Remembering Our Own

Five Soldiers from Bravo Company 7-158th Aviation Regiment were killed August 6th in Afghanistan when their Chinook was shot down. A memorial service was held Sunday at the unit in Olathe, Kansas.

The backdrop to the memorial for the 5 Soldiers from B Co, 7-158th Aviation Regiment couldn’t have been more fitting. Behind the five sets of boots, M-16s,  flight helmets and ID tags was a looming UH-47 Chinook helicopter. The one piece of equipment all 5 Soldiers loved. The one piece of equipment that took their lives.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 David Carter, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bryan Nichols, Staff Sgt. Patrick Hamburger, Specialist Alex Bennett and Specialist Spencer Duncan were killed August 6 when their Chinook, carrying 25 Navy SEALS, crashed in Wardak province, Afghanistan.

The memorial service, held Sunday at the unit hangar in Olathe, Kansas, gave family members, friends and comrades a chance to remember and honor those lives lost. Signs bearing the unit motto “With It or On It” and red, white and blue ribbons adorned the fencing outside the hangar doors, showing support for the Unit and family members.

 These were the first deaths Bravo Company has been forced to endure since their deployments to Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. Fellow Soldiers stood before a gathering of over 400 people, speaking of each individual Soldier. Stories of friendship and camaraderie were relayed, giving a true sense of just how close the unit is with one another.  

Members of the Kansas Patriot Guard honored the fallen troops with American flags lined up outside the hangar door during the memorial service held Sunday.

Although closed to the general public, members of the Kansas Patriot Guard lined up just outside the hangar doors, bearing American flags and saluting the fallen. Others in attendance included members of the VFW and American Legion, local fire department and law enforcement personnel and Kansas governor Sam Brownback. 

I only knew one of the five Soldiers - CW2 Nichols. He was the Unit Administrator for Bravo Company when I first arrived in Kansas last September. The first time I visited the hangar, Chief Nichols took me around for a tour of the offices and introduced me to other office personnel. Having been a UA at one point myself, I asked Chief how he liked the job. He smiled briefly and said he didn’t. He said he wanted nothing more than to fly all the time and was planning to let go of his civilian job and return to flying full-time for the Army. His eyes lit up and his smile grew into a grin as he talked about flying.  I didn’t know Chief Nichols very long and I certainly didn’t know him well but what I know for sure is that flying was what he loved to do. He died honorably and courageously, fighting for our freedoms and proudly serving his country. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bryan Nichols will always be remembered for the service, commitment and sacrifice he gave his country. He died doing the one thing he loved to do most. And that was to fly.

- by Sgt. First Class Kelli M. Harr

An Interview with Sfc. Timmons

When did you join the military and why?

I joined the Active Army in August of 1996 as a UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter Crew-Chief. I grew up in a small farm community in Geneseo Illinois and I wanted to get out to see the world.  I knew that the technical and life skills I would learn in the Army would translate towards a civilian career and as well as help me prepare for and pay for college.  Like many, I did it partly to get away, partly for the adventure, and mostly to serve my country and gain money for college.

What was your MOS before being a Career Counselor?  Why did you stop performing this/these MOS and choose the path of a career counselor?

Prior to becoming a Career Counselor I was a Drill Sergeant with the 100th Div.  I decided to become a Career Counselor as the next natural choice to shape my career.  After training, mentoring, and leading young Soldiers as they entered the Army I was ready to take it to another level and help out all Soldiers in every aspect of their lives, not just the Army. I felt like I had a diverse enough career and had a lot of experience and advice to impart on Soldier.  I truly did feel like this was the perfect job for me.

What made you decide to become a Career Counselor?

I feel like it is the #1 position in which you can make a dramatic impact on Soldiers lives every day in very profound ways.

How long have you been a career counselor?

I have been working in the field since the summer of 2005. And had the opportunity to serve my fellow deployed Soldiers working in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait as a Career Counselor in Theater (2008-09).

What do you enjoy the most as a career counselor?

I like finding the ‘Right’ Answers for Soldiers.  Doing the hard work to really help someone out is the truly gratifying experience in this field that we are often reminded about through feedback from our Soldiers; often years down the road.

How did you get to where you are right now – concerning being named the Secretary of the Army, Army Reserve Career Counselor of the Year – What kind of competition did you participate in to get to the Secretary of the Army level competition?

