Division run kicks off Ivy Week - Fort Carson Mountaineer
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July 2, 2021 Vol. 79, No. 26
Gates 2, 6 and
19 will be closed
Monday-Tuesday
for the holiday.
Have a safe and
happy 4th of July.
Published in the interest of the Fort Carson Community. Visit the Fort Carson website at http://www.carson.army.mil.
Division run kicks off Ivy Week
Photo by Spc. Scyrrus Corregidor
Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, left, commanding general, 4th Infantry Week June 28. The division held its annual Ivy Week, which consisted of
Division and Fort Carson, alongside Command Sgt. Maj. Adam Nash, 4th culminating events that established community and esprit de corps. See
Infantry Division and Fort Carson, lead the division run, kicking off Ivy more on pages 14-15.
2 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
Commentary
DOD, Coast Guard civilians MOUNTAINEER
Commanding General:
can shop at Exchange
Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane
Garrison Commander: Col. Nate Springer
Garrison Public Affairs Officer: Dee McNutt
Chief, Print and Web Communications:
Colorado Springs Consolidated Exchanges Public Affairs Office “Exchange stores have the capacity and merchandise Rick Emert
quantities to handle the expanded shopping base,” Editor: Aleah M. Castrejon
After a change in DOD policy, the Army & Air Force Shull said. “The Exchange is honored to welcome
Exchange Service is opening its doors to DOD and Staff writer: Scott Prater
civilians while strengthening the hard-earned benefit
Coast Guard civilian employees at U.S. Air Force for Soldiers, Airmen and Guardians.” Sports writer: Walt Johnson
Academy, Peterson and Schriever Air Force bases, and The Exchange, the DOD’s largest retailer and the 61st Layout/graphics: Jeanne Mazerall
Fort Carson, which began May 1. The DOD announced largest retailer in the U.S., has served warfighters since 1895.
the policy change April 29. Access to https://www. The Exchange offers tax-free shopping and military-exclusive This commercial enterprise newspaper
shopmyexchange.com will start later this year. pricing. Exchange earnings support Soldiers, Airmen, is an authorized publication for members of the
Opening exchange access to DOD and Coast Guard Guardians and their families. Roughly 60% of earnings Department of Defense. Contents of the Mountaineer
are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed
civilian employees working on installations will improve support quality-of-life programs on military installations by, the U.S. Government or the Department of the
dividends to quality-of-life programs, leverage the military worldwide. In the last 10 years, the Exchange has contributed Army. Printed circulation is 8,000 copies.
The editorial content of the Mountaineer
exchanges’ buying power and strengthen the Exchange benefit $2.2 billion to Child and Youth Services; Armed Forces is the responsibility of the Public Affairs Office,
for Soldiers, Airmen and Guardians — past, present and future. Recreation Centers; and other programs to support troops Fort Carson, Colo., Tel.: 526-4144. The e-mail
“Shopping the Exchange brings convenience to and their families. All remaining earnings are reinvested in address is editor@fortcarsonmountaineer.com.
The Mountaineer is posted online at
civilians working on installations,” said Tom Shull, enhancing the customer shopping experience. http://www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com.
Exchange director/CEO. “They can stop by the Exchange The privilege expansion marks the third time since The Mountaineer is an unofficial publication
authorized by AR 360-1. The Mountaineer is
for essentials on breaks or to and from work instead of 2017 that the Exchange’s shopping base has grown. printed by Colorado Springs Military Newspaper
shopping outside of the gate — and 100% of Exchange In January 2020, all veterans with service-connected Group, a private firm in no way connected with
earnings go right back to the military community.” disabilities were welcomed back to the installation to the Department of the Army, under exclusive
written contract with Fort Carson. It is published
Tax-free shopping is authorized for active DOD and shop in person. On Veterans Day 2017, all honorably 49 times per year.
Coast Guard appropriated fund and non-appropriated discharged Veterans were welcomed home to shop tax The appearance of advertising in this
publication, including inserts or supplements, does
civilian employees in the U.S. and the U.S. territories free at https://www.shopmyexchange.com. not constitute endorsement by the Department of
and possessions. Retired DOD and Coast Guard civilian For more information on the new benefit, please the Army or Colorado Springs Military Newspaper
employees will have access to online exchange shopping visit the Exchange’s online AT https://publicaffairs-sme. Group, of the products or services advertised. The
publisher reserves the right to reject advertisements.
later this year. Roughly 575,000 civilian stateside com/Community/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/ItMatters Everything advertised in this publication shall
employees will gain the benefit. WhereYouShop(underscore)Web.pdf. 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 nonmerit factor
of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or
At a glance rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an
advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to
print advertising from that source until the violation
is corrected. For display advertising call 634-5905.
