Best Friends
CSM (ret) Larry Linville, SFC (ret) Lapadre Hampton
Best Moment
16 March 2013...My Last Day!
Worst Moment
16 March 2013...Leaving my friends to continue the work without me. Proud, but bittersweet.
Chain of Command
Battalion Commander: LTC Jack A. James Battalion Executive Officer: MAJ Wing Y. Yu Battalion Command Sergeants Major: Marc Maynard Company Commander: 1LT Paul A. Singer Company First Sergeant: 1SG Robert B. Smalley
Other Memories
Out-processing at Ft. Drum, NY, VA Appointments in Syracuse and Watertown, NY.
Worst Moment
Getting the call to assume CAO (Casualty Assistance Officer) duties for SPC Kyle Wright's mother, after he was killed on 13 January 2010, in Afghanistan. Laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery (Section 60) on 02 February 2010. RIP
Chain of Command
BN CDR: LTC Jack James BN CSM: CSM Marc Maynard CO CDR: 1LT Paul Singer CO 1SG: 1SG Bob Smalley
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 Retirement Award. Received at my retirement ceremony, DaVinci's Restaurant in Greece, NY, on Friday 15 February 2013. Along with current and former co-workers, my Wife, Mother, In-Laws, and Aunt Tam... Retirement Award. Received at my retirement ceremony, DaVinci's Restaurant in Greece, NY, on Friday 15 February 2013. Along with current and former co-workers, my Wife, Mother, In-Laws, and Aunt Tammy, were in attendance. Great end to a 25-year career. Thanks for the memories! MoreHide
Criteria Awarded to all military personnel who have completed specified periods of honorable, satisfactory active service in the New York Army National Guard, New York Air National Guard, New York Naval Militi... Awarded to all military personnel who have completed specified periods of honorable, satisfactory active service in the New York Army National Guard, New York Air National Guard, New York Naval Militia and New York Guard MoreHide
Criteria Awarded to individuals of the New York State Organized Militia who distinguished themselves by sustained meritorious service in a humane operation as a result of a natural disaster, such as floods, sn... Awarded to individuals of the New York State Organized Militia who distinguished themselves by sustained meritorious service in a humane operation as a result of a natural disaster, such as floods, snow storms, hurricanes, tornados, and acts of mercy. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded on 02 April 2013, for performing State Active Duty during Super Storm Sandy: 27 October 2012 - 17 December 2012.
As Hurricane Sandy bore down on the East Coast, Defense Logistics Agency team members in the Joint Logistics Operations Center increased the intensity of their work.
Sailors start a pump to remove wat
As Hurricane Sandy bore down on the East Coast, Defense Logistics Agency team members in the Joint Logistics Operations Center increased the intensity of their work.
Sailors start a pump to remove water from a flooded basement in Queens, N.Y., Nov. 6, 2012. The Defense Logistics Agency has contracted for more than 100 pumps to assist in Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Martin Cuaron
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.
The JLOC is DLA’s focal point for gathering and analyzing information involving the agency’s operations from within and outside of the agency, said Army Col. Roger McCreery, JLOC chief. The center typically runs in two eight-hour shifts, with a full staff ready to respond to requests between 4 a.m. and 8 p.m. and a staff duty officer able to respond between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m.
As the storm approached the Northeast, the JLOC added a third shift and went to 24-hour operations. McCreery explained the JLOC has a “graduated response plan” in place to immediately add personnel and a third shift when needed.
“Even before the storm hit, we increased to a third shift,” McCreery said. “That way we had 24-hour ops coverage, which mirrors some of the other operations centers involved in the storm relief: the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Northern Command.”
The extra personnel came from other entities within DLA Headquarters, including civilians, active-duty service members and reservists, said Buzz Hackett, the JLOC’s deputy chief. Other personnel took on roles as liaison officers with critical partners in the relief effort.
“No two disasters or hazards are the same,” Hackett said. “In this case, what we found ourselves doing was providing support to FEMA and the Corps of Engineers. … We sent many more LNOs to work with state governments. We hadn’t necessarily done that in the past. We sent many more LNOs to embed with governments and agencies, whereas in the past we didn’t expand that LNO network to this degree.”
As of Nov. 13, the JLOC had helped to coordinate the delivery of more than 6.2 million meals, 48 pallets of bottled water, 7.8 million gallons of fuel, 107 water pumps, 51 generators, 500 sets of cold-weather clothing, 172,000 blankets, 4,000 cots, 200 hypothermia-prevention kits and six portable X-ray machines to affected areas.
