Best Friends
Aaron Buelow Mark Martinez Freddy Juarez John Endres Tom O'Brien
Best Moment
There were several as we were constantly training troops, and when you do, there are plenty of opportunities to have memorable or funny incidents. Mark and Freddy were the class clowns who always brought levity to every situation, no matter how serious we were trying to be. During this mobilization time, John and I took a FA unit to New Jersey to train them before they went to Iraq. Of course, the timing was ludicrous! We went to Ft. Dix in the wintertime, and it was a year of heavy snowfall. The unit was an NG unit out of AZ, and we took them to several feet of snow to train them to go to the desert!!! Talk about idiotic! We couldn't figure out why we didn't take them to Ft. Bliss! Ugh, that's Army training, Sir!
Worst Moment
There were several worst moments also because this 8-year assignment was unaccompanied. My kids were in their middle and high school periods of their lives. Both of them really needed a present father. I wasn't the only one who was experiencing this. We had many parents who were going through the same thing. It was tough for all of us. That sort of made it better, as we had each other's shoulders to cry on.
Chain of Command
Our Chain of Command changed constantly. It all depended on which mission we were on. If we were working out of Mesa, AZ, we would fall under the CoC of the Rear Detachment. If we were in the Ft Bliss, TX training environment, that CoC constantly changed based on what the Army was doing with reconfiguration at that particular moment. Suppose we were on a MAT team, our CoC split. We had the one we had to send our reports to about their subordinate unit's training successes. And we had the one at the training site where the unit was mobilizing. The nice thing about the people I was assigned with in the 2/363rd TSBn was that we were like one big family. Thankfully the Army saw fit to keep us all together during the CoC changes. That consistency created a home team that helped us keep it together mentally and spiritually, at least for me.
Other Memories
Being able to go home, probably more frequently than Army regulations allowed, was another one of the things that made the mobilization a little bit easier. Our primary CoC worked diligently to ensure that we got to rotate back to the Rear D, where we had some semblance of a 9-5 job. In my case, I still lived in a hotel in Mesa, AZ, but I was able to return home every weekend to my family. The Rear D CoC also gave me a lot of 4-day passes so I could have more time with my family. Those opportunities made my deployments a little easier. It also made a difference when it came time to volunteer for another year of mobilization. Those moments at home were the best. Cyndi would move the celebrations of birthdays and other special occasions to the weekends so I could be a part of them. Other times I would go ahead and make the ride home. My immediate leader would let me leave work earlier than usual. That way, I didn't have to fight traffic, and I would get to be home for dinner with the family. That type of leadership made all the difference in the world.
Best Friends
During this period, I was the First Sergeant of the HHC. I split my time between the Rear Detachment in Mesa, AZ, and with our Forward Operations as the Senior Instructor of Phase 1 for the units preparing to deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan. We supported both Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
While I was the First Sergeant of HHC, I was the Top for all our Soldiers assigned to the 2nd of the 363rd Training Support Battalion. I assisted with writing proficient NCOERs, awards, and Counseling Statements. I also oversaw the Weight Control program for the battalion.
Sometimes it was awkward as I was a SFC managing a battalion-level unit. That meant many of the Soldiers I had to correct and supervise were mid-grade officers and senior NCOs, including the CSM, who was a signatory to my NCOER.
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Comments
25 years of honorable service, retirement award in June of 2008.
Description President George W. Bush authorized a partial mobilization of the reserves Sept. 15 for homeland defense and civil support missions in response to the terrorist attacks Sept. 11 at the New York World President George W. Bush authorized a partial mobilization of the reserves Sept. 15 for homeland defense and civil support missions in response to the terrorist attacks Sept. 11 at the New York World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Operation Noble Eagle has become an enduring mission in the years since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, protecting the United States and Canada from airborne aggression. The North American Aerospace Defense Command is bi-national, bringing U.S. and Canadian forces together to provide aerospace warning, aerospace control and maritime warning for the defense of North America.... More
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Description Operation Jump Start was a military operation to aid U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, announced by President George W. Bush in May 2006. The mission entailed the deployment of United States National GuOperation Jump Start was a military operation to aid U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, announced by President George W. Bush in May 2006. The mission entailed the deployment of United States National Guard troops along the Mexico–United States border for purposes of enforcement of border security and construction of a border fence. The rules of deployment were defined in a memorandum of agreement between officials in the Department of Defense and the governors of Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas as well as Mexico.
National Guard members involved in the operation were not involved in law enforcement activities due to the political aspect of the US military on the US/Mexico border. They were supporting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Border Patrol agencies with administrative, observational and intelligence gathering capacities, and civil engineering projects. By temporarily taking over these functions from the USC&BP, they freed up sworn agents to field units.
Military operations with Operation Jump Start were primarily to observe and report. The rules of engagement for the operation was very restrictive and only allowed escalation to lethality when met with an equal amount of force from another. The US military set up entry identification team sites to spot undocumented aliens. Many of the areas of operation were in desolate locations; some locations were so remote that troops were sometimes flown in by UH-60 helicopter.... More
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated... The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated NCO professional development courses. MoreHide
Description
Advanced Non-comissioned Officer Course, Phoenix, AZ Oct 2005.
Description President George W. Bush authorized a partial mobilization of the reserves Sept. 15 for homeland defense and civil support missions in response to the terrorist attacks Sept. 11 at the New York World President George W. Bush authorized a partial mobilization of the reserves Sept. 15 for homeland defense and civil support missions in response to the terrorist attacks Sept. 11 at the New York World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
Operation Noble Eagle has become an enduring mission in the years since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, protecting the United States and Canada from airborne aggression. The North American Aerospace Defense Command is bi-national, bringing U.S. and Canadian forces together to provide aerospace warning, aerospace control and maritime warning for the defense of North America.... More
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Superior Unit Award may be awarded during peacetime for outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission carried out under extraordinary circumstances. The unit must disp... The Superior Unit Award may be awarded during peacetime for outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission carried out under extraordinary circumstances. The unit must display such outstanding devotion and superior performance of exceptionally difficult tasks as to set it apart from and above other units with similar missions. The award is not given for operations of a purely humanitarian nature. MoreHide
Description
Awarded to 363 Regiment, 2 BN. Period Jan 03 to Jan 05. This was my 2nd Award of the ASUA.