All correspondence or queries regarding
Military advertising and subscriptions should be directed
to Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group,
5 MI, CEMA Soldiers train for better insight 235 S. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903,
6 ‘Warhorse’ brigade welcomes new commander phone 634-5905.
The Mountaineer’s editorial content is
8 SFAB hits second stage with first edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs
Office, building 1220, room 221, Fort Carson,
command change CO 80913-5119, phone 526-4144.
8 Claymore training Releases from outside sources are so
indicated. The deadline for submissions to the
9 Competition yields NCO, SoY Mountaineer is close of business Friday the week
before the next issue is published. The Mountaineer
10 IPPS-A Release 3: Army leaders call for staff reserves the right to edit submissions for
record updates newspaper style, clarity and typographical errors.
Policies and statements reflected in the
13 Military briefs news and editorial columns represent views of the
individual writers and under no circumstances are to
14 Snapshot day 1: Ivy Week hits ground running be considered those of the Department of the Army.
Reproduction of editorial material is
authorized. Please credit accordingly.
Community 18
17 Enduring effort focuses on spiritual readiness
18 ‘Ivy Cash’ earns playoffs top seed
19 UMT practices team building events
20 The Journey (Chapel series): Display / Classified advertising
Wake up, smell the coffee 634-5905
21 Youth baseball begins Mountaineer editor
22 Community briefs 526-4144
Post information
526-5811
In addition
Post weather hotline
25 Classified 526-0096
6
July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 3
News
DHA continues
transformation with
Colorado market
By Jacob Moore
Military Health System communications
On June 22, the Defense Health Agency (DHA)
established a new direct reporting market centered in
Colorado Springs bringing 15 medical facilities under
DHA administration.
The Colorado Military Health System (MHS) Photo by Jeanine Mezei
consists of four military medical treatment facilities Place commended MTF leaders for the progress Army. Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Ronald J. Place, left, director
(MTFs) and 11 other medical clinics supporting Fort they made leading up to market establishment. of the Defense Health Agency, unfurls the Defense
Carson, the U.S. Air Force Academy, Peterson Air Force “You’re entrusted with supporting diverse Health Agency flag alongside Army Col. Kevin R. Bass,
Base, Schriever Space Force Base and Buckley Space elements of our national defense team — the cadets right, commander, Evans Army Community Hospital
Force Base. The market serves a population of about and faculty of the Air Force Academy, a major infantry and Colorado Market director, as he unveils the new
216,000 eligible Military Health System beneficiaries division of the United States Army, United States Colorado Market flag during the market establishment
and treats about 3,400 patients on an average day. NORTHCOM (Northern Command) and the United ceremony June 22 at Peterson Air Force Base. Air Force
The director of the DHA, U.S. Army Lt. Gen. (Dr.) States SPACECOM (Space Command), two of only 11 Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Vicars, second from left, 21st
Ronald Place, and the new Colorado market director, unified combatant commands, the headquarters for United Medical Group; and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Mitchell
Army Col. Kevin Bass, hosted a ceremony at Peterson Bethke, second from right, Medical Department
ushering in the new market. See DHA on Page 4 Activity-Fort Carson, assist in unveiling the flags.
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4 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
Joint warfighter exercise
Multinational partners benefit from experience
By 2nd Lt. John E. Fitzpatrick the multinational partners from the countries represented by based on modern warfighting doctrine and new capabilities.”