Contracting for generators to ease the burden of power outages and pumps to aid in drying out soaked buildings and infrastructure were two challenges unique to this storm, Hackett said. The agency positioned generators and high-capacity pumps at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., to augment and support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in meeting those needs. The agency has also helped USACE in contracting out the removal of more than 30 million pounds of trash and debris.
In addition to the liaison officers who went to work with other organizations, FEMA and USACE sent LNOs to work in the JLOC to better facilitate communications, Hackett said. “Our LNOs and the LNOs who have come to us have been key in keeping lines of communication open between the organizations,” he added.
McCreery said communication is critical in contingency operations like this relief effort.
“Being able to communicate critical information to make decisions and influence what’s going is critical. The JLOC plays an important role in that communication,” he said.
Those LNOs allow JLOC staff to collect a variety of information so they can present needs to leaders at DLA Headquarters and the agency’s primary-level field activities, McCreery said. As requests for support come in, FEMA communicates these requirements to the agency through the JLOC.
“We collect that information, and present it to the leadership so they have a common operational picture and good situational awareness of what’s going on,” McCreery said. “It allows them to make decisions to leverage capabilities. It also allows them to give the nation’s civilian leaders an idea of what DLA is doing and what it is capable of doing.”
FEMA’s requests, coupled with DLA’s ability to deliver supplies and USACE’s engineering expertise, led to apartment buildings getting power back in the Breezy Point neighborhood in Queens, N.Y., a borough where power outages still remain a challenge.
“The request mechanism is quite defined: FEMA is national lead, and it’s their responsibility,” he said. “We’re all elements supporting them. A request may be generated by the New York City Housing Authority: ‘We need help with generator support at Apartment Building X.’ The Corps of Engineers looks at their capabilities, and DLA has positioned capabilities to augment them. It gets sorted out and vetted by FEMA at the state and national levels.”
Despite the ramped up support to Sandy relief efforts, the JLOC has continued to focus on supporting warfighters worldwide, specifically in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, McCreery said.
“The agency continues to ensure and the JLOC monitors delivery of more than 60 million gallons of fuel to warfighters in Afghanistan and elsewhere and maintained a food supply large enough to keep troops fed for more than two months,” he said.
“Neither the JLOC or the agency’s PLFAs have skipped a beat,” McCreery added. “The support over in Afghanistan is steady state. Any issues that arise are dealt with, and things are going very, very smoothly. The ability to provide support like we have for this contingency while maintaining support in Afghanistan is pretty phenomenal.”
Hackett said supported organizations and infrastructure available are different for operations in Afghanistan and missions such as Sandy relief efforts.
“What ends up being different is [that] overseas we work mainly with the Defense Department and sometimes the U.S. Agency for International Development,” he said. “In this case, with Northcom being the lead military commander and FEMA having the mission lead, those are the entities we’re working with and embedding ourselves within. Also, in the United States, the industry and supply base to support our supply chains is so much more robust.”
In addition to LNOs working to expedite relief efforts throughout the region, several of the agency’s senior leaders have spent time in the affected areas to help coordinate operations and build relationships between organizations. DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek was in New Jersey on such a trip Nov. 13. And Army Maj. Gen. Kenneth Dowd, DLA’s director of logistics operations, has made two trips to impacted areas in New Jersey and New York. Hackett said visits such as these have helped strengthen ties throughout the agencies involved in the relief effort.
“The visits our senior leaders have made have paid big dividends,” he said.
McCreery said the overall team effort from throughout DLA has been phenomenal.
“The capability of this organization is enormous,” he said. “Being able to tap into that takes a very concerted effort and a team to do that. The agency’s support has been tremendous. The feedback folks are getting on the ground is positive on how DLA has leaned forward and assisted in this relief effort.”
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
Comments
Annual Training for HSC 642nd ASB, Rochester, NY. For period of 28 March-26 April 2008. While serving as the Ammunition NCOIC.
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
Unit awarded for supporting Operation Noble Eagle. Period of 30 November 2003 to 25 May 2005.
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
Comments
For the period of: 07 July 1998 - 20 November 2000. Awarded 22 December 2006.
