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Page 1: August Blackhawk Newsletter

Inside this issue:

HHT 3

Arikara 5

Bear 7

Comanche 9

Mohave 11

Redhawk 20

Family Readiness 21

Chaplain 22

ATTACHED UNITS

War Hammer 13

Centurion 15

Eagle 17

Glacier 19

Team July has been an incredible month for Combined Task Force BlackHawk. As we have moved into the Ramazan period, the Squadron has begun to shift its focus from enabling the Afghan Uniformed Police through training and mission sup-port, to one of overwatch as they con-duct their operations to secure Kanda-har. There's an old metaphor that seems to highlight how we have approach the mission here in Afghanistan: "Give me a fish, and I eat for a day. Teach me to fish, and I eat for life." In the case of our Afghan partners, we have move from 'giving them the fish', to 'teaching them to fish', and now we are 'watching them fish'... gently guiding to make sure they don't starve. Our shift to overwatch, 'watching them fish', signifies the in-credible progress made here in Kanda-har. With that shift within the Task Force and the greater Lancer Brigade, the Squadron begins to assume a much more traditional role as an economy of force providing the Lancer Brigade with options. Continued on the next page.

BLACKHAWK COMMAND UPDATE Special points of interest:

Arikara Troop Transfer of

Authority, p.5

Bear Troop Change of

Command, p.7

Family Resources, p. 21

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

LTC Patrick Michaelis

HAWK 6

CSM Daniel Neary

HAWK 7

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Arikara Troop recently reported for duty to TF Steel, our Artillery Battalion. We will soon see Police Mentorship Training become the coin of the realm with our MP Companies under the watchful eye of our sister Battalion and teammate in Kan-dahar City,503rd MP Battalion (Ripcord). It will prove to be an exciting time and one that requires flawless execution. The CSM and I are proud to report we are ready, willing, and able. Since our last update we have had some significant leader changes within the Task Force. Captain Brett Gambacorta, commander of Team HellRider, created an incredible team of teams which provided truly unique capabilities to the Squad-ron and the Brigade. He will be replaced by the equally capable Captain Tyler Patter-son out of 2-1 Infantry. Captain Paul Tanghe, the former commander of Bear Troop, responsible for a historically contentious seam within Kandahar City, gave the B Troop Guidon to Captain Terron Wharton. Everyone of these fine officers are exam-ples of the Values which make our Army great. My congratulations to the families and the incredible work done on behalf of our FRG volunteers. We get incredible reports and good news stories of families taking advantage of the opportunities under the Family Covenant, and the social event volunteers working tirelessly to bring the BlackHawk family together. Thank you again for all that you do. You make us all very proud over here! v/r BlackHawk 6 and 7

BLACKHAWK COMMAND UPDATE CONT.

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Page 3: August Blackhawk Newsletter

Arikara Troop recently reported for duty to TF Steel, our Artillery Battalion. We will soon see Police Mentorship Training become the coin of the realm with our MP Companies under the watchful eye of our sister Battalion and teammate in Kan-dahar City,503rd MP Battalion (Ripcord). It will prove to be an exciting time and one that requires flawless execution. The CSM and I are proud to report we are ready, willing, and able. Since our last update we have had some significant leader changes within the Task Force. Captain Brett Gambacorta, commander of Team HellRider, created an incredible team of teams which provided truly unique capabilities to the Squad-ron and the Brigade. He will be replaced by the equally capable Captain Tyler Patter-son out of 2-1 Infantry. Captain Paul Tanghe, the former commander of Bear Troop, responsible for a historically contentious seam within Kandahar City, gave the B Troop Guidon to Captain Terron Wharton. Everyone of these fine officers are exam-ples of the Values which make our Army great. My congratulations to the families and the incredible work done on behalf of our FRG volunteers. We get incredible reports and good news stories of families taking advantage of the opportunities under the Family Covenant, and the social event volunteers working tirelessly to bring the BlackHawk family together. Thank you again for all that you do. You make us all very proud over here! v/r BlackHawk 6 and 7

