenes each time at least two of the three units participate in corresponding missions while at the same location. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. James
Williams III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Lucky 16
Story by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, photos by Capt. James Williams
Fort Irwin, Calif. – Troopers of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment and 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment
participated in a Lucky 16 Gathering, following 3rd CR’s training at the National Training Center, April 7, here. The Lucky 16 is comprised of the three Cavalry Regiments in the active Army; the 2nd CR Dragoons, the 3rd CR Brave Rifles, and the 11th ACR Blackhorse. The number 16 is the sum of the identifying numbers of each unit. A Lucky 16 Gathering convenes each time at least two of the three units participate in corresponding missions while at the same location. “The forming of the Lucky 16 was initially to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures because it was figured at that time that a young officer was likely to bounce between the different cavalry organizations during his career,” said Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR. “They wanted to have some sort of standardization to reduce any overlap between the organizations. To me that’s still
very important. The basics of reconnaissance are still there. And an opportunity to get the people together, the organizations together, to share some of that background is a great thing.” At the event, leaders gathered to recount in the history of all three units and add to that history by signing a Charter that includes a proclamation that marked the commencement of the Lucky 16. “I served as an enlisted Soldier during my time in the 2nd CR before becoming a commissioned officer,” said 1st Lt. Walter Holmes, Executive Assistant for the 11th ACR. “Now that I am serving in the 11th ACR, it’s good to see the Cavalry from the perspective of another unit to expand upon the heritage of it all.” Holmes said the April 7, Lucky 16 Gathering was a first for him and that what he enjoyed most about the event was the retelling of the history of all three units and the camaraderie and strengthening of bonds that comes with it. To understand the significance of the Lucky 16, it is important to understand the history of how
Colonel Cameron M. Cantlon, Commander of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment with a plaque to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Col. John L. Ward, Commander, who accepts the plaque on behalf of the 11th ACR, during a Lucky 16 Gathering, Fort Irwin, Calif., April 7. (U.S.
Army photo by Capt. James Williams III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
these units, particularly the 11th ACR, came to be. In 1901, after congress moved to increase the size of the U.S. Cavalry, Col. Francis Moore, a seasoned combat veteran of the Civil and Spanish-American Wars, became responsible for activating the 11th Cavalry Regiment as the unit’s first Commanding Officer. Moore started by bringing hardened non-commissioned Officers and Officers to the unit from other existing Cavalry Regiments such as the 2nd and 3rd Cavalry Regiment as well as the 11th Volunteer Cavalry. “I have 400 men who have never seen a horse. I have 400 horses who have never seen a man. And I have 15 Officers who have never seen a man or a horse,” said Moore, more than one-hundred years ago. Over the next few decades, riding on horseback became a less viable means of war-fighting. Cavalry units were eventually deactivated, re-designated or outfitted with modernized equipment which dramatically changed their tactical nature. Despite modernizations, many traditions survived. Spurs, Stetson cowboy hats, sabers and the tactical terminology used in the old cavalry remain commonplace. For example, a Trooper would not simply ride in a tank rather; he would be mounted on his tank.
During the 1970s in Nuremberg Germany, the organization was ironically known as the Lucky 13; then only comprised of the 2nd and the 11th. By
Command Sgt. Maj. Carl Ashmead, the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment, signs a
charter acknowledging a Lucky 16 Gathering at Fort Irwin, Calif.,
with members of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, April 7. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. James Williams
III, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released)
1979, the 3rd joined the fold, evolving the organization into the Lucky 16. It became based more on tradition since by then, the missions of each Regiment, as well as their equipment, were different. “I first came to know of the Lucky 16 while training at NTC while assigned to the 2nd ACR based out of Fort Polk, Louisiana,” said Ward. “During that rotation we were able to combine the 11th, the 2nd; the 3rd ACR and interestingly enough, the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment from the Tennessee National Guard. So, at that time we had the four serving Cavalry Regiments within the United States Army. I was a young Major at that time and just in the gathering of those individuals left a lasting impression on me.” Today, the Dragoons, Brave Rifles, and the Blackhorse continue to play a vital role as some our Nation’s deadliest modern war-fighters. The Dragoons and Brave Rifles are outfit with Stryker Armored Fighting Vehicles, designed for use in urban combat. The Blackhorse is outfit with a wide array of tracked vehicles, serving as the sparring partner for the rest of the Army. The 11th ACR also stand ready to deploy if called upon.
Denim Day WalkSgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
Fort Irwin, Calif. – Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Family Members and
members of the Fort Irwin community participated in a post-wide Denim Day Walk to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault here, April 10.
“It was a very motivating experience,” said Spc. Sara Fleming, a Nodal Network Systems Operator, assigned to the 11th ACR. “It’s good to see that the Army is taking such a strong stance on this. It supports the notion that the victim is not the one to blame for sexual assault. I have only been in (Army) for four and a half years and in that time I have noticed an increase in awareness and the way they actually approach the cases.”
The denim worn by participants referenced a 1998 Italian court case where a convicted rapist was released from prison due to the victim’s tight jeans. The courts concluded that because the victim’s jeans were so tight, the victim must have assisted the attacker with their removal – thus giving consent. The court’s decision sparked outrage among women in the Italian Parliament who began wearing denim in protest.
The trend grew world-wide into Denim Day. Organizations across the globe, now wear denim in solidarity to symbolize the work that still needs to be done to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault.
Participants at Fort Irwin took to the streets to walk through neighborhoods and by local schools where children lined the curbs to watch the walk. The 11th ACR included an Army tank as well as
the 11th ACR Horse Detachment to symbolize the Regiment’s support for raising awareness, in which an attacker was released from prison by an Italian court, who found that because the victim wore tight jeans, they would have had to assist the perpetrator in removing them, thus giving consent. The court’s decision sparked outrage among women in the Italian Parliament who then began wearing denim to work in protest. The trend grew worldwide into Denim Day, where organizations wear denim in solidarity to symbolize the work that still needs to be done to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault.
Troopers, Families and other members of the Fort Irwin community gathered together to participate in their own Denim Day Walk, to show their willingness to support victims and to raise awareness. Following the event, leaders engaged Troopers, assuring them that sexual harassment and sexual assault will never be tolerated in the US Army and that leaders want victims to come forward so they can be given the care they need and so that victimizers can be brought to justice.Following the Denim Day Walk, leaders engaged Troopers, assuring them that sexual harassment and sexual assault will never be tolerated in the US Army. Leaders stressed that they want victims to come forward so that they can be given the care they need and so that victimizers can be brought to justice.