Best Friends
SSG Schultz, SGT Guelzow, SPC Lyons, SPC Potter, SPC Johnson, SPC Lupiani, MAJ Boies, 1SG Bimber, SFC Downie, SFC Dobson and all who served in support of Operation Noble Eagle.
Chain of Command
MAJ Boies, 1SG Bimber
Other Memories
Operation Noble Eagle (Ft. Bragg, NC/Ft. Benning, GA - Air Ambulance, 2004-2005), Hurricane Katrina Mobilization Support
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
Comments Operation Noble Eagle from 249th Med Co (AA), Ft. Bragg, NC/Ft. Benning, GA. For period of 02 January 2004 to 25 May 2005. While serving as the Airfield Service Section NCOIC and Company Training NCO.... Operation Noble Eagle from 249th Med Co (AA), Ft. Bragg, NC/Ft. Benning, GA. For period of 02 January 2004 to 25 May 2005. While serving as the Airfield Service Section NCOIC and Company Training NCO. MoreHide
Criteria Awarded to any current New York State citizen or person who was a New York State citizen while serving on federal active duty; or, a non-New York State citizen who is an active member in the New York ... Awarded to any current New York State citizen or person who was a New York State citizen while serving on federal active duty; or, a non-New York State citizen who is an active member in the New York State organized militia, and as such served with the units of the New York State organized militia while on federal active duty for purposes other than training and/or annual training; whose entire service was honorable and who were recipients of a valor, achievement, commendation, or meritorious service decoration, of a lesser degree than required for the award of the Conspicuous Service Cross, or whose service was in direct support of combat operations while serving in the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded for Operational Noble Eagle (02 Jan 04 - 22 May 2005).
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
Operation Noble Eagle with 249th Med Co (AA), Ft. Bragg, NC/Ft. Benning, GA. For Period of 02 January 2004 to 25 May 2005.
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
Mobilization for Operation Noble Eagle. For period of 02 January 2004 to 25 May 2005.
Honorably served in the NYARNG 07 July 1998-31 March 2013.
Description Hurricane Katrina was the costliest natural disaster and one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States. The storm is currently ranked as the third most intense United StatesHurricane Katrina was the costliest natural disaster and one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States. The storm is currently ranked as the third most intense United States landfalling tropical cyclone, behind only the 1935 Labor Day hurricane and Hurricane Camille in 1969. Overall, at least 1,245 people died in the hurricane and subsequent floods, making it the deadliest United States hurricane since the 1928 Okeechobee hurricane. Total property damage was estimated at $108 billion (2005 USD), roughly four times the damage wrought by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 in the United States.
The eleventh named storm and fifth hurricane of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season, Katrina originated over the Bahamas on August 23 from the interaction between a tropical wave and the remnants of Tropical Depression Ten. Early the following day, the new depression intensified into Tropical Storm Katrina. The cyclone headed generally westward toward Florida and strengthened into a hurricane only two hours before making landfall at Hallandale Beach and Aventura on August 25. After very briefly weakening to a tropical storm, Katrina emerged into the Gulf of Mexico on August 26 and began to rapidly deepen. The storm strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, but weakened before making its second landfall as a Category 3 hurricane on August 29 in southeast Louisiana.
Katrina caused severe destruction along the Gulf coast from central Florida to Texas, much of it due to the storm surge and levee failure. Severe property damage occurred in coastal areas, such as Mississippi beachfront towns; over 90 percent of these were flooded. Boats and casino barges rammed buildings, pushing cars and houses inland; water reached 6–12 miles (10–19 km) from the beach.
Over fifty breaches in New Orleans's hurricane surge protection were the cause of the majority of the death and destruction during Katrina on August 29, 2005. Eventually 80% of the city and large tracts of neighboring parishes became flooded, and the floodwaters lingered for weeks. According to a modeling exercise conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), two-thirds of the deaths in Greater New Orleans were due to levee and floodwall failure. All of the major studies concluded that the USACE, the designers and builders of the levee system as mandated by the Flood Control Act of 1965, is responsible. This is mainly due to a decision to use shorter steel sheet pilings in an effort to save money. In January 2008, Judge Stanwood Duval, U.S. District Court, ruled that despite the Corps' role in the flooding, the agency could not be held financially liable because of sovereign immunity in the Flood Control Act of 1928. Exactly ten years after Katrina, J. David Rogers, lead author of a new report in the official journal of the World Water Council concluded that the flooding during Katrina "could have been prevented had the corps retained an external review board to double-check its flood-wall designs."