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

HELL RIDER FAMILIES,

Since the last newsletter, Team Hell Rider has gone through

several major transitions. We have seen the departure of Captain Brett Gambacorta

due to injury. The day before CPT Gambacorta flew out of country, the troop got

the chance to express its appreciation and thanks for all the hard work he has done

for Team Hell Rider in a very moving ceremony . The incoming commander, CPT Ty-

ler Patterson has arrived and has begun to make the transition into the Squadron

Family. He should be a good addition, arriving to us from a successful 18 month

command of Alpha Company, 2-1 Infantry. Even as transition occurs both within

Hell Rider Troop and the Squadron, we remain battle ready and mission focused.

Our soldiers continue to support every piece of tactical infrastructure within the

Task Force and 1SG and I have nothing but praise for the way our soldiers have car-

ried out their duties.

The highlight of this past month was the patching ceremony. This ceremony,

steeped in army tradition, involves the awarding of the Unit Combat Patch to all task

force soldiers for serving their nation deployed in a time of war. The ceremony be-

gan at Camp Nathan Smith with LTC Michaelis, CSM Neary, CPT Gambcorta and 1SG

Stewart patching every soldier in the Task Force situated on CNS. This was followed

by a whirlwind day of traveling as the commander and 1SG patched every soldier in

Hellrider troop no matter the size or distance of the installation from Camp Nathan

Smith. What made the day even more special was its coinciding with the 4th of July

celebrations that all bases celebrated in little ways all over the Task Force area of op-

erations.

The fight remains tough, especially as the temperatures increase and Rama-

zan (the Islamic month of prayer) comes into full swing. However, our troopers re-

main dedicated to mission success and the long term goal of peace and security in

Kandahar City and Afghanistan. Our morale remains high, and we thank everyone

on the homefront for the prayers and well wishes you give us. The FaceBook page is

continually updated by 1SG Stewart, the link is below:

http://www.facebook.com/HellRiderTroop

Thank you for your continued support!

-Hell Rider 5

HELL FOLLOWS!

HELL RIDER UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

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HELL RIDER UPDATE

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Greetings from Afghanistan to the families of Arikara Troop and the Blackhawk

Squadron! We hope this newsletter finds you in good spirits and enjoying the

summer festivities. The month of July has brought a number of changes and mis-

sion success to Arikara troop and the people of Malajat, Afghanistan. We have continued our partnership

with our police sub-stations and their progression has been incredible. We find ourselves in a period of

transition that has allowed our Afghan police force to take ownership of their district and provide capable

security gains that do no rely solely on US forces. This has come with some degree of difficulty, but the

soldiers of Arikara Troop have met this challenge head on and continue to strive for excellence. The troop

is also in a period of transition, looking to relocate our headquarters and operate in the northern Kanda-

har area, away from the city. This area requires some much needed help for the local populace and we are

looking forward to making a difference. We will also welcome in a new platoon to our formation coming

from Bear troop under the leadership of 1LT John Kottlowski, and SFC Conrad Vasquez. They have been

selected to join our ranks as we move north and assume responsibility of a new mission in Shah Wali Kot,

Kandahar. This month also gives us the opportunity to learn about the Muslim holiday “Ramadan”, as our

Afghan partners celebrate their religion. Ramadan is a month of fasting intended to teach Muslims about

patience, humility, and spirituality. This time also gives us a chance to better know and understand our

partners, which will help to strengthen our working relationships. Again, I would like to thank you for your

support as we strive for mission success, and end one chapter of our deployment as we open another.

“Horns Up Front!”

