August 25, 2006
Transcription
August 25, 2006
Inside: Bamberg residents mourn four Soldiers killed in Iraq. Page 16 Vol. 14, No. 16 August 25, 2006 Ansbach • Bamberg • Illesheim • Schweinfurt • Wuerzburg 12th CAB activates in USAG Ansbach ‘Tomorrow starts today and we are ready’ Wuerzburg freshman Chris Oaks and teammates suit up for the 2006 season. Page 23 New student vaccines Parents registering children in Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Europe for the 2006-2007 school year must meet additional immunization requirements. DoDDS-E has added three required inoculations: Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV4); Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine (TDAP – adolescent preparation); and Hepatitis A. An updated version of the immunization form is available on the Department of Defense Education Activity website at www.dodea.edu/communities/ medical.htm Parents should bear in mind the additional immunizations are age-specific and not all students will require them. Parents should contact their child’s school nurse for information and guidance. Lunch prices unchanged AAFES has announced that overseas school lunch prices for the 2006/2007 school year will remain at the current levels. Kindergarten through sixth-grade student meals cost $2.05, and seventh- through twelfthgrade meals are $2.20. Assigned by the military services as the School Feeding Authority for DoD Overseas Schools, AAFES provides USDA-approved meals to students on Army and Air Force installations throughout Europe and the Pacific. Last year, this program served 24,000 USDA lunches daily or 4.4 million lunch meals in 110 schools. AAFES has implemented Horizon “Fastlane” school payment system in the Pacific and at enduring locations in Europe. Parents or students can place a desired amount of money into their account and can set daily spending limits. Once an account is established, deposits can either be made at the school (during cafeteria hours) or at an AAFES cashier cage. At other locations, meal coupons remain available at the AAFES cashiers window. Students will continue to see popular menu items like pizza; however, some old standbys are being replaced with lower fat, whole grain varieties. Military families can review AAFES daily menus at www.aafes.com. Parents and students can also forward comments and suggestions by completing a survey on the website that is sent directly to the staff dietitian, Maj. Sarah Flash, or call her at (214) 312-2238 or DSN 312-967-2238. Calendar Community, cultural events of note Aug. 26 – Ansbach Showcase, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Katterbach Fitness Center. Aug. 28 – School begins! Aug. 30 – Military Idol competition, Abrams Entertainment Center, Schweinfurt, 7 p.m. Sept. 1–3 – Fall Harvest Bazaar, Finney Fitness Center, Schweinfurt Sept. 1–10 – Garden show and flower market, Hassfurt market square, near Schweinfurt Sept. 6 – Military Idol competition, Abrams Entertainment Center, Schweinfurt, 7 p.m. – IKEA Shopping Trip, Bamberg. Contact the CAC, 469-8659 Sept. 7 – Elida Reyna Latin music performance, Conn Community Club, Schweinfurt – Tour Under Bamberg. Contact the CAC, 469-8659 Sept. 9 – Art exhibit with Gabriele Müller at the CAC. Call 469-8659 Sept. 13 – BSCC Polish Pottery Bingo, Bamberg High School multi-purpose room. Card sales begin at 6 p.m., first game is 7 p.m. Sept. 14 – Girl Scout registration and activities, Ansbach Elementary School, 3 p.m. Info: [email protected] Sept. 15–16 – Würzburg Stadt Fest, call 0931-35367 for info. Sept. 15–17 – Basket market, Lichtenfels (about 25 miles north of Bamberg off interstate A73 toward Coburg). Visit www.korbmarkt.de or call 09571-7950. Sept. 17 – Theater festival opens new season at the Wuerzburg’s Mainfranken Theater. Starts at 7:30 p.m. by Jim Hughes tion is the 5-158th Aviation Regiment, and the 601st Aviation Support Battalion is now the 401st ASB. The 3-158th Aviation Regiment is also now headquartered in Katterbach. The 12th Combat Aviation Brigade made its debut Aug. 7 in cereMore than names have changed, however, as CH-47 Chinooks have monies on Katterbach Kaserne, becoming the latest manifestation of joined the AH-64 Apaches and Army transformation in EuUH-60 Blackhawks on the rope. flightline to create a more effiThe ceremony featured the cient aviation force, Edens said. casing of the 4th Aviation “The CAB, unlike its predeBrigade, 1st Infantry Division cessor, is a largely self-sufficolors and unfurling the blue cient, self-contained formation and gold 12th CAB flag. that can provide all aviation “Tomorrow starts today and support–combat, combat supwe are ready,” said Col. Timoport and combat service supthy J. Edens, 12th CAB comport–to whatever command mander. we’re attached to,” he said. “Today marks both an end With more than 3,000 Soland a beginning here in the diers, the 12th CAB is training Ansbach and Illesheim areas,” to become fully combat ready he said. “The proud colors of sometime next year, but getting the 4th Brigade, 1st Infantry to its current state was no easy Division are cased and will join task, Edens said. the rest of the Big Red One at “From Colonel Edens’ view, Ft. Riley, Kan. But unlike the it was smooth,” he said. “But if majority of Big Red One Solyou grab Private Edens, he diers and families, we have the probably had a rough go of it. luxury of remaining here in Jim Hughes This is a great effort by great Germany.” The activation ceremony Col. Timothy J. Edens and Command Sgt. Maj. Hector G. Marin young Americans and German kicked off a weeklong celebra- unfurl the colors of the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade Aug. 7 on nationals to make this happen. There are far more rewards to tion that included a military Katterbach Kaserne. this than detractors.” spouse day, sports competiThat fact was also recognized by Maj. Gen. Fred Robinson, 1st Artions, a chili cook-off, an Illesheim-to-Katterbach bike/run relay, and mored Division commander. a community fest. “I am honored to count you as ‘Iron’ Soldiers. This new unit will be The standup of the CAB also cements the union of Illesheim and the centerpiece of the Army,” Robinson said. Ansbach tactical aviation units into one brigade. Keeping with that line of thinking, Edens ended his ceremonial Under the 12th CAB and 1st Armored Division, the 2nd Squadron, comments with the unit’s new slogan, “Iron Soldiers, Wings of Vic6th U.S. Cavalry is now the 3rd Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment, tory.” 6-6 CAV is now 2-159th Aviation Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 1st AviaThe Point Dagger Brigade ready to deploy by Kimberly Gearhart The Point Schweinfurt Soldiers, bearing rifles and in full combat gear, moved in ordered ranks behind their unit colors at the 2nd Brigade Combat Team’s (2d BCT) departure ceremony on Conn Barracks Aug. 9. Dagger Brigade, as 2d BCT is also known, received orders to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Though their departure date has not been released for security reasons, the Soldiers stand ready. “Those great Soldiers are trained, they are ready and they are every bit as magnificent as they look,” said Col. J.B. Burton, brigade commander, as he surveyed the Soldiers arrayed on the Conn Barracks airfield. A large gap in the formation was eminently noticeable. “That gap is intentional,” Burton said. “It’s the spot that the Blue Spaders hold in this formation. It’s their turf.” The Blue Spaders are 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, who have already deployed to Kuwait as an advance party called Task Force Spader. 2d BCT is the last 1st Infantry Division unit remaining in Europe, and currently falls under the command and control of the 1st Armored Division (1st AD). Maj. Gen. Fred Robinson, the division commander, presided over the ceremony as the reviewing officer. “Although you wear the patch of our sister division, I still consider each and every one of you ‘Iron Soldiers,’” Robinson said, referring to “Old Ironsides,” that graces the 1st AD patch. Families and community members came out for the ceremony, prepared to support the Soldiers through their deployment. “It’s different here than in the States. Here, you’re closer to the action, more involved. You can’t be isolated,” said Diana Choudhri, whose husband, Command Sgt. Maj. Israr Choudhri will deploy with 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment. “The support of Dagger Brigade families and friends is an incredible asset to this formation. Your presence here today honors us,” Burton said. Their training complete and ceremonies behind them, Dagger Brigade Soldiers stand ready to deploy. “No mission too difficult, no sacrifice too great. Duty First!” Burton said at the ceremony’s end. Kimberly Gearhart A booming cannonade of artillery fire honors Schweinfurt’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team during Aug. 9 departure ceremonies. 2 Team of Teams! The Point, August 25, 2006 Have you heard the latest news? There is so much buzz on the streets about what’s going to happen to Leighton Barracks and other Wuerzburg installations that I thought I’d better take a few minutes to address them. Have you heard the latest rumors? How about the one that a Special Forces unit is looking to relocate to Leighton Barracks? Or how about the one that Leighton Barracks has become “first alternate” to become the future home of USAREUR head- quarters should anything go wrong with its planned move to Wiesbaden? Did you hear that the Europe Regional Medical Command is moving into the former Wuerzburg hospital? The truth is none of these statements have any validity. They’re just rumors. As I hear myself dispelling many of your hopes for a continued Army presence in Wuerzburg, let me add this: There is no projected timeline for the closure of Leighton Barracks. But, to use a cliché, the writing is on the wall. Leighton Barracks has not been identified as an enduring location for the U.S. Army in Europe. Many changes are taking place as the Army in Europe continues to transform. In October, U.S. Army Garrison Franconia will case its colors and those of us remaining here will become members of the European Transition Group (ETG). The day-to-day garrison operations will be performed by USAG Schweinfurt. Area garrisons – Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt – will later next year become direct reporting units to the Installation Management Agency-Europe, relieving USAG Franconia of that role. I know rumors will continue to flourish. They always do during periods of change like we are undergoing. Thumbs Thumbs up to Stefan Wenner who helped me after I was stung by a bee and had an allergic reaction. After being stung I got dizzy and started blacking out. Mr. Wenner, who was on duty, sprang into action. He laid me on the floor, got me ice for my hand and water to drink, then called the ambulance, fire department and military police. He also tried to calm me down which was not an easy task. Thanks also to Staff Sgt. Newman and Anna Engel from the Harvey Military Police Station and the Harvey Fire Department. Thank all of you for comforting me in this scary situation. Sgt. 1st Class Vera McKenzie, Wuerzburg ❋ ❋ ❋ “Thumbs” is about people