Honestly, I have had the privilege to work for and with great people who truly care about Soldiers.  Without the support group that we have in regards to working together and sharing information I would not be the same person I am today and certainly not the winner of the competition.  The preparation for this level did take a number of years (in my case).  I competed at the Battalion level in 2006 and lost, I went back in 2007 and won for the Battalion and competed in this very competition and lost.  So after my deployment I came back and was lucky enough to win again at the Battalion levelcome out on top among a stellar group of performers.

Obviously you did great during the competition here at Atlanta, but during the actual competition how did you think you were doing?  Did you have any worries or concerns throughout the competition?  If so, what were they and how did you deal with those concerns?

During the competition I think everyone second guessed themselves especially due to the secretiveness of it.  You never really knew how you were ranking against the other competitors and you were left guessing at how well you may stack up.  I personally felt that there were a few portions that I did poorly on and had to focus on forgetting what we had already done and concentrating on what was coming up.  My number 1 asset during the events was prayer.  It helped me center myself and perhaps gain a spiritual lift from it.

Looking back at where you are now and where you were when you were just beginning your time with the Army, would you ever expect to have taken the path you have?

I can’t say that I would have planned it this way.  Initially I, like many Soldiers, really wanted to do my time in the Army and get out and go to school.  But an interesting thing happens in the Army and it happens to everyone: It becomes a part of you.  The Army became a huge part of my life and I know that it needed me and I certainly needed it.  I’m extremely glad that I have been blessed with amazing leaders and mentors in my life and my career that always went above and beyond to make sure I was taken care of.  I want to be that person to my Soldiers.

How has this competition made you a better Soldier and career counselor?

There is no doubt that any competition will help make a better Soldier.  I know that had we all not had this competition coming up we wouldn’t have spent nearly as many hours in the books, regulations, and the field preparing.  These types of events always push a Soldier harder to learn more and become a better Soldier than you currently are. I feel like my knowledge base is definitely increased and my all around Soldiering skills are that much better because of the competition.

Do you think winning this competition will help you be a better career counselor?  Why or why not?

Well I know that it certainly won’t hurt, of course I think it will.  Inherently people want to live up to their title and for me a little pride will play into it I’m sure.  Because I was named the 2010 AR Career Counselor of the year I want to do my utmost to provide that kind of counseling and leadership to the Soldiers I work around.  To do less would forsake my responsibilities and cheapen all those that competed so vigorously with me.

Anything else you would like to add or you think would be of interest?

I would like to take the opportunity to thank my beautiful new wife who has been so very supportive and giving of her time and efforts to help me prepare.  We were married three weeks prior to the competition and she never once let me forget to study or work out. Even during our two week honeymoon (ending one week before the competition began) she helped me allot time to study and exercise during the day between all of our activities.

Army Reserve Career Counselor of the Year Competition:Day 1

 

      The Secretary of the Army, Army Reserve Career Counselor of the Year competition is underway. The 13 competitors, along with their mentors, reported at 0900 hrs to begin interviews and prepare for registration. Little did they know, they were in for quite a busy day. The Soldier’s first day of competition included:

• Registration

• Briefings

• Height and Weight

• Group Photos

• Open Ranks Inspections

 The competitors and mentors were also given other tasks that challenged them in a variety of ways. Upon the completion of Day 1, one can only question what the competition has in store..

High Altitude Reenlistment

I do solemnly swore...

One remembers many moments throughout their military career such as their Recruiter, their Drill Sergeant, or their Promotion ceremonies. But for Drill Sergeant Caterina Shipman her reenlistment will be something she will never forget.

Half way down a 45 feet repelling tower, with an American flag in the background, Drill Sergeant Shipman stated her name and solemnly swore,” …I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies…”

Col. John Ligon congratulates Drill Sgt Caterina Shipman after her reenlistment

Despite the high winds, which made the repelling with a flag a little trickier for Sergeant Major Guhl, Colonel Ligon, Commander, ARCD, Sergeant Major Guhl, Sergeant Major, 13th Battalion, ARCD and Drill Sergeant Shipment repelled down the tower to conduct the reenlistment.