1SG’s Corner

To all the friends and family of Arikara Troop and the Blackhawk Squadron, your support is truly

inspiring. The month of July has proven to be our busiest so far in the way of training and transition. We

continue to gain a vast knowledge of systems and equipment that will help us accomplish our mission

with great success. Our Soldiers have worked diligently and put forth tireless effort at learning and grow-

ing daily both as Soldiers, and as mentors to our Afghan partners. We conducted a “patch ceremony” on

the 4th of July to place the 2nd Infantry Division combat patch on the right sleeve of our troopers, followed

by a BBQ and plenty of cold “near” beer. SPC Hinojosa, SPC Klipp and SSG Rock re-enlisted for another

tour of service with our great Army and their expertise will definitely be utilized and appreciated by our

organization. Congratulations to all three Soldiers and to their families on their continued commitment to

our nation. Thank you again for all your support and I hope this newsletter finds all of our friends and fam-

ily in good health and high spirits.

From all the soldiers of Arikara, thank you for your unwavering support and well wishes that are sent our

way. We appreciate all you do, and the sacrifices you have made in order to support us and our mission!

“HORNS UP FRONT!" CPT Anthony L. Williams 1SG Rennes G. Weimer Arikara 6 Arikara 7

ARIKARA UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Contact the FRG:

[email protected]

Walk to Afghanistan Miles:

3,070

FRG Corner

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ARIKARA UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

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Greeting to the Bear Troop Family! It has been a busy month at Bear

Troop, full of changes and transitions. On August 1 we said goodbye to CPT Paul Tanghe after 19 months of

command and I took over as Bear 6. CPT Tanghe is heading to begin grad school at the University of Denver

and then off to be a professor at West Point in the Social Sciences department. Paul, thank you for building

and leading a team that we can be proud of, and thank you for all you taught me during our transition. We

also had several of our Troopers make transitions of their own. SPC Mosher and SPC Smith have both transi-

tioned to the roles and responsibilities of NCOs, with SPC Mosher being promoted to SGT and SPC Smith per-

forming flawlessly at the promotion board and earning the rank of CPL until he makes SGT. The final promo-

tion, was one of our medics, PFC Ramierez being promoted to the rank of SPC. Great job, gentlemen! In addi-

tion to a change of command and promotions, we also had several Troopers reenlist to stay in the fight, with

SSG Benson, SGT Small, and SGT Guidice deciding to continue their commitment to serve their country. Fi-

nally, in addition to a new commander, we also got a new Executive Officer, 1LT Alex Saul, formerly a Platoon

Leader in Comanche Troop. The final transition we had was the departure of White PLT, as 1LT Kottlowski, SF

C Vasquez, and their men went to join Arikara Troop as Arikara moves up north to fall under 2-17 FA. Good

luck and God Bless, gentlemen! Finally, before I go, I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is CPT Terron

O. Wharton, and I've been with the SQDN since January 2011 where I was serving

as the planner on staff. My previous experiences include two tours in Iraq with 2nd

Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. While in 1st CAV I served time as a

tank platoon leader, tank company executive officer, and a battalion logistics offi-

cer. I am currently engaged to Ms. Jeniece Simmons, a Tacoma native and National

Guardsman. Thank you for all of the love and support you continue to give our

Troopers. Three months down and still going strong!

v/r,

Terron Wharton

CPT, Commanding

Excerpt From CPT Tanghe’s Farewell Speech

Equally, to transfer my duties here to Captain Wharton, a most capable officer dedicated to continuing the excellence of Bear Troop, makes it easier to walk away. And most importantly, I can personally witness that where others see chal-lenges, this is a team that seeks and realizes opportunities as protectors, defend-ers, and men and women of honor. An American poet from the birthplace of our Armor branch in Kentucky wrote, “True harvests no mere intent may reap.” I am filled with respect and gratitude for every man, woman, and family whose service and sacrifices have reaped the true harvests of this Troop. Again, it has been the greatest of honors to serve here, to witness the discipline and honor of these Troopers, and to know firsthand the skill and courage of all of you who constitute the Bear Troop community. On the eve of this deployment, that same poet wrote to me that, “Truth keeps us though we do not know it.” These are my final mo-ments with this command. This Troop and her history will shortly become the care of another captain. To him and your posterity will we commit our future. You will continue the mission we have begun. May Truth and Providence keep this Troop, her men and her families, her partners, and the people they serve as you continue this great endeavor to courageously and faithfully Seize the High Ground.

