The Strike First.

Newsletter of the U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion Houston May 2011

On the Stinger:
Meet Station Commanders and NCOs who excel Page 2, 12, 13 Future Soldier drops pounds, attends basic at 38 Page 5 Recruiters help Wounded Warrior receive selfpropelled chair Page 7 Schools link seniors to NHRA for Y.E.S. program Page 8 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo photos Page 17 Future Soldiers strut their stuff alongside Army Reserve aviation Page 19 Education News Page 21 Administrators from South and Beaumont Companies Page 22

On June 3, 2011, Lieutenant Colonel David Nguyen took over as Commander, U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion Houston. Handing Nguyen the battalion colors, signifying the assumption of command, is U.S. Armys 5th Recruiting Brigade Commander Colonel Christopher Himsl.
(Photo by John L. Thompson III. Additional photos on page 15.)

U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion Houston

Battalion Leadership Team Lt. Col. Michael Bottiglieri Houston Battalion Commander

Command Sgt. Maj. John Kessler Houston Battalion Command Sergeant Major

Station Commander of the Month January 2011

NCO of the Month January 2011

Sgt. 1st Class Reginald Gee and wife Bernice HOUSTON Klein U.S. Army Recruiting Station Commander Sergeant 1st Class Reginald Gee says armed with U.S. Army training and experience, and through his education and commitment to God, he was able to help a fellow Soldier and his family. Selected as Januarys Battalion Station Commander for the Month, Gee recalls this pivotal call for help. He and the Soldier were stationed in Huntsville, Texas. Gee was working as a recruiter with Specialist Jones, who was attached to the recruiting station because Houston area medical facilities met the requirements to care for the Soldiers special needs child. When the childs health took a turn for the worse, the Soldier turned to Gee for spiritual help. He called me one night when I was supposed to go to a company gathering and said he was at the hospital. Can you come here to pray for me and my child? Gee recalls the conversation. I told the company commander that I would not be going to the gathering because I needed to go to the hospital to pray for a Soldier and his child. Of course, his company commander granted his
Gee cont. on page 4 2

Sgt. Richard Disney HOUSTON This particular Disney may not have inspired a world-famous theme park, but if you sign on with him, he may take you for the ride of your life. With 27 months in Iraq as an infantryman, Sergeant Richard Disney is a Soldier with whom young men and women searching for a mixture of adventure and self-development can relate. Disney, who looks much younger than his 24 years, works as an Army Recruiter in the Katy Recruiting Station. Just completing his sixth year as a Soldier, his last two years of bookwork advanced him halfway to a bachelors degree. Following two deployments to Iraq, he was selected and trained to teach Soldiers how to operate unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly called drones. After completing his tour of duty as a recruiter, he hopes to fly drones or to teach this unique skill to others. What influences one to join the Army? With some, its family. Disneys father is an
Disney cont. on page 4

Army Values:
Loyalty Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. constitution, the Army, and other soldiers. Duty Fulfill your obligations. Accept responsibility for your own actions and those entrusted to your care. Respect Rely upon the golden rule. How we consider others reflects upon each of us, both personally and as a professional organization. Selfless Service Put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and your subordinates before your own. Honor Live up to all the Army values Importance of Character. Integrity Do what is right, legally and morally. Personal Courage Our ability to face fear, danger, or adversity, both physical and moral courage.

Note from the Editor:

By John L. Thompson III

It is good to be good neighbors: The US rushes to help tsunami victims in one country and earthquake victims in another country and flood victims in yet another country, but who comes forward to help out in the good old USA? Charity," after all, "begins at home. What comes to mind is a devastating swath of April tornados that brought death and destruction to a dozen states. Moreover, as this pen is put to paper, the death toll stands at 330 men, women and children. Entire towns in Georgia and Alabama, once teeming with life and people, completely leveled. A million people were without power for days. Thousands of neighbors, husbands, wives lost loved ones; lost everything. And in May, the mighty Mississippi River swelled to flood whole towns, displacing thousands; leaving most with no means of rebuilding their lives. Our response? We do nothing. There is no outcry to rush to the aid of our fellow Americans. And if you expect other countries to come to our aid, best to take off those rose colored glasses. We need to open our wallets, ALL of us, and donate to the American Red Cross. No matter the emergency, the Red Submission Requirements Cross is there. You dont have to worry the Red Cross will disappear in the middle of the night. Most of what you give is for Strike First. All submissions must be in elec- used for what it is meant. You can earmark where you want tronic format. Documents are to your donation to go. We need to roll up our respective sleeves and give blood. be written and submitted in a Microsoft Word document, dou- Do you have 20 minutes to save a life? How about six lives? ble spaced. All submitted phoDisasters make the need for blood a life and death circumtographs must be at least 300 stance. Every pint serves several. Once a disaster occurs, dpi in jpeg format. Subjects in blood supplies are compromised. Every injured person is at photos are to be identified by greater risk for his or her life. Your time will help! first name, middle initial if availAnother thing we can do is donate to organizations like the able, last name and proper rank if applicable. Narration as to Goodwill or The Salvation Army; everyone can give gently worn what action is occurring in phoclothing, appliances and furniture which may be the difference tographs is encouraged. Name to giving a person hope, or helping people rebuild their lives. of photographer is requested for You could be in a similar circumstance some day; you lose photo credit. Author of article everything. What would YOU do? will be identified by same inforWe help the world in time of crisis. The world is watching to mation as above. Editor retains the right to edit stories for consee if we will help when our own families, neighbors tent and to conform to and friends trust in someone to give a helping hand.
Associated Press print style.
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Gee cont. from page 2

Disney cont. from page 2

request. Over the years, others have had him minister to spiritual needs, including having Gee interpret and better understand the Bible. In the office however, Gee separates his military obligations from his pastoral duties, but sometimes he finds he is still maintaining values mirrored in both. With strong core values as his foundation, he supports and mentors Soldiers in the station. By helping them succeed, they help to hone his leadership skills. He said the value of discipline he learned through Army service set him on the path to self-improvement, and clarified his desire to enter the ministry. I wasnt disciplined before I joined the Army, Gee admitted. I was hard headed, running loose in the Houston streets. The Army changed me as far as discipline, integrity and loyalty. When they say be loyal to your chain-of-command, Im not going to do anything to put my chain-of-command in jeopardy. Gee is fascinated by the reaction when people learn he is both Soldier and a minister. Suddenly, they believe he has all the answers. But thats okay, said Gee, and it is common for parents and relatives of young men and women to bring them to talk with Gee about the Army and life choices. Gee grew up in Houston and his early memories include a life of poverty. He was adopted as an older child by a pastor and his wife. This change in his early life, he feels, gives him a closeness an affinity with teens at risk of going down the wrong path. He embraces helping them explore an Army career, if they qualify or other options. In the four years as a recruiter, Gee earned the Recruiter Ring and the Glen E. Morrell Award for Recruiting Excellence. For most of his career, including two deployments to Iraq, his job was to help save lives as a combat medic flying into hazardous situations aboard helicopters. In 18 months in Iraq, he racked up 70 critical care missions, earning seven Army Air Medals. Army Air Medals are presented to aviation personnel for merit or heroism in the line of duty. Gee said the missions showed him how fragile and how precious life is. That epiphany caused him to reflect on the values of the pastor and the pastors wife who raised him. If God is first in my life, I will be able to take care of my family and my job, Gee said. I give Him what I owe Him and He gives me the means to take care of my family and to be successful in my job.
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Air Force veteran. His maternal uncle and grandfather were Sailors and his paternal grandfather was a Soldier. He was always a good kid who did his chores and made his bed, but never did he dream of becoming a Soldierthat is until a desire for something different that encompassed his corny values caused him to take a second look. Tough living and working conditions in Iraq matured the young man. As a teen and a young Soldier in his first year, he said there were conditions where he may have grumbled, but said years of living in a combat area opened his eyes to what is important and what is not in life. When I came back everything seemed easier, Disney observed. I knew what I wanted to do; I developed a better way to focus (on goals) and improved on my selfdiscipline. Before then, I took everything for granted. Focus and self-discipline were traits that helped Disney obtain 60 college credits in the last two years. As a recruiter, his approach to finding prospects is low key, almost nonchalant. Proud of his uniform, it is common for him wear it while shopping. Once shy teaching classes in the past, has broadened his confidence, enabling him to open up to others, freely speaking to strangers at stores or at the mall. For him, most dialogs are often followed by a recruiting station appointment for longer discussions about the benefits of joining the Army. He loves to dispel myths on how the Army limits individuals in their personal growth; he knows better. And one of the best perks is the Armys stance on education. Hes yet to decide whether to continue an Army career or seek a job in the private sector after his recruiting stint. However, this is one Disney who does not envision a Mickey Mouse future.

Houston woman sheds 80 pounds, starts basic training at 38

Story and Photo by John L. Thompson III HOUSTON When odds were against her and life looked grim, Private 1st Class Margaret Maag never fully gave up her dream as she joined the Army at 37, losing 80 pounds to do it. Maag graduated high school in 1991, married and took a job in the banking business. In 2000, she became a stay at home mom until two years ago when she, her husband and children moved to Texas. She searched for work. None of the many banks she applied at took interest in her. What started as a suggestion caused her to make changes in her life. It was Maags husband David who said, Why dont you join the military. It is something you always wanted to do. At the time, Maag was 36 years old and weighed 250 pounds. After thinking about it, Margaret Maag said, Why not. My mother-in-law is a nurse practitioner and she said to me if you really want to do this I will help, Maag said. I said let me see if I can get the weight off first. That was in January 2010. In Sergeant First Class Leland Cannon worked with Private April, I went to the rodeo and the Army had a table there. I talked with them, but 1st Class Margaret Maag and her family to help her launch an improbable military career. Maag began her journey I dont think they thought I was serious toward Army enlistment two years ago. She took the oath because I only lost 40 pounds. of enlistment in December 2010 and departed for basic She was serious. Her next stop was training May 2011. (Photo by John L. Thompson III) the Bear Creek Recruiting Station where In mid-May, before Margaret Maag left for she met Sgt. 1st Class Leland Cannon. He basic training, the five-foot-8 1/2 inch tall Fuadvised her if she could continue to lose weight and show she was serious about join- ture Soldier weighed 171 pounds, down from ing the Army, he would be more than glad to 250 pounds 17 months ago. For serving as a Satellite Communications work with her. After 10 months of supervised diet and ex- Specialist, the Army provides healthcare for her, her diabetic husband and her children. ercise, Maag achieved military height and weight standards, enlisting during December Maag cont. on Page 6 2010.
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She plans to transfer the educational benefits she earns to her children. Maags husband, a former Navy Corpsman, is working toward a nursing degree. He will enter the clinical phase of his training once Maag completes her initial training and assigned to her first duty station. What did her family say when they learned Maag chose to become a Soldier? When my brother who is a sergeant in the Air Force found out he said he thought I was crazy, Maag said chuckling. But he did say for me to go for it as it was something I always wanted to do. I talked to my GodMother and she told me how proud she was of me. Her immediate family stepped up to the plate. When the subject turned to the physicality of being a Soldier, Maag said since she lost the weight she has more energy. Her children encourage her by exercising with her, doing sit-ups and push-ups. When it comes to running, she says it is no problem. She hits the track on a regular schedule. Then there is the age issue, which most Future Soldiers in the Bear Creek Recruiting Station are 18 to 20 years Maags junior, which Cannon said the difference is not a bad thing. For a lot of them, Private Maag gets them motivated, Cannon indicated. Sergeant Dobbs, one of our new recruiters, came in during one of our Future Soldier events and all the Future Soldiers were weighing in. She climbed on the scale and he told her, no maam you dont have to weigh in. And I told him you better leave my Future Soldier alone. He said Dobbs thought she a mother or related to a Future Soldier, not one of the Future Soldiers. Cannon said Maag motivates him. She is the reason Soldiers like him are in communities looking for motivated candidates to become Soldiers. Her determination and drive showed Future Soldiers if Private Maag can do it at her age, there is no reason Future Soldiers half her age cannot be successful. Cannon summed up Maags enlistment in a few words. She is joining truly for service of country,
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Cannon said. It is for the legacy of the Army, her community and her family. That spirit is hard to find. Some prospects say if they dont get a certain job or benefit they wont join. Nothing like that came out of her mouth. It is a beautiful thing. Maag said her family supported her weight reduction, encouraged her getting in shape and her decision to enlist in the Army. Maag may not be the youngest new Soldier in the Army, but with her motivation and selfdiscipline, Sgt. 1st Cannon said he bets she will be a sergeant in a few years.

Two years ago the 250 pounds Margaret Maag was looking for a job in the banking industry. A wife and mother, she and her husband moved to Texas from Louisiana in hopes of securing employment. Her road to Texas ultimately allowed her to realize a desire she had as a teen. She became a Soldier. (Photo provided by Margaret Maag)

Wounded Warrior gets gift of selfpropelled chair from inventive doctor

Story and Photos by John L. Thompson III

HOUSTON When retired physician Alan Ulert learned Wounded Warrior Army Sgt. Javier Negritis self-propelled wheelchair constantly broke down, the 98-yearold took his own self-propelled wheelchair and donated it to Negriti. Negriti, who served in Iraq, is wheelchair bound due to Traumatic Brain Injury and severe spinal cord injuries, and suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. A working dog named Cash assists Negriti in retrieving items in his home and helps him move in and out of bed and his chair. Because Negriti has lately been using a manually-propelled wheelchair, Cash used to do double-duty as sled dog, towing his master from Point A to Point B in the home. Having a new chair means the world to me, Negriti replied. My life depends on it. I can walk a little bit but I still have to be in a wheelchair; this new chair couldnt have come at a better time. Negriti said he is grateful to Dr. Ulert, as without the chair he couldn't be self-sufficient and enjoying the home he received through HelpingaHero.org. I commend you folks for thinking of us, retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Holland said. I have to tell you this new chair is like finding a diamond in the rough. Holland works closely with HelpingaHero.org. He and his wife Kim, a retired Army master sergeant, have made it their mission to help wounded warriors in the Houston area.
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For a three-week period Sgt. 1st Class Manaleto Clay, an Army Recruiter in Baybrook Recruiting Station worked with Michael Ward, a private investigator working on behalf of Dr. Ulert. With Clays assistance, Holland provide the name of Sgt. Negriti. Negriti only retains the use of one hand and one leg. Using a manual wheelchair fatigues him. Dr. Ulert invented a number of medical devices including a heart pump called the Ulert-UT Circular Heart." The left ventricular assist device focuses on the left ventricle, which does about 80 percent of the heart's work. According to Clay, donating a self-propelled chair with only a few hours of use is one way Ulert could recognize the sacrifices of those who sacrificed for their country.

(Above) Sergeant Javier Negriti sits in his new self-propelled wheel chair next to his manual chair at the U.S. Army Baybrook Recruiting Station. (Far Left) Sgt. 1st Class Manaleto Clay greets the young Wounded Warrior prior to Negriti being presented with his new mode of transportation. (Left) Negriti listens to the tale of how an area doctor provided a helping hand to make his life a bit easier.

Will Area Youth Become the Driving Force of Their Futures?

The Answer is a Resounding YES!
Story by John L. Thompson III

(Right) Teamwork is what makes the U.S. Army successful and these high school seniors experience what it means to work together as a team to accomplish an objective, i.e. mobbing through an obstacle course. (Photo by John L. Thompson III, Houston Recruiting Battalion)

(Below) Cedric Melcher, Automotive Instructor from Eisenhower Senior High School shows part of life is being physically fit easily surpassing 20 pull-ups as students watch. (Photo by John L. Thompson III, Houston Recruiting Battalion)

BAYTOWN, TEXAS The object of drag racing is to hurtle yourself in a car 1,000 feet down a track, as fast as you to finish first. But to get there safely, you have to have a plan. Twelve hundred high school teens experienced an Army-sponsored educational program, learning you cant be a winner in life unless you plan for the future. The Youth Education Services Program (YES) is a National Hot Rod Associations (NHRA) sponsored-effort and motorsports first and only full-time event dedicated to educational programming. YES provides high school students with real-world lessons about career options and positive goal setting. Y.E.S. cont Page 9
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(The Call cont. on page 7)

Staff Sergeant Ackerman talked about what prompted him to join the Army, the benefits he received and reasons why he continues to make the Army a career. Fast Jack Beckman, funny car driver and team member of top fuel racer Tony The Sarge Schumacher and member of the Don Schumacher Racing Team explains how the combination of physical fitness, preparation and determination are essential to achieve success on and off the track. (Photo by John L. Thompson III, Houston Recruiting Battalion)

Upon arriving at the Royal Purple Raceway in Baytown ,students examine a state-of-the-art fire truck belonging to the 463rd Engineer Detachment (Fire Fighters) and a mobile/mechanical workshop capable of supporting any type of vehicle repairs belonging to 1158th Aviation Regiment. Both are local U.S. Army Reserve units. From there, prospects had an opportunity to view and trek down the same path many Soldiers traverse every day: seeing what it is to be an integral member of a team. The first step in the Strength in Action Tour: a rolling exhibit designed to promote understanding of the Army, student teams maneuver across boards to get from one point to another without touching the ground with their feet or any item. After successfully maneuvering over the obstacle using the boards, competing groups next solved map questions as a team. The final leg of the competition consisted of push-ups with each persons legs resting on someone elses back. While waiting for the speaker portion of the program, several students were excited to fly in helicopter simulators. When students entered a building next to the track, they encountered two mentor Soldiers, different types of heroes, who provided a unique perspective about the U.S. Army. Fast Jack Beckman, funny car driver for Don Schumacher Racing, and Sgt.1st Class Jeffrey Ackerman, a highly decorated Soldier serving as a recruiter in The Woodlands, shared their life and philosophy with students. At 37, Beckman was diagnosed with cancer, which upon diagnosis, had already riddled his body. Doctors

said a massive amount of chemotherapy would either cure him or kill him. Beckman explains that discovering drag racing allowed him a positive attitude, despite his dire situation. I also taught full time at a drag racing school in Pomona. In other words, I had things that kept my mind off my illness and [allowed me to think] toward the future. Beckman credits proper diet and exercise as his bedrock keeping him from succumbing to the range of effects of chemotherapy. It was the never quit attitude that contributed to success in all aspects of his life, he said. Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Ackerman, assigned to the U.S. Army Recruiting Station in The Woodlands, served 18 years of service including serving in the war-torn streets of Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, and Haiti. Among his awards and honors are three Bronze Star Medals, one of which is embellished with the V for valor. While I have been on active duty, I have almost finished working on a bachelors degree at no cost to me, Ackerman marveled. When I retire from the military, I
Y.E.S. cont Page 10 9

(Airborne Cont. from Page 2)

(Left) Staff Sgt. Bowman provides students with insight on how to find a location on a map. Traversing an obstacle, reading a map and doing push-ups with feet suspended on the back of another team member were ways to show teamwork equals success. (Below) When it comes to working on vehicles the 1st Battalion,158th Aviation Regiment in the U.S. Army Reserve uses this portable mechanics garage with all the tools. (Photos by John L. Thompson III)

will go to work as a police officer in Houston. I have to get certified by the state and the Army will pay for me to be certified as a police officer. Another benefit Ackerman boasted the military will pay for his education. After leaving the Army he will be able to transfer some of those benefits to his children. It is a recent change and an attraction for men and women considering the costs of sending children to college. For the teachers accompanying students, speakers reinforced what teachers say and do everywhere in classrooms each day; teachers influence and motivate students as much as their parents. Cedric Melcher, automotive instructor from Eisenhower Senior High School, experienced a positive involvement with the YES program for the past six years. Teachers assist parents to provide the right tools to help teens plan for the future, he said. Think about it, Melcher said. if you were living and you never get a chance to look over the fence to see what else is out there. We have inner city kids. Some of these kids do not have any hope. We have to start from scratch just to get them motivated to want to work, to

come to class on time, and stay out of trouble. I teach them more than mechanics. I teach them a value system. For motivated teachers like Melcher, the YES Program validates that regardless of the road a student chooses be it an Army career path, school or civilian job, it takes discipline, motivation and the desire to breathe life into their futures. But first, you have to have a plan and a roadmap on how to get there.
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Longview Soldiers story encourages Army careers

LONGVIEW, TEXAS Like many Soldiers, Staff Sgt. Angel Villegas has a story to tell that inspires others to seek an Army career. Villegas joined the Army on September 11, at the beginning of his senior year of high school. His goal: support the war against global terrorism. In his years of service, he deployed twice to Iraq. His first deployment his mission began as one of surveillance and protection. He moved into the position of training the Iraqi Police Force. As a result of his experience, during Villegas second deployment he again trained Iraqi policemen. His total time in Iraq is 28 months. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, when Villegas found himself entering recruiting, he looked up his recruiter who was still in the 5th brigade. We initially didnt talk about recruiting, Villegas admitted. He told me he was very proud I made staff sergeant so quickly and he gave me some advice about recruiting: The dos and donts out in the field. The best advice he gave me was to get out into the community, get into the schools and stay motivated. In his eight months as a recruiter, he enlisted 12 Future Soldiers. To them he is their source of information about the Army and they rely upon him as leader and mentor. Through his years of service, he addressed many concerns the youth have about what daily life will be like when they become Soldiers. I tell them they need to work hard as Soldiers, Villegas commented. Everything is about how badly you want something like promotion or responsibility and how hard you want to work for it. Villegas said being a Soldier that not only is about your job and being a leader but it influences personal growth. An accomplished guitar player of 13 years, Villegas is completing an associated degree while in uniform. Villegas encourages Future Soldiers to earn a college degree as the Army pays the tuition while Soldiers better themselves. Like with his missions training Iraqi policemen, teaching Future Soldiers Army Values and how to apply them in their lives Villegas finds rewarding. He also stresses to Future Soldiers the importance of never giving up on what they want in life and working toward success in their personal and professional lives. For this Texan, being involved in the Longview community is his responsibility as a Soldier and a leader (NCO) and a contributing member of a community. The Strike First is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Army produced quarterly by the Houston Recruiting Battalion personnel under AR 360-1. Contents of the First Strike are not necessarily official views of or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army or the Houston Recruiting Battalion. Circulation: 1000. The First Strike welcomes editorial submissions but reserves the right to edit submitted material to ensure it complies with Army policy and Associated Press journalistic standards. All submitted copy should be typed and submitted prior to the 1st day of each calendar quarter unless otherwise arranged with the editor. Mailing address: Advertising and Public Affairs Office; U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion Houston, 1919 Smith Street, Suite 1529, Houston, TX 77002-1529, Telephone: 713-588-4059 Fax: 713-588-4041. Electronic mail submissions are encouraged: JOHN.THOMPSON@usarec.army.mil
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Commander.... Lt. Col. David Nguyen Chief A & PA William C. Grimes Editor....John L. Thompson III PA Admin Christa Thomas