“I’m glad to see the Army’s implementation of victim advocates who help victims of sexual assault receive treatment instead of the Army focusing solely on the judicial proceedings of perpetrators “ said Spc. Fleming.
“People are our number one priority, it doesn’t surprise me that the Army is going to such great lengths to prevent sexual assault and sexual harassment,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, 11th ACR.
Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Horse Detachment pass a local Fort Irwin school, during the annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April
10. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
A shirt is displayed during an annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April 10. (U.S. Army
photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads Troopers of the Regiment during the annual Denim Day Walk at Fort Irwin, Calif., to raise awareness of sexual harassment and sexual assault, April 10. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Lt. Col. Freder-ick R. Snyder, the
Commander of 1st Squadron, 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads his
Troopers as they march through
Barstow, Calif., to the Barstow Veterans Home of California
on Dec. 17. The march from Fort
Irwin, Calif., to the Veterans Home is a tradition which Sgt. Maj. Ret. Scott R.
Johnson, a for-mer 1/11 Trooper,
started. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public
Affairs / Released)
Col. John L. Ward, the Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads a Regimental Run in preparation
for the 14-07 Rotation against 2nd Stryker Bri-gade Team, 25th infantry Division
on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 14. The runs are to promote esprit de corps and
to remind the Rotational Training
Unit that ‘This Is Our House!’ (U.S.
Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford,
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released)
Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment participate in a training lane on
Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 3. The training lane was in support
of the FOX Broadcasting’s
MasterChef filming, where the
contestants needed to feed 500
Troopers of the 11th ACR. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public
Affairs / Released)
Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F.
Chandler III, the Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army, visits
with Troopers of the 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment of Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 20. He wanted to meet the Soldiers
responsible for training the U.S. Army and ensure they were being
taken care of. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released)
Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
Photos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom and
Sgt. Erik A. Thurman
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment bid farewell to Command Sgt.
Maj. Philip N. Simpao and welcomed Command Sgt.
Maj. Carl A. Ashmead during a March 12, Change of
Responsibility ceremony here.
The event signified the transfer of authority
between Simpao and Ashmead by passing the Non-
Commissioned Officer’s Saber, making Ashmead the
21st Command Sgt. Major of the 11th ACR.
Simpao, will assume responsibility of the 1st
Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment at Fort Drum, N.Y.
“The lessons that I have learned, and the
gratitude that fills my heart for being able to wear
the Blackhorse patch and sucking in the dust of the
National Training Center each day is immeasurable,”
said Simpao. “I can only hope that my time in the
saddle has been as fruitful for both the NTC and the
Regiment as it has been for me and my wife Rose.”
Simpao served the Regiment and the
Troopers for more than three years, initially as the
2nd Squadron Command Sgt. Maj. before being
Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip N. Simpao, out-going 11th ACR Command Sgt. Maj. (Left), Col. John L. Ward, Regiment Commander (Center), and Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, the 21st Regiment Command Sgt. Maj. (Right), during a March 12, Change of Responsibility on Fort Irwin, Calif. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs /
Released)
Passing the Saber
continued by saying that Ashmead is just the man for
the job and that he is looking forward to serving with
him in the months ahead.
“Words cannot express that absolute feeling
of pride and joy that I have (in) becoming the newest
member of this historic Regiment,” said Ashmead.
“This Regiment does not exist to give me a position.
My position exists to give every Trooper; Family
Member; and Civilian Employee of this Regiment
my best every day, to ensure that they are successful;
this unit is successful; and our Army is successful.
I am available to every member of this Regiment,
regardless of rank or situation, 24 hours-a-day from
this time forth.”
assigned as the Regimental Command Sgt. Major.
“I knew that Command Sgt. Maj. Simpao
would always be there for the Troopers if they were
ever in need or in trouble,” said Col. John L. Ward,
the Commander of the 11th ACR. “Due
to this dedication, I knew that he would be the
person that I called upon to serve in place of
Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen J. Travers when he was
called to become the Post Command Sgt. Maj. of
NTC.”
Just like any great organization, there is
another Trooper standing in the wings waiting to
pick up that guidon and run with it, said Ward. He
Incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Carl A. Ashmead, 21st Command Sgt. Maj. of the 11th ACR, receives the Non-Commissioned Officer’s Saber from Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR, during a March 12, Change of Responsibility on Fort Irwin, Calif. (U.S.
Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Cavalry Kids Earn Their
Spurs
Sgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment held its annual Children’s
Spur Ride, April 18. The Children’s Spur Ride is
an event that gives children of Cavalry Troopers
a chance to earn their Spurs through obstacles
and kid-friendly versions of what their Army
parents endure to earn theirs.
“It’s important because it shows that
we are Family oriented and we appreciate the
sacrifices Family Members make, especially with
the back-to-back training rotations,” said Sgt. 1st
Class Anaki Spence, an organizer of the event,
assigned to the Regimental Support Squadron,
11th ACR. “It’s a chance to bring Family
1st Sgt. Frederick Batiste, the 1st Sgt. for Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, leads the children of the Blackhorse
Regiment in a modified Physical Fitness program during the Child Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to
the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo
by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Children of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment crawl through a mud pit as part of the Child Spur
Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit
would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Members and the Soldiers together to have fun,
let their hair down and enjoy the history of the
Regiment.”
The event included first aid, target practice
with water guns, dodging water balloons from
behind sand bags, navigating a mud pit, and even
taking a ride in a Bradley Fighting Vehicle.
The Spur Ride is a Cavalry Tradition
dating back to its ancestry when Troopers
were mounted on horseback. A Trooper new
to the unit was known as a shaved tail; named
for having been given a horse that’s had its tail
shaved. This told riders around him that they
were not yet proficient at riding. By the time
“My favorite part was riding
in the tank,” said Adam Conard, a
participant in the spur ride. He said
A child of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment ap-plies camouflage paint to her mother’s face during the Child Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The
Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for the children to experience this tradition.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Ar-mored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
A child of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment receives her spur after completing the Child Spur
Ride of Fort Irwin, Calif., April 18. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where new members to the unit would need to earn their spurs; this is a chance for
the children to experience this tradition. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
he enjoyed the water balloons and the mud pit
but since it was his first time, the tank ride was
hard to beat.