BEAR TROOP UPDATE

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Contact the FRG:

[email protected]

Bear Troop FaceBook:

www.facebook.com/

bear.troop

Adopt a Bear Program:

An opportunity to support a

Bear Troop soldier, selected at

random, by writing letters and

sending packages. For more

information, see the Bear

Troop FaceBook page (above),

or contact the FRG.

New Bears:

SPC Joseph and Mrs. Maria

Parnass welcomed

Marily Conchita Parnass

into this world,

2:23 on May 14th, 2012

3 lbs 10 oz

PFC Robby and Mrs. Danetta

Largmann welcomed

Elana Elizabeth Betty

Marie Largmann into this

world,

12:41 AM on June 4th, 2012

7 lbs 8oz

19 1/2 in. long

Walk to Afghanistan Miles:

3,578

FRG Corner

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BEAR UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

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COMANCHE UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Comanche friends and families, we hope you’re enjoying the

summer and doing well. We are going over ninety days in theater

and your support for our Troopers has been invaluable. The FRG

continues to strive to get all of our families the information they need during this

tough time to make life easier at home.

Since the 1 July 2012 “Afghans in the Lead” day, our AUP have maintained the

gains that they have made and have created considerable positive momentum. We

have also moved into the Muslim holy month of Ramadan where we have taken ap-

propriate steps in order to respect the culture of the local people and our partnered

police. Our police partners continue to make strides to protect the local populace

and secure their neighborhoods. We see improvement in our daily interactions with

our partners and our local communities where we patrol.

Comanche Troop continues to make strides across all lines of effort and contin-

ues to work in the lead for the Blackhawk Squadron. Over the last month our Afghan

partners led our local governance shura, security shura, and a shura to un-embed

from one of our outposts, conducted on 28 June 2012. Comanche was the first

Troop or Company size element within the Squadron to conduct this type of opera-

tion and continues to lead the way.

Since the last newsletter, we held our patch ceremony. The troop has done an

outstanding job since deployment and we have a lot to be proud of in our Troopers.

We especially thank our Comanche families and FRG for being there for us in our

time of need. The Soldiers appreciate any chance they can get to communicate with

you and any letters or packages they receive. We are also

blessed to have such an awesome support group. I encourage

that if you have any questions please contact the FRG. If they

can’t answer your question they will certainly point you in the

direction of someone who can. Thank you for your prayers

and support. One Step Ahead!

Contact the FRG: [email protected]

Comanche FaceBook Page: www.facebook.com/ComancheTroop8.1CAV “Like” our page to receive up-dates from the Commander and to view pictures of the Troop.

FRG Corner

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COMANCHE UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

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Soldiers, Families, and Friends of the 572nd Military Intelligence Company, As July comes to a close, it seems the time is going by faster for the soldiers of Mo-