who do a good job. It’s also about people who need to be more considerate. It is not about institutions, units, agencies or situations that could be subject to legal action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Submissions must be brief and include the writer’s name and telephone number, and must include the first and last name of the person(s) being recognized. The identity of the submitter will be published along with the comments. Send comments to “Thumbs”, The Point; USAG Franconia PAO; Unit 26622; APO AE 09244-6622. Or bring them to room 216, building 208, Faulenberg Kaserne, Wuerzburg. Phonein submissions are not accepted. Capt. Mike Gourgues, HHC, 2159th Aviation Regiment, Stork Barracks, Illesheim “It hasn’t affected me at all. It just makes me cringe a little bit when I fill up at the pump.” Don’t believe everything you hear on the street. I assure you that you will be informed of all impending changes that affect you and your families as soon as they are available. Team of Teams! RUSSEL D. SANTALA Colonel, Air Defense Artillery U.S. Army Garrison, Franconia, Commander Who still reads newspapers anyway? Commentary by Roger Teel The Point One of the pioneers of Army public affairs recently reported that he was heading to pasture. Gary G. Beylickjian, a retired sergeant major, a veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam, and a charter member of Army Public Affair’s Hall of Fame, announced this summer he was resigning from his post as the dean of Army newspapers. In an Army career that spanned more than 50 years, he was the one tuning fork that newspaper editors and Army journalists could always rely on. Former chief of Army public affairs Maj. Gen. Robert Solomon once said Beylickjian had “single-handedly changed the face of Army newspapers.” Beylickjian created and produced a monthly professional journal called Post 30 expressly for Army print journalists. In it he addressed every aspect of Army journalism, from common grammatical errors and poorly worded headlines to instilling professional and ethical values and inspiring Army writers to address tough, contemporary issues. His aim was always to help Soldier/journalists better communicate with their readers. “Always think of the reader first,” Beylickjian would say. He also knew the importance of running a Soldier’s picture; the morale boost it provided the individual and the credibility it added to the publication. Beylickjian informally rated Army newspapers in Post 30, and gave by-name recognition to journalists who deserved it. He also sent newspaper critiques directly to editors in the field. I received my first in 1974, when Beylickjian was still on active duty and I was a fledging, wet-behind-the-ears Army journalist (he would chastise me for using such a clichéd expression). He would also phone editors and give them an earful of unsolicited advice whenever he had something to say. While Beylickjian’s retirement may seem like “no news” for many readers, what you don’t know is that today’s Army journalists would not be where they are without having had his tutelage, mentorship and counsel. Every Soldier and civilian who’s spent more than 20 minutes in Army public affairs has been touched by the profound dedication and professionalism of Gary Beylickjian. He will be sorely missed by many of us. I mention this because this newspaper, The Point, is apparently on its last legs. The Army’s transformation is realigning communities in Europe and the Bavarian News, published by USAG Grafenwoehr, will soon serve readers in Ansbach, Illesheim, Schweinfurt and Bamberg. As I look at the plaques and awards this newspaper has earned over the years, I sense the ghosts of journalists who have come and gone. Many of them still stay in touch by reading The Point online. Beylickjian And there’s the rub – the real enemy of newspapers – the Internet. Commercial newspapers are financially challenged because they don’t sell nearly as many copies as they once did, and most have moved on to electronic publications. With so much information available in cyberspace, why do we continue to publish community newspapers? There are several viable reasons. First, a freshly printed newspaper is alive. It is vibrant with new material. Second, you never know what’s in a newspaper until you look inside. And, third, you can take it wherever you go, like home to share with your family and friends. The Point I’m making, and if I learned anything from my longtime association with Gary Beylickjian, is that Army newspapers are living, breathing documents that invigorate and entertain readers with news and features that they need and want. How has the cost of gas affected your driving practices? Mary C. Owens, CYS administrative assistant, Bamberg “I still have to go where I am going and I live off post, so I don’t have a choice. Besides, as long as we are in Europe, there are so many opportunities and things to see that I think it’s worth it.” Sgt. Michael Romero, Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, Schweinfurt. Bennie Howse, Equal Employment Opportunity manager, Wuerzburg Michelle Miller, Yellow Ribbon Room Coordinator, Stork Barracks, Illesheim “I just drive to work and back, and we just live over in Askren Manor. If we go anywhere further, we rent a car.” “I’ve cut down on driving and utilize public transportation more.” “It really doesn’t affect me because I appreciate the AAFES gas prices compared to what the Germans have to pay.” Ansbach • Bad Kissingen • Bamberg • Giebelstadt • Illesheim • Kitzingen • Schweinfurt • Wuerzburg Producer: MILCOM Advertising Agency Roswitha Lehner Zeilaeckerstrasse 35 · 92637 Weiden Telefax 0961-67050-32 Internet: As we discontinue USAG Franconia and implement the ETG, we are tasked, first and foremost, to maintain quality support to Soldiers, civilians and family members during the force structure and basing changes. I am very proud of the hard work that our garrison employees have accomplished to date and remain confident that Franconia will continue to be a great place to live and serve for Soldiers and their families as we continue the transformation process. What’s The Point? Thumbs up to EVERYONE who went out of their way to assist in this year’s Vacation Bible School. The behind the scenes people make this program such a success for the children of our community. Particular gratitude goes to “Doc” Golliday and his staff from Outdoor Recreation for their efforts to supply tables and benches, and to Dennis Sullivan from S&K sales for his generosity in donating drinks and foods to the children. Great appreciation is also extended to Liz Herms and the staff of the commissary, the PX sales people, and the Leighton Chapel staff who graciously endured the noisy preparation before, during and after VBS. Thank you all for supporting the community’s largest outreach program. Pat Wiedemer, Wuerzburg VBS Director Street talk: Rest assured that we will continue to keep the community and the garrison workforce informed of future changes in our area. www.milcom.de Free classifieds 0931-2964397 · Fax The Point 0931-2964626 Photos by The Point staff Spc. Joseph Brents, 240th Quartermaster, Bamberg “I guess. I have not really noticed the rising gas prices. It doesn’t affect me, because I have a steady income and even if they go up further, I would still take the car.” THE POINT is an authorized unofficial Army newspaper, published every two weeks under provisions of AR 360-1, for members of U.S. Army Garrisons Ansbach, Bamberg, Schweinfurt and Franconia. A commercial enterprise, THE POINT is printed by MILCOM Advertising Agency, a private firm in no way connected with the United States Government or Department of Defense. The contents of THE POINT do not necessarily reflect the official views or endorsement of the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Army. The appearance of advertising, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense. Everything advertised in THE POINT shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit characteristic of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is provided, prepared and edited by the Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Army Garrison Franconia. Editorial offices are located in building 208, Faulenberg Kaserne, Wuerzburg, Germany, telephone DSN 351-4564 or CIV 0931-2964564. Mailing address: Editor – THE POINT, USAG Franconia PAO, Unit 26622, APO AE 09244-6622. By e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Circulation is 12,000 copies per issue. Staff Sgt. Elliot Bingerman, HHT, 9th Engineer Battalion, Schweinfurt. Ward Nichols, strategic planning and integrations officer, Bamberg “Honestly it hasn’t affected me too much, because I own a Ford Focus. I’ll be looking into buying a hybrid rather than an SUV or truck in the future, though.” “This is an incentive for me to ride my bike to and from work. And indeed, I have even started to do so for a couple of months now.” Col. Russel D. Santala Donald Klinger Commander Public Affairs Officer Roger Teel Scott Rouch Editor Assistant Editor USAG Franconia – Building 208, Faulenberg Kaserne, 351-4749 or 0931-296-4749 Command Information Officer ................................................................. Larry Reilly Journalist ................................................................................................... USAG Ansbach – Building 5257, Barton Barracks, 468-7649 or 0981-183-649 Command Information Officer ................................................................. Jim Hughes Volunteer Journalist.................................................................................. Emily Gourgues USAG Bamberg – Building 7089, Warner Barracks, 469-7581 or 0951-300-7581 Command Information Officer ................................................................. Cheryl Boujnida USAG Schweinfurt – Building 354-6381, CIV 09721-96-6381) Command Information Officer ................................................................. Mark Heeter Journalist ................................................................................................... Kimberly Gearhart Focal Points The Point, August 25, 2006 3 Who ya gonna call? Stress Busters by Scott Rouch The Point USAG Franconia teens relaxed at the 2006 Army Community Service Teen Stress Buster Breakout at the Cantigny Club Aug. 4. The event also marked the end to the summer hire work program. In addition to the popular karaoke and games, including the tug of war, three-legged race and egg toss, the ACS staff held seminars designed to teach teens how to find peaceful solutions and some relaxation exercises. Tables staffed by various agencies offered information on local programs. Represented were Alcohol and Substance and Counseling Service, the Wuerzburg Education Center, and units from the Wuerzburg Medical Activity. Scott Rouch (3) Josh Simpson, Patrick Mooney, Shaun Simpson, Mike Kolenda and Heath McKay tug their way to victory. Jenn Holmes, Stephanie Mendez, winner Tamika Caldwell, Jasmine Tipton and Peter Trevino see who can be first to blow the whistle. Andrew Clidas cracks under pressure during the egg toss. Storck people ‘party hearty’ at block party by Emily Gourgues The Point Residents establish physical dominance during the tug-of-war contest. A static AH-64 Apache helicopter display drew a lot of attention. Emily Gourgues (3) People in Illesheim got together Aug. 19 for a day of family fun, making friends and feasting at the annual Storck Barracks block party. “The block party is a chance for people to get together and have fun,” said Sgt. 1st Class James Beck of the community’s area support team. A number of organizations – Girl Scouts, education center, the Illesheim Spouses’ and Civilians’ Club – set up booths and passed out information about themselves. A static helicopter display, face painting, raffles and games were the biggest hits. Beck said about 400 people attended. For those who missed the block party and want information about Illesheim organizations, contact the AST at 467-4515 or 09841-83515. Ryan and Michael Mitchell and others funneled their energies into water games at the block party. 