“I had fun and so did all the kids,” said
Kelly Conard, Adam’s mother, an Army Spouse
at Fort Irwin. She explained that with Fort Irwin
being so small, it’s good for the unit to give kids
a chance to interact with one another outside of
school and to get a small taste of what Troopers
do. “I did the Spouse’s Spur Ride last year and I
like how these events bring everyone together.”
A Chaplain
Protecting His FlockStory by Capt. David Miller
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – As a two time
Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom,
the 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment’s Chaplain, Capt. Chuck Lowman,
is known to many as a motivated pastor who
goes on missions with the same Soldiers
whom he counsels.
Chaplain Lowman explains, “Though
I am not authorized to fire a military weapon
(because of the specific occupation), I have
a great opportunity to help Soldiers achieve
their mission, whether I am helping them
cross concertina wire or just being another
set of eyes, I can be there to support them
in their military mission, with the hope that
they can come to me for help with their
personal mission.”
Lowman has built a reputation across
his unit as a Chaplain that leads by example.
Along with going on missions, he executes
Chaplain (Capt.) Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, stands atop of a Combat Outpost as his Troopers prepare for their next mission. “Though
I am not authorized to fire a military weapon (because of the specific occupation), I have a great opportunity to help Soldiers achieve their mission, whether I am helping them cross concertina wire or just being another set of eyes, I can be there to support them in their military mission, with the
hopes that they can come to me for help with their personal mission,” said Lowman. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
/ Released)
foot marches, attends events, etc. earning
Troopers’ trust to be a positive influence on
their lives. I want the Troopers to see me as
a man who is cut from the same cloth, said
Lowman.
Sgt. Joel Strauch, the 1/11th ACR
Non-Commissioned Officer of the Month,
spoke of one memory in particular, “Chaplain
Lowman actually laid down his body on
an obstacle for us to run across. Actions
like this make him seem more human and
approachable.”
Chaplain Lowman spoke of the biblical
Prophet Ezekiel who had a calling to watch
over the people of Israel. Lowman explains,
“I feel that these Soldiers are my flock. I am
charged with watching over them spiritually,
emotionally, and physically. This is my duty as
their Chaplain and my calling from the Lord.”
Chaplain Lowman’s unorthodox
approach has made it possible for him to help
hundreds of Soldiers and their families.
Chaplain (Capt.) Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, cares for his
child during a Cavalry Show on Fort Irwin, Calif. Chap. Lowman cares for his Military family with the same love and dedication that he shows his Personal Family. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Sgt. David N. BeckstromSgt. Erik A. Thurman11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – A total of 83, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Troopers;
earned their spurs in a Feb. 2 thru 3, Spur Ride. Although the Cavalry no longer use horses tactically, the Spur Ride remains a long-standing tradition adopted by the U.S. Cavalry, dating back to the days of knighthood. While Spur Rides vary from unit to unit, the traditions all center on a heritage of horsemanship. First Lt. Andrew S. Roland, of Jacksonville, Fla., assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1/11 ACR, served as the Officer-in-Charge of the planning and execution of the Squadron’s Spur Ride. Roland explained that candidates are referred to as ‘Shaved Tails,’ a name that is derived from the days when Cavalrymen were mounted on horsback. Spurs were not given to Troopers new to riding since a new rider’s lack of experience could present a danger to those around him. When a new Trooper arrived to their unit and received their horse, the mare’s tail would be shaved. The bare tail warned other Cavalrymen that the rider was inexperienced in handling the animal and room should be given for him to maneuver. “By the time the horse was able to grow out its tail, the Trooper was considered trained and that horse was able to join him in combat from then on,” Roland said. Spur Rides are seen as a rite-of-passage. They are not what some often confuse with a form of hazing. Hazing typically involves punishment as a rite-of-passage with no defined purpose; a Spur Ride creates a controlled stressful environment for
candidates in order to promote teamwork - a crucial necessity for all U.S. Army training and more importantly, any battlefield. The 1/11 ACR Spur Ride began after sundown with a Feb. 2, road march to Fort Irwin’s training area. There, candidates separated into squads before rotating through several training stations involving everything from dismounted patrols to using hand grenades. Only after a Shaved Tail had proven proficiency could they road-march back from the training area to be awarded their Spurs. From then on, Troopers could wear the coveted Spurs on their boots during military ceremonies. “The ability to participate in this Spur Ride has given me a tie to the past,” said Staff Sgt. John A. Haynesworth, a newly-made Spur Holder assigned to HHT, 1/11ACR. “Without tradition there is no Army. We pull so much from our past that we would not be who we are now without it.” “I wanted to prove to myself that I know what I am doing, to show that I can do this and uphold the legacy of the Cavalry,” said Pvt. 1st Class Ryan C. Abbott, a newly-made Spur Holder assigned to HHT, 1/11 ACR. Traditions are passed down from one generation to the next, whether it is being told or shown to the new holders. “Being able to pass the knowledge that I had gained when I went through the Spur Ride makes me feel like I am a mentor to the new Candidates,” said Spc. Caleb J. Smith, a Spur Ride Lane Walker from HHT, 1/11 ACR. “It makes me feel good that I was able to show these new Spur hopefuls the ropes. Once they are inducted into the Order of the Spur, there will be a feeling of camaraderie amongst us that wasn’t there before,” Smith said. “This Tradition not only ties us together but it links us to the past.”
IronHorse Accepts
Spur Ride Challenge
A Trooper assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in a hand grenade lane during a Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 2-3. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where a new Trooper is given
a horse with a shaved tail, signifying to the other Troopers to give this horse and rider extra space during train-ing and battle. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs/
Released)
A Trooper assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in a hand grenade lane during a Spur Ride on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb. 2-3. The Spur Ride is a Cavalry tradition where a
new Trooper is given a horse with a shaved tail, signi-fying to the other Troopers to give this horse and rid-er extra space during training and battle. (U.S. Army
photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs/Released)
After completing the Spur Ride, Troopers assigned to 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment are presented
their Spurs and inducted into the Order of the Spur in front of their entire Squadron on Fort Irwin, Calif., Feb 3. The Order of the Spur is a long-standing tradition in the Cavalry; it symbolizes the rite-of-passage new troopers
need to go through to be considered proficient with their mounts, sabers, and weapons. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs/Released)
Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
Photos by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Children and Families of
the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and Fort
Irwin attended an Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the
Protestant Woman of the Chapel, April 19.