jave Company. While it seems like we only just left JBLM and took over the mission in Afghanistan, it is hard to believe we are nearly halfway through the deployment. Some are already over the hurdle and are on the downhill. The coming months will certainly be a busy one as we continue to support com-bat operations here in Kandahar Province and begin preparations for coming home. July was our busiest month yet. The month started off with 4th of July celebrations, which in-cluded several promotions and re-enlistments for the company. Also, the company took part in the Patch Ceremony here at Camp Nathan Smith and various other locations across Kandahar. The Squad-ron Command Group was able to make it to many of these locations to award Soldiers the Combat Patch of the 2nd Infantry Division. This is a symbolic event for many Soldiers, whether they have de-ployed before or not. Our wearing of the 2ID patch places us alongside units who have come before us, from the Korean War to Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Your soldiers are now a part of history and will forever be associated with this legacy. The leadership continues to make its way to the various locations our soldiers are at. During our visits we check on the living and work conditions, make sure they have everything they need to complete their mission, and live as comfortable as possible. We have been able to visit all bases our Soldiers are at and can say that the units they work for have nothing but the best to say about their work ethic and contribution to the mission. They have singled out a number of our Soldiers on numer-ous occasions and view them as much a part of their team as their own soldiers. The many images of family and friends back home participating in FRG events continue to inspire everyone here. During these long deploy-ments the value of family and friendships can never be understated. The FRG has been contributing countless hours towards the soldiers of Mojave and member and nonmember alike back at JBLM. This is by far the strongest and most dedicated FRG I have worked with throughout three deployments, and I could never thank them enough for all of their hard work. As we enter August, the temperatures will finally begin to cool and we will be getting closer to our goal. This goal is to redeploy back to the United States safely knowing we have taken part in a mission that has main-tained the freedom and security of our loved ones back home as well as for the Afghan population. The amount of effort, hard work, and sacrifice which takes places on a daily basis can never be fully stated, but the results will speak for themselves as a safe and secured Afghanistan. Sincerely, JOSHUA M. BAL CPT, MI Commanding

MOJAVE UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Contact the FRG: [email protected]

MICO FaceBook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/572-MICO-FRG/206715606061075

Walk to Afghanistan

Miles: 8,891 Total families participating: 21

Upcoming Events 21 June - details to come at a later date

FRG Corner

Page 12: August Blackhawk Newsletter

MOHAVE UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

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WAR HAMMER UPDATE Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Hello again to all Blackhawk and War

Hammer friends and family,

As most of you already know, Team War Hammer has

been geographically dispersed for the most part of the deploy-

ment. During this last month, we have been slowly reconsoli-

dating and expect to all be back together in the near future.

This transition will improve communications within the Com-

pany and afford us more opportunities to build esprit de corps

within our ranks. It is reassuring to know that we will soon be back together as a

Company “family” as we also get one month closer to coming home to you.

Over the course of the last month we have also experienced great change

within the Company: nine War Hammer Soldiers have been promoted. Congratu-

lations to those Soldiers and their families, it was well deserved and keep up the

good work.

Our Facebook page has started to blossom as we continue to receive words of encouragement from families and loved ones. It has also provided a good plat-form for team War Hammer to provide you with some of our experiences from Af-ghanistan and share some of our pictures with you. I will be making a concerted effort over the course of the next month to consolidate photos and get them posted to the page. Please visit our page at http://www.facebook.com/groups/303rdmpco/ . With the 303D transition to TF Ripcord, I would like to take this opportunity

to thank team Blackhawk for making the 303D MP Co feel part of the team. It has

been a pleasure working with the Squadron and we look forward to a lasting rela-

tionship.

SADDLE UP!!!!

CPT Travis Gilbert

Warhammer 6 “““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Page 14: August Blackhawk Newsletter

WARHAMMER UPDATE

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Page 15: August Blackhawk Newsletter

CENTURION UPDATE

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

The 287th MP Company continues its partnered security/mentorship mission across a broad area of Eastern Kandahar city. As Afghan Uniformed Police con-tinue to take on a larger role in the planning and execution of a greater number