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Comments
Assigned to 2/363 Training Support Battalion, 3rd BDE, 91st Infantry Division.
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Comments
I received this award for being mobilized in support of Operation Noble Eagle Jan 2003. This was my 2nd Award.
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exem... The Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal is awarded to personnel in the grade of colonel and below upon completion of four years service since March 3, 1971, with a Reserve Component unit for exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
September 11, 2001 to a date to be announced for service during the War on Terrorism
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Comments
Mobilized under Operation Noble Eagle after Sept 11 terrorist attack to train mobilizing MP's for homeland security missions. This was my 1st Award.
Criteria The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated... The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated NCO professional development courses. MoreHide
Description
Basic Non-comissioned Officer Course Fort McClellan, AL Apr 2001.
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Description Nearly 1,500 US soldiers participated with members of the Kuwaiti armed forces in Exercise Intrinsic Action 98-1. US Central Command's army component and Kuwaiti armed forces participated in Exercise Nearly 1,500 US soldiers participated with members of the Kuwaiti armed forces in Exercise Intrinsic Action 98-1. US Central Command's army component and Kuwaiti armed forces participated in Exercise Intrinsic Action 98-1, scheduled to begin Jan. 20, 1998 and to continue until mid-April 1998. The exercise will involved approximately 1,500 U.S. Army soldiers. The deployment included a battalion task force, combat support units and combat service support units. The task force deployed without equipment and will use prepositioned equipment in Kuwait. More than 1,200 soldiers from Fort Benning's 3rd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division deployed in January 1998 for Exercise INTRINSIC ACTION 98-1. The task force, consisting of two mechanized infantry companies, two tank companies, a field artillery battery and engineer company, trained with units from Kuwait's 35th Brigade after the Ramadan religious period ends on January 28th.... More
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description
Assigned to 615th MP Co, 793 MP BN, 18th MP BDE, V Corps. Started out in Illesheim, Germany with movement to Augsburg, Germany just before deploying to Bosnia-Herzogovina.
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Ca
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Canada, and the Netherlands. CMTC training, conducted at the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA), was the capstone event of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver battalions, field artillery battalions, brigades, brigade slices, and division cavalry squadrons. The combat training center methodology and facilities provided USAREUR units with tough, realistic combined arms and services training on a complex battlefield.
The CMTC at Hohenfels, Germany was the capstone of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver units in Europe under USAREUR Regulation 350-1, Training in USAREUR, and Regulation 350-50, Combat Maneuver Training Center. The CMTC could be used for various instrumental purposes including training for high intensity combat, Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and specific mission rehearsals.
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Superior Unit Award may be awarded during peacetime for outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission carried out under extraordinary circumstances. The unit must disp... The Superior Unit Award may be awarded during peacetime for outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission carried out under extraordinary circumstances. The unit must display such outstanding devotion and superior performance of exceptionally difficult tasks as to set it apart from and above other units with similar missions. The award is not given for operations of a purely humanitarian nature. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Comments IFOR Bosnia/Herzogovina Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and Hungary (Operation Joint Guard) 20 December 1996 - 20 June 1998; also entitled to Armed Forces Service Medal for above same timeframe as... IFOR Bosnia/Herzogovina Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and Hungary (Operation Joint Guard) 20 December 1996 - 20 June 1998; also entitled to Armed Forces Service Medal for above same timeframe as an exception to policy MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Service Medal provides recognition to participants who deploy to the designated area of eligibility for the qualifying operation. Outstanding or meritorious performance of nondeployed... The Armed Forces Service Medal provides recognition to participants who deploy to the designated area of eligibility for the qualifying operation. Outstanding or meritorious performance of nondeployed or remotely located support units and individuals is not justification for award of this medal (such performance may be recognized by appropriate unit and/or individual decorations). MoreHide
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description
Additional Overseas Ribbon for deployment to Bosnia-Herzogovina while assigned to 615th MP Co, 793 MP BN, 18th MP BDE, V Corp.
Criteria Thirty days continuous or accumulated service in direct support of NATO operations, on land, at sea or in the air spaces of the Former Yugoslavia, Albania, the Former Republic of Macedonia, and the Ad... Thirty days continuous or accumulated service in direct support of NATO operations, on land, at sea or in the air spaces of the Former Yugoslavia, Albania, the Former Republic of Macedonia, and the Adriatic Sea (the theatre of operations) commencing 1 July 1992 and ending 31 December 2002; or
Ninety days continuous or accumulated service commencing 1 July 1992 and ending 31 December 2002, in the territories of Italy, Greece, Hungary and Austria, in direct support of the NATO operations in the Former Yugoslavia (the adjacent area) MoreHide
Comments
Deployed to Bosnia-Herzogovina Jan 1996 to Nov 1996. Assigned to 536th MP Co with 4th Plt, 615th MP Co. Started at Tuzla AB, then to Camp Lisa, then on to Guardian Base before finally going home.
On 20 December 1996, NATO transitioned its operation in support of the Dayton Peace Accords in Bosnia and Herzegovina from implementation to stabilization. As a result, Operation Joint Endeavor ended
On 20 December 1996, NATO transitioned its operation in support of the Dayton Peace Accords in Bosnia and Herzegovina from implementation to stabilization. As a result, Operation Joint Endeavor ended and Operation Joint Guard began. NATO's Implementation Force (IFOR) was similarly replaced by a Stabilization Force (SFOR). The US Task Force Eagle, comprised at that time of 20,000 soldiers led by elements of the 1st Infantry Division, continued to be the US component of the NATO mission. On 20 June 1998, the decision was made to scale down the size of SFOR and NATO transitioned from Operation Joint Guard to Operation Joint Forge.