“I am very grateful to the community
for showing up,” said Kassy B. Sublett, the event
organizer and PWOC Community Outreach
Coordinator. “I just wanted to give our kids a chance
to enjoy themselves and meet with other kids outside
of school.”
Children from all over the community were
eager for the event to begin. When the hunt started
they rushed the field with much laughter and many
smiles.
“Seeing all the kids having fun and being
happy today, especially my friends, was awesome,”
said Jennie A. Seitz, a Fort Irwin 1st grader.
More than 500 Children and Family members
participated in the Easter Egg Hunt. The event was
broken into three age groups; each having eggs
hidden in increasingly difficult areas.
“I had four children participating today,”
said Capt. Chuck Lowman, the Chaplain for 1st
Easter Eggs were hidden for the children of Fort Irwin during the Community Easter Egg Hunt on April 19, here. The eggs were donated by the Protestant Women of the Chapel, Catholic Women of the Chapel, Awanas,
and members of the Fort Irwin Community. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Hunting for the Eggs
Squadron, 11th ACR. “After the hunt started my kids
didn’t want to stop searching. They kept looking well
after the last egg was found.”
The Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment work in the field for 14 days straight each
month to train the rest of the Army. This type of
training cycle can take a toll on family life.
“Being a part of the community is crucial to
make Fort Irwin work,” said Lowman. With Troopers
out training for weeks on end, the installation can feel
that much more isolated. Participating in events like
these can go a long way in helping Families
develop a stronger hometown feeling.
Children of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and Fort Irwin participate in an Easter Egg Hunt on April 19, here. The event was sponsored by the Protestant Women of the Chapel with donations coming from members of the Fort Irwin community. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released)
Different groups in the community sponsor
events like this throughout the year to encourage the
community to get together and build camaraderie.
“The community of Fort Irwin really came
together to put this Easter Egg Hunt on,” said Sublet.
“The PWOC donated 5,000 eggs and candies as well
as more donations from the Catholic Women of
the Chapel, Awanas and members of the Fort Irwin
community.”
Fort Irwin Teacher Wins New CarStory and photos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
VICTORVILLE, Calif. – A Fort Irwin Elementary School Teacher won a car for
having perfect attendance during the 2013-2014 school year. The teacher learned of her prize at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 17.
It’s a Gas to Go to Class is a Program that encourages teachers and high school students in Southern California to strive for
perfect attendance during the school year by offering prizes and incentives for staying in class. Victorville Motors, the California Teachers Association, and other sponsors donated several prizes. The biggest were three 2014 Dodge Darts.
“I never thought that I would be part of the semifinalists, much less the actual winner of the car,” said Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade Teacher at Lewis Elementary, a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. “I am very grateful to the different
Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade teacher at Lewis Elementary on Fort Irwin, Calif., a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, poses with the Victorville Motors Team after she won a new 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2014 It’s a Gas to Go to Class event on May 17. The Program encourages teachers and high school students to strive for perfect attendance by offering prizes
and incentives. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Fort Irwin Teacher
Wins New Car
organizations that have made this possible.”
Image Source of California enabled the teachers to participate in the event this year by donating one of the cars.
“We feel that the teachers don’t get the
“I do this so that my students
could have the highest quality education possible, and to motivate
recognition that they deserve for all their hard work,” said Kendall Goslee, an Accounts Manager with Image Source. “Education is crucial for the future and the teachers are the ones giving it.”
More than 1500 students and teachers, had perfect attendance this year; the highest eligibility since the program’s inception in 2011.
Weaver proved her dedication to her class by commuting an hour to Fort Irwin every day to keep her perfect attendance record.
our community’s children to do their best.” said Weaver.
Ailene Weaver, a 2nd Grade teacher at Lewis Elementary on Fort Irwin, Calif., a school that is sponsored by 2nd Squadron, 11th Ar-mored Cavalry Regiment, is excited after she won a new 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2014 It’s a Gas to Go to Class program on May 17. The
Program encourages teachers and high school students to strive for perfect attendance by offering prizes and incentives. (U.S. Armyphoto by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
This event was about the education of the next generation. By having incentives for attendance, business owners of Southern California are helping mold young minds into the citizens we need tomorrow.
“This program increases graduation rates
and lowers truancy numbers while also getting the children more engaged in their learning,” said Tim Watts, the Chief Operating Officer of Victorville Motors.
Join us in congratulating Staff Sgt. Darryl Jewel, with2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, for
finishing 1st in his age division and 65th overall at the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon. The
Half-Marathon celebrates the unique quality of SanDiego and helps local Charities.
Troopers of the Reg-iment participated in the 55th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade in Torrence,
Calif. May17, 2014. The 11th ACR was represented by the Regiment's Horse Detachment, a platoon of
combat Troopers, an M1-A Abrams Tank, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle and an M88 Hercules Recovery
Vehicle. The following day, the Reg-iment displayed their vehicles for
citizens to see up close and personal. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip N. Simpao, former Command Sgt. Maj. of the 11th Armored Cav-alry Regiment, and Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the
11th ACR, fire pistols into the Ceremonial Grog at the 11th
ACR Regimental Ball at South Point Hotel and Casino in Las
Vegas, March 7. They spiked the punch with the ‘Fighting Spirit and Desire to Win’. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman,
11th Armored Cavalry Regi-ment, Public Affairs / Released)
Troopers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Horse
Detachment held a Stable Days event on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 14. The event allowed commu-nity members to see a histori-cally accurate reenactment of
Cavalry skill and tactics as well as hay-rides, bounce houses and a barbeque. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released)
Story and photos by
Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
VICTORVILLE, Calif. –
Soldiers from the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment and
the Victorville Recruiting Center
participated in the It’s a Gas to
Go to Class celebration at the San
Bernardino County Fairgrounds,
here May 18.
The event was a reward
for high school students with
perfect attendance. The Soldiers
participated to show their support
for their accomplishments and
to discuss what the Military has
to offer for careers. They also
displayed an M2A3 Bradley
Fighting Vehicle and a Humvee.
“We wanted to build a
rapport with these children and
support them in their decisions
to stay in school,” said Staff Sgt.
Rodrigo A. Pimentel, a Recruiter
with the Victorville Recruiting
Center. “We also wanted to show
these bright young children that
the Military is a viable option once
they graduate.”