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office the partner sitting next to me today. This exercise improved Joint exercises are cooperative by nature, combining
our ability to not only fight tonight, but also into the future,” units with different standards, practices and technologies
Over the last three weeks, Fort Carson hosted the McFarlane said. “The 4th Inf. Div. certainly learned a lot while expecting them to work together. Col. Marie-Christine
Joint Warfighter Assessment 2021 (JWA21), which as we tested these tools, procedures and concepts across Harvey, commander of the Canadian contingent, emphasized
served as a testing ground for new technologies, tactics multiple domains: mission command, cyber, space, the historical partnerships present throughout JWA.
and operations. Soldiers with 4th Infantry Division and integration of long-range fires and capabilities. But as “This year it was a privilege to join our neighboring
multinational partners from Australia, Canada and the important as the modernization efforts (are), they provide ally and defense partner, the United States, along with
U.K. conducted an exercise from June 17-24. JWA21 is us another opportunity to prove our current warfighting long-lasting partners in peace and war, Australia and the
a “springboard operation” meant to prepare the US for capability and opportunity to fight with and learn from United Kingdom. All of our countries share a common
follow on exercises such as Project Convergence, a joint our multinational partners.” geography, history, economy and culture,” Harvey
service exercise across the U.S. military that will stress The exercise was organized and directed by the Joint said. “The defense and security relations between our
test new technologies and capabilities. Modernization Command (JMC), a unit under the Army countries are long-standing, well entrenched and highly
Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, commanding Futures Command. Col. Tobin Magsig, commander, JMC, successful, making exercises such as JWA essential to
general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, and the was critical in the planning and execution of JWA 21. remain compatible with the U.S. military, the Australian
international commanders made a joint media appearance “The Joint Warfighting Assessment is not just an Defense Force and the British army.”
June 24, where they answered questions about the exercise. experiment or an exercise, rather it’s a campaign of Unit commanders were excited to share perspectives
“For over a century, our Army’s been fighting alongside learning, and we definitely learned a lot during JWA on developing technologies and the future of the battlefield.
21,” Magsig said. “As a U.S. Army we came into Joint Brigadier Samuel Humphris of the 1st U.K. Brigade discussed
Warfighting Assessment 21 wanting to learn more about the emergent digital and cyber domain of the joint force.
multi-domain operations as we transition this concept into “If the last revolution in military affairs was about big
U.S. Army doctrine and how future Army formations sensors pushing big feeds into big ops rooms, the next will
could enable multidomain operations.” be about lots of small sensors connected on the battlefield,
Among the international units participating in JWA with some autonomy pushing information around at the
21 were the Australian 7th Combat Brigade, 5th Canadian speed that the information age requires it,” Humphris said.
Mechanized Brigade Group, and the 1st U.K. Brigade. “So that’s been sort of what we’ve been trying to get after
Each unit played a different role as a part of a multinational from a U.K. perspective and had great success with that.”
division model. Brigadier Jason Blain commanded the McFarlane closed the press conference by expressing
Australian contingent throughout the exercise. excitement for the future and emphasizing the importance
“I want to express on behalf of the Australian army our of getting direct experience with new technologies.
great thanks for the wonderful hospitality by our American “As special as all these new capabilities are, nothing
Photo by Spc. Ethan Ford brothers and sisters while we’ve been here at Fort Carson,” is as special as a U.S. Army Soldier. So I think that that’s
Members of multinational armed forces participate in the Blain said. “We have taken this opportunity to improve and the benefit; it’s not just (my) view on this stuff,” McFarlane
Joint Warfighting Assessment 2021 at Fort Carson June 21, share lessons learned so we can be more interoperable said. “We’re getting the actual operators view and feedback
which is the Army’s Annual Capstone modernization live-field and fight alongside our strategic partners to win. The based on what they see, how they can best leverage the
exercise to demonstrate and assess Multi-Domain Operations exercise was centered on leaders and Soldiers, commanding equipment, and their ideas on the ways to optimize this
concepts, capabilities and Aimpoint Formation at Echelon. robust combined-arms formations, and employing tactics stuff as we look at continued improvement.”
DHA to over 216,000 beneficiaries throughout Southern
Colorado,” said Bass. “As an integrated health care
From Page 3 system, we will optimize access to care for our
beneficiaries and maintain a ready medical force.”
States Space Force and the joint team that supports Establishing markets allows military MTFs within
NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense these markets to improve coordination with each other.
Command). That’s really impressive,” Place said. “The They work with local, federal, state and civilian health
work done by medical leaders to get to this point is entities to improve patient services. The Colorado
equally impressive.” MHS will operate as a system — sharing patients,
Place reminded those in attendance that the staff and budgets — to improve readiness and the
market will not only serve service members and their delivery and coordination of health services, regardless
Families in the Colorado Springs area, but will serve of whether the facilities are Army or Air Force.
military, Family members and retirees throughout The Colorado MHS follows the establishment
an area stretching from Wyoming to New Mexico. of five previous markets. With the addition of
Place said the integration of services in a Colorado, current DHA markets are:
combined effort was key to getting the Colorado • Central North Carolina
MHS off the ground. • Coastal Mississippi
“We’re at this ceremony today because Army • Colorado Photo by Airman Aaron Edwards
and Air Force leadership, along with their staffs, • Jacksonville The Colorado Market establishment ceremony at Peterson Air
were committed to this shared mission,” said Place. • National Capital Region Force Base June 22 includes a cake cutting with Air Force Col.