There was also an investigation of the responses from federal, state and local governments, resulting in the resignation of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) director Michael D. Brown, and of New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Superintendent Eddie Compass. Many other government officials were criticized for their responses, especially New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco, and President George W. Bush. Several agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG), National Hurricane Center (NHC), and National Weather Service (NWS) were commended for their actions. They provided accurate hurricane weather tracking forecasts with sufficient lead time.... More
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
Memories Meetings, Power Point Slides, Meetings, Power Point Slides, Meetings, Power Point Slides...and occasMeetings, Power Point Slides, Meetings, Power Point Slides, Meetings, Power Point Slides...and occassionally hanging out with the guys, watching sports, etc.... More
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
Service in the Republic of Korea (ROK) with HHT 3rd Sqdn, 6th U.S. Cav Regt, 6th U.S. Cav Bde. For period of 22 June 1997 to 30 May 1998. *(Replaced Overseas Service Ribbon awarded 30 May 1998).
Criteria The Defense of Liberty Medal is a Campaign Medal which may be awarded to members of the New York State Organized Militia who performed homeland defense duty in any status in response to an order by th... The Defense of Liberty Medal is a Campaign Medal which may be awarded to members of the New York State Organized Militia who performed homeland defense duty in any status in response to an order by the Governor. This medal may also be awarded to civilians who worked in support of the New York State Organized Militia and are deemed appropriate by The Adjutant General. MoreHide
Comments
For service in Lower Manhattan following 9/11, w/ WTC Device. Awarded 16 January 2003.
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
Completion of BNCOC at Ft. Lee, VA for MOS 92F30, for the period of 01 September - 19 December 2003.
Description "Operation Enduring Freedom" (OEF) is the current official name used by the U.S. government for the War in Afghanistan, together with a number of smaller military actions, under the umbrella of the Gl"Operation Enduring Freedom" (OEF) is the current official name used by the U.S. government for the War in Afghanistan, together with a number of smaller military actions, under the umbrella of the Global "War on Terror" (GWOT).
The operation was originally called "Operation Infinite Justice", but as similar phrases have been used by adherents of several religions as an exclusive description of God, it is believed to have been changed to avoid offense to Muslims, who are the majority religion in Afghanistan. U.S. President George W. Bush's remark that "this crusade, this war on terrorism, is going to take a while", which prompted widespread criticism from the Islamic world, may also have contributed to the renaming of the operation.
The Operation comprises several subordinate operations:
Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (OEF-P, formerly Operation Freedom Eagle)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Horn of Africa (OEF-HOA)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Pankisi Gorge (completed in 2004)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Trans Sahara (OEF-TS; see also Insurgency in the Maghreb)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Caribbean and Central America (OEF-CCA)
The term "OEF" typically refers to the war in Afghanistan. Other operations, such as the Georgia Train and Equip Program, are only loosely or nominally connected to OEF, such as through government funding vehicles. All the operations, however, have a focus on counterterrorism activities.
Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, which is a joint U.S., U.K. and Afghan operation, is separate from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), which is an operation of North Atlantic Treaty Organization nations including the U.S. and U.K. The two operations run in parallel, and although it has been intended that they merge for some time, this has not yet happened.
Overview
In response to the attacks of 11 September, the early combat operations that took place on 7 October 2001 to include a mix of strikes from land-based B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress bombers, carrier-based F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 Hornet fighters, and Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from both U.S. and British ships and submarines signaled the start of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A).
The initial military objectives of OEF-A, as articulated by President George W. Bush in his 20 September Address to a Joint Session of Congress and his 7 October address to the country, included the destruction of terrorist training camps and infrastructure within Afghanistan, the capture of al-Qaeda leaders, and the cessation of terrorist activities in Afghanistan."
In January 2002, over 1,200 soldiers from the United States Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC) deployed to the Philippines to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in their push to uproot terrorist forces on the island of Basilan. Of those groups included are Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiyah.[8] The operation consisted of training the AFP in counter-terrorist operations as well as supporting the local people with humanitarian aid in Operation Smiles.
In October 2002, the Combined Task Force 150 and United States military Special Forces established themselves in Djibouti at Camp Lemonnier. The stated goals of the operation were to provide humanitarian aid and patrol the Horn of Africa to reduce the abilities of terrorist organizations in the region. Similar to OEF-P, the goal of humanitarian aid was emphasised, ostensibly to prevent militant organizations from being able to take hold amongst the population as well as reemerge after being removed.