Soldiers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and the Victorville Recruiting Center spoke with potential recruits at the It’s a Gas to Go to Class event held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 18. While they
were there, they spoke with potential Army recruits about what the Army has to offer for careers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office / Released)
Bright New
Recruits
With the drawdown of
the Military, it is becoming more
difficult to join. By attending
events that promote good
citizenship, the Army can look for
new recruits with high standards.
“These are the type
of new recruits the Army is
looking for,” said Sgt. William
D. Hardcastle, also a Recruiter
with the Victorville Recruiting
Center. “They have already proven
that they want to be prosperous
members of the community by
staying in school and taking an
active part in their future.”
Speaking with Soldiers,
other than recruiters, allowed for a
broader spectrum of Army jobs to
be explored.
“I was able to talk to
possible recruits about what I do
in the Army and the different types
of vehicles I have used,” said Pvt.
Marcos A. Chavira, a rifleman with
A troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR.
“I was able to show them what it
takes to start a career in the Army.”
Drawing in potential
recruits has been a challenge; by
bringing the vehicles it helped get
past this hurdle.
“I first saw the big tank
while I was out here and thought
that it was really cool,” said Daniel
Jefferies, a future recruit. “When
I came over to the tank I started
talking to the Soldiers about what
they do and how I could do it too.”
Keeping young minds,
which want to join the Army and
serve their country, informed
allows the future generation of
Soldiers to be the best they can be.
Soldiers with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment pose in front of an M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle at the It’s a Gas to Go to Class event held at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds May 18. While they were there, they spoke with potential Army recruits about what the Army has to offer for careers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David
N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs Office / Released)
Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – The
11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment, or Blackhorse
Regiment, hosted its spouses,
adult family members and the
Fort Irwin Middle School’s
7th grade class in a tour of the
training area here May 16.
The tour provided
an opportunity for them to
experience what their Soldiers
go through during the training
rotations.
“Coming out on a tour
like this gave me the chance to
truly appreciate the amount of
work that goes into a rotation,”
said Keele Elder, a spouse within
the Blackhorse Regiment. “I didn’t
understand just how complex this
training can be. I used to think that
the soldiers look at the Box like a
place to play, but I now see that it is
real and a lot of hard work.”
The Blackhorse Troopers
conducted a training event where
they reacted to insurgent gun
fire, rocket propelled grenades,
and improvised explosive
devices to simulate real combat.
Pyrotechnics were used to add a
higher level of realness.
The Blackhorse Regiment
uses these tactics to train visiting
units here to ensure that they
are prepared for worldwide
deployments.
“I have been a part of the
training lane before and I wanted
Col. John L. Ward, the Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, poses for a photo with the family members who attended the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of the training area and training
lane helps the family members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Experiencing the Box
Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch as simulated improvised explosive device is detonated during the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of the training area and training lane helps the family
members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
Children of the Fort Irwin Middle Schools
7th grade class pose for a group photo during their class fieldtrip to
the training area, locally known as The Box, on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The fieldtrip of the training area helps the
family members to understand what their
service members go through on a daily basis
during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo
by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs
/ Released)
my wife to see what it is
that I do out here,” said
Spc. Coty Washington,
a medic with Headquarters
and Headquarters Troop 1st
Squadron, 11th ACR. “Since
she only gets to hear about the
training area from me, she never
gets to see the big picture.”
While the Regiment put
on the demonstration for the
spouses, the 7th grade children
within the Regiment were also
seeing what The Box entails.
“These kids know that
their parents are working in
The Box, but they don’t really
understand what is going on out
here,” said Katherine Hamor, a
Language Arts Teacher at Fort
Irwin Middle School. “This is a
chance for them to see what is
happening and to connect to it and
their parents better.”
During their fieldtrip, the
7th graders were able to fire an
array of military weapons, explore
the tactical vehicles, and get a feel
for life within the box.
“I really liked the tanks
because my dad fixes them and so I
get to be around a lot of the parts,”
said Alexia Bostic, a 7th grader at
Fort Irwin Middle School. “I think
it is cool to see them when they
are all put together.” The regiment
hosted the tours, so that the Fort
Irwin community could come
together.
“We wanted to put this
Box Tour together to keep our
families and spouses together in
a more intimate setting to show
them what their Soldiers end up
doing as we go out in support of
the rotations,” said Col. John L.
Ward, Commander of the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment. “This
also gives them a more regimental
centered discussion as we are out
in the Box.”
Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch a training lane during the Spouse and Family Box
Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. The tour of
the training area and training lane helps the
family members to understand what their
service members go through on a daily basis during the
rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N.
Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public
Affairs / Released)
Families of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment watch as people playing local nationals of the fictitious country Donovia, try to sell their wares prior to a training lane during the Spouse and Family Box Tour on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 19. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released) (above) A child of the
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment poses for a photo during the 7th grade class fieldtrip to the training area, locally known as The Box.The fieldtrip to the training area helps the family members to understand what their service members go through on a daily basis during the rotations here. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Denitra T. Halford, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs / Released) (below)
By 1st. Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers of the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment (11th ACR) train
the Total Army Force for war every day, and that hard
charging mentality doesn’t change off-duty. Troopers
work vigorously to make sure they provide the best
training, then play hard once that mission has been
accomplished. This was the mindset of Chief Warrant
Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez of the 11th ACR as he
rode his dirt bike on a motorcross track in Silver
Lakes, Calif. The 29 year veteran rider was warming
up with a few jumps when the inevitable happened;
he crashed.
“I was doing a warm up jump, known as a
triple,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez of
Maintenance Troop. “But I didn’t calculate my speed
right and hit the backside of a landing.”
The accident resulted in two broken ankles, a
broken wrist and broken nose, but the damage could
have been much worse. Chief Warrant Officer 2
Martinez did everything right safety wise.
One safeguard in particular, the wearing all
of his Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), saved
his life. Much of his riding gear was damaged beyond
repair as a result of hitting the ground head first.
“PPE is the last barrier of defense between you and
the ground,” said Salvador D. Adame, the 11th ACR
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez flies through the air after launching off a jump. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez is assigned to Maintenance Troop, Regimental Sustainment Squadron of the 11th Armored Cavalry
Regiment. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released)
Gear Up- PPE Saves the Day
Safety and Occupational Health Manager. “The Army
has three parts to its motorcycle safety program:
education, enforcement, and equipment.”
It was his equipment that saved the day for
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Martinez, but that is only
one of the aspects of motorcycle safety. Army posts
offer all-terrain vehicle and dirt bike riding course
several times a year. They also conduct safety-check
rides through the Motorcycle Mentorship Program
to reinforce riding skills and inspect bikes for short
comings. These efforts aim to reduce the amount
of motorcycle related accidents and increase safety
awareness.