Military Policeman books Houston youth into the Army

HOUSTON Sergeant Christopher Buys spent seven years as an airborne qualified Military Policeman and now in his new mission of Army Recruiting, he continues to put into play his arresting personality to find the right man or woman. As a military police officer, you are used to encountering the public on a daily basis in a variety of situations, Buys explained. Any communications barrier must be overcome when you are talking with a person you have never met before. Buys said when he approaches individuals he is prepared to listen to their life story. The art of the interview, according to Buys, is to have a goal in mind or to gain desired information. His recruiters goal is to learn about an individuals personality and motivation for seeking an Army career. To be effective you build rapport and find a common ground with that person he said. Buys experience overseas benefits him as a recruiter. He spent 15 months near Basra, Iraq training Iraqi police. He was excited of spending the time in another country, expanding his cultural horizons. He embraced the challenge of teaching Iraqi policemen about being proud of the job, pride in uniform, pride in safeguarding ones community. Now, after enlisting seven Soldiers in just two months, Buys teaches them what it means to be a Soldier. Since a drill sergeant has not educated Future Soldiers, Buys starts at ground level and starts building military bearing much as he did in Iraq. Future Soldiers do not understand Army Values and the Warrior Ethos yet, he said. So the challenge we have is to train them on those values as much as possible. Discipline. I find that motivating Future Soldiers is more challenging to me than motivating Soldiers and I have led Soldiers for more than six years. It is important to motivate Future Soldiers to go do physical training and learn skills before going to basic training. As a noncommissioned officer (NCO), Buys said he embraces the mission of enlisting and

training Future Soldiers and successfully passing along skills to Future Soldiers. Buys joined the Army at 18 after completing high school. His dream was to be a police officer but he knew he could not do that in the civilian sector until age 21. After a conversation with a friends father who served as an Army Special Forces Medic, he thought there is nothing more honorable than serving in the Army serving and being able to do that as a military police officer at 18. Buys said finding the right people to be Soldiers takes integrity. It is doing the right thing, whether it is a traffic stop or ensuring a candidates qualification. Integrity, one of seven Army Values, Buys said, once it is gone, you can never get it back. That is why it is so important.

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Ready or not

Storms are on the Horizon

ARE YOU PREPARED???

At a minimum have basic supplies. Keep supplies in an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate. Waterone gallon per person per day Foodnon-perishable easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation 2-week supply for home) Basic Supplies to include: Flashlight, extra batteries, battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio if possible), first aid kit, medications (7-day supply) and medical items, multi-purpose tool, sanitation and personal hygiene items copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information proof of address deed/lease to home passports birth certificates insurance policies), cell phone with chargers, family and emergency contact information, extra cash, emergency blanket, map (s) of the area Consider the needs of all family members and add supplies to your kit. Suggested items to help meet additional needs are: Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries glasses contact lenses syringes cane) baby supplies (bottles formula baby food diapers), games and activities for children, pet supplies (collar leash ID food carrier bowl), twoway radios, extra set of car keys and house keys, manual can opener.

Additional supplies to keep at home or in your kit based on the types of disasters common to your area: Whistle, N95 or surgical masks, matches, rain gear, towels, work gloves, tools/supplies for securing your home, extra clothing hat and sturdy shoes, plastic sheeting, duct tape, scissors, household liquid bleach, blankets or sleeping bags

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(Clockwise) A color guard of Houston Recruiting Battalion Soldiers move the colors in place for the battalion change of command. Sgt. 1st Class Leland Cannon leads the singing of the National Anthem. Lt. Col. Michael Bottiglieri (right) relinquishes the battalion colors to (left) 5th Brigade Commander Col. Christopher Himsl. Reserve Ambassador Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Larry Holland engages in conversation with 5th Recruiting Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Rhodie (center) and (left) USAREC Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Roberts. (Photos by John L. Thompson III)

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Master Recruiter Badge OKd for officers, NCOs