“This was a dream true! I enjoy military life and have had the experience of my life as well as meeting some extraordinary people,” said Drill Sergeant Shipman.

Drill Sergeant Shipman and her fellow Drill Sergeants from the 95th Division Drill Sergeant Unit from Oklahoma assisted the 13th Battalion, Army Reserve Careers Division (ARCD) with their yearly Warrior Task Training at Kirkland Air Force Base in New Mexico. One of the events the battalion set up was the repel tower, when the idea for the reenlistment came.

A Dream Come True

Drill Sergeant Shipman who has been in the Army Reserve since 2005 has always dreamed of being a Career Soldier. She was the alternate to represent the state of Oklahoma for the National Capitol Reenlistment Ceremony this past April, so it was fortunate that she was able to reenlist from the tower instead.

She looks forward to continuing her military career and hopes to deploy for a tour in Afghanistan in November. Drill Sergeant Shipman also plans to re-class to Psychological Operations and retire from the Army Reserve.
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What unusual way or place would you like to reenlist? Leave a comment and let us know.

SSG Bach N. Dang – Not only am I an American, I’m a Guardian of Freedom.

I'm located on the top row, 3rd from the right or 7th person from the left.

“I always knew I wanted to be in the Army Reserve; I joined for money for college. I knew I wanted to stay when I became an NCO, a leader of Soldiers and so I can train other Soldiers to become future leaders. I also stay due because of my loyalty and pride in serving this county.

My two must memorable events are attending airborne school and reenlisting on the steps of the National Capital Building.

American Soldier, Staff Sgt. Dang

I encourage others who continue to serve to have pride in what they do; the Army Reserve is a great place to gain experience. Serving has affected my life; I have received great training, great friendships and great employment opportunity. Being a Soldier has made me a more confidence individual and opened up doors to different opportunity. Because I am a Soldier, I watch what I do and say, as to reflect my service in the Army Reserve. Not only am I an American, I’m a guardian of freedom.”

SSG Bach N. Dang
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Staff Sgt. Dang was born in Nha Trang, Vietnam, states he is most proud of his family. He is a Staff Sgt. with the 377th Theater Sustainment Command, an 89B, Ammunition Specialist, currently serving as a Staff Operations and Training Specialist.
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Just wondering, why do you choose to stay in the Army Reserve or support your family for choosing to stay? Leave a comment and let us know!

Call to Service, Overwhelming

Sgt. 1st Class Zuchelli re-enlisted in the Army Reserve for the third and final time.

Excerpts from an article by Michelle Tan|Army Times |April 17, 2006

“With the U.S. Capitol as his backdrop, Sgt. 1st Class Darryl Zuchelli re-enlisted in the Army Reserve for the third and final time.”

For Zuchelli, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the call to serve was so overwhelming that he had to wipe tears from his eyes when he spoke to Army Times.

“Freedom isn’t free,” he said. “These are tears of joy, and tears for our fallen soldiers, the ones that aren’t coming home.”

Sgt. 1st Class Darryl Zuchelli and Soldiers who reenlisted during the 1st NCRC pose for a picutre in front of the White House.

Represent the Army Reserve at the 2010 National Capitol Reenlistment Conference (NCRC)

US Capitol Building

       

If you are an Army Reserve Soldier within your first 8 years of military service, who has decided to continue serving and are within your 12-month window for reenlistment, (or will be by 23 April 2010), contact your unit’s assigned Army Reserve Career Counselor to determine your eligibility prior to 25 January 2010.

               Selected Soldiers will participate in the 2010 National Capitol Reenlistment Conference 20-24 April 2010 in Washington, DC. Moreover, selected Soldiers will reenlist during the 5th Annual National Capitol Reenlistment Ceremony on 23 APR 2010 at the US Capitol Building Visitors Center.  Participants will also be treated to activities around the National Capitol Region, to include the US Capitol Building, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Pentagon, and have the opportunity to talk about their Army Reserve experience — all at no cost to the Soldier, to include a family member accompanying their Soldier.

100 Army Reserve Soldiers reenlist doing the 2008 NCRC as part of the Army Reserve celebrated being 100th Years Strong

Showcasing 54 first-term Soldiers, this reenlistment ceremony and the week’s events will reiterate the emphasis on retaining valuable Army Reserve Soldiers and their families. It is a public event with full media coverage, numerous dignitaries, and special guests, which also serves as both a personal and professional development experience, as well as a reward for the Army Reserve Soldiers who choose to continue their service to our nation. 