Description Beginning in December 1995, US and allied nations deployed peacekeeping forces to Bosnia in support of Operation Joint Endeavor. Task Force Eagle, comprised of 20,000 American soldiers, was the US comBeginning in December 1995, US and allied nations deployed peacekeeping forces to Bosnia in support of Operation Joint Endeavor. Task Force Eagle, comprised of 20,000 American soldiers, was the US component of NATO's Implementation Force (IFOR) and was tasked with implementing the military elements of the Dayton Peace Accords in support of Operation Joint Endeavor. Task Force Eagle was the lead element for NATO's Multinational Division (North) or MND(N). Operation Joint Endeavor marked the first commitment of forces in NATO's history, as well as the first time since World War II that American and Russian soldiers had shared a common mission. Thousands of people were alive in Bosnia because of these soldiers' service. On 20 December 1996, the IFOR mandate ended and NATO established a new operation, Operation Joint Guard, along with a new Stabilisation Force (SFOR) to replace IFOR. Task Force Eagle remained the title for the US contingent supporting this new operation.
Multinational Division (North) and Task Force Eagle's history began in 1995 following the NATO-imposed cease-fire, halting the destructive 4-year Balkan conflict. After the General Framework Agreement for Peace was signed on 14 December 1995, the United States 1st Armored Division, as part of NATO's Allied Command Europe, Rapid Reaction Corps, was ordered to Bosnia-Herzegovina as part of Operation Joint Endeavor. There it formed the nucleus of Task Force Eagle and assumed control of its area of responsibility on 20 December 1995. After the historic bridging of the Sava river on 31 December 1995, the Old Ironsides Division, with supporting Forces from the V Corps, was joined by Nordic-Polish, Turkish, and Russian Brigades, with contingents from 12 nations. These nations included Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Poland, Denmark, Lithuania, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Russia, Turkey, and the United States.
Task Force Eagle, one of the most powerful formations ever fielded, enforced the cease fire, supervised the marking of boundaries and the zone of separation between the former warring factions, enforced the withdrawal of the combatants to their barracks and the movement of heavy weapons to designated storage sites. Task Force Eagle also supported the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's efforts to administer the country's first ever, democratic national elections.
In the first 3 months of Operation Joint Endeavor, US Air Force mobility forces flew 3,000 missions, carried over 15,600 troops and delivered more than 30,100 short tons of cargo. These statistics reflected the presence of the C-17, which was systematically employed in a major contingency for the first time during the operation. The limited airfield at Tuzla, was the major port of debarkation in Bosnia-Herzegovina. During the first critical month of operations, the C-17 flew slightly more than 20 percent of the missions into, Tuzla but delivered over 50 percent of the cargo.
On 10 November 1996, the 1st Armored Division transferred authority for command and control of MND(N) and Task Force Eagle to the 1st Infantry Division. The 1st Infantry Division deployed as a covering force to allow the safe return of the 1st Armored Division units to their homes in Germany. Shortly thereafter, demonstrations in the villages of Celic and Gajevi tested the resolve and ability of the newly arrived Big Red One. On 12 November 1996, an armed altercation between the former warring factions occurred, which could have hindered the fragile peace process. The soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division skillfully intervened and quickly brought the very intense situation under control. Upon completion of the covering force mission, the 1st Infantry Division continued to ensure all military aspects of the Dayton Peace Accord were accomplished firmly and fairly.
During Operation Joint Endeavor, deployed intelligence personnel provided aircrews and staffs at several locations with critical threat information and airfield data. Taking advantage of the Combat Intelligence System (CIS) capabilities and an emerging global connectivity to military networks and databases, intelligence personnel provided the best and most timely support ever to air mobility forces. This improvement was particularly evident during the Mission Report (MISREP) process, when intelligence analysts used CIS to provide MISREP data very quickly to aircrews and staffs, ensuring the people in need of this intelligence received it while the data was still useful.
The European Command's ARG/MEU(SOC) was assigned as theater reserve for NATO forces, while Naval Mobile Construction Battalions 133 and 40 constructed base camps for implementation force personnel. In addition, from June to October 1996 a Marine Corps unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) squadron, VMU-1, supported the operation with Pioneer UAV imagery both to US and multinational units. VMU-1 was subsequently replaced by VMU-2, which continued to provide similar support.
The US Army Intelligence and Security Command's (INSCOM) Military Intelligence Battalion (Low Intensity) was originally notified of participation in Operation Joint Endeavor in the fall of 1995. The Airborne Reconnaissance - Low (ARL) system, however, was actually deployed for use in the US European Command theater from 28 January 1996 through 19 April 1996, with approximately 60 personnel, including 12 contracted civilian aircraft maintenance personnel from Rayethon, AVTAIL, and California Microwave Industries. During that time, the unit conducted 39 missions totaling 224.1 flight hours of imagery over Bosnia. After considerable coordination, US Southern Command finally released the ARL for a second deployment, this time from 8 August 1996 through 3 October 1996. On the second deployment, the unit conducted 33 missions totaling 197.1 flight hours of imagery over Bosnia. During the second deployment, there were 4 3-man Aerial Reconnaissance Support Teams deployed, one each in the the British (southwest) sector; the US (northern) sector in Tuzla; the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) in Sarajevo; and the French sector in Mostar. The Battalion also flew over 700 flight hours in support of the imagery efforts using RC-12 aircraft from C Company. In addition to the manned aircraft, the Battalion also deployed with the RQ-1 Predator UAV for the period 7 March 1996 through 2 September 1996. To operate the UAV, the unit formed a company as a detachment, called Detachment 3. It was a joint unit with personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Marine Corps. Responsibility for the system transferred to the US Air Force's 11th Reconnaissance Squadron on 2 September 1996.... More
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Ca
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Canada, and the Netherlands. CMTC training, conducted at the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA), was the capstone event of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver battalions, field artillery battalions, brigades, brigade slices, and division cavalry squadrons. The combat training center methodology and facilities provided USAREUR units with tough, realistic combined arms and services training on a complex battlefield.