The military aspect involves coalition forces searching and boarding ships entering the region for illegal cargo as well as providing training and equipment to the armed forces in the region. The humanitarian aspect involves building schools, clinics and water wells to enforce the confidence of the local people.
Since 2001, the cumulative expenditure by the U.S. government on Operation Enduring Freedom has exceeded $150 billion.
The operation continues, with military direction mostly coming from United States Central Command.... More
People You Remember SFC King, SGT Lyness, SSG Martinez, MAJ McConnell, CPT Nitka, SFC Downie, SFC Snyder, and SGT SimmonSFC King, SGT Lyness, SSG Martinez, MAJ McConnell, CPT Nitka, SFC Downie, SFC Snyder, and SGT Simmons asking me for my ID when I returned to the Armory (silly, because he worked for me at the time, but that was his orders and he did a great job).... More
Memories Getting a root canal as events unfolded, then trying to answer the phone with a numb mouth as SoldieGetting a root canal as events unfolded, then trying to answer the phone with a numb mouth as Soldiers began to call in.... More
Best Friends
SGT Lyness, SFC Martinez, SSG McNeil, SGT Guelzow, SFC Brown, SPC Bartlett, SFC Dail, SSG Packard, SFC King
Other Memories
Attended 77F10 course (Phases 1&2) at Ft. Pickett, VA, for Training NCO AGR position. Upon graduation, promoted back to SSG/E-6 with a Date of Rank: 21 January 2001.
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
Service during Global War On Terrorism. Period of 11 September 2001 to Date To Be Determined.
Description
After the Twin Towers destruction on 9/11/2001, the 77th Regional Readiness
Command mobilization for Rescue and Security of Ground Zero.
People You Remember
G-4, 42nd ID (MECH), MG Garrett, CSM Lyness, COL Coyne, SFC Snyder, SSG Rapp
Memories Gathering information for the G-4 BUB Slides, organizing Procurement Requests, identifying and accouGathering information for the G-4 BUB Slides, organizing Procurement Requests, identifying and accounting for newly donated items on the drill floor, etc.
Visting WTC site, Governor Pataki's visit/speech and watching the New York Yankees comeback victory in the World Series with "real" New York fans! Best and Worst of times.... More
Worst Moment
Taking a second "administrative reduction" to either meet enlistment criteria from NG to Regular Army (1990), or MOS qualification for Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) position.
Chain of Command
CPT Marc H. Boies, 1SG David L. Bimber
Other Memories
Hired for Company Training NCO position (AGR) on 12 October 2000, with a start date of 20 November 2000. *Required to take an administrative reduction to SGT/E-5 for Non-Duty MOS Qualification (NDMOSQ) as a 77F30. Reserved for 77F10 course (Phases 1&2 back-to-back) for 01-30 June 2001. Upon completion of Duty MOS Qualification, I would be promoted back to SSG/E-6 with an effective date of rank backdated to 21 January 2001.
Worst Moment
Getting lost from Camp Humphreys to MPRC and winding up in Kimwha (near the DMZ), before turning around and finding MRPC.
Chain of Command
SQDN CDR: LTC Buffkin Troop CDR: CPT Jones
Other Memories
SGT Eldridge Stakes (aka "Gabby Hayes Stakes"), Apache Gunnery at Kunsan (Chic-do Range), Missions to Camp Eagle (Wonju). Spending evenings at the office typing up the Ammo SOP for HHT 3rd Sqdn, 6th U.S. Cavalry Brigade with 52nd Ord Co. Christmas '97 visit by Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, Army Chief of Staff and local Generals. Concerts at "Harley's" like Lickety Split and Sun Kings. Shopping in Osan and Eitewon. "One-Eyed Buffaloes," "Panther Piss" and "Designated Walkers"
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
Comments
PCS Award from HHT 3rd Sqdn, 6th U.S. Cav, 6th Cav Bde, Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. For period of 22 June 1997 to 30 May 1998.
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
Best Moment
Promotion to Sergeant/E-5 on 01 November 1996, after nearly 5 years as a Specialist (due to Drawdown after the Cold War).
Worst Moment
SPC Etienne being killed the morning after Labor Day 1996 by two young men who threw a cinder block off an overpass on I-81, just days before departing for JRTC at Ft. Polk, LA. Rest In Peace, my friend!
