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Vol. 5, Nr. 17 U.S. Army Garrisons Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels, Ansbach, Schweinfurt, and Garmisch September 2, 2009
GARMISCH
TRAINING
Garrison MP’s train
Local BOSS program wins big at Army-wide level
by MELISSA WOLFF USAG Grafenwoehr BOSS president, Cpl. Robert Shom- est accolades was the Netzaberg Middle School’s
with local Garmisch Assistant Editor per and Command Sgt. Maj. William Berrios, command
sergeant major for USAG Grafenwoehr, accepted two of the children in Netzaberg schools have parents
Polizei During the 2009 Department of the Army Better Op- of the six awards given to BOSS programs Army-wide,
portunities for Single Soldiers annual conference in Lees- bringing home the “Best Event” award for a large com- shoes, BOSS participants “wanted to give (the stu-
PAGE 10 burg, Va., Aug. 10-15, the U.S. Army Garrison Grafen- mnuity and runner-up for “Best Installation” award. dents) someone to hang out with … have a good
woehr BOSS program raked in two prestigious honors. The event that won the Grafenwoehr program its high- See SOLDIER Page 29
HOHENFELS
STAY SAFE
Families bid
farewell as Sol-
diers from Team
Salazar takes reigns of JMTC by Capt. JP REBELLO
Apache depart for JMTC Public Affairs
Afghanistan “Brig. Gen. Salazar as-
sumes a unique and prodigious
PAGE 13 responsibility today as he takes
command of the Joint Multi-
national Training Command
ANSBACH – the only place in the Army
GOOD SHOPPING that trains with Joint, Multina-
tional, and Coalition partners,”
Spouses’ and civil- said Gen. Carter F. Ham, com-
mander of the U.S. Army Eu-
ians’ club re-opens rope and Seventh Army, Aug.
28. “I can tell you that he is
improved Katterbach well-prepared and ready for
thrift store the challenge.”
Ham addressed a crowd of
PAGE 22 German dignitaries, Grafen-
woehr community members
and U.S. Soldiers at the U.S.
SCHWEINFURT Army Garrison Grafenwoehr
Parade Field to welcome
CONVERSATIONS Brig. Gen. Steven L. Salazar
as the new commander of the
Acclaimed travel 7th Army Joint Multinational
Training Command.
author visits commu- Salazar takes command of
nity, inspires JMTC after commanding the
Coalition Military Assistance
readers, writers Training Team as part of the
Multinational Security Transi-
PAGE 25 tion Command, Iraq.
“It is an honor and a privi-
lege for me to stand here as
IN THIS ISSUE the Commanding General of
the Joint Multinational Train-
ing Command,” said Salazar.
“Having just re-deployed from
a land where the trees are non-
existent, the beauty of Bavaria
is a welcome change.”
Headquartered in Grafen-
woehr, the 7th Army JMTC is
the largest training command
outside the continental Unit-
ed States. It provides a full
View photos of the spectrum of training for U.S.
18th Combat Sustain- forces, NATO allies and mul-
ment Support Battal- tinational partners in Europe,
ion Headquarters and Africa, and Asia.
Headquarters Com- “We are a country at war,”
Photo by Michael Beaton said Salazar. “It is an ever-
pany as they return to Gen. Carter Ham (left), Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, entrusts Brig. Gen. Steven Salazar (second
U.S. Army Garrison that our Soldiers have to face.
Grafenwoehr Aug. 29 - The speed with which JMTC
after completing one can adapt its tactics, tech-
ing General, Salazar will oversee all Army training in Europe, as well as serve as the senior mission commander niques and procedures to the
of the Army’s last 15- for Army communities in Bavaria. See INCOMING Page 29
month deployments.
For more photos
of the redeployment
ceremony, visit www. Quick Hire for military KONTAKT awards salute service
- brings American servicemembers, family mem-
spouses begins this month
USAEUR Press Release
bers, civilian employees and German citizens
U.S. Army Europe showed its appreciation for 40 together to provide opportunities to learn each
PAGE 4 years of continued support to Soldiers and host com- about other’s countries and cultures. KONTAKT
munities during the 24th annual KONTAKT confer-
by GERRY J. GILMORE Clubs sponsor U.S.-German community events,
ence. provide educational programs and support Sol-
What you’re American Forces Press Service
USAREUR is in transition, and KONTAKT Clubs diers and their families.
Under a personnel rule that takes effect next month, are also changing to meet the needs of Americans Membership in any of the 21 community-
looking for some military spouses could be quickly hired for fed- across Germany, said Maj. Gen. Byron S. Bagby, based groups is open to anyone willing to ac-
Opinion Editorial 2-3 eral jobs without going through the usual competitive USAREUR chief of staff, during an address at the tively promote German-American friendship.
process. conference’s awards dinner. The clubs operate under USAREUR guidance
News 4-8, 29 The KONTAKT Club outreach program connects
The new hiring authority takes effect Sept. 11. The -
What’s Happening 14-15 USAREUR Soldiers, family members and civilian tions.
Travel 17 employees to host nation citizens in communities According to data from the USAREUR
posted in the Federal Register under the title: “Noncom- where the Army has- or had - a presence, the general
Medical 18 petitive Appointment of Certain Military Spouses.” said. 2,000 KONTAKT members who provide ap-
Blackhawk News 20 The intended effect of the rule, according to docu- proximately 80,000 volunteer hours annually
Movies 30 ments listed in the Federal Register, “is to facilitate active in communities where there are no more U.S. to support stronger German-American relations
the entry of military spouses into the federal civil Army facilities,” he said. through programs and special events reaching
AAFES 31 See SPOUSE Page 29 The KONTAKT program, established in 1969, See CLUBS Page 29
2 Bavarian News Opinion & Editorial September 2, 2009
COMMANDER’S MESSAGE
Your feedback through the AFC survey, Customer
Service Assessment fosters improvement
W
e begin this month by per hour for care.
welcoming our new senior IMCOM published guidelines that
commander, Brigadier General became effective last month for use of
Steve Salazar. Fiscal Year 2009 EFMP respite care funds
His arrival comes at a to further standardize and expedite service
key period as we prepare delivery.
units for war, receive Please contact our FMWR EFMP
units from combat and program director, Jay Velis at 476-2733 (CIV
review how well we are
doing as a community. eligibility, allowable respite care hours and
There are two cost per month.
components to this Respite Child Care is an FMWR CYSS
vital community program that offers a temporary break or
assessment that need time away for parents. Families of deployed
all of our input: the Soldiers and Warriors in Transition are
Customer Management eligable to receive 16 free hours of child
Assessment that reviews garrison services care (per child, per month).
and USAREUR’s Army Family Covenant September is also Suicide Prevention
(AFC) survey. Month. Please read about one local Soldier’s
This past month, we provided the struggle with suicidal thoughts and seeking
largest turnout for IMCOM-E’s face-to- help on page 6.
face AFC group sessions. Now we need to Army Values include Personal Courage,
complete the CSA and AFC surveys to fully and this informative article bravely shares
understand how we can improve. a personal experience in order to encourage
Please go to our web at www. others to seek help. Photo by Florian Radeck
grafenwoehr.army.mil for both surveys. Suicide prevention is something that we Community leaders and members admire the Better Opportunity for Single Soldiers
The theme for this year’s AFC is must remain vigilant about. We can remove awards Aug. 21 at a community relations ‘pig picking’ on East Camp. The event
“Keeping the Promise.” Some examples the stigma of seeking mental health care
of AFC programs doing just that are the through awareness and understanding.
We recently recognized our Year of the Bundeswehr NCOs, as well as community leaders and BOSS members.
Exceptional Family Member Program
Respite Care and Respite Child Care NCO by partnering German community partnerships with our Bavarian counterparts. Sustainment Support Battalion.
programs. leaders and Bundeswehr NCOs with some We have bid farewell to two separate These units and Soldiers have clearly
EFMP Respite Care provides a temporary of our own NCOs and BOSS Soldiers at a companies: the 12th Chemical Company shown what it means to be “Army Strong.”
rest period for Family Members who are community relations ‘pig picking’ on East (now at Schweinfurt), the 535th Engineer
responsible for the regular care of persons Camp. Support Company (now at Bamberg), and A Col. Chris Sorenson
with disabilities. Qualifying Families are This successful German-American Co, 2/66th MI (now at Hohenfels).
eligible to receive up to 40 hours of funded partnership event shared how we value We also welcome home the last of our Commander, U.S. Army
our NCOs and single Soldiers. As a result, 15-month deployed units - Lt. Col. Roscoe
Family Member and can receive up to $45 we have found new areas to enhance our and the members of HHC, 18th Combat Garrison Grafenwoehr
CSM CORNER
Help us keep our battle buddies, children safe
by reducing speed, staying ‘strong’
I to congratulate
our Better
Opportunities for Single
The Army’s ‘I A.M. Strong’ campaign gives us the tools
needed to prevent sexual assault. We all have a duty to
speed limits.
Ignorance to these speed limits
is not an excuse.
While driving, pay attention
Soldiers program which
was recognized Army-
Intervene before an assault happens; Act on behalf of our to the changes in speed limits
in order to prevent points from
wide at the annual BOSS fellow Soldier; and Motivate each other to prevent the crime being assessed to your USAREUR
conference Aug 10-15. driver’s license.
Our program received of sexual assault. Sexual assault is a crime and will not be
Below is a list of posted speed
(large installation),
tolerated at this garrison. limits in our school zones:
and runner-up for Best • Netzaberg Elementary/Middle
As we relax on our off-time, responsibilities of the Military and that some individuals even School: 10 KPH
Installation. Police to enforce all installation
however, I want to stress the have a hard time going that slow • Grafenwoehr Elementary
It is through the hard work and
importance of keeping yourself and without stalling their vehicles. School: 20 KPH
dedication of our Soldiers that the
your Battle Buddy safe. Excessive speeds, as well as This speed is used as a safety • Vilseck Elementary School:
program continues to make strides.
I encourage all single Soldiers The Army’s ‘I A.M. Strong’ other violations are unacceptable measure. The barriers in place are 20 KPH
to get involved with BOSS. The campaign gives us the tools needed for several reasons. designed to rise if activated by our • Vilseck High School: 30 KPH
next BOSS event will be held to prevent sexual assault. The key factor involved is the contract guards. In discussing the schools, I
tomorrow – Country Night at ‘The We all have a duty to Intervene safety issue posed when driving A person driving in excess of would like to welcome all the
Zone’ in Vilseck. There will also before an assault happens; Act on at an excessive rate. Speed limits this speed limit could potentially teachers and students back to the
be a rafting trip this weekend and behalf of our fellow Soldier; and are established to maintain a safe garrison.
the BOSS Bash on the 25th of this Motivate each other to prevent the environment for all Soldiers, We have not only top-notch
month. crime of sexual assault. civilians and Family Members. raised. staff, but top-notch students in our
If you would like more Even one incident of sexual As a community, we owe it Another area of concern is the garrison, and I look forward to
information on upcoming events, assault is one too many. Sexual to each other to abide by the school zones. what the upcoming year will bring.
call the garrison’s BOSS president, assault is a crime and will not be regulations established, and make Our children’s safety is one of
Corporal Robert Shomper at DSN tolerated at this garrison. our post a safe place to raise our the focal points in the community.
475-8822. Speeding will also not be children. Excessive speed will not be
We expect to see the USO tolerated. Speeding on post has As many of you have seen, tolerated in these zones. While
Soldier Center, in which BOSS become a growing concern not while entering and exiting most speed bumps have been put Command Sgt. Maj.
will be housed, open in the coming only with the Directorate of gates on post, the posted speed in place at the Grafenwoehr William Berrios
month as well. Emergency Services, but also limits drop to 10 KPH. Elementary School, other schools
The facility will offer a place to within the Garrison communities. Understandably, our DES will have Military Police patrols CSM, U.S. Army
relax, use the internet, play video Army in Europe Regulation in place to ensure our community
games, make phone calls and more. 190-1 clearly outlines the saying that this speed is too low is strictly adhering to our posted Garrison Grafenwoehr
Bavarian News
Bavarian News is an unofficial biweekly publication Schweinfurt Correspondents
USAG G Commander Assistant Editor
authorized by AR 360-1. Editorial views are not necessarily
Col. Chris Sorenson DSN 475-7775, CIV 09641-83-7775 DSN 354-1400, CIV 09721-96-1400
those of the Department of the Army. The paper is an offset
publication prepared and edited by the U.S. Army Garrison- Melissa Wolff Emily Athens, Sandra Wilson
USAG G
Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels, Ansbach, Schweinfurt, and Garmisch Grafenwoehr Public Affairs Office. Bavarian News is printed Grafenwoehr Correspondent
DSN 475-8103, CIV 09641-83-8103 Hohenfels Correspondent
by Werbeagentur und Verlag Roswitha Lehner and distributed Kim Gillespie DSN 475-7113, CIV 09641-83-7113
DSN 466-4917, CIV 09472-83-4917
Producer: MILCOM Advertising Agency every other Wednesday. Circulation is 9,800 copies. Amy Newcomb
Submissions are welcome. Send letters to the editor and Bavarian News Editor Kristin Bradley
Roswitha Lehner commentaries to PAO, Unit 28130, Attn: Bavarian News, APO DSN 475-7113, CIV 09641-83-7113 Garmisch Correspondent
DSN 440-3701, CIV 08821-750-3701 Ansbach Correspondents
Zeilaeckerstr. 35 · 92637 Weiden · Telefax 0961-67050-32 AE 09114, or e-mail them to usaggnews@graf.eur.army.mil. Mary Markos
Telephone the Bavarian News at 475-7113 or fax to 475-7935 John Reese, USAG Garmisch PAO DSN 468-1600, CIV 0981-183-791
Internet: www.milcom.de with story ideas and events. Ronald Toland
September 2, 2009 Opinion & Editorial Bavarian News 3
Question for the Command Group: Command Sponsorship
Mrs. Stephens, completed DA FORM 4187 (Request for
Thank you for your questions. Command Personnel Action) endorsed by the Battalion
Dear Command Group, sponsorship is an action that is initiated Commander, copy of Enlisted Record Brief
My question pertains to keeping the unity and strength of soldier’s families in through the Soldier’s unit and basically or Officer Record Brief, DA FORM 5888
authorizes the Soldier to (Family Member Deployment Screening
regards to communication and command sponsorship. move Family members Sheet), PCS Orders assigning the Soldier to the
The army has made strides in providing a supportive environment for the into the community. overseas community, marriage certificate, birth
families and has opened new avenues for its survival. From the perspective of an There are three certificates (if applicable), copies of passports
organizations that work if family members are non-US citizens or local
Army spouse, I would like the opportunity to ask a few questions. together to ensure a nationals and SOFA stamp card for restricted
Thank you in advance for this opportunity. smooth transition: countries only.
When my spouse was in Basic Training we received communication in the the Soldier’s unit, the Additionally, court custody documents
form of a letter and post card that informed of his safe arrival and a means of Military Personnel must be provided when Soldiers are requesting
Division and IMCOM- command sponsorship for step-children.
contact and information for the family should they ever need it. Basically, this Europe. Once the completed documents are
communication kept the family involved and made them feel included as their Command Howe submitted to the Military Personnel Division,
main support system. sponsorship is a unit approval of a command Sponsorship can take
action that is requested by the new Soldier. from three days to several weeks to process
Now, worlds apart it is even more important to keep the unity and strength of To facilitate this request, the unit has a team depending on the family’s current situation.
the Soldier, spouse and family. specifically designated to assist new Soldiers There are several reasons that the approval
and family members, which consists of the unit could be delayed or denied altogether. The
My Question for Command: commander and Family Readiness Liaison. most common processing delays are the result
This team tracks newly assigned personnel and of an incomplete or inaccurate packet being
1. For the spouses and families whom are awaiting command sponsorship assigns a sponsor to assist the new Soldiers submitted to the MPD and/or if the Soldier has
how are they currently being kept informed and included in their soldier’s upon their arrival into the community. a Family member enrolled in the Exceptional
community? This person is selected on the basis of rank Family Member Program.
2. How are contact and or resource information from the command for the and family and should closely mirror the traits When that happens, the command
of the new Soldier. The idea is to provide the sponsorship request must be forwarded to
soldier’s family being distributed? new troop with a direct point of contact who IMCOM-Europe Family Travel Branch for
3. What programs are in place to include the spouse and family in their has experience in the community and can approval. Additional delays can also occur
soldier’s new community that can be taken advantage of now? understand the new Soldier’s needs. if the Soldier does not meet the tour length
More information on the Family Readiness requirements, as listed above, and must first
4. What are the criteria for command sponsorship? Group can be found at www.armyfrg.org. initiate a tour extension.
5. How can the soldier, spouse and family best prepare for command As part of the community in-processing, the Upon approval of the command
sponsorship? What documents are required of the soldier to initiate a command sponsor accompanies the new Soldier through sponsorship request, the Soldier must request
sponsorship? a myriad of offices to include local banks Deferred Family Travel Orders by completing
and medical/dental offices. As part of this a Travel Request Worksheet.
6. What are the processes for command sponsorship once the soldier has orientation, most sponsors will also take the Approval of deferred family travel
arrived at their permanent change station? How long does the approval process new troop to the Army Community Services authorizes the Soldier’s family members to
takes? (ACS) Office in order to receive relocation travel to the new community; however, this
7. What are some of the reasons a command sponsorship gets denied? packets and community information. approval may take some time because travel
There are several requirements that a dates are dependent upon the community’s
8. Upon approval of a command sponsorship is travel dependent on other Soldier must meet before their family can be housing vacancies.
soldiers families traveling to that area? command sponsored. The Soldier must be able Even though a Soldier may have an
to serve on a 36-month tour of duty and the approved command sponsorship, family
Soldier must have a minimum of 12 months members may not be able to travel until
Thank you for your time and I hope that these questions can be of help and remaining on the current tour in order to housing is available. Current housing
support for the incoming soldier, spouses and family. qualify; if not, the Soldier must be willing to information can be found at the Army Housing
extend to meet this 36-month tour requirement. Onestop Web site at https://onestop.army.mil/.
Sincerely, Once the new Soldier has decided to initiate
a command sponsorship request, the unit
Verona Stephens personnel office, also called the “S-1”, will Wendy Howe
Army Spouse assist with building a formal packet. Deputy Chief,
The following documents are required
in order to request command sponsorship: Military Personnel Division
How to stop hating the military Do YOU have a
question you’d
change how we feel about military
JACEY immigrated to a new community.
?
life, the fear that you will be alone They repeated their new like to ask
JACEY ECKHART
for the rest of your life whether you
are married or not.
behaviors by acting as if they were
not junkies every minute of every the garrison
ECKHART The fact that divorce rose from
2.5 percent of military marriages in
2001 to 3 percent in 2005. The force
day for the months they took part in
the program. They achieved change.
From my observations of military command
Mandatory Fun of refusing to move to a new duty
station because your toddler likes
families, I’ve seen the bitterest of
BLMWs find a relationship with group?
her current daycare another spouse who
‘
provider. was like them only
A re you trying to change the women’s magazines in business is Surely fear, happier. Send
way you feel about military because change doesn’t come just facts and force Hating the Then they
life?
I’m not talking about turning
because you want it to come.
If it did, I would have substituted
are enough to
military is reframed their questions to
make anyone beliefs. They went
yourself into one of those creepy
women who seem to have no life
bok choy for Cheetos long ago and
I’d weigh about nine pounds by now.
change. Surely five something many from thinking that usaggnews@
minutes in a prison the military was
outside their service member.
I’m talking about hitting that
Understanding how human beings
actually change their behavior is one
shower should be
enough to make an
family members something sailorSoldier or
their eur.army.mil
point in your Bitter Little Military
Wife stage that you recognize your
of the most crucial skills military
families learn. That’s why I was so
OxyContin habit do. It’s part of inflicted on the with “Question
seem like a bad, family, to gathering
husband is a pretty good guy, really.
That the high school boyfriend
intrigued by Alan Deutschman’s
book “Change r Die.”
bad idea. our culture. But evidence about how for Command”
Surely the idea this military thing
who just checked in with you on Deutschman is the executive that you’d have to at a certain was who their guy
Facebook is still (ack!) living with director of Unboundary, a consulting date guys who live in the subject
his mom. That if you let yourself firm that helps big business navigate with their mamas point, that hate, was, not justliving.
he did for a
what
get any more bitter you are going to change. When he researched change, is enough to make
that resentment repeated this Finally, they line.
start tasting like bok choy. Coffee
grounds. Ear wax.
Yup, you have clearly reached
he wasn’t really thinking about
military spouses. Instead he looked
at case studies of people who needed
hardcore changes in their behavior.
your (Soldier) look
a lot like Matthew
McConaughey.
outlives its
‘ behavior constantly
by acting as if they All questions
that point at which you know it
would be helpful to your own He studied car companies with
Except that
they don’t. Fear,
usefulness. could carry on
- even on the days will receive
happiness if you could magically skyrocketing costs and drug users facts and force they thought they
change the way you feel about the
demands of the military. Poof!
who kept being sent back to jail. He
studied heart patients who had to eat
may make logical sense, but those
things don’t actually motivate lasting
could not.
Hating the military is something
a response.
you?
But you have one problem, don’t cleaner and exercise more if they
wanted to live another day.
change in our behavior. Instead,
Deutschman observed that real
many family members do. It’s part
of our culture. But at a certain point,
Select
What he found was that people
Deciding that you are sick and
tired of being that BLMW and usually think they can inspire change
change came with what he called the that hate, that resentment outlives
3Rs: relate, reframe, repeat. its usefulness. We want to strip it off
questions will
changing into a happier woman are with what Deutshman calls the 3Fs:
two totally different things. fear, facts and force.
For the drug users, this meant that like a wool coat in August. That’s
they lived in a working group home one of the times we military family be published
How do you change? I mean, For those drug users, those with other reformed drug users who members need to take the time to
really, really change. Change is no motivating factors would be the fear quit using, found work they could think through Deutschman’s 3Rs. We in upcoming
joke. of going back to the soul-crushing do, made it through the day with need to relate. Reframe. Repeat.
Think of the times you’ve tried misery of prison; the fact that people some aplomb. Until we can’t imagine life any issues of the
to quit smoking, get organized, lose die from drug use; and the force of They reframed by learning to other way.
weight, exercise. The reason those actually being locked up. think of themselves as being part of Jacey Eckhart is a syndicated Bavarian News.
four topics keep an entire fleet of For we military families trying to a large extended family that had just columnist for CinCHouse.com.
4 Bavarian News News September 2, 2009
Welcome Home 18th CSSB
Soldiers, family members reunite
after 15-month deployment to Iraq
Chief Warrant
Byrd embraces his
wife Jodie and two
of their children at
a re-deployment
ceremony for
Headquarters and
Headquarters
Company,
18th Combat
Sustainment
Support Battalion
Aug. 29 at U.S.
Army Garrison
Grafenwoehr.
The children
decorated and
donned shirts
with personal
messages and
photos for the
occasion. Jodie
Byrd said they
survived the long
deployment with Soldiers of the 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Headquarters and Headquarters
lots of prayer.
deployment ceremony. The 18th CSSB deployed 77 personnel to provide command and
Photos by Melissa control over 700 National Guard, reserve and active duty Soldiers who provided Combat
Wolff Service Support to over 15,000 Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines located between Forward
Operating Base Q-West and FOB Marez in northern Iraq. The company, who completed one of
the Army’s last 15-month deployments, sustained no injuries or casualties during the tour.
U.S. Army Europe names Soldier,
Grafenwoehr-based Soldier, NCO take top honors
Story and photo by Military Police Brigade is the 2009 Best Warrior Competition at Fort Lee,
Sgt. DANIEL J. NICHOLS USAREUR Soldier of the Year and Va., in September, where they will Sgt. 1st
USAREUR Public Affairs Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Beckman of the compete with winners from the Army’s
7th Army NCO Academy is the 2009 major commands. Class Aaron
A Grafenwoehr military police USAREUR NCO of the Year. Beam said a few months ago Beckman,
Soldier from U.S. Army Europe’s 21st “I told them (the competitors) Gen. Carter Ham, USAREUR’s Joint
Theater Sustainment Command and a when this thing started that you’re commanding general, told him to Multinational
going to be tried, and you’re going Training
the Grafenwoehr’s Joint Multinational to be tested, and it will probably be USAREUR’s top warriors. Command,
Training Command were named as the one of the hardest things you ever do “Sergeant major, we’re going to
2009 USAREUR and Seventh Army at this point in your military career,” pick our warrior. We’re going to pick
Soldier of the Year and NCO of the said USAREUR Command Sgt. Maj. our champion that is going to go forth aid on a pair
Year in a ceremony held in Heidelberg, Ralph Beam during the ceremony. and represent us at DA,” Beam said of simulated
Aug. 27. Beckman and Micek will go on to the general told him. casualties
Spc. Daniel Micek of the 18th represent USAREUR in the Army’s The result was the competition Aug. 11 during
at the Grafenwoehr Training Area in the 2009
which the Micek and Beckman earned
Spc. Daniel Micek, their titles earlier this month. USAREUR and
21st Theater The competition put 11 USAREUR Seventh Army
Sustainment Soldiers’ physical, mental and warrior Best Warrior
Command’s 18th skills to the test over four grueling Competition.
Military Police days of nearly non-stop challenges. Beckman went
Brigade, takes A full story about the competition on to win the
is available from the USAREUR home
off running after page, www.http://www.hqusareur. competition
low-crawling army.mil/news/releases/2009-08-17- and be named
under barbed wire 02_SOY.pdf. USAREUR’s
on the obstacle The Aug. 9-13 competition was NCO of the
course during designed to tax each contender’s Year.
the 2009 U.S. stamina and capabilities, as well as
prepare the winners for the Army-level
Army Europe competition, said Sgt. Maj. Michael situation they’re in.” USAREUR.”
and Seventh Kennedy of JMTC’s operations While at times they might have “I’m really excited to represent
Army Soldier division, who designed many of the found it hard to work up some
of the Year and tasks for event. enthusiasm during the competition, the JMTC and from USAREUR,”
NCO of the Year “The competitor that we’re looking the winners said they’re honored to Beckman added. “I’m just hoping I
for to send to the Army level is the one earn their titles and excited to move can continue to drive forward and
competition Aug.
that is very good at dealing with fatigue, on to the next level. represent well when I get to Fort
13. Micek went physical and mental,” Kennedy said “This is a tremendous honor right Lee.”
on to be named during the competition. “The Soldier now,” Micek said. “Not many people He said his plans are to “train,
USAREUR’s 2009 that can operate on minimum amounts dream of it. Some people think they train, train” between now and then,
Soldier of the of rest and information for long can do it, but like the sergeant major including preparing with Micek.
Year. periods of time and still remember to told us, we actually did it. And this is “I’ll give all I’ve got for that one,”
do the little things even when they’re a huge honor, meeting everybody that Micek said. “There’s nothing after that,
tired, sore and not real happy about the competed ... and an honor to represent so there’s nothing to hold back.”
6 Bavarian News
News September 2, 2009
2SCR Soldier overcomes suicidal ideations,
encourages others to reach out, get help
by MARY MARKOS again and again … In my mind, I never really
Editor left Iraq.”
Stehr said part of her struggle to return to her
Capt. Emily Stehr, a physical therapist ‘pre-deployment’ self included overcoming the
with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, is in stigma associated with seeking mental health
and discussing suicide.
returning from Iraq, she was struggling with her “Nobody really wants to talk about suicide.
own internal wounds of war that had not healed. People don’t know what to say.” Stehr said.
She decided to kill herself. “There’s shame … embarrassment. I really
What stopped Stehr was not the physical thought that I was weak. I bought into the whole
pain she would have endured, but the realization stigma that people who are suicidal or have
mental issues are weak,” Stehr said.
children of her close friends when their parents The Department of the Army has
would tell them, “Aunt Emily in not around acknowledged the stigma associated with
because she killed herself.” seeking mental health and has taken steps to
“I was not willing to put that pain on those combat it and suicide in the ranks.
Although the number of suicides in the
my mom, my dad, all my other loved ones, but U.S. Army Europe rose from four in calendar
those kids, I can’t do it.” year 2007, to seven in calendar year 2008, the
‘
What Stehr did do was check into Landstuhl effects of the Army’s efforts to reduce and
Regional Medical eliminate the stigma
Center and began the with seeking mental
process of healing. It has nothing to do health were evident
“I like to think of in an informal poll
(suicide) like cancer. with being strong or taken at the U.S. Army
I did not even know Garrison Grafenwoehr
I was sick. I just kept being weak, you’re sick. Aug. 25.
waiting for me to return Fifty-one percent Courtesy photo
to normal, and it never The correct philosophy is of nearly 60 Soldiers Capt. Emily Stehr, a physical therapist with the 2nd Stryker Cavalry
happened. Stuff kept polled said there is
escalating until it was that you’re a human, and no longer a stigma Regiment,contimplated committing suicide after returning from Iraq. She shares
either, I’ll be dead or her story with others in hope they will see that reaching out for help is not only okay,
I’ll get treatment.
sometimes crap happens, associated with seeking
help. it makes you a better Soldier.
“Looking back I can and you have pain. But you Sixty-two percent it is okay to talk about what is troubling them,” our Soldiers are strong because they have the
see the whole process, of Soldiers polled said Blackburn said. fortitude to do a self-examination, and they
but when you’re going need to deal with your pain. that individuals who “We’ve got to make people understand … know the result. They don’t conceal it, they let
through something like seek mental help are scars, you’ve got them; I’ve got them; we’ve it out. That’s a strong population, not a weak
that, you’re so blind Get help when you need not seen as weak, with all got them. Some are visible. Some are not one,” he said.
because you’re in ‘you one Soldier attributing visible. Everybody deserves a chance to be To stay strong, Stehr said all Soldiers need
shell’,” Stehr said. it. Take care of yourself this to “the change in successful. to offer support and be willing to listen and
Part of her healing emotionally, mentally, Army culture.” “Part of that is tearing down the stigma talk. Stehr further said that it is not as easy as
process was coming
out of her shell and
the ‘tumor’ or reason
for her emotional pain
psychologically. It’s going
to make you a better
‘ It is a change, said
2SCR Regimental
Commander Col.
James Blackburn
that starts with the
associated with any illness, any scar, that you
incur while in the Army, or even before you
came in. You are ours now, and will put you in
a position to be successful,” said Blackburn.
And Stehr said talking mental illness and
just asking someone if they are going to hurt
themselves.
“It is never that easy. There is no easy about
any of this. Encourage that person and be there
for them. The more we talk about it, the better
and suicidal thoughts. Soldier. leadership. suicide is the only way to prevent others from off we are,” Stehr said.
“I had to go back “Fundamentally, taking their life. Blackburn encourages Soldiers to reach out
and rout out what was Capt. Emily Stehr as leaders, we have “It has nothing to do with being strong or and get the help they need. “If you are hurting
causing the maladaptive 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment to recognize there’s a being weak, you’re sick,” Stehr said. “The in some way, if something‘s on your heart, or
behavior, the tumor. challenge, and in this correct philosophy is that you’re a human, and something’s on your mind, reach out … We
Ultimately, unless you case the challenge is sometimes crap happens, and you have pain. But want you to reach out.
deal with that, it’s always going to plague you. cultural. We are in the profession of change, you need to deal with your pain. Get help when “If you hold it in, it won’t do you any good.
You have to deal with it head-on,” Stehr said. changing the culture,” he said. you need it. Take care of yourself emotionally, It won’t do your immediate family any good. It
Dealing with the cause of her suicidal With the cultural change, Blackburn and mentally, psychologically. It’s going to make won’t do your extended family any good. And it
ideations meant dealing with the anger, grief 2SCR leadership supported Stehr in her decision you a better Solder.” certainly won’t do your battle buddy any good.
and emotional pain Stehr said she felt after to talk to others about her suicidal ideations. Blackburn agreed. We are here to help you,” Blackburn said.
physically leaving Iraq. “I strongly feel Emily’s brave move to share “(Solders who seek help) are strong. They’re Soldiers in need of help can call the U.S.
“For me, it was an accumulative trauma her story with the public is exactly what the strong because they are able to examine Army Garrison Grafenwoehr chaplain hotline
- watching patients die.” Stehr said. “I had a Army needs to decrease the stigma associated themselves and know there’s something wrong. at CIV 0162-296-0838. To read more stories of
patient kill himself. We lost 33 people when with seeking help. By stepping forward, she is Most people generally don’t say, ‘I have a Soldiers who speaking out about suicide, visit
we were down there. It is hard to see again and showing other Solders they are not alone and problem.’ And these folks this population of www.realwarriors.net.
Netzaberg mother delivers baby boy along B470
by AMY NEWCOMB gotten the leather seats instead of being Left: Melanie Lasley holds
Bavarian News cheap” Paul said jokingly. son Zachariah, who she
They left Netzaberg but had to delivered in the front seat of
“How often do you have to convince make a decision at the Eschenbach
the family’s car while on the
your husband you are having a baby, exit. “I think we need to go to the
it’s coming, there’s no stopping, it’s Eschenbach hospital, I’m think I’m way to the hospital.
not like you can just tell it to hold on, going to have this baby” said Melanie.
cross your legs, it’s just not time yet” Paul thought they could make it to Below: Crossroads sign
Melanie Lasley said. Weiden. between Weiden and
Melanie never thought when they As they were driving to Weiden, Eschenbach where Melanie
moved to Grafenwoehr in January that Melanie insisted that Paul pull over,
she knew she was not going to make Lasley gave birth to son
she would deliver her own baby on the
side of the road in a foreign country. it to the hospital in time. Zachariah.
When she woke up at 3 a.m. on July “We were right past OBI when Courtesy photos
29th feeling sick, she had no idea she he crowned on the B470” Paul said.
was having labor pains. They pulled over at an intersection
“I didn’t put the two together until with a road sign telling them it was
about 5 a.m., I got on the internet and 17 kilometers to Weiden and 13
read stories about women who didn’t kilometers back to Eschenbach.
realize they were in labor” Melanie Paul jumped out of their van at the
said.
The labor pains started to get man on his way to work. He asked the
intense at 5:30 a.m. so she woke up her man to call an ambulance for his wife
husband, Lt. Col. Paul Lasley, senior who was about to give birth. “I never
chaplain for U.S. Army Garrison got his name, I don’t know how to thank excruciating” Melanie said. impromptu roadside birth. this hard” Paul said.
Grafenwoehr. him but he spoke very good English Melanie and Zachariah were taken “They just assumed that Paul Melanie was thankful that he could
The Lasley’s called their neighbor and was very accommodating” Paul by ambulance to Weiden hospital delivered and I was in the back seat be home to help during this pregnancy
and friend, Joy Chun, to come over and said. The unknown man stayed until the where they stayed for four days. of the van….But I was in the front because it was the hardest. “It seemed
look after their other three children so ambulance arrived 15 minutes later. Zachary weighed 9 pounds 1 ounce seat of the van and took my own baby like with each pregnancy [labor time]
they could go to the hospital. After Paul had made sure that an and was 19 inches long. and put him on my shoulder” Melanie was cut in half” Melanie said.
“[Joy] arrived in probably less than ambulance was on the way he went “He was so big he had blood sugar said. “I just prayed to God and he saw The Lasley’s other children, Ruth,
10 minutes from when we called her” back to the van and found his wife problems so we ended up staying us through it.” 9, Caleb, 6, and Sarah, 2, were happy
Paul said. Once Chun arrived, they holding their newborn son, Zachariah a little bit longer to make sure that that their mother had Zachariah during
grabbed Melanie’s suitcase and headed Vance Lasley. everything was okay…..everything home for an entire pregnancy due to the summer so they would have a
out the door. Melanie had delivered her own was okay” Melanie said. deployments. “I’ve been gone for at chance to play with their new brother
When they got inside their van, baby at 6:05 a.m. “The delivery The Lasley’s family and friends least half if not most of all the other before school started. Zachariah was
Melanie’s water broke. “I wish I had was easy, it was the labor that was were shocked to learn of Zachariah’s pregnancies….I didn’t know it was 2 weeks and 2 days early.
8 Bavarian News News September 2, 2009
Moving brings choices, time restrictions
by BRADLEY J. HUESTIS
with the carrier within nine months of delivery,
the carrier will be responsible for obtaining
With the end of the summer permanent change New residents have nine
of station cycle, all service members and civilian replacement estimates when not repairable. If
personnel who recently arrived should note these
delivery, the carrier will only pay the depreciated with the carrier under the
damaged, destroyed, or lost during moves. replacement cost or repair cost, whichever is
Under the new Full Replacement Value less.
mail, claimants should send claims to the carrier
with the carrier.
Filing directly with carrier date on which the claim was submitted.
With the FRV program, if claimants file When the carrier receives the claim, it will
their claim directly upon the carrier within nine have up to 60 days to pay, deny or make a Courtesy photo
months of delivery, the carrier will settle the
claim by repairing or paying to repair damaged claim, the carrier will have 30 days to make the
items. payment.
For items that are lost or destroyed, the carrier
will either replace the item with a new item, or This two-year period was established by act
pay the full, undepreciated replacement cost. A of Congress and cannot be waived. The claims
few large items like pianos, organs, motorcycles give up their right to have the carrier settle the that the government could have recovered from
claim on the basis of full replacement value. the carrier from any amount payable to claimants
art, are not covered by FRV. on their claim. lading, orders and attendant documents before it
In some cases, the carrier cannot replace by paying the depreciated replacement or repair This deduction for lost potential carrier
some missing items with new ones. These are cost, whichever is less. recovery will almost always equal or exceed the
items that have value because of their age, such Claimants must submit Form 1840R to value of the items being claimed, resulting in no shipment (household goods, hold baggage and
as collectible figurines, antiques, collectible payment for those items of which the government POV).
plates, baseball cards, comic books, and coin the property was delivered. DD Form 1840R received tardy notice. If residents suffer damage to property that
and stamp collections. On a full replacement (the pink form captioned “Notice of Loss or Be mindful that the armed services’ claims may be compensable by the Army, they should
value claim, the carrier is liable for the greater of Damage”) is the reverse of the DD Form 1840 programs are funded mostly by recovering
$5,000 per shipment or $4 times the net weight money from private carriers who break and lose For assistance with claims, call: Ansbach
of the shipment (in pounds), up to a maximum belongings. Residents should be sure to unpack things, not by tax dollars.
limit of $50,000.
If claimants believe the full replacement notice. step in perfecting a claim. Claimants must
value of their property is more than $50,000, submit their completed claim on DD Form 1842,
they may be able to obtain additional FRV timely are critical to preserving your claim for Claim For Loss or Damage To Personal Property
coverage at their own expense from a private two reasons. Incident To Service, and DD Form 1844, List Of
insurance company or from the carrier, if the Property And Claim Analysis Chart, within two
carrier offers additional coverage. for items that are not listed on Form 1840R. years of the date your property was delivered.
U.S. Forces ration card program ushers in technology
also changed the color of the card to ration card holders in Europe. Yellow on-line form and print the ration card
make it more visibly distinctive from cards should start being issued in on 8-1/2 by 11-inch paper. riddle of how to fold the ration card.
In a change to bring the U.S. Forces the current edition.” June. Individuals who currently have “This new process will enable “That is something that people
ration card issue process in line with the blue ration cards will keep them. service providers to rapidly complete struggle with, like folding a map. But
technology, U.S. Army Installation When the time comes to replace ration in a way, folding up a ration card is
Management Command-Europe Division, issues ration cards to certain cards, individuals will receive a new on the spot,” said Hall. an iconic piece of being stationed
yellow ration card. According to Suarez, the online in Europe,” said Hall. “The new
will undergo a makeover. According to Suarez the change will “It’s important people realize that form that will be used by service ration card will be slightly wider than
According to Lanny Hall, IMCOM- benefit both personnel who issue the blue cards are still good until they providers to create the new ration cards the current edition and will contain
Europe personnel services chief, the the ration cards and those receiving expire. Keep using them,” said Hall. folding instructions. Although the
ration card process is transitioning them. “They are a different color, The new web-based process, said 2 blocks on the form that have to be folding can still be a little tricky, the
from typewriters to web-based forms better material and they are supposed changed when someone comes in for a new ration card format will continue
and will change size and color. to last a little longer….it is easier for process. new one. “All I have to do is input the to accommodate easy wallet storage
“The principal reason for the change us to issue them now because we do In the past, customers would watch expiration date to the date on their ID and retrieval.”
is to take the issuance process from the it on the computer which is quicker” as a service provider plucked away Cards and their name and I go ahead For more about U.S. Forces ration
typewriter to the PC and laser printer,” Suarez said. at a typewriter to complete the ration and print it…..everything is already
said Hall. “The change mandates that The ration card color will change card. Now, when customers obtain a there” Suarez said. “It takes about 2
we have to make a format change from from blue to yellow, said Hall, adding new, replacement or renewal ration minutes to get someone in and out.”
the current long, skinny edition, and we that the change affects all U.S. Forces The one thing that will remain
Respite care offers families valuable rest
Slow Down by ROB McILVAINE and the medical or educational condition of the
family member requiring care.
Qualifying families are eligible to receive up
For Army families who are responsible for to 40 hours of funded EFMP respite care monthly
The Grafenwoehr Military Police will be conducting speed regular care of persons with disabilities, the
enforcement operations in the vicinity of all garrison DODEA Exceptional Family Member Program Respite up to $45 per hour for care.
Care Program provides a temporary rest period
schools. The following posted speed limits will be strictly
‘
for caregivers. received $8.2 million in supplemental funds
The EFMP puts respite for EFMP respite care. In
enforced: care in place when needed
for eligible families of active Special needs been included in the base
Netzaberg Elementary/Middle school complex - 10 KPH Army and active Army operating funds for ACS
care is around and is no longer funded by
Reserve Soldiers.
Grafenwoehr Elementary - 20 KPH Sharon Fields, a program the clock. When supplemental funds.
The Army Installation
manager for FMWRC Respite Management Command
Vilseck Elementary - 20 KPH Care Services, said the Army a family has a published revised guidelines
hopes to inform families
worldwide about respite care special needs respite care funds June 11,
Vilseck High School - 30 KPH opportunities.
“Our primary goal is
child or adult, to further standardize and
expedite service delivery
All violators will be ticketed. Questions can be directed to to ensure consistency and respite care Army-wide. These guidelines
Sgt. First Class Leonard Warth at DSN 476-2590. continuity of our respite care
program, regardless of where
our Soldiers and families are
located,” Fields said. “Special
needs care is around the clock.
provides a break
for the primary
‘
became effective Aug. 3.
Contact the U.S. Army
Family, Morale, Welfare and
Recreation EFMP program
When a family has a special caregiver. director, Jay Velis at DSN
needs child or adult, respite
care provides a break for the
primary caregiver.” FMWRC Respite Care Service
eligibility, allowable respite
Families can apply for care hours and cost per
the Respite Care Program at the nearest Army month.
for the program is based on EFMP enrollment
10 Bavarian News
Garmisch September 2, 2009
Garrison Military Police at home on
the range with Garmisch Polizei force
Story and photos by This range, however, was unique. U.S. knowing that they have a solid working aren’t authorized to wear the American badges
Staff Sgt. JERAME J. STOFFER Army MPs assigned to the U.S. Army Garrison partnership with the local Polizei, all
USAG Garmisch DES
Garmisch Directorate of Emergency Services participants were willing to give up off-duty counterpart cops, simply earning the badge and
and German police officers serving the time to train together and learn each other’s
It’s probably been a while in Garmisch since Garmisch-Partenkirchen community conducted tactics. Both Soldiers and Polizei said everyone took
the last time anyone heard of the garrison’s The garrison MPs received training on 7.62 home a different experience, new ideas and new
Military Police and local Polizei conducting followed by a familiarization with each other’s friendships.
joint weapons training at the same range. Serving overseas, MPs are able to form
In most cases, joint weapons training for According to the Soldiers involved,
Soldiers is done with the Bundeswehr so their Americans and Germans hoped to get to used by American troops. with the local Polizei.
Edelweiss Gebirgsjägers, or mountain soldiers, know each others weapons for reasons of At the end of the day the German Police Because the language barrier sometimes must
can earn American marksmanship badges. personnel safety, to ease working together in took home Army marksmanship badges that be overcome without the use of an interpreter,
Likewise, and American Soldiers can attempt law enforcement, and to boost international generally only the Bundeswehr are afforded the having strong teamwork and cooperation helps
to earn the German Army marksmanship award camaraderie. opportunity to earn. to achieve the mutual goals of keeping the
at a Schützenschnur. While career MPs feel more comfortable Unlike the German military, the Polizei public safe.
Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy S. Herring, Garmisch Provost Sergeant, instructs two Spec. Justin L. Benge, a member of the Garmisch Military Police, receives instructions
Provost Marshal’s Corner
Automated
pedestrian gate Left: Children play
opens for business under a backdrop of
mountains during the
U.S. Army Garrison
by Cpt. SCOTT WOIDA
Provost Marshal, USAG Garmisch DES
Garmisch chapel’s
Vacation Bible School.
I am pleased to report that the automated pedestrian gate,
located on Artillery Kaserne (near Army Lodging, Building
258), is open for use. This gate will allow walkers to enter Below left: Soldiers
and exit the Kaserne along Aussere Maximilianstrasse; of O Troop, 4th
a nice shortcut if you’re going to the employee housing, Squadron, 2nd Stryker
catching a city bus, or walking up Kramer Mountain. Cavalry Regiment out
This automated gate is a new piece of technology and of Vilseck conduct a
will take a bit of ‘getting used to.’ Special instructions are
standard combat patrol
also available at the gate for families with small children or
strollers. Instructions are posted in English, German and on Artillery Kaserne
Russian to assist you, if needed. The gate has an automated during a random patrol
voice, in English, which can also guide you through the for increased vigilance.
process. The troopers are
If you have any issues, or you are requested to call becoming a familiar
security; the call will go directly to the Military Police Desk.
Please take directions from the Desk Sergeant as he helps sight in Garmisch at
you gain access to post while following the steps required all of the American
by the automated gate. The door leading off post can be kasernes with more
opened by anyone inside the gate, so you will not be stuck frequent patrols.
inside. Germany and the U.S.
I ask that you practice patience when using the gate are working together
commands that may lead to minor delays., Entry and exit, to keep the community
however, will be a breeze once you become familiar with safe; Bundeswehr
the process. from the Musikkorps
share the kaserne with
safety in mind while traveling to and from work. Help American Soldiers who
us set a good example for our community children by
work at the garrison
following the posted speed limits and wearing the proper
safety gear while on motorcycles and bicycles. Together and the George C.
we can make this garrison a safer and more secure place to Marshall Center on
live and work. Sheridan Kaserne.
Feedback: Let me know how we are doing. Go online
the Garmisch Garrison website www.garmisch.army.mil
Photos by John Reese
evaluations let me know how we can better serve you.
Please include a name and contact information if you wish
to receive a personal response. Thank you for your service.
12 Bavarian News Hohenfels Box Bulletin September 2, 2009
Story and photo by promising job market in the United recruiter, Chambers’ information was After a summer renting a room from is huge,” said Darr, who said to hire
KRISTIN BRADLEY States had prompted her to research entered into a database accessible by, a German family with three children Chambers he needed only to provide
Bavarian News
other options. among many others, Equal Employment about her age, she said: “It has been Molina with a job description, then sort
Enter the Workforce Recruitment amazing and I wouldn’t have it any through the potential candidates she
By the time her senior year at the Program. the Army. other way. I’ve gotten to travel with found for him from the database.
College of Charleston was ending in A Department of Labor centrally Troy Darr, public affairs officer them; I made friends; I ate German Though it requires little time and
2009, Annie Chambers was losing hope funded program, the WRP connects for U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels, food. I even had a conversation with no money on the part of the supervisor,
federal sector employers with contacted Alma Molina, Hohenfels someone in German the other day.” Wanda Watson-Mays, WRP coordinator
postsecondary students and recent EEO program manager, about hiring While spending the summer learning for USAREUR, said she thinks some
Washington, D.C. on the weekends graduates with disabilities. someone through the WRP to complete about the German culture, Chambers also managers are still wary of hiring a student
for interviews, but said the less than After an interview with a program special projects his staff had not had had to learn about the Army culture. or recent graduate with a disability.
time to tackle. “After doing internships in corporate “Disability doesn’t mean inability,”
Molina searched the database for America, I know that world. Working for said Watson-Mays. “We’re trying to
candidates who might match Darr’s the military every day I asked a lot of shift some paradigms here.”
needs. Chambers was one of them. questions,” she said, adding that learning Chambers, who was diagnosed
Annie Chambers Three months later, both Darr and to operate in a new environment has
shoots footage around Chambers are grateful they chose to honed her adaptive skills. Disorder in High School, said for her,
participate in the program. it is a matter of learning to work around
post for a “Welcome “I am absolutely glad I did it. It the WRP has been a positive one for her disability.
to Hohenfels” video. Darr also. “I will get it done and I will get it
Chambers has spent “It has been great. Annie was able done well, it’s just a little harder to stay
the summer working for anything better.” said Chambers. to work with minimum supervision. I on task sometimes,” said Chambers.
for the U.S. Army gave her a project to complete and she “I don’t think people here even know
I have a disability. It’s nice that they
Garrison Hohenfels had four un-paid internships so I know that Chambers has been working on don’t judge you for anything.”
what it’s like to be babied and I didn’t projects he has wanted to complete To ease any misgivings employers
through the Workforce want that.” for some time but has not had the man might have about hiring someone with
Recruitment Program, Though she had to pay for her own power to begin. a disability, Watson-Mays stressed two
a Department of ticket to Germany, as a WRP employee According to Kym McRae-Haeffner,
Labor centrally Chambers was paid a salary commiserate Hohenfels EEO program specialist, that
is one of the highlights for supervisors. and two, that “just like any other federal
funded program that Like the eight other WRP interns “It’s advantageous for both the employee, if they don’t work out you
connects federal working for U.S. Army Europe and student and the employer because you’re can let them go.”
sector employers Installation Management Command- “Some people in the database I saw
with postsecondary Europe this summer, Chambers also out of your budget. You get someone have two PhDs, or two PhDs and a
students and recent from a pre-screened DOL referral pool
graduates with housing allowance) as well as arrange that can work on special projects or on- job. This program is just one vehicle
for transportation, all of which she said going projects that need help,” she said,
disabilities. Molina went “above and beyond” to adding that not only does it not cost gainfully employed,” said Watson-
assist with. supervisors anything, it also takes very Mays.
little time on their part. Supervisors interested in the WRP
culture shock, has been a valuable one, “If you look at the time I put into it should contact their EEO for more
Chambers said. versus what we got out of it, the return information.
by KRISTIN BRADLEY Though as important as it is to acknowledge
Bavarian News “We must look ... to the history of the many women and what both the Army and female Soldiers have
accomplished for female equality, Williams said
It was not long ago in our nation’s short history men who made it possible for us today.” more than anything women just want to be judged
that American women lacked the right to vote. Sgt. Maj. Carleen Williams, Command Paralegal NCO of the Staff Judge Advocate, JMRC for what they can do, not what gender they are.
Almost 89 short years later an active-duty Though she is usually the only female in a
female Soldier in the United States Army stood
in front of a group of men and women at the U.S. the driving force behind the entirely peaceful regular Army little more than 30 years ago,
movement that changed the future of the nation, Williams said the Army and its female Soldiers at hand and what knowledge she has to offer the
Army Garrison Hohenfels dining facility to speak Army, not about being a woman, though she also
about the importance of the 19th Amendment. said Williams. continue to push women’s equality forward.
“We must look … to the history of the many Having deployed to Iraq three times herself, acknowledged that what she has to offer the Army
Addressing the crowd at the Hohenfels may come in part from her gender.
Women’s Equality Day celebration Aug. 20, women and men who made it possible for us today in Desert Storm in 1990-1991 and in Operation
to put the words women and equality in the same Iraqi Freedom-1 and OIF-3, Williams said the “Having a female in the group (of mostly men)
Sgt. Maj. Carleen Williams called the women’s adds to the overall thinking, it might bring about
sentence,” she said. presence of women in combat is itself a powerful
Currently serving as the command paralegal testament. more ideas,” said Williams.
rights convention in Seneca Falls, N.Y. in 1848, “Just by having a presence in a combat As a female sergeant major, she said it
“the mother of all (civil rights) movements of the Judge Advocate at the Joint Multinational Training environment … we are helping to promote is important to her to be visible within the
60’s and 70’s.” Command, Williams said the Army has held an worldwide equality and diversity,” she said as she community.
Established by congress in 1971, Women’s important role in advancing women’s equality. showed the audience a photo of a female Soldier “There aren’t very many (female SGMs), so
Equality Day commemorates the 1920 passage with a young Iraqi girl. I want to be out there. I want to show men that
of the 19th Amendment that gave women the equality) in a functional way,” she said, citing both “In this way it can truly be said that we honor there are female sergeant majors out there and I
right to vote. the formation of the Women’s Army Corps in 1943 those women who struggled for gender equality want women to see me and maybe think, ‘I could
“Women who sought a change, even if they and its disbandment into the regular Army in 1978. with each new generation we free from the tyranny be like her.’”
didn’t see the results in their lifetime,” were Though the WAC was incorporated in the of gender oppression,” said Williams.
by KRISTIN BRADLEY management.” Officer Julio Irlanda, Hohenfels completed the online training of the
Bavarian News For two weeks Gaddy attended the property book officer, said he was basic course and is awaiting dates for
Basic Course in Ft. Leavenworth, Kan. allowed the instructors to see how the more than willing to endorse Gaddy’s his training in Kansas.
Though she already holds a degree with 150 other students in her session. students would interact with people request to attend the course. “I understood many things better
in business management and economics Having taught leadership courses they had just met, what each person’s “I endorsed it because it is (after completing the online course).
from the State University of New York, herself during a previous job in leadership style was and how they education. Why not?” he said. “We I learned about leadership and
when Vesna Gaddy saw an opportunity human resources, Gaddy said she would work together as a group. how to handle different situations,
to attend a course to hone her business was impressed with the layout of the “You were on your toes from the local national from Hohenfels to go.” though mainly about communication
leadership skills, she said she jumped course. Irlanda said the Basic Course and feedback,” said Ignatius.
at the chance. “I really, really liked the course,” as possible. It lets the instructors see “Communication is so important
Gaddy, a Property Book Office said Gaddy. “Normally leadership how people adapt. Are you going put on her resume that will help because if that breaks down everything
supply technician is the first local courses are all about theory, but with to withdraw or contribute? It was her wherever she goes, whether she falls apart.”
national employee from Hohenfels to this one the theory was covered online pretty tense, but you learn a lot about remains an Army employee or not.
attend a Civilian Education System (before arriving in Kansas), so when yourself,” Gaddy said. at no cost to either the student or their
I got there right from the start we Students then get feedback from the there is a team chief for each of our immediate employer. Attendance,
to local nationals last year. were assigned a group. Everything instructors who help them use those three teams. If her team chief left and including travel and living costs,
The CES, part of the Army was about group work and it was very lessons to improve their performance. I were the person choosing who is are centrally funded for most Army
Management Staff College, represents hands on.” At Hohenfels Gaddy works on a civilians, meaning the Department of
a series of courses that aims to educate The student centered, problem based, because she has the training,” said the Army picks up the bill.
those that support Soldiers, with the property book for the garrison, which Irlanda. So impressed was she with the
ultimate goal of a workforce capable of raise student’s awareness of their includes about 130 hand receipts for Bridy Godwin, Plans, Analysis and Basic Course, Gaddy said she hopes
leadership style and develop teamwork, items issued to garrison personnel. to attend the Intermediate Course by
According to CES publications, communication and leadership skills. “(The CES course) gave me some she also encourages her employees to
“Army civilians will become multi- tools to help me adapt to situations. This take advantage of CES opportunities. Civilians interested in attending
faceted civilian leaders of the 21st day into the course each group was is a customer service position so our goal “It is great for career progression,” a CES course should contact their
century who personify the warrior given an assignment that was kept as is to do our services as quickly and as said Godwin. supervisor and visit www.amsc.
vague as possible. She and her group seamlessly as possible,” said Gaddy. One of them, Rajan Ignatius, belvoir.army.mil/ces for more
support to statesmanship and business Gaddy’s supervisor, Chief Warrant another local national, has just information.
13 Bavarian News Hohenfels Box Bulletin September 2, 2009
Team Apache departs for Afghanistan
to continue mission of Team Blackfoot
Story and photos by Spouses, children and friends
wrapped themselves in blankets to
“We’re going to be providing
security for the region,” said
love to do,” said McDonald, who is
not the only one who volunteered for
comprehensive mission readiness
exercise at Hohenfels in June.
KRISTIN BRADLEY
Bavarian News
keep out the early morning chill as Wheeler. Team Apache. Addressing Team Apache at their
they said goodbye to the seventh team “We want to provide stability for Made up mostly of Soldiers from deployment ceremony in the post
While the escalating conflict in from 1-4 to deploy in support of Task the government so in the future they Co. A, Team Apache also includes theater Aug. 10, Lt. Col. Rafael
Afghanistan gains media attention in Force Zabul and the International can become the sole ones in charge (of Soldiers from across the battalion as Paredes, 1-4 Inf. commander, told
the United States, the 1st Battalion, Security Assistance Force. their country),” he said. well as Sailors and Airmen who will the Soldiers that after observing
4th Infantry Regiment in Hohenfels, While there, Team Apache will “The main thing is to go ahead and bring their unique expertise to the them for the past month, “I have the
Germany quietly sent yet another of its serve under the tactical control of let the people make a living without mission.
companies to single-handedly patrol the 280th Maneuver Battalion of the threat of anyone taking it from them,” Team Apache began training in leadership.”
thousands of miles in the southern part Romanian Army. said Spc. Douglas McDonald, who, April to help the Soldiers transition “I am impressed with your
of the country. Once they arrive, Team Apache’s after returning in February from a from their role as opposing forces and professionalism which will help
There was no parade through first mission will be to complete deployment with Team Cherokee to build their ability to work together you accomplish the mission to the
town, no television crews, no fanfare Relief in Place operations with Team volunteered to return with Team as a team. highest standards and help you make
- just a small number of weary-eyed Blackfoot that has been in the region Apache. They participated in situational a lasting impact on the lives of the
family members - to say goodbye as since February. “There are a lot of guys who Afghan people in Zabul province,”
the Soldiers of Team Apache readied Capt. Kyle Wheeler, company haven’t been downrange. They need and a deployment training exercise Paredes said. “Be well, be strong, be
to board their buses in the early hours commander, said his main goal is to people with the experience. I’m just with the 280th maneuver battalion professional. Godspeed and for your
of Aug. 19. continue the work of Blackfoot. doing what I do best. This is what I in Romania before completing a safe return we pray.”
Pvt. Jimmy
Barker
farewell
to his wife
Lacey Aug.
departing for
Afghanistan
with 1st
Battalion,
4th Infantry
Regiment’s
Team
Apache in
support of
Task Force
Capt. Kyle Wheeler, left, commander of Co. A, 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, looks on as 1st Sgt.
Province, Afghanistan.
Airmen, Soldiers share capabilities in training
Story and photo by weapons system at my disposal.” to engage an unknown enemy in a complex learn from each other, which is key.”
TODD OLIVER Wilson’s squad was inserted by helicopter environment. Joint training venues like this allow units
7th Army JMRC PAO
to learn from one another and to establish
area. Once they had all rallied together, they Soldiers) a chance to see what JTACs do,” tactics, techniques, and procedures for future
Ground forces, whether in Afghanistan or began a patrol that would lead them into the said Capt. Todd Poindexter, JMRC observer/ operations.
Iraq, can be reasonably certain any aircraft village. Each of the squad’s two teams had a controller. “It gave them a better understanding “I learned that JTAC is the most important
above them is friendly aircraft. JTAC Airmen with them. of what their Air Force brethren can do. thing to have, to have it with you at all times.
What they can’t be certain of is what kind “The JTAC’s job is to inform the ground Answering questions like ‘what does a Maverick It gives the pilot a lot better understanding of
of aircraft is up there, who owns the aircraft, commander of what air power is capable of do verses what does an A-10 do, which one is what the situation is on the ground, which is
what kind of help the aircraft can offer and, no matter what kind of aircraft, what branch more accurate?’ It’s a two-way road and they obviously a good idea,” said Wilson.
or even what nationality that aircraft is from,”
the situation on the ground. said Tech Sgt. Joseph Hren, JTAC instructor
and evaluator.
Joint Tactical Air Controller, or JTAC. These “If the commander sees a target and says,
U.S. Air Force personnel, experts on identifying ‘make that building go away’ we have to see
the capabilities of both foreign and domestic
military aircraft, recently teamed up with weapon we’re going to apply and how we’re
members of the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry going to apply it. Our ultimate goal is minimal
Regiment at the Joint Multinational Readiness collateral damage while getting the mission
Center during the multinational Allied Strike done and meeting the ground commander’s
exercise to hone their skills, while familiarizing intent.”
the members of 1-4 Inf. on what they bring to Incorporating lessons learned from previous
Under the direction of the 7th Army Joint hybrid threats that are diverse, dynamic
Multinational Training Command, whose combinations of conventional, irregular and
footprint is within close-proximity of other terrorist capabilities.
U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine bases within Where once units might have used massive
Europe, the JMRC regularly conducts training amounts of ordinance to destroy a target,
with its joint partners. concerns over civilian casualties is something
Training together helps improve each that the JTACs discuss among themselves and
service’s readiness to execute missions
throughout the region and across the globe, “It definitely figures into the training,”
while building relationships among troops explained Hren. “We always want to train as
operations. far as how we attack a target or the effects of
“It was my first time working with collateral damage we have to take all of that
JTAC. It was outstanding,” Staff Sgt. Kevin into consideration.”
Wilson, a squad leader with Headquarters Sounds of helicopters buzzing the rooftops 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment’s Staff Sgt. Kevin Wilson, left, operates a
and Headquarters Company, 1-4 Inf., said in the mock village and the louder, deadlier radio while Joint Tactical Air Controller Senior Airman Michael Gibbs, right,
after leading his squad through a simulated aircraft higher up is eventually accompanied provides security during a training event Aug. 4 at the 7th Army Joint Multinational
Afghanistan-based scenario. by a chorus of small-arms and not so small-
“I gained a lot better idea of what I have Readiness Center. The Soldiers and Airman were teaming up as part of Allied
available to accomplish my mission. Instead training in earnest. Strike, an Air Force-led multinational exercise at the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels
of using just manpower, I have an entirely new training areas.
14 Bavarian News
Community Spotlight September 2, 2009
What’s Happening
For more, call DSN 475-6426. ATV safari in Germany.
Grafenwoehr/ CFC training
Garmisch ATV Safari will take place Sept. 6
from 8 a.m. to noon. The cost is $35 and
The bus will depart Hohenfels from
ODR, Bldg. H15, at 7 a.m. and return
to Hohenfels around 11 p.m. The cost
Vilseck Briefs A training session for all CFC unit rep-
resentatives will be held Sept 16 at 10 a.m. Briefs includes fuel for the day and safety gear.
ATV Safari dates are Sept. 6, Sept.
13, Oct. 4, and Oct. 25. For more, call
is $60 per person. Seating is limited to
in Grafenwoehr at Bldg.244, Room 219.
AFC survey Training will last approximately 1.5 hours. Neuschwanstein Castle DSN 466-2060. 466-2060.
An Army Family Covenant online For more info contact Christine Head to the most popular tourist at-
survey is being held through Sept. 15 to Nunez at DSN 475-8432, or email Chris- traction in Germany, the Neuschwanstein Arevita Spa FAST class
evaluate the effectiveness of the AFC. tine.nunez@eur.army.mil. Castle, Sept. 13, leaving at 7:30 a.m., ITR is going to the Arevita Spa in If you need to raise your GT score,
Soldiers, family members and civil- cost $ 32.00. Amberg Sept. 9. consider enrolling in the upcoming
ians are encouraged to evaluate their Estate claims In addition to Neuschwanstein, this The bus will leave at 8 a.m. from FAST class. Instruction will be held at
satisfaction with all aspects of Covenant- Anyone having claims on or obliga- trip includes and a short stop at the ODR and will return around 2:30 p.m. the Education Center Sept. 16-29 from
related programs and services. tions to the estate of Larry E. Candler of UNESCO designated World Heritage Each trip is limited to eight guests. The 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more, call DSN
The survey only takes a few minutes LFOA-Europe should contact the follow- Site of the Wieskirche and the Ettal cost is $110 per person. Make sure to 466-2882.
and can be accessed from the garrison Monastery. For more, call DSN 440- bring Euros and they do accept the VAT
web site at www.grafenwoehr.army.mil. Geerati Choosang at DSN 474-2485, or 2638, CIV 08821-750-2638. form. High School open house
email geerati.choosang@eur.army.mil. Hohenfels High School will have
Command information survey Top Chef, Garda See Ed. center testing services open house Sept. 16 at 5:30 p.m.
USAG Grafenwoehr will hold a Karaoke night at “The Zone” Join us for the vacation of a lifetime The DLAB will be given Sept. 9 at
command information survey through Come Sept. 18 for karaoke night at Oct. 9-12, cost $450 per person. 9 a.m. You must have a DA Form 4187 Fall golf tournament
Sept. 2. “The Zone” Sports Bar in Vilseck. Starts The best trips are the ones that teach signed by the commander. A golf tournament will take place
Completing this short six-question 9 p.m. Songs range from adult contem- you something new - this trip includes The AFAST will be given Sept. 16 Sept. 18 at the Hilzhofen Golf Course.
survey will give leaders valuable insight porary to old school R&B, and every- two days of cooking classes in a villa, at 9 a.m. You must have a GT of at least Teams will consist of four players
on how we can improve information thing in between. Music by DJ Mark C. three nights in a lakeside apartment for 110 and a DA Form 4187. with a 20 Euro green fee and a $15 entry
delivery to you. Available at www. two, pool, sauna and breakfasts on the For more, call DSN 466-4040. Test- fee per player. Check in is at 7 a.m. with
grafenwoehr.army.mil. terrace. For more, call DSN 440-2638, ing services are offered in Bldg. 351. a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Registration is
‘Chewonit’ performs CIV 08821-750-2638. until Sept. 14.
The local U.S. rock band, ‘Chewonit,’
Customer service assessment will perform at the Vilseck VFW Open Hohenfels Holiday Bazaar If interested, email dlmwrhohen-
Participate in the 2009 annual Custom-
House, in Bldg. 133, starting at 8 p.m.
Thanksgiving in Paris The annual Hohenfels Holiday felssports@eur.army.mil or call DSN
er Service Assessment through Sept. 18. It has become traditional – like the Bazaar, hosted by the Hohenfels Com- 466-2868.
The band offers a wide assortment of rock
Customers who live, work or do turkey! Call DSN 440-2638, CIV 08821- munity and Spouses Club and Hohen-
music from the 70’s on. Open to all com-
business at U.S. Army Garrison Grafen- 750-2638 for cost and details. fels FMWR will be Sept 10-12, giving Marriage retreat
munity members. Adults only.
woehr have an opportunity to rate the All active-duty Soldiers and spouses
importance and performance of garrison “Stomp” cheese, pottery, rugs, furniture and more are invited to join the Family Life Center
services by logging onto www.my- Netzaberg Shoppette opening Enjoy this very athletic theater piece from vendors throughout Europe. Ven- on a Marriage Retreat to the Beautiful
armyvoice.org. The Netzaberg Shoppette will hold its dors will be in the Hohenfels Post Gym, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort Sept. 18-20.
in Munich at the Circus Krone Sept.
For more, call CIV 09641-83-8881 grand opening Sept. 24 at 9 a.m. Bldg. 88, and the Community Activities Call DSN 466-3473 or email an-
or e-mail usagggrafenwoehr.cms@eur. The facility will have a four-pump Center, Bldg. 40, gelique.dilmore@eur.army.mil for more.
army.mil. island, a fully functional Snack Ave with The Holiday Bazaar will take place
DSN 440-2638, CIV 08821-750-2638.
drink station and complete Java Coffee on 10 Sept. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., on 11
program, a selection of DVDs to rent Sept. from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and on 12
Extreme bowling
Country night at ‘The Zone’ and books and magazines to purchase, a “Ben Hur Live” Bowl Your Brains Out with an
Join us for a good old fashion Coun- Sept. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Extreme Bowling twist every Saturday
walk-in cooler for cold beverages and a Watch the classic theatre Oct. 30-31, For more, visit www.hohenfelscsc.
try Music night tomorrow at the “The - from 8-11 p.m. Bowl as many games as
Class Six section. com or email kristin.bradley@yahoo.com.
Zone” Sports Bar at the Langenbruck nich. Show includes the recreation of the you want for just $10 for adults and $7
Center on Rose Barracks. famous chariot race. For more, call DSN for children ages 12 and under.
Participants must be 18 or older. For Free and reduced lunch 440-2638, CIV 08821-750-2638. Sept. 11 Memorial Service
more, call DSN 475-8822. All Free and Reduced School Lunch A Memorial Service is scheduled for
applications, including new applications 2:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Nainhof Chapel
Bowl Your Brains Out
Bowl Your Brains Out at Lane 17
GCSC super sign-up
Community members are invited to
for this school year and re-applications
for the upcoming school year, will be pro- Hohenfels to remember the victims of 9/11. every Monday from 5-9 p.m. Bowl as
many games as you want for just $7 for
cessed through CYS Central Registration
attend the GCSC community super sign-
up at the GCSC Thrift Shop Bldg 508,
ing 224, or Grafenwoehr Building 244.
- Briefs Hallo Hohenfels logo
With the new, three-day Hallo Hohen-
adults and $5 for children ages 12 and
under. Shoe rental included.
Sept 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. fels newcomers’ orientation beginning
CYS Central Registration Rose
Attend a “one-stop shopping” venue Guys Read Book Club this month, ACS staff is looking for a new Bilingual 1’s, 2’s
to sign-up for different activities offered Guys Read book club- for guys ages logo. If you have an idea for a logo, draw
a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and Every Tuesday in September, chil-
throughout USAG Grafenwoehr. Over 20 11-15. The September meeting is tomor- it up and submit it to ACS in person or to
the Grafenwoehr Central Registration dren ages 1-2 are invited to the library
different organizations will be present. row from 3-4 pm. The club is currently becky.genge1@eur.army.mil by Sept. 11.
is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday to listen to bilingual English/Spanish
through Friday. reading “Airman” by Eoin Colfer. Call
Operation Rising Star For more, call CIV 09662-83-2760 or DSN 466-1740 for more. Texas Hold’em, Bunco Registration is not required. Story
Win the ultimate recording music email cysinfo@eur.army.mil. MWR patrons are welcome to enjoy times are every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.
experience Sept. 11 and Sept. 18. WIC overseas themselves in either game Sept. 11. at the Library, Bldg. 49. For more, call
Local winners win $500 cash & advance If you would like to achieve better Texas Hold’em registration fee is DSN 466-1740.
to the Televised Finals; 2nd place win $250 American Legion $25, which includes a light buffet.
If you are interested in joining the health through nutrition, WIC Overseas-
in cash; 3rd place win $100 in cash. Hohenfels will be hosting nutrition classes. Bunco registration fee is $10 which
Audience, come vote and win American Legion in Grafenwoehr, call includes a light buffet. Doors will open
Bilingual preschoolers
CIV 09605-925770, or email georgie.t@ The session will be tomorrow from Every Tuesday in September, chil-
prizes too. Three-hundred dollars will 10:30-11:30 a.m. in Bldg. 10, ACS at the Zone at 5:30 p.m. and the games
t-online.de. dren ages 3-5 are invited to the library
be awarded to the most supportive unit room 121. will begin at 6:30 p.m. For more, call to listen to bilingual English/Spanish
or FRG. Topics covered will be Dietary DSN 466-2060.
Singers must be Active Duty, Re- AL-ANON Guidelines for Americans, Understand- Registration is not required. Story
serve, National Guard or military family AL-ANON meets every Thursday ing the New Food Pyramid, and The Nu- Durkheim’s Wurstmarkt
- times are every Tuesday at 10 a.m. at
members 18 and older. Doors open at trition Label-Making It Work for You. Join ITR Sept. 12 for one of the larg- the Library, Bldg. 49. For more, call
6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Location: est and most traditional public festivals
Grafenwoehr. DSN 466 1740.
Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center,
Bldg. 102/103. For more, call CIV 0171-983-9151. Coat drive
Join the Military Council of Catholic
Women as they collect coats to send to
the people of Afghanistan. Bring in your
used or new coats to the chapels through
tomorrow. For more, email gregnata-
lie4@aol.com.
Rothenburg
Step back into time with ITR in
Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
The bus will depart Hohenfels Sept.
5 from ODR, Bldg. H15, at 10 a.m. and
return to Hohenfels around 10:30 p.m.
The cost is $40 per person and the
price includes transportation to and from
Rothenburg.
people. For more, call DSN 466-2060.
173rd ABCT Banner Day
The 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat
Team will hold a Banner Day Sept. 13 at
Hohenfels Training Area in Germany.
Events scheduled include a Brigade
run, a Brigade photo, athletic competi-
tions, an awards ceremony and a BBQ.
The event is open to family members
and friends of the Sky Soldiers.
ATV training course
The ATV training course provides
safest ride possible. You must possess
a valid class C License. ATV Training
Courses will take place from 8 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. The cost is $75 per person.
The next courses are on Sept. 5, Sept.
12, Oct. 3 and Oct. 24. For more, call
DSN 466-2060.
September 2, 2009
Community Spotlight Bavarian News 15
What’s Happening
German 1 is scheduled for Oct. 6, 7, For more information, call CIV For more, call 09721-96-8234 or est score. Cost is $20 per two-person
Ansbach 13, 14, 20 and 21. German 2 is scheduled
for Sept. 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23.
09721-96-6822. email william.comeford@eur.army.mil. team. Cash prizes will be awarded. Tour-
nament is open to all I.D. card holders 18
All classes take place from noon to 1 and older.
Briefs p.m. at Katterbach ACS.
For more, call DSN 467-2883, CIV
The Personnel Transition Assistance
Community update forum
Do you want to know the calendar of For more, call CIV 09721-83391.
events for the community?
Rate Your Army Home 09802-83-2883. building 40 on Conn Barracks for those Do you have questions or concerns to Oktoberfest trip
USAG Ansbach community mem- transitioning or retiring. voice about a particular matter? Better Opportunities for Single Sol-
bers can participate in the Web-based Instructors wanted For more information, or to reserve a Come to the community update forum diers invites geographical bachelors and
customer service assessment at www. Ansbach’s Schools of Knowledge, seat call CIV 09721-96-8683 / 8693. in the Schweinfurt Elementary School single Soldiers on a trip to Munich for
myarmyvoice.org now through Sept. 18. Inspiration, Exploration and Skills multi-purpose room Tuesday at 6 p.m. Oktoberfest Sept. 19.
The survey allows you to personally Unlimited is looking for people willing 9 a.m.-noon Cost is 40 euro per person, and bus
rate the performance and importance to share their expertise with community • Career Status Bonus/Redux Retire- Middle, high school fun departs Finney Fitness Center at 6 a.m.
of garrison organizations that serve and youth is a variety of skills - and earn Middle-schoolers are invited to attend Join the biggest beer fest in the world!
support our Soldiers, family members, money in the process. the fall kick-off event Tuesday for Club Deadline to sign up is Sept. 15. Call
civilians and retirees. Child, Youth and Schools Services’ from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. CIV 09721-96-8476 for more.
You can also link to the survey at SKIES Unlimited program needs instruc- High-schoolers are invited to
the top of the garrison website at www. tors in culinary arts, art, hip hop dance, Newcomers orientation Bamberg teen center Sept. 10 from 5:30
ansbach.army.mil. voice and German language.
Get tips on birth and babies
Are you new to the Schweinfurt com- – 7 p.m. Dinner and rides home are Do you have a baby on the way and
For more, call DSN 468-7303, CIV munity? provided. want to be prepared with what to expect?
Newcomer orientation 0981-183-303. Sign up for Army Community Ser- Make new friends and have fun Come to Army Community Service’s
Katterbach Army Community Service playing games while learning about God. two-part series Birth-n-Babies at Led-
hosts a newcomer orientation - People Now hiring Awareness Program from Sept. 14-18. Call CIV 09721-96-8620 for more. ward ACS on Sept. 9 and 11 from 9 a.m.
Encouraging People - Sept. 22 and 23. The Ansbach Spouses and Civilians Free childcare is available the entire to noon.
The event features a driving tour Club Thrift Store is hiring for various po- week. Get acquainted with the military Lunch ‘n Learn Learn the latest about what is avail-
of the community, a visit to a German sitions. People interested should stop by community as well as the German town Got children? able for labor and delivery, how to
hospital and the Aquella swimming pool the store on Katterbach for an application. of Schweinfurt. Call DSN 354-6933, Come to the Ledward Library handle complications, and what to do the
and a tour of Ansbach. The Ansbach Thrift Store is open CIV 09721-96-6933 for more. Tuesday to learn about Tumblebooks,
Attendees will also be taught basic Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. a program that teaches kids to read in For more, call CIV 09721-96-6933.
German phrases and how to use the bus to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from noon to 6 Community Bible study creative ways.
system. p.m. For more, call CIV 0176-631-07391. Singles and families are invited to at- Call CIV 09721-96-1740 for details.
The trip is open to the whole family. Love and logic parent
tend a small group Bible study beginning Army Community Service offers
Participants should bring Euro for the bus Foster parents needed Sept. 9.
and also for lunch. For more, call ACS at Zines for teens
The Army Community Service Fam- The study is sponsored by Ledward Teenagers are invited to attend the a Love and Logic Parent.”
DSN 467-2883, CIV 09802-83-2883. ily Advocacy Program is looking for Chapel protestant service and meets for Zines for Teens club at Ledward Library Classes are held each Tuesday at
interested families to become emergency dinner and discussion every Wednesday meeting every Thursday at 6 p.m. School Age services from 9 to 11 a.m.
School lunch program foster care providers. from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at a home near Club is open to any teens interested Discover your parenting style and
Free and reduced-price school lunch The EPC program provides substitute Schweinfurt. in design, writing, photography, or edit- learn tips on how to raise loving, respect-
program applications are available now family care for children over a planned Call CIV 0170-277-8980 for direc- ing. Call CIV 09721-96-1740 for details. ful and responsible children.
for the next school year. period of time when a child’s parents are tions. Call CIV 09721-96-6933 for more.
The applications can be picked up at unwilling or unable to care for them.
the Army Community Service, all De- If you are interested, call DSN 467- National video game day
partment of Defense Dependent Schools, 2146, CIV 09802-83-2146. Celebrate national video game day at
Sign up for American Red Cross’ 16- Write a civilian resume
For those who are job searching
Ledward Library Sept. 12. Compete in a Call for details or to sign up at CIV or updating their resume, attend Army
5817 on Katterbach across from the com- Extreme Girl Scout Kick Off Rock Band tournament at 3 p.m.
munity mail room. 09721-96-1760. Community Service’s class, Civilian
Come join us for extreme games Resume 101, at the computer lab in bldg.
Applicants should complete the form, Girl Scout style Sept. 12 at the Ansbach
and bring it with a copy of the sponsor’s Barbecue, Bible studies TSP class held 206 on Ledward Barracks Sept. 10 from
Elementary School from 2-6 p.m. Protestant Women of the Chapel 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
orders and most recent leave and earn- All girls from kindergarten to 12th- Do you know everything there is to
ings statement to ACS. invites the community to a barbecue at know about the Thrift Savings Plan? This computer workshop will provide
grade are invited to attend.For more, Ledward Chapel today from 11 a.m. to information on the three most common
email gsansbach@yahoo.com. If not, come to Army Community
1:30 p.m. Service’s class Understanding the TSP, types of civilian resumes.
Personnel’s new hours Women can learn about the fall Bible Sept. 15 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Other topics discussed include how to
The Ansbach Military Personnel
Division has new operating hours for its Schweinfurt studies beginning Sept. 9 at Ledward
Chapel at 9 a.m. with free watch care
available.
This workshop provides information
for Soldiers and civilian employees on
write a cover letter and thank you letter.
Call CIV 09721-96-6933 for more.
the Thrift Savings Plan.
• ID card section - Mondays, Tues-
days, Thursdays and Fridays open 8 a.m. Briefs For more information, email pwoc.
schweinfurt@gmail.com.
Call CIV 09721-96-6933 for more. Smooth move seminar
to 4 p.m., with last customer sign in at Leaving the community? Army Com-
3:45 p.m. Wednesdays are for appoint- Sept. 11 service Bowling tournament munity Service wants to help smooth
ments only. The Ledward Chapel invites the com- High adventure weekend Join the Baker Double tournament at your transition.
• Installation Access System - Mon- munity to a 9-11 remembrance service Join Outdoor Recreation in an adven- the Kessler Bowling Center Sept. 12 at Attend a seminar at Ledward ACS Sept.
days-Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon and Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. ture to Austria Friday through Monday. 1 p.m. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. to get tips on packing,
1-4 p.m. Experience the excitement of can- Tournament includes three games shipping, moving with pets and more.
• Passport section - Mondays, Tues- yoning, whitewater rafting, hiking, and with the winner determined by the high- For more, call CIV 09721-96-6933.
Finney gym construction more.
days and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3:45 The family-friendly workout room at Cost is $299 per person. To sign up,
Finney Gym will be closed until Dec. 31 call CIV 09721-96-8080.
a.m. to 1 p.m. for training and open from due to ongoing renovations.
1-4 p.m. Wednesdays are for appoint- Come back after the New Year to
ments only. see the many improvements made to the Family fun Saturday
• Reassignment actions - Mondays- facility. Families are invited to come out to
Thursdays from 8 a.m. to noon and 1-4
Bash” day Saturday from noon-8 p.m.
a.m. to 1 p.m. for training and open 1-4 Internet policy questionnaire Enjoy water fun for kids and adults;
p.m. Wednesdays are for appointments The Department of Defense wants Donny Vox band performances at 2, 4,
only. your input on the internet policies that and 6 p.m.; and a family movie shown
For more, call DSN 467-2630, CIV it has in place. Fill out a short sur- at dusk.
09802-83-2630. vey at www.ourmilitary.mil/Content.
aspx?ID=45015428. Basketball sign-ups open
Learn German Community basketball registration is
Katterbach Army Community Ser- Spring soccer registration now open for male and female players
vice hosts German classes for beginners Registration for youth sports soc- with I.D. cards age 18 and over. Season
and move advanced speakers through- begins Sept. 16. Team will travel to
out the year. ends Friday. games on the weekends.
Upcoming Clubs:
September 2, 2009
Travel Bavarian News 17
Regensburg Left: Very high
vaulted ceilings,
A small city with
arched windows
and plaster
paintings make
a dramatic effect
at the Carmelite
a great history
Church in the City
Museum.
Far left: St. Ulrich
church, built in
1225 is now a
museum. The
church is one
example of the
varying styles
and eras of
architecture within
the city.
Story and photos by for the diocese of Prague. During the years
LOU STAGGER 1275 to 1634 a great Gothic cathedral was
Special to the Bavarian News
built. The towers were added in 1869. The
St. Peter Cathedral, or Regenburger Dom, is
Just over an hour south of Grafenwoehr the greatest example of German Gothic style
is the grand old city of Regensburg. With building in Bavaria.
a history spanning nearly 2000 years, you The cathedral is a “must see” while
can imagine why there might be a lot to see. visiting. It’s also the home of the German
equivalent to the Vienna Boys Choir: the
Danube rivers on the most northerly bend of Sparrows.
the Danube, Regensburg started its written Many works of art and artifacts are housed
history during the time of the Romans. within the cathedral and adjoining museums.
The Romans were able to use the rivers as Within the relatively small area of the Alte
defensive points but were never able to hold
the territory north of the river. They settled different styles of church architecture.
in by creating the Castra Regina, fort by the The City Museum of Regensburg is a
Regen River, and eventually it became known remarkably complete display of early history
as Regensburg. from the Roman and pre-Roman times to the
Christianity has been a great part of the height of Regensburg’s days as the capital of
history of Regensburg. St. Boniface set up a Bavaria through the time of the Holy Roman
Bishopric there in the year 739. Empire.
In 1135 a stone bridge was started across On the south end of town is the former
the Danube. It took 11 years to complete. Abby of St. Emmeram. It’s now the Palace of
The Crusader Knights for the second Thurn and Taxis. The Princess still lives here
and third Crusades crossed the bridge on with her two children.
their way to the Holy Lands. The bridge, The Thurn and Taxis rise to Royal status
“Steinerne Brucke” opened up the northern was remarkable.
European cities to trade with the powerhouse Tours are offered in the older sections of
of traders: Venice, Italy. the Palace which is larger than Buckingham
Regensburg gained well from this cross Palace in England. Here you can listen to
an English audio guide to learn the secret of
it developed its reputation for goldsmithing their rise from common public service and be
and making fabrics.
Regensburg opened up the eastern use this technique.
European borders to Christianity. In 845, If you want a small city with a huge
more than a dozen Bohemian princes came history, put Regensburg on your list of places
here to be baptized. to see while you are stationed here. You may
Regensburg became the head diocese
Above: Leaded glass
windows add character to a
hallway in the Regensburg
City museum.
Left: The twin towers of
the St. Peter Cathedral
or Regensburger Dom,
a “must-visit” while in
Regensburg, reach into
the clouds. The cathedral
is arguably the greatest
example of German Gothic
architecture in Bavaria. It is
also home to the prestigious
“Sparrows” boys choir and
to countless artifacts. The
cathedral was built between
1275 and 1634. The towers
were added in 1869.
18 Bavarian News
Medical September 2, 2009
Medical attention following animal
bites essential in rabies prevention
Story and photo by better chance of determining if the animal was
carrying rabies. In the event
JENNIFER WALSH that man’s best
BMEDDAC PAO
“The pet will likely be observed for about
10 days by a veterinarian to see if the animal’s friend turns
Man’s best friend is usually a beloved member behavior is indicative of rabies,” Woodring said. ferocious and
of the family and a loyal companion. But would “Whereas if the animal is wild, the only way to
you know what to do if friendly Fido suddenly tell if it has rabies is to euthanize it and examine
turned ferocious? the brain for lesions consistent with rabies.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control After assessing the situation surrounding an washing the
and Prevention Web site, dogs bite more than animal bite, the health care provider will determine wound with
4.7 million people each year. While most bites if treatment is needed. This could include further soap and
are easily treated and do not result in serious cleaning and treating of the wound as well as water for 15
injury or death, the Bavaria Medical Department medical therapy to prevent rabies.
“In the past, people may have heard of shots minutes and
Activity Preventive Medicine team says animal
bites should be taken seriously. being given in the abdomen if you were bitten
“There are two important things you should by an animal,” Woodring said. “However, this is appointment
do after an animal bite,” said Capt. Joseph no longer the case.”
Woodring, chief of Preventive Medicine. “Wash Instead, if the health care provider thinks there provider.
out the wound with water and soap for at least is a risk of contracting rabies, they may prescribe
15 minutes and then see a health care provider to Courtesy photo
assess whether you need to receive treatment.” administered during the course of a month.
To determine what type of medical treatment Additionally, patients would be treated with reason to have a health care provider assess your If left untreated, rabies almost always
is needed, the health care provider will ask a rabies immune globulin as soon as possible after bite regardless of how long it’s been since you becomes a fatal disease. However, if spotted early
series of questions such as whether the animal exposure to neutralize the virus. were bitten,” Woodring said. “Say you were enough, rabies can be treated.
was provoked, acting strangely, foaming at the Although the incubation period for rabies is bitten while you were down range and you “Don’t keep waiting to see how you feel in
mouth or dirty. Another sign to look for is if the typically three to eight weeks, rabies can become come home two months later. Go ahead and a couple of days,” Woodring said. “We have an
animal is wearing a collar, which could indicate active anywhere from six days to as long as seven schedule an appointment with your health care effective treatment plan that prevents rabies. Do
it is someone’s pet. years after a bite, according to Woodring. provider so they can assess if you need to be the right thing. Call your health care provider and
If the animal is someone’s pet, there is a “The lengthy time variable is one very good treated against rabies.” take charge of your health.”
Awareness Month
Check out the events your
local health clinic is hosting
TRICARE Press Release Make your preventive health appointments important signals that “it is now time
to ask for help.”
This is the first part of a two online. Find your local health clinic Bamberg
part series dealing with TRICARE
at the Europe Regional Medical Many programs are being commissary
The month of September is the
Command Web site, developed within the military health
system for psychological health issues clinic, by appointment
Month. It is important for you and http://ermc.amedd.army.mil/mtf, that include prevention, protection,
your family to have the best health diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
possible. and click on the “Online Appointment” It is important for us to recognize
health clinic, by appointment
During the month, TRICARE will
focus on four important facets of good
link. Online appointments are available and treat those “mental injuries” that Grafenwoehr
are keeping you and your family
health: around the clock, long after the appointments from experiencing the best mental or
desk at clinics have closed. psychological health possible.
Tools to help
v a c c i n e s ( f o u n d a t w w w. c d c . There are many resources at your
Physical health gov/vaccines) to include newly
younger if you have a family history recommended vaccines: preventive health measures, seeking health clinic
TRICARE covers most inpatient of breast cancer.
and outpatient care that is medically Papanicolaou (Pap) annually Hohenfels
necessary and considered proven. mental distress is very important.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) Military OneSource offers
Equally important to primary care consecutive normal exams, may be p.m., community bazaar
is preventive health care which can done every three years.
help you live a healthier, longer life. 15: Car seat safety checks, 10
Male screenings include This is not an all inclusive list found at www.militaryonesource.
testicular exam annually for males of the Clinical Preventive Services com.
are eligible for a range of clinical offered by TRICARE so make sure
preventive services, including Afterdeployment.com at www.
of cryptorchidism, orchiopexy or you check with your primary care afterdeployment.org
examinations, immunizations and testicular atrophy. provider to assure you are up to date on elementary school
periodic screenings based on your age, education on many issues such as
Prostate cancer examination is the appropriate screenings for yourself
health history and family history. offered annually for all men beginning and your family.
Coverage varies for Prime and reconnecting with family and friends, post gym
at age 50 (earlier if family history anger, substance abuse and kids and
of prostate cancer). The screenings Mental health deployment. Illesheim
it is important to also focus on our An anonymous behavioral 11: Health fair, noon to 4 p.m., PX
Remember, prevention is the best
way to take care of yourself and your Colorectal Cancer exams for at www.militarymentalhealth.org/
family. both men and women start at age 40 There is much in the news lately on
suicide prevention, Traumatic Brain chooselang.asp.
Comprehensive health with physical exam and occult blood
promotion and disease preventive tests every year. Sigmoidoscopy Injury, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury TRICARE Coverage? 1 p.m., Illesheim Elementary
examinations: One comprehensive exams should be done every three to and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, School
disease preventive clinical evaluation all of which has a special impact on
colonoscopy every 10 years beginning our military families. outpatient behavioral health care visits
months and older during the following at age 50. TBI and MTBI occur when the without a referral.
Cardiovascular Screenings: head is struck or shaken violently
such as with a fall or an explosion or limited to length of appointment and Katterbach
Everyone should get cholesterol
Targeted health promotion and blast. PTSD occurs when someone frequency
disease prevention examinations: Inpatient admissions
The following screening Blood pressure checks should be
examinations may be performed done at least every two years. One may not have experienced any
during either the above periodic Vision screening: Active duty admission)
comprehensive health promotion but may still experience depression,
examination or as part of other patient three years old and older, are authorized anxiety, phobias or the like.
encounters. one comprehensive eye exam by a Sadness, loneliness, feelings of admission) Schweinfurt
The intent is to maximize preventive specialist every year. • Residential Treatment for patients
care. Infants are screened by their sleeping too much or too little, feeling
Cancer Screenings: Did you know primary care provider at birth and at angry or irritable or just numb or any days (available only in the U.S.) health clinic
that not all insurances pay for various six months of age. change in personality are just a few of
preventive screenings? Children who are standard the symptoms that should signal you
TRICARE leads the way in be neficiaries between the ages of to seek help no matter what may have days for detoxification if needed.
providing a robust preventive health three and six years are authorized led up to these feelings. Lifetime benefit limited to three
screening opportunity for both two comprehensive eye exams by a Just like a high fever and trouble inpatient treatment programs. Vilseck
TRICARE Prime and TRICARE specialist. breathing may be symptoms that
Standard. make you seek care from a doctor, the Bavarian News for information shopping center
Female screenings include covered for visual screenings. any behavioral health symptoms, regarding TRICARE benefits and
breast cancer screenings with physical Immunizations: Age appropriate which may be more subtle, are equally mental and dental health.
20 Bavarian News
Blackhawk News September 2, 2009
Soldiers aid nomadic Bedouin camps
near Karbala with shoes, clothes, toys
Story and photo by
Pfc. BETHANY L. LITTLE
172nd Infantry Brigade
-
-
-
‘ We are very grateful.
These are all things that
everyone here can use,
-
especially the clothes
and shoes for the
‘
smaller children.
Ali Shallal -
A young camp resident
-
- Staff Sgt. Joseph W. Rippey, squad leader, 1st Platoon, Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion,
-
77th Field Artillery Regiment sorts through shoes to give to Bedouin children, August
22. The clothing, shoes and toys were a combined donation from the 172nd Infantry
Civil affairs in Iraq continues with new company
Story and photo by
Capt. STEPHEN C. SHORT
172nd Infantry Brigade - -
- -
-
- -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
cases the guidon of his company to symbolize the transfer of authority to the 1411th
CA Company. Bravo Company has deployed three times in the Global War on Terror
to Afghanistan and twice in Iraq.
Multi-talented musician boosts morale of fellow Soldiers
Story and photo by
Pfc. BETHANY L. LITTLE -
172nd Infantry Brigade
-
- -
-
-
Pfc. Andrew
Wells plays
- his guitar
while Sol-
- - diers take
a break to
listen. Wells
- - also plays
- bass guitar,
trombone,
trumpet,
drums, sings
and writes
his own
songs.
-
-
22 Bavarian News Ansbach September 2, 2009
Story and photos by She said in addition to the overall interior “We are hiring now for three more positions. As The store re-opened to raving reviews on
RONALD H. TOLAND JR. painting, they painted the club’s logo on a wall to Aug. 27.
Bavarian News
the right of the entrance and added a slogan. two people.” “I love it! I found my fan and some PT
“This year we chose ‘Helping put Unity in The store now offers perks for volunteers, like running shoes for 25 cents - can’t beat that. I’ll
The Ansbach Spouses and Civilians Club discounts and childcare reimbursement, and the
spruced up the Katterbach Thrift Store to Emerson. “We should all be putting unity in club plans to offer something for customers, too. Ndiaye of Echo Company 3-158 Aviation.
provide more perks and put some unity in the community - we are all one community and we “In the winter we’ll offer cocoa and coffee To regular thrifty shoppers, the changes are
community. all want to help each other.” and see if we can get some snacks in there, too welcome. “It is a nice change - the colors are
Some hard work by club members, along with Some of the other major changes in the store - it is a way to get people connected,” she said. bright, prices are good and I like the sales, like
help and resources from the community, made the included moving the furniture to the middle “It makes our community look better and shows the 10 and 25 cent items,” said Hazel Edwards,
change a welcome reality, said ASCC president section of the store; moving the clothes to the we have community pride - we want to make a special education teacher at the Katterbach
Kimberly Emerson. back; adding a bigger baby section; adding a book difference, leaving a better place for the people Middle/High School, noting that there is a larger
“We needed to improve it so people would store; putting in new glass-tops for the showcases; who are coming later.” variety of items in the store versus other local
want to shop here more,” she said. “If we want installing new carpeting; and building shelves for Emerson said unity in the community was stores. “I do not shop hardly any place else,”
to make more money for the thrift store, we have clothes to help the staff sort donations and clean readily apparent during the renovation process. she added.
to put back into it. Improvement is always a out clutter. “I want people at Ansbach to know how “They changed it around quite a bit - it is a lot
“It helps us make better use of our space,” said supportive the rest of the community has been more organized, a lot clearer and more accessible.
garrison is doing.” Emerson. “It has improved so much from where it to help us remodel - the post exchange with It is a great place to shop and who does not like
She said that the old look had a blue patriotic giveaways, self help with supplies and the air conditioning in Germany?” said Jennifer
theme, but it was a bit antiquated and in need of The store is also getting a scanning system directorate of public works with shelving,” she Smith, family readiness support assistant for
a facelift. said. “We really spent probably $50 on painting, 2-159 Aviation.
“We wanted fresh,” said Emerson. “The provide better customer service, Emerson said. but the rest came mostly from self help and their And Emerson was thrilled with the turn out.
spouses club owns the store - we want our The improvements will also create new jobs, support.” “It is packed,” she said. “We had to keep
customers to feel a sense of fun and excitement. she said. The newly-renovated store hosted a grand people out 15 minutes before opening - sales
We want bright and cheery and welcome for the “The more money we make, the more we can re-opening Aug. 27 with a back-to-school sale are good today and most customers are walking
customers to feel good.” spend on salaries and jobs will open up,” she said. and recieved rave reviews. around with a bag.”
Customers check-out at the
newly renovated Katterbach
Thrift Store.
The Ansbach Spouses and
Civilians Club plans to
further improve the shopping
experience at the store with a
new scanning and debit card
system.
For more on the thrift store, call
DSN 467-2534 or CIV 09802-83-
2534.
Thrifty customers and children shop at the newly renovated Katterbach Thrift Store.
The Ansbach Spouses and Civilians Club spruced up the store with a fresh coat
of paint and painted the club’s logo on a wall to the right of the entrance, added a
slogan and hosted a grand re-opening Aug. 27 with a back-to-school sale.
by RONALD H. TOLAND JR. misconduct actions specialist. of nationality. progressive and sequential discipline theft and receiving stolen property;
Bavarian News While in Germany, members On top of that, when civilians for consequences,” said Bond. “We violation of ration regulations, i.e.,
of the military community are break host nation laws or violate U.S. have to have some type of government selling rationed merchandise or black-
Living in Germany with U.S. governed by special international regulations, the military can revoke or control and it’s basically case-by-case, market operations; violation of postal
government support is a privilege agreements, including the Status of suspend logistical support - you abuse but based on precedence.” regulations; assault consummated by
for civilians within the military Forces Agreement, governing the it, you lose it, said Bond. Within a calendar year, Bon usually battery to include aggravated assault,
community - a privilege that relationship between Germany and the “Every situation is different, but the sees about 100 cases. spouse abuse, assault and battery on a
comes with responsibilities and U.S. military on matters of criminal end result is usually from a series of She explained that the host nation child under 16, child abuse or neglect;
expectations. jurisdiction as well as other legal and serious offenses,” she said. “Sanctions has criminal jurisdiction over civilians drug offenses to include wrongful
It is a good idea for people to know civil matters. or consequences are recommended during peacetime and civilians possession or use of a controlled
what is expected of them and what U.S. civilian employees and U.S. to the commander for the infraction associated with the U.S. Army in substance, smuggling a controlled
can happen to them when they fail to family members are subject to the whether it is a letter, loss of shopping Germany fall under the jurisdiction substance, wrongful distribution of a
live up to those responsibilities, said German jurisdiction and laws in privileges for six months, or worse of the German authorities, even if controlled substance; communicating
Donna Bond, the garrison civilian criminal and civil actions, regardless - like being barred from any military they live in U.S. Army government a threat; and cruelty to animals or
installation in Europe or sent back to housing areas. animal neglect.
Top 5 tips from the
the U.S.” “There have been cases recently in She also listed some of the
The regulation that governs the government housing areas, especially administrative actions that are
authority to take administrative with civilian spouses, and the German available to the commander from the
action when civilian misconduct law applies because we are on their moderate to the extreme: counseling;
occurs is Army Europe Regulation land,” she said. a letter of warning; performing
27-9. It delegates authority to But how does one know if they are community service; adverse actions;
the Civilian Misconduct Action suspension or revocation of logistical
1. Shoplifting will result in the suspension of AAFES privileges for Authority, the garrison commander,
who is responsible for upholding the of active duty Soldiers along with
support privileges (exchange
facilities, commissary, Morale,
six - 12 months. morale, welfare, safety, wellbeing retirees and their family members; Welfare and Recreation activities,
and order within the geographical non-appropriated and appropriated U.S. Army Club privileges, check
2. Driving Privileges will drugs.
involving intoxication or
be suspended or revoked for cases area.
“The commander is like the mayor
fund employees, their family members
and members of households; family
cashing privileges, government
housing, ration privileges, Class
of a city,” said Bond. members of U.S. military members; Six privileges, driving privileges);
3. Government Housing mayinbe terminated awhen a sponsor or
family member is involved illegal use of housing facility. In
She added that the regulation
gives the commander the authority to
members of households of U.S.
military personnel; Department of
barred from entry onto installations
(commanders may bar offenders
determine the actions that are taken Defense Dependent Schools and from areas and facilities under their
addition, vandalizing or maliciously abusing Government, school, in reaction to offenses committed their family members; employees of responsibility and USAREUR-
or personal property will result in the imposition of administrative by civilians associated with the contractors and their family members; wide); and the early return of family
actions. military. government consular and diplomatic members will be considered when
“It is where the rubber meets personnel and their family members; other administrative measures are not
4. Actions imposed forentry and early return todistribution of drugs
can include a bar to
the possession, use, and
CONUS.
the road,” said Bond, noting it does
not apply to Soldiers. “It is only for
and military, civilian and other persons
who sponsor family members for
expected to be effective.
However, these are not all-inclusive
civilians because the Soldiers fall logistical support. lists, Bond said.
5. All drivers of USAREUR-plated cars must possess a USAREUR under the Uniform Code of Military
Justice.
Some of the most common offenses
Bond sees include: driving and
“Try to be aware of the rules - know
how the government expects you to
driver’s license. This includes local national families who have “The regulation is used as a guide, behave,” she said.
German driver’s liscenses. like a civilian personnel management and speeding; larceny to include
employee relations table of penalties: shoplifting, fraud and embezzlement, 468-7760 or CIV 0981-183-760.
24 Bavarian News Schweinfurt September 2, 2009
Focus groups begin evaluating Army
Family Covenant delivery in Europe
Story and photo by conducted focus groups to assess the success of they become more aware of the Army Family garrisons across Europe.
the Army Family Covenant in Schweinfurt July
‘
MARK HEETER
Schweinfurt CI Chief 30 and 31. IMCOM-Europe project team is primarily looking
“What we’re trying to do is make sure to see how the program
A four-person team from U.S. Army Europe, we’re not just doing the assessment where we While many A lot of people is being delivered around
the Installation Management Command-Europe, get information, but we give information to customers recognize Europe.
and the Europe Regional Medical Command these people in the focus group sessions, so free and reduced-fee
child care as AFC
are familiar with “(Ham) wanted to
know, do we focus on
benefits, some do not the program and one community too
see the covenant in much or not enough on
other projects, such as the improvements another. Or do we give
a balanced approach
improvements to other that are taking across Europe that
facilities and what everybody got equal
place, but they emphasis on the
didn’t actually
shopping areas and other
spaces where members
of the Army Family
gather.
“A lot of people are
understand that
it’s linked to the
‘ said.
to know, what did we
get right, what did we
get wrong, how we
familiar with the program covenant itself. can do it better, what
and the improvements recommendations would
that are taking place, Leslie Mehall he need to take back to
but they didn’t actually Special Assistant to USAREUR Commanding General DA (the Department of
understand that it’s the Army) at the two-
linked to the covenant
The assessment will not end with the focus
Gen. Carter Ham, USAREUR commanding groups, according to Mehall and Patrick but
general, who ordered the review of the covenant will be immediately followed by a month long
as it nears the end of its second year. web-based survey.
All members of the Army family in Europe
Construction workers build what will become an exercise room at the Finney Fitness facilitated four focus groups – employees, are encouraged to log on to www.armymwr.
Center on Conn Barracks. The project is a facility improvement that grew directly out single Soldiers, company-grade leaders and com/fmwrc/AFC/survey.htm and take the survey,
of Army Family Covenant, currently under review at garrisons throughout Europe. Soldiers and family members – in each of nine which will be available through Sept. 15.
Army Family Action Plan improves health clinic
referral process, brings alternatives to patients
by SANDRA WILSON (AFAP) is just such a great program. It helps in several
Bavarian News
different ways, not only bringing issues up front to the forward shortage at the clinic, the new
If something is broken, Army adaptations to the referral process can
so we can fix them, but also ... we can explain ... what we’re declare another successful moment of
it. The three-day AFAP conference doing to fix it already.’ positive change through AFAP in the
was held back in February, and since community of Schweinfurt.
then, positive change has been on the Katy McClelland, AFAP Program Manager
horizon in many different Schweinfurt
given a referral to an outside doctor clinic commander, emphasizing the
“It’s just such a great program. It described the process of getting that the referral office setting up an need for people to use the forum to
helps in several different ways, not appointment as “complicated and appointment with the German doctor Eliminating part of the waiting
only bringing issues up front to the - was causing delays that could time for referrals was made possible
member reported in an issue paper by the cross-training of several staff or St. Joseph’s and you have an issue
that was submitted early this year. members. … you need to let us know so that we
“After that issue was brought up The patient liaisons have now been can resolve it so that others don’t have
said Katy McClelland, AFAP program to our commander’s attention, we up sheet, patients are now able to trained to assume the responsibilities
manager at Schweinfurt’s Army created a different way that a person virtually eliminate the middle step by Services are available in the
Community Service. walking into the TRICARE referral to process the paperwork and make TRICARE office Monday through
One particular issue about the
health clinic’s TRICARE referral the provider. Wednesday and Friday afternoon
process was brought up more than appointment, they had to wait - now “We have two books: one for the
once at the conference through same-day appointments and that is always try really hard to get them closed.
submissions from the community. Having to make three appointments a walk-in … the other is they have The entire health clinic is
Patients that were seen by a - one with the health clinic, then a choice of making an appointment closed every Friday afternoon for
health clinic provider and then returning for another appointment for later on. So that has allowed that and technician. “I always see that we mandatory training.
HELP Crocodiles
WANTED dock at chapel
How about getting
paid to stay in shape?
The U.S. Army
for VBS
Garrison Schweinfurt Chaplain (Maj.) Kevin Forrester,
sports and fitness dressed as the Bible’s Old Testament
program officials are pharoah, declares to the kids that
looking for certified he will not let God’s people go from
captivity. Vacation Bible School docked
fitness instructors to
at Ledward Chapel this week with the
boost their programs. kids ages 4 through 10 learning how
For information, call to fear not because “God is powerful”.
CIV 09721-96-8234. Nearly 115 kids attended each day with
more than 65 volunteers from 11 years
old to adult helping to make the chapel
event a success.
Photo by Sandra Wilson
September 2, 2009
Schweinfurt Bavarian News 25
Acclaimed author entertains community
members with workshop, ‘conversations’
Story and photo by the subject of writing.
EMILY ATHENS “I really like these workshops. I Gary Shteyngart,
Bavarian News talk about what writing means to me, right, notable
how I became a writer, take questions,
and do a brief reading. Writing is my author of novels
The Schweinfurt community
enjoyed an evening of the arts Aug. dream job. … It’s a calling in some and travel pieces,
19 outside of the Conn Community ways. And having an experience like reads to community
Club where participants sipped wine, this makes it even better and more members during a
nibbled hors d’oeuvres and mingled. worthwhile,” Shteyngart said. writer’s workshop
Critically-acclaimed novelist Shteyngart, who is also a held Aug. 19 on
and travel writer, Gary Shteyngart, contributing editor at Travel and
Conn Barracks.
author of award winning books, “The
Russian Debutante’s Handbook” and essays featured in such publications The workshop,
“Absurdistan,” was the guest of honor, as The New Yorker, Granta, GQ, consisting of
humoring the audience with story Esquire, and the New York Times, a poetry jam, a
readings, book signings and a question read two personal essays to the crowd question and
and answer session. once published in The New Yorker. He answer session,
“I like to have a program away concluded the book reading portion
from the library and have the people with two blurbs from “The Russian book readings
from the community involved. Debutante’s Handbook.” and signings,
It’s beneficial because we are in a According to Shteyngart, the was part of the
deployment situation, so we have to atmosphere of workshops like this “Conversations”
make it special for family members are relaxed and takes participants series in USAREUR
here,” said Christine Willis, librarian away from a typical academic setting, libraries.
at the Ledward Library. adding that “there’s nothing at stake
The evening kicked off with a here.”
poetry jam session and presentation Shteyngart’s visit concluded his tour Army Europe Libraries Web site, meet notable authors. Shteyngart who said, “If you don’t
by the summer hire teens, followed by of eight garrisons within Europe as part these workshops are meant to provide “Reading takes people away from read, you don’t think.”
a question and answer portion where of the Army-Europe “Conversations” inspiration for anyone interested in the day in and day out realities, which For more information on
attendees could enjoy getting to know literary discussions, which has brought creative writing, or just reading in is so sad at times. Reading is your the “Conversations” series, visit
Shteyngart, as he answered personal in authors like Daniel Wallace and general, while giving Soldiers and fantasy, your imagination, and that’s www.library.eur.army.mil/events/
questions and offered his expertise on Andrew Carroll. According to the family members the opportunity to what’s important,” Willis said, quoting conversations/index.htm.
Lunch Bunch serves up culture, camaraderie New gymnastics
class
by EMILY ATHENS family-oriented restaurant with the assistance Christina Carmona said, ACS lunch bunch
Bavarian News of an ACS local national staff member. Open to coordinator.
all I.D. card holders, it is a monthly opportunity Lunch bunch meets the last Thursday of
tumbles into
Living in a foreign country can prove to to mingle with other Schweinfurt community every month with the goal of helping community
be a challenging undertaking, especially when members while learning valuable information members decipher the menu, order, and properly
venturing off post to the surrounding areas. about dining. tip. It is also important they understand the
Army Community Service offers a lunch “Every month we try to find different general customs of German restaurants, Carmona
Schweinfurt
bunch program where Soldiers and spouses restaurants. It’s important they feel more added.
can enjoy an outing at a budget-friendly and comfortable just going to a German restaurant,” “Germany has different traditions, so lunch
bunch is good for an icebreaker … for families
Members of to get more comfortable in just going out. It takes by SANDRA WILSON
the community away the fear of just walking into a new place,”
Bavarian News
enjoy a meal she said, explaining that she hopes to motivate
at a restaurant people to venture off post more and explore the Tumbling, vaulting, and cartwheels have
German culture. finally made their way into the Schools of
in Schweinfurt Carmona encourages everybody to bring their Knowledge, Inspiration , Exploration and Skills,
during Army children, especially during the warm weather. otherwise known as SKIES. Gymnastics for kids
Community “In the summer months, my focus will be to ages 4 to 6 and 7 to 9
Service’s take them to pretty biergartens and places with has begun at the Abrams
lunch bunch. playgrounds for the kids outside,” she said. Center.
Every month, “I love to go out to eat, so lunch bunch is a “The good thing
great opportunity to go to a new restaurant with about gymnastics - you
participants can someone who speaks German. I have even gained don’t have to be good at
enjoy a budget some new friends out of it also,” said Holly anything. The kids can
and family Nichols, a 172nd Support Battalion spouse who start from the really little
friendly lunch participates in the program. things and get better,”
outing with a The next lunch bunch is scheduled for Sept. said Esther Perez, the new
local national 24. Participants are asked to meet at 11 a.m. gymnastics instructor.
guide. in the ACS lobby to carpool to the restaurant. The SKIES program
Lunches usually run until approximately 2 p.m. h a s a l s o o b t a i n e d Perez
Photo by Christina To sign up, or for more information, call ACS at equipment to enhance
Carmona CIV 09721-96-6933. the variety of exercises provided for the
participants.
Prima
“I called DJK … and asked if they had
equipment, and they said yes. They gave it to
us for free,” said SKIES Director Peter Potter,
referring to a local sports club.
Ballerina Along with additional donated equipment,
Perez brings a wealth of personal experience to
the classes. She has been involved in gymnastics
From left, Shannon Alexander, for 20 years, began teaching it when she was 14
years old and obtained her license to teach by
Sydney Miller, Deja DeBorja, the age of 17.
and Morgan Hopson practice Participants will learn a new skill each week,
for the end-of-summer including exercises related to body tension and
ballet performance. School games involving jumping and hoops.
of Knowledge, Inspiration, “The kids learn how to use their body,” Perez
Exploration, and Skills offers
ballet classes for youth ages “They develop what I call body-memory.
3 to 9, held at Schweinfurt They will learn better and adapt their muscles
Elementary School. Classes better. With a class like this, kids will open up
will resume in September. To to sports in general,” Potter said.
sign up your child, call CIV For the younger group, participants can
09721-96-6460. expect 45 minutes of instruction from 3:30 to
4:15 p.m., while ages 7-9 will meet for an hour
Photo by Sandra Wilson from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays. It is possible
to sign up for the classes at any time.
For more information, call SKIES at CIV
09721-96-6460.
To view more photos of the SKIES ballet performance, as well as other community events and celebrations, visit the
.
26 Bavarian News Around the Force September 2, 2009
Iraq drawdown moves into second phase
as planners discuss challenges still ahead
13th Sustainment Command transferred to Iraqi control to support
Expeditionary Public Affairs the enabling of Iraqi Security Forces as
the U.S. withdraws, Pettit said.
As Multi-National Corps - Iraq “We’re really starting to prime the
moves into the second phase of the pump to get stuff moving out of here,”
drawdown of troops and equipment she said. “We’ll continue to support
from Iraq, it faces challenges ranging (Operation Enduring Freedom in
from the withdrawal of roughly 80,000 Afghanistan) where we can.”
She said phase two of the drawdown
with pink roller skates. will build on the steps taken during
phase one. In phase one, non-essential
phase one of the safe and responsible
withdrawal of equipment and personnel two, it will be retrograded, transferred
in Iraq - setting the conditions - it has or redirected to support other U.S.
moved into the second phase of the military priorities, Pettit said.
drawdown without pause, said Lt.
Col. Tammie Pettit, the Multi-National
Corps - Iraq logistics plans chief at a the 13th Sustainment Command
sustainment conference Aug. 15 on (Expeditionary) supply branch
Camp Victory. technician, said he plans to bring the
“It’s been a lot of hard work for a number of SSAs in Iraq to18 at the end
lot of people,” Pettit said. “We’ve done of phase two.
pretty well.” Phase three will focus on safety
Brig. Gen. Heidi Brown is leading operations, Pettit said.
the responsible drawdown of the The retrograde of equipment not
roughly 130,000 troops in Iraq to required to support the upcoming
roughly 50,000 by August 2010. elections in Iraq will allow units to
Additionally, the number of civilian focus on enhancing route security,
contractors in country is slated to be moving forward with the drawdown
reduced to roughly 75,000, Brown and supporting redeploying units,
said. she said.
Based on Brown’s directives, Pettit “Protection of the force will still
said MNC-I has planned to reduce the be paramount during this drawdown,”
Photo by Spc. Brandy M. Oxford
nearly 200 bases throughout Iraq to Pettit said.
six multi-class supply support activity Orthel said this phase should bring Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division-
hubs or SSAs - with roughly 20 smaller the number of SSAs to 11. Baghdad, clean communication equipment as they prepare to return home at the end of their 15-month
bases, called spokes - by September Lt. Col. Lew Cureton, the deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom earlier this year. Planners in Iraq are entering into
2010, with complete withdrawal by 13th Sustainment Command the second phase of the drawdown, as they plan for retrograding personnel and equipment in the
December 2011. (Expeditionary) munitions branch
chief, said he looks to the multi- coming months.
“None of this is negotiable,” said Pettit.
“This is a mission we cannot fail.” national divisions to determine where where that’s going to be,” he said. innumerable amount of connexes for the personnel necessary to expedite
MNC-I teams inventory, repair and to send munitions as they are packaged He said he knows those locations this process safely, she said.
update items the U.S. military will and moved out of the SSAs during the will change throughout the drawdown equipment and parts to pink roller “It’s going to take everybody,” she
transport to Afghanistan, Kuwait, other next phases in the transition. and anticipates the groups will adapt skates present a particularly large said. “There is a lot of work to do. The
overseas areas of operation or back to “We can’t really draw down until accordingly. challenge in the drawdown, said Pettit. folks following all of us are going to
the United States, and the items to be we have a good understanding of Throughout Iraq, a large but Units should look within themselves
by JOHN J. KRUZEL
American Forces Press Service “Despite important achievements in various years.
The polling results are expected to be
The commander of U.S. Central Command areas, given the deterioration in the security
“Despite widespread Taliban threats and
where the Taliban and other extremists have situation, an enormous amount of hard work numerous attacks, millions of Afghan citizens
stepped forward to vote for their next president
cautioned that success there demands more than and for provincial councils,” Petraeus said.
Citing counterinsurgency successes since
With violence reaching peak levels this Gen. David H. Petraeus, Commander, U.S. Central Command the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, Petraeus
summer, reversing enemy security gains will highlighted a 600 percent increase in the number
require sustained commitment from U.S. and But more than just killing or capturing terrorists cleared of insurgents, developing Afghan of students - matched by a seven-fold increase
multinational forces, Army Gen. David H. and extremists, he added, the mission requires a in trained teachers - at thousands of newly
Petraeus told the American Legion in Louisville, counterinsurgency campaign akin to the strategy constructed schools and other achievements
Ky., Aug. 25. he oversaw as the top U.S. commander in Iraq illegal drugs. in building roads, hospitals and the nation’s
“Despite important achievements in various -- an effort that placed greater focus on securing “They are also working with our civilian physical and political infrastructure.
areas, given the deterioration in the security the population. partners in helping to foster the growth of At the same time, however, Petraeus said
situation, an enormous amount of hard work “And that is exactly what our troopers, along Afghan governance so it can achieve legitimacy the Taliban and other elements of the so-
with their Afghan, NATO and other international in the eyes of the people,” he added. called extremist syndicate have expanded their
Petraeus said in his prepared remarks. partners, are intent on executing,” he said. “Our troopers’ hard work has, despite the
Nearly eight years into the war in Afghanistan, About 62,000 American and 38,000 allied increase in violence, paid dividends in a number push from those engaged in counterinsurgency
Petraeus said the primary objective remains forces are deployed to Afghanistan. of areas,” he said. efforts in Afghanistan.
clear: to ensure that transnational extremists Petraeus gave a snapshot of the Multinational troops last week aided Afghan “Reversing the downward trend in security
such as al-Qaida are not able to re-establish the counterinsurgency tactics that troops are security forces in protecting some 6,000 polling in particular will require sustained, substantial
sanctuaries they had prior to the 9/11 attacks. carrying out: rebuilding communities recently stations during the country’s national election, commitment from all involved,” he said.
American Forces Press Service stress disorder, VA Secretary Eric K. administration as we move VA Comments on the proposed rule PTSD is a recognized anxiety
Shinseki announced today. forward in its transformation to the will be accepted over the next 60 disorder that can follow seeing or
The Veterans Affairs Department “The hidden wounds of war 21st century,” Shinseki said. experiencing an event that involves
is taking steps to help veterans seeking are being addressed vigorously VA is publishing a proposed published after consideration of all actual or threatened death or serious
compensation for post-traumatic and comprehensively by this regulation Aug. 24 in the Federal comments received, VA officials injury to which a person responds
Register to make it easier for a said. with intense fear, helplessness or
veteran to claim service connection Under the new rule, VA would not horror and is not uncommon in
for PTSD by reducing the evidence require corroboration of a stressor war.
needed if the stressor claimed is related to fear of hostile military or Feelings of fear, confusion or
related to fear of hostile military or terrorist activity if a VA psychiatrist
terrorist activity. or psychologist confirms that the but if the feelings don’t go away
stressful experience recalled by or get worse, a veteran may have
Post-traumatic stress disorder a veteran adequately supports a PTSD.
is a recognized anxiety diagnosis of PTSD and the veteran’s VA is bolstering its mental
symptoms are related to the claimed health capacity to serve combat
disorder that can follow seeing stressor. veterans, adding thousands of new
or experiencing an event that Previously, claims adjudicators professionals in the last four years.
involves actual or threatened were required to corroborate that The department also has
death or serious injury to which a noncombat veteran actually established a toll-free suicide
a person responds with intense experienced a stressor related to prevention helpline - 1-800-273-
fear, helplessness or horror, and hostile military activity. TALK - and has a Web site available
This rule would simplify the for online chat in the evenings at
is not uncommon in war. development that is required for www.suicidepreventionlifeline.
Photo illustration by Stephen Morgan org/Veterans/.
28 Bavarian News
Sports September 2, 2009
Grafenwoehr Physical Fitness Center
begins highly praised exercise program
Story and photo by earlier because I look back now and I’m thinking the globe and so are number of PFCs that offer CrossFit classes two times a week on Monday
AMY NEWCOMB all of those step classes I taught, everything else CrossFit equipment and programs. and Wednesday at 6 p.m. “We encourage
Bavarian News
I do ... why didn’t I just do this, it incorporates Mulligan has been a dedicated CrossFitter everyone to go through this training as the class
your whole body and we are just glad that we for 3 years and his ultimate goal is to participate provides good information about the (CrossFit)
The U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr can now spread it,” Linville said. in the 2011 CrossFit games. “This is the third program and proper exercise techniques are
Physical Fitness Center is now harboring new Mulligan and Linville began the Workout (CrossFit game) and it is just blowing up ... a demonstrated,” Kearse said.
equipment and, chances are, you a growing of the day, or ‘WOD’ as CrossFitters call it, good indication of the growth of the program: Sign up for classes have begun but are
number of people have been using it. This after they showing the class how to perform in 2005 there was about 110 CrossFit PFCs ...
new equipment has been placed in the USAG today there is over 1,200,” Mulligan said. serve basis. “Depending on the availability of
Grafenwoehr PFC for those dedicated to class rotated around the different stations, Both Mulligan and Linville will continue the instructor we are looking at adding another
‘CrossFitting.’ participantd noted that this was not a normal class per week ... however, the CrossFit area is
CrossFit is a principal strength and workout routine. Their enthusiasm and personal results from open for everyone to use,” Kearse said.
conditioning program that began with former Participant Tina Ferguson said she had CrossFitting is a good indication for the future MWR has also planned to expand the
gymnast Greg Glassman, who posted daily worked out for years with a pieced-together CrossFit Program to Vilseck Rose Barracks
workout routines on the web. These routines are routine but the CrossFit Orientation gave her highest mountain and yell on a megaphone what Fitness Center and are working on converting
something new to think about. people could do to get in stupid-good shape ... the racquetball court into a CrossFit area.
Grafenwoehr military community. “CrossFit was different ... it was explosive CrossFit,” Mulligan said. “The cool thing is that For more information on CrossFit
In February, Installation Management and very intense, the workout was short but it’s for everybody.” orientations and classes offered, visit the USAG
Command Europe’s Morale, Welfare and delivered results that I haven’t felt with my The Grafenwoehr PFC is currently offering Grafenwoehr PFC.
Recreation Sports hosted a quarterly meeting normal workouts,” Ferguson said. “I would
where sports directors were introduced to have to say I thought I was in shape before this
CrossFit. This is where director of MWR orientation (but) this class made me feel every
Fitness and Sports for USAG Grafenwoehr, minute of the workout.”
Serge Kearse, attended orientation for the
CrossFit Program. “After going through the 10 steps: cardiovascular/respiratory endurance;
orientation, I was really interested in getting stamina; strength; flexibility; power; speed;
the (CrossFit) program started in Grafenwoehr,” coordination; agility; balance and accuracy. The
Kearse said. diversity of this program is what delivers results
Kearse, with funds from MWR, put in a work according to active CrossFitters.
request to upgrade an area of the basketball court in
the Grafenwoehr PFC with equipment and supplies also measures its success by offering information
required to start the CrossFit Program. MWR also
provided the funding for two registered volunteers At the end of orientation, Linville stressed
the importance of nutritional value. Without
The volunteers were trained with the eating properly, “you only get half the results,”
understanding “that they come back to this garrison Linville said. Part of eating healthy is to cut out
and provide free training to our Soldiers, family Trans and Saturated Fats but to make sure that
members and authorized civilians,” Kearse said. Polyunsaturated and Monounsaturated Fats are
still part of a regular diet. “You only want to fuel
Grafenwoehr community, Aug. 15, certified your muscle, you do not want to feed your fat”
CrossFit instructors Cpt. Jason Mulligan and Linville said.
Shannon Linville and introduced the equipment Not only does the intake of fats need to be
and exercises to eager participants. controlled but eating raw vegetable and fruits
While the USAG Grafenwoehr PFC was set instead of processed food are a good way to start.
up to accommodate 15 during orientation, the “If it’s in the center isles of the commissary then
number grew to 33 attendees. The unexpected you probably shouldn’t eat it” Mulligan said.
turnout had Mulligan and Linville excited for The number of devotees to CrossFit routines
the program. “I wish I would have learned this and nutritional guidelines are growing around
Photo by Mark Manzo
Photo by Sgt. Adam Heller
Marathon!
c
Courtesy photo
September 2, 2009 News Bavarian News 29
S ld pa ti ip ti , support Inc
ort coming
Soldier participation, suppo t Incoming
di
dier articipation,
Sold
commander
mmander
com
mak BOSS program a succ
kes OSS ogram success greets
makes BO pro cess g
P
continued from Page 1 three events for single Soldiers each
three events for single Soldiers each
time … throw the football around. My
time throw the football around. My month.
month.
vision was to enhance those kids’ lives.
vision was to enhance those kids’ lives.
I think we did,” Shomper said.
think we did,” Shomper said.
The USAG Grafenwoehr BOSS
The USAG Grafenwoehr BOSS
p r o g r a m will soon b e n e f i t from
program w i l l s o o n benefit f r o m a
partnership with the United Service
partnership with the United Service
com
mmunity
community
At the event, 45 BOSS members
At the event, 45 BOSS members
volunteered to participate and more
volunteered to participate and more Organization. The new USO facilities,
Organization. The new USO facilities, continued from Page 1
than 450 students. “It really showed the
than 450 students. “It really showed the which will be opening soon next to
which will be opening soon next to contemporary operating environment
contemporar ry
community service that we provide,”
community service that we provide,” the Service Credit Union on USAG
the Service Credit Union on USAG in Iraq, Afghanistan and other theaters
in Iraq, Afghanistan and other theaters
said Shomper noting that the high
said Shomper noting that the high Grafenwoehr’s Main Post, will also
Grafenwoehr ’s Main Post, will also ns
operation
of operations – is a testament to the
Soldier participation and volunteer rate
Soldier participation and volunteer rate house the new BOSS office and
h o u s e t h e n e w B O S S o ff i c e a n d
are what makes the program what it is.
are what makes the program what it is. headquarters and will share the facility
headquarters and will share the facility s
and civilians in this organization.”
organization.”
Shomper explained that the “Best
Shomper explained that the “Best as a Soldier center.
as Soldier center. Salazar also recognized t h e
S a l a z a r a l s o r e c o g n i z e d the
Installation” runner-up award, judged on
Installation” runner-up award, judged on After discussing the upcoming
After discussing the upcoming
excellence of quality of life, community
excellence of quality of life, community opportunities for single Soldiers,
opportunities for single Soldiers, and individuals outside JMTC that
and individuals outside JMTC that
service and recreation and leadership,
service and recreation and leadership, Shomper concluded, “We have the
Shomper concluded, “We have the o command’s
contribute to the command’s success.
was achieved “because we’re growing
was achieved “because we’re growing opportunity to make our program just
opportunity to make our program just “JMTC d does not work alone,” said
every day. We have an excellent chain
every day. We have an excellent chain explode. That’s my plan.”
explode. That’s my plan.” Wi
Salazar. “Without
Salazar. “Without the support of the
of command We have Soldiers who
of command … We have Soldiers who To get involved in the Grafenwoehr
To get involved in the Grafenwoehr U . S . Army Garrison Grafenwoehr
U.S. A r m y G a r r i s o n G r a f e n w o e h r
want to participate … Not a lot of them
want to participate Not lot of them BOSS program, or for more, contact
ogram,
pro and the local community, JMTC could
and the local community, JMTC could
can say that they walked away with 45
can say that they walked away with 45 Shomper at DSN 475-8822, CIV 0173-
Shomper at DSN 475-8822, CIV 0173- not provide the quality training that
not provide the quality training that
volunteers for any type of community
volunteers for any type of community 439-6294. we do.”
service whatsoever.”
service whatsoever.” Brig. Gen. Salazar follows
Brig. Gen. Salazar follows
Above: Command Sgt. M a j .
A b o v e : C o m m a n d S g t . Maj.
Attending the conference also gave
Attending the conference also gave Brig. Gen. D a v i d R . H o g g as the
B r i g . G e n . David R. Hogg a s t h e
William B e r r i o s , command
W i l l i a m Berrios, c o m m a n d commanding general of JMTC. Hogg,
commanding general of JMTC. Hogg,
Shomper new ideas and motivation for
Shomper new ideas and motivation for
the future of program.
the future of program. sergeant major of U.S. Army
sergeant major of U.S. Army curre ently
who is currently serving as the deputy
“As far as winning (at) the conference,
“As far as winning (at) the conference, Garrison Grafenwoehr, sits in
Garrison Grafenwoehr, sits in chief of staff for operations for the
chief of staff for operations for the
all it does is fuel my ambition next
all it does is fuel my ambition next the drivers seat of
the drivers seat of a 250,000250,000 International Security Assistance
International Security Assistance
E u r o F o r d G T a t t h e BOSS
Euro Ford GT at the B O S S Afgghanistan,
Force in Afghanistan, departed JMTC
Shomper said with a laugh. “That may
Shomper said with laugh. “That may Car show Aug. 22 at the USAG in June.
be stretching it a little bit, but that’s my
be stretching it little bit, but that’s my l
“General Salazar will bring fresh
Grafenwoehr Post Exchange. h
blood, fresh ideas and a new energy energy
goal. It just puts little more pressure
goal. It just puts a little more pressure
on me and on my fellow Soldiers to
on me and on my fellow Soldiers to Left: Garrison leadership Col.
Left: Garrison leadership Col. into making the JMTC better than it is
make sure we do everything we can to
make sure we do everything we can to today,” said Hogg as he bid farewell
today,”y,
make our BOSS program the best BOSS
make our BOSS program the best BOSS Chris Sorenson ( l e f t ) and
C h r i s S o r e n s o n (left) a n d comm mand
to the command and the community
program out there.”
program out there.” C o m m a n d Sgt. M a j . Willam
Command S g t . Maj. W i l l a m earlier this summer. “He is great guy
earlier this summer. “He is a great guy
Future goals of the program include
Future goals of the program include Berrios (right) pose for photo
Berrios (right) pose for a photo t
and the right one for the job.”
community service organized with local
community service organized with local with USAG Grafenwoehr BOSS
with USAG Grafenwoehr BOSS “It is truly a n h o n o r f o r m e t o
“ I t i s t r u l y an honor for me to
German mayors. According to Shomper,
German mayors. According to Shomper, President Robert Shomper at the
President Robert Shomper at the
the goal is to keep the relationship with
the goal is to keep the relationship with BOSS car show Aug. 22.
BOSS car show Aug. 22. to be part of such a great community,
p g community,” y,”
surrounding communities strong.
surrounding communities strong. s a i d Salazar. “I look forward t o
said S a l a z a r. “ I l o o k f o r w a r d to
Shomper also hopes to host at least
Shomper also hopes to host at least Photos by Sgt. Adam Heller witth
working with all of you.”
s those
Clubs thank those who build German-American bond
continued from Page 1
P
o G American
German-A n single Soldiers with its “2SCR Welcome Home
single Soldiers with its “2SCR Welcome Home
out to more than 800,000 people.
out to more than 800,000 people. Program.”
Program.” T KONTA TAKT
The KONTAKT
During the awards event, Bagby presented 14
During the awards event, Bagby presented 14 The Heidelberg club received praise for its
The Heidelberg club received praise for its C
Club is a German-
Ele
support awards. Eleven non-members received
even r
cultural awareness programs and activities.
cultural awareness programs and activities.
Several club supporters were also recognized
Several club supporters were also recognized A
American friendship
r
recognition for their service as well.
The Fulda club received the group high
The Fulda club received the group high for their individual achievements
for their individual achievements. organization
o
organ zat on
ach evemen award n category for community
achievement award in ca egory for commun y Jurgen U r ch of V seck was honored for
Jurgen Ullrich of Vilseck was honored for s
sponsored by the
suppor a commun y w hou m ary
support at a community without a military organ z ng spec a even s and severa barbecues
organizing special events and several barbecues U S Army
U.S. Army. Members
presence The club was a so praised for s
presence. The c ub was also pra sed for its and pu ng n 650 vo un eer hours as year
and putting in 650 volunteer hours last year. nc ude So d ers
include Soldiers,
fundra s ng marke ng pub c relations and
fundraising, marketing, public re a ons and Rena e Schwarzenberger of Hohenfe s was
Renate Schwarzenberger of Hohenfels was f
fam es c v ans
families, civilians and
educa on effor s
education efforts. sa u ed for making frequen visits o spouses of
saluted for mak ng frequent v s s to spouses of
dep oyed So d ers n he Vilseck, Grafenwoehr
deployed Soldiers in the V seck Grafenwoehr a c t zens
and German citizens
The Fu da group was also recognized for
The Fulda group was a so recogn zed for
s “push and pu ” program ha eaches young
its “push and pull” program that teaches young and Hohenfels communities and opening her
and Hohenfe s commun es and open ng her from surround ng
f surrounding
people living on former U S installations in
peop e v ng on former U.S. ns a a ons n home to Army family members
home o Army fam y members.
am commun t es
c
communities.
their c y the history of those kasernes and the
he r city he h s ory of hose kasernes and he Lo har Gogo ka was honored for h s efforts
Lothar Gogolka was honored for his effor s C
Commun ty
Community members
Army’s history n Fulda and Germany.
Army’s h s ory in Fu da and Germany n mak ng he Grafenwoehr c ub one of he
in making the Grafenwoehr club one of the a nv ted
are invited to get
T h e V s e c k club r e c e v e d the high
The Vilseck c u b received h e h g h s ronges n Germany bu d ng re a onsh ps
strongest in Germany, building relationships nvo ved n the r oca
involved in their local
achievement a w a r d in the category f o r
a c h e v e m e n award n h e c a e g o r y for among he m ary and neighboring communities
among the military and ne ghbor ng commun es
c o m m u n y support n c o m m u n y w h
community s u p p o r in a community with a and ncreas ng membersh p o more han 200.
and increasing membership to more than 200 Club’s activities.
C ub s act v t es
military presence I was recogn zed for its
m ary presence. It was recognized for s For more nforma on on KONTAKT C ubs
For more information on KONTAKT Clubs C
Courtesy graph c
Cour esy graphic
support of the 2nd Stryker Cava ry Reg men ’s
suppor of he 2nd S ryker Cavalry Regiment’s Germany v s www b k de kne
across Germany, visit www.biknet.de.
e employment ‘key t quality of life’ for military families
ment
Spouse employm to r military families
P
continued from Page 1 our military spouses continue he r separated or retired, as well as widows
our m ary spouses con nue their separa ed or re red as we as w dows individual p o s o n s according to
n d v d u a positions, a c c o r d n g o opportunity s rea y critical
por
a career opp un y is really cr ca
‘
service as par of an effor to recruit
serv ce part n effort o recru
ff en h ng or w dowers serv cemember
emp oyme it wou d be a good thing o widowers of servicemembers who
employment, would rs OPM documen s
documents. for their fam y’s we being,” sa d
for he r family’s well be ng ” said
and retain skilled and exper enced
and re a n sk ed and experienced for us o facilitate
for us to fac a e d ed on ac ve du y
died on active duty Barbara Thompson, d rec or of he
Barbara Thompson director of the
members of the arm forces and to
med
he armed o h e r entry n o
their e n r y into have no
and who have not be eve that our spous can compe e
believe ha ses
spouses compete
recognize and honor the serv ce of
recogn ze and honor he service of the federal t’s y to remarried also are
It’s really hard to remarr ed a so are on their own merits,” O sa d no ng
he r mer s ” Ott said, noting Children d Yo h
Ch dren and Youth. ou
members n ured disabled, or killed n
members injured, d sab ed or k ed in governmen ” she
government,” she e gbe
eligible. h a h e n e w hiring rules provide
that the new h r n g r u e s p r o v d e an
More han 77 percent of m ary
More than 77 percen of military
connec on w h he r serv ce ”
connection with their service.” sa d
said. keep a job if you
keep job you The new h r ng
The new hiring m ary spouses w h “a s ream ned
military with streamlined, spouses have nd ca ed n surveys
s pous es have indicated in surveys
“Military
“M ary spouse emp oymen is a
e employment s Eligible au hor y does no
authority does not fac a ed means of obtaining federal
facilitated b
ob a n ng federa ha hey are n eres ed n es ab sh ng
that they are interested in establishing
key to the quality of life of our military
key o he qua y of fe of our m ary nd v dua s O
individuals, Ott have to move o
have to move from cons u e a h r ng constitute hiring emp oymen ”
employment.” careers, T h o m p s o n s a d O h e r
c a r e e r s Thompson said. Other
families,” Kathleen Ott, director of
fam es ” Ka h een O d rec or of said, n c u d n g
s a d including preference for
preference for Use of he new hiring au hor y
Use of the new h r ng authority data, she a d d e d n d c a e s h a
d a a s h e added, indicates that
talent acqu s on deve opmen and
a en acquisition, development and spouses of station to station
station to station ... e g b e m a r y eligiblemilitary “is comp e e y at he discretion of
“ s completely a the d scre on of m ary spouses are overa more
military spouses are, overall, more
m a n a g e m e n n h e Office of h e
management in the O ff c e o f the active-duty s p o u s e s , hiring agencies,” accord ng o OPM
h r ng agenc es ” according to OPM highly educated han he r civilian
h gh y educa ed than their c v an
Depu y Undersecretary of Defense for
Deputy Undersecre ary of Defense for serv cemembers
servicemembers We thought,
We thought in order a c c o r d i n g t o
t, documen s and “it is one of many
documents, and “ s one of many coun erpar s
counterparts.
C v an Personne Po cy sa d Aug
n
Civilian Personnel Policy, said Aug. who have been
who have been to help our miltary OuPt h o .r i t y Ti h i a
to r miltary a M “ s s h r ng tools agencies may use to recruit
hiring oo s agenc es may use o recru “I think it’s a w n-w n situation that
“I h nk ’s win-win s ua on ha
13 during an interview with Pentagon
dur ng n erv e w h Pen agon
ew called on to needed individuals.”
nd v dua s ” he federa g governmen s access ng
the federal government is accessing a
Channe and Amer can Forces Press
Channel and American Forces Press
Serv ce repor ers
Service reporters.
n re oca e Th s
relocate. This
nc udes spouses
includes spouses
spouses c continue n o nic orm pie n vg
noncompetitive
h
e comp e e hree
p
Spouses who complete three years
of con nuous satisfactory serv ce w
of continuous sa sfac ory service will
pool of spouses who have he same
poo of spouses who have the same
eve s com men mm car ng
levels of commitment and caring and
The availability of obs for military
v
The ava ab y of jobs for m ary Guardsm men
of Guardsmen or
reserv s s who’ve
reservists who’ve
their employment, m e c h a nestablish
employment, does not ess m sh
mechanism; it
no ab
beconver ed from a career-cond ona
beconverted from career-conditional
appo n men to career appointment,
appointment o career appo n men
service o h e nation,” Thompson
s e r v c e to the n a o n ” T h o m p s o n
sa d
said.
spouses contributes o he sustainment
spouses con r bu es to the sus a nmen
been ca ed up for
been called up for would e
it would be a good o r constitute a or c o n s u e O sa d
Ott said. The depar men ’s Military Spouse
r
The department’s M ary Spouse
of he all-volunteer force, Ott said,
of the a -vo un eer force O sa d
citing a r e c e n s u r v e y in w h c h
c n g recent survey n which
emp oyed military spouses reported
employed m ary spouses repor ed
ha he r work ncome constitutes
that their work income cons u es
a b o u 48 percent of o a family
about 4 8 p e r c e n o f total f a m y
income.
ncome
m o r e than 1 8 0
more h a n 180
days of ac ve
days of active
service other han
serv ce o her than
ra n ng Eligible
spouses mus be
spouses must be
to faacilitate
nt
‘
‘
‘
training. E g b e thier entry into federal does it crea e an
h r ng prefe
hiring preference
thing to facilitate f o r e l i g i b l e
spouses, nor
entry in o federal does create an
erence
entitlement o
e n e m e n to a
that the new m ary-spouse h r ng
ha he new military-spouse hiring
au hor y would adve e y affect he
authority wou d adversely affec the
ers ff
h r ng of military ve erans into the
hiring of m ary veterans n o he
federal governmen O said.
federa government, Ott sa d
Career Advancemen Accoun
Career Advancement Account,
a s o k n o w n a s M y C A A provides
also known as MyCAA, p r o v d e s
spouses of ac ve-du y m ary and
spouses of active-duty military and
“ B u it’s r e a y hard to keep
“But, ’s really h a r d o k e e p mov ng to ano her
moving o another governm
government.ment. federa job for an
federal ob activated Guard and reserve members
ac va ed Guard and reserve members
a job if y o u h a v e to m o v e f r o m
o b f you have o move from duty station e g b e spouse ”
eligible spouse,” federal o b o p p o r u n e s h r o u g h
f e d e r a job opportunities through wor dw de she sa d
worldwide, she said.
s a on o station,” Ott said. Federal
station to s a on ” O sa d Federa accompanied Kathleen Ott
Kath een n according to eb
OPM’s USAJobs Web s e O sa d
OPM’s Web site, Ott said. President George W. Bush ssued an
Pres den George W Bush issued an
employment, she sa d offers m ary
emp oymen she said, offers military b y D ec o of Talent Acquisition, Development
t h e i r Director o Ta en Acqu s on Deve opmen r e g u l a t o r y The new hiring authority “sends
The new h r ng au hor y “sends execu ve order es ab sh ng gu de nes
executive order establishing guidelines
spouses a p o r a b e career w h
spouses portable c a r e e r with serv cemember
servicemember and Management
and Managemen documen s listed
documents s ed very m p o r a n m e s s a g e o o u r
a v e r y important message to our ng
he h r n au hor y n Sep ember
for the hiring authority in September
or w fe
husband or wife. n he Federal Reg s er
in the Federa Register. 2008, bu m emen a on he
mp
2008 but implementation of the order
presence.
presence Spouses of former serv cemembers
Spouses of former servicemembers recogn zed by the federa government,
recognized by he federal governmen wasde ayed wh e it was rev ewed by
wasdelayed while reviewed
“ We thought, in o r d e r to h e p
“We h o u g h n order o help s ed as 100-percent disabled and ob-qua f ca on criteria s ed for
listed as 100-percen d sab ed and job-qualification cr er a listed for and ha hey recogn ze ha having
and that they recognize that hav ng he adm n s ra on
a
the Obama administration.