The CMTC at Hohenfels, Germany was the capstone of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver units in Europe under USAREUR Regulation 350-1, Training in USAREUR, and Regulation 350-50, Combat Maneuver Training Center. The CMTC could be used for various instrumental purposes including training for high intensity combat, Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and specific mission rehearsals.
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Ca
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Canada, and the Netherlands. CMTC training, conducted at the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA), was the capstone event of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver battalions, field artillery battalions, brigades, brigade slices, and division cavalry squadrons. The combat training center methodology and facilities provided USAREUR units with tough, realistic combined arms and services training on a complex battlefield.
The CMTC at Hohenfels, Germany was the capstone of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver units in Europe under USAREUR Regulation 350-1, Training in USAREUR, and Regulation 350-50, Combat Maneuver Training Center. The CMTC could be used for various instrumental purposes including training for high intensity combat, Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and specific mission rehearsals.
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for six... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who have been assigned, attached, or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility for thirty consecutive or for sixty non-consecutive days, or who meet the following criteria: Be engaged in combat during an armed engagement, regardless of the time in the area of elibility; Is wounded or injured in the line of duty and requires medical evacuation from the area of eligibility; While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, or within the area of eligibility in direct support of military operations. Each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day toward the 30 or 60 day requirement; Personnel who serve in operations and exercises conducted in the area of eligibility are considered for the award as long as the basic time criteria are met. Due to the extensive time period for KDSM eligibility, the non-consecutive service period for eligibility remains cumulative throughout the entire period. The Area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the Republic of Korea, and the continuous water out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land and water areas. MoreHide
Comments
Assigned to 2nd MP Co, 2nd Infantry Division, Camp Casey, Korea.
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description
Assigned to 2nd MP Co, 2nd Infantry Division, Camp Casey, Korea from March 1992 to June 1992. Medical reassignment.
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
August 2, 1990 to November 30, 1995 for service during the Gulf War
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description
Assigned to 503rd MP Co, 3rd Armored Division, Drake Kaserne, Frankfurt, Germany from September 1987 to September 1990.
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Ca
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Canada, and the Netherlands. CMTC training, conducted at the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA), was the capstone event of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver battalions, field artillery battalions, brigades, brigade slices, and division cavalry squadrons. The combat training center methodology and facilities provided USAREUR units with tough, realistic combined arms and services training on a complex battlefield.
The CMTC at Hohenfels, Germany was the capstone of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver units in Europe under USAREUR Regulation 350-1, Training in USAREUR, and Regulation 350-50, Combat Maneuver Training Center. The CMTC could be used for various instrumental purposes including training for high intensity combat, Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and specific mission rehearsals.
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Criteria The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated... The NCO Professional Development Ribbon is awarded to all enlisted members of the Army to include the Reserve Components (Army National Guard and Army Reserve), for successful completion of designated NCO professional development courses. MoreHide
Description
Primary Leadership Development Course at Butzbach, Germany while assigned to 503rd MP Co, 3rd Armored Division. Graduated in November 1989.
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Ca
The CMTC had the mission to facilitate realistic force on force maneuver training for all US Army Europe (USAREUR) Combat Battalions, and to support NATO training densities such as Germany, France, Canada, and the Netherlands. CMTC training, conducted at the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA), was the capstone event of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver battalions, field artillery battalions, brigades, brigade slices, and division cavalry squadrons. The combat training center methodology and facilities provided USAREUR units with tough, realistic combined arms and services training on a complex battlefield.
The CMTC at Hohenfels, Germany was the capstone of the USAREUR training strategy for maneuver units in Europe under USAREUR Regulation 350-1, Training in USAREUR, and Regulation 350-50, Combat Maneuver Training Center. The CMTC could be used for various instrumental purposes including training for high intensity combat, Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and specific mission rehearsals.
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
Criteria The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement,... The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Description In the 1950s, U.S. Berlin Command created a special training area called PARKS RANGE. It was located at the end of Osdorfer Strasse in Lichterfelde. Two sides of it were next to the DDR (Communist EasIn the 1950s, U.S. Berlin Command created a special training area called PARKS RANGE. It was located at the end of Osdorfer Strasse in Lichterfelde. Two sides of it were next to the DDR (Communist East German) borderline. On the western side, about 30 yards away from the so-called DDR "Death Strip", began one of the biggest U.S. training sites in West Berlin. On the opposite side of the fence was the village of Teltow. Parks Range was shaped like a large triangle; about 1,5 km long and about 1 km wide. The smallest part, just about 300 yards long, has been on the street side. But here were the two main gates, the first one for wheeled, the second gate for tracked vehicles. Far in the rear of the Range also has been the back gate. The muddy area had previously belonged to the German Reichsbahn. In the rear were still parts of some old railway tracks. Now there were lots of young birch trees, which gave U.S. assault troops good cover.At the end of the 1970s, a big change took place at Parks Range. Several real concrete houses (1 to 4 floors) replaced the simple old wooden scenery. The new village was called "Doughboy City". It was surrounded with trees and bushes.
In December 1993 the Army concluded training at Parks Range. A year later, U.S. Troops withdrew from Berlin and Berlin Brigade was deactivated. It has been since torn down and is a grass wildlife area there are still remains of the once Doughboy City... More
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
Description Exercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forExercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forces to West Germany in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact.