While his injuries were serious, Chief
Warrant Officer 2 Martinez was wearing his helmet,
chest protector, gloves, goggles, riding pants, knee
protectors, shin protectors and boots. As a result of
taking safety precautions, PPE saved his life.
“Due to the nature of our mission and being
out in the middle of the desert, we take
safety precautions extra serious here,” said Col. John
L. Ward, Commander of the 11th ACR.
The 11th ACR earned the 2013 Secretary of
the Army and Chief of Staff ’s Army Award for Safety
Excellence.
The helmet Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez was wearing during his accident. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released) (left) Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin E. Martinez after surgery at the
hospital for his injuries. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment/Released) (right)
King of Battle: The 1-144 Field
Artillery Rocks the NTCBy 1st Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald
Fort Irwin, Calif. – In May an unstoppable force returned to fight with the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) at Fort Irwin, the King of Battle. During a decisive action rotation against 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, the 1-144 Field Artillery (FA) “Mustangs” took to the field with their active counterparts in the 11th ACR. Supporting 1-11 ACR “Ironhorse,” the Mustangs put their guns to good use, reaching out and causing havoc amongst the 2nd Brigade.
“The training and preparation we did before we went out to the box prepared us to be successful during the rotation,” said Sgt. Steve Eckenrod, a cannon crew member from Las Vegas, NV who works as a project manager for an electric company.
Working for the first time in support of the 11th ACR during rotational operations was a unique experience for the Soldiers of the 1-144. While the unit frequents Fort Irwin for live fire exercises, it quickly discovered that working in a replicated combat setting required a wholly different skill set. Using the M109 Paladin platform for fires, the 1-144 were quickly able to dust-off the cobwebs and engage targets ranging from dismounted infantry, armored vehicles, and opposing artillery; all while avoiding counter-fires.
“The experience of troubleshooting and on the spot corrections brought everyone
together to work as a team,” said Sgt. 1st Class David Fernandez, the Smoke Platoon Sergeant from Los Angeles, California who works as a Field Supervisor for the water department in the city of Monterey Park, CA. “Coming to Fort Irwin to shoot, move and communicate is something that as a guard force, we don’t train in very often. Being able to utilize those skills was invaluable.”
While it is the purpose of the National Training Center to prepare units for war, for the Soldiers of the 1-144, there is another reason why they come to train. As one of the few units in the Army that has Active and National Guard components, the 11th ACR holds a special place in the heart of its National Guard members. Wearing the Blackhorse patch is a symbol of pride, and for them it means that they are an integral part of the 11th ACR family.
“I’ve been with two other National Guard units, and with them I felt like we were by ourselves,” said 1st Lt. Clifford Roland, an Executive Officer from Fresno, CA who works as an assistant loss prevention manager. “It feels amazing to have the Regiment’s full support; it is both the support we get and the history of the unit that set the Blackhorse apart.”
With the support of the 1-144, the 11th ACR continues to train rotational units for war. Utilizing all available assets at their disposal, the Regiment will continue to give the best fight the Army has to offer, bringing the King of Battle to the RTU’s doorstep.
Troopers with the 1-144 Field Artillery, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment conducts a convey during the 14-07 Rotation on Fort Irwin, Calif., May 25. This was part of the National Guard unit’s two-week annual training. (U.S.
Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)
Troopers with the 1-144 Field Artillery,
11th Armored Cavalry Regiment
fires a volley of simulated rounds during the 14-07 Rotation on Fort
Irwin, Calif., May 28. This was part of the National Guard
unit’s two-week annual training.
(U.S. Army photo by 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment / Released)
Blackhorse takes on MasterChef
Brigadier General Theodore Martin, Fort Irwin Commander and Col. John L. Ward, Commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, discuss the food served to them
by contestants of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’, during the filming of the show’s season premier, at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment,
Public Affairs)
Blackhorse takes on MasterChef
Story by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
Photos by Sgt. Erik A. Thurman
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers of the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment were featured in an
episode of MasterChef here Feb. 3, which aired June
9onFox.
Twenty contestants from the show
participatedintheseason’sfirstteamchallenge;feed
500 Soldiers, the largest number of diners the show
has fed.
Priortotheteamsseeingthefieldkitchen,
they were convoyed through the National Training
Center’s combat training area where Blackhorse
troopers defended the contestants from improvised
explosive devices and insurgents attacking from all
directions.
After the training lane, the two teams created
separate meals for the Soldiers; grilled pork chops
and barbecued chicken breast.
“The teams were relatively fast in their
production, especially when you consider the
pressure and disorientation which they had gone
through,” said Spc. Zachary W. Tredo, a training
room clerk for B Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th ACR. “I
went to culinary school before joining the Military
and could relate to the pressure they were feeling
from the time crunch.”
When the time limit was reached, dozens
of tanks, a couple of helicopters, and 500 Soldiers
swarmed the cooking area in preparation for the meal
to come.
“When everyone was converging on the
contestants, it was overwhelming,” said Spc. Harold
L. Braynon, a communications specialist with
B Troop, 1/11 ACR. “The detailed planning and
execution was interesting to watch.”
As the time came to vote for the winner of
the challenge, the Soldiers made a formation in front
of the team who’s food they preferred.
“When I gave the command to fall-in,
severalSoldiersrushedtomysideofthefield,”said
Staff Sgt. Casey M. Mobley, the Blue Teams Non-
CommissionedOfficer-in-Charge.“Eventhoughthe
red team won in the end, I still had a fun time and
believe that the Blue Team did better.”
Fox Broadcasting Company worked with
Fort Irwin for this event and the “Fox in the Box”
Thanksgiving event last year in support of the
Military and in an effort to boost morale.
“Blackhorse provided a majority of the
Soldiers for the dining and voting portion of the
challenge as well as providing the operational
environment for the shoot,” said Col. John L. Ward,
the Commander of the 11th ACR. “I believe that the
Soldiers were excited that the show recognized their
efforts and contributions as we serve at this isolated
installation.”