                Interested?

                Click here to contact your regional Army Reserve Career Counselor or send an email with your city and state to StayAR@StayArmyReserve.com NOW!

To see pictures of past NCRC Ceremonies click on the “Event Photo” link in the upper right hand corner of this page.

The Mission Continues…

During a working group conference discussing methods of bettering the care for our deployed Army Reserve Soldiers, members of the Army Reserve Careers Division (ARCD) and the Army Reserve Career Counselor (ARCC) Retention Team, serving in Southwest Asian Theater of Operations under the Army Central Command, took time out to pose for this picture in Kuwait.

The first rotation of Active Guard/Reserve ARCCs (then know as Retention and Transition NCOs) arrived in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait in November 2003, replacing what was the first group of TPU Retention NCOs based there. Their mission was, and continues to be, to conduct reenlistments and counsel Soldiers about reenlistment options, incentives, and opportunities to transition into other career-enhancing Army Reserve programs.

ARCD leadership posses with Army Reserve Career Counselors on the group in Kuwait

Left to right are: Sgt. 1st Class Verna Felder, Sgt. 1st Class James Lord, Master Sgt. Scott Brannam, Sgt. 1st Class Douglas Tritt, Sgt. 1st Class Mark Lopaz, Sgt. 1st Class Lonnie Lape, Sgt. 1st Class Rickie Witt, Sgt. 1st Class Katherine Klaffka, Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Villa, Command Sgt. Maj., ARCD, Col. Robert Ligon, Commander, ARCD, Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Manzanares, Sgt. 1st Class William Warren, Ltc. Timothy Mariner, Deputy, Staff Operations, ARCD, Sgt. 1st Class Kelly Bornhoeft, Sgt. 1st Class Donald Gray, Sgt. 1st Class Ronald Bronaugh, Sgt. 1st Class Charles Parker and Sgt. 1st Class Delgrita Hollingsworth.

Army Ten Miler is Family Event

Sgt. 1st Class Ash is congratulated by her two sons and nephew after completing her 5th Army Ten Miler.

Running the Army Ten Miler is nothing new for Sergeant First Class Anna Ash, an Army Reserve Career Counselor in High Point, NC. The 2009 event was the 5th race she participated in and 4th consecutive. This year’s race, held annually in Washington D.C., had 21524 participants.

 “I run the ATM for many reasons but mainly it’s for me; to know that I can run ten miles and enjoy it,” she said. “Never thought I’d say that but I love the extra kick of energy when I see the Pentagon and the sense of accomplishment when I cross the finish line.”

She finished the run in 2:28 and was pleased with her performance. Next year, Sgt. First Class Ash hopes to run with a team rather than as an individual. This year, her sons, David and Nathan and nephew, Sam, participated in the Kids Run, making it a family event. The Kids Run is a non-competitive race of 200 meter for children in 4th through 8th grade and a 100 meter race for K-3rd grade.

For more information about the Army Ten Miler, visit their official website: http://www.armytenmiler.com

Crossing the Finish Line….The 25th Annual Army-Ten Miler

Maj. Richard Corner and Sgt.1st Class Robert Brooks stretch toward the finish line.

The Annual Army 10-Miler Race, held on October 4, 2009 in Washington DC, celebrated its 25th Anniversary with runners from around the world. The ten-mile road race is one of the largest in the world and considered the Army’s premier running event. The course that runs through the National Capital starts and finishes at the Pentagon.

Sgt. 1st Class Baker, No, I ain't hurting!

With 30,000 registered runners member of the Army Reserve Careers Division and its field force participated in this year’s race. Region 1’s team pictured below placed 7th overall in the Army Reserve Men’s category.

Leave your post to congratulate theVipers or if you have ever participated in the race take a moment to share your pictures and experience here with others that are staying Army Strong by Staying Army Reserve.

Submit your story and photographs with captions to StayAR@StayArmyReserve.com

VIPERS, Staff Sgt. Shank, Master Sgt. Goguen, Maj. Corner, Sgt.1 Class McGreal, Sgt.1st Class Brooks and Master Sgt. Baker