The Reforger exercise itself was first conceived in 1967. The Johnson administration announced plans to withdraw approximately two divisions from Europe during 1968. As a demonstration of its continuing commitment to the defense of NATO and to illustrate its capability of rapid reinforcement, a large scale force deployment was planned that would deploy a division or more to West Germany in a regular annual exercise. The first such exercise was conducted beginning on 6 January 1969. These exercises continued annually past the end of the Cold War, except for the year 1989, until 1993.
Major units: (Germany based units) USAREUR (U.S. Army Europe): 3rd Infantry Division (Mech), Würzburg; 8th Infantry Division, Bad Kreuznach; 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Nuremberg; 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fulda; 3rd Armored Division, Frankfurt-am-Main; Berlin Brigade, Berlin. (U.S. based units): 1st Infantry Division (Mech); 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment; ; 197th Infantry Brigade; 45th Infantry Brigade, 1-179th Infantry (OK-ARNG, Oklahoma Army National Guard).... More
Description Grafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as peGrafenwoehr is located in beautiful Bavaria, near Nuremberg. The major command is the 7th Army Training Command with the primary mission of training. There are approximately 1000 people assigned as permanent party in Grafenwoehr. In 1998 the 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) initiated a live-fire exercise to train armored task forces and companies at Grafenwoehr Training Area. This is a significant change in land use at GTA, which has traditionally supported only limited off-road maneuvers.
The 90-year-history of the Grafenwoehr Training Area begann under the Royal Bavarian Army and continued with the German Wehrmacht. Many celebrities have visited Grafenwoehr, to include the Bavarian Princes and Elvis Presley, the King of Rock´n´Roll. Some may remember it as Strafenwoehr, a play on words about "Punish-Woehr" because the German word for punishment is the manipulated word of "G-rafen-Woehr" into "S-trafen-Woehr).... More
Description Hohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate distriHohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate district in the independent state of Bavaria. The region was part of the "Upper Palatinate Jura" uplands that extended from Amberg in the north to the Danube river in the south. The characteristic features of the Jura were hilly terrain with softly rounded rock formations, mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, dry valleys and a general scarcity of water resources. The arable land in the lower sections between the hills is of low fertility, frequently covered with eroded rock and limestone. These conditions explained the sparse population of the area.
Hohenfels' elevation ranged from 1,155 feet above sea level in the southeast corner of the training area to more than 2,000 feet above sea level in the southwest, and terrain varies from hills and softly rounded rock formations to dry valleys. Forests of coniferous and deciduous trees, brush and grasses grew in the yellow- and brown-clay topsoil. The limestone ground absorbed water slowly, but erosion control measures helped prevent topsoil from washing into streams.
Hohenfels had been the subject of intensive geological and hydro-geological investigations for several years to identify geotectonic zones of weakness (dolines, sinkholes) causing excessive turbidity in off-post areas after heavy rainfalls and demonstrating a potential safety hazard for training units during maneuver activities. Groundwater turbidity appeard to have increased since the construction of erosion control basins at the HTA.
Historical finds near the Vils and Naab rivers indicated settlement of the region as early as 700 BC, although human life could be traced back nearly 4,000 years. In early recorded history, the area was mentioned in 15 BC, by Emperor Augustus who sent his army north across the Alps to stop the southward move and land occupation by the Celtic and Gallic tribes. One of the tribes' strongholds was allegedly on Lindenberg Hill.
Historically, the primary occupation of the region's population was agriculture, cattle breeding, work in the forests and minor trade. Everyday life was uneventful until the area attracted military attention in 1937. The Hohenburg castle ruins on the Hohenfels Training Area was built around 1,000 AD by the counts of Hohenburg. After destruction and decay it was rebuilt in 1584. Its role was the domicile of nobility ended in 1641 when it was badly damaged by lightning that struck the gunpowder tower.
Hohenfels takes its name from the rock formations prevalent in the area and is literally translated as "high rock" or "high cliff." The name Hohenfels referred to the elevated location of the former castle. Built by a Noble of Hohenfels in the 10th century it changed hands several times. In 1631, Tilly, the famous general of the Thirty Years' War, possessed it. Later, in 1724, it was returned under Bavarian ownership and in 1804, its role as a residence of nobles ended. New private owners tore it down leaving nothing but part of the tower and wall ruins.
Numerous wars and conflicts burdened the local and regional populace including the Peasants' War in 1524 and the Thirty Years' War from 1618-1648. Between 1716 and 1721 the beautiful church "Saint Ulrich" was built. In 1743 nearly the entire town was destroyed by fire. A look at the town's buildings impressed the extent of that fire and by 2000 only few houses were over 200 years old. Conflict continued after with the Spanish and Austrian Succession War in the 18th century, and the First and Second World War, which resulted in the loss of uncounted lives and in immeasurable suffering and pain.
It was during the latter that the German army established a training area near the town of Hohenfels in 1938, and German combat units activated, reorganized and reequipped at the training area throughout World War II. Several villages were evacuated when the training area was built and expanded. A few scattered ruins remained in the training area. Polish, Ukrainian, Yugoslav, Russian, British and American soldiers were also interned at a prisoner of war camp at Hohenfels until they were liberated by the Third US Army on 22 April 1945. As one of the few facilities that had not suffered major damage, the camp became a processing station for displaced persons. US forces in 1951 expanded the training area to 40,017 acres, and American units began training there in October 1951. This facility became known as the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA).
Hohenfels and the HTA became home to the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC) in 1988, a part of the 7th Army Training Command. The CMTC at Hohenfels, at 39,858 acres (16,130 hectares), was the second largest training area available to US forces in Europe. The main mission was the training of troops.
By the mid-1980s much of the Hohenfels Training Area in Germany had become a moonscape. Tanks got stuck in the sucking mud, yellow-clay soil washed into streams and lakes, killing fish, and other animals and plants suffered as the land deteriorated from constant training. In response, the Department of the Army in 1985 created the Integrated Training Area Management program to rehabilitate US Army training lands throughout the world and, more importantly, to prevent them from becoming wastelands again.