Chain of Command
CDR: CPT Arthur 1SG: 1SG Williams PLT SGT: SSG Notic-Jones/SSG Rowland SQD LDR: SGT Robershaw
Other Memories
Mountain Peak '95, JRTC 01-96, JRTC 02-96, CATB (Jan-Mar 96), Purple Dragon (May 96), JRTC 10-96, JTF-6 (Jan-Mar 97), FTX's in the snow!
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
Comments
PCS Award from HHC 10th Avn Bde, 10th Mtn Div (LI), Ft. Drum, NY. For period of 15 March 1995 to 20 May 1997.
Other Memories
Funerals for UH-60 helicopter crew of "Courage 53" (Somalia, KIA 25 Sep 93) and Task Force Ranger. Holoman AFB for JTF-6/Apache Gunnery at McGregor Range. JRTC Rotation 10-94 during invasion of Haiti
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
Comments
PCS Award from HHC 3-101st Avn Regt, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Ft. Campbell, KY. For the period of 13 July 1992 to 15 February 1995.
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
Comments
JRTC Rotation 01-95 for HHC 3-25th Avn Regt, Ft. Drum, NY. Period of 05-24 October 1995.
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
Comments
Ft. Knox FTX for HHC 3-101st Avn Regt, Ft. Campbell, KY. For period of 01-14 June 1994.
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
Comments
JRTC Rotation 10-94 for HHC 3-101st Avn Regt, Ft. Campbell, KY. For period of 05-24 September 1994.
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
Comments
For period of 28 November 1990-28 November 1993.
Description Operation VIGILANT WARRIOR was a military operation from 8 October 1994 to 15 December 1994 by the United States in response to two divisions of Iraqi Republican Guard troops moving toward the KuwaitiOperation VIGILANT WARRIOR was a military operation from 8 October 1994 to 15 December 1994 by the United States in response to two divisions of Iraqi Republican Guard troops moving toward the Kuwaiti border. A quick response by United States President Bill Clinton allowed USCENTAF command and staff to deploy to Riyadh within days.
Operation Vigilant Warrior On 3 OCT 94, Company C, Second Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne); (C/2/5 SFG(A); was deployed on IRIS GOLD 95-1 for presences forward and pre-mission training with selected elements of the Kuwait Ministry of Defense (MOD). The training mission rapidly transitioned to defense of Kuwait operation establishing a Combat Air Support (CAS) umbrella over the entire northern third of the State of Kuwait employing five (5) each Special Forces, A-Teams, task organized and deploying 15 Forward Air Control (FAC) Teams.
Over a 16-day period C/2/5 SFG (A) provided; composition and disposition of all forces arrayed in the Kuwait Defense Plan (KDP); de-confliction of the main battle area; anti-fratricide capability; and real time ground truth in the battle space.
C/2/5 SFG (A) maintained the CAS umbrella continuously until elements of 1st Brigade of the 24 Infantry Division (Mechanized) arrived in Kuwait and established an operational capability on or about 19 OCT 1994.
Operational Outcome: Army Prepositioned Stocks (APS) concept could not adequately respond to tactical threats emerging in the Persian Gulf area.
Strategic Outcome: The Strategic Operational gap analysis indicated in order to protect U.S. National Interest on the Arabian Peninsula; requires establishment of Brigade Combat Team (BCT) in the State of Kuwait.
On the evening of 7 October 1994, 1st Brigade of the 24th Infantry Division (Mechanized) based at Fort Stewart GA went on alert. The following day, lead elements of that Brigade, consisting of four line companies each from the 2/7 Infantry Battalion and 3/69 Armor Battalion plus the 2/7 Infantry Battalion Headquarters, deployed by air on orders to Camp Doha, Kuwait. Those elements completed the air movement within 48 hours. Within 72 hours, that reinforced brigade drew pre-positioned equipment stored at Camp Doha In addition two Patriot missile batteries from Fort Polk, Louisiana were dispatched to theater.
On 8 October, 1st Force Service Support Group (FSSG), I Marine Expeditionary Force, was put on alert. The 1st FSSG Forward (FWD) was manned up to deploy as the lead element for the 1st FSSG. The FSSG FWD deployed 120 Marines and equipment from March Air Force Base, CA to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia via Air Force Cargo Aircraft on 28 October 1994. The unit then traveled north by convoy to the port of Al-Jubayli. At the same time, the 3rd Brigade, 24th Infantry Division (Mechanized) deployed from Fort Benning GA to the port of Ad-Dammam, which would draw pre-positioned afloat equipment.