Bass, commander, Evans Army Community • Tidewater Patrick Pohle, left, commander, 21st Medical Group; Army
Hospital, and now the Colorado Military Health The complete transition of MTFs to the DHA Col. Kevin R. Bass, commander, Evans, Army Community Hospital
System director, echoed Place. includes 19 direct reporting markets, 17 small markets and Colorado Market director; Army. Lt. Gen. (Dr.) Ronald J.
“The military treatment facilities that make up and many stand-alone MTFs across the country that Place, director of the Defense Health Agency; Air Force Col.
this market have a long history of working together will report to a Small Market and Stand Alone MTF Christopher Grussendorf, commander, 10th Medical Group;
to ensure the delivery of safe and quality health care Organization, and two overseas DHA regions. and Air Force Col. Shannon Phares, 460th Medical Group.
July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 5
Military
MI, CEMA Soldiers train
for better insight Story and photo by with 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, electromagnetic frequency. Radio
Sgt. Sidnie Smith-Swift 4th Infantry Division, and cyber communication is still one of the most
4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public electromagnetic activities (CEMA) common uses of communication over
Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers learned about June 22. long distances.
In a room full of officers and enlisted With the ability to see devices on
What does a car key fob, a walkie- Soldiers, Staff Sgt. Larry Johnson, an the electromagnetic spectrum comes
talkie and a remote-control race car all electronic warfare specialist, CEMA, the risk of being seen themselves.
have in common? 4th CAB, explained the importance of A flashlight can help a person see
They all emit electromagnetic learning each other’s job. in the dark, but it can also give away a
waves, and that affects the Army’s “We give you (intelligence person’s location.
modern-day warfare, which is what analysists) raw data,” Johnson MI and CEMA have a continuous
the military intelligence (MI) Soldiers said. “You take that and turn it into relationship between those who analyze
intelligence, which you give back to us information and those who collect it.
to find more data.” MI Soldiers would not commonly use
Pfc. Christopher Wright, a military intelligence
Soldiers then split into groups and the VROD equipment, however, it gives
analyst with Headquarters and Headquarters
trained on a versatile radio observation analysists a better understanding of how
Company, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion,
and direction (VROD) system. The CEMA helps accomplish their mission.
4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation
system picked up music being played Pvt. Taylor Clark, an MI analyst,
Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, navigates to
over a handheld radio, which gave a said she was never exposed to VROD
detect electromagnetic frequencies on a
frequency for the Soldiers to follow in or similar training previously.
versatile radio observation and direction
order to determine its location. “I think this will help (us) a lot,”
system June 22 at a range on Fort Carson.
T:9.5" Many common items emit some Clark said.
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6 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
‘Warhorse’ brigade welcomes new commander
By Sgt. Gabrielle Pena
2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office,
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs
Soldiers from across the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat
Team, 4th Infantry Division, gathered during a change
of command ceremony June 25 to bid farewell to Col.
Scott Knight, outgoing commander, and welcomed
Col. Andrew Kiser, incoming commander.
The change of command ceremony is a time-honored
tradition in which the outgoing commander formally
transfers their authority to the incoming commander.
“As I come to the end of my time as ‘Warhorse’ six,
there is a bittersweet feeling that comes to me,” Knight
said. “A power made possible by the Soldiers represented
out in the field today.”
Knight assumed command of 2nd SBCT June 13,
2019. During his tenure, he led the brigade through a
rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort
Polk, Louisiana, and oversaw the brigade’s conversion
See Warhorse on Page 11
Col. Andrew Kiser, incoming commander, 2nd Stryker
Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, receives
the colors from Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane,
commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort
Carson, during 2nd SBCT’s change of command
ceremony June 25 at Founders Field.
Photo by Spc. Scyrrus Corregidor
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8 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
SFAB hits second stage with
first command change
Story and photo by Scott Prater
Mountaineer staff
The 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade held a change of command
ceremony June 24 for the first time in its history as Col. James K. Dooghan
relinquished command to Col. Robert G. Born at Founders Field.