Gordon Ramsey, host of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’; shouts at cast members as they strug-gle to feed nearly 500 Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during the filming of the show’s show’s season premier, at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by
U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs)
Troopers of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment evaluate food served to them by contestants of the FOX television series ‘MasterChef ’, during the filming of the show’s season premier, at the National Training
Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., February 4, 2014. (Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. Erik Thurman, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs)
By 1st Lt. Evan M. FitzGerald
Fort Irwin, Calif. – In the 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment (11th
ACR) at Fort Irwin, tradition and history
are held in the highest regard. One such
tradition is the Spur Ride; a Cavalry-
specific esprit de corps event undertaken
by Armor units of the U.S. Army as a
rite of passage for their Soldiers. Though
focused on the history and principles
of the Cavalry, any Soldier in an Armor
or Cavalry unit can participate. For the
Regimental Support Squadron (RSS) of
the 11th ACR, the tradition of the Spur
Ride continues, giving Troopers a chance
to earn their silver spurs.
Troopers of the Regimental Support Squadron do push-ups during the RSS Spur Ride. (Photo by Spc. Jacob Bayles, Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 5, 2014)
An Army Cavalry Tradition:
The RSS Spur Ride
Before those silver spurs are earned,
spur candidates are known as shave-tails.
This concept comes from the days of horse
cavalry. New Troopers who arrived at
their assignments were given a horse with
a shaved tail. This was to let others know
to give extra space to the rider who was
still learning to ride. Only after being able
to demonstrate their abilities were they
allowed to let the horse’s tail grow out and
wear spurs.
“I liked how it was made unique
to the 11th ACR,” said 1st Sgt. Jamie
Brannan, the Vanguard Military
Intelligence Company First Sergeant
from the RSS and Binghamton, New York
1st Sgt. Jamie Brannan of the Military Intelligence Company (MICO), of the Regimental Support
Squadron, 11 ACR sits on a horse as she becomes a Spur Holder. (Photo by 1st Lt. Evan FitzGerald,
Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014)
Troopers of the Regimental Support Squadron crawl along the ground with their mascot during the RSS Spur Ride. (Photo by Spc. Jacob Bayles, Regimental
Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, May. 5, 2014)
native. “I knew about some of the
events, but I didn’t know that I
was going to be asked to saddle a
Troopers of the Regimental
Support Squadron, 11 ACR in the
front leaning rest after earning their silver spurs. (Photo
by 1st Lt. Evan FitzGerald, Regimental
Support Squadron, 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014
horse.”
During the Spur Ride, shave-tails
are broken down into teams of four to
seven, to demonstrate their abilities
to perform numerous Cavalry related
tasks. One such task in the 11th ACR is
saddling a horse. Long marches, physical
fitness tests, obstacles courses, causality
care, radio etiquette and weapon skills
are just a few of the areas in which shave-
tails must prove their worth. While some
events are completed at the individual
level, a majority are team events. The
most important event is the Spur board:
a test of both team and individual resolve
and knowledge of 11th ACR and Cavalry
history and traditions.
“The board was surprising, because
no one knew what to really expect,”
said Maj. Antoine Rhodes, the 11th
ACR Support Operations Officer from
Compton, California. “You do all these
events, but the board is the make or
break part. We had to stay together to be
successful.”
Staying together is the core concept
Lt. Col. Bart Herndon, the 11 ACR Regimental Chaplain gives a
word of thanks and congratulations to
all the Spur Holders who
earned their Spurs during the RSS
Spur Ride. (Photo by 1st Lt. Evan
FitzGerald, Regimental
Support Squadron, 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment, May. 6, 2014)
of the Spur Ride, with many of the events
requiring team members to put their
trust in one another to accomplish tasks.
During the ride, no shave-tails are allowed
to wear any visible rank. This equality
results in Soldiers of all ranks working
together without any knowledge of
hierarchy to get the job done. A spirit of
camaraderie is formed as shave-tail team
members quickly learn that they need to
rely on each other to be successful.
“We would keep our spirits up by
telling jokes to one another to keep our
minds off the painful parts,” said Spc.
Matthew Stevenson, a Signal Support
Systems Specialist for the RSS from San
Antonio, Texas. “But no matter how hard
it got, the task was always overcome with
teamwork.”
After completing the Spur Ride,
which often lasts more than 24 straight
hours, shave-tails become spur holders.
In push-up position with their feet on
hay bales, silver spurs are put on Army
boots, a visual representation of a change
in status. The new spur holders are invited
to take part in future rides, acting as
team guides or task leaders. Twice a year
the RSS conducts a Spur Ride, fostering
teamwork, building pride and recounting
the history and traditions of the 11th ACR
and U.S. Cavalry.
Story by Karen Svea JohnsonPhotos by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom
LAS VEGAS – During the 1st week of March, the giant video display coaxing people off Interstate
15 to visit the South Point Casino looked like others along the highway and the Strip, flashing ads for restaurants and loose slots and nightly entertainment alternating with giant photos of NASCAR heroes suited up for the big weekend at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. But one image was sure to catch the eye of even the most ad-weary visitor: film of horse-mounted exercises unspooled under an invitation to Cavalry Days, advertising a meet-and-greet at noon followed by a presentation at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7.
Was this some historical reenactment? A test-run of the casino’s newest entertainment offering? A fantasy camp for horse-soldier wannabes? Nope, this was the real deal. The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR) from the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., includes one of four remaining Cavalry units in the U.S. Military. Its members were at the South Point Arena to keep history alive, promote and recruit for the Army – and, when the day was over, to celebrate the year’s achievements at their annual ball.
Although horse-mounted units have not been part of battle since the early 20th century, contemporary Cavalry units still serve an important role in the military. The 11th ACRs Horse
Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment participates in the Cavalry Days at the South Point Area and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate
display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
U.S. Cavalry Advancing the Tradition
Detachment states its mission on its website: The Fort Irwin 11th Cavalry Regiment Mounted Color Guard performs at official ceremonies, unofficial functions and regional community events, is a living and historically accurate depiction of the mounted Cavalry Soldier and preserves the Regiment’s heritage in order to provide a regional representation of the 11th CR, Fort Irwin, and the United States Army, promote goodwill in community relations, support Army recruiting and community outreach objectives. The event on March 7 met all those objectives. Dozens of people of all ages streamed down the corridors that lead from the casino, past the hotel entrance, and into the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center. Currently under expansion, the center now houses an impressive 1,200 climate-
controlled stalls and an arena that plays host to some unique events. Sgt. Wyckoff and his mount were 1st into the arena for the high-noon meet-and-greet. Although the arena was dimly lit for folks hoping to take pictures, the lights shining off white walls and red seating, and the echoes of excited spectators, seemed to surprise the pair, so accustomed to their Mojave Desert home. But they had work to do, and set to it like the Soldiers they are. As more horses and cavalry members entered the arena, the civilians who had filled the stands flooded the arena, obviously thrilled to get up close and personal with the mounts. The crowd was exuberant, to say the least. At 1st, babies were handed over to Soldiers who placed
Spectators of the Cavalry Days event held at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center give a standing ovation to the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Horse Detachment March 7. The Horse Det. recreated a histor-ically accurate display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th
Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
them atop regulation U.S. saddles on Army-trained steeds so proud parents could snap photos. Not to be outdone, teenagers started scrambling into stirrups
Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment trot around the arena at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate display of
mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released)
for their own photo ops. Then came adults who hadn’t been on a horse in 15 years… and 40 pounds. And, finally, came the novices, who had seen how calmly the horses had submitted to all the earlier indignities and decided to dish out some of their own.