By Jim Tice FORT KNOX, Ky. A special skill badge has been approved for award to high-performing officers and noncommissioned officers assigned to Army Recruiting Command. Called the Master Recruiter Badge, the new decoration replaces the Gold Badge, Recruiter Ring and the Glenn E. Morrell Medallion, which have not been awarded since December. The badge is expected to be available for award and distribution by September. The Silver Recruiter Identification Badge continues to be awarded to Regular Army and Army Reserve soldiers upon graduation from recruiting school and assignment to Recruiting Command. Recruiters assigned to the Army National Guard continue to be eligible for a distinctive skill badge depicting a minuteman that is awarded in three levels basic, senior and master. Award of the new Master Recruiter Badge is based on meeting specific tasks, conditions and standards, rather than recruiting production. The new badge is seen as being consistent with USARECs transition to the Pinnacle team recruiting strategy, which focuses on the separate recruiting functions of prospecting, recruit administrative processing and training regimens for applicants in the Future Soldier Program, rather than individual missions and monthly production numbers. To qualify for the Master Recruiter Badge, Regular Army and Army Reserve soldiers must have served with USAREC for at least two years as detailed recruiters or officers, or hold enlisted MOS 79R (recruiter). Officers qualify, but only if they are involved in actual recruiting duties. Soldiers must pass the Critical Skills Assessment Test Stage 1 written evaluation, the live-fire examination and the Stage 2 hands-on evaluation, and be recommended by their leadership. Award policy also requires that soldiers pass the Live Fire Evaluation Stage 2 with a score of 100 percent. Rank-specific requirements include: Sergeants first class and below must score 85 percent or higher on skill levels 3 and 4 of the Stage 1 Critical Skills Assessment Test. First sergeants, master sergeants, sergeants major and officers must score 85 percent or higher on skill levels 3, 4 and 5 of the CSAT. Thoughts to recruit by There are two things a person should never be angry at, what they can help, and what they cannot. Plato, Ancient Greek Philosopher It is wise to direct your anger towards problems -- not people; to focus your energies on answers -- not excuses. William Arthur Ward, American author, editor, pastor and teacher Anger always comes from frustrated expectations Elliott Larson Anger is a great force. If you control it, it can be transmuted into a power which can move the whole world. William Shenstone, Scottish Writer Let us not look back in anger, nor forward in fear, but around in awareness. James Thurber, American Writer
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A day for the military at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 2011
Photos by John L. Thompson III

Sergeant 1st Class Rene Reyna enjoys the conversation and the company of his children in the hospitality tent set aside to welcome service men and women who attend the military appreciation day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Reyna serves as an Army Recruiter in North Companys Willowbrook Recruiting Station.

Captain David Jackson, commander of the 1st Cavalry Horse Detachment of the 1st Cavalry Division (left) confers with Sgt. 1st Class Filberto Fernandez (center) to determine the readiness of the Soldiers to perform in the afternoons demonstration.
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Crowd stirring renditions of the National Anthem and God Bless America were delivered form Staff Sgt. Tracey Labreque, a member of the U.S. Army Field Band based near Washington D.C. Lebreque would later repeat her performance of the National Anthem in the main venue where those attending would render her a three minute long standing ovation.
Photos by John L. Thompson III 17

Always a favorite with the crowd, the 1st Cavalry Horse Detachment of the 1st Cavalry Division was part of the grand procession during the evening rodeo program and earlier in the day put on a riding demonstration. During lunch at the hospitality tent of service men and women of all services, a few were cheered up by the NFL Houston Texans Cheerleaders.
Photos by John L. Thompson III

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Future Soldiers Compete, Learn and Build Esprit de Corps Photos by Bill Grimes
Teamwork is as much of the Army as Army Values and the Warrior Ethos. Houston area Future Soldiers took time in Conroe, Texas to engage in team building sports and to spend a few moments with the combat tested U.S. Army Reserve 1st Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment as they learned about equipment such as the Apache Attack helicopter and what it means to be a Soldier.

Fit no stereotypes. Don't chase the latest management fads. The situation dictates which approach best accomplishes the team's mission.
Colin Powell (Former Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff and U.S. Secretary of State)

Individual commitment to a group effort -- that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.
Vince Lombardi (American Football Coach

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If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.
Colin Powell (Former Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs and U.S. Secretary of State)

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.

Henry Ford (American industrialist)

Life's like a play; it's not the length but the excellence of the acting that matters
Seneca (Roman philosopher)

Photos by Bill Grimes

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Education Corner
Websters Dictionary defines education as the act or process of acquiring general knowledge, the development of powers for reasoning and judgment. Acumen is defined as the ability to judge well. Thus, there is a constant need for individuals to immerse themselves in information that prepares them to employ sound judgment, reasoning and keen insight. As these days become more tumultuous and uncertainty cascades across all ethnicities and socio-economic groups, the pursuit of an increasing level of education may provide the greatest safeguard during these times. The value of an education has been the mainstay of American culture since its inception. Horace Mann, the primary establisher of our public education system, stated, a human being is not attaining his full heights until he is educated. This notion was the cornerstone of my fathers educational philosophy. My father viewed education as a catalyst designed to propel one beyond individual or group perceptions; an idea that would establish personal pride and selfesteem. It was common to hear him tell me people can take everything away from you but your selfesteem and your intellect. Pursue and attain the highest education attainable.
Colbert cont. From Page 22

The Necessity for Education Acumen

Dr. Dywaine Robinson Battalion Education Services Specialist

It is this idea of pursuing and attaining the highest education possible that establishes my educational philosophy for all that, I am blessed to engage. Education is not how much you can regurgitate from some form of literature, but rather the ability to apply what you have learned in your life. A biblical proverb states it in this fashion: get knowledge, but in all of your getting, get an understanding. Pursue life lessons by being a lifelong learner in a variety of disciplines. Regardless to where you are in life today, seek to familiarize yourself with as much of this human existence as possible. Our children are in dire need of role models who treasure the educational process everyday people who do not simply hypothesize about the value of education, but rather see it truly as that bridge over despair and disdain. As a mentor, parent, recruiter or whatever descriptor you identify with, I encourage all to be that one who cherishes education and compels other to do likewise. Ponder this thought; the only thing that hangs in the balance is your future and the future of this great nation. Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself. ~ John Dewey
Simon Cont. From Page 22

make their transition to Army Recruiting easier. She sometimes copy edits reports to hone their communication skills between them and leaders. Often, she feels one of her most necessary skills is to provide a sympathetic ear. Its fun, Colbert said. You have to adjust yourself to the Soldier. If [he/she] is emotionally down over the phone, or not having a good day, you have to chipper them up. Thats what I try to do. The two Colberts work well in tandem, always professional on the job. Another Colbert who has driven unit moral up is 1st Sergeant Colbert. Jodie often hears him meet and coach Soldiers in his office. Behindclosed-door discussions often provide inspiration a person needs, leaving Soldiers in a better frame of mind than when they entered. Around the office, Jodie Colbert said she focuses on her duties, as does her husband. There is no discussion about work outside the office. In late May, when the last box is loaded aboard the moving truck and the last goodbye said to South Companys recruiters and commander, the two will roll down the highway to their next mission; a mission kept straight by an administrative assistant and a company first sergeant who worked in tandem as professionals during the day and in the evening returning to each other as husband and wife.
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and providing status on personnel evaluations. Constant change in the office requires Kathy to be flexible and keeps her intellectually challenged and engaged. Carroll, the fourth commander she has worked for, provides her with updated information about the Army and current recruiting operations. Simon is like a one-woman Welcome Wagon for Soldiers and their families relocating to Beaumont; she makes them comfortable in their new home while helping her company commander and first sergeant prepare Soldiers to help residents in and around Beaumont join the Army team.

Admin professional, Soldier husband move to new mission

HOUSTON As Jodie Colberts sixth year as an administrative assistant for the U.S. Army Recruiting South Company draws to a close, she and the companys first sergeant prepare to relocate, in fact, their destination is the same location. Its not a coincidence she and 1st Sgt. Charles Colbert share the last name of Colbert. When the workday ends, these two professionals assume their other role: that of husband and wife. Jodie said what motivates her to come to work every day is more personal than simply moving around paperwork. Soldiers and their families always have been a big influence in my life; Colbert explained, just to help them and be here for them is important. Life is tough because they dont have their families around. As a military spouse, Colbert experiences the challenges of being away from all the programs, medical care facilities and other benefits available on a military post. Her husband Charles served as a recruiter in the Tyler area before becoming the South Companys first sergeant. Jodie said she works side-by-side with Soldiers on documents that affect their health care, pay and housing status. She provides new Soldiers and families arriving in the U.S. Army South Recruiting Company area with information about health care, shopping locations and housing. Once theyre assigned and working, Colbert sends templates of documents and work-related materials to
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Admin Specialist welcomes Soldiers to her home town, their new duty station
BEAUMONT, TEXAS Kathy Simon knows Beaumont and the surrounding communities like the back of her hand. When new Army Recruiters and their families arrive, Kathy takes it upon herself to make them feel at home. Working as administrative assistant in the U.S. Army Recruiting Company in Beaumont for the past six years, Kathy provides commanders and first sergeants continuity and insight to area communities. Her connection to Soldiers makes her job feel special. I have a daughter who is 30 and I feel like a mother to all my new Soldiers coming into Beaumont Company, she said. They are such fine young men. They are always so respectful of me. Spending most of her life in Beaumont, the graduate of South Park High School takes it upon herself to suggest restaurants; good neighborhoods to find homes, reputable medical practices and well-attended houses of worship. Kathy works alongside Company Commander Capt. Charles Carroll and 1st Sgt. Jeffrey Warren taking care of administrative responsibilities, compiling reports for review,
Simon cont Page 21