In 1985 Hohenfels was chosen as one of 4 ITAM pilot sites to bring "drawing board" concepts to reality. When the ITAM program was fully integrated into other Army training areas in 1988 and 1989, Hohenfels became a model for training area land management worldwide. The office of the deputy chief of staff for operations picked up responsibility for ITAM-DA in 1996, so that management of the program moved from the Army's environmentalists to the trainers. The change was significant, because it forced the training community to recognize the importance of land management now that funding comes through the training program.
Description Exercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forExercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forces to West Germany in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact.
The Reforger exercise itself was first conceived in 1967. The Johnson administration announced plans to withdraw approximately two divisions from Europe during 1968. As a demonstration of its continuing commitment to the defense of NATO and to illustrate its capability of rapid reinforcement, a large scale force deployment was planned that would deploy a division or more to West Germany in a regular annual exercise. The first such exercise was conducted beginning on 6 January 1969. These exercises continued annually past the end of the Cold War, except for the year 1989, until 1993.
Major units: (Germany based units) USAREUR (U.S. Army Europe): 2nd Armored Division (Forward): Garlstedt. (U.S. based units): III Corps and III Corps Artillery: Ft. Hood; 1st Cavalry Division: Ft. Hood; 4th Infantry Division (Mech): Ft. Carson; 6th Cavalry Brigade (Air Combat): Ft. Hood; 45th Infantry Brigade (Sep): 1-279th Infantry (OK-ARNG, Oklahoma Army National Guard); 13th Support Command/Sustainment Command: Ft. Hood; 504th Military Intelligence/Battlefield Surveillance Brigade: Ft. Hood; 3rd Signal Brigade, Ft. Hood; 89th Military Police Brigade: Ft. Hood; 233rd Military Police Company: (33rd MP Battalion, IL-ARNG, Illinois Army National Guard); 420th Engineer Brigade (USAR, U.S. Army Reserve). 723rd Military Police Company: (165th MP Battalion, PA-ARNG, Pennsylvania Army National Guard)... More
Criteria The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outst... The Army Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces below the rank of colonel who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a noncombat area, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not of a nature that would warrant the award of an Army Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of conti... The Army Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members of the Army who distinguish themselves by exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity during a specified period of continuous enlisted active service (normally three years in peacetime). MoreHide
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California.
Fort Irwin National Training Center is a major training area for the United States Military and is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in northern San Bernardino County, California. Fort Irwin is at an average elevation of 2,454 feet (748 m). It is located 37 miles (60 km) northeast of Barstow, in the Calico Mountains.
The National Training Center is part of the US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM). The opposing force at the National Training Center (NTC) is the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, the Blackhorse Cavalry, who are stationed at the base to provide an opposing force to units on a training rotation at Fort Irwin.
Criteria The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (p... The Overseas Service Ribbon is awarded to all active members of the Army, the Army National Guard, and to Army Reservists who are credited with a normal overseas tour completed since August 1, 1981 (provided they have an active Army status on or after August 1, 1981). This ribbon may not be awarded for overseas service recognized by another United States service medal. MoreHide
Description
Assigned to 8th MP Co, 8th Infantry Division, Bad Kreuznach, Germany, Apr 1984 to Sept 1985.
Description Exercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forExercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forces to West Germany in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact.
The Reforger exercise itself was first conceived in 1967. The Johnson administration announced plans to withdraw approximately two divisions from Europe during 1968. As a demonstration of its continuing commitment to the defense of NATO and to illustrate its capability of rapid reinforcement, a large scale force deployment was planned that would deploy a division or more to West Germany in a regular annual exercise. The first such exercise was conducted beginning on 6 January 1969. These exercises continued annually past the end of the Cold War, except for the year 1989, until 1993.
Major units: (Germany based units) USAREUR (U.S. Army Europe): 8th Infantry Division, Bad Kreuznach; 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fulda; 3rd Armored Division, Frankfurt-am-Main. (U.S. based units): 4th Infantry Division (Mech), 5th Infantry Division (Mech), 197th Infantry Brigade.... More
Description Hohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate distriHohenfels Training Area was approximately 45 miles southwest of Grafenwoehr, and was less than 60 miles from the Czech Republic border. It was located in Neumarkt County in the Upper Palatinate district in the independent state of Bavaria. The region was part of the "Upper Palatinate Jura" uplands that extended from Amberg in the north to the Danube river in the south. The characteristic features of the Jura were hilly terrain with softly rounded rock formations, mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, dry valleys and a general scarcity of water resources. The arable land in the lower sections between the hills is of low fertility, frequently covered with eroded rock and limestone. These conditions explained the sparse population of the area.
Hohenfels' elevation ranged from 1,155 feet above sea level in the southeast corner of the training area to more than 2,000 feet above sea level in the southwest, and terrain varies from hills and softly rounded rock formations to dry valleys. Forests of coniferous and deciduous trees, brush and grasses grew in the yellow- and brown-clay topsoil. The limestone ground absorbed water slowly, but erosion control measures helped prevent topsoil from washing into streams.
Hohenfels had been the subject of intensive geological and hydro-geological investigations for several years to identify geotectonic zones of weakness (dolines, sinkholes) causing excessive turbidity in off-post areas after heavy rainfalls and demonstrating a potential safety hazard for training units during maneuver activities. Groundwater turbidity appeard to have increased since the construction of erosion control basins at the HTA.
Historical finds near the Vils and Naab rivers indicated settlement of the region as early as 700 BC, although human life could be traced back nearly 4,000 years. In early recorded history, the area was mentioned in 15 BC, by Emperor Augustus who sent his army north across the Alps to stop the southward move and land occupation by the Celtic and Gallic tribes. One of the tribes' strongholds was allegedly on Lindenberg Hill.