of missions, our maneuver elements are concentrating more on mentorship and ensuring that Afghan personnel in key leadership positions have a solid working knowledge of the training and logistical acqui-sition process. While a total of 3 Squads from the Company have been displaced to conduct SFAT missions, the remaining 4 Squads continue to conduct a wide range of operations throughout sub-districts 3, 5 and 10. This month we’ve conducted Base Defense Operations on 3 separate tactical Infrastructure, disruption patrols in support of the Tranche Ceremonies transferring authority of Kandahar City to ANSF control, heavy equipment escorts to assist with the rebuilding of the Provincial Reserve after recent insurgent attacks, culvert intrusion denial system integrity checks, numerous named operations and extensive mentorship training. 287th in partnership with the AUP have taken part in several named operations this month to dis-rupt insurgent activity, conduct checkpoint operations to stop the flow of arms, explosives and enemy combatants into the battle space, resulting in AUP detention of persons of interest, confiscation of weap-ons, explosives, illicit drugs and discovery of new enemy TTP’s, area recon to identify compounds and persons of interest, biometric enrollment and security of key tactical infrastructure providing a safer op-erational environment for our partnered security forces and the local national population. Atmospherics from local nationals have remained generally supportive towards ISAF throughout our area of operation. Some of the training conducted with the AUP this month has involved evidence based training dealing with crime scene security and preservation, care and handling of evidence and crime scenes. We have seen some improvement recently in ANSF logistics/supply. While the AUP are meeting some resis-tance from higher headquarters in regards to winterization equipment, their weapons, ammo and fuel requests have been addressed adequately which is an improvement from prior months. Our most recent development project is providing support For the Shen Ghazi Baba Shrine/wall renovation project. Apart from the actual renovation of the shrine itself they’re rebuilding the perimeter wall to provide seclusion and help preserve and secure the shrine. With the recent change in sub district managers the project has temporarily been placed on hold. Quality of life continues to improve on COP Shurandam. Along with other recent improvements, our din-ing facility has started serving midnight chow this month which benefits everyone, especially night shift workers and Soldiers returning late from missions. The extreme fitness room was also recently com-pleted. New features include floor mats for combative training, a double end bag and heavy bag. The deck outside the extreme fitness room has a sunshade, additional picnic tables, and the most recent ad-dition was a giant swamp cooler. The 287th MP Company Family Readiness Group continues to conduct monthly meetings to keep family and spouses informed of community activities in and around the Ft Riley area, including sporting events, fund raisers, Centurion T-shirt sales, ACS assistance and general support and team building activi-ties.

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

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CENTURION UPDATE

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EAGLE UPDATE

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Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

To the Eagle Soldiers, Contractors, and Families, This month marks the completion of our second month of the mission. In this past month, we have seen the Afghan Na-tional Security Forces formally accept the lead for the security of its citizens, and we have witnessed our counterparts in the Garrison Headquarters demonstrate tangible leadership of subordinate police substa-tions. Our combat advisors and police mentors, both military and civilian, have inspired the Afghans to perform their duties in a pro-fessional manner; I was privileged to learn that our counterpart Afghan commander uses our personal example to illustrate the values of commitment, bravery, and service to his patrolmen. I can think of no higher compliment of our team, that our example alone is inspiring the Afghans to achieve expectations previously considered unattainable by their security forces. Seize the High Ground! LTC Ross Coffey

LTC Coffey

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EAGLE UPDATE

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GLACIER UPDATE

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Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

The month of July provided some interesting adventures for

SFAT KC Mayor. Not only did we conduct our regular meet-

ings with Municipal Staff at City Hall, we had opportunities

to see many projects being conducted around the city.

Schools, water projects, industrial projects, just to name a

few. Progress is happening, quality of life is improving.

Some of these missions proved to be challenge. We did get

to visit the Sara Gundey School, recently refurbished, with

the intent to ensure it was ready to reopen and provide the

youth in Subdistrict 9 with a quality education, and a bright

future.

In an effort to build the capacity of our partners at City Hall,

we have been working to improve the security situation as

well. This has involved receiving 1000 prefilled sandbags,

and emplacing them at guard points around the compound.

And even more good news:

It is with great pleasure that we congratulate SPC Osburn

and his family on the latest addition. Alice Danielle was born

on 15 July. Your adventure is just beginning.

Unfortunately, the only constant that we are guaranteed at

anytime is change. With the NATO-wide drawdown of

forces, the Lancer Brigade area is expanding, and this means

reorganizing units. To us, that means that the 1st Squad, 3rd

Platoon, 303rd MP Company will be released from their mis-

sion with SFAT KC Mayor.