6 The Point, August 25, 2006 Cav spurs its leaders, preserves tradition by Kimberly Gearhart sion,” Crawford said. The Point Spur candidates were put through the paces beginning Aug. 17 with an early morning Army Physical Fitness Test, followed by a written evaluation, and tests of physical endurance, marksmanship, and reconnaissance skills. Schweinfurt’s U.S. Cavalry unit has survived a year of change. The formerly mechanized 1st Squadron, 4th U.S. Cavalry traded out their tanks and Bradleys for jump wings to become a light airborne reconnaissance unit – the 1st Squadron, 91st U.S. Cavalry. But the more things change, the more they stay the same. And in the U.S. Cavalry, tradition is paramount. The annual spur ride is part of that grand cavalry theme. “It’s all about troopers on their horses, in Stetsons and spurs,” said Staff Sgt. Zachary Crawford, who for the past six years has been a scout with the Schweinfurt cavalry. Stetsons abound at any cavalry function, but spurs aren’t as numerous. Spurs must be earned, and a trooper must show mastery of the skills that make him cavalry to earn them. Staff Sgt. Mark Linden The purpose of a spur ride is to certify that new leaders, non-commissioned officers and above, understand, assess, and react in high stress situations, and draw on their skills as cavalry troopers. A weary Capt. Peter Gilbert, escorted by his unit guidon bearer, Pfc. Christopher McLeod, gives the thumbs-up as he trudges through the last leg of the spur ride Aug. 18 in Schweinfurt. “This ride focuses on the dismounted aspect of the cavalry. We are on the light side of the house now, and they will have to focus on the light reconnaissance mis- Army launches podcasts The Army has launched two new podcasts: “Army Today” and “Soldiers’ Forum.” “Army Today” is a daily, two-minute audio-visual feature produced by Soldiers Radio and Television. “Soldiers’ Forum” is a weekly product through which Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth Preston addresses issues concerning enlisted Soldiers. “This is a great way to keep Soldiers in the U.S., and those deployed to some 120 countries, informed on issues affecting them,” Preston said. “So far, we’ve produced spots on motorcycle safety, the BOSS program and the Wounded Warrior Program.” Podcasts can be viewed on the user’s computer, or downloaded to a portable media player such as an iPod, MP3 or cell phone capable of storing and playing audio/video media. To download podcasts users must have RSS-recognition (Real Simple Syndication) software on their computers. Free podcasting software includes: iTunes at www.itunes.com, Juice at juicereceiver. sourceforge.net, Happy Fish at thirstycrow.net/happyfish. After installing RSS software, Soldiers can subscribe to Army podcasts at www.army.mil/rss. Kimberly Gearhart Idols in Schweinfurt Sgt. Christian Thomas performs during the second round of competition for the 2nd annual Military Idol competition at Abrams Entertainment Center August 16. Sixty installations worldwide hold similar competitions, the winner earning a cash prize and a shot at the finals in the U.S. Thomas, from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment, didnʼt make the cut, but the show goes on. The next competition is Aug. 30. The ride lasted through the night and into the next day, ending with a ruck march to the finish line on Conn Barracks. After two days of physical hardship, the last few miles of the march are the toughest. Candidates, moving in teams, keep each other going. Pfc. Christopher McLeod, guidon bearer for the Forward Support Troop, heard tales of woe that his new commander, Capt. Peter Gilbert, was having a rough time on the march, and asked to be taken to him, guidon and all. “Everyone was talking about how he was smoked and tired. I wanted to show him the kind of support we show everyone. He’s our commander,” McLeod said. McLeod walked with Gilbert for the last six miles of the march, an extra bit of support that led to a celebration with the rest of the FST at the finish line. “We’ve changed the way we fight,” said Crawford, “but we haven’t changed the way we work – together as a team.” 17th Signal Battalion cases colors by Scott Rouch The Point The 17th Signal Battalion ended its 13-year run in Kitzingen Aug. 17 when it officially inactivated in a ceremony in the Larson Fitness Center. The unit, initially activated in Missouri in 1942, had as many as 644 Soldiers when it returned to Kitzingen from Operation Iraqi Freedom III in January 2006. The 40 or so remaining members stood tall as Lt. Col. Glenn Kennedy, battalion commander, and 1st Sgt. Enesi Mulitauaopele, acting command sergeant major, cased the colors. Kennedy paid tribute to the selfless service of those who volunteered to remain behind to see the unit through to the end and talked about what they stood for. “The Soldiers you see before you are just a small representation of what was the 17th Signal Battalion,” Kennedy said. “They represent the battalion as it was, and it was truly the best there was. I’m eternally proud of the accomplishments of this great organization and will forever cherish the memories of our service together.” In recent years, the battalion participated in Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Deny Flight, Provide Hope, Joint Endeavor, Enduring Freedom and deployed three times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Scott Rouch Battalion commander Lt. Col. Glenn Kennedy and 1st Sgt. Enesi Mulitauaopele case the 17th Signal Battalion colors. Prevent pollution ‘The good, the bad and the idling…’ by Barb van der Smissen Pollution Prevention Manager USAG Franconia Ozone is a gas that occurs both in the earth’s upper atmosphere and at ground level. Ozone can be ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for your health and the environment, depending on its location. The ‘good’ ozone layer extends upward from about 6 to 30 miles above the earth’s surface. It protects life on earth from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. At ground level ozone is an air pollutant that is harmful to breathe and damages crops and other vegetation. The ‘bad’ ozone at ground level forms indirectly when other air pollutants from vehicles, paints and solvents, unburned fuel, and industrial sources ‘bake’ in hot, sunny weather. Unhealthy ground level ozone concentrations can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including coughing, throat irritation, shortness of breath, chest pain, and decreased lung function. Because ozone forms in hot weather, anyone spending time outdoors may be affected, particularly children, outdoor workers, and people who exercise. “Bad’ ozone also damages vegetation and ecosystems. It leads to reduced agricultural crop and commercial forest yields. It also damages the foliage of trees and other plants, affecting the landscape of cities and countryside. There are a variety of ways people can contribute to reducing the ‘bad’ ozone during ozone season (May – September): • Avoid excessive idling and ‘jackrabbit’ starts. Turn your engine off when idling for more than 30 seconds. • Take transit or share a ride. If you must drive, try to combine your trips. • Postpone refueling until evening and don’t ‘top off’ the tank. • Postpone using gas powered yard equipment until late afternoon or evening hours. • Barbecue without using starter fluid. • Use water-based paint, instead of oil based, when painting. Scott Rouch Pollutants from vehicles “bake” in hot weather, creating bad ozone at ground level that contributes to a number of health problems and concerns. 10 U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach (Illesheim, Katterbach) The Point, August 25, 2006 Jennifer Smith and another spouse compete in the low crawl during the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade’s Spouses Combat Day Aug. 9. Jim Hughes (2) Down and dirty Spouses combat challenges as they become Soldiers for a day by Emily Gourgues The Point August 9th started out as a fairly routine day for a Soldier. I woke up with the sun, made coffee, got dressed in the dark, loaded my Kevlar and rucksack in the car, and kissed my stillsleeping spouse goodbye. A familiar scenario except for one minor detail – I’m not a Soldier! I took part in the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade’s Spouses Combat Day as part of Griffin Rally, a weeklong celebration for the activation of the new aviation unit in USAG Ansbach. About 80 fellow military spouses joined me at Urlas Training Area near Katterbach for the one-day experience of being a Soldier. After arriving and meeting my four teammates, we joined 15 other randomly put together teams with spouses from Katterbach and Illesheim. Our team connected quickly, quelling each other’s nerves and commiserating about the prevalence of rabbit poop in the area. We named ourselves SCARE, an acronym of our names; Sarah Tipple, Claudia Perez and Amy Luekenga of Katterbach, and Rebecca Lara and me, Emily Gourgues, of Illesheim. The brigade’s Sgt. Phillip Paniagua prepared us for the day ahead. “Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to gather your teammates and work on strategies to eliminate the threat by overcoming all obstacles the enemy may throw at you,” he said. Each team was handed a scorecard that listed these obstacles with their designated point value. We used the buddy system to get our faces “cammo’d up” and then we were off to a trivia challenge where teams faced off for points and bragging rights. A Soldier fired off questions, such as: “What does AFTB stand for?” “What’s the Brigade’s motto?” “What year did the 12th Nuernberg hosts fests, history by Rabia Nombamba The Point Whether it’s a good time in a party atmosphere or some cultural history that you’re looking for, Nuernberg is the place. It’s again time for Nuernberg’s annual Herbstfest at the Volksfesplatz, Dutzendteich. The fall fair is set up at the Festplatz now through Sept. 10. Every year carnival rides, vendor booths, a huge beer tent, live entertainment and a variety of food and beverages are offered at the fest. Wednesdays are family days with rides offered at half price. The fest is open Mon, Tue and Thu from 2 to 11 p.m., Wed from 1 to 11 p.m., Fri and Sat from 2 p.m. to midnight and Sun from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. If it’s history you’re looking for, you might want to head to the former house of Albrecht Duerer, a famous German Renaissance artist from 1471-1528. His house can be visited in Nuernberg at Albrecht-Duerer-Strasse 39. To recognize his contributions to the German renaissance, the city of Nuernberg converted the house into a museum honoring Duerer’s life and works. Telling the tale of Duerer’s professional and private life are displays of his artistic career and live demonstrations as well. To help visitors appreciate the 15th century artist’s work, a room is set up where the old techniques he used are demonstrated. As a special treat, an actress portraying Agnes Duerer, the artist’s wife, gives guided tours of the residence. Wearing a bonnet typical of the 15th century and with her key chain always in hand, Frau Duerer tells her husband’s story and also gives insight into her everyday worries and dealings. Tours by Frau Duerer are offered in English every Saturday at 2 p.m. and cost €7 per person. Audio tours in English, German, French, Italian and Japanese are also available throughout the week. For more information, call the museum at 0911-231-2568. Aviation Brigade form?” Teams did their best to answer first. Then we got physical. A muddy low and high crawl relay race got our sweat flowing. After a litter carry obstacle where we took turns carrying each other on a stretcher, we road marched to our final destination, yelling cadences and pumping each other up for our imminent and painful doom – paintball. We competed against another team in a game of capture the flag, and managed to complete the task unscathed. But as we watched other teams, we realized not all were quite as lucky. Asked what she thought about the day, Novisha Rivera said one word – “Motrin.” As events drew to a close, we could see that a transformation had taken place. In the morning everyone had been nice and genteel. But at the end, competitive beasts from within had been released, most evident dur- Emily Gourgues, Claudia Perez, Rebecca Lara, Sarah Tipple and Amy ing paintball where spouses became Luekenga, calling themselves SCARE, were pumped after capturing their muddy, gun-wielding, smack-talking assas- opponent’s flag in the paintball competition. sins. points out of a possible 1,000, were the Princesses of Power with That enthusiasm was exactly what event organizers wanted, team members LeeAnn Swartz, Betsey Brannen, Amber Chrissaid Cassie Cruz, family readiness support assistant. tensen, Melinda Giordano and Clairissa Mitchell. Leslie Edens agreed, adding that mixing team members Other awards included: most team spirit – the Hell Cats, most helped bring Ansbach and Illesheim communities closer. competitive and the Picasso award – the Sadistic Sisters, most And we, the spouses, gained an appreciation for what our Solsportsmanship – the Fly Girls, best team effort – the Dixie Troop, diers go through. We worked together as a team, built new friendEinstein award for trivia – 12th CAB, the pigpen award – Marina ships and had a great time. Ginos, and the best team name was SWAT: Soldiers Wives All After careful calculations, winning teams were announced the Tactical. following day in Katterbach. In first place, with a score of 940 Girl Scout makes artistic ‘state’ment by Emily Gourgues The Point An Illesheim teen was recently honored by the Girl Scouts for a community service project she completed this summer at her community’s elementary school. Lindsey Blohm-Kelly, 13, from Troop 132 in Illesheim, received the Silver Award for Community Service Aug. 2 for having painted a large, colorful mural of the United States on the school’s playground. The mural is about 20 feet wide and each state is marked with its abbreviation. It took four weeks to complete in the sweltering July heat, Blohm-Kelly said. With the help of an encyclopedia, the teen drew the mural in chalk and then went back over it in paint. She admitted Texas was especially challenging to Lindsey Blohm-Kelly, 13, sits replicate, as were the an- Illesheim Elementary School. gles of Maine and Michigan. But her artistic talent toppled the challenges. “I hope everyone enjoys it,” Blohm-Kelly said. “I thought it would be a fun and easy way for kids to learn about the U.S., and two of my favorite subjects are geography and art.” Angela Smith, overseas committee chairperson for the Girl Scouts, said the project, “will help fourth-graders, especially, because they have to learn the states and capitals” in their studies. The Silver Award is an exceptional honor, Smith said, as it is only given to a Girl Scout who completes a minimum of 60 hours of community service. “She had to come up with the idea herself, how to do it, how to execute it and how it would benefit the community,” Smith added. Blohm-Kelly is no stranger to volunteering and serving her community. She is described as extremely active in her troop and has participated in many projects, including book drives, clothing drives, and volunteering at the Kinderheim and Fisher House, said Jean Kelly, her mother and troop leader. “If she continues her community service she will be eligible for the Gold Award one day,” Kelly said. Her daughter can also benefit from her work as these awards and recognition are important in terms of college scholEmily Gourgues arship opportunities. Girls interested in folon the project she created at lowing in Blohm-Kelly’s lead should check out their local Girl Scouts. September is the start of a new scouting year and registration is underway. The minimum age is 5 years old and membership costs $10 a year. Smith said this is a small investment considering the friendships, experiences and skills girls get from being a part of the program. The Girl Scouts are also looking for leaders and volunteers. For more information contact Smith at 09841-682965 or e-mail [email protected]. Garrison Roundup The Point, August 25, 2006 13 USAG Ansbach New plates piano lessons for community youth. Regine Poeflinger, an experienced musician and vocalist, has taught private piano lessons for more than 30 years. Lessons are available to youth ages 9-18. For more information, call SKIES Unlimited at 467-4703 or 09841-834-703. Vehicle registration on Barton Barracks has the new German-like license plates for USAREUR privately-owned vehicles. USAREUR also raised the price of vehicle registration to $30, up from $15. For more information, call vehicle registration at 468-7892 or 0981-183-892. German lessons Women’s Equality Day SKIES Unlimited offers German lessons to youth in Illesheim. Elke Lewis, who has a linguistics degree from Sorbonne in France and is an interpreter and translator for the Bavarian Court, offers German classes for youth ages 5-18. For more information, call SKIES Unlimited at 4674703 or 09841-834-703. Learn how to enhance your military and civilian careers by attending USAG Ansbach’s Women’s Equality Day Aug. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Katterbach Dining Facility. Cost is $3.05 for dependents of E-4 and below and $3.55 for everyone else. The presentation features a panel of senior female leaders who will address professional development and hold a question and answer session. Topics include: getting on the education course for success, having a mentor, balancing family and career, strategic planning for career development, and mobility and career progression. For more information, call 467-2820 or 09802-83-2820, or 468-7733 or 0981183-733. Get into Scouting Cub Scout Pack 97 is gearing up for another year of fun and adventure. Children in first through fifth grades can call Marcie Cozad at 0175-444-0603 to join or learn more about the local pack. Girl Scout gathering Paintball Saturdays USAG Ansbach Outdoor Recreation offers paintball on its brand new field in the Urlas Training Area near Shipton Kaserne Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Outdoor Rec has guns, masks and other gear for rent. For more information, call 467-3225 or 09802-833-225. Dental exams Katterbach Dental Clinic offers dental exams with cleaning appointments. To schedule these appointments, you must be an active duty Soldier and in the 60-day window for a dental exam. To Showering residents with info Jim Hughes A girl tries to get a ball through a hoop with a fire hose with the help of a Katterbach firefighter during the 2005 USAG Ansbach Showcase. This yearʼs showcase is Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Katterbach Fitness Center. For more information call Patti Bentley or Barb Powell, Katterbach Army Community Service, 468-2883 or 09802-832883. schedule, call 467-1720 or 467-2806 or 09802-832806. Piano lessons at 469-7747 or 0951-300-7747 or e-mail [email protected] the opportunity to record a story during the month of September. All necessary supplies will be provided at the library. Encourage your child to read while you are away. Contact the library at 469-1740 or 0951-300-1740 for more information. USAG Ansbach’s SKIES Unlimited offers Local Girl Scouts offer games and fun Sept. 14 at Ansbach Elementary School as part of a membership drive. Registration for Scouts starts at 3 p.m. and activities begin at 3:30 p.m. For more information, send an e-mail to gsansbach_info@ yahoo.com. VA benefits The Army Career and Alumni Program hosts Veterans Affairs benefits briefings Sept. 6 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the theater on Bismarck Kaserne. For more information or to register, call Clare Sowinski at 467-3312 or 09802-833-312. USAG Bamberg Audition for Annie Bamberg’s Stable Theater holds auditions for the musical “Annie” on Sept. 11 and 14 at 6:30 p.m. The theater is looking for men and women of all ages and children age 8 and up. Volunteers are needed for the stage crew as well. Call the Stable Theater at 469-8647 or 0951-300-8647 for more information. Get connected at EXPO Looking for crafters The Bamberg Spouses’ & Civilians’ Club is looking for crafters to consign their wares for the 2006/2007 fundraising season. Consigning with the BSCC is an avenue to showcase crafts and make money in the process. Ways and Means merchandise is sold at every BSCC function and at the Thrift Shop. For more information, stop by the Thrift Shop or e-mail [email protected] All crafters must be military ID card holders. Oktoberfest with CAC Visit the largest beer festival in the world with the Community Activity Center. Two trips to the Munich Oktoberfest are offered – Sept. 23 and 30. Cost is $35 per person. To sign up call the CAC, 469-7747 or 0951-300-7747. 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call to make an appointment for consignment at 0951-32408. Attend open house New and returning parents and students are invited to attend Bamberg Elementary School’s Open House Aug. 30 from 4 to 5 p.m. Catholic picnic Read to your children – even when downrange. The Bamberg Community Library offers parents Find great deals on gently used and new merchandise at the Thrift Shop. The shop is open Tue. and Wed. from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thurs. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the first Sat. of the month from Join the Catholic Congregation for Mass Sunday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m., followed by a parish picnic at Friendship Park (inclement weather location is Bamberg Elementary School). Hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks and paper items will be supplied. Each family/Soldier is asked to bring one side dish to share. Contact Anne Munns for more information at 469-1760 or 09131-933-1131. Chapel services gen commissaries is Thursday, Aug. 31. Ski Club kickoff Housing relocates All services will be held on Leighton Barracks. Jewish services are the second and fourth Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m. – call 350-6334. Seventh Day Adventist services are Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. – call 0151-1754-6314. United Pentecostal services are Saturdays at 5 p.m. – call 350-4332. On Sundays, Catholic services are held at 9 a.m. (3502465); Protestant services at 10:30 a.m. (350-1570) and Lutheran services are held at noon (3507117). Case lot sales The Wuerzburg International Ski Club holds its annual kickoff party at the Cantigny Club Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. All are welcome to enjoy the festivities and find out about ski and social outings planned for the coming year. For more information go to www.wskiclub.org or e-mail wskiclub@hotmail. com. The Housing Information Office is now in building 13 on Leighton Barracks. The office is open Mon-Wed and Fri, 8 a.m. to noon, and 1 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday hours are from 1 to 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 0931-889-6702. Find out what Warner Barracks has to offer at the Bamberg Community Expo Sept.7 at 2 p.m. at the Basics Building. Local activity representatives will answer questions and provide information about their products and services. It’s a chance to get connected and win prizes too! For more information contact MWR Marketing and Advertising Record a story Thrift Shop deals USAG Franconia Area commissaries will hold case lot sales the third week of September. Wuerzburg, Bamberg and Ansbach commissary sales are Sept. 23-24. Illesheim’s sale is Sept. 22-23. Get a new mailbox Central Mail Room (CMR) 476 on Faulenberg Kaserne will cease operations Sept. 15. People with mailboxes there should go to CMR 475 on Leighton Barracks (behind the post office) to arrange for a new mailbox. Be prepared Military Idol 09721-96-6793. Cheer for your favorite Soldier as the Military Idol competition continues Aug. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Abrams Entertainment Center. Judges scoring and audience voting determine who moves on to the next round. Winners receive cash prizes for themselves and their units, and move on to compete in the Military Idol finals in the U.S. For more information call 354-6270 or 09721-96-6270. ABCs of FRG fifth grade and is free of charge. For more information call 354-6281 or 09721-966281. Commissaries close The last day of sales at Giebelstadt and Kitzin- The Cub Scouts are looking for volunteers to assist with various programs. Call Laura Bell at 09334-970-975 or e-mail [email protected] for information or to sign up. Get fit USAG Franconia Civilian Fitness Program assessment dates are Sept. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon and Sept. 13 from noon to 2 p.m. at Leighton Fitness Center. Participants are enrolled for six months. For information call 350-2202 or 354-6796 or e-mail [email protected]. USAG Schweinfurt Fall Harvest Bazaar The Schweinfurt Community Spouses’ Club conducts their annual Fall Harvest Bazaar Sept. 13 at Finney Fitness Center, building 64 on Conn Barracks. Enjoy tax-free shopping with more than 50 vendors offering a variety of goods. There will be a raffle for fun prizes! Open to U.S. ID card holders only. For more information call 354-6141 or 09721-96-6141. Civilian Fitness The Civilian Fitness Program open enrollment period for USAG Schweinfurt is Sept. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon, and Sept. 15 from noon to 2 p.m. at Finney Fitness Center on Conn Barracks. The Civilian Fitness Program offers DA civilians and local nationals an opportunity to get fit on government time. Enrollees are granted up to three hours per week of paid time off to take part in the program. Enrollment is for a six-month period and is available only once during your career. For more information, call 354-6793 or Army Community Service Center wants you to know the basics of being in a family readiness group (FRG). The ABCs of the FRG class is Aug. 29 from 9 a.m. to noon in the Yellow Ribbon Room on Ledward Barracks. Class is designed to provide the purpose, mission, and scope of an FRG, and help you learn your place in it. Learn what the FRG can do for you and your family, and what you can do for your FRG. For more information call 354-6751 or 09721-96-6751. Texas Hold ‘em Live Latin music USO goes to Paris USAG Schweinfurt’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation division presents the vibrant rhythms of Elida Reyna’s music Sept. 7 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Conn Club. Reyna, an award-winning Tejano artist, is bringing a Latin beat to Schweinfurt with Operation Ajua (pronounced hoo-ah). Ajua translates as “a good time” and that is what Reyna’s performance promises to be. For more information call 354-6715 or 09721-96-6715. Schweinfurt’s United Service Organizations (USO) office announces a Paris Express trip Sept. 1-3. The trip departs at 9 p.m. Cost is $169 and includes transportation, a tour, and one overnight with breakfast. Add a stop to Disneyland Paris for an additional fee. For more information call 3546711 or 09721-96-6711. Parent’s night out Child and Youth Services (CYS) in Schweinfurt invites parents to take an evening off without the kids Sept. 2 from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. Children must be registered with CYS and you must register in advance to reserve your slot. Space is limited to the first 50 children and registration is now open. This service is for children aged six weeks to Ante up! USAG Schweinfurt’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division invites everyone to a Texas Hold ‘em poker tournament Sept. 9 at the Conn Club. Doors open at 9 a.m., and registration fee is $30. The winner will walk away with $1500 and bragging rights–until the next tournament. For more information call 350-6305 or 0931-8896305. Aerobathon is Sept. 9 USAG Schweinfurt’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation division offers fun and exercise at an aerobathon at Finney Fitness Center Sept. 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Scheduled are intense yoga, body sculpting, step aerobics, and more. Get a workout, meet new people and learn a new exercise. For more information call 350-7378 or 0931-889-7378. Get fit! Kimberly Gearhart Workouts pay big dividends. Sign up for the Civilian Fitness Program in your community. The Point, August 25, 2006 15 Club Beyond, a faith-based ministry activity that reaches out to military teens worldwide, escorted nearly 1,000 high school and middle school youth on separate trips for a week of spiritually-oriented fun in the Italian sun in June. The group was able to slide in a trip to a water park during its visit to Italy. Going beyond Club Beyond takes area youth on an Italian holiday The scenic seashore of Cinque Terre was a good jumping off spot for visitors. For new and unique looks, shaving cream became a fashion accessory. The styles were obviously better received by some more than others. Activities were held every evening at the Club Beyond campsite on Camp Darby. Photos provided by Joey McCloskey One of the seven wonders of the world, the Leaning Tower of Pisa lends itself to being creatively photographed. Some singers went wild at karaoke time – often with frightening results. Then there are youthful eating habits. Some invented ways to fend for themselves. 16 U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg The Point, August 25, 2006 Bamberg mourns loss of four Soldiers by Cheryl Boujnida The Point Four 54th Engineer Battalion Soldiers were honored at memorial services at Warner Chapel in July. Staff Sgt. Omar Flores, Spc. Troy Linden and Spc. Joseph Micks died in Ramadi, Iraq, while conducting route clearance patrols and counter improvised explosive device operations July 8. Sgt. Alkaila Floyd died at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center July 13 from injuries during the July 8 roadside bomb attack. About 200 Soldiers, family and friends attended memorial services July 12 for the Soldiers. Family readiness groups placed single roses near photos of each of them. “We will never know why these four incredible people were taken from us,” said Brian Pugh, 54th Eng. Bn. rear detachment commander. “All of them had qualities that made them special and unique individuals.” Originally from Mission, Texas, Flores served as a combat engineer with Company C. He had been promoted to staff sergeant and assigned as a 3rd Platoon squad leader in January. “He had a smile that could light up any room and his family meant everything to him,” Pugh said of Flores at the July 12 service. “He loved being in the Army, loved his job and mostly he loved his Soldiers.” Linden, a native of Detroit Lakes, Minn., whose first position was as a rifleman in 2nd Platoon, later became an AVLB (armored vehicle launching bridge) operator in the A&O (assault and obstacles) Platoon. In Iraq, he performed duties as an RG-31 and M1114 operator and gunner for 3rd Platoon. Spc. Brian Babcock, who served with Linden, spoke about his comrade. “I am honored not to talk about the death of Carrying a rose, a spouse pays her respects to the 54th Engineer Battalion Soldiers honored at a July 12 memorial service in Bamberg. Cheryl Boujnida (2) Friends sign in at the memorial service Spc. Troy Linden, but rather to talk about his life,” Babcock said. “He was not only the Soldier who lived across the hall, but he was a friend who I spent many days with pulling quick reaction force duties together. Not only did the Army lose a great Soldier, but many of us lost a great friend.” Originally from Michigan, Micks was a combat engineer assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company who served in the fuel section of the Support Platoon. In July, he was assigned to Company C’s A&O Platoon as the platoon sergeant’s driver. “He was a skilled Soldier who was mission focused and stood out as a leader,” Pugh said. “He cherished his wife of 18 months, Ramona, and touched the hearts of all in their family.” Floyd entered active duty in 2002, and served as an ACE (armored combat earthmover) operator and combat engineer during the initial invasion and occupation of Iraq. He was assigned to A&O Platoon as a squad leader. In Iraq, he performed duties as a HMMWV and RG-31 (vehicle) gunner and vehicle commander. “He was the type of Soldier who, when faced with a difficult mission, smiled and threw on his gear and motivated his peers to do the same,” Pugh said. Floyd’s death is the fifth that 54th Eng. Bn. has suffered during its current deployment to Iraq. The unit is expected to return to Bamberg the end of October. Pugh said the unit will band together and pull through hard times, drawing upon its strengths. He also addressed the spouses attending the service. “It is a special bond you share with others when you send a loved one into harm’s way, and we could not succeed without you,” he said. Chaplain (Maj.) Thomas Cox, who performed the invocation and prayer, said the Soldiers died in a battle to secure freedom for an oppressed people. He mentioned the significance of walking among tombstones at the American Cemetery in France, where the remains of nearly 10,000 servicemen who died during the Normandy campaign are interred. “At some time in the future, when you look at a servicemember’s gravestone because you knew them or because you are a Soldier, I am sure you’ll contemplate the price of freedom more intently,” Cox said, stressing that this is a most arduous time and death can heighten anxiety. “Let me encourage you to ask God for peace in your lives and in your heart to protect it in difficult times.” Health professionals unite Annual G-A barbecue brings medical community together by Cheryl Boujnida The Point Bamberg Health Clinic held its annual barbecue for American and German physicians on Warner Barracks July 19. Dr. (Maj.) James Stein, clinic commander, addressing about 100 attendees, stressed the significance of the informal gathering as an opportunity to talk about patient services. “I appreciate the hard work and compassionate care that you provide for our Soldiers and their family members,” Stein said. “With the closure of the Wuerzburg Hospital, we will have to rely on our German providers for more primary care services.” Stein praised the German doctors for their cooperation with the Bamberg Health Clinic. “Our patients are certainly aware that this partnership provides them with the best health care possible,” he said. Renate Nagan, patient liaison, said health practitioners spend endless hours working and rarely have the opportunity to meet their counterparts. “This event allows doctors to meet many German providers who they have referred patients to, and fosters future relations, too,” she said. Lt. Col. Mark Gatto, USAG Bamberg commander, said Bamberg Soldiers and family members depend on receiving quality health care from health clinic staff and local German health care providers. “Many Soldiers choose to be stationed in Bamberg because medical care here is at the top of what’s offered throughout military communities in Europe,” he said. Health clinic doctors stressed the importance of host-nation contacts. “It’s critical to have close associations with our German counterparts,” said Dr. Mary Laxton, physician’s assistant. “Those relations will become even more crucial to our mission since medical services in Wuerzburg are closed,” Dr. Burkhard Truson, a pediatrician at the Bamberg Klinikum, said the cooperation has led to many positive results. Cheryl Boujnida “I was impressed when Major Stein, who had referred a patient to me, came by my office to Sgt. John Braley, Bamberg Health Clinic combat medic, explains how check on the child’s diagnosis. It shows that we to apply tactical combat casualty care can work together to provide patients with the clinic first sergeant, said developments in the Army medical field finest and optimal care that they deserve,” Truson said. have impacted the Soldier’s ability to save lives. Sgt. John Braley, combat medic, demonstrated tactical combat casualty care (TCCC-3) to German doctors. “The new trauma bandage, which replaces the old field dress“Combat medics can’t be on every convoy. In the event that ing, can be applied as a regular pressure dressing, tourniquet and something happens, Soldiers need the skills to perform life-savbandage,” Cruze said. “The combat application tourniquet ing techniques until a medic arrives or the patient is evacuated to allows Soldiers to apply self aid with one hand or perform buddy higher care,” Braley said. aid. These advancements can make a difference to Soldiers on Sgt. First Class Steven Cruze, senior combat medic and health the battlefield.” Vehicle registration eases plate transfer by Cheryl Boujnida The Point Soldiers relocating to Bamberg from Italy must register privatelyowned vehicles (POV) within 30 days of their reassignment. The local vehicle registration office is making the transfer as smooth as possible. The following documents are required: Italian registration, valid ID card, double white insurance cards and a $30 registration fee to be paid by check, money order or credit card. “It’s a simple process if the Soldier and/or family members have their paperwork in order. It’s a formality of relocating to a new duty station,” said Michaela Hausdorff, vehicle registration clerk. The vehicle registration office will issue temporary license plates for 30 days to pass inspection. Once the inspection is complete, permanent license plates will be issued for one year. “Soldiers who have POVs less than two years old (2005-06) can receive permanent plates without an inspection for one year,” Hausdorff said. Soldiers with accompanied family members are authorized three POVs and two motorized or nonmotorized recreational POVs. Unaccompanied and single Soldiers are authorized one POV and one motorized or non-motorized recreational POV. Unit commanders must approve waivers from Soldiers who want to register another POV. The form (AE 190-1AG-R) is available online and can be downloaded under forms at www. rmv.usareur.army.mil or pick one up at the vehicle registration office. “Those who need a USAREUR driver’s license must contact the driver’s testing office,” Hausdorff added. The driver’s testing office is next to Stable Theater and at 469-8600 or 0951-300-8600. Vehicle registration is at the military police station and is open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. For more information call 4607580 or 0951-300-7580. Good, clean fun Cheryl Boujnida Bamberg youth cool down as the Bamberg fire department delivers some soothing foam in the heat of July during Child and Youth Services’ Wacky Water Week. CYS offers child care and youth programs for children aged 6 weeks to 19 years old at the child development center, school age services, hourly day care facility and Oasis middle school and teen centers. Enroll your children in sports programs such as soccer, cheerleading, tackle football, basketball and baseball. Youth taking part in sports activities need a physical exam. For more information, call CYS central registration at 469-8660 or 0951-300-8660. 18 U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt The Point, August 25, 2006 New leadership takes helm in Schweinfurt by Kimberly Gearhart the freedom that we bring to this world. That’s why supporting the family is so important. The Point USAG Schweinfurt officially welcomed it’s new commander July 20 as Lt. Col. Anthony Haager took the reins from Lt. Col. Jeffrey Feldman in ceremonies in Andrus Gardens on Ledward Barracks. “I thank God for having blessed me with the wisdom, patience, perseverance, and energy to have given my very best as your community commander,” Feldman said in his parting remarks. “Serving others is what it has all been about.” Feldman will serve at the Pentagon in his next assignment. Haager accepted the leadership challenge, taking the garrison colors from Col. Russel D. Santala, USAG Franconia commander. A newcomer to Europe, Haager thanked the Feldman family for their support during his transition from his previous assignment as professor of military science at Georgia Military College. Speaking in both German and English, Haager thanked guests at the ceremony, and announced what he will bring to USAG Schweinfurt. “I pledge to build on the relationships that (Feldman) has forged, and ensure that our community remains the top-notch community that it is,” he said. Haager faces more than maintaining the status quo in his new role. He takes command of an installation in transition and that will soon be responsible for activities and facilities formerly under the USAG Franconia umbrella. More importantly, with the impending 2nd Brigade Combat Team deployment, the garrison will soon support families whose Soldiers are at war. Haager wished for blessings on “the servicemen and women walking point right now, allowing us the freedom to live our lives the way we do today.” Q: What do you look forward to while in command? A: Having fun. New experiences are always welcome. I have a diverse background: company commander, strategic intelligence officer, brigade operations officer, college professor, and I’ve spent time in special operations jumping out of planes. But this is my first time as a garrison commander. This is a side of the Army you really don’t see until you are involved in it. In all my jobs, supporting the Soldier and the family were key. Being the garrison commander allows me to take that support to the next level, to leverage more assets to support the Soldier and family. Kimberly Gearhart Lt.Col. Anthony Haager returns the garrison guidon to Command Sgt. Maj. Keith McMullen after accepting it from USAG Franconia commander Col. Russel Santala, left, in a July 20 change of command ceremony. Former commander Lt. Col. Jeffrey Feldman is on the right. Q&A with Lt. Col. Haager: Q: How do you feel about taking command? A: Excited and honored. My family and I are excited to be here. Commanding this community with such a large and diverse population will be a challenge, especially in light of us expanding and taking on the responsibilities of Wuerzburg. This is my first assignment here in Germany, though I have visited many times and have family in Fuerth/Nuernberg. This is still such a new experience. The military community of Schweinfurt has a long history with the German community, and I hope to continue and add to the good relations we enjoy. Q: What do you want the community to know about you? A: I’m a family man. For me, the family represents all the reasons that civilians raise their hands and vow to be Soldiers. The men and women on the frontlines fight so that you and I and our families can live our lives as we do, in Q: Is there one thing you would like to focus for the community? A: The concept that we are a community and that we all have responsibilities to our community. The garrison staff and I can only do so much; we need help from everybody. I want everyone to take ownership for how good Schweinfurt is. I would also like to focus on the family support programs available here – programs like SNAPS and GUTS make us a top-notch community and I would like to see us focus on similar programs, especially now that our Soldiers are deploying. Families need that kind of support, now more than ever. Q: What are the challenges now that Schweinfurt is to be a direct reporting unit? A: The biggest challenge will be the paradigm shift that the center of gravity is now in Schweinfurt, not Wuerzburg. Our biggest customer base, 11,000-plus, is in Schweinfurt and a little over 1,100 customers are in Wuerzburg. We will do our best to ensure services stay at the same level as before. That does not mean services will be available at their current location, but they will be available, one way or another. Airborne Cav FST activates by Kimberly Gearhart The Point Kimberly Gearhart Capt. Peter Gilbert, left, and 1st Sgt. Eric Curless, center, uncase the colors of the newly activated Forward Support Troop, 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry. The transformation is complete for the 1st Squadron, 91st U.S. Cavalry. The Forward Support Troop, 1-91 Cav’s activation during a ceremony on Conn Barracks Aug. 16, marked the completion of the unit’s transformation into a light airborne reconnaissance outfit. “The activation of the Forward Support Troop is the final step in the transformation of our organization,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Kolenda, squadron commander. A forward support company provides support personnel, and is attached to combined arms battalions as part of the modular fighting force that is a brigade combat team. In the cavalry, they call it a forward support troop, or FST. Their mission is to provide nearly every kind of support for the squadron, including field feeding, fuel, ammunition, organizational and direct maintenance, as well as transportation and logistical support. Before the formation of integrated support troops, units would often have several companies or groups from outside attached to them before they could be combatready. The FST brings what Kolenda called “an order of magnitude increase in the effectiveness of our squadron,” greatly enhancing the cavalry’s ability to effectively, efficiently, and successfully accomplish their wartime missions. “We must not forget that our nation is still at war, and soon it will be our turn,” said Capt. Peter Gilbert, the new FST company commander. “Change is occurring at every level. We have tailored our support package to a more light and agile force,” he said. Gilbert and newly promoted 1st Sgt. Eric Curless uncased the colors of their new company and marked the beginning of a new era for the Cav as a self-sufficient warfighting force. It is a challenge Kolenda feels his troopers are ready to face. “These are no ordinary Soldiers, and this is no ordinary unit,” he said. 2d BCT commander stresses communication to leadership by Kimberly Gearhart Col. J.B. Burton, 2nd Brigade Combat Team commander, adding that every family in the brigade is informed, supported, and prepared for the challenges that deployment will bring. “It’s about keeping an open line of communication that deals with facts,” Burton said after meeting with family readiness group leaders, “Our jobs are to safeguard this nation’s treacompany command groups, and rear-detachsures, and our families are that treasure,” said ment in Ledward Theater Aug. 15. Burton knows his Soldiers are the best trained, best outfitted, and best-led in today’s Army, capable of accomplishing any assigned mission. He wants no less for the families of the Dagger Brigade. Attendees were briefed on mission updates and given rough timelines for the brigade’s deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Burton stressed that exact dates are not under his control and acknowledged that although it is frustrating for families, they should focus on what they can control. “We own our readiness Kimberly Gearhart level,” Burton said. “That The formation of 2nd Brigade Combat Team Soldiers parades during departure ceremonies Aug. 9 in includes how prepared and informed the family is for Schweinfurt. The Point the road ahead.” Information packets with coping tips, Army Community Service program offerings and recreation opportunities were distributed. Burton urged families to maintain their routines, focus on the positive, and stay connected to one another and the command. He said information is the best weapon in the struggles of having a deployed family member. Families are not alone in their battle to remain informed. For the families of 2nd BCT, there is Task Force Guardian. Task Force Guardian isn’t your average rear detachment command. “Task Force Guardian is deliberately formed, trained, and certified (group of) experts – an empowered command,” Burton said. Guardian will serve as the link between the FRGs and the command and Soldiers downrange. Guardian members have been trained to handle issues that may arise when a Soldier is deployed. They also support day-to-day issues such as FRG funding questions and communications issues between families and their deployed Soldiers. Maj. Robert Whittle, Guardian commander, hopes that by insuring families are supported, he can help Dagger Soldiers focus on their mission and come home safely. U.S. Army Garrison Franconia The Point, August 25, 2006 21 AAFES venues shift in Wuerzburg by Roger Teel Facility hours: The Point Scott Rouch Spc. Walter Riley relaxes at Café Italiano, located – for now – in the Leighton Barracks BookMark. In October, Café Italiano will move to the Cinnabun location in the main store. As previously announced, Army and Air Force Exchange Services on Leighton Barracks in Wuerzburg will continue to reorganize in the coming weeks. “Changes are based on studies made on traffic flow at all the locations and on sales trends we are seeing,” said Stan McGhee, AAFES regional general manager. In August, the TKS outlet and optical shops were relocated into the main store. By October, several service venues will have a much different look. The BookMark will be consolidated into the main store. The furniture store will move into the former BookMark area. Cinnabun will cease operations and Café Italiano will move into the Cinnabun location in the main store. Baskin Robbins will also close and Café Italiano will begin selling Italian ice cream selections similar to those on the economy. “Once the moves and consolidations are in place, our customers will enjoy the shopping experience more as all major AAFES operations will be in one location and we will truly have a one-stop shopping,” McGhee said. “This will also help us provide better customer service with a more efficient and smaller work force,” he added. McGhee noted that concession operations, such as the barber shop, beauty salon, dry cleaning, wellness spa, and gift shops are operated by local business people. AAFES contracts for these services. “Like any small business, they can only operate so long as they see foot traffic and sales,” he said. “If they don’t have this, they cannot survive in these types of downward transformations. I expect we will see some of these businesses fold in the next several months. We will try to get new contracts as this happens, but it will be challenging.” McGhee said providing the best possible customer service remains a priority in Wuerzburg. “We will continue to make adjustments in the upcoming year. As always, our moves will be based on ensuring the best customer service based on demographics, traffic flow and sales. All changes will be coordinated with the area command,” he added. Effective Sept. 2, the following hours will be in effect at AAFES facilities on Leighton Barracks: Post Exchange – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-8 p.m, Sat 10 a.m.8 p.m. and Sun 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Hours on American holidays are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Reeltime Theater – Tue-Sun, closed Monday. Barber and beauty shop – Mon-Fri 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and closed Sunday BookMark – Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sun 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Café Italiano – Mon-Sat 9 a.m -7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.7 p.m. Car care center – Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Furniture store – Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.6 p.m. Laundry/dry cleaning alterations shop – Mon-Fri 12:30-5:30 p.m, Saturday noon-4 p.m. Military Clothing Sales Store – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.6 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sixt Car Rental – Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. New Car Sales – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.6 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Day Spa – Mon-Tue, Thur-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Two-Hour Photo – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Kaethe Wohlfahrt – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Nachtmanns – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Willi Geck – Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ACS remains viable, vital in Wuerzburg by Scott Rouch The Point While merged with USAG Schweinfurt, the USAG Franconia Army Community Service is keeping its programs going in Wuerzburg. One of those is the Newcomers Orientation and Welcome (NOW) program, although newcomer takes on various forms these days. On Aug. 8, Cindy Gonzalez led a group that included a newcomer to Germany – Becky Sousa, who arrived just a few weeks ago – and transplants from inside Germany: Diane and Elizabeth Davis, recent arrivals from an 11-year stay in Hanau, Maryann Williams and her 11-month-old daughter Eliana, who moved to Wuerzburg from Giebelstadt, and Jennifer Holmes, who was visiting from New Jersey. Gonzalez, a 23-year Army spouse, shepherded the group from the ACS office on Leighton Barracks to the bus stop just outside post. Then their six-hour adventure began. After spending five years in Wiesbaden, Gonzalez came to the area in January, took the NOW program – and subsequently every class they offered – and was offered a job. The orientation program is one she highly recommends. “I got oriented, went to the NOW program and got to know the area,” Gonzalez said. “Even if you’ve been in Germany, there is a lot to know about local neighborhoods and you can learn something new every day.” Just learning to ride the bus was going to make a difference to Sousa, who doesn’t have a car and lives off post. “It was informative,” Sousa said. “I thought we’d just ride the bus into town, ride around and turn around. Learning to ride the bus was helpful because I’m looking at a house about 15 minutes out of town and she (Gonzalez) says the bus goes right by there.” After arriving at the bus station, the group took to the streets with Gonzalez pointing out places of interest including places to shop, a last-minute travel office, the Rathaus (city hall) and churches. “We’re doing lots of walking and there are lots of things to come back and see,” said Diane Davis. “It’s been nice and comfortable. She’s got us on a leisurely pace. Learning to take the bus was the most important thing; it’s the key to getting around the city.” Getting out for the day and learning about the city was something Williams was going to share. “My husband doesn’t get to do all these fun things,” Williams said. “Now I can show him where to go.” Scott Rouch Cindy Gonzalez leads the NOW participants on a tour of downtown Wuerzburg. Schweinfurt SAS shifts gears for upcoming school year gram to a before and after school service. But don’t think the fun and learning are over. The School Age Services summer program “We’ll be doing more club activities during the school year,” said Bobbie Jones, SAS assiswas full of activities for children in Schweinfurt. tant director. “The regularity of enrollment during the school year is more conducive to regular club meetings.” Students will be able to join clubs where they can explore art, computers, and even digital photography, as well as participate in dramatic play, group bonding, and something called “The Power Hour.” “The Power Hour is a homework lab. We Larry Reilly Cantigny Club hosts Showcase work together with the school This yearʼs USAG Franconia community showcase is set for Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. in the Cantigny and children Club. The showcase is an opportunity to gather information about services and agencies in Wuerzburg. earn points for Smaller agencies or private organizations, such as boy and girl scouts, church organizations and others participating, will also be on hand. For more information, call 351-4125 or 0931-296-4125. which they can by Kimberly Gearhart The Point They learned to ride horses, visited Legoland, and went swimming every chance they got. Now that school is starting, SAS is switching modes and moving from an all-day summer pro- redeem after report cards come out for schoolrelated prizes like notebooks or pencils,” Jones said With the deployment of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, children at SAS will begin facing new and troubling challenges. The staff is prepared for that as well. “We have deployment-related activities planned throughout the year to help the children stay connected with their deployed parents,” said Jones. SAS is open from 5:45 to 8 a.m., and after school from 2:20 to 6 p.m. Parents can enroll their children for either program, or opt for both. “We are not at capacity, so enrollment stays open throughout the year,” Jones said, also recommending contacting the facility at least a week before you need to begin bringing your children. Children must be enrolled with Child and Youth Services to enroll in SAS, and parents must complete an orientation prior to bringing their children to the facility for care. Tomoko Gates, SAS director, said orientation will be held every Tuesday morning from 10:30 to 11 a.m. for parents who find themselves in need of SAS services. Hourly care is also available for registered children for $3 per hour, for parents who may have occasion for child care services. For more information, call 354-6974 or 09721-82181. Sports The Point, August 25, 2006 23 Area teams prep for 2006 football season by Scott Rouch The Point This is the time of year when hope springs eternal, every team begins with a clean slate and all of them have a shot at the title. Break out the clichés if you must, but it’s time to get excited, sports fans – the 2006 high school football season begins Sept. 16. The Point’s coverage of the three Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS) schools in our coverage area begins with a preview of each team: Ansbach Cougars Head coach Marcus George thinks his Ansbach Cougars are decided underdogs as they vie for the 2006 DoDDS-Europe Division III title. Of course, he likes casting his team as the underdog. George had similar preseason sentiments in years’ past as the Cougars won three-consecutive championships (20022004). But he may be right this time. In 2005, the Cougars saw its record 27-game win streak halted by the Hohenfels Tigers in the Marcus George regular season. They finished with a 6-2 record after falling to the Tigers 37-20 in the Division III championship game. 2006 presents its own challenges. The Cougars will not only face a Hohenfels squad that returns most of its championship team, but will also play 2005 Division II champion Hanau that became a Division III school this year. “We’re basically developing younger players to see who’s going to move in and, at this point, we’re definitely a dark horse,” George said. “We don’t have the people coming back like Hohenfels or Hanau. We were looking really, really sound with a major portion of the team coming back, but we’ve lost five starters since April that we thought were coming back.” George will look for leaders on his young team, on being senior Baraka Waweru, a returning all-conference lineman. “We normally just tell everybody to stay focused, and whether you’re starting or not, everybody’s position is important. Whether you’re holding the dummies or the person hitting the dummies, we need everybody to be able to get to where we were,” Waweru said. “(Last year) felt like a big letdown because we were representing all the people who came before us, and we had a tradition to keep up,” Waweru added. Senior lineman David Zumbach was of similar mind. “I want to make everybody work hard enough to get it,” he said. “Last year I thought we had it; it was those key moments when we didn’t come together. That’s what I want to work on. I’m kind of excited, kind of nervous. I want to get in there and finish it now.” No matter what the situation, George has at least one intangible working in his favor. “Our tradition will help us because we’re used to winning, and I think we’ll do the things that we need to do to get better. Our work habits are good and our standards are good,” George said. “I think we’ll get a lot of mileage out of our kids. It depends on how much we’ve got.” Scott Rouch (6) Kaiserslautern coach Jesse Hipes works with Ansbachʼs Jacob Burnside during a drill for linemen at the 2006 DoDDs-E Football Camp in Ansbach Aug. 16-18. Wuerzburg running back Anthony Miles He had players at the three-day DoDDs-Europe played?’ and, ‘Did you play as hard as you can?’ goes through the paces at the DoDDs-E football camp in Ansbach. If you answer yes and yes to those things, not camp. “I brought 11 to the camp – 11 more than I only in football but in life, you’ve probably done brought last year,” Davis said. “I started out the a successful thing.” first game (in 2005) with 13 players, so I think Wuerzburg Wolves that’s a positive to start off with that many kids.” After their first practice with 27 players on the The Barons were 3-3 in 2005; their losses on the road to three-time champion Ansbach, to field, Wuerzburg head coach Eric Mead had eventual champion Hohenfels and in the play- some initial impressions. “We’ve got a lot of kids who haven’t played offs at London Central. Davis knows the road football before,” he said. isn’t any easier in 2006. By the time school starts Mead expects close “Hohenfels looks just as strong as they did last year. We have Hanau, the defending Divi- to 40 players on the field for practice. sion II champs, moving down and Ansbach’s alIt will be a new feel for the Wolves who ways going to be a contender,” he said. “Add in slipped from Division I to Division II for the Giessen and Sigonella and that could drop any- 2006 season and did away with junior varsity body’s hopes of getting to the playoffs. Yeah, it’s football. Mead, who coached the Wolves to the going to be a tough road to hoe, definitely.” Division I title in 2002, may be the perfect perHelping get down that son for the job. road will be a pair of tal“I’m looking forward to working in a small ented returners. school. I prefer a small school to a big school,” With the addition of Dil- Mead said, having also coached six years at Allon Baker at quarterback, conbury in England. Davis plans to move Mar“Last time I coached we vin Gholston back to wide were Division I and had receiver. Gholston was a about 80 to 100 kids come wide receiver in 2004 and out. It was difficult beplayed quarterback in cause we were short on 2005. The defense will coaches most of the time. I also return tough Adam expect to have a fewer James Davis Worrell. problems – not that we had “I only have one first team all-conference a lot before – but it’s going back – Adam Worrell at linebacker,” Davis said. to be a lot easier to run and “He probably put on 10 pounds of muscle over you can get a lot more done in practice.” the summer and he’s ready to go.” Eric Mead Returning for his third While the goal is to win a championship, year at running back for the Wolves, Anthony Davis knows there are first steps to take. “Obviously we want to build a team to com- “AJ” Miles sees the good and bad sides to havpete with some of the teams that have been ing a small squad. Bamberg Barons “We’ll have more time to focus on individuaround; programs that have established themHead coach James Davis already has his team selves,” he said. “I think depth is going to be a als, which is good, but it’s bad because we’ll off to a better start this year than he did in 2005. problem for us against teams with more players have a lot of new players playing positions but I think we’ll still field a they’re not used to,” he said. competitive team.” Though the team will be inexperienced, Mead Davis doesn’t judge his saw enough good things at practice to keep him players just on wins and upbeat. losses. “We have more speed than Wuerzburg has Rattlers lose, advance had in the past three or four years,” Mead said. Bambergʼs Dillon Baker is the front run“I ask my kids two quesThe Kitzingen Rattlers men’s softball team fell 11-10 to “We look good in the skill positions and the of- ner to start at quarterback for the Barons tions at the end of every game: Stuttgart in the championship game of the 2006 U.S. Army, fensive line has got some decent size.” ‘Are you proud of how you in 2006. Europe Softball Championships in Grafenwoehr last weekend. Despite the loss, Kitzingen advances with Stuttgart to the 2006 U.S. Forces Europe tournament also in Grafenwoehr Aug. 24-27. Teams will be matched against U.S. Air Force, Europe squads Ramstein and Spangdahlem. by Scott Rouch bach airfield were being conducted about a football field’s length Soccer Academy The Point away from the training area. Enroll in the Kabuye Soccer Academy running from “Sometimes I think these helicopters wait until I start talking Even with the continuing drawdown of forces across Europe, Aug. 28-Nov. 24 on the Child and Youth Services sports then land over there,” George said. “I’m coming out with a bullthe 2006 Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Europe field near the Leighton School Age Services. The cost is horn in the second half (afternoon session). I won’t have a voice Football Camp in Ansbach Aug. 16-18 had nearly 500 partici$150 per season. For more information call 350-7762 or otherwise.” pants. 0931-889-7762. For the coaches, it was a good way to evaluate talent before “It’s the largest ever,” said Ansbach head football coach MarGo volksmarching they began official team practices the following week. cus George. “We do so much preparation that basically we got a Explore the city of Dettelbach am Main Sept. 2-3. Volkshigher percentage (because) more people know about the camp. “We only have 17 kids in camp, and we expect to have about march either six, 11 or 20 km both days. The 20K march beIf we’d done the administrative effort we do now, there’s no 40 out for football,” said Wuerzburg head coach Eric Mead. gins at noon Sept. 2 while the six and 11K marches begin at telling how many we’d have had before.” “We’re missing a few key seniors here. The kids that are here 4 p.m. All marches begin at 6 a.m. Sept. 3. To pre-register The first day, coaches and campers faced their own unique look pretty good and they’re getting a lot of extra work that the or for more information, call 09324-2861 or 0171-907challenges. The players were run through drills while coaches other kids don’t get. In the beginning of the year that’s real valu4478. Registration closes Aug. 28 had to work hard just to be heard. Flight operations on Katterable.” Roundup Huge turnout for DoDDs-Europe camp
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