Also on 8 October, the 23rd Wing's (Flying Tigers) 75th Fighter Squadron (Tigersharks) and its full complement of A-10s initially deployed from Pope AFB, North Carolina to Dhahran AB, Saudi Arabia, followed by the first forward deployment to Ahmed al Jabber AB, Kuwait. This allowed better face-to-face coordination with tactical air control parties (TACP) assets further forward deployed at Camp Doha, Kuwait and points North. They initiated the first of a series of 120-day rotations for the A-10 community that continued until Operation IRAQI FREEDOM commenced.
The United Kingdom's contribution was two warships, HMS Cardiff and HMS Cornwall, doubling their deployment of RAF Tornado GR1s (originally six) and increasing their troop numbers to 1,000.[6] Elements of the 45 Commando were airlifted into Kuwait. The Commandos operated alongside the 1st Brigade of 24th Infantry Division.
Iraq recalled its ground forces during the last weeks of October. With no remaining need for the combat troops, retrograde began within a few days. The Marines departed from Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, on 5 November 1994. Much of the 24th Infantry Division turned in the pre-positioned equipment and rotated out of Kuwait before Thanksgiving Day, but trail elements remained until the first days of December.... More
People You Remember CPL Brown, SPC Godley, SFC Johnson, SSG Gibson, SGT Adkins, SSG Howard, M., SGT Bugg, SPC Shahid, SGCPL Brown, SPC Godley, SFC Johnson, SSG Gibson, SGT Adkins, SSG Howard, M., SGT Bugg, SPC Shahid, SGT Burson, SPC Reeves... More
Memories SSG Gibson telling me afterward that the mission was dubbed Operation "Just Kidding"
Helping the S-4 SSG Gibson telling me afterward that the mission was dubbed Operation "Just Kidding"
Helping the S-4 and Supply SGT, purchase supplies from Lowe's with the additional $10,000 received on our impact card...lots of heaters, wash tubs, sporting goods, etc.
I also remember waiting at CIF to draw "Desert Issue" and being told we had to go back to our units for further guidance...learning that our mission was put on "hold" as Iraqi Forces retreated north from Kuwaiti Border. We "officially" stood down on 22 October 1994 and we lost the initiative from that point on...until Operation Iraqi Freedom. We can only contemplate what things would be like today if we had ended the conflict with Saddam Hussein then...oh well. ... More
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 64th Ord Co, 197th Ord Bn, 59th Ord Bde was awarded the ASUA for it's service through most of the Cold War (early 60's until deactivation in June 1992) by providing a nuclear deterent. Operation Blow ... 64th Ord Co, 197th Ord Bn, 59th Ord Bde was awarded the ASUA for it's service through most of the Cold War (early 60's until deactivation in June 1992) by providing a nuclear deterent. Operation Blow Torch and Operation Lights Out preceded deactivation and accomplishing the mission. 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 Completion of Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC). For period of 05 May-04 June 1993.
Completion of Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course (BNCOC) Phase 1 and 2. For period of 30 September-19... Completion of Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC). For period of 05 May-04 June 1993.
Completion of Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course (BNCOC) Phase 1 and 2. For period of 30 September-19 December 2003. MoreHide
Best Moment
Sleeping through first formation one morning and waking up to Soldiers coming back from PT. I opened my door to ask one of my friends if my Squad Leader called me out of ranks (who didn't like me) and he said that I was called out of ranks, but 1SG Frasier said I was doing something for him! I went to work trying to think of what I "wasn't" doing and finally decided to stop by his office and tell him I overslept and didn't know what I was supposed to do for him. He told me that he was just covering for me...and just told me not to make it a habit. WHEW!!!
Worst Moment
Sleeping in the Arms Room for over a week while we hastily got all our nuclear warheads removed from the site by air...during severe weather! We were on alert for NAIRA Operaitons and a lot of people were on edge!
Chain of Command
Commander: MAJ Martinucci First Sergeant: 1SG Frasier Platoon Sergeant: SFC Smith (B Platoon) and SSG Binkowski (Headquarters Platoon)
Other Memories
Swimming in Pirmasens, going to the Juke Box, Atlantis, and Big Bens. Wing-Dings and Fries at the NCO Club. Taking PFC Bell to Kitzigen...with the help of my parents, who were in Schweinfurt. The best and worst of times!