So to 1LT Sale, SSG Underwood and crew, we extend our

thanks and appreciation. We are proud of what you have

contributed, and wish you continued success. Our thoughts

and prayers go with you.

Glacier 7

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BlackHawk Family,

I continue to be impressed by the dedication and joy of our families and FRG volunteers back home. For most of you, it has been 3-4 months since your soldier left, and you are doing an outstanding job of maintaining day to day life. Congratulations—you have all made it through at least one third of this deployment, and before you know it, you’ll be at the half way mark. To all who attended our last Town Hall meeting, thank you for com-ing out to spend an evening with myself, the other spouses, and our com-mand team downrange. It was my pleasure to facilitate the meeting and get many of your questions answered. Going forward, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have more questions. In other news, a group of about 20 soldiers is deploying to join our down-range Troopers for the remainder of the deployment. To them and their families, thank you for your hard work and sacrifice over the coming months. You are greatly appreciated and highly valued as a part of the Blackhawk family. To all of our spouses and parents, please take the time to make sure you are connected to information through the FRGs and that you have all of the important numbers saved in your phone or in convenient location (left column of this page). Here are my recommendations to become better con-nected and educated. Please remember, you are your family’s best and strongest advocate. 1) Get connected with your Troop’s FRG. They are a great group of

spouses ready to be a source of information and help. 2) Visit with the FRSA, Laura Meeks, either in person or over the phone.

She is our full-time resource expert and can point you in the right direc-tion, catch you on past deployment meetings, or give you some starting points for getting educated about the Army.

3) Visit Army Community Services and Waller Hall to learn about most of the family services. For directions, call ACS: 253-967-7166.

4) Attend a Newcomers Orientation or Family Welcome Brief. Call ACS for more information: 253-967-7166.

Redhawk 6 Stephen Schwartz 1LT, MI Commanding

REDHAWK UPDATE

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Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Rear Detachment

1LT Stephen Schwartz Rear Detachment Com-mander (651) 246-2095 Stephen.Schwartz1@ us.army.mil SFC Kirk Alcorn Rear Detachment First Sergeant [email protected] (360) 701-9723 8-1 Cav Staff Duty (253) 966-8307* no longer answered 24/7, only regular business hours Brigade Staff Duty: 253-967-6443 (answered 24/7)

Emergencies Sexual Assault Report-ing/Victim Advocates 253-966-SAFE (7233)

National Suicide Pre-vention 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Army Emergency Relief (AER): 253-976-9852

Page 21: August Blackhawk Newsletter

8-1 Cav Events for August 2012

1) 8-1 Cav Spouse’s Southern Tea Social

Who: 8-1 Cav Spouses (no children unless nursing)

What: Bring your favorite iced tea or finger food and dress for the occasion (sundress, hat,

gloves, etc.)

When: Friday, August 10th from 6-8 PM

Where: Family Resource Center

RSVP: http://new.evite.com/l/CEKOVU64RG

CHILDCARE: Arrange your own CYS Hourly Care: 253-967-2977

*NO ALCOHOL OR PETS ALLOWED

2) Sumner/Puyallup Art & Rhubarb Festival, partners with 2nd Brigade

When: Friday August 3rd 10am-8pm & Saturday August 4th 10am-7pm

What: Music, Microbrew Tastings, Pet Parade, Kid’s Activities, Art, Dance Performances &

more!

3) 2nd BSB Women’s August Self Defense Classes

Who: Women, ages 13+

What: Self-defense tactics and techniques taught by nationally certified RAD instructors

When: 4 Wednesdays—Aug. 8,15,22, & 29th from 5-8PM (12 hours total)

Where: 2nd Brigade Support Battalion, Bldg # 11755 A Street (near A Street and 12th Street

on North Fort).

RSVP: Mrs. Norma Franco, 253-477-2430 or [email protected]

4) Lancer Brigade Family Day

When: Saturday, Sept. 8th, 3-6 PM

What: Food, games, and activities

Interested in volunteering? Contact Amber Anderson at [email protected]

5) Walk to Afghanistan

Did you know you can earn miles by doing any kind of exercise, attending FRG events, getting

good grades, sending care packages, and more? Ask your FRG leader or the FRSA if you would

like a packet that explains the rules and helps you keep track of your miles. Miles are due to

your Troop/Company’s WTA volunteer at the end of each month. 6,767 miles gets you to Af-

ghanistan!

Current totals:

HHT: 7,270

Arikara: 8,179

Bear: 8,378

Comanche: 4,649

MICO: 20,455

FAMILY READINESS UPDATE

8-1 Cav FaceBook Page

www.facebook.com/8SQDN1CAV

Out of Town Link

http://www.emailmeform.com/

builder/form/0zt0Jf1ej80aapyD6Xc

Virtual FRG (vFRG)

www.armyfrg.org

(For registration instructions, ask

your FRG or the FRSA)

Child and Youth Services

www.jblmmwr.com/CYS

253-967-CYSS

BDE Military Family Life Con-

sultant

Mrs. Alexandria Horton

(253) 363-6973

[email protected]

Madigan Child and Family Assis-

tance Center (CAFAC)

253-968-4843

MAMC Annex, Bldg. 9923A

Financial Readiness

253-967-1453

Rear Detachment

Mrs. Laura Meeks

Family Readiness Support Assistant

M-F, 8:30-5, and by appointment

(253) 967-1493

[email protected]

Chaplain CPT Barry Malone

253-651-3069

Staff Duty

(253) 966-8307* Only answered

during regular business hours

BDE Staff Duty:

253-967-6443 (answered 24/7)

Emergencies

Sexual Assault Reporting/Victim

Advocates

253-966-SAFE (7233)

National Suicide Prevention

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Army Emergency Relief (AER):

253-976-9852

“““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”

Volume 1, Issue 3 August 2012

Resource Roundup

Ice Cream Social July 12th, 2012

Page 22: August Blackhawk Newsletter

CHAPPY’S CORNER

Three months down, six to go. I have noticed that as of late that the newness of deployment has worn off. Now the Squadron is starting to settle into a rhythm and routine. This can be good as well as bad. We never want to become complacent. We never want to get to the place that things become so mundane that we lose perspective as to why we are here. That is where our incredible leadership has stepped in. I believe that we have the best of the best look-ing out for our Soldiers. I have seen it firsthand. I have witnessed it during patrols. I have observed it during AAR's. I have been a part of it during our Command and Staff meetings. In all instances our Soldiers have shown a degree of professionalism and integrity. Not only do we do it for the sake of victory, but we also do it for our loved ones back home. We fight for what's right. We fight for our country. We fight for you. We have all come to this place in our lives for various reasons, many paths have brought us here. I have been reflecting recently on my own personal journey that has led me here. God has al-lowed me to be in this place for such a time as this. I don't believe in coincidence. I think everything happens for a reason. I thank God daily that He has allowed me to be a part of this Squadron. I honestly think I have the best job in the Army. I get to go from place to place just to hang out with our Soldiers. It is during those trips that I get to see how much they not only miss you guys, but how much your support strengthens them. I know for myself that when I get a care package or a chance to talk to my wife back home, it makes my time out here that much more bearable. One thing that I would recommend to you back home is to come up with ways to break up the monotony of deployment. My wife and I have some ways we try to do this. One such way is that we do a book study together. We are reading the same book and working through a study together. We also try and have date nights. I have heard of other couples watching the same movie at the same time together. One crea-tive soldier recently told me that he and his wife celebrated fifty days of deployment with the fifty things they would love to do with each other when they get home. Anything you can do to help make these days pass while strengthening your relationships with your loved ones will go a long way. Be blessed! For you have been a blessing to us!! Chappy “““Saddle Up”Saddle Up”Saddle Up”


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