guns attack summer 2014 newsletter
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Guns Attack Team,
It’s been three months since CSM Thibodeaux and I joined Guns Attack, and we
continue to be impressed daily by the professionalism, commitment and performance of
our Soldiers. This unit has maintained a phenomenal reputation over the years, and our
experiences and observations have only confirmed that the reputation was well deserved.
The past three months have been busy, as the battalion resumed garrison operations
following block leave. The battalion underwent a significant operation at the port of
Beaumont, where our maintainers, along with 615 ASB, assembled and moved 30 aircraft
from the port to Hood Army Airfield. With at one point, 43 AH-64Ds on the airfield, our
aviation maintainers have been “rowing hard”, and deserve our thanks!
This quarter saw significant transitions in key leaders. The Brigade bid farewell
to Colonel Cory and Brooke Mendenhall and family and welcomed Colonel Jeff and
Briana Thompson and their three girls. We thank the Mendenhalls for their leadership and
service to the Air Cav family and look forward to serving with the Thompsons.
Additionally, Guns Attack said farewell to CPTs Kyle Rogers and Omar Villafane and
welcomed CPT Rusty Palmore and CPT Nyisha Taylor to assume command of the Snake
Eyes and Equalizers. This quarter will see additional key leaders depart, as CW4 Max
Merideth and CW4 Sebastian Cosyns retire from Active Duty. We thank them for their
sustained commitment and service to the Nation and wish them all the best in their next
careers! I also want to highlight the accomplishments of 1LTs Kenny Friede and Ward
Baker, and CW2 Andrew Trevino who were named Brigade Officers and Warrant Officer
of the Quarter.
Gun 6 Notes
LTC Scott Myers
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
JUN 2014-
AUG 2014
4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment
The Guns Attack Newsletter
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Bounty Hunters 5
Panthers 6
Diamondbacks 7
Snake Eyes 8
Unforgiven 9-10
Equalizers 11
SHARP 12
Chaplains Corner 13
Retention Corner 14
FRG Corner 15-16
Birthdays 17
Upcoming Events 18-19
Commander of 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, LTC Scott Myers
The remainder of the year will prove to be a busy one. We will begin to transition our training focus from
individual to collective training, while executing Aviation Gunnery in November and Task Force training in preparation
for our training rotation to the National Training Center in February 2015. We’ll increasingly provide aviation assets to
support 2/1 HBCT, the “Blackjacks,” during their extensive training cycle in preparation for NTC and their deployment
to Korea as a rotational unit. We’ll also make significant preparations to excel during the FORSCOM Aviation
Resource Management Survey Inspection in January. Additionally, on 01 October, Guns Attack will welcome E/227 to
the battalion, one of the Brigade’s two Gray Eagle companies. We’ll close this quarter with well-earned time for all of
us to take opportunity leave during the holiday season.
As you can see, this quarter will be a busy one, but our formation will undoubtedly excel throughout, and exit
the quarter as a more highly trained and proficient unit. CSM Thibodeaux and I thank all of the Soldiers of Guns Attack
for your hard work and dedication to the mission and to each other. We also thank our Families for your sustained
support of our #1 resource, our Soldiers. We look forward to our continued service together
Guns Attack!
http://www.facebook.com/taskforce.guns
“GUNS ATTACK!”
Gun 6 Notes
LTC Scott Myers
P AGE 2 4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
GUNS!!
One constant, in this profession we call the Army, is change. We change duty stations, jobs, leaders, and
subordinates. Almost three months ago, Guns Attack went through a change like no other that I have seen in my 22
years of service. The Soldiers of Guns Attack were not only returning from a nine-month rotation in Kuwait, but they
also had to adjust to sharing a hangar with 1st Battalion, immediately make preparations for five Company Changes of
Command, a Brigade Change of Responsibility, and a Battalion Change of Command/Responsibility. The Battalion did
not miss a beat during this seemingly never ending cycle of ceremonies, and still managed to receive equipment from
the port, conduct inventories, and resume flight operations here at Fort Hood.
As we prepare to move into the new fiscal year, the train will continue rolling down the tracks and the pace will
continue to increase as we move into individual training during range week and First Team training. Companies will
conduct stand-alone training and planning missions, in a field environment, in preparation for the Battalion FTX in
conjunction with gunnery in November. We will also continue preparing for the upcoming Aviation Resource
Management Survey that FORSCOM will inspect the Battalion in February.
I want to personally thank every Officer, NCO, and Soldier in the Battalion for everything you do to make this
the best Attack Battalion in the Army. Audra and I are truly honored to be a part of this awesome Army family and look
forward to the next 21 months we have together. I am humbled to be your Command Sergeant Major and want each one
of you to know LTC Myers and I are fascinated everyday watching this great organization at work.
The Character, Commitment, and Competence everyone in the Guns Attack family displays on a daily basis is
amazing and I cannot think of any other place I would rather be at this point in my career.
“GUNS ATTACK!”
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8 4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Command Sergeant Major of 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, CSM Maurice Thibodeaux
Gun 9 Notes
CSM Maurice Thibodeaux
GUNS,
For this quarter’s newsletter, I thought I would focus on the dedication and perseverance of the maintainers who
are working hard to keep these helicopters flying so that we can continue to progress new aviators, grow our own Pilots
in Command and develop new Air Mission Commanders. Every day, our maintainers are out on the hangar floor and
the flight line, focused on ensuring these helicopters are ready for the day’s training flights, and prepared to adjust as
necessary in order to accomplish the mission. Let’s not forget about our small group of maintenance test pilots, who are
on a daily basis verifying that each and every one of these airframes are safe for us to fly. Hats off to all of you!
We are also experiencing a high turn around for the aviators, which is not without challenges. Each aviator that
leaves the unit is experience lost, which is why it is extremely important for the senior aviators to continue mentoring
and training the junior aviators in order to grow them into successful Pilots in Command. Soon enough, the unit will be
conducting an aerial gunnery, followed by a National Training Center rotation at the beginning of the New Year.
Focused is where we need to be, so that the unit can be ready for the next mission that presents itself. GUNS!
“GUNS ATTACK!”
Gun 10 Notes
CW4 Sebastien Cosyns
P AGE 4 4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Battalion Senior Warrant Officer of 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, CW4 Sebastien Cosyns
HHC Bounty Hunters
Bounty Hunters Family,
Bounty Hunters continue to Lead The Way with 1st Team Training,
Promotions, Awards and Family Readiness Group Events!!
HHC, 4-227 Bounty Hunters would like to welcome the new
Commander, CPT Arlyne Shelton, a New Family Readiness Group (FRG)
Leader Mr. Sidney Shelton and a New Battalion Commander and Command
Sergeant Major LTC Scott Myers and CSM Maurice Thibodeaux. We look
forward to all the future training and family events.
Bounty Hunters began the 1st Team Training events with Ruck
Marches followed by critical soldier’s skill tasks and resiliency training. To
date the Bounty Hunters have successfully completed a total of 10 miles of ruck
marching and given roughly 11 classes to include Preventative Maintenance Checks and Services, Maintain Assign
Weapon, Equal Opportunity, Family Advocacy Program and Evaluate/Evacuate a Casualty.
Promotions are what Bounty Hunters receive based on potential and
awards are given to Bounty Hunters who have performed exceptional in their
duties. We would like to mention the following promotions.
Promotion to PV2: PV2 Toledo, Natalia
Promotion to PFC: PFC Edgington, Justin
Promotion to SPC: SPC Fellows-Wong, Meghan; SPC McAllister, Terrance; SPC
Scott, Dylan; SPC Gonzales, Nicolette; SPC Niski, Sean
The honor of being known
as the “Heroes of the Week” is given
to Bounty Hunters whose hard work and determination have been a great
help to our unit. Bounty Hunters would like to make note of the previous
Heroes of the Week: SPC Dominique L. Hughes; SPC Bryden W. Solonar;
SGT Rodriquez Sanders; SPC James L. McCowan; PFC Quiana S.Crawford
and SSG Jason E. Andrew.
It’s the Families of our great unit who are the foundation of Bounty
Hunter Soldiers. Without their consistent love and support we are not as
successful in our endeavors. Mr. Sidney Shelton, Mrs. Julie Brownell, Mrs.
Amber Goodwin and Mrs.
Michelle Gilbert have been
instrumental to the recent successful FRG fundraising event. Bounty Hunters
have held 3 FRG meetings and 2 special fund raising events. Guest Speakers
at the Family Readiness Group meeting have included Mr. Charles Lyons on
Family Readiness Support Assistant, Mr. Billy Bob Cox on Military Family
Life Consultants and Ms. Sylvia Gavin on Debt Management. Our Nacho
Lunch Fundraiser and Community Outreach Coffee and Pastries were are huge
hit with the members of the Guns Attack Battalion and Warrior Brigade.
Keep our families informed like our facebook page HHC, 4-227
ARB, Bounty Hunters FRG and get in contact with Sidney at
[email protected] to see how you can help!
“BOUNTY HUNTERS!”
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Commander: CPT Arlyne Shelton
First Sergeant: 1SG Bryan Oser
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
A CO Panthers
Commander: CPT Chris Stoinoff
First Sergeant: 1SG Kenneth Witmer
Greetings to all Panther and Guns Attack Families!
Since becoming Commander of Alpha Company on June 3rd, I’ve been awed by your loved one’s immense
pride, professionalism, and loyalty to Guns Attack. I am privileged to serve with them, and honored to fight alongside
them on whatever battlefield the future brings. I also wish to introduce the Panther’s new FRG Leader, Mrs. Ashley
Greenhill. Ashley has been a valuable member of the Panther’s FRG and I am excited to see her excel in her new role
as your FRG Leader!
Since returning from Kuwait in April, the Panthers have wasted no time in restarting operations at Hood Army
Airfield. We conducted a company change of command (June 3rd), a battalion change of command (June 10th), and
began proficiency flight evaluations for the majority of our aviators. Our ability to reestablish aircraft currency allowed
the Panthers to be a major contributor in ferrying almost 30 aircraft back from Beaumont, TX!
During the first week of July, the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade
conducted a week of sports competitions dubbed “Warrior Games.” I’m
pleased to report that our company Frisbee team played exceptionally well
and finished 2nd place in the brigade. Thank you to all the Families who
attended the games and supported their Panthers! We concluded the week
with a festive “Spirit of America” run and enjoyed a BBQ in the hangar.
We topped off July with a FRG meeting that discussed the company’s long
range training calendar. I’m excited for our next FRG outing in October!
As we continue to train to proficiency in our mission tasks, we
can’t lose sight of all the wonderful things our Panther’s are accomplishing
outside of the aircraft! A special congratulations goes to PFC & Mrs.
Carlos on the birth of their son, Gabriel Thomas Carlos, on June 8th.
Congratulations are also in order to CW2 Ray Behan and CW2 Jamie Belle
for their selection to CW3! Job well done and best of luck as you advance to levels of greater responsibility!
Congratulations also go to 1LT Ward Baker for his selection as the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade Officer of the Quarter! 1LT
Baker will receive an Army Achievement Medal and is eligible to compete for the Brigade’s Officer of the Year board.
Finally, I am pleased to announce CW3 Joshua Grogan received the Army Commendation Medal on July 3rd in
recognition of his service to Alpha Company, Guns Attack, and the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade. Best of luck to CW3
Grogan and his Family as they start their next assignment at Fort Bliss, TX.
The Panthers will be saying goodbye to some familiar faces as we welcome our new Family members. In
October, CW2 Travis Williams and CW2 Jamie Belle depart Alpha Company, while in November we will say farewell
to CW3 Kyle Ortman and SGT Benjamin West. We recently received SPC James McCurry, SPC Brandon Pohler, and
PFC Kevin St. John from Delta and Bravo companies. We also
gained CW2 Mike Hughes back from Rear Detachment, where he
served with distinction as the Rear Detachment Commander.
Special welcome to our recent arrivals, CW2(P) Jude Okpala and
WO1 Mike Hampton! We look forward to seeing you add to the
legacy of the Panthers! Finally, I wish to announce that 1SG Ken
Witmer is retiring next spring, and will be handing over his duties
to SFC Jason Daniel. Thank you 1SG Witmer for your hard work,
and please welcome SFC Daniel and his Family to the Panthers as
he begins his duties as our new First Sergeant!
Keep up the great work Panthers! I look forward to
reporting on next quarter’s accomplishments!
“PANTHERS!”
P AGE 6
Alpha Company participates in the “Spirit of
America” Run on 03 July 2014.
CPT Stoinoff presents CW3 Grogan with the Army
Commendation Medal.
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
B Co Diamondbacks Commander: CPT Liam Moran
First Sergeant: 1SG Bobby Lucas
Diamondbacks Families and Friends,
It’s been a busy summer for The Diamondbacks of B Co, 4-227 AVN REGT.
Bravo Company supported multiple 1st Cavalry Division training events with air
support to prepare ground units for upcoming deployments. Additionally, the company
played a major role in transporting 22 aircraft from Beaumont, TX to Hood Army
Airfield. B Co also worked to support redeploying units in establishing normal
operations upon their return home.
In July, COL Cory Mendenhall recognized B Co as the Air Cavalry Brigade
Company of the Year for 2014. Furthermore, our own SGT Joshua Reeves was
recognized as the Brigade Maintainer of the Year. We’re proud to have a formation of
professional, hard-working Soldiers who always get the job done.
Many Diamondbacks moved on from the company this quarter to take the next
step in their careers. PFC Anderson, SPC Esparza, SPC Hoke, PFC Pohler, SPC
Dareing, PFC Wheeler, and PFC Worrell all moved to other companies in the Battalion. CW2 Altaffer moved to Ft.
Rucker where he will be an instructor pilot for new AH-64 aviators. SGT Coleman
and SGT Record completed their service to the Army, and transition to civilian
careers this summer. We’re sad to no longer have these Diamondbacks with us, but
wish them all the best as they take the next step in their lives.
We’re glad to welcome new members to the Diamondback family– SGT
Reeves, SGT Reed, SGT Forton, SPC Billingsley and PFC Sheppard join us from
other companies in the Battalion. Additionally, CW3 Ross Small arrived from
Savannah to join our maintenance team as a test pilot.
As summer ends and fall begins, we look forward to several exciting
training events that will build cohesion and challenge our team. In September, the
Dimaondbacks will deploy to the field for our Company FTX, followed by Aerial
Gunnery in November.
“DIAMONDBACKS!”
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
SFC John Haines presents the NCO Sabre to SGT John Record in
recognition of his contributions to The Army and B Co/4-227
AVN REGT
f
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT P AGE 8
It’s the first newsletter since we’ve come back home from deployment, and the Snake Eyes have a lot of new faces.
Over the last month we said goodbye to CPT Rogers as our commander and welcomed CPT Rusty Palmore along with
his wife Kristin his and daughter Halle. CPT Rogers will tackle a new mission in 2nd Battalion, while CPT Palmore is
eager to become a part of the proud history and community that is in place here in Charlie Company. Also joining us
are 1LT Swedberg from the 615th ASB, as well as SPC Wheeler, SPC Allen, and PFC Bass from other companies
within the Battalion. New pilots WO1 Trevino and WO1 Garland joined us from flight school, and CW2 Davis joined
Charlie Company as the newest instructor pilot. They have all jumped in to our organization and immediately made
positive impacts.
Preparations are beginning to ramp up in advance of several big upcoming
training exercises for the Snake Eyes. The maintenance team has been hard at work
getting the aircraft back in top form, as well as supporting other units from across the
Army who have trusted our proud reputation and have given us aircraft to maintain for
them while they transition back from other deployments. Long, hot summer days have
been the norm as crew chiefs and NCOs have spent countless hours conducting
maintenance with inspiring diligence.
On the pilot side, the return from deployment has
brought many new training demands as well. Getting several
new aviators back up to speed and getting everyone ready for
our company FTX in September and the Battalion gunnery
exercise in November has been a challenging task, but the
Snake Eyes pilots are getting better by the day. In the first
week of December the Battalion will head to the field together
for a joint training exercise and the Charlie Company pilots
will be ready!
A couple individual members of the Charlie Company
team really stood out this month, led by SPC Deleon. He was recognized by the Battalion
Commander as the “Hero of the Week” for his outstanding work and leadership while
conducting aircraft maintenance. Also this week we will
recognize SFC Nelson with the Order of Saint Michael for his
incredible career impact on Army Aviation. He has been a core
member of the Snake Eyes team for many years, as well as one
of the most trusted maintainers in the Battalion, and we all wish
him well as he heads to Fort Rucker to become a future Army
Aviator. He may run in to a familiar face at flight school, since our former outstanding
crew chief SGT Ogden is now WO1 Ogden after successfully completing Warrant Officer
Candidate School and is preparing to attend flight school as well.
We would like to wish all the Snake Eyes kids good luck as they head back to
school and thank all the families for their support as we get back in to high gear for our big
upcoming training events. The Snake Eyes are a proud and grateful organization, and we
couldn’t do it without you!
“SNAKE EYES!”
C CO Snake Eyes
Commander: CPT Rusty Palmore
First Sergeant: 1SG Joseph Mungin
SPC Rodriguez simultaneously
inspects a rotor head and smiles
for the camera. That’s talent.
1LT Swedberg conducts
inventories to assume his new
position as Attack Platoon
Leader.
SPC Wolf inspects a weapon
after the company qualified at
the range last week.
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
D Co Unforgiven
Unforgiven Family and Friends, It has been busy times since the end of block leave. Our Soldiers have seamlessly integrated back to Operations
at Fort Hood after a much needed rest. We have relentlessly incorporated aircraft from around the globe to include
Germany, Kuwait and here at Fort Hood. At our highest point, we owned 43 aircraft; double what we are supposed to
have. Aircraft transfers have been on-going and we are now back to a more manageable level. Our 1-227 brethren have
also reintegrated back to Fort Hood and have been lending us a helping hand with the vast amounts of aircraft that we
own.
One of our major operations since our
return was port operations at Beaumont, TX. A
fantastic group of senior and junior Soldiers from
the company spearheaded operations to return 30
AH64Ds to a fully mission capable status. This was
by no means and easy task. Aircraft had to be
offloaded from boats, blades unfolded and
inspections caught up on. Once complete with this
arduous process, the aircraft had to make the
requisite two and a half hour flight back to Fort
Hood. Our maintainers excelled once again and
there were zero aircraft malfunctions or injuries to
one of our Soldiers for the duration of the operation.
Commander: CPT Greg Sterley
First Sergeant: 1SG Joseph Corr
Continued on page 10
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
SPC Cote and PFC Vincent are promoted to the next higher rank
SGT Ramirez, SPC Jenkins and SPC Koff complete services on the Apache 30mm cannon
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
D Co Unforgiven
1SG Corr and I are extremely proud of the 7 Soldiers that have been promoted since our return. One Soldier has
been promoted to PFC (PFC Vincent), two Soldiers promoted to SPC (SPC Cote and SPC Madrid), one Soldier
promoted to SGT (SGT Gomez) and three Soldiers promoted to SSG (SSG Villescas, SSG Meekins and SSG Johnson).
We look forwarded to the future accomplishments of these fine individuals. I would also like to recognize the
outstanding work that two of our finest NCO were recognized for while deployed to Operation Iron Hawk in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SSG Sandberg and SSG Jennings were both recognized for their tireless efforts and
professionalism during our partnership operations with the Saudi Armed forces. Their distinguished service made that
operation a resounding success and both Soldiers received Army Achievement Medals.
Our FRG has been picking up the pace as well since
our return from block leave. We held our first FRG meeting
since redeployment in July and had tremendous support from
many newcomers’ Families. Our Family BBQ fundraiser was
a fantastic event that raised much needed funds for future
activities. One such event was our family day at the Fort
Hood Roller Skating Rink. Our Soldiers and Families had 4
care free hours of family fun. Look out for more exciting
events in the future; we are actively planning a day at the
AH64D simulator and a drive in style movie for Soldiers and
Families. Please send a friend request to our Facebook page,
D Co 4-227 ARB to get the latest updates, photos and more.
Thank you for your unwavering support to the
Unforgiven Team!
Unforgiven!
CPT Greg Sterley
“UNFORGIVEN!”
P AGE 10
SSG Sandberg is awarded the Army Achievement Medal for his
efforts ISO Operation Iron Hawk in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
SPC Castro and Daughter enjoy the Roller-skating Family Day
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
E CO Equalizers
Commander: CPT Nyisha Taylor
First Sergeant: 1SG Jose Ventura
Greetings Equalizers Families and Friends,
The Equalizers remain a happy and proud team
through the change of scenery and leadership.
With the hot summer weather in Texas, we are
enjoying what shade and air conditioning the vehicles and
buildings can provide. We’re working hard in the sun all
over the airfield to help our fellow Companies and Battal-
ions. The Soldiers are also building on their skills in the
school house and training centers to be ready for whatever
challenge comes next.
Our future Non-Commissioned Officers are prepar-
ing to attend Warrior Leaders Course by studying up on
Army knowledge, leading their Platoon in PT and doing land navigation training in a virtual simulator. Congratula-
tions to SPC Nugyen for passing his promotion board this month. His leaders in the motor pool have mentored him to
this point, and the excitement of earning promotable status is a deserving reward while he waits to join the NCO
corps.
We have definitely made the most of our PT sessions this month. One Thursday morning, the Company
separated into teams along a long dirt road and rotated through ten intense stations while carrying their lightest team-
mate on litters. After over an hour of kettle bell squats, weight lifting and cardio exercises, even our toughest troopers
had nothing left.
With all the work we’ve accomplished in the few months we’ve been home many, some Soldiers have stood
out and have been recognized. Among them was SPC Garretson, who assisted in five movement support missions in
which a total of 66 containers were transported in support of 3-227th and our Delta Company. We rely on the steady
hand and endurance of Soldiers like him to conduct safe operations
before the end of the day.
Finally, congratulations to 1LT Mangan on her promotion!
She has led 3/5 Platoon since the Company returned to Fort Hood
and has taken great pleasure in getting to know everybody. As we
enter into next month, we prepare to support upcoming field exer-
cises where we will have many opportunities to do what we do:
deliver the goods.
EQUALIZERS!”
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
LTC Myers presents newly promoted
1LT Mangan with her promotion certificate.
P AGE 12 4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Guns Attack Family,
On 15 October 2013 the Secretary of the Army, Joseph Westphal, Ph.D., addressed the top priorities that he
has for FY14. Listed at # 1 on the priority list was Prevention of Sexual Assault. For the Secretary of the Army to list
Prevention of Sexual Assault on this priority list portrays the following.
1. It is important to our Leaders from the top on down, that Soldiers and their Families members are being educated on
the preventive measures of Sexual Assault.
2. Those individuals that choose to violate the policies put in place will be held accountable for their unprofessional and
unbecoming actions.
3. Everyone at all levels hold the responsibility and obligation to do all they can to safeguard America's sons and
daughters, as well as maintain the rust between Soldiers, Civilians, Families and the Nation.
If there is an incident do not hesitate to report it. There are Sharp Representatives in each unit to include the battalion
Sharp here to assist. Other resources that can be used are the Chaplain and the Medics.
Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & Prevention
BN SHARP: SFC LaCresha Riddle
BN SHARP ALT: VACANT
TITLE RANK FIRST LAST EMAIL
4-227TH ARB SHARP REPS
BN SHARP PRI 1LT Ward Baker [email protected]
BN SHARP ALT VACANT
HHC SHARP PRI SSG Yavel Pereiradiez [email protected]
HHC SHARP ALT 1LT Jeremy Adams [email protected]
A Co SHARP PRI VACANT
A Co SHARP ALT VACANT
B Co SHARP PRI VACANT
B Co SHARP ALT SFC Joseph Smith [email protected]
C Co SHARP PRI CW2 Gregory Kilpatrick [email protected]
C Co SHARP ALT VACANT
D Co SHARP PRI CW2 Janoi Cabrera [email protected]
D Co SHARP ALT VACANT
E Co SHARP PRI SFC Eric Moore [email protected]
E Co SHARP ALT SSG Shawn Gore [email protected]
Dear Friends,
May the peace which passes all understanding be with you! I hope this message finds you well, rested, and re-
energized. I cannot believe it is almost six months since our return from Camp Buehring, Kuwait. It seems like we
returned home yesterday! I hope and pray that you have been able to spend quality time with your family and friends
during these summer months. There is much to be thankful for as we move forward facing the tasks ahead of us.
Many of our companies will be out in the field these next couple of months, but I encourage you to take time to
breath, look around you, and soak in the beauty of the moment. We tend to gravitate to thoughts of the past. We say
things like, “I could have done this better.” “I should have said this instead of that.” “What was I thinking?” We also
have fears and worries about the future, “What do I want to do with the rest of my life.” “Will I make a difference in the
world.” “Will I be able to make my car payment next month,” and so on. All these thoughts are irrational because they
are beyond our reach, out of our control. That is why so often we fear the future and obsess about the past. These kinds
of thoughts paralyze us and stifle our growth spiritually, mentally, and physically as human beings.
There is a wise anonymous saying that states, “My past no longer exists, it is no longer happening and I am safe
today. What I have is this moment going forward, so I will choose to embrace my life.” Every day is indeed a new day, a
new creation by God given to us as gift! All things are made new every morning. We approach the new day with
amends for our past wrongs and are cleansed because God’s unconditional love is merciful and triumphant over
judgment to the one who approaches all things with a humble heart (James 2:13). I invite you to transform your heart
and mind anew in seeing each day as a gift, a new beginning that cleanses all things of the past and sets your feet on new
beginnings for the future.
Planning for the future is something we must do, but how many times do we obsess rather than constructively
plan for the future? This is a question we must reflect on with an honest heart. We can hope for good things for our
future, but we cannot control it. Living in the moment is also living with the realistic approach that we are not in control
of things in the future—that the unexpected will inevitably occur and we must face all things as they come to us. It is in
these moments that we must rely on a higher power to get us through the tough times, and give thanks to that same
higher power when we are blessed with good times. In all things, remember, God is the one in control not us! Fear not
about the future, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper and not harm you…plans for a hope and a
future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Peace,
CH Caruso
Chaplains Corner Chaplain: CPT Robert Caruso
Chaplains Assistant: PFC Dezmon Worth
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
P AGE 14
Retention Corner
GUNS,
As the Army closes out FY14, new changes will be put into place beginning 1 OCT 14. Soldiers will now be
eligible for reenlistment one year from their ETS date. This measure will help the Army during the force alignment
process and will ensure Soldiers receive the maximum options available when they decide to reenlist. Taking care of
the Soldiers and Families still remains a top priority of retention and career counselors are proud to provide the support.
The command team would like to thank friends and Families of 4-227th ARB for supporting your Soldier. Please visit
our Facebook page to view more reenlistment pictures.
-SFC LeFaire
“STAY GUNS”
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
FRG Corner
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
HHC, 4-227 ARB held their FRG meeting on July 17 2014. Shown here is Mr. Sidney Shelton
addressing the meeting of about 75 participants. HHC held a later meeting on August 21 2014 at
the Oveta Culp Hobby Soldier and Family Readiness Center. At this meeting, participants were
briefed on financial readiness. HHC’s next scheduled meeting is 25 September 2014, 1800 hrs, at
Chuck E. Cheese.
Headquarters “bounty Hunters”
hold nachos fundraiser On Friday, August 15, the HHC “Bounty Hunters” held a
Nachos fundraiser to raise money for the HHC FRG.
Pictured are members of the “Bounty Hunters” Family who
helped out.
D Company Hot dog sale D Company FRG conducted a hot dog sale
at the hangar on 1 July 2014. The FRG
raised enough money to rent the Fort Hood
Roller skating rink for an evening of
skating for the entire company on August
22 2014. D Company is commanded by
CPT Greg Sterley and his wife, Jessica, is
the FRG Leader.
FRG Corner
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
FAMILY READINESS SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Charles Lyons (4-227 ARB)
Office: 254-553-7486
Cell: 254-290-0730
Bldg 87016 Rose Bud
MILITARY FAMILY LIFE CONSULTANT
Billy Bob Cox
Cell:254-317-3517
Bldg 87016 Rose Bud Drive
FAMILY READINESS GROUP As always, continue to stay engaged with your
company FRG Leaders on upcoming events and useful
resources with the Battalion and local area. If you have
any questions, comments, or concerns, do not hesitate
to contact your company FRG Leader. If you cannot
contact your FRG Leader, please contact the Family
Readiness Support Assistant, Mr. Charles Lyons at
254-290-0730 or [email protected].
P AGE 16
Volunteers needed
There is always volunteer positions
available within the Family
Readiness Groups. If you have the
desire and the time, we need your
help! Contact your FRG leader
today and inquire about any open
positions within your unit.
WE NEED You!
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8
CO Rank First Name Last Name Date CO Rank First Name Last Name Date
D CO SGT JAMES MEISSNER 2-Sep B CO SGT JOSHUA REEVES 18-Oct
E CO PFC CODY ENNEKING 3-Sep HHC SPC JAMES MCCOWAN 18-Oct
E CO SGT KANE THYNG 4-Sep E CO SPC HENRY SANCHEZ 18-Oct
HHC 1LT EDISON FRITZ 5-Sep D CO SFC EDWARD QUINTERO 19-Oct
E CO SFC SHAWN GORE 5-Sep D CO SSG DAKOTA MARKS 21-Oct
E CO SPC DOMINIQUE HUGHES 6-Sep B CO PFC JOSHUA BROWN 22-Oct
D CO PFC JUSTIN DOODS 6-Sep E CO PFC KYLE CANCIO 22-Oct
HHC PFC GWENEVERE HAYES 7-Sep A CO CW3 SCOTT RONEY 24-Oct
D CO PFC VALORIE JACK 7-Sep HHC SGT KATHLEEN CAPLINGER 24-Oct
D CO SPC AUSTIN HANIKA 8-Sep E CO SGT HERNAN CHEVRES 24-Oct
HHC SPC FERICA NEALY 9-Sep E CO PFC GABRIELLA DENNIS 24-Oct
E CO SPC TIANNA ASHFORD 9-Sep E CO SGT NATHANIEL MURPHY 25-Oct
D CO SGT KEVIN VELAZQUEZ 11-Sep D CO PFC PHILLIP WHITNEY 25-Oct
A CO SPC ROBERT CLOYED 13-Sep C CO SPC NICHOLAS WHEELER 26-Oct
B CO PFC CHRISTOPHER ERWIN 14-Sep E CO PFC TYLER MOREHEAD 26-Oct
C CO SPC ANGEL DELEON 16-Sep E CO SGT DILLARD HUGHES 27-Oct
D CO PFC SAMUEL MARTORANO 18-Sep B CO SPC KYOUNG BYUN 27-Oct
D CO SSG DARWIN JENNINGS 19-Sep E CO SPC RAYMOND GABRIEL 27-Oct
D CO PFC COLTEN POWELL 20-Sep E CO PFC FRANCIS MBITA 28-Oct
HHC PV2 EARL ORANGE 22-Sep E CO SSG LACRESHA MCDONALD 2-Nov
E CO SGT JOSE MUNOZORNELAS 22-Sep HHC SPC WILLIAM BUSH 3-Nov
D CO SSG BILLYJOE SANDBERG 23-Sep C CO SGT GLENN COCHRAN 4-Nov
D CO SPC RYAN SPITZENGEL 23-Sep D CO PV2 RICKY HOLGUIN 5-Nov
HHC PFC JUSTIN EDGINGTON 25-Sep C CO 1LT KENNETH FRIEDE 6-Nov
E CO SPC BRENTON ENG 27-Sep B CO SGT DONALD COLEMAN 6-Nov
E CO SPC ANDREW NGUYEN 28-Sep C CO 1LT THOMAS HAGAN 7-Nov
E CO SPC TERRY MIRMED 29-Sep HHC SSG HENRY HENRY 10-Nov
C CO SPC NICHOLAS WOLF 29-Sep E CO SGT NATHAN BELLARDINI 10-Nov
B CO CW2 NICHOLAS SPRANKLES 29-Sep E CO SGT MATTHEW KEEN 11-Nov
E CO PV2 CHRISTIAN MALDONADO 30-Sep D CO SPC KRISTOPHER JENKINS 12-Nov
HHC 1LT CONNIE ALVAREZ 1-Oct D CO SPC RUSSELL RYDER 12-Nov
HHC SPC JERRY GRIFFIN 1-Oct E CO SPC IVAN ROMO 14-Nov
HHC PFC DINITRA SHANKLIN 1-Oct B CO CW2 JAMES ALTAFFER 15-Nov
B CO SPC HAROLD RAINE 2-Oct E CO PFC TIMOTHY GILREATH 15-Nov
E CO SPC KIRA ROSS 2-Oct C CO SFC DEREK NELSON 16-Nov
A CO CPT CHRIS STOINOFF 3-Oct C CO PFC AUSTIN ALLEN 16-Nov
A CO SPC WILLIAM JARRED 3-Oct HHC CPT JEREMY ADAMS 17-Nov
D CO PFC KELLEN CARTER 4-Oct E CO SPC CHRISTOPHER LU 17-Nov
E CO PFC DUSTIN ZOOK 4-Oct D CO SGT LISANDRO LOPEZMARTINEZ 18-Nov
A CO 1LT BRAD PEARSON 5-Oct HHC SSG RODNEY JENNINGS 20-Nov
E CO SPC KEGAN JACOBSEN 6-Oct D CO PFC MATTHEW VINCENT 21-Nov
B CO CW2 PRESTON CARRINGTON 9-Oct D CO SGT BRYAN RODRIGUEZ 22-Nov
D CO SGT CHETRA CHUM 9-Oct B CO CW2 JOSHUA HARRIS 26-Nov
A CO CW2 CHRISTOPHER GREENHILL 11-Oct D CO SPC ANDY CASTRO 26-Nov
E CO PFC KONSTANTIN ANDREEV 11-Oct D CO PV2 JOSEPH MERTS 26-Nov
D CO PFC ELISHA TOPETE 11-Oct HHC SSG ERIC PITROF 27-Nov
E CO PFC MICHAEL STVICTOR 12-Oct HHC SSG YAVEL PEREIRADIEZ 28-Nov
HHC SFC SCOTT PARSONS 13-Oct HHC SFC JAMES COLEMAN 29-Nov
4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Upcoming Events
P AGE 18
V OLUME 3 , ISSUE 8 4TH BATTALION, 227TH AVIATION REGIMENT
Upcoming Events
30 OCT 14 —Brigade Fall Festival
19 DEC 14 —Battalion Holiday Party at BLORA
RESOURCEFUL LINKS
Fort Hood ACS community calendar for September at
http://hoodmwr.com/acs/Media/2014/082014/092014_Calendar.pdf
Fort Hood Community Service Council flyers at
http://hoodmwr.com/acs/iro_csc.html
Fort Hood Community Resource Guide at http://www.hood.army.mil/Resources
Fort Hood Sentinel at http://www.forthoodsentinel.com
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SANTA'S WORKSHOP
See the link for Santa's Workshop, Fort Hood, Texas. 2014 Applications will
be available on line
on 16 September 2014. http://www.swsforthood.com/