A relatively new type of formation in today’s Army, the SFAB is
quite different than most military units. Activated at Fort Carson in early
2019, the 4th SFAB is comprised of specially trained Soldiers and was
built to enable combatant commanders to accomplish theater-security
objectives by training, advising, assisting, accompanying and enabling
allied and partnered indigenous security forces.
Most brigade-level change of command ceremonies involve the
passing of unit colors from one commander to another, signaling
the assumption of a new commander. But, like most everything, the
4th SFAB does things differently.
The ceremony reviewing officer, Maj. Gen. Scott A. Jackson,
commanding general, Security Force Assistance Command, accepted
the 4th SFAB unit colors from Dooghan and passed them on to Born
— but not before all six 4th SFAB battalion commanders accepted
their unit’s colors from Dooghan.
“This is a historic change of leadership for this organization from
one set of leaders to another. Being the first change of command, it’s a
significant milestone,” Jackson said. “And it marks an inflection point
in the unit history and development.” Maj. Gen. Scott A. Jackson, left, commanding general, Security Force Assistance Command, passes
the 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade colors to Col. Robert G. Born, incoming commander,
See SFAB on Page 12 4th SFAB, during a change of command ceremony June 24 at Founders Field.
Claymore training
Photos by Capt. Tobias Cukale
Left: Spc. Dylan Prather begins preparing
the firing wire for his M18A1 Claymore under
the instruction and supervision of Staff Sgt.
John Tanner, June 18. The M18A1 Claymore
is a command detonated directional mine
that is triggered by an observing Soldier to
detonate toward an intended target. Above:
Spc. Dylan Prather double checks the aim
of his M18A1 Claymore after installing
the blasting cap June 18.
July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 9
Competition yields NCO, SoY
By Staff Sgt. Felicia Jagdatt is a prior-service Marine, and he is my biggest source “I’m most proud of enduring the ruck march
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office of encouragement and motivation.” because I wanted to quit every step of the way, but
Motivation is just one factor a Soldier must I didn’t,” he added.
The “Ivy” Division’s NCO and Soldier of the Year have to compete at a division-echelon event, as they For Scott, this accomplishment further exposed
are Sgt. Nathaniel Richard Wada and Spc. Julia C. must go against other highly driven Soldiers. how much farther she wants to take her life and how
Scott, respectively. Wada said the two-day competition began June much more she needs to learn.
Wada, an information technology specialist with 2 with an Army Combat Fitness Test, 12-mile ruck “Gaining knowledge is always fun and challenging,”
404th Aviation Support Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation march, a recitation of the chain of command and NCO she said.
Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, is the son of Ken and support channel from the division to the commander-
Laura Wada from San Jose, California. in-chief, and an enlisted board. See Competition on Page 13
“My Family has been a pillar
of encouragement during my board
competition journey and all my
professional endeavors,” said Wada.
“I am very thankful for them.”
Scott, a public affairs specialist
with 14th Public Affairs Detachment,
Headquarters and Headquarters
Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., hails from
Southfield, Michigan. Her drive comes
from her husband Tom and children,
Alison and Madison.
“My Family gives me so much
support,” she said. “I don’t think
I could have gotten to this point
without them. My girls are my
cheerleaders, and I want them to Courtesy photo
grow up knowing they can do and Spc. Julia C. Scott, center, a public affairs specialist with 14th Public Affairs Detachment, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th
be anything they want. My husband Infantry Division, runs during an Army Combat Fitness Test at Fort Carson. Scott competed and won Soldier of the Year for the division.
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10 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
Army
officials are
encouraging
Soldiers to
update their
personnel
files from now
until Dec. 1
when they
will migrate
all personnel
records from
the three
components
to the latest
version of the
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Personnel and
Pay System
– Army. The
system is
expected to go
live Dec. 21.
IPPS-A logo
IPPS-A Release 3
Army leaders call for record updates
By Eric Pilgrim personnel offices. One of the issues with the old way revolutionizing Army pay and personnel for the future.”
