Summer 2014 1

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E 7 9 T H S U S TA I N M E N T S U P P O R T CO M M A N D

S U M M E R 2 0 1 4

FalcoNThe

TRAINED, READY, COHESIVE, WELL-LEDSUSTAINMENT UNITS FOR WORLD-WIDE DEPLOYMENT

79th SSC Best Warriors Chosen!

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Summer 2014

2 The Falcon

79TH SSC Command Team

Commanding GeneralMaj. Gen. Megan P. Tatu

Command Sergeant MajorCommand Sgt. Maj. Robert N. Roberson, JR.

Command Executive OfficerMs. Andrea M. Breyton

The Falcon Contents

Two Star NotesOur Role In The Total Force: By Maj. Gen. Megan Tatu

4

CSM On PointCan’t Accomplish Our Mission Without Trust By Command Sgt. Maj. Robert N. Roberson, Jr.

6

Spiritual FitnessServing something greater than ourselves: By Chaplain (Col.) Robert Ewing

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Ask JagEarly Lease Termination: By Col. Jere Diersing

9

SafetyBring It Home: By Mr. Rickey Payne

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79th SSC Medical MattersDental Readiness: By Col. Sridhar Natarajan

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IDT Travel BenefitBy Col. Arthur Turnier

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Suicide PreventionHave The Courage To Help a Buddy: By Mr. John Orendorff

12

Families In The FightArmy Family Team Building By Ms. Maritza Ramirez

14

Summer 2014 3

79TH SSC Public Affairs Office

Public Affairs OfficerLt. Col. Bettina K. Avent

Public Affairs ChiefSgt. 1st Class James K. Lilly

Public Affairs SpecialistSpc. Heather S. Doppke

The Falcon, a U.S. Department of Defense publication, is published biannually by the 79th Sustainment Support Command Public Affairs Office lo-cated at 4201 Saratoga Ave., Los Alamitos, CA 90720-5170. In accordance with DoD Instruction 5120.4, this DoD magazine is an authorized publica-tion for the members of the U.S. military. Contents of The Falcon are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsedby, the U.S. government or DoD.

SHARPSafe Helpline: By Master Sgt. Sophia Mendoza

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90th SB Trains at WarfighterBy Sgt. 1st Class Scott Turner, 343rd MPAD

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481st TC Leaves Port for JLOTSBy Capt. Fernando Ochoa, 311th ESC PAO

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364th ESC Holds NCO Induction Ceremony By Capt. Christopher Larsen, 364th ESC PAO

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Operation Freedom Memorial DedicationBy Sgt. Debrah Sanders, 366th MPAD

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Training The ForceThe Combat Support Training Program: By Col. Gregory Mosser

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Manning The ForceARCD - Shaping our Future Force: By Lt. Col Paige Malin

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79th SSC Best Warrior CompetitionBy Spc. Heather Doppke, 79th SSC PA Specialist

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4 The Falcon

Two Star Notes:

Our Role In The Total ForceOver the past few months, the leadership of the 79th Sustainment Support Com-mand has been engaged in several activi-ties requiring a “deep dive” into many of our Individual Soldier Readiness reporting metrics. As we continue to analyze these measurements, it is essential that leaders understand and convey that whole num-bers and percentages are NOT our focus. What these data points represent IS. Be-hind every whole number is a Soldier who freely obligated himself/herself to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. In order to fulfill this most solemn duty, we are asked to maintain conditions of employment that include being physically fit, trained in our duties and responsibili-ties, and current in our professional military education, among other requirements. As I listened to Command Teams brief their unit readiness, it was evident they were actively engaged in managing their Soldier issues. Engaged leadership, right down to the squad level, is key to retaining our finest Soldiers, but what other factors, that affect retention, should we as leaders be looking for? I would offer the following as a guide:

a. Command climate is crucial in re-taining quality Soldiers. No one wants to stay in a unit where he or she does not feel respected and valued. The following con-

tribute to that climate: esprit de corps, treat-ing everyone with dignity and respect, pride in the unit, active Equal Opportunity and SHARP programs, and the regular conduct of Command Climate Surveys – to include the follow-on discussion with Soldiers regarding the results. Another great tool to help understand and improve unit climate is the effective use of the Master Resilience Trainers and an active Ready and Resil-ient Program – a program that teaches our Soldiers valuable skills that they can use in every aspect of their life to achieve balance and “hunt the good stuff” in their lives.

b. As important as command climate is the quality of training that we offer our Soldiers. We must continue to be in-novative in developing training programs that balance mandatory training require-ments with our METL training, so that our

Behind every whole num-ber is a Soldier who freely obligated himself/herself to support and defend the Constitution of the United

States.

By Maj. Gen. Megan Tatu79th Sustainment Support Commanding General

 

Summer 2014 5

Soldiers feel their time is being used effec-tively and we are able to maintain the high quality of the Reserve force. This includes adhering to the highest standards in every-thing that we do – whether it is manning a truck for an exercise, submitting Soldier pay on time, or conducting an Army Physi-cal Fitness Test – and we must ensure that we have solid systems in place to recog-nize those who exceed the standards in their work and their dedication. c. We must continue to work on pro-grams that integrate our Families and employers, so that our Soldiers have the support they need to focus on their mis-sions. We must ensure that we are plan-ning and executing high-quality Family Day events, and strive to recognize employers who actively support our Soldiers, some-times at great cost. Recognition of our volunteers helps to ensure that they know how much we value their time and efforts.

d. We are able to offer some finan-cial incentives to our Soldiers right now that may encourage them to stay in and serve. While we have been offering Lodging in Kind for several years, we must make sure that everyone is aware of the new IDT Travel Policy, which reimburses Soldiers on Battle Assembly who travel over 150 miles – does everyone in your formation know if they are eligible and how to receive that benefit?

As the Chief of the Army Reserve, Lt. Gen. Talley has stat-ed, “never before has the role of the Citizen Soldier been more essential to the success of the Total Force and the

nation than in today’s resource-constrained environment.”

e. Finally, but in no way any less im-portant, we must make sure that we are able to effectively communicate all of this to our Soldiers – and there are many ways that leaders can do just that – unit newsletters, social media, media coverage of unit events – all serve to get the word out about what we do and why we do it. We can recognize those who are doing a great job and make sure that others are aware of their contributions.

As the Chief of the Army Reserve, Lt. Gen. Talley has stated, “never before has the role of the Citizen Soldier been more essential to the success of the Total Force and the nation than in today’s resource-constrained environment.” Our Soldiers are men and women who have been care-fully trained and represent a huge invest-ment on the part of the United States Army Reserve. For our effectiveness and rel-evancy as a component of the Total Force, for our future, we must do all that we can to retain our committed, professional Soldiers.

To Do For Country!

6 The Falcon

Can’t Accomplish Our Mission without TrustBy Command Sgt. Maj. Robert N. Roberson, Jr.

Trust that you and your Families are in the best of health and spirits. And as always, I ask that we not forget the sacrifices of our Fallen Warriors, Wounded Warriors, War-riors and our Civilian workforce still in the fight, and their Families. Know that ALL are in our daily thoughts and prayers…never to be forgotten.

There is no way to minimize the workload and responsibility each command contributes on a daily basis…we are BUSY!!! Under-standing our roles and responsibili-ties at each echelon of command allows for better communications, improved working relationships, and a solid command climate. Busy times require us to be that much more diligent ensuring we establish a culture of dignity and respect in our work places. We’ve found the need to be reliant on each other, basing our professional relationship on trust. Trust- as-sured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of some-one or something - we can’t accom-plish our mission without trust.

Transformation, restructuring, reor-ganizing, training requirements and accountability are just a couple of topics of revisited discussions in our everyday lives. As part of the Army, and spe-cifically the Civilian workforce and the Army Reserve Soldier, we find ourselves gearing up for changes that undoubtedly will have second and third order effects in our civilian capacity. Keep tabs on your Battle Buddy, stay informed and as much as possible, be cognizant of the impact those around you may be endur-ing.

As we transition into the hot summer months remember our Army Reserve Safety “Bring it Home” campaign. I challenge each of you to ensure the ut-most diligence when engaging in activ-ity where safety sometimes becomes an afterthought. Don’t let it happen to you, your Family member, or Battle Buddy.

Finally, I welcome our new Soldiers to our ranks and salute those who’ve left. To ALL, it’s an honor and privilege to serve alongside each and every one of you. Stay focused and stay SAFE…HOOAH!!!

CSMPMA!!!CO

MMAN

D SE

RGEA

NT M

AJOR

ON PO

INT HOOAH Soldiers!!!

Summer 2014 7

Spiritual FitnessChaplain (COL.)Robert Ewing79th SSC Chaplain

we have all heard that or maybe even said it. It is a way to express that which we cannot always describe but we know we have experienced. Something that we know is real, yet in many ways difficult to put into words. It happened for a group of us when we took the time to visit the WWI Memorial in Kansas City. For many of us it was truly a time and place in which we connected with our faith and honored the sacrifice of those who have walked the Soldier path before us. There in the presence of the towering me-morial we shared something greater than ourselves, an experience simply beyond words, yet felt in our soul. We approached from below the hill, climbing step after step. Our legs were telling us there had to be an easier way to reach the memorial. Yet with each step we were drawn in by the grandeur, and no one was going to turn around. The size alone is overwhelming, measuring 488 feet by 48 feet. It tells the story of WWI from the begin-ning, to end in an era of great peace. Atop the wall is this inscription: “These have dared bear torches of sacrifice and ser-vice: Their bodies return to dust, but their work liveth forevermore. Let us strive on to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.” For a time we were silent, each to their own thoughts and faith, yet we had to push on to meet the rest of the group. We were headed to the glass bridge, but we did not have a map and we were just hoping to find someone to direct us. It was not until we were standing atop the bridge, looking at the poppies, that we realized we were already where we needed to be. Again we were quiet, each to our own thoughts, yet each connected through our shared journey as a Sol-dier and people of faith. The bridge and poppy field at the memorial were inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields.” And there we were, standing atop the glass bridge, looking down on the field of poppies, each of us remembering in our own way those who have led the way. I was first reminded of my grandfather who served in WWI; he passed away many years ago. I was

reminded of the 36 candles we lit while in Afghanistan to remember the fallen in our unit. It was a reminder of all who have gone before us, and in remembering, in sharing the experience with others, I am a differ-ent person. My faith is a little deeper, my spirit a little stronger for having spent time honoring those who served. It was a good reminder that in serving some-thing greater than ourselves we get back much more than we would otherwise get from just ourselves.

“Serving something greater than ourselves”-

Unit Ministry Teams from the 4th and 451st Expedition-ary Sustainment Commands pause for a group photo

before touring the National WWI Museum in Kansas City.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow, Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

In Flanders Fields

8 The Falcon©2014 Paid for by the United States Army. All rights reserved.

ARMY RESERVESGT Antwan Smalls25U Signal Support Systems Specialist Instructor

CIVILIANRegional Prophet Field Software EngineerEngility Corporation

THE ARMY RESERVEWHERE ARMY ANDCIVILIAN LIFE CONNECT.

In the Army Reserve you can build your civilian life while keeping all the benefits you’ve earned. If you transition to the Army Reserve, you’re guaranteed deployment deferral for two years, giving you more time with family and friends. You may also qualify for a $20,000 bonus. And since your skills are valued by civilian employers, you’ll gain an edge in the workplace, too.

To learn more, speak to a Reserve Component Career Counselor or visit goarmyreserve.com/hood

As Army Reserve Soldiers, members of the 79th Sus-tainment Support Command proudly bridge the gap between Military and Civilian communi-ties. Living and working as both Citizens and Soldiers not only fundamentally binds our forces to the Nation they serve, but also enhances unit capabilities by applying civilian experience to military specialties.

Additionally, Army Reserve Soldiers bring their military skills and training to the civilian workforce, as well as their in-grained Army Values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Integrity and Personal Courage.

The 79th Sustainment Support Command’s

Sphere of Influence232 Units in 19 States

Summer 2014 9

Col. Jere Diersing79th SSC Staff Judge Advocate (SJA)

Q. I heard I can terminate my lease if I’m in the military. Is this true? A. Maybe. Your main reference is the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), 50 U.S. C. App. Section 535, which says you may terminate a residential lease if: you are entering active duty service for the first time; you have received deployment orders for more than 89 days or permanent change of station orders; you are an activated Reservist or National Guardsman and you signed the lease prior to your active duty.

Q. Are there requirements for how to terminate the lease? A. Yes. To terminate the lease you must deliver a written notice of termination to your landlord, along with a copy of military orders. You may deliver the notice by hand, private business carrier, or mail to the desig-nated address of the landlord. If you mail it, you should send it “return receipt requested.” If you hand deliver, make a copy for your records and ask the landlord to sign and date the copy. Q. When do I stop paying rent to the landlord? A. Once you have properly terminated the lease by notification to the landlord, the effective date of a lease that requires monthly payments is 30 days after the next scheduled rental payment. EXAMPLE: Service-member Sam pays rent on the first of each month. Servicemember Sam hand delivers his termination notice and a copy of his orders to the landlord on 5 January. The next payment of rent is 1 February. The effective day of the termination is 1 March. Q. My lease doesn’t require monthly payments. When do I stop paying rent? A. Once you have properly terminated the lease by notification to the landlord, the effective date of a lease that does not require monthly payments is the last day of the month following the month you gave the landlord your termination notice and orders. EXAMPLE: Servicemember Samantha mails her termination letter and military orders, return receipt requested, to her landlord. The landlord receives and signs for it on 5 January. Servicemember Samantha’s effective date of termination is 28 February.

Q. My landlord wants more money. Can he do that? A. It depends. He can’t charge you a termination fee BUT he can demand payment for any taxes, sum-monses, or other obligations and liabilities of the lessee (you) in accordance with the terms of the lease, includ-ing reasonable charges for excess wear, that are due and unpaid at the time of termination of the lease.

Q. What about business leases? Does the SCRA help me there, too? A. Yes. The SCRA applies to a residential, professional, business, agricultural or similar purpose occu-pied, or intended to be occupied, by a Servicemember or a Servicemember’s dependents.

Q. What if I have more questions? A. Schedule an appointment with a legal assistance attorney.

Ask Jag:

Early Lease Termination

10 The Falcon

Mr. Ricky Payne79th SSC Command Safety Office

Safety: “Bring It Home”

The 79th SSC and subordinate commands have implemented the “Bring It Home” Campaign. Post-ers, memorandums, pictures and other documents are being placed on bulletin boards in support of this campaign. Videos and other campaign training will soon be presented to our Soldiers to encour-age each Soldier to “Not Leave Their Professional Discipline Behind” when returning to their civilian status. Statistics indicate Soldiers in a duty status are less likely to be involved in an accident. In a duty status you must have professional discipline. Though similar hazards are encountered in military and civilian life, Army Reserve Soldiers typically do not die while conducting hazardous operations on duty. Professionalism is the difference. “BRING IT HOME” (Don’t Leave Your PROFES-SIONAL DISCIPLINE Behind) is a safety campaign initiated by Lt. Gen Jeffery Talley, Commander, Army Reserve. The campaign was initiated because in FY13 over 93% of USARC fatalities occurred in a non-duty status. This statistic makes it clear that you, as a professional, while in a duty status are more safety conscious than when not in a duty status, e.g. “Life as a Citizen”. The campaign goal is to have a minimum of 10% reduction of fatalities

while not in a duty status. The campaign’s intent is to have you bring home your professional discipline to your “life as a citizen,” to your family and to your job. The campaign is directed towards increasing your awareness that military skills and professional discipline are effective counter measures for hazards encountered in “life as a citizen”. Soldiers are ex-pected to wear the “professional discipline” portion of the uniform, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The following general list of military to civilian safety issues will give you a start for making com-parisons you can use: military weapons to civilian weapons, military convoy to family travel, military HAZCOM to home poison control, military risk management to home/hasty risk management, PMCS/motor pool operations to POV/POM ser-vices, military hearing conservation to home hear-ing conservation, FTX/bivouac to camping/outdoor recreation and the list can be expanded on as you consider your non duty activities. As always, the 79th SSC Safety Offices are here to help you understand and make spot risk assess-ments on your way to implementing the “Bring It Home” campaign as a part of your civilian Life.

Summer 2014 11

Col. Sridhar Natarajan79th SSC Medical Advisory Office

79th SSC Medical Matters

How is dental readiness determined and why is it important?The dental fitness classification is the primary measure of a Soldier’s dental readiness. The commander can use the dental fitness classificationof unit personnel as an index of dental preparedness and to identify individuals who will require treatment during mobilization. The ArmySelected Reserve Dental Readiness System (ASDRS) provides dental treatment for Class 3 AR Soldiers, and annual exams for ALL ARSoldiers outside of mobilization. The DOD Dental Classification Guideline and AR 40-35 outline the following dental fitness classifications:

Standardized Dental Fitness Classifications*Class 1: Worldwide Deployment with no further treatment required.Class 2: Worldwide Deployment with need for non-urgent routine treatment.Class 3: Nondeployable without treatment for urgent conditions that likely will cause a dental emergency within 12 months.Class 4: Nondeployable with no examination documented within the past 12 months.

*A Synopsis of Reference: DoD Health Affairs: Policy 02-011 on the Standardization of Oral Health and Readiness Classifications, 4 June 2004

HOW DO I GET MY FREE DENTAL CARE?Pick up your phone and call your UnitAdministrator (UA), or call 1-800-666-2833to get the ball rolling. Go to the U.S. ArmyReserve Command Surgeon web page atwww.us.army.mil/ suite/page/51950, for more information.

DENTAL READY = MISSION READY

Class 1 or 2 AR Soldiers, don’t become aClass 4. Maintain your readiness bygetting a FREE annual exam. See yourUnit Administrator today, or call 1-800-666-2833 for an appointment.

ATTENTION AR SOLDIERS!

FREE DENTAL CARE is now available for Class 3 and 4 Conditions!Army Reserve

How is dental readiness determined and why is it important? The dental fitness clas-sification is the primary measure of a Sol-dier’s dental readiness. The commander can use the dental fitness classification of unit personnel as an index of dental prepared-ness and to identify individuals who will require treatment during mobilization. The Army Selected Reserve Dental Readiness System (ASDRS) provides dental treatment for Class 3 AR Soldiers, and annual exams for ALL AR Soldiers outside of mobiliza-tion. The DOD Dental Classification Guide-line and AR 40-35 outline the following dental fitness classifications.

Standard Dental Fitness Classifications*Class 1: Worldwide Deployment with no further treatment required.Class 2: Worldwide Deployment with need for non-urgent routine treatment.Class 3: Nondeployable without treatment for urgent conditions that likely will cause a dental emergency.Class 4: Nondeployable with no examination documented within the past 12 months.*A Synopsis of Reference: DoD Health Affairs: Policy 02-011 on the Standard of Oral Health and Readiness Classifications, 4 June 2004

Dental Readiness

Col. Arthur Turnier79th SSC Comptroller

IDT Travel Benefit

The Army Reserve (AR) has established a new program for select Troop Program Unit (TPU) Soldiers. Soldiers assigned to a critical UIC/MOS/position/rank and who live over 150 miles one way may be eligible. The official distance Sol-diers travel to their IDT location is determined using the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD), located in Defense Travel System (DTS) web application under “Administrative > Calcu-late Distance.” The Inactive Duty for Training

Travel Reimbursement Program (IDT-TRP) al-lows selected Soldiers to be reimbursed $300 for travel and travel related expenses. Only twelve (12) reimbursements are authorized per calendar year or fiscal year per Soldier. Soldiers eligible for the IDT Program are automatically eligible for the 79th SSC Lodging-In-Kind (LIK) program. Sol-diers authorized for the IDT travel program are paid by a local voucher submitted through DTS.

12 The Falcon

Mr. John Orendorff79th SSC Suicide Prevention Program Manager

Suicide PreventionThe Army Reserve is committed to reducing the number of suicides in the ranks and among the entire US Army Reserve Family. This includes Sol-diers, DA Civilians, and Family Members. Leaders at all levels are engaged in this effort. To carry out this effort, Commanders are responsible to imple-ment and maintain a proactive Suicide Prevention Program as required by the Department of the Army DCS G-1 Army Suicide Prevention Program. Under United States Army Reserve Command (USARC) direction, the 79th SSC Commanding Of-ficer will establish and maintain a Suicide Preven-tion Program (SPP) for the 79th SSC. The Suicide Prevention Program Manager (SPPM) serves under the G-1 to develop and implement the SPP, provid-ing professional counsel and advice on this pro-gram. The mission for the 79th SSC Sui-cide Prevention Program is to re-duce or eliminate suicidal behaviors and help promote healthy lifestyles. To accomplish this mission all units within the 79th SSC will actively participate in training activities that increase suicide preven-tion awareness and remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of distress in the Force. Our goal is to train four Soldiers per unit to be certified in Ap-plied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and two per squad in Ask, Care, Escort, Suicide Intervention (ACE-SI), to include leadership, over the next two years. We will develop unit level initia-tives that promote anti-stigma and Soldier well-being by leadership actively engaging in promoting life. Appointed SPP unit representatives, Company, Battalion and Brigade level will provide supervision and support of this program. ESC level SPPMs will report directly to the SPPM of the 79th SSC. The

SPPM will advise the 79th SSC Commander, staff and subordinate commands on suicide prevention, intervention and after care action impacting on the unit and its operations. Proactive and Concerned Leadership are the foundations of a successful Suicide Prevention Pro-gram. Officers, NCO’s and Civilian staff must work diligently to build supportive environments free of stigma that encourage distressed individuals to seek the help they need without negative repercussions. Leaders and subordinates at all levels must take the opportunity to make an effort to understand the people they work with and attempt to get to know them on a personal level. We all need to recognize the potential signs and respectfully ask the tough questions about life’s problems, potential suicidal

thoughts, excessive alcohol and drug use and any other signs of instability or self-destructive behav-ior. Leaders should publicly encourage their subor-dinates to seek professional help, then stay actively involved with them until the problem is resolved. Every Soldier and Civilian should know the warn-ing signs, their responsibility to intervene and how to access resources. Leaders should also recognize when they themselves need to get help. It is important to remember to SPEAK UP if you’re worried. If you spot the warning signs of sui-cide you may wonder if it’s a good idea to say any-thing. What if you are wrong? What if the person gets angry? In such situations, it is natural to hesi-tate but anyone who talks about suicide or shows other warning signs needs immediate help. Talking

The four pillars of the Army Reserve Suicide Prevention Program are:1. Providing resources to geographically dispersed personnel2. Educating the entire force3. Reducing stigma associated with asking for help with mental health issues4. Involving Families in suicide prevention training

Summer 2014 13

to a friend, colleague, or Family member can be difficult, but if you are unsure whether someone is suicidal, the best way to find out is to ask. You can’t make a person suicidal by showing that you care. In fact, giving a suicidal person the opportunity to express his or her feelings can provide relief from loneliness and pent-up negative feelings, and may prevent a suicide attempt. ACE is the Army-approved suicide prevention and awareness training model. ACE is approxi-mately one and one half hours long. The key train-ing objective is awareness training (risk factors and warning signs). IAW AR 600-63 ACE training is conducted annually. US Army Public Health Com-mand (PHC) Provisional has developed training fo-cused at: Soldiers, Lead-ers, DA Civilians and Families. Completion of training for Soldiers and Leaders will be docu-mented in the Digital Training Management System (DTMS) and the Individual Training record. It is expected that 100% of available Soldiers and DA Civil-ians will complete this annual training require-ment. ACE-SI is a four hour training designed for junior leaders and first line supervisors. Upon completion a certificate will be issued and recorded in DTMS. This training allows those working closely with Soldiers and DA Civilians to intervene and get an at-risk person the help they need. The ASIST training is a two-day intensive, in-teractive course designed to recognize and review risk, and intervene to prevent the immediate risk of suicide. The single most important thing to remember

about Suicide Prevention is that Leadership starts at the team level. Communicating with Soldiers, Civil-ians, and Family Members is the key to reducing Suicide Behaviors and promoting healthy lifestyles. Remember to talk to Soldiers and Civilians; listen to what they have to say. Send the message that you are interested in hearing about the Soldiers’ and Civil-ians’ problems (create a trusting environment). En-courage healthy lifestyles (i.e. fitness, adequate rest, good nutrition, and stress management). Emphasize that seeking help in times of distress displays cour-age, strength, responsibility, and good judgment. Foster an environment of self-care and peer support (a Battle Buddy System), and finally, early interven-tion and treatment leads to faster recovery.

Some Warning Signs are:1. Threatening to hurt or kill self2. Looking for ways to kill self3. Seeking access to pills, weapons, or other means4. Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide5. Hopelessness6. Rage, anger, seeking revenge7. Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking8. Feeling trapped-like there’s no way out9. Increasing alcohol or drug use10. Withdrawing from friends, family and society11. Increased anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep, marked sleep disturbance12. Dramatic changes in mood13. No reason for living, no sense of purpose in life14. Giving away of personal possessions

Military Crisis Line (24/7) 1-800-273-8255

Fort Family (24/7)1-866-345-8248

Providing Resources and Referrals for USAR Soldiers and Family members

14 The Falcon

Ms. Maritza Ramirez79th SSC Family Programs Director

Army FAmily Team Building

FAmilies in the Fight

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. - The 79th Sustainment Support Command Family Programs held their first Army Family Team Building (AFTB) seminar at their headquarters here, on May 17, 2014. The AFTB program is an Army Community Ser-vice Program that is designed to answer questions about the Army and its benefits. The three-part AFTB program is a progressive program offered to Army Family members. The program begins with Military Knowledge, then Personnel Growth and Resiliency, and ends with Leadership Development. AFTB promotes self-reliant military Families which reduces Soldier stress and increases mission readiness. “I highly recommend taking AFTB Level-1 no matter how many years as a military spouse you have. You will learn basic military knowledge like chain of command, courtesies, mili-tary benefits and entitlements,” said Maritza Ramirez, 79th SSC Family Programs Director and AFTB program coordinator. “The spouses will also learn military acronyms and terms. It’s hard for some spouses to understand a conversation when the Soldier is using words like rally point, XO or CG. We’ll explain a lot of them so the spouses and Soldiers can start speaking the same language.”

Once the family member has a basic understand-ing of military life, the Level II class focuses on leadership training. “These classes build on your experience and equip you to lead family members and volunteers within your unit and other organiza-tions. Level III assists your transition from leader to mentor/advisor,” said Ramirez.

AFTB’s goal is to teach family members to calmly and confidently deal with stressful situations, inform them about what the military has to offer, teach them leadership and management skills, learn problem solving strategies and help them work through issues that may arise at home due to a de-ployment or dealing with everyday military life.

Military OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defenseto service members and their families to help with a broad range of concernsincluding money management, spouse employment and education, parenting and child care, relocation, deployment, reunion, and the particular concerns offamilies with special-needs members.

www.militaryonesource.mil1-800-342-9647

Summer 2014 15

FAmilies in the Fight

16 The Falcon16 The Falcon

Best Warrior 2014The 79th SSC sends it’s Best Soldiers ForwardStory and photos by Spc. Heather Doppke79th SSC Public Affairs Specialist

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – The U.S. Army Reserve’s 79th Sustainment Support Command hosted their 2014 Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos and Camp Pendleton, Calif. 2-4 May. A total of seven Army Reserve Soldiers competed for the title of 79th SSC “Best Warrior.” The Best Warrior Competition seeks out the best candidate that defines a U.S. Army Soldier by testing Soldiers physically and mentally. The competition consisted of one enlisted Soldier and one Non-commissioned Officer from four separate one-star commands, which fall underneath the command and control of 79th SSC. At the conclusion, one Soldier and one NCO were named the 79th SSC Best Warriors and will represent the command in the U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition held at Fort Dix, N.J. This year’s competitors included: Staff Sgt. David Gonzalez, a wheeled vehicle mechanic of the 137th Quartermaster Company, 155th Combat Service Support Battalion, 304th Sustainment Brigade, 311th ESC. Gonzalez has been in the military for nine years and is a native of Tujunga, Calif. Sgt. Lance Clifford, an intelligence analyst of the 364th ESC, has been in the military for almost four years and is a native of Helena, Mont. Sgt. Hector Corea, a public affairs specialist of the 366th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 451st ESC, has been in the military for five years and cur-rently resides in Wichita, Kan. Sgt. Damian Robinson, a motor transport opera-tor of the 356th Transportation Company, 383rd Quartermaster Battalion, 647th Regional Support Group, 4th ESC. Robinson has been in the Army for six years and currently resides in Dodge City, Kan. Cpl. Elizabeth Bridges, a transport management coordinator of the 711th Transportation Company, 483rd Transportation Battalion, 650th Regional Support Group, 311th ESC. Bridges has been in the Army Reserve for one year and currently resides in Santa Maria, Calif.

Staff Sgt. David Gonzalez, 311th ESC Best Warrior Competitor, answered questions during the essay portion of the Best Warrior Com-petition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 2 May.

Spc. David Bass, 364th ESC Best Warrior Competitor, performed push ups during the Army Physical Fitness Test portion of the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 3 May.

Summer 2014 1717Summer 2014

Spc. David Bass, a motor transport operator of the 419th Transportation Company, 191st Combat Service Support Battalion, 96th Sustainment Brigade, 364th ESC. Bass has been in the Army Reserve two years and resides in Salt Lake City, Utah Spc. Benjamin Wentz, a shower/laundry and cloth-ing repair specialist of the 974th Quartermaster Com-pany, 372nd Quartermaster Battalion, 647th Regional Support Group, 4th ESC. Wentz has been in the Army Reserve two and one-half years and resides in Canyon, Texas. This competition and what it entails isn’t anything new to these Soldiers. Each of these Soldiers had to earn the right to compete at the 79th SSC’s BWC. They first had to compete and win at similar events held by subordinate commands, and although many of the events are reoccurring, the Soldiers have a lot to take from these competitions, “…as we continue to train my knowledge expands and it not only benefits myself, but it benefits my soldiers and any other soldiers that I’ll be over one day,” said Bass. Upon arrival the Soldiers inprocessed and then at-tended the opening ceremony. Immediately after, the competition began with a written essay, which tested not only their Army knowledge but also tested them on their writing skills and how well they were able to convey their thoughts. Following the essay was their board appearance, which is an intense event, judged by

Sgt. Lance Clifford, 364th Best Warrior Competitor, being inspected by the command sergeants major during the board appearance for the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 2 May.

Sgt. Lance Clifford, 364th Best Warrior Competitor, assembled weap-ons during Mystery Event one of the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 3 May.

Sgt. Hector Corea, 451st Best Warrior Competitor, plotted points for the Land Navigation course during the Best Warrior Competition at Camp Pendelton, Calif., 4 May.

Continued on page 30

18 The Falcon

Master Sgt. Sophia Mendoza79th SSC SHARP Representative

SHARP Sexual Assault Prevention and Response

The Department of Defense (DoD) Safe Helpline is a groundbreaking crisis support service for members of the DoD community af-fected by sexual assault. Safe Helpline provides live, one-on-one support and information to the worldwide DoD community. The service is confidential, anonymous, secure, and available worldwide, 24/7 by click, call or text — provid-ing victims with the help they need anytime, anywhere.

Safe Helpline provides help in 5 ways:

Online HelplineSafe Helpline provides live, confidential help through a secure instant-messaging format at SafeHelpline.org. The website also contains vital information about recovering from and report-ing a sexual assault.

Telephone HelplineSafe Helpline also provides live, confidential help over the phone — just call 877-995-5247. The Telephone Helpline staff can even trans-fer callers to installation/base Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs), Veterans Ben-efits Administration (VBA) Coordinators, Mili-tary OneSource, the National Suicide Preven-tion Lifeline, and civilian sexual assault service providers. The phone number is the same in the U.S. and worldwide via the Defense Switched Network (DSN).

Text for InfoSafe Helpline can provide you with referrals by text to your mobile phone. You can text your zip code or installation/base name to 55-247 (inside the U.S.) or 202-470-5546 (outside the U.S.), and Safe Helpline will text back contact

Safe Helpline - DoD’s Crisis Support Service

https://www.safehelpline.org/

Summer 2014 19

SHARP Sexual Assault Prevention and Response

Safe Helpline - DoD’s Crisis Support Service

https://www.safehelpline.org/

information for the SARC on your installation/base and other resources available on and off base. *Message and data rates may apply.

Safe HelpRoomSafe HelpRoom is a group chat service that allows sexual assault survivors in the military to connect with one another in a moderated and secure online environment at SafeHelpline.org.

Safe Helpline AppThe Safe Helpline Mobile App (for iOS or Android) allows sexual assault survivors in the military to create a customized self-care plan and connect to resources from anywhere in the world.

You can use the self-care exercises and information in the app whenever you’d like. Your personalized plan will be stored only on your mobile device so it will remain completely confidential. Once you download the app, you don’t need an internet con-nection to use it.

Safe Helpline services (click, call, text) are owned by the DoD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) and are operated through a con-tract by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. However, your information will re-main confidential. RAINN will not share your name or any other personally identifying information with SAPRO or your chain of command, unless required by law.

RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE) in partnership with over 1,100 local rape crisis centers nationwide. RAINN also runs the National Sexual Assault On-line Hotline (online.rainn.org). Together, the hot-lines have helped more than 1.9 million people since 1994.

20 The Falcon

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - It’s 3 a.m. on April 2nd and Camp Pike, a U.S. Army Reserve center, is bustling with over 150 90th Sustainment Brigade (SB) Sol-diers from Little Rock, Ark., and from all over the country. Their mission - to support combat sustain-ment operations at Exercise Warfighter 14-04 at Fort Bragg, N.C. Hundreds of olive green duffle bags are weighed and loaded for transportation; personnel need to be accounted for and last minute details attended to and everything made ready for a 5:30 a.m. flight to Bragg. As this is their yearly An-nual Training, this is the big exercise and training event for these Soldiers to sustain the warfighter in theater and to make sure everything their customers need, they have. To put this exercise into perspective, a sustainment brigade is the heartbeat and the driving force behind the battle. The 90th SB orders and tracks all types of sup-plies to ensure everything that gets ordered is actually received by their customer, the Soldiers fighting the battle. They ensure all units have what they need when they need it. “Warfighter” is the culmination of the Army Force Generation (ARFORGEN) cycle. The 90th SB is entering their available year and is now available for deployment. They need to be trained as well as they can be to be available for any upcoming deployment, said Col. David Hammons, 90th Sustainment Brigade commander. The Warfighter exercise offers the best opportunity to train as a brigade staff to be ready for our available year, he said. In addition to training together, Hammons ex-pressed the interest in bringing back a trained and ready staff that can work together with updated Battle Drills ‚ preprogrammed responses and actions to

specific events. Through these drills, the 90th will be able to update their Standing Operating Procedures (SOPs) and to hone their individual Soldier skills, ready to perform any mission they’re called to do, mentioned Hammons. Getting Soldiers trained and confident in their ability to actually perform their job can be some-what difficult, but it’s not an insurmountable task and Warfighter is doing an excellent job at this. Lt. Col. Robert J. Markiewicz, Deputy Command-

90th SB Trains at Fort Bragg Warfighter343rd Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentStory and photos by Sgt. 1st Class Scott Turner

Col. David Hammons coachs the 90th Sustainment Brigade members on the finer points of supply tracking and briefing techniques while at Fort Bragg, N.C. Annual Training, April 7, 2014.

er for 90th Sustainment Brigade, expressed that the Warfighter exercise should be viewed as an excel-lent opportunity to gain the knowledge of how our systems, operations and warfighter functions work. In addition to using the exercise as an opportu-nity, Markiewicz mentioned they’ll be bringing back to Camp Robinson lessons learned and using the experiences gained at Annual Training to develop a training plan to increase each Soldier’s individual knowledge. This exercise is a learning experience for the 90th, as most exercises are for many units. They’ll be incorporating some of the functions at Warfighter 14-04 that will restructure how they conduct their monthly battle assemblies. “I’ve seen a lot of progress in the past few days

Summer 2014 21

from these Soldiers,” said Markiewicz. “I know where they were starting and they’re slowly making the climb and we’re heading in the right direction. If they continue with their efforts they’ll be a lot better off at the end of the exercise and as we continue to train, we’ll be better prepared for the next training oppor-tunity.” “The heartbeat of any sustainment brigade is with support operations, which is the primary role of the Special Operations (SPO) section,” said Lt. Col. Donna Worthy, Assistant SPO and Chief of Distribu-tion and Integration of the SPO Section. “I feel confident that all our Soldiers are ready to perform,” said Worthy. “In addition to their opera-tion’s challenges, the 90th are also short several officer positions and many of their NCOs are serving in two or three positions, so we’re stretched thin,” she said, and this could delay getting a commodity to the cus-tomer. Worthy also wants to give all their Soldiers a hands-on experience, not just the school house experience, but have them actually en-gage with the higher head-quarters and companies. “Our Soldiers are highly trained and they know what they’re doing, and this is going to be a great exercise and a great opportunity for our Soldiers,” said Worthy. Command Sgt. Maj. Lorne Quebodeaux, 90th Sustainment Brigade Com-mand Sergeant Major, put it this way, “The biggest

Hundreds of bags are waiting for loading at the Little Rock National Airport prior for leaving for An-nual Training to Fort Bragg, N.C.

thing for Soldiers to realize is that they did receive the training to do this. Some of the Soldiers have not done this as part of their job and our younger Sol-diers lack confidence to go out and do it, but I really

expect them to excel in handling their job here,” said Quebodeaux. Sgt. Maj. Bobby Hall, Senior Logistician non-commissioned officer, feels this will be an excellent training opportunity for all his Soldiers. “This exer-cise will help us come together as a team, and be able to understand what a sustainment brigade actually does,” said Hall. 'If they will take this as a mission rehearsal in our ready year, when they come out of this, they’ll be ready.” What many Soldiers actually don’t realize, men-tioned Hall, is the 90th is now operating under new doctrine; the mission command concept. They’re taking this new concept and proving it will actually work for a sustainment command, he said. Since Warfighter 14-04 is a computer exercise, they

need to be trained on the way the Army and Army Reserve orders and tracks supplies go-ing in and out of theater. One way is by using special-ized logistical tracking databas-es known as Command Post of the Future (CPOF) and Battle Command Sustainment Sup-port System (BCS3). CPOF, by definition, is an ef-fective way to share live infor-mation between units that are not co-located that does not involve sending hundreds of emails between the operators. BCS3 is the primary system for tracking commodities between all US military services and is primarily used by the Marines and Army. For senior Army Reserve leaders, training could be chal-lenging, but the 90th Sustain-ment Brigade is getting it done and done right. Warfighter 14-04 has been a challenge -

just like any exercise should be - but the 90th SB has successfully stepped up and met this difficult challenge head on.

90th SB Trains at Fort Bragg Warfighter343rd Mobile Public Affairs DetachmentStory and photos by Sgt. 1st Class Scott Turner

22 The Falcon

The 481st TC Leaves Port for JLOTS Exercise Story by 1st Lt. Fernando Ochoa 311th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

OXNARD, Calif. - Members of the 481st Transpor-tation Company (Heavy Boat) left Naval Base Ven-tura County, Port Hueneme, March 10th aboard two Landing Craft Utility 2000 vessels en route to the Port of Anchorage to participate in the Joint Logis-tics Over The Shore (JLOTS) exercise April 2-5. JLOTS is the process by which rolling stock and containers of military cargo are moved from ship to shore utilizing an unimproved port. The 481st TC is one of two Army Reserve heavy boat companies operating the LCU 2000 vessel. Each vessel, the U.S. Army Vessel Monterrey LCU 2030, piloted by Warrant Officer 2 Douglas Fuchs, and the USAV Malvern Hill LCU 2025, piloted by Warrant Officer 2 Kyle Oga, is manned with 16 personnel. “This will be good training to show that U.S. Army Reserve personnel can jointly work with the Army active component,” said Fuchs. “I also look forward to working with members of the other services with an Army watercraft vessel.” This joint military exercise provided a demonstra-tion of how U.S. military equipment and supplies can be quickly moved ashore when port facilities are nonexistent, damaged or too primitive for ships to off-load their cargo at a pier. The exercise scenario simulated a 9.2 magnitude earthquake, causing major damage to the Port of Anchorage infrastructure. Since 90 percent of the commodities entering Alaska process through this port the need for JLOTS is established. “JLOTS is a unique mission, which is critical to successful operations ashore,” said Oga. “Not a lot of Soldiers get a chance to experience a long voyage and to work a ship to shore mission, so the training that will happen will be very valuable.” This exercise brought together multi-agency partners who pooled their expertise and trained jointly to improve the nation’s combat readiness and the military’s force projection and disaster response capability.

The 481st TC mobilized and deployed three heavy boat detachments from 2003 to 2006. They also deployed in 2011, 2012, 2013 and are currently de-ploying a detachment to Kuwait in support Operation Enduring Freedom. This unit has been awarded a meritorious unit citation.

22 The Falcon

Summer 2014 23

Warrant Officer 2 Douglas Fuchs, pilot of the U.S. Army Vessel Monterrey LCU 2030, and Warrant Officer 2 Kyle Oga, pilot of the USAV Malvern Hill, LCU 2025, left Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme March 10th to participate in the Joint Logistics Over The Shore exercise. (U.S. Army photo by Lt. Col. Steven McLaughlin)

The 481st TC Leaves Port for JLOTS Exercise Story by 1st Lt. Fernando Ochoa 311th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

23Summer 2014

24 The Falcon

364th ESC Holds NCO Induction CeremonyStory by Capt. Christopher Larsen 364th ESC PAO

“In the end, it comes down to: ‘I’ve got to rely on the Soldier next to me, and he has to rely on me,’” Brashears said. “You have to work together as a team.” Col. Dwight Ortiz, the 364th ESC’s deputy com-manding officer, told the noncommissioned officers - all sergeants and staff sergeants - to rededicate themselves. “Rededicate yourselves today to leading Soldiers,” Ortiz said, “leading the mission and to showing oth-ers how it’s done.

MARYSVILLE, Wash. - The 364th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, a U.S. Army Reserve unit headquartered here, held a Non-Commissioned Officer Induction Ceremony Feb. 23. Fourteen new and current noncommissioned officers were inducted into the corps at the event, which was attended by more than 100 Soldiers and Family mem-bers. Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Brashears, the 364th ESC’s senior enlisted adviser, served as host of the cer-emony.

24 The Falcon

Summer 2014 25

364th ESC Holds NCO Induction CeremonyStory by Capt. Christopher Larsen 364th ESC PAO

A true leader is, in fact, a formidable follower,” Ortiz added. This was the first Non-Commissioned Officer In-duction Ceremony the 364th ESC has had in several years. Organizers said they plan to make them a regular occurrence. According to the U.S. Army Center of Military History, noncommissioned officers in the ranks predate the formal organization of the Continental Army in 1775; colonial militias featured noncom-missioned officers as early as the 1600s.

Ortiz gave the new inductees some final words of instruction.“Lead others,” he said, “and move forward in a dynamic way.”

Fourteen sergeants and staff sergeants were inducted into the Noncommissioned Officer Corps at a 364th Expeditionary Sustainment Command ceremony on Feb. 23, 2014.

25Summer 2014

26 The Falcon

A bronzed Soldier looks on at a “battlefield cross.” A dedication ceremony, which took place May 17, in Wichita, Kan., was open to the public and family members of deceased service members.

Operation Freedom Memorial Dedication CeremonyStory and photos by Sgt. Debrah Sanders366th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

WICHITA, Kan. - It’s a pleasant summer day. The grass is green, the sky is blue, the wind is minimal. Runners enjoy this sort of weather. Some chose to run the river walk that runs along the Arkansas River today. In the midst of their route, they might be taken off guard by a gathering in the Veterans Memorial Park that lines the river walk area. For today, for many families, is a day to immortal-ize the memory of the service members that gave the ultimate sacrifice from Operation Desert Storm, up through the current ongoing conflicts. Operation Freedom Memorial is the brainchild of Gold Star Mother Anita Dixon. Dixon lost her son, Army Sgt. Evan Parker, during Operation Iraqi Freedom in October 2005. Sometime after his death, she took a walk through Veterans Memorial Park. “I thought, its much too quiet here,” said Dixon. It was then she got the idea to create a memorial to honor those Kansas service members that had passed away. She said she wanted their names to echo through the park, and to be remembered. The project began in 2008, said Dixon. She recruited several local business owners to help her, including a local construction contractor, John Wilson. “I had no idea what I was getting into,” said Wilson. “The initial cost was going to be $300,000,” Wil-son said. Wilson and Dixon, with the help of several local businesses and volunteers, got the cost down to $133,000. “We held every type of fundraiser you can imagine,” said Wilson. After almost six years, their project is finally complete. The memorial consists of a black granite wall with the names of over 90 service members that have passed during the included conflicts. In addition, there is a bronze statue of a Soldier looking at a battlefield cross. A battlefield cross consists of boots, a vertical rifle, and a helmet. “It was a very rewarding journey, and I have grown stronger everyday,” said Dixon. Dixon said she felt she need to do this to honor all the fallen, including her son.

When asked what her son would say about this proj-ect, Dixon said, “He would say Mom never quits. If you have a job that needs to be done, she will complete it.”

Summer 2014 27

A bronzed Soldier looks on at a “battlefield cross.” A dedication ceremony, which took place May 17, in Wichita, Kan., was open to the public and family members of deceased service members.

American Legion and VFW riders stand watch during a dedication ceremony of the Operation Freedom Memorial, May 17, in Wichita, Kan. The memorial bears the names of deceased service members that have died during the recent war on terror.

Members of the Wichita Junior Reserve Officer Train-ing Corps present the colors, May 17, 2014. The Kansas Young Marines were also present to help with the setup of the event in Wichita, Kan.

Operation Freedom Memorial Dedication CeremonyStory and photos by Sgt. Debrah Sanders366th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Dixon was not alone in reflecting, and remember-ing those lost. The ceremony was open to the public, and many families attended to view the memorial and

see their service members names‚ engraved into the memorial. Never forgotten.

28 The Falcon

Col. Gregory Mosser79th SSC Operations

Training The Force

The Combat Support Training Program (CSTP), which encompasses both Warrior Exercises (WAREX) and Combat Support Training Exer-cises (CSTX), is the Army Reserve’s most complex training program for sustainment units. With the USAR deployment pace slowing consid-erably, units must maintain their performance edge, and exceptional training is the key. The intent is for the CSTP to meet that training need; however, cur-rent CSTP exercise operations leave significant areas for improvement. Addressing these areas is the objec-tive of an ongoing effort to redesign the exercises. The thrust of the effort, which Soldiers will see phased in over FY15 and FY16 exercises, includes the following:

- More realistic training. Sustainment units attending a WAREX or CSTX in the past have frequently found their mission at the exercise was something radically different than their doctrinal mission. In other cases, a unit may be performing its wartime task, but have an entire company on the ground when a single platoon is the right size element for the scope of the mission. Both of these situations can be addressed by involving the entire mission command chain earlier in the exercise planning process and by enforcing greater stability in the exercise task organization up to a year in advance.

- Better integration of automated systems. When deployed, sustainment units regularly use systems such as BCS3, CPOF, TC-AIMS, SAMS-E, and soon GCSS-Army—in addition to communications tools like e-mail and SharePoint. At a WAR-EX or CSTX, the usage and support of these systems varies, and units can spend substantial time simply attempting to establish basic functionality, let alone full capability. While some of this setup time mimics entry into an austere environ-ment, the goal is to make the exercise architecture more consistent from exercise to exercise in order to reduce or eliminate exercise-induced confusion.

- Exercise sustainment planning by sustainment experts. In theater, sustainment brigades, ESCs, and TSCs plan and execute high-level support operations. Why not use their planning expertise to structure and direct the appropriate sustainment task organization for WAREX and CSTX? Not only will this engage brigade and above level Support Operations sections in large scale planning efforts, but it will also allow the Training Commands to focus on their role as the supported maneuver commander. Beginning in FY15 and even more so in FY16, brigades and ESCs will take on the responsibility for exercise sustainment planning.

These are but a few of the types of changes that will be instituted over the next several years, along with many other en-hancements. When these elements are fully in place, sustainment units will experience a more realistic, more challenging exercise that will sharpen the training edge they need to maintain.

The Combat Support Training Program

U.S. Army Spc. Rheana Martinez, a transportation management coordinator with the 957th Move-ment Control Team, shows Cpl. Cristina Vides, a transportation management coordinator, how

to properly input Travel Risk Planning System tickets into their tracking system, which tracks unit movement in and out of the base, during the Combat Training Exercise at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-

Lakehurst, N.J., Feb. 22, 2014. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Heather Doppke/released)

Summer 2014 29

Lt. Col. Paige MalinArmy Reserve Careers Division, 11th BN CDR

Manning The Force

The Army Reserve Careers Division (ARCD) and its 13 Battalions have an important strategic mission in growing, shaping and sustaining the overall end strength objective (ESO) of the Army Reserve. The ESO is needed in order to maintain the enduring operational force the Army Reserve has become over the last 13 plus years of consistent conflict. There are over 1,400 motivated and professional Army Reserve Career Counselors (ARCC) – commonly known as ‘retention NCOs’- located throughout the United States, its territories, Europe, and in the current Southwest Asian Theater of Operations with Army Central Command. In general ARCCs have two missions. First, they need to fill vacancies in the ranks of Army Reserve units. This is done by prospecting for and contacting officers as well as enlisted Soldiers that have transitioned into the Inactive Ready Reserve (IRR). Once contacted, the ARCCs are experts at informing them on the incentives and benefits that come with re-affiliating with the Army Reserve. It’s difficult to convince IRR Soldiers that the education and training they gained from their Active Duty experi-ence, along with their knowledge, skills and abilities they bring from their civilian careers, are sought after and highly valued in the Army Reserve. It’s also difficult to fill unit vacancies, if unit Command Teams fail to advertise vacant positions and they don’t have or refuse to have a profes-sional working relationship with their local ARCC. The ARCC’s second mission is to keep Warrior Citizens in the ranks of Army Reserve units by conducting reenlist-ments. They are also charged with being able to understand and explain all the career progression opportunities the Army Reserve has to offer, conduct reception, retention and exit interviews and assist Command Teams in recovering unsatisfactory participants. These are important missions and they can’t be done by the ARCC alone. It requires a team effort that includes the entire chain of command. It has to start with the First Line Leader, include the Unit Administrator (UA) or Senior Staff Advisor (SSA), be overseen by the local supporting ARCC and must have Command Team emphasis. In order to be successful, Command Teams need to understand that retaining Soldiers in the Army Reserve begins with new Soldier sponsorship. Sponsorship is a com-mander’s program. The requirements and responsibilities for a quality sponsorship program are outlined in AR 140-7. ARCD can assist Commanders by sending members of our Quality Assurance Teams to conduct sponsorship train-ing for you. Contact your local ARCC for details on how to schedule QAT training for your unit. Maintaining a positive command climate and purpose through meaningful training and sound leadership will also

help retain your Soldiers. Leaders set the climate. A positive command climate is rooted in trust, creates commitment and teamwork, is sustained only through routine affirma-tion and reinforcement by the entire chain of command and leads to mission and Soldier success. Indicators of a positive climate are increased retention and reenlistment rates. Though reenlistment is primarily a Command Team activity, continued emphasis by Battalion, Brigade, and General Officer level commanders on the importance of good communication between company Command Teams and the local ARCC with regard to having visibility on their reenlistment eligible population will produce measurable results. Good communication however, needs to be rein-forced with Command Team involvement and presence at reenlistment ceremonies. Another way to increase reenlistment and retention rates is to select and train a Duty Appointed Reenlistment NCO (DARN). Although the local servicing ARCC is the sub-ject matter expert on all career related issues Soldiers face, DARNs can be a vital link in your retention and reenlist-ment programs. Commanders need to appoint, in writing, a part-time additional duty Retention NCO. The selected NCOs should have at least 12 months retainability in the unit and not possess a primary MOS within the 79 career management field (CMF). In addition to the recruiting and retention mission, ARCD has other responsibilities, such as our Career Management and Officer Production teams. The Career Management Office (CMO) provides comprehensive career management to Troop Program Unit (TPU) officers and warrant officers in order to maximize the number of educationally qualified and professionally developed Army Reserve officers prepared for successful career progression. The ARCD officer production element, known as the Special Missions team, is tasked with prospecting and packeting Soldiers for Army Reserve officer producing programs. For instance, ARCD Special Missions NCOs assist Army Reserve Soldiers to become Warrant Officers, get a direct commission or earn a commission by attending Officer Candidate School. It’s imperative Command Teams seek out, get to know and employ their local supporting Army Reserve Career Counselor. Make them part of your special staff. Get to know their roles and responsibilities and understand how they can assist you with your personal readiness goals. If Army Reserve units are not ready, they won’t remain rel-evant and they won’t be deployable when called to assist in fighting and winning our Nation’s wars.

Army Reserve Careers Division Shaping Our Future Force

30 The Falcon30 The Falcon

five command sergeants major. From the minute they enter the room these Soldiers are being judged on their appearance, overall posture, how they walk to their seats, their execution of facing movements, and on their confidence in answering questions. They’re expected not only to be knowledgeable on the overall facts and history about the Army and being a Soldier, but also on what’s going on in the world today. Day Two began bright and early with the administration of the Army Physical Fitness Test. The APFT is designed to test the Sol-diers on their strength and endurance. Surpassing the maximum points in every category and making the APFT extended scale, Corea and Bass took first place for each rank. Next the Soldiers moved onto the Engagement Skills Trainer 2000, where they zeroed and qualified for both day and night fire with the M-4. The EST 2000 provides realistic marksmanship and combat scenario training for the 12 most common small arms and crew-served and individual anti-tank weapons in the Army inventory. Following the EST 2000, the Soldiers then moved onto their Mystery Events, and without knowing what’s next to come, they definitely needed to keep their motivation and energy high. For Clifford his motivation is, “not wanting to lose, you don’t show up for these things wanting to lose, if you come with that kind of mentality you shouldn’t be there, and so whenever I was getting really tired or really wanting to kind of just slow down or take it easy I just had to keep reminding myself why am I here? Why am I here? And just drive on.” The first event was an approximate one mile run to the mystery event location. Once there the Soldiers were to assemble, clear, functions check and reassemble a M-9, M-4, 249, 240B and then answer five questions on weapons. The Soldiers were timed from the start of their run to answering their final question. For Mystery Event Two, the Soldiers were tested on their skills and knowledge in Combat Life Saving by demonstrating how to prevent and control shock on a casualty. Then onto their final Day Two Event, Combatives, which was NCOs versus NCOs and Soldiers versus Soldiers. Even though every Soldier gave it all they had, Clifford and Wentz were the overall victors. Upon the final day of the competition the Soldiers were driven 75 miles to Camp Pendleton, Calif., to compete in the last two events. The first was the 10 kilometer road march, which was conducted in full “battle rattle” to include helmet, weapon, and a rucksack weighing a minimum of 35 pounds. The final event was the Land Navigation Course, in which the Soldiers were to plot and find five points that were spread over a seven mile radius. Bass came in first at two hours and 15 minutes and second was Clifford at three hours and eight minutes. Although these Soldiers spent three days giving all they had

Staff Sgt. David Gonzalez, 311th ESC Best Warrior Competitor, and Sgt. Damian Robinson, 4th ESC Best Warrior Competi-tor, grappled during combatives for the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 3 May

Sgt. Hector Corea, 451st Best Warrior Competitor, ran downhill during the Ruck March for 0the Best Warrior Competition at Camp Pendelton, Calif., 4 May.

Continued from page 19

Summer 2014 31

Staff Sgt. David Gonzalez, 311th ESC Best Warrior Competitor, and Sgt. Damian Robinson, 4th ESC Best Warrior Competi-tor, grappled during combatives for the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 3 May

Sgt. Hector Corea, 451st Best Warrior Competitor, ran downhill during the Ruck March for 0the Best Warrior Competition at Camp Pendelton, Calif., 4 May.

31Summer 2014

competing against each other, in the end they still see each other as teammates. Clifford said, “the comradery among the competitors, even though you’re there competing against each other, you’re also at the end of the day…help each other out and that’s really more like a…I think a testament to the comradery of the people in U.S. Military and the U.S. Army, that you can be competing against each other but still help each other out, I think that’s my favorite aspect of it.” The three day competition, both physically and mentally demand-ing, was finally over and the Soldiers were brought back to the 79th SSC to await the final announcement of the winners. Maj. Gen. Megan P. Tatu, Commanding General of the 79th SSC, held an award ceremony to thank all the competitors and announce one Soldier, Bass, and one NCO, Clifford, as the 79th’s Best Warrior’s. Bass and Clifford will now represent the command in the U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Compe-tition held at Fort Dix, NJ.

Spc. David Bass, 364th ESC Best Warrior Competitor, performed first aid on a casualty during Mystery Event two of the Best Warrior Competition at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, Calif., 3 May.

32 The Falcon

EditorThe Falcon79th SSC Public Affairs Office4201 Saratoga AvenueLos Alamitos, CA 90720-5170

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