This might not have been an everyday task, but there horses have to be ready for anything, at any time. The Soldiers and their mounts are part of the National Training Center’s Opposing Force and as such undergo rigorous training to meet challenges calmly and quickly.
In a time of tight budgets, the 11th ACR can’t afford to buy or even breed horses for the program. “This one’s a mustang.” Sgt. Wyckoff said at the meet-and-greet. “They’re all different types from all different backgrounds.” It’s an all-volunteer Army, too, so Cavalry recruits are also from a wide range of backgrounds. Wyckoff, who is a Sacramento native, said, “I had zero experience, but I was always interested in horses. So when I learned about this, I decided it was the unit for me.” Each cavalry recruit partners with his or her horse for two years, and then moves to a new discipline. The horses, however, remain with the Regiment and are used to break in new recruits who arrive at Fort Irwin.
Lt. Col. Scott McFarland, a Squadron
Troopers with the Horse Detachment, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment charge across the arena at the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, March 7. The Horse Det. recreates a historically accurate display of mounted Cavalry tactics and skills. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 11th Armored
Cavalry Regiment, Public Affairs / Released
Commander, explained, “We depend on donated horses, exclusively. We learn as much as we can about horses – how gentle are they? How easy to train, to get along with? We have to trust what the owners and trainers tell us, ‘cause we can only be so picky. But when we find the right kind, no matter where they came from, they’ll do what we want.”
After people returned to their seats, the arena was groomed, and then a half-dozen Horse Detachment Troopers and their mounts presented colors. The demonstrations were accompanied by the cowboy songs “I Wanna Be in the Cavalry (If I Must Go off to War)” and “Horse Soldier!” The most excited of the equine performers was a cute little OTTB (off-track Thoroughbred) who shared the spotlight with a couple mustangs and some mixed-breeds.
The demonstrations showcased
Drill and Ceremony, jumping, and saber handling. Obstacles set up around the arena included jumps strung with balloons and fitted with brass rings, targets for the light-saber charges. A couple of the steady mounts charged as their riders fired rifles from their backs, and they hardly turned a hair. A narrator offered some history and explained what services the Horse Detachment provides, helping spectators understand how old supports the new in today’s Army. When the mounted troops left the arena, spectators filed out past a U.S. Army recruitment table. More than a few stopped to pick up literature and talk with Army representatives. Not all will end up in the service – even fewer will serve in the Cavalry – but the Cavalry Days event opened some eyes and, perhaps, some doors.
Fort Irwin Outdoor Recreation hosted its 8th annual Tour de Irwin 41 mile bicycle race, May 10. With a steady head wind at 12 miles per hour, the contestants had to earn each mile. Chief Warrant Officer 4 Matthew T. Gibbs, a Soldier with the Fort Irwin Logistics Support Team, finished1st overall, his wife Warrant Officer 1 Karri A. Gibbs, an 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Ammo Technician, placing 3rd in the women’s event. Capt. Jacob T. Randles also participated in the event, placing 2nd in the
Men’s race.
Capt. Jacob D. Randles11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Engineer
Fort Irwin, Calif. – The 58th Engineers Carpentry Shop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, replaced
a single memorial at Wickam Park, located on the corner of B Avenue and 5th Street, which paid homage to 21 Troopers lost during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
InAugust2013,aflashfloodracedthrough
the National Training Center (NTC) and damaged the memorial. Originally, the memorial was comprised of plantedtrees;eachwithaplaqueaffixedtoastone.Betweenthefloodandtheharshdesertenvironmentthe stones and plaques were in poor shape.
“It was an honor to design and construct the memorials for the park,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph Pritchard, an engineer with the Carpentry Shop. “There is a part of me that cries for fallen comrades that lose their life for the greater cause.
Wickam Park Repaired
Staff Sgt. Prichard, a Regimental Engineer with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, works a cement mixer in preparations of creating a post for the new memorial for the Fallen Blackhorse Troopers of Operation Iraqi Free-dom on Fort Irwin, Calif. This memorial is to honor the Troopers who have paid the ultimate price on the battle-
field for their country. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment)
The opportunity to be a part of this project was a humbling experience.”
The new displays are mounted on the stands. Several designs were developed and vetted before the decision was made to construct a wooden plaque protected from the elements by wooden framed plexi-glass.
The engineers ran into some obstacles that slowed the project down. The main challenges were the procurement of material and obtaining permissions from the Department of Public Works. The engineers completed the restoration, all while supporting NTC Community Relations projects, constructing museum exhibits; building displays for on-post organizations; and providing NTC training support.
By March 28, the memorial project was
completed and the engineers were able to take a step back and admire their handiwork; knowing that once again the 21 Troopers who gave their lives in service to this country had the memorial they deserved.
The engineers saw the greater purpose in what they accomplished. Staff Sgt. Hector Guevara explained, “I feel honored to recognize those who have given their lives for a country that offers freedom throughout the world. To be a part of this project brought great pride and joy in recognizing thosewhomadethegreatestsacrifice.”
The engineers who dedicated themselves to the project were: Staff Sgt. Hector Guevara, Staff Sgt. Joseph Pritchard, Sgt. Joseph Minton, and Sgt. Steven Butler.
A Regimental Engineer with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment uses a drilling attachment to create holes for the plaque posts for the Fallen Blackhorse Troopers of Operation Iraqi Freedom Memorial on Fort Irwin, Calif.
This memorial is to honor the Troopers who have paid the ultimate price on the battlefield for their country. (U.S. Army photo by 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment)