Summer 2012 - 7th Infantry Regiment Association
Transcription
Summer 2012 - 7th Infantry Regiment Association
THE 7th INfANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION WAR Of 1812 MExICAN-AMERICAN WAR CIVIL WAR INDIAN WARS SPANISHAMERICAN WAR PHILIPPINE INSURRECTION WW I WW II KOREA VIETNAM COLD WAR SOUTHWEST ASIA THE COTTONBALER Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Members attending the Reunion in front of the National Infantry Museum (Photo by April Stull) Check out our Website: www.cottonbalers.com IRAQ Summer 2012 Volume xxIII No. 3 ASSOCIATION OFFICERS •••••••••• Honorary Colonel of the Regiment: LTG John M. LeMoyne, USA Ret. Honorary Sgt Major of the Regiment: CSM Curley Faulk, USA Ret. csmaar@aol.com President: David Spanburg 2783 Grovemore Lane Vienna, VA 22180 703-283-6843 da6dspanburg@verizon.net Immediate Past President: Scott Rutter 7 Hemptor Rd. New City, NY 10956 845-709-4104 scottrutterfnc@yahoo.com 1st Vice President and Chaplain: Father Philip G. Salois, M.S. 101 Walker Street - B5 Newtonville, MA 02460 617-964-0131 617-930-5208 (cell) XUANLOC@aol.com 2nd Vice President: David Jensen 212 Hartwood Drive Gadsen, AL 35901 djensen@mtnviewhospital.com Secretary: Roland B. Merson 60 Tipper Drive Dryfork, WV 26263 304-866-4288 vmerson@frontier.com Treasurer: Ronald L. Bertha 7610 Springfield Hills Drive Springfield, VA 22153-3127 703-455-5240 bertharp@cox.net Editor: David Spanburg 2783 Grovemore Lane Vienna, VA 22180 703-283-6843 da6dspanburg@verizon.net The Cottonbaler Board of Directors: Stephen C. Borkowski * 129 Granville Arch Smithfield, VA 23430 757-357-7072 Stephen.borkowski@us.army.mil Joe Washart 504 Brooke Avenue Magnolia, NJ 08049 jwashart@aol.com Joe Krass 275 Barron Street Bensenville, IL 60106 joeandlu275@comcast.net Robert Burns 150 Cypress Club Drive Apt 502 954-943-2485 Pompano Beach, FL 33060-4739 rsnipermedic@aol.com Greg Cullison * 2838 Stone Mill Pl Beavercreek, OH 45434 gcullison1@verizon.net Historian: Dr. John C. McManus 2560 Hidden Meadow Lane St. Louis, MO 63021-7824 314-965-8321 jcmcelt@sbcglobal.net Historian Emeritus: Sherm Pratt 703-521-7706 Belgian Liaison Officer: Bob Boucart BLVD Anspach 17-B36 1000 Brussels, Belgium Phone: 011-32222177296 boucart02@gmail.com 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry LTC Todd Kelly, USA, CDR* CSM Sean Burns, USA, CSM* 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry LTC Greg Bell, USA, CDR* CSM Jeffrey R. Dillingham* * Denotes active duty --- Check out our website: www.cottonbalers.com 7th Infantry Regiment Association Summer 2012 The Cottonbaler is an official, quarterly publication of the 7th Infantry Regiment Association OBJECTIVES of the 7TH INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION •••••••••• 1. To create and perpetuate a viable and cohesive national organization for the purpose of enjoying the camaraderie and unique membership, and in unison, voice concern for the protection of our cherished American ideals and our individual way of life. 2. To support the military policy that maintains reasonable but strong nuclear and conventional, combat-ready regular and reserve component forces, able to provide adequate national security for our nation and its people. 3. To foster the development of good citizenship, patriotism, and leadership in our American youth, the future of our nation. 4. To insure that posterity is constantly reminded of those instances of service, sacrifice, and dedication to the preservation of our nation’s liberty and freedom by celebrating those dates that recall the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces of the United States, and especially the 7th Infantry Regiment and its component units. 5. To encourage and achieve the mutual benefit and support resulting from a close and cooperative alliance between the Association and the active units of the 7th Infantry Regiment in the United States Army. PLEASE SEND ANY ADDRESS CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS TO Roland B. Merson 60 Tipper Drive Dryfork, WV 26263 vmerson@frontier.com Page 2 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler TABLE OF CONTENTS President’s Page: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 by David Spanburg 2nd Commander’s Comments: . . . . . . . . . . . 5 by LTC Todd Kelly Quartermaster Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 3rd Battalion Commander’s Comments by LTC Greg Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Reunion Questionnaire Tear out & return ASAP . . . . . . . 13-14 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Membership Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 List of Contributors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Taps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Chaplain’s Corner by Father Phil Salois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Reunion Photos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-22 Membership/Donation Form. . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Budget/Financial Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Boswell Scholarship History. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Campaign Participation Credit . . . . . . . . . 24 Summer 2012 Receive Your Cottonbaler Newsletter Electronically via Email To help save printing and mailing costs, members may now receive their Cottonbaler Newsletter via email. Email versions will arrive about 2 weeks before members receive it in the mail. If you are interested in this option, please email our Secretary, Roland Merson, at vmerson@frontier.com. You can change your mind any time and go back to receiving your newsletter by regular mail. Members, particularly Life Members who no longer have to pay the annual membership fee, are encouraged to donate toward the operating expenses of the Association each year. Send your contribution directly to our treasurer, Ron Bertha, 7610 Springfield Hills Drive, Springfield, VA 22153. Cottonbalers on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/28462933742/ National Infantry Museum - Landing Zone X-Ray diorama from the 'Final 100 Yards' Exhibit 'Follow Me' statue at entrance to the National Infantry Museum, Columbus, GA EDITOR: DAVID SPANBURG DISCLAIMER Page layout for this newsletter by: Elizabeth H. Cottrell RiverwoodWriter, LLC, Maurertown, VA 22644 540-436-3969 • www.RiverwoodWriter.com Printed by: Narrow Passage Press (The Print Shop), Woodstock, VA 22664 540-459-4000 • www.ournewspaper.net/ 7th Infantry Regiment Association ••••• While material received for publication is screened for relevance, good taste and general content, the Editor is not responsible for its technical accuracy. If readers wish to challenge the accuracy of an article published in The Cottonbaler, whether contributed by an Association member or reprinted from an outside source, they are welcome to do so by writing to the Editor and explaining the basis for the challenge. Such letters will also be published, if appropriate. Page 3 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 PRESIDENT’S PAGE..... T his issue of the Cottonbaler is slightly late so that we can include some of the highlights from the just completed reunion. This year’s reunion was one of the smallest, if not the smallest one I’ve attended. In order to try and increase participation at the reunions you will find in this newsletter a short questionnaire that I would like you to fill out and mail back me. I’m looking for your input on what we can do to get more members involved and attending the reunions. One suggestion I have received from several members is having the reunions every other year. That is one of the questions: “How often would you like to have a reunion?” I’m also looking at changing the reunion dates from the weekend to during the week. There is a possibility of getting better rates at hotels if we have the reunion during the week. I’m asking that all of you take a few minutes and fill out the questionnaire. I’ll provide an update on the results in future issues. This is critical to the future of the Association. This is your chance to let the Association know what you want. For those of you who missed this year’s reunion, you missed an excellent one. On Friday, we not only visited the brand new National Infantry Museum, we also attended the Graduation Ceremony for two companies of brand new Infantry Soldiers. It was a pleasure to see tomorrow’s Infantry Soldiers finish their training and be recognized as part of the best Military ever. The grandstand was overflowing with their families and friends. It was really something to see. The Museum is almost beyond words. Organized by eras, the galleries are both high-tech and personable. Not only do you get the overall story, but you also get to learn about individuals. Having a guided tour led by a museum curator really made it special. You not only got the see the exhibits, but in many cases, the stories behind the exhibits. For me the highlight of the museum was ‘The Last 100 Yards Ramp.’ Since its formation in 1775, it has been said that the United States Army Infantry has owned “the last 100 yards” of the battlefield. After the Armor and Air support have completed their mission, it is the Infantryman’s job to face the enemy bayonet to bayonet. A gently sloped ramp contains life-sized dioramas depicting significant battles 7th Infantry Regiment Association Association President David Spanburg in the Infantry’s history, including Yorktown, Antietam, Soissons, Normandy, Corregidor, Soam-Ni, LZ X-Ray, and Iraq. Robert Burns said afterwards that the Iraqi portion was so realistic that it gave him goose-bumps and it felt like he was back in Iraq. A very sober and touching exhibit, it seemed that everyone was a little more subdued afterwards and reflected on the history of the Infantry. If you are ever anywhere near Columbus, GA/Fort Benning, you need to take the time to visit the National Infantry Museum. It’s your story, your history, your legacy. At the Regimental Banquet on Saturday, we were able to welcome several soldiers from both 2-7 and 3-7. I would like to thank them for taking time out of their busy schedules to drive to Columbus from Fort Stewart and spend some time with us. We received briefings from both Battalions on what they have been doing for the last year and what is scheduled for the remainder of this year. You can read more details on what the battalions have been doing and what is planned for the upcoming future later in the Newsletter. We have articles and photos from both Battalions. As part of the Regimental Banquet, LTG (Ret) John Le Moyne was recognized as the new Honorary Colonel of the Regiment and was presented with a Certificate from the Chief of Infantry. I know that John will be a great asset to the Battalions as the Honorary Colonel. I would like to thank BG (Ret) Dale Nelson for the work he’s done as the previous Honorary Colonel. So if you happen to see John somewhere, please congratulate him. Page 4 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler I would also like to welcome our new Board Members, Greg Cullison and Stephen Borkowski and to thank both Cliff Hall and Ron Turner for their great work these last four years as Board Members. It’s been a pleasure to work with them and I look forward to working with Greg and Stephen. As I write this (mid-June), next year’s reunion is undecided. During the briefings at the Regimental Dinner, we learned that both Battalions will be deployed next June. Hopefully the Officers and Board will have met and made a decision on next year’s reunion before this gets printed. If not, the Cottonbaler website will have the latest news and updates on the reunion planning for next year. Summer 2012 and the Vietnam War Memorials. At every location, I saw hundreds of our fellow Veterans and their families. At each memorial, wreaths and flowers were present and ceremonies planned to remember those who gave their lives to ensure we still have our freedoms today. It was especially touching when strangers approached you and said Thank You for Your Service and Welcome Home. So when you see a fellow veteran, say thank you. It really does make a difference. Volens et Potens David Spanburg President ♦ On Memorial Day weekend, I spent an evening on the Mall in Washington, DC visiting some of the memorials. I visited the WWII, the Korean War, “Cottonbaler” 2nd Battalion COMMANDER’S COMMENTS... G LTC Todd Kelly USA, CDR reetings from Fort Stewart and Fort Polk! As I prepare this edition’s comments, the Task Force is at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) in Fort Polk, Louisiana, preparing for our upcoming deployment to Afghanistan. Our mission in Afghanistan will focus on conducting Village Stability Operations (VSO) with Special Operations Forces (SOF). Our mission readiness exercise has provided a great opportunity to establish relationships with our SOF counterparts, train small unit leaders and tactics, enhance our understanding of cultural awareness, and build confidence in our soldiers, equipment, and leadership. Your Cottonbalers are incredibly motivated, enthusiastic, and excited about the training and the upcoming mission in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. In April, Task Force 2-7 IN participated in Raider Focus, our Brigade level train up exercise for deployment to the Joint Readiness Training Center. 7th Infantry Regiment Association The intensive training period focused on developing our squad leaders and their Soldiers to conduct VSO in Afghanistan. Our squads worked along three lines of effort to include security, development, and governance. The scenario challenged our squads to gain the trust and confidence of the local villagers through conduct of key leader engagements and interaction with the local populace. Our soldiers honed their warfighting skills and completed the training with a better appreciation of the complexities of cultural awareness and building rapport with host nation local village leadership and security forces. The exercise prepared us well for our rotation to JRTC. At JRTC during the last couple of weeks, our Soldiers and partnered SOF units continued to conduct live fire training, situational training exercises, and force-on-force training. We rotated our squads through situational training exercise lanes and live fire scenarios akin to what our Page 5 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler SSG Smith, 2-7, exits a Humvee during a training excercise soldier may encounter in Afghanistan. Our live fire training included both mounted and dismounted marksmanship skills, indirect fire integration with our mortar platoon, squad fire and maneuver, and replicated casualty evacuation. Our force-on-force training allowed for continuous integration at multiple echelons from our squads to the battalion task force involving an opposition force and role players. All of our Soldiers received world class training and feedback from the Observer-Controller-Trainers (OCTs) at the JRTC. The rotation allowed our Cottonbaler soldiers to build relationships with our SOF partners, strengthen every unit’s foundation of warfighting skills that we established during Raider Focus, and help ourselves see the training areas that need continual refinement. Through hard work and commitment, our Cottonbalers stand poised and ready for the deployment. Summer 2012 their dedication and commitment to the Cottonbalers. Their contributions were instrumental in preparing our soldiers for the upcoming deployment. We want to wish them and their families the best of luck as they begin their new assignments. We welcome our new Operations Officer, MAJ Matt Chitty, and his family to the Task Force. Matt is coming to us from Third Infantry Division Headquarters. Also, several Company Commanders relinquished command during the last couple of months to include former Headhunter 6, CPT Tom Whitehead; Assassin 6, CPT Matt Goncalves; and Bushmaster 6, CPT Jeremy Currin. We wish CPT Whitehead and CPT Goncalves our best as they begin their next assignments in the Division. CPT Currin did not go far as he recently assumed command of our Headquarters and Headquarters Company. Also joining the Cottonbaler team is CPT Brian Hottel who took command of Alpha Company and CPT Matt Dotson who assumed command of Bravo Company. Both officers took their respective guidons in April. We all look forward to working with these great officers and their families as we prepare for our upcoming deployment. Congratulations go out to recently promoted SGT Clouser from Foxtrot Company on his selection as the Division Soldier of the Year. Volens et Potens, LTC Todd Kelly Able 6 ♦ Upon our redeployment from Fort Polk, the Task Force will recover our equipment, represent the Cottonbalers with pride during participation in Marne Week, and take some well deserved time off with block leave. Our July and August training will focus on maintaining the sharpened edge that we honed at the JRTC. Expect the Task Force to work small unit tactics, cultural awareness, language, and marksmanship training as we prepare for the deployment in early Fall. During the last couple of months, we have experienced significant turnover in our senior leaders and command teams. I want personally thank MAJ Rod Morgan and SGM Scott Broxton for 7th Infantry Regiment Association C/2-7 takes it to the Enemy during training at JRTC, Ft. Polk, LA Page 6 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 CPT Boler, 2/7, reenlists Specialist Brown at JRTC 2-7 Soldiers boarding plane enroute to the JRC at Ft. Polk 2-7 Soldiers arriving at Ft. Polk 2-7 Soldiers training at Ft. Polk B/3-7 Soldiers during training B/3-7 Soldiers during training Our Association Quartermaster is Leonard W. Collins. The entire selection of Cottonbaler items can now be seen on his website where he is set up to accept MasterCard or Visa. Website: www.military-honors.com E-Mail: MilitaryHonors@bellsouth.net or info@Military-Honors.com Phone: 803-300-2554 or Toll free: 1-866-946-6677 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 7 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 “Cottonbaler” 3rd Battalion COMMANDER’S COMMENTS... LTC Greg Bell USA, CDR G reeting Cottonbalers. As summer approaches CSM Dillingham and I would like you all to know that the Cottonbalers of 3-7 IN are training hard to prepare the Soldier for whatever the future holds for us. To those of you who attended the Reunion we say thanks. It was a great event and the Soldiers that attended really enjoyed the time spent with the men and women that represent the true lineage of the Cottonbalers. Special thanks to our new Colonel of the Regiment John Le Moyne. We look forward to having you visit the Battalion here at Fort Stewart. Again thanks for inviting us and we look forward to our next meeting. This summer the battalion will be conducting Platoon level Live Fire Exercises the entire month of June. In July we will take some well deserved leave (about 15 days). In August and September we will continue our collective training with another round of Platoon / Company Live fires and some staff training at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) Leader Training Program (LTP). This training is designed to hone the staffs’ ability to solve problems and develop orders to allow the companies to conducts missions with the best intelligence and resources available. HHC/2-7 Since we last wrote, HHC has been continuing to train at the next couple of levels. We have conducted team and squad level live fires. We continue to bring the training and our schooling to the next level in order to prepare for any future mission. For the Scouts, we’ve had several milestones following the completion of the Battalion’s team-centric collective tasks training. The Reconnaissance Soldiers have distinguished themselves and have brought great credit upon the Cottonbaler Battalion. SGT Cifka, CPL Fellows, SPC Vorhees, and SPC Vigil participated in the AllArmy Small Arms Championships during the month of March. SGT Cifka placed first in the junior enlisted novice category. SGT Robert Thompson, SPC Tim Schuster, and SPC Simon Lim are still enduring the brutal demands of the Mountain Phase of Ranger School and are scheduled to graduate on 22 June 2012. Currently SPC Xachary Way is enduring the wrenching pain of Camp Darby and is expected to graduate Ranger School during the month of July. SPC Vorhees graduated Sniper School in May and became one of two Soldiers from I encourage you to read the companies articles as they highlight some of the training we have completed since our last newsletter. CMS Dillingham and I hope you enjoy your summer. Cottonbalers, By God LTC Greg Bell Baler 6 SGT Thompson, HHC/3-7 shows children from Britton Elementary School one of the Scouts Sniper Weapons. 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 8 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler 3BN Commander’s Comments continued from pg. 8 3-7 IN to graduate from Sniper School. We are looking forward to the mentorship Vorhees is ready to offer to the Battalion. The Soldiers above have answered the call and the challenge of their branch and profession. As the focus on squad collecB/3-7 Soldiers during training tive training continued, our Soldiers learned alternate shooting techniques through a series of reflexive fire ranges, and stress shoots. They also conducted reconnaissance specific training in order to continue our preparation for future contingency operations. During the month of May the Reconnaissance Platoon conducted Mountaineering Training at Camp Frank D. Merrill, Dahlonega GA. The training was the first of its kind for a unit in 4th Brigade, 3ID. The Platoon received critical blocks of instructions in military mountaineering from the 5th Ranger Training Brigade Instructors. The training offered the platoon a basic foundation of excellent tactics and procedures for high altitude operations. The Mortar Platoon’s Soldiers continue to excel in their professional and personal development as Leaders. SPC Robert Pierce, SPC Jeremy Claiborne, SPC Miguel Sandoval, and SPC Justin Crocker attended the Infantry Mortar Leader Course. While the Mortar Platoon continues to grow and develop, the Platoon would also like to sincerely thank and recognize several members for their Leadership during their time with the Cottonbalers. SGT Michael Gray successfully completed Army Recruiter School in Fort Jackson, SC and is on the way to his new assignment in Virginia. SGT Wendell Robinson is pursuing a civilian career after serving the United States Army and the Cotton- 7th Infantry Regiment Association Summer 2012 baler Battalion with honor and dignity. SGT James Herndon is furthering his Army Career through completion of Food Services Specialist Schooling. During the month of April, Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) training was the main focus of medical personnel in the Battalion as well as the Brigade. Six medics were selected to go to Camp Oliver in order to earn their Expert Field Medical Badge. Though all gave a valiant effort and came away with a valuable learning experience, only one medic, SPC Tyler Knoeck, earned the prestigious Expert Field Medical Badge. In May, two medics spent three weeks training Physical Therapy Techniques with CPT Jeremy Fletcher, the 4th Brigade Physical Therapist. The techniques learned will immensely help the soldiers’ ability to diagnose musculoskeletal injuries. All Medics completed HIPPA, fire safety, and AHLTA-T certifications in order to be able to work in the new Troop Medical Clinic. Currently, all medics are preparing to conduct field Battalion Aid Station operations for Platoon Live Fire Exercises in June. Our staff has been integrating their digital systems together in a series of exercises called the Battle Command System of Systems Integration Training. All the staff shops got a chance to break out of their office and set up their digital systems in a remote site to ensure that we could talk with everyone out on the battlefield. The staff may seem like the unsung hero of the battle, but without this piece of the pie, the battalion as we know it would not operate as fluidly as we do. Thanks goes out to all the S A/3-7 Soldiers during training Page 9 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 3BN Commander’s Comments continued from pg. 9 Shops who keep us running every day. The Soldiers of Havoc are on the path to fulfilling whatever mission higher hands down and we are confident that we will take the fight to the enemy and succeed. A/3-7 – CPT Jon Rembetsy Attack Company has been training hard to maintain our momentum increasing our collective proficiency and achievement of our Mission Essential Tasks. During the last quarter Attack Company bid farewell to CPT Vespa and his wife Barbara. CPT Vespa served as the Attack Company Commander during our last deployment in Iraq while Mrs. Vespa held the position of the Family Readiness Group leader. CPT Vespa remains with the Cottonbaler family as he has transitioned to our operations staff, awaiting assignment as the Headquarters and Headquarters Company Commander. We thank them for their tireless efforts and wish them the best of luck in all their future endeavors. 1LT Mannina transitioned from Attack Company where he served as the Company executive officer with distinction, to an assignment with the 75th Ranger Regiment. We said goodbye to SPC Bird and SPC Casey who successfully completed their commitment to the Army with honor. Attack welcomed 1LT Malcolm as the Company executive officer as well as new Platoon leaders 2LT George Chewning to second Platoon and 2LT Nathaniel Bier to third Platoon. In March and April, Attack Company conducted A/3-7 Soldiers during training squad live fire exercises with exceptional results. The training was an outstanding opportunity for each Squad to vet and showcase their skill sets incorporating non-organic assets to include Rotary Wing Aircraft for infiltration and the Company mortars section. Their performance set the standard, executing at levels of increased responsibility and proving they are more than ready to enter into Platoon level training. In conjunction with Squad level tactics Attack trained on the integration and use of close air attack helicopters, with all members of our Fires Section, coordinating with live AH-64 helicopter pilots in call for fire scenarios. In May, Attack Company continued their refinement of Squad level tactics by conducting a second iteration of Squad Live Fire Exercises as well as transitioned to Platoon operations during Platoon STX lanes. The Platoons displayed intense levels of fortitude as they operated during tropical storm Beryl as well as daytime temperatures well above 90 degrees. Attack Company perfected their field craft, establishing patrol bases and conducting operations throughout the periods of darkness. We look forward to continued success as we build our team and prepare for the challenges that await us. Attack Company families are indispensable and crucial to our success. Thank you to our Family Readiness Group and every member of the Attack Family for your support. B/3-7 – CPT William Shields A/3-7 Soldiers during training 7th Infantry Regiment Association Berserker Company has been training hard for the next fight and meeting all of its Mission Essential Tasks. Unfortunately, we have had to say good bye Page 10 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler 3BN Commander’s Comments continued from pg. 10 to SFC Bell and 1SG Floyd; both of whom served with Berserker Company during our last tour in Iraq. SFC Bell went to the University of Wisconsin as a ROTC and 1SG Floyd took on a position of greater responsibility as the Division Headquarters B/3-7 Soldiers during training and Headquarters Battalion First Sergeant. Also 1LT Baez, the Platoon leader for our 2nd Platoon, moved on to a position of great privilege and honor as the Executive Officer in Delta Company. We would also like to welcome our newest members to the Berserker family: 2LT Smith is the new Platoon Leader for our 1St Platoon, 2LT Gabbard is the new Platoon Leader for our 2nd Platoon, and 1SG Farmer who took responsibility of Berserker Company and plans on taking our Company to the next level of discipline and readiness. In March and April, Berserker Company conducted squad live fire. Each Berserker squad successfully completed each drill with precision, including the integration of supporting assets to prepare themselves for tasks they will see on future deployments. In particular, they completed Tactical Site Exploitation, which is gathering intelligence and evidence from an objective to be analyzed for future Summer 2012 targeting. Also during the live fire exercises, the squad leaders and above were trained and certified on key leader engagements, a vital element in counterinsurgency warfare as it gives us the ability to win the hearts and minds of the local populous. Finally, our squads were trained on the integration and use of close air attack helicopters by having every Berserker actually talk to the live AH-64 helicopter pilots. In May, Berserker Company began working on Platoon operations with movement to contact and Platoon raid. We again had the opportunity to work with A/4-3 Aviation, which provided us with UH-60 support for a night air assault mission and also a night aerial resupply mission. Our Platoons are the foundation of this Company and ensuring they are properly prepared to conquer any enemy and accomplish the mission is of utmost importance. As always, the Berserkers would like to thank our Family Readiness Group and every Cottonbaler for his or her love and support. C-3/7 As we enter the summer, I commend the Infantrymen and families of C CO “Crusaders” for their sacrifice and sweat during the past months. Their hard work and efforts have prepared them tactically, technically and conceptually to deploy in support of full spectrum operations. As we bid farewell to Leaders and Soldiers moving on to perpetuate the excellence of Cottonbalers, we welcome a new Company Executive Officer 1LT Wright, Fire Support Officer 1LT Moure, Fire Support NCO SSG Hill, SSG Evans (Squad Leader for 3rd PLT) and LT Sheidler, 1st Platoon Leader. By developing and building upon the foundation of individual, leader and collective platoon tasks, Crusader Company has but one collective training task before them: Platoon Live Fire Exercises. Upon During the F/3-7 Company Field Training Exercise, Maintenance successfully established a Unit Maintenance Collection Point (UMCP) 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 11 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 3BN Commander’s Comments continued from pg. 11 Completion, Crusader will be postured to enter the next phase of training which focuses on theater specific training. As a possible deployment looms on the horizon, we continue our training path. 1LT Barfield moves on to the Old Guard, Washington D.C., 2LT Crawford moves on to become the Forward Support Company Distribution Platoon Leader, SGT Ward moves on to Law Enforcement. Reenlistments: SSG Fields, CPL Som, SGT Nowak, SPC Fortag, SPC Hernandez, SPC Rivera. Promotions: 1LT Lee, SGT Hodgson, SGT Wilmott. We continue our march to obtain constant deployment readiness. I again commend the Soldiers, Leaders and especially the families who are decisive in supporting all the achievements of the Company. It is not the family standing behind the Soldier, but rather beside him that continues to arm our hearts with the strength to march on. D/3-7 Spring is upon us and summer is rapidly approaching as we continue on into collective training. Some highlights from the last few months: Team and Squad STX/LFX, CQB, Combatives certification, Heavy Weapons Leader Course, and most recently, the Company 1SG change of responsibility. Needless to say, we have been extremely busy training for the next mission. SFC Munden (Platoon Sergeant for 2nd Platoon, Delta Company and Combatives Level 2 Instructor) punches a potential “clinchee” (SPC Whaley of 2nd Platoon) Moving through the winter and into spring, Dragon conducted a series of collective training events that will eventually culminate with Platoon Live Fires in June. Both Team and Squad situational 7th Infantry Regiment Association 1LT Jake Wright (Platoon Leader for 1st Platoon, Delta Company) takes a punch as he closes the distance to achieve the clinch on a very large SSG Miles (92nd Engineers Combatives Level 2 Instructor) training and live fire exercises were conducted at the austere training area known as AGR-III (Aerial Gunnery Range) which has been used over the years by 1st Ranger Battalion as a team and squad live fire evaluation ground. The environment was unforgiving being that it was in very close proximity to the Ogechee River. However, the men toughened up and gained valuable training and development essential to training the basics to standard in restrictive terrain. Following team and squad LFX, the focus shifted to gaining proficiency in Close Quarters Battle that consisted of two weeks of training and culminated with a week of training at the C3 Shoothouse. Overall, the kinetic live fire training Dragon Company has conducted is beginning to show in increased tactical proficiency across the board. Following the team and squad phase of collective training, we shifted focus to include essential training in Combatives via the Combatives Level I certification training. This highly successful training event certified more than 25 Soldiers as level I Combatives instructors. In addition to Combatives, Dragon was able to send 6 Soldiers to the Heavy Weapons Leader Course MTT that came to Fort Stewart from Fort Benning courtesy of B/2-29 IN. This course went into detail on the various weapon systems organic to an Infantry Weapons Company bringing a higher level of understanding on the effective use and implementation of our organic weapon systems. These two events further precontinued on pg. 18 Page 12 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 We Need Yo Your Help! Attendance at the reunion has been steadily declining over the last several years. We really need your input and ideas for future reunions. 3OHDVH¿OORXWWKLVTXLFNTXHVWLRQQDLUHDQGUHWXUQLWWRPH 1. How often should the Association have a reunion? A. Ever y year B. Ever y other year C. Only in conjunction with the Societty of tth he 3rd Infantr y Divis ision D. I’m not interested in attending a Reunion 2. What month/Season do you think would be the best time to hold a Reunion? 3. What days of the week would you like to have the Reunion? A. W Wee eekends (Thursday evening to Sunday Morning) B. W Wee eekdays (Tuesday evening to Friday Morning) C. It doesn’t matter 4. List the top 3 destinations where you would like to see a Reunion held: 5. What do you think is a reasonable room rate (per night)) for the Reunion Hotel that you would be willing to pay? A. Under $125 C. $125 - $175 D. $175 - $225 E. Over $225 6. Why Do/Don’t you attend the Reunions and any other comments: Once you’ve completed this questionnaire, simple cut it out of the Newsletter and fold into thirds and then tape or staple together and mail it to me. I’ll include a synopsis of the results I get in the next newsletter. I’m looking for ward to your thoughts and comments on upcoming reunions. David i Sp Spanburg President 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 13 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 Fold here David Spanburg PO Box 3181 0HUUL¿HOG9$ David Spanburg PO Box 3181 0HUUL¿HOG9$ Fold here 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 14 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler NEW MEMBERS BROWN, Robert W. COL, HHC/3-7 & 4-7 IN, P/T 1009 Christmas Court Midland, GA 31820 706-562-9911 rwbvmi78@aol.com LAFFERTY, David 1SG, A/3-7 IN, Iraq 4782 Timberland Drive Pace, FL 32571 850-375-5809 david.lafferty@us.army.mil FARMER, Adam 1SG, B/3-7 IN, Iraq 265 Red Oak Drive Richmond Hill, GA 31324 803-348-2459 Afarm001@yahoo.com VIZZI, Chris SSG, C/3-7 IN, Vietnam 6355 Naples Blvd #5 Suite 11 Naples, FL 34109 Vizzi1@aol.com Summer 2012 TAPS “BE THOU AT PEACE” ~ Fallen Soldiers ~ PLAISTED, Edward W. SGT, HHC, 7th IN, P/T Died 13 April 2011 7th Inf Reg Association Membership Profile As of 2 June 2012 THANK YOU! to the following association members for donations this quarter: Boswell Scholarship fund Operating Expenses LTC (R) David P. Jensen Jr. Silver Star Donor Wallace E. Covert Louis E. Light Bronze Star Donor Robert P. Mentis Bronze Star Donor James R. Norris Bronze Star Donor Walter Henry Jr. Jeffrey J. Hoffman LTC (R) David P. Jensen Jr. Joseph W. Krass Louis E. Light James R. Norris 7th Infantry Regiment Association DUES STATUS: None due (LM, HON, CG, PM) Annual renewals for 2011-2012 Annual renewals for 2012-2013 Total Members 343 181 19 543 CATEGORY SUMMARY: Served with the 7th Infantry, Or attached or supporting units Associate Members Supporting Members Honorary Members 502 22 16 3 PERIOD OF SERVICE SUMMARY: World War II Korea Vietnam Peace Time/Cold War Gulf War/Iraq 64 196 47 79 116 Page 15 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 Chaplain’s Corner Father Philip G. Salois, M.S. 7th Infantry Regiment Association Chaplain D ear Cottonbalers, Summer has finally arrived and warmer weather is upon us. As we look back we have had some very turbulent weather – tornadoes – the most of recent history. I hope and pray that these tornadoes have evaded your cities and towns and homes and that you are all set. The annual reunion at Fort Benning is now over and I regret missing it. I look forward to hearing about it. It was probably the smallest reunion we have had. Many members had conflicts with other family activities. However, I learned that three of our Belgian brothers, Fernand, Albert, and Louis were in attendance. They have been so faithful in attending and keeping the Belgian component alive – a true treasure. At the last minute, Curley Faulk fell ill and was not able to attend the reunion. Please remember Curley and Carol Ann in your thoughts and prayers for renewed health and total recovery. I want to congratulate the newly elected members of the Board of Directors and call upon God’s blessing on them and all the Officers and Members of the Board as we continue to move forward keeping the legacy of the 7th Infantry Regiment alive and vibrant as it continues to take its part in the military history of this great nation. We have recently learned that 2/7 will be deploying to Afghanistan in October and 3/7 will be following shortly after the New Year 2013. We will once again see our young men heading off in theatre being exposed to a still very dangerous and unstable place. We will call upon each of you to remember them in our daily thoughts and prayers. While the reunion was going on, I attended the wedding of one of our Life Members, an Alpha 3/7 soldier with two Iraq tours, Danny Jones to Laura Miller in Richardson, Texas. It was a beautiful wedding and Danny was surrounded by a dozen of his military comrades from all parts of the country. Danny and 7th Infantry Regiment Association Laura will be moving to Bethesda, Maryland this summer. Danny was accepted to begin Medical School at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) to eventually become an Army Doctor. Danny is an incredible young man, energetic and intelligent and compassionate and will make the Medical Profession proud as we in the Association surely are. Danny and Laura on their wedding day. Photo credit: Taylor Imes - Used with permission. This August, I will be attending my A/3/7 “Always Alpha” Reunion in Durango, Colorado. These are the men I actually served with in Vietnam. It is our biannual reunion. It is always a joy to be able to get together with old comrades-in-arms – a bond never to be broken. Those who served in war understand what this is all about. I want to leave you with a list of members who have died in the last year and that we have prayed for and included in our Memorial Service during the reunion in Columbus, Georgia: Robert E. Benge SFC, Co. A, Korea 14 May 2011 Edward C. Galvin CPT, Co. M, Korea 31 January 2011 Robert M. Klebart SFC, Co., L, Korea 27 September 2011 Edward W. Plaisted SGT, HHC, 7th IN, P/T 13 April 2011 Page 16 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 “Chaplain’s Corner” continued from pg. 11 Thomas D. Rush MAJ, AT & Co. F, WWII 1 September 2011 Robert W. Ryan CPL, Co. K, Korea 12 September 2011 Bernard Shapiro SGT, Co. L, WWII 17 August 2011 In addition to these former members we always remember all the soldiers of 2/7 and 3/7 who were killedin-action in Iraq: + Fallen OIF Soldiers + SFC Paul R. Smith, Medal of Honor, posthumously, 4 April 2003 B Company, 11th Engineer Battalion Attached with Task Force 2-7 Infantry Travis W. Anderson Kurtis D. K. Arcala Steven Bayow John Wayne Celske Darris J. Dawson Wesley R. Durbin David L. Giaimo Matthew Hance Jevon K. Jordan Samuel E. Kelsey Joshua J. Kynoch Stanley J. Lapinsky Manuel Lopez III Carl J. Morgain Micki Nixon Kyle P. Norris Jacob M. Pfister Ronald Phillips Jr. Nathan R. Raudenbush Wesley R. Riggs Kenny D. Rojas Tyler J. Smith Daniel Torres Kevin S. K. Wessel PFC, B/2-7 IN SGT, C/2-7 IN SSG, B/2-7 IN SGT, C/2-7 IN SSG, A/3-7 IN SGT, A/3-7 IN 1LT, D/2-7 IN SPC, HHC/3-7 IN SGT, C/3-7 IN SGT, E/3-7 IN SPC, B/2-7 IN CPL, B/3-7 IN CPL, D/3-7 IN SGT, Attached/2-7 IN SSG, D/3-7 IN, Iraq SPC, A/3-7 IN CPL, A/3-7 IN SSG, A/3-7 IN CPT, D/3-7 IN PFC, D/2-7 IN SPC, B/2-7 IN PFC, E/3-7 IN SGT, B/2-7 IN SPC, A/3-7 IN 13 May 2005 11 September 2005 4 February 2005 21 November 2003 14 September 2008 14 September 2008 12 August 2005 17 July 2004 29 March 2008 13 December 2007 1 October 2005 11 June 2005 12 April 2005 22 May 2005 13 May 2011 23 May 2008 19 April 2005 25 September 2008 20 February 2008 17 May 2005 29 October 2005 21 March 2008 4 February 2005 19 April 2005 May they rest in peace! Let’s close with the Cottonbaler prayer that Chaplain Etterbeck composed for us several years ago: Cottonbaler Prayer O Lord, We give thanks for freedom this day Help us to choose the Cottonbaler way Willing and Able to fight any foe; Anytime, Anywhere, Wherever we go. O God, Train us hard for the battle we face, Make our weapons Your Instruments of Grace. First to Fight--We fight to the end: For all we hold sacred and called to defend. COTTONBALERS BY GOD! Amen 7th Infantry Regiment Association I pray that you will enjoy your summer months and take some time to rest and for leisure and perhaps a little travelling. Have a great celebration on Independence Day – parades and fireworks and celebrate the great freedom we have all enjoyed through our military service. I call upon God to bring you all the blessings you deserve as children of our Creator. Cottonbalers, by God! Damn Fine Soldiers! Volens et Potens Father Phil Salois, M.S. Association Chaplain ♦ Page 17 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 3BN Commander’s Comments continued from pg. 12 pared Dragon to move into the Platoon Collective training phase. I want to congratulate 1SG Eddie Facyson for 16 months of exemplary performance as the Delta Company 1SG. He took responsibility of Delta Company on March 3rd, 2011 on a rainy day at JSS Camp Khalid in Iraq and relinquished responsibility on Tuesday May 29th, 2012 under the same weather! 1SG Facyson has been a dynamic leader who took care of his Soldiers and Officers alike. With the change, Dragon welcomes 1SG Mark Zimmerman, who has served as the 3-7 IN Operations Sergeant Major for the past few months. We wish Dragon 7 the best of luck as he prepares the men of Dragon for the next deployment. This will be my last message to you as Dragon 6 as I passed the guidon to CPT Marvin Robertson Jr. during my Change of Command. It has been a privilege and an honor to serve as a Cottonbaler for the last 34 months as both the Assistant S3 and Dragon 6. As always, we want to give thanks to all the support we always receive from our families, friends, and you fellow Cottonbalers! CPT Jason C. Dupuis F/3-7 Foxtrot Company Soldiers led the way during the Leadership Reaction Course on March 29, 2012. They overcame obstacles through teamwork, dedication, and innovation. Team-building training like the Leadership Reaction Course allowed Soldiers both old and new to the platoon to build strong bonds essential for continued success down the road. Maintenance Soldiers joined in a companywide effort during the Forager Company Field Training Exercise from April 23-25. Maintenance successfully established a Unit Maintenance Collection Point (UMCP) and sustained it throughout the duration of the company’s field training exercise. Maintenance performed excellent recovery training with the wrecker and continued to succeed by providing recovery support for Distribution Platoon’s convoy operations. The Distribution Platoon managed the Field Ammunition Supply Point (FASP) while simultaneously conducting convoy operations. 7th Infantry Regiment Association During the F/3-7 Company Field Training Exercise, Maintenance successfully established a Unit Maintenance Collection Point (UMCP) Foragers wrapped up the week in the field with a visit by the President of the United States on April 27th followed by the Family Readiness Group Fun Day in Glennville, Georgia on the 28th. Foxtrot Company Soldiers enjoyed the festivities, wonderful food, and the inspirational movie “Courageous.” Several of the new Foragers wrapped up the month of May with a successful qualification on their M4 rifles. Foxtrot Company looks forward to supporting the Platoon Live Fire Exercises in June and follow-on training in the upcoming months. ♦ B/3-7 Soldiers during training Page 18 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 Reunion 2012, Columbus, GA 31 May to 3 June, 2012: Photos continued on page 20 Sissy Jenson, Peggy and LTC Rich Cleveland at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) Guest Speaker LTG (Ret) John Le Moyne gave his outlook on the future of the Army (Photo by April Stull) Members and guests at the entrance to the National Infantry Museum 1LT Franklin, 2-7 IN, gives a briefing on what 2-7 has been doing and what they are scheduled to do this year (Photo by April Stull) Jim Glowczynski, Dan Davis and Robert Burns at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LTG (Ret) John Le Moyne with his Certificate designating him the Honoray Colonel of the Regiment (Photo by April Stull) BELOW: Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) Graduation Ceremony MAJ Howard, 3-7 IN, gives a briefing on what 3-7 has been doing and what they are scheduled to do this year (Photo by April Stull) 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 19 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler “Reunion 2012” continued from pg. 18 LEFT: Marshall and Margaret Moore at the regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LEFT: Albert DeWever and Fernand DeChamps, both from the Belgium Battalion, at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) Summer 2012 RIGHT: LTC Greg Bell, 3-7 IN Commander, and LTG (Ret) John Le Moyne at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LEFT: Joe and Jean Washart at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LEFT: John MacDonald and Joanne Schocklee at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) Louis DeClee, LTC Rich Cleveland, Rick Rhoades, Dave Jenson, LTC Greg Bell, 3-7 IN Commander, at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) 7th Infantry Regiment Association CSM Dillingham, 3-7 IN, with Albert DeWever, Fernand DeChamps, and Louis DeCleen, all from the Belgium Battalion, at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) Page 20 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 All four photos below: Members, Guests and Soldiers at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LEFT: Rick Rhoades and 1SG Lafferty, A/3-7 IN, at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) LEFT:LTG (Ret) John Le Moyne receiving a standing ovation on his surprise notification of being desiganted as the new Honorary Colonel of the Regiment (Photo by April Stull) LEFT: LTG(Ret) John Le Moyne and MAJ Howard, 3-7 IN at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) MAJ Howard, CPT Shields, CSM Dillingham, 1SG Farmer, CPT Dupuis, all from 3-7 IN at the Regimental Banquet (Photo by April Stull) 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 21 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 Infantry Squad Demonstration at Graduation Ceremony Ft. Benning Band entertaining the family and friends prior to the Inantry OSUT Graduation Ceremony View of the Columbus Marriott Hotel where the reunion was held Ft. Benning Band entertaining the family and friends prior to the Inantry OSUT Graduation ceremony SEVENTH INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION 60 Tipper Drive, Dryfork, WV 26263 Dues Billing Statement 2012 - 2013 Annual Memberships expired on 30 June 2012. If you have already paid these dues, please ignore this notice. Life Members and Honorary Members owe no annual dues, but are encouraged to contribute to the Association’s operating funds. Name: ________________________________ E-Mail Address, if applicable: _____________________________ Annual Dues: $ $20.00 Scholarship Fund: $ _________ Contribution toward operating expenses: $ _________ Total Enclosed: $ _________ Is address and telephone number correct? If not, check here [ ] and enter correct address and telephone number on reverse side. Please return this statement promptly with your check payable to the “7th Infantry Regiment Association” and mail to: Roland B. Merson, 60 Tipper Drive, Dryfork, WV 26263. Thanks for your support. Roland 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 22 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 7TH INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION FINANCIAL STATEMENT As of 31 May 2012 Opening Balance (as of 01/01/2012) $ 8,135.27 Income Donations for Operating Expenses Donations for Scholarship Fund Membership 2012 Reunion Total Income 805.00 550.00 140.00 2,400.00 $ 3,895.00 Expenses Cottonbaler Newsletter Postage 2012 Reunion Expenses Web Site Transfer to Scholarship Fund Total Expenses 2,134.98 20.22 1,255.00 109.75 550.00 $ 4,069.95 TH 7 INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION Closing Balance (as of 05/31/2012) $ 7,960.32 SCHOLARSHIPS PRESENTED Scholarship Fund Balance (as of 04/30/2012) FOR CHILDREN OF THE REGIMENT $100,751.56 As of 31 May 2012 7TH INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIPS PRESENTED TO CHILDREN OF THE REGIMENT As of 31 May 2012 Year Number of Recipients Total Amount 2003 3 $3,000 2004 1 $500 2005 2 $2,000 2006 5 $5,000 2007 5 $5,000 2008 6 $5,000 2009 4 $3,000 2010 4 $3,000 2011 5 $3,500 TOTAL 35 $30,000 Note: $2,500 approved by board for scholarships in 2012, but not yet awarded Note: $2,500 approved by board for scholarships in 2012, but not yet awarded 7th Infantry Regiment Association Page 23 Volume xxIII No. 3 The Cottonbaler Summer 2012 CAMPAIGN PARTICIPATION CREDIT War of 1812 Canada New Orleans Florida 1814 Louisiana 1815 Mexican War Monterey Vera Cruz Cerro Gordo Contreras Churubusco Molino del Rey Chapultepec Texas 1846 Civil War Fredericksburg Murfreesborough Chancellorsville Gettysburg Chickamauga Chattanooga Atlanta New Mexico 1861 New Mexico 1862 Kentucky 1862 Mississippi 1862 Tennessee 1862 Tennessee 1863 Georgia 1864 Indian Wars Creeks Seminoles Little Big Horn Nez Perces Utes Pine Ridge New Mexico 1860 Wyoming 1866 Montana 1872 War with Spain Santiago Philippine Insurrection Samar 1901 Samar 1902 World War I Aisne Champagne-Marne Aisne-Marne St. Mihiel Meuse-Argonne Champagne 1918 Ile de France 1918 World War II Algeria-French Morocco (with arrowhead) Tunisia Sicily (with arrowhead) Naples-Foggia Anzio (with arrowhead) Rome-Arno Southern France (with arrowhead) Rhineland Ardennes-Alsace Central Europe Summer 2012 Southwest Asia Defense of Saudi Arabia Liberation and Defense of Kuwait Korean War CCF Intervention First UN Counteroffensive CCF Spring Offensive UN Summer-Fall Offensive Second Korean Winter Korea, Summer-Fall 1952 Third Korean Winter Korea, Summer 1953 The 7Th InfanTry regImenT aSSocIaTIon roland B. merson, Secretary 60 Tipper Drive Dryfork, WV 26263 Change Service Requested Vietnam Counteroffensive, Phase II Counteroffensive, Phase III Tet Counteroffensive Counteroffensive, Phase IV Counteroffensive, Phase V Counteroffensive, Phase VI Tet 69/Counteroffensive Summer-Fall 1969 Winter-Spring 1970 Sanctuary Counteroffensive Counteroffensive, Phase VII Visit our website: www.cottonbalers.com NONPROFIT ORG. 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