Best Friends
SPC Bell, SPC Smith, PFC Thibideau, PFC Goldberg, SGT G, SPC McDermott, SPC Clifford, and lots of others.
Best Moment
Time at the Schwimbad, "The Juke Box" and Berchtesgaden Vacation.
Worst Moment
Sleeping in the Arms Room for days at a time while the "special weapons" were being transferred, and sneaking to Pirmesans to shop at the PX and worrying about "fog guard" on the way back (the fear they couldn't find me and would have to access the weapons/ammo without me present...and the ensuing Article 15).
Chain of Command
Commander: MAJ Martinucci and First Sergeant: 1SG Fraser.
Other Memories
Operation "Blow Torch", Operation "Lights Out" and our farewell party (Operation "Last Gasp")
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
Service in Germany with 64th Ord Co, 197th Ord Bn, 59th Ord Bde, Fischbach Army Depot, Germany. For period of 25 May 1991 to 15 June 1992.
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
Service during Operation Desert Shield/ Desert Storm. For period 02 August 1990 to 30 November 1995.
Best Friends
We were Detachment 1, Company B 169th Forward Support Battalion under the 35th Infantry Division. Drilled at the Council Grove Armory until October 1990, when the Detachment was folded and the whole company started drilling together at the Manhattan Municipal Airport Armory. November 1990 would be my last drill, as I transfered to Title 10 U.S. Army.
Best Friends
PVT Delemar, PVT Chamberlain, PVT Watson, SPC Carter
Best Moment
Fifth Annual AUSA 10-Miler "Run the River Bridges" Washington, D.C.
Worst Moment
Gateway To Excellence (GTE) for 5-weeks and 10 straight weeks of CQ or Interior Guard on the weekend upon leaving GTE!
Chain of Command
Drill Sergeant was SSG Lewis
Other Memories
Getting flu shot the day before flying home and carrying all my bags and luggage through Washington-Dulles Airport in "Class A" Dress Uniform back to Kansas.
Being the last Soldier to ever wear the "Banana Suit" PT Sweats in A Co, 601st Ord Bn. All other Soldiers had turned theirs in for the new "Greys"...except me.
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 MOS 45K10 Tank Turret Repairer on 26 October 1989.
Awarded MOS 55B10 Ammunition Specialist on 17 January 1991.
Best Friends
PVT Phillips, PVT Petrie, PVT Pollack, PVT Powell, M.,
Best Moment
Going to see "The Army Show" on my 18th Birthday with a few select Soldiers...while everyone else had to sit through hours of boring classes on UCMJ! When we returned, a lot of Privates were in the back of the room doing Incline Push-ups, T-Bones, etc, for falling asleep!
Worst Moment
Telling my roommates the night before the Reserve Drill SGT's took over for two weeks that if we impress them the first day, we can have it easy for two weeks...then only two weeks to graduation. My mistakes that next day...left my wall locker unsecured ("I know your name PIKE!!!"), no water in my canteens during inspection...THEN having to tell the Drill Sergeant (who also found the first two gigs) that I also didn't have my M-17 Protective Mask for NBC Qualification with the M-16A1 Rifle! The next two weeks were brutal for me, but easy for the rest of the Platoon!
Other Memories
Prior to the Brigade Command Inspection, it was drilled into our heads that the maximum effective range of an M-16A1 Rifle was 460 Meters. So, during the inspection, LTC Sumner asked me, "What is the maximum effective range of the M-17?"...And I proudly shouted out: "460 Meters, Sir!"
He turned to me and said, "You can throw an M-17 Protective Mask 460 Meters? You must have one hell of an arm!" (snickering, snorts and funny-coughs were heard in the background)...
This earned me the nickname "M-17 Man" from a fellow Soldier!
CSM (ret) Larry Linville, SFC (ret) Lapadre Hampton
16 March 2013...My Last Day!
16 March 2013...Leaving my friends to continue the work without me. Proud, but bittersweet.
Battalion Commander: LTC Jack A. James
Battalion Executive Officer: MAJ Wing Y. Yu
Battalion Command Sergeants Major: Marc Maynard
Company Commander: 1LT Paul A. Singer
Company First Sergeant: 1SG Robert B. Smalley
Out-processing at Ft. Drum, NY, VA Appointments in Syracuse and Watertown, NY.