Historically, the primary occupation of the region's population was agriculture, cattle breeding, work in the forests and minor trade. Everyday life was uneventful until the area attracted military attention in 1937. The Hohenburg castle ruins on the Hohenfels Training Area was built around 1,000 AD by the counts of Hohenburg. After destruction and decay it was rebuilt in 1584. Its role was the domicile of nobility ended in 1641 when it was badly damaged by lightning that struck the gunpowder tower.
Hohenfels takes its name from the rock formations prevalent in the area and is literally translated as "high rock" or "high cliff." The name Hohenfels referred to the elevated location of the former castle. Built by a Noble of Hohenfels in the 10th century it changed hands several times. In 1631, Tilly, the famous general of the Thirty Years' War, possessed it. Later, in 1724, it was returned under Bavarian ownership and in 1804, its role as a residence of nobles ended. New private owners tore it down leaving nothing but part of the tower and wall ruins.
Numerous wars and conflicts burdened the local and regional populace including the Peasants' War in 1524 and the Thirty Years' War from 1618-1648. Between 1716 and 1721 the beautiful church "Saint Ulrich" was built. In 1743 nearly the entire town was destroyed by fire. A look at the town's buildings impressed the extent of that fire and by 2000 only few houses were over 200 years old. Conflict continued after with the Spanish and Austrian Succession War in the 18th century, and the First and Second World War, which resulted in the loss of uncounted lives and in immeasurable suffering and pain.
It was during the latter that the German army established a training area near the town of Hohenfels in 1938, and German combat units activated, reorganized and reequipped at the training area throughout World War II. Several villages were evacuated when the training area was built and expanded. A few scattered ruins remained in the training area. Polish, Ukrainian, Yugoslav, Russian, British and American soldiers were also interned at a prisoner of war camp at Hohenfels until they were liberated by the Third US Army on 22 April 1945. As one of the few facilities that had not suffered major damage, the camp became a processing station for displaced persons. US forces in 1951 expanded the training area to 40,017 acres, and American units began training there in October 1951. This facility became known as the Hohenfels Training Area (HTA).
Hohenfels and the HTA became home to the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC) in 1988, a part of the 7th Army Training Command. The CMTC at Hohenfels, at 39,858 acres (16,130 hectares), was the second largest training area available to US forces in Europe. The main mission was the training of troops.
By the mid-1980s much of the Hohenfels Training Area in Germany had become a moonscape. Tanks got stuck in the sucking mud, yellow-clay soil washed into streams and lakes, killing fish, and other animals and plants suffered as the land deteriorated from constant training. In response, the Department of the Army in 1985 created the Integrated Training Area Management program to rehabilitate US Army training lands throughout the world and, more importantly, to prevent them from becoming wastelands again.
In 1985 Hohenfels was chosen as one of 4 ITAM pilot sites to bring "drawing board" concepts to reality. When the ITAM program was fully integrated into other Army training areas in 1988 and 1989, Hohenfels became a model for training area land management worldwide. The office of the deputy chief of staff for operations picked up responsibility for ITAM-DA in 1996, so that management of the program moved from the Army's environmentalists to the trainers. The change was significant, because it forced the training community to recognize the importance of land management now that funding comes through the training program.
Description After 1951, its range served as a US Army training base operated by the 7th Army Training Command in Grafenwöhr, Germany.
Called "The Top of the Rock" the small post was among the most feared and disAfter 1951, its range served as a US Army training base operated by the 7th Army Training Command in Grafenwöhr, Germany.
Called "The Top of the Rock" the small post was among the most feared and disliked of all training areas due to high altitude and extreme weather conditions. The post was home to tank ranges and artillery ranges in addition to standard training ranging. Additionally, it was one of only a few training sites allowed by the German government to utilize CS gas in training.... More
Criteria The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to members of the Regular Army, National Guard, or Army Reserve for successful completion of initial entry training. In the case of personnel who receive a Military ... The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to members of the Regular Army, National Guard, or Army Reserve for successful completion of initial entry training. In the case of personnel who receive a Military Occupational Specialty identifier based on civilian or other-service acquired skills, the ribbon is awarded upon honorable completion of four months active service. Only one award of this ribbon is authorized, even if an individual completes both officer and enlisted initial entry training. MoreHide
Description
Awarded upon graduation of Basic Training Jan 1984.
Description After 1951, its range served as a US Army training base operated by the 7th Army Training Command in Grafenwöhr, Germany.
Called "The Top of the Rock" the small post was among the most feared and disAfter 1951, its range served as a US Army training base operated by the 7th Army Training Command in Grafenwöhr, Germany.
Called "The Top of the Rock" the small post was among the most feared and disliked of all training areas due to high altitude and extreme weather conditions. The post was home to tank ranges and artillery ranges in addition to standard training ranging. Additionally, it was one of only a few training sites allowed by the German government to utilize CS gas in training.... More
Description Exercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forExercise Reforger (from return of forces to Germany) was an annual exercise conducted, during the Cold War, by NATO. The exercise was intended to ensure that NATO had the ability to quickly deploy forces to West Germany in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact.
The Reforger exercise itself was first conceived in 1967. The Johnson administration announced plans to withdraw approximately two divisions from Europe during 1968. As a demonstration of its continuing commitment to the defense of NATO and to illustrate its capability of rapid reinforcement, a large scale force deployment was planned that would deploy a division or more to West Germany in a regular annual exercise. The first such exercise was conducted beginning on 6 January 1969. These exercises continued annually past the end of the Cold War, except for the year 1989, until 1993.
Major units: (Germany based units) USAREUR (U.S. Army Europe): 1st Infantry Division (Forward), Göppingen; 3rd Infantry Division (Mech), Würzburg; 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fulda. (U.S. based units): 1st Infantry Division (Mech); 5th Infantry Division; 24th Infantry Division; 30th Armored Brigade (Sep): (TN-ARNG, Tennessee Army National Guard); 7th Infantry Division (Light): 3rd Brigade.... More
Best Friends
I don't recall any one person being my best friend. I did what my Dad told me to do in Basic: I put my head down, focused on studying the little blue book, and did my absolute best not to be a focal point for any of the instructors. I think I succeeded at that, as I was never really called out individually for being a screw-up.
Best Moment
I was recognized for being in the top 5% of test scores. Of course, that's the written test scores. And for me, I knew that was the best I could hope for. Oh yeah, I also scored Expert on all the weapon systems that we qualified on. So, I did my best at what I knew I could outscore the other men and women on.
I wasn't overly strong, so when I took the Army Physical Fitness Test, I wasn't able to do a lot of push-ups. I scored well on the sit-ups and the 2-mile run, but without a good score in the first event, it didn't really matter.
Worst Moment
I can't recall anything.
Instructors
SSG Grider was a Vietnam Veteran who served with the Big Red One, 1st Infantry Division. We were his last training platoon. On our last M16 live fire day, he placed his Round Brown out on a target support pole and let each one of us put a round through the hat. It was very exciting for a lot of the members.
SSG Haynes was a very attractive black woman. A few of the racist men in our platoon struggled with her having authority over them. Being that it was 1983, there was still a lot of above-board racism in the US. She didn't let it bother her, at least that we could tell by her body language. After all, she had all the authority, and we had NONE.
Other Memories
Basic Training. What can be said about it? Was it tough? Yes, it was, especially for those recruits who hadn't been involved in sports, martial arts, or some form of program that made you push your body beyond your limits every once in a while. But it was much easier than I expected when I look back on it. The Drill Sergeants were a bit of a shock on Day 0. They got in your face where you could feel their breath and, occasionally, their spit. They were loud and sent orders to you so fast that it was impossible to fulfill what they were asking of you. It was all intended to speed your life up so that you would succeed if you were ever in a combat situation. It all had a purpose, which was to ensure that you had a chance of survival when facing an enemy who wanted to kill you. Transitioning from Basic to Advanced Individual Training (Military Police School) was also a bit of a shock. Suddenly, our Drill Sergeants were more friendly and helpful without making you feel like an idiot. They would even sit and talk with a group of trainees as we polished our boots, watched TV in the day room, or even sit on your rack with you to discuss some things. It was nice. Since we were training to be Police Officers, they would remind you that they were still Drill Sergeants every once in a while! I was a lucky "recruit." When I reported for Basic Training, I was very skinny. I weighed a whopping 118 lbs on day 2. Everyone in the platoon was weighed in that day so that SSG Grider could determine just who he was training and how they would eat, run, etc. Because I was under the required minimum weight, I was going to be the first one in line for chow and the last one to leave. When my tray was empty, I was put back into the line, of course, the front of the line, and received a second helping of everything. The attending Drill Sergeant knew what the situation was with me, so they were all so nice to me about being first. Eating all of that food for 16 weeks put a mere 3 lbs on me. Later in my time in service, I found out that I had a very fast metabolism that made it very difficult for me to gain weight. That was until I turned 38. Then, boom, everything that I had been eating for the last 20 yrs showed up on my waistline. LOL
Aaron Buelow
Mark Martinez
Freddy Juarez
John Endres
Tom O'Brien
There were several as we were constantly training troops, and when you do, there are plenty of opportunities to have memorable or funny incidents.
Mark and Freddy were the class clowns who always brought levity to every situation, no matter how serious we were trying to be.
During this mobilization time, John and I took a FA unit to New Jersey to train them before they went to Iraq. Of course, the timing was ludicrous! We went to Ft. Dix in the wintertime, and it was a year of heavy snowfall. The unit was an NG unit out of AZ, and we took them to several feet of snow to train them to go to the desert!!! Talk about idiotic! We couldn't figure out why we didn't take them to Ft. Bliss! Ugh, that's Army training, Sir!
There were several worst moments also because this 8-year assignment was unaccompanied. My kids were in their middle and high school periods of their lives. Both of them really needed a present father. I wasn't the only one who was experiencing this. We had many parents who were going through the same thing. It was tough for all of us. That sort of made it better, as we had each other's shoulders to cry on.
Our Chain of Command changed constantly. It all depended on which mission we were on. If we were working out of Mesa, AZ, we would fall under the CoC of the Rear Detachment. If we were in the Ft Bliss, TX training environment, that CoC constantly changed based on what the Army was doing with reconfiguration at that particular moment. Suppose we were on a MAT team, our CoC split. We had the one we had to send our reports to about their subordinate unit's training successes. And we had the one at the training site where the unit was mobilizing.
The nice thing about the people I was assigned with in the 2/363rd TSBn was that we were like one big family. Thankfully the Army saw fit to keep us all together during the CoC changes. That consistency created a home team that helped us keep it together mentally and spiritually, at least for me.
Being able to go home, probably more frequently than Army regulations allowed, was another one of the things that made the mobilization a little bit easier. Our primary CoC worked diligently to ensure that we got to rotate back to the Rear D, where we had some semblance of a 9-5 job. In my case, I still lived in a hotel in Mesa, AZ, but I was able to return home every weekend to my family. The Rear D CoC also gave me a lot of 4-day passes so I could have more time with my family. Those opportunities made my deployments a little easier. It also made a difference when it came time to volunteer for another year of mobilization. Those moments at home were the best. Cyndi would move the celebrations of birthdays and other special occasions to the weekends so I could be a part of them. Other times I would go ahead and make the ride home. My immediate leader would let me leave work earlier than usual. That way, I didn't have to fight traffic, and I would get to be home for dinner with the family. That type of leadership made all the difference in the world.