Army News Service of doing business involves the sheer number of them One member of the IPPS-A team said on Jan. 7
— about 200 human resources and pay systems and that the testing phase for Release 2 helped them lead
“I need you to update your personnel records,” said over 650 interface and data exchanges between internal to its successful implementation, which also allowed
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston. The Army’s and external systems. them to usher in Release 3.
top enlisted adviser recently reached out to the entire According to the Army, the manual transactions “We started with Pennsylvania. We cut their data
Army force, alerting Soldiers to a new human resources are by nature not fully auditable, cyber or information- over, so everything they were doing had real live impacts,”
(HR) and pay system expected to go live Dec. 21. assurance compliant, nor do they allow for easy tracking said Maj. Leonard Baklarz, the Release 2 lead. “It was
Called the Integrated Personnel and Pay System – of knowledge, skills or behaviors of Soldiers within not a canned situation event. The data was real.”
Army (IPPS-A), the system is expected to revolutionize the three Army components. Part of the implementation of Release 3 is a
personnel and pay actions for all Soldiers. The ushering of IPPS-A’s Release 3, however, is downloadable device app that puts the power of human
“These innovative capabilities will bring Army expected to close all those gaps and put the power of resources directly into the hands of Soldiers. Soldiers
HR into the 21st century,” wrote Grinston to the force, tracking human resource actions into the hands can visit the IPPS-A’s mobile website to learn more.
“but we need your help to ensure the system’s success of individual Soldiers. At the site, Apple users are provided a link to the
in December.” “This change is innovative and very necessary,” said app in the Apple Store. Android users can visit the U.S.
IPPS-A first came on the scene with the Army Army officials. “With more than 1.1 million users on a Army Training and Doctrine Command’s secure App
National Guard in January 2019. The system was system with capabilities that are able to expand with time, Gateway to access that app download.
intended to be a modern, digital way to accomplish IPPS-A is becoming the new Army pay system and is “Soldiers will have access to their own personal
human resources missions. Two-and-a-half years information 24 hours a day and mobile self-
later, IPPS-A is prepared to reach the hands of service capabilities,” said Army officials.
active duty and Reserve component Soldiers, “IPPS-A’s ability to combine personnel and
as well. The goal remains the same. pay functions (e.g., a promotion or call to active
“IPPS-A will modernize Army human duty) will address current inefficiencies caused
resources, support the talent management by complex interfaces among +30 ‘stove-piped’
infrastructure, and make personnel transactions HR systems.”
transparent and mobile,” said Army officials. The IPPS-A website also offers up-to-date
“The new pay system is light years ahead of information on all new releases and upgrades,
the legacy systems and is able to communicate including their functionalities and capabilities.
with supporting personnel systems. Army officials said that while unit personnel
“Soldiers will have the ability to securely offices will still be involved in personnel actions,
make personnel, talent management and pay IPPS-A puts the onus on Soldiers to ensure their
changes from a cell phone,” Army officials added. records are accurate, before and after all IPPS-A
Prior to the release of IPPS-A, Soldiers information is migrated.
needing to update records or create pay and “The most authoritative source of correct
personnel actions have had to generate paper- (human resource) data,” said Army officials,
driven transactions at unit S1 or installation Stock image “is the individual Soldier.”July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 11
“
“(My wife) and I are Warhorse large formations. His most recent
assignment was as the commander
From Page 6 of 1st Battalion, 3rd Security Force
truly committed to help from an infantry to a Stryker formation.
Assistance Brigade, where he led
the battalion in advising the 203rd
He led the organization during the Corps and as the Train Advise
each and every one challenging COVID-19 pandemic, Assist Command-East commander
of you to ensure your
success, and I am excited
“ where the organization was still able
to maintain readiness and improve
initiatives to place people first all the
while mitigating the virus’ impact.
“It’s the efforts of Soldiers and
in Afghanistan.
“(My wife) and I are truly
committed to help each and every
one of you to ensure your success,
and I am excited to see what we can
sacrifices of their Families that make us, achieve,” Kiser said.
to see what we can achieve. our U.S. Army, successful,” Knight said.
Kiser, an infantry officer,
Knight’s next assignment will
be as chief of staff at 1st Armored
Col. Andrew Kiser is no stranger to commanding Division at Fort Bliss, Texas.
Artillerymen with Battery
A, 3rd Battalion, 29th
Field Artillery Regiment,
3rd Armored Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Infantry
Division, fire cannons
June 25 during a change
of command ceremony
for 2nd Stryker Brigade
Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.,
at Founders Field on Fort
Carson. The ceremony is
a time-honored tradition
in which the outgoing
commander formally
transfers their authority to
the incoming commander.
Photo by Sgt. Gabrielle Pena
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SFAB off — through their personal energy,
charisma, influence and vision.
force structures and changes, and an
Army-accelerated regional alignment,”
commanders, I would like to thank
Maj. Gen. Jackson for the privilege
From Page 8 “I’m sure these leaders would be the Jackson said. “These leaders made and honor of commanding this great
first to say that it wasn’t always pretty it happen and achieved irreversible organization and want to congratulate
Comparing the unit’s mission to that and some things they just had to muscle momentum. And now, they are handing the six outgoing commanders on
of a rocket launch, Jackson explained through, such as a worldwide pandemic it off to the second-stage leaders that their tremendous tenure and their
the outgoing commanders generated just prior to their Joint Readiness we see on the field.” foundational leadership,” Born said.
vital momentum — like a first stage lift Training Center rotation; evolving Born comes to Fort Carson and the “They should all be extremely proud of
4th SFAB from the National War College, their contributions. I am also grateful to
in Washington D.C., with follow-on Col. Dooghan for all that he has done
duty on the joint staff, serving in both to set the conditions for our success
the readiness and Indo-Pacific Joint within the 4th SFAB and its Families.”
Operations Directorates. He is a graduate Though he bids farewell to the 4th
of the U.S. Military Academy at West SFAB, Dooghan won’t be leaving. He
Point and has subsequently earned many will be assuming the role of deputy
achievements, including the Bronze Star commanding officer for Maneuver of
Medal, Defense Meritorious Service the 4th Infantry Division Friday.
Medal and the Army Commendation “The 4th ID is going to be the
Medal, among others. He also holds the beneficiary of his (Dooghan’s) tremendous
Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Ranger leadership,” Born said. “It is truly an
Tab, the Army Parachutist Badge and honor to assume command and begin
Air Assault Badge. the next chapter of 4th SFAB’s short but
“On behalf of the six new battalion very consequential history.”
Photos by Scott Prater
Above: From left: Col. James K. Dooghan, former
commander, 4th Security Force Assistance
Brigade; Maj. Gen. Scott A. Jackson, commanding
general, Security Force Assistance Command; and
Col. Robert G. Born, incoming commander, 4th
SFAB, prepare for an official transfer of command
June 24 at Founders Field.
Right: From left: Col. Robert G. Born,
commander, 4th Security Force Assistance
Brigade; Maj. Gen. Scott A. Jackson,
commanding general, Security Force Assistance
Command; and Col. James K. Dooghan, former
commander, 4th SFAB, prepare for an official
transfer of command June 24 at Founders Field.
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Military briefs
Editor’s note: See www.fortcarsonmountaineer.com for the complete list of military
briefs. Due to the COVID-19 closures and cancellations, contact the respective points
of contact for updated information and hours of operation.
Of note
OCIE turn in — Soldiers do not have to wait for clearing papers to schedule
organizational clothing and individual equipment (OCIE) turn in. Soldiers can
schedule appointments for 120 days out from permanent change of station (PCS),
expiration-term of service (ETS), or retirement with a signed memorandum by
the Soldier’s company commander approving early turn in of OCIE equipment.
The other option is for Soldiers to schedule on their own 90 days out from PCS,
ETS or retirement with a copy of their orders. To schedule an appointment, log
into “AKO”, click “My Clothing Record” then click the hyperlink in the bottom
left-hand corner titled “CIF Appointments” or call 719-526-3321 and a customer
service representative will assist with scheduling.
Personal trainer certificate — III Corps will pay for a certificate to be a personal
trainer. Requirements are for active-duty specialists (promotable) through first
lieutenants: Army Physical Fitness Test score must be greater than 239, must be able
to complete total Army Combat Fitness Test, no administrative flags in 12 months
See Briefs on Page 16
Sgt. Nathaniel Richard Wada, an
information technology specialist with
404th Aviation Support Battalion,
4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th
Infantry Division, conducts training
at Fort Carson. Wada competed and
won NCO of the year for the division.
Courtesy photo
Competition me was learning to manage my own
stress levels. It was important for me
From Page 9 to focus on staying calm and confident,
even when I didn’t feel confident at all.”
The challenge is not only in the Additionally, Scott leaned on
event itself but also in the preparation. her military support system, and she
The way Wada studied for the board thanked her “incredible leadership”
was reading the official Department within