intimidating you’ll look

while shivering). It has

also been known to

help filter out the impu-

rities in the air (not

medically documented,

but common sense

doesn’t need documen-

tation).…the awesome-

ness of a mustache may

be a mystery to medical

science….but Chuck

Norris can’t just be

lucky…..Hell Yeah!

— LTC Jack Ritter

Outlaws! Mission focus

is the way ahead. As

we approach the winter

months here Afghani-

stan, everyone needs to

maintain the profes-

sional, mission focused

attitude that has been

evidenced over the past

few months. The op-

erational tempo may

slow in other regions of

Afghanistan, but if his-

tory is any predictor of

the future, our region

will stay active through-

out. It is important to

continue to conduct pre

-combat checks and in-

spections, focus on risk

reduction, and pay at-

tention to the small

stuff. Danger is a 24

hour a day, 7 days a

week business here and

we can’t afford to take

a day off, slack in our

efforts, or neglect the

small stuff. Stay fo-

cused during the com-

ing months, and make

an extra effort to en-

sure your battle buddy

is prepared as well.

Make no assumptions

that the activity will de-

crease. Stay alert, stay

mission focused and

we’ll get to the other

side of this together.

Lastly, it will get colder,

so be prepared. One

way to help prepare is

to grow a mustache. A

“within Army Regula-

tions” mustache may

help protect against the

dropping temperatures

(of course it may not,

but just think of how

Outlaw 6 Sends:

B.A.M. Contest 3

Fallen Hero 5K 7

Save Second Base 13

693rd Command

Highlight

16

Baby Blurb 19

Medical Corner 20

Photo Gallery 21

Inside this issue:

Engineer Round-Up

Volume 1: Issue 9 November 01, 2012

Sappers clear the way!

Task Force Outlaw

0600 Afghanistan, the sun is just starting to enter the hori-zon, communications checks have been made and move-ment is set. Second Platoon (Outlaw 7-2 as it’s known within Task Force Outlaw), 1433rd Engineer Company, starts to roll down Highway 1. First there is silence - then the radio crackles…..”Good morn-ing Hogslayer fans, this morn-ing’s headlines are brought to you by SPC John Matt, SPC Christopher Thomas, SPC Wil-liam Barnett.” Each morning the Platoon Sergeant, SFC John Palacios, allows for a temporary escape from radio protocol as these three Soldiers put out a comical recap of the previous day’s news headlines. Mem-bers of Outlaw 7-2, and some-times others, when SFC Palacios forgets to switch the comms back to “platoon” fre-quency, are treated to about 5 to 7 minutes of quick witted takes on events that happen thousands of miles away. “Some days they [SPC Matt, SPC Thomas and SPC Barnett] are better than others, but the Platoon always looks forward to Hogslayer radio” says SFC Palacios, and I can see why. As I rode with Outlaw 7-2 last week, the “news update pro-vided a brief moment of humor

in a situation where the seri-ousness drips from the win-dows; and the voices coming across the radio tickled memo-ries of radio station announcers back home as they read off their top 10 list of the day:

TOP TEN REASONS OUTLAW 7-2 (HOGSLAYERS)

RATE A “HELL YEAH”

10. Have more guards and stand more shifts than any maximum security prison.

9. We have the best PL and PSG in the company. Why you ask, their knee pads don’t have a scratch on them.

8. Only RCP in the company that conducts self recovery without the use of QRF.

7. Is considered to be highly explosive and dual purpose. Sure we conduct route clear-ance from time to time; how-ever, our specialty appears to be infantry operations as we conduct them better than 11B’s do.

6. The polls are in and more Soldiers today tune into the Hogslayer Network than prefer to watch AFN News.

5. By far the biggest promoter of Justin Bieber in all of Af-ghanistan.

4. Hands down the best hair in the Company.

3. Every week we volunteer one of our days off to run extra missions.

2. We are all insomniacs, so it doesn’t matter how many times or what the TOC’s excuse is for changing the SP time, we are up and ready to go. And the #1 reason, Outlaw 7-2 rates a Hell Yeah! Is...

1. Statistically, whether they want it or not, every V.I.P. re-turns from a Hogslayer mission with their C.A.B.!

— LTC Jack Ritter

Page 2

“Good morning Afghanistan...”

Engineer Round-Up

Power Point Ranger: 3rd Infantry Regiment, Old Guard

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 3

intentions. When we do the wrong thing, we let ourselves off the hook be-cause we be-lieve our mo-tives were good. And the prob-lem is, we are

We are harder on others than we are on our-selves. We judge others accord-ing to their ac-tions, while we tend to judge ourselves ac-cording to our

usually willing to do that over and over before requiring our-selves to change! ~Anonymous~

Leadership Corner

Guess the B.A.M.!

See if you can properly Identify the

owner of this Task Force Outlaw

Engineer’s B.A.M.!!!

B.A.M. CONTEST!!!

Howdy Outlaws!

We will be having a

B.A.M. CONTEST

We will SHAVE on

“ Turkey Day”

and

The B.A.M.s

w ill be Judged on

New Years Day!

More info on

NOVEMBER 15TH

OUTLAWS! HELL YEAH!

On October 13th, 2012, the Soldiers of the 584th

Mobility Augmentation Company gathered to

attend an award and promotion ceremony at the

motor pool at FOB Walton. 1SG Evans called the

company to attention and they roared with their

call of “WOOLY BULLIES.” On this beautiful

Afghanistan day the company was able to award

Soldiers with Driver and Mechanic Badges, Com-

bat Action Badges, and gained rank and new re-

sponsibilities with promotions.

MAJ DeShazo, our guest VIP, attended and

shared his wisdom and inspirational words with

the company; instilling a sense of pride and sup-

port from the battalion.

Below is a listing of the citations and the

awardees:

The Driver and Mechanic Badge with “Wheeled

Vehicle” or “Mechanic” Bar is awarded to Army

personnel who have received driver or mechanic

Military Occupational Specialty training, and

who have subsequently demonstrated a high de-

gree of skill in the operation and maintenance of

military motor vehicles. The following 584th Mo-

bility Augmentation Soldiers received this award:

PFC Charles Chambers, SSG Brian Chong, SGT

Lee Curry, PFC David Fann, SPC Jacob Fox,

SPC Andrew Gomez, PFC Joe Gygli, SFC Timo-

thy Knight, SPC Dustin McCluskey, SSG David

Melendez, SPC Jefry Mills, SGT Miguel Navedo,

SGT John Neary, PFC Tyler Patrick, SFC Raul

Saucedo, PFC Jeremy Scholes, SSG Mathew

Smith, PFC Mitchell Smith, SFC Tyrone Stacy,

SSG Victor Suarez,

SPC Rodney Swaray, PFC Taia Tunu, PV2 Bran-

don Willson, SGT Kendall Winborn, and PFC

Brandon Wooley, SPC Michael Jackson, SPC

Omar Ortiz, SPC Jeffrey Pearsall, SGT Andrew

Skipper, SPC Jonathan, Streetman, and SGT

Adam Wright.

The Combat Action Badge provides special rec-

ognition to Soldiers who personally engage the

enemy, or are engaged by the enemy during com-

bat operations. The bayonet and grenade are asso-

ciated with active combat. The oak wreath sym-

bolizes strength and loyalty. The following Sol-

diers received this award:

PFC Jake Dement and PFC David Wilson.

The following Soldiers were promoted from the

rank of PFC to SPC:

Charles W. Chambers, Caleb R. Faull, Donate J.

Fenner, Joe M. Gygli, Jerald B. Jones, Tyler G.

Patrick, David A. Wilson, and Brandon M. Woo-

ley.

The following Soldier was promoted from SPC to

SGT:

Michael Harland

The following Non Commissioned Officer was

promoted from

SSG to SFC:

David Melendez

— By SSG Dykes

Page 4

AWARDS/PROMOTION CEREMONY FOR

584TH MOBILITY AUGMENTATION COMPANY

AT FOB WALTON ON 13 OCTOBER 2012

Engineer Round-Up

Staff Sergeant Russell Saboo Home: Amesbury, MA Years in Service: 18 Married: Yes Children: 3 children Only military person in my family Why did you join? Wanted to ever since I

was a small child Deployment job? Supply Sergeant What are your thoughts on the deployment? Interesting. I’m new to sup-

ply, so it has been a good experience What is something that his deployment has taught you? How to effec-

tively execute my job. I only became MOS qualified for supply in Septem-ber of 2011

How does this deployment compare to others? This deployment has pre-sented more challenges than we encountered in Iraq.

Dogs, or cats? Neither, not much of a pet person Favorite Food: Sheppards pie Sports Team: New England Patriots Civilian Career? Just took an AGR spot as a Supply Sergeant Favorite College: Boston College Vehicle that you own? Chevy Trail Blazer Plans to do when back home? Going to enjoy a vacation to Aruba!

Soldier Spotlight: 182nd Engineer Co.

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 5

Hey Everyone!

If you want to see

more photos and

awesome events and

happenings, check

out the Task Force

Outlaw Facebook

Page!!!

www.facebook.com/

TaskForceOutlaw

Page 6

PFC Gregorvich, Trevor

Hometown: Placerville, CA Years of service: 2 years Married? Yes, to Cheyenne Gregorvich Kids? One, Charleigh Gregorvich Parents? Mother, Greta Gregorvich Why did you join? To make a career out of the Army Deployment job: Route Clearance What are your thoughts on the deployment?

It’s long, but good. We have a great platoon that works very well to-gether.

Something the deployment has taught you, or you are proud of: It has taught me camaraderie. And I’m proud of our numbers.

Dogs, or cats? Nope How does this deployment compare to others?

This is my first deployment. Favorite food, color? American Food, and favorite color is Red Favorite Sports team: The Washington Redskins and The L.A. Dodgers Civilian career? Tow Truck Driver

Soldier Spotlight: 584th Engineer Company

Engineer Round-Up

SGT John Reeves Hometown: Jackson, Missouri Years of service: 6 years in the Guard, 4 years Active Air Force Married? Yes, happily, for 8 years. Kids? 6 of them (I’m big on Family) Why did you join? To finish what I started back in 1985 What are your thoughts on the deployment?

Great living areas, chow’s better than expected. Overall experi-ence is good.

Something the deployment has taught you, or you are proud of: I’m proud of the camaraderie and our current success.

Plans to do when back home? Going to Germany to visit my son, and taking my wife and daugh-ter to France.

Hobbies: Hanging out with the family, hunting, fishing, occasion-ally riding motorcycles, and archery

Soldier Spotlight: 1138th Engineer Company

On 19 October, members

of HHC and FSC 120th En-

gineer companies partici-

pated in the "Fallen Hero

5K Remembrance Run", a

5 K run to benefit the

Tragedy Assistance Pro-

gram for Survivors. The

Sergeant Audie Murphy

Club sponsored the event

and raised over nine

thousand dollars from the

run. SSG Manuel Castillo

said, “With so many

events put on by the

MWR, it is impossible to

participate in them all.

But when the money

raised goes to a cause

that we can all get be-

hind, it really inspires all

ages to participate.” “It

brings us together and

really builds unit cohe-

sion” Castillo said.

SPC Jacob Few said “it is

really nice to see every-

one come together for a

good cause.”

In addition to the money

raised, a chair was built

and donated to the War-

rior Recovery Center.

Participants were encour-

aged to sign the chair and

put words of encourage-

ment on it before it was

given to the center.

SFC Clay Thompson said

“It was a great opportu-

nity to give something

back to our fellow Sol-

diers.” Almost 20 Soldiers

from HHC and FSC 120th

EN participated, and the

weather was perfect for

the occasion. “The morn-

ing of the run we were

blessed with great

weather and a slight rain

to cut down on the dust.”

Thompson said. 5 K runs

to benefit different or-

ganizations or events are

common on post, and

more Soldiers from the

120th Engineers are par-

ticipating on a regular ba-

sis. We have not yet or-

ganized an official

“running club”, but I

think one is in store for

the near future!

By CPT Paul Wyckoff

Fallen Hero 5K

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 7

Adversity comes in many different forms, and in many guises. One day you'll be getting adversity from your boss, the next day you'll find your finances don't cover this month's rent, and then after that you might find yourself injured and unable to move. These are all everyday problems that all of us come across, and while some people certainly suffer 'more adversity' than others, it's fair to say that we all encounter it in a number of ways and practically every day. It's simply a fact of life unfortunately and there's no getting away from it. Life is full of challenges and it's tough, but ultimately what will dictate the kind of life you live and your eventual fortune is how you respond to those chal-lenges and those problems. It's like Rocky says to his son in Rocky 6: 'It aint about how hard you can hit, it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep mov-ing forward'. Wise words. Here are 4 things to do if problems arise: 1. Come Up With a Plan, and Don't Give Up

2. Attack Every Problem at its Root

3. Recognize the Value of Challenge

4. Call on Your Friends

Page 8

Chaplain Brown: Adversity

Engineer Round-Up

Within the last month here

at the 1433rd ANA liaisons

office we have continued

working side by side. The

training we provide day in

and day out has proved to

be working out greatly. We

have noticed, during times

of observation when ANA

are on mission or preparing

for mission that they are ap-

plying the basic tasks that

we have taught them.

The ANA commander has

stated on numerous occa-

sions, how delighted he is

to see how well his soldiers

are developing due to our

teaching, as well as, our in-

teractions with each other.

We are building stronger

ties by utilizing individual

soldiers from our platoons

to aid in training to help our

soldiers learn more about

this culture and its people.

So as we continue, we keep

teaching and interacting to

ensure that we complete

our mission of development

for both the ANA and our-

selves.” We Came, We Saw,

We Taught.”

— 1SG David A. Rye

1433rd: We Came, We Saw, We…

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 9

Continuing in our efforts to support our down trace units in the

best possible manner, Forward Support Company (FSC) 120th be-

gan running organic Combat Logistics Patrols (CLPs) on 16 Oct.

Previously, all logistical movements were conducted by imbed-

ding with the 117th Combat Service Support Battalion (CSSB). By

conducting self supported organic missions, the FSC is able to

provide faster response times to our closest down trace units.

While longer missions will still need to be imbedded, the ability to

support the shorter runs allows the FSC to visit the down trace units more often. This also al-

lows support of external operations in areas not nor-

mally covered by the CSSB. LT Bell said that “The

primary mission of the FSC is to provide unlimited

support to all our units who need parts and equip-

ment. Running our own CLP’s allows us to do this in

a much more efficient manner.”

— CPT Paul A. Wyckoff

FSC 120th Begins Self Supported Missions

Sgt. Eric M. Andrist, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, the Task Force Outlaw Financial Liability Investigation

of Property Loss (FLIPL) manager, was promoted to Staff Sgt in a ceremony October 29 at Valhalla Com-

pound, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Andrist was pinned by long time supervisor, mentor and friend

Sgt First Class Denny Luna and former drill sergeant Sgt First Class Rodney Knox.

Staff Sgt. Eric M. Andrist was born August 28, 1969 in Independence, MO. He attended Catholic Schools,

graduating in 1988 from Christian Brothers College High School where he received his first taste of the

military as part of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC). By graduation he had risen

through the ranks to Captain and Assistant to the Battalion Commander. Although he did not join the

Army until almost 20 years later, his time was spent transforming him into the hard worker and leader he is

today. Andrist attended Southwest Missouri State University (aka Missouri State University) for 2 years

and transferred to the University of Missouri at Kansas City to finish his BA in communication, graduating

in 1994. For the next several years he worked for financial services firms, working his way into manage-

ment. In a 13 week Effective Speaking and Listening Skills course, he was awarded the Highest Award for

Achievement by his peers. However, Andrist found himself unfulfilled. September 11, 2001 resonated in

him and he knew he could do more. He remembered back to his high school years and how he had thrived

in JROTC. Andrist wished he had served his country.

Upon moving to Oklahoma in 2007, Andrist enlisted in the Oklahoma Army National Guard and attended

basic training in April at Fort Sill, OK. As a 37 year old E4, Andrist said his first thoughts as Drill Ser-

geant Knox began yelling at him as he stepped off the bus were, “Oh my God, what have I done?” While

the next 10 weeks were unbelievably brutal on his body, it brought back the discipline that had grown dor-

mant inside. “I excelled at physical fitness and rifle marksmanship. I wanted to beat kids half my age be-

cause they did not know what I knew. The mind is stronger than the body,” said Andrist. He attended AIT

at Fort Jackson, SC for 42A, Human Resources Specialist, and returned home to OK.

When 1LT Dougherty, an RSP Cadre, was asked what he remembered about Andrist, he said, “My

impulsive critique of the new recruit categorized Andrist as too old, possibly unable to perform battle drills

without his older frame breaking down, not to mention the generational gap between him and the other re-

cruits. Dealing with young seventeen and eighteen year old Soldiers can easily agitate an older enlistment,

as I had seen before. Andrist purged all my criticism with his bright outlook on life and eagerness to do

whatever it took to make the best of the situation. He has truly proven that it's never too late to pursue aspi-

rations.”

Specialist Andrist deployed with the 45th ROC in 2008 in support of OIF. His outlook on life and

work ethic shined through during his deployment. Upon returning from Iraq, Active Guard and Reserve

(AGR) Soldiers who had deployed with him advised him to start applying for AGR jobs. In April 2009,

Andrist was hired as the Administrative NCO for the 2120th Engineer Company. Andrist walked in the

door on his first day eager to learn and excel in his new job. Staff Sgt Michael Horn and Sgt First Class

Luna quickly learned that Spc Andrist was an asset to the 2120th. Andrist took ownership of all of his ad-

ministrative duties and was always looking for more. His work ethic and concern for all Soldiers in his

command is second to none. In May 2010 Andrist was promoted to Sergeant and has attended two addi-

tional MOS producing schools: 92Y Unit Supply Specialist and 12W Carpentry and Masonry Specialist.

Page 10

Staff Sergeant Eric Andrist

Engineer Round-Up

Andrist was selected to deploy with the 120th Engineer Battalion as a 92Y and immediately began working

hard to lean his new job. Soon after deployment, we learned Andrist was selected to EPS fill a vacant E6

92Y in the rear.

Learning of his promotion, Staff Sgt Andrist said, “I know two things now, hard work pays off and do not

get complacent, there are thousands of Soldiers out there that would do anything to have my job.”

Congratulations SSG Andrist. You have shown tremendous dedication to your Soldiers and it's nice to see

you get rewarded for your hard work.

BTW...How's that move to the SEC working out? SFC Wade Curtis

"In your military career and civilian life, you will continue to succeed and move forward with your strong

sense of courage and a strong work ethic as you have displayed as a SGT and as a person; Congratulation

SSG Andrist and many more to come". CPT Tryon, 120th EN BN Rear

— CPT Sharla Campbell

The NCO Creed No one is more professional than I. I am a Noncommissioned Officer, a leader of soldiers. As a Noncom-

missioned Officer, I realize that I am a member of a time honored corps, which is known as “The Backbone

of the Army”. I am proud of the Corps of Noncommissioned Officers and will at all times conduct myself

so as to bring credit upon the Corps, the Military Service and my country regardless of the situation in

which I find myself. I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or personal safety.

Competence is my watchword. My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind—

accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my soldiers. I will strive to remain technically and tacti-

cally proficient. I am aware of my role as a Noncommissioned Officer. I will fulfill my responsibilities in-

herent in that role. All soldiers are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that leadership. I know

my soldiers and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my

soldiers and never leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending both rewards

and punishment.

Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties; they will not have to accomplish

mine. I will earn their respect and confidence as well as that of my soldiers. I will be loyal to those with

whom I serve; seniors, peers, and subordinates alike. I will exercise initiative by taking appropriate action

in the absence of orders. I will not compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget, nor

will I allow my comrades to forget that we are professionals, Noncommissioned Officers, leaders!

Staff Sergeant Eric Andrist, Cont...

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 11

Specialist Steven Redmon

Home: PIGGOTT, AR.

Years in Service: 2 in December

Marital status: Single

Parent: Pam Moore

1st thoughts when hearing about Deployment: I was con-sidering going Active Duty, so when I found out, I was ex-cited because I was ready to get out of Arkansas for a while.

Something you have learned on this Deployment: Route Clearance was all new to me. There was no training in B.C.T. for any of this type of job. I appreciate life more. Here I am driving a million dollar vehicle and these people live in a Mud Hut. Living on Potted meat and Ramien noodles isn’t all that bad considering what these people endure.

Favorite Food: Duck wrapped in Bacon

Sports Teams: Atlanta Braves Baseball and the Arkansas Razorbacks

Hobbies: Playing the drums and Guitar

Plans when you go back home: Go to college and plan a trip to Washington, DC. Thinking about a full time job in the National Guard

What were your thoughts on your first mission outside the wire? Most stressful 8 hours of my entire life. It was the first time ever driving an RG with rollers on it, and my LT. was hollering in my ear “turn this was, no turn that way” I didn’t know if he was talking about turning the rollers or steering wheel. But we all survived and I can laugh about it now.

Final Words for the next Unit: We are in a war zone, so don’t complain about Internet and cell phone

service. Compared to the wars our fellow soldiers have fought in the years before us, i.e. Vietnam,

Korea, and both World Wars, our living conditions are pretty nice.

Page 12

Soldier Spotlight: 1039th Engineer Co.

Engineer Round-Up

KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – 584th Mobility Augmentation Company (MAC) Sol-diers held a breast can-cer awareness 5K run on October 27th at a Forward Operating Base in Southern Af-ghanistan in support of October; Breast Cancer Awareness Month. By holding this event they helped spread aware-ness and support throughout the FOB and to the families touched by cancer back home. According to U.S. Army Capt. Joseph Frederick, 584th MAC Com-mander, Task Force Outlaw, this is a topic that his Soldiers are passionate about, and wanted to bring aware-ness and support to.

Pvt. First Class Trevor Gregorvich of 584th MAC’s 3rd Platoon in-fluenced all around him through his conta-gious passion to sup-port the planning and preparation of the event. Despite being deployed he became inspired to plan and execute this run, stat-ing that “no matter what your situation is, you can make an im-pact.” His mother in law, Leslie Moddy in-spired him to create this run. She fought cancer and won 5 years ago. He donned a shirt that read, “I run for Leslie Moody” in sup-port of her and her vic-tory. Each participant wore a sign that proudly said “I run for” and they inscribed the person that inspired them to run the race.

The signs are pinned to the custom pink shirts that Sgt. First Class Melendez designed and Capt. Frederick

purchased in support of the event. The shirts displayed a Wooly Bully protecting second base from breast can-cer, who is trying to steal it. The shirt repre-sents our company, the cause, and the fight that impacts so many people.

To help support the cause, over 80 partici-pants from the FOB came out and ran the 5k. The runners came from three battalions and five companies to participate in the event.

Pvt. First Class Gregor-vich put it well, “everybody knows what they are running for, not an award but for the people out there struggling with cancer, but we are here today to support this particular cancer.” — 1LT Brittany E. Hine

Saving Second Base

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 13

Page 14

Key Leader Engagement

Engineer Round-Up

LTC Jack Ritter, Outlaw 6,

met with Captain Said Ma-

boob Said Karim, 4th Bri-

gade, 205 Afghan National

Army Corps, Route Clear-

ance Company Com-

mander at a FOB in South-

ern Afghanistan, 16 Octo-

ber 2012 to discuss partner-

ship challenges and the

way ahead for the partner-

ship assistance between the

1039th Engineer Company

(Arkansas Army National

Guard) and Captain Said’s

ANA RCC Company. The

Key Leader Engagement

was hosted by Captain Said

and took place within the

ANA compound at TK.

Both Commanders dis-

cussed equipment issues,

training challenges, and

made a little bit of small

talk over tea and snacks.

Both agreed that the units

are making progress to-

wards the goal of sustain-

able independent opera-

tions, and more work in

certain areas is needed.

Partnering with the ANA

and assisting with their ca-

pabilities development is

paramount in the successful

transition of security to the

Government of the Islamic

Republic of Afghanistan.

— CSM Richard Raby

On 21 October, SPC

Daniel Mahan com-

peted in a jump

rope competition

put on by MWR to

benefit the

Wounded Warrior

Program. Over

twenty people com-

peted in the compe-

tition where the

prize was a $100 gift

card to the PX and a

recognition plaque.

Entry fees were

gathered in the form

of a donating a gift

to the Wounded

Warriors. “It was fun

and a great way to

help some of our

own” Mahan said.

After being de-

clared the winner of

the competition,

Mahan donated his

winnings back to the

Wounded Warriors.

— CPT Paul Wyckoff

XO Foxhole

“As Seen Through the Eyes of the XO”

Congrats to Spc. Mahan

Now, on to better things. Many of you may be asking, “Who is this guy that talks of fun-filled adventures that re-semble an episode of ‘The Of-fice’”? For those of you that don’t know me, I am most no-tably known as “Major D”. I hope it is obvious where I got the nickname from, but for those of you who can’t figure it out, then try pronouncing my last name. I have the privilege of talking on the phone, daily, to several soldiers, from several different units. I answer the phone, “Outlaws! Major D”. For those of you that have called me before can verify. For those that haven’t, I give permission for anyone to call me anytime just so you can hear me say it. In fact, I enjoy visiting with as many folks from Task Force Outlaw as I can, but I would prefer to talk with them in person whenever possible. Since I seem to have been is-

sued a nice plush office chair, I guess the commander is drop-ping a hint that I won’t be get-ting out of the office much. So I try to take advantage of meet-ing as many Soldiers as I can as they come through Headquar-ters on their way out to their final location or as they stop in to conduct business here. Next time any of you are here, stop by my office in the Outlaw Command Group to say hi or grab some beef jerky or a cold drink. BAM! Outlaws! — MAJ Brian DeShazo

Hey Outlaws! I wanted to take an opportunity to start up a new article to give some per-spective on how I see things that go on in Afghanistan. Of course, most of my perspective is from the 9.5’ X 11.5’ plywood sheathed cube of electronic mayhem and seemingly endless white boards, where I spend 14 of my 24 hours a day sitting in front of a computer screen of spreadsheets, colored charts, and reports with three phones on the wall that ring constantly. By the way, I have been known to have two phones up to my ear at once. Now don’t get me wrong, this is not about how hard I work or how busy I am; although, I have been known to voice the fact that the Battalion Executive Officer (XO) is the busiest job in the Army. Any-one that wants to dispute this can come spend a week with me and then make an accurate assessment.

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 15

1SG Michael Behnkendorf Home: Bradgate, IA Years in Service: 16

Married: Yes

Children: 2 children

Why did you join? Money for college

What are your thoughts on the deployment? Just got here, but ready to get started. Every step is on more closer to home.

How does this deployment compare to others? More memorable, more responsibility deploying as the 1SG

Favorite Food: Steak

Sports Team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Dogs or cats? More of a dog person

Favorite College: University of Iowa

Vehicle that you own? Chevy Silverado

Plans to do when back home? Enjoy the summer!

CPT Jack Morrow Home: Pomeroy, WA Years in Service: 10

Married: Yes

Children: Not yet

Why did you join? For the adventure!

How does this deployment compare to others? More responsibility, privilege of being in command for this one

Favorite Food: Steak

Sports Team: Seattle Mariners

Dogs or cats? More of a dog person

College: West Point

Vehicle that you own? 07 Harley road king custom

Plans to do when back home? Go on a long road trip!

Page 16

Command Highlight: 693rd Engineer Company

Command Highlight: 693rd Engineer Company

Engineer Round-Up

Specialist Woidell, Kenneth Hometown: Elizabethtown, PA Years of service: 1 year, 10 months Married? Yes, no kids Parents? Ken and Tricia Woidell Why did you join? To serve my Country and to see the World Deployment job: Dismount/Gunner/Driver/Talon Operator What are your thoughts on the deployment? Being in the area that we are

in, makes it exciting compared to other parts of the country. I feel good about the work we do for Coalition Forces, but it’s very redundant.

Something the deployment has taught you, or you are proud of: Proud of the number of IEDs (Improvised explosive devices) that our platoon has found and cleared.

Dogs, or cats? Both. How does this deployment compare to others? This is my first deployment. Favorite food, color? Wings, and favorite color is Red Favorite Sports team: Philadelphia Eagles College? Yes. West Virginia University. Plans to do when back home? PCS to Hawaii or Germany

What does the Engineer Castle make me think of? FORTIFICATION WEBSTER DEFINES IT AS: A. TO MAKE STRONG B. TO REINFORCE BY ADDING C. TO IMPART PHYSICAL STRENGTH OR ENDURANCE D. TO GIVE EMOTIONAL, MORAL, OR MENTAL STRENGTH TO E. TO STRENGTHEN From the inception of the Engineers we have definitely MADE STRONG units to be reck-oned with, we have REINFORCED by adding well trained, well equipped, and some very experienced soldiers. We empower the PHYSICAL STRENGTH & ENDURANCE to accom-plish the mission. We constantly give EMOTIONAL, MORAL, and MENTAL STRENGTH to one another to keep focus of the mission at hand. And we have BECOME STRONG; but not only as Engineer Soldiers, but as a family. We have all become someone to depend on; we protect, care for, and believe in each other. We even have a few squabbles like all siblings do, only to pick each other up, come to terms with our differences, and continue to make sure no one messes with OUR family. This has become the norm of the Engineers, who lead the way. Across the battlefield many Engineer Units have en-dured changes, only to pick up and drive on, not letting the little things become distracters that would stop the nor-mal Soldier. The strength, moral fiber and proud posture of Engineer units remind me of that big red Engineer Castle we are all part of: LOOMING LARGE… FORTIFIED!!! — 1SG David A. Rye (Rockhound 7), 1433rd Engineers

Soldier Spotlight: 584th Engineer Company

Words From the TOP: Fortification

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 17

Now that we have settled into our new home here in Southern Afghanistan, missions are in full swing and your Soldiers are working hard to fulfill the route clearance requirements. Octo-ber has been busy, but the new sense of a predictable rhythm helps everyone to stay focused as the weeks tick by. It’s also nice that we work in the same basic areas now because we’re getting to know the locals living in each village. SSG Jameson is often seen with Afghani chil-dren swarming his vehicle for candy hand-outs. And, SFC Wooster is constantly request-ing our interpreter, nicknamed Happy, in order to ask informa-tion from some of the village elders or our ANA partners.

One variation from the mis-sions this month was a trip to KAF (one of the largest bases in southern Afghanistan). While the purpose of the trip was to

get some of our equipment worked on, many of 3rd Pla-toon’s Soldiers enjoyed the ex-perience of being able to buy their choice of food and look

around some of the local shops.

Other than missions, 3rd Pla-

toon’s Soldiers continue to do

what they do best. The Buffalo

Crew (SGT Anderson, SPC Hof-

fer, PFC Jarone, and occasion-

ally SPC Jones) can be seen

working on their vehicle,

launching the Army’s version of

a remote control airplane, play-

ing video games (no wonder

they’re good with the Buffalo

arm), or just screaming “BUF-A-

LO-OH” to passersby. Anyone

passing by the gym is likely to

see SGT ‘Doc’ Woolard inflicting

pain on those that brave his

workouts; usual customers are

SSG Jameson and PVT Deleon.

SGT Works has taken up gar-

dening, ‘Merica style. He has a

solid patch of soil staked out

with an American flag and grass

beginning to sprout. PFC

McMahon is sure to be reading

his Kindle in his off-time. And,

just about any 3rd Platoon Sol-

dier is likely to be building addi-

tions to their tent areas when

not on mission.

—CPT Alex Veiga

Commander 23rd Eng. Co.

23rd Engineer Company: Settling In

Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 18

PFC Whitney and SPC McMahon practicing

DNA/evidence collection during a recent

Task Force Paladin MTT in Southern Afghani-

Halloween or Hallowe'en, (a contraction of "All Hallows' Evening"), also known as All Hallows' Eve, is a yearly celebration observed in a number of countries on October 31, the eve of the Western Christian feast of All Hallows (or All Saints). According to many scholars, it was originally influenced by western European harvest festivals and festivals of the dead with possible pagan roots, particularly the Celtic Samhain. Others maintain that it originated independently of Samhain and has Christian roots.

Typical festive Halloween activities include trick-or-treating (also known as "guising"), attending costume parties, carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, light-ing bonfires, apple bobbing, visiting haunted attractions, playing pranks, telling scary stories, and watching horror films. Happy Halloween from the 120th Engineer Battalion! — SPC J. Alex Klein

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

SPC Mitchell (HHC Medic)

sporting her Cat Costume in

the S-1 office, Oct. 31, 2012

Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 19

FSC 120th EN BN:

Please help us in congratulating PFC Bryan Bell

on his new baby girl Brianna Dawn Bell. She was born on

19 October 2012, and was 5lb 8oz and 19 1/4" long.

Both mom and baby Brianna are doing good!

HHC 120th EN BN:

Please help us in congratulating PFC Blake Cradduck and Bretta

Elaine Williams on their new baby boy, Sawyer Berkley Cradduck.

He was born the 17th of October, was 7 pounds 6 ounces, and 20

¼ inches long. Both the mother and baby are doing well.

Baby Blurb

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

1433rd:

SSG Steven Pietila 11/01

SPC Jacob Parske 11/06

SPC Mollie Welcenbach 11/06

SFC Jamie Chiauzio 11/07

SPC Jon Partain 11/08

SGT Travis Dykstra 11/10

SSG Jesse Ciesielski 11/13

1138th:

PFC Austin Neal 11/12

1039th:

PFC Taron Robinson 11/05

SPC Cody Bennett 11/09

SPC Nathan Reeves 11/11

SPC Francisco DeJesus 11/14

120th HHC: SPC Daniel Mahan 11/14

120th FSC:

1LT Robert Schollenbarger 11/04

SSG Paul Moya 11/12

PFC William Frazier 11/12

182nd:

PFC Joseph Lyons 11/01

SSG Walter St. Dennis 11/04

SPC James Lavallee 11/08

PV2 Ryan Fitzgerald 11/10

SPC Todd Eastman 11/11

SPC Kyle Miranda 11/12

When it comes to vitamin supplements and controversy, vitamin D is up there at the top.

A quick search on the internet will lead you to multiple indications and cautions regarding

its use. Most of us associate it with building strong bones but it is also thought to help treat high blood pressure, high

cholesterol, arthritis, asthma, muscle weakness, depression and weakened immunity, just to name a few. Found natu-

rally in some fatty fish and often added to foods like milk most of the vitamin D we get, nearly 90% comes from exposure

to the sun. The only problem, with increased awareness of the dangers of skin cancer we cover up and use sun screen

when out of doors AS WE SHOULD. Unfortunately when properly applied a sunscreen of 8 or above may block most of

the conversion of the vitamin D in our skin by the sun. Therein lays the problem, especially as we enter into the winter

months. With the majority of natural vitamin D coming as a result of sun exposure and that being reduced even further

during winter. There are some feel the lack of vitamin D contributes to the “winter blues”. It would seem reasonable

then to rely on a supplement to fill that void. But what form and how much? D2 eryocalciferol, and D3 cholecalciferol are

both commercially available. D3 seems to be getting the most press these days and is touted by many to be the “D” of

choice. As for the amount the most quoted range for adults is 1000 to 2000 iU (international units) per day. For children

consult your provider. In fact if you would like to know if you have a vitamin D deficiency or not your provider should be

able to order a blood test and provide you with the results and even better guidance with regards to dosage. Yes you can

overdose on any vitamin, including D. The results can be unpleasant, nausea, vomiting and kidney failure which may be

irreversible. So what is the take home. Our bodies need vitamin D for many of its functions. Unless you eat large enough

quantity of foods containing D or get regular whole body exposure to the sun a D supplement seems a reasonable choice

when used as directed. Who knows maybe this winter won’t seem so blue if you Do. — Doc Holiday

(A.k.a. Battalion PA)

Page 20

Medical Corner:

“To D or not to D…”

Engineer Round-Up

Company Commander and the

Platoon Leaders. In turn, the

Company Leadership tacked

their Soldiers, symbolically in-

ducting them into the fellowship

of “combat veterans”. The

1039th Engineer Company is con-

ducting route clearance missions

as a member of Task Force Out-

law within RC(S) through the

spring of next year. They are

also charged with conducting

partnered operations and train-

ing with their Afghanistan Na-

tional Army Engineer counter-

parts in order to support the

transition of security operations

Captain Seth Jacobs “tacks” 1SG

Fredrick Siebert during the

1039th Engineer Company’s

“Tacking Ceremony” conducted

17 October 2012 in the northern

operational area of Regional

Command South – RC(S), Af-

ghanistan. About half of the

1039th Engineer Company con-

sists of combat veterans, making

this deployment the first for

many. LTC Jack Ritter, the 120th

Engineer Battalion Commander,

and CSM Richard Raby, the 120th

Engineer Battalion Command

Sergeant Major, presided over

the event by first tacking the

to the Government of the Islamic

Republic of Afghanistan.

—CPT Paul Wyckoff

1039th Engineer Company Tacking

The weather is starting to get cool and the days are getting shorter here in Af-

ghanistan. As we go through cold weather training and preparation here, I am

reminded of our families back home. In many cases the responsibilities of pre-

paring for cold weather was probably taken care of by Soldiers that are now in

Afghanistan and must now be taken care of by their spouse and families. The fol-

lowing is a list of things that may need to be done before cold weather hits:

Close the foundation vents around your house.

Put out rat and mice bait in storage buildings, garages, and barns and

make sure pets can’t get to it.

Make sure outside water faucets are insulated and water hoses discon-

nected.

Clean out your home gutter systems after the leaf fall.

Clean your heating unit filters.

Winterize lawn mowers, weed eaters, and other small engine equipment.

Make sure you have a fresh supply of emergency fuel for vehicles and gen-

erators.

Check the antifreeze in your vehicles.

Check the air pressure and condition of your vehicle tires. (You can lose a

pound of air pressure for every 10 degree drop in temperature.)

Buy a can of window deicer and ice scraper for your vehicle.

Check and replace your vehicle’s wiper blades and window wash if

needed.

Keep an extra coat and blanket in your vehicle.

If you use propane or fuel oil for heat, make sure the tank is full.

Stock a supply of emergency drinking water and food that can be eaten

without cooking in case there is a power or water outage.

Keep a flashlight and fresh batteries on hand.

Hopefully it will be a mild winter and no one will have

any problems but it is always good to be prepared for

the worst.

— CSM Richard Raby

The Last Word:

Cold Weather Preparation

Volume I, Issue 9 Page 21

Remember Everyone: While here in Afghanistan, there are a few safety and Internet Security Notes to consider.

1.) Be Very Cautious of what you post on Social Media Platforms such as Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, etc.

2.) Don’t post or say anything that could be considered offensive to any race, gender, religion, or anything of that kind.

3.) Don’t plug any Unauthorized device(s) into any government computer.

4.) If you have anything that you think is questionable, check with the S-6 before you do anything with it.

5.) Any pictures or video of personnel, equipment, vehicles, etc. must be cleared for release by Battalion Public Affairs Office.

DO YOU LIKE WHAT YOU SEE IN THE NEWSLETTER???

DO YOU HAVE A STORY THAT NEEDS TO BE TOLD???

ANYTHING YOU’D LIKE TO SEE IN A LATER ISSUE???

IF SO, CONTACT US!!!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!

COMING SOON!!!

MWR Events

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Birthdays

-

AND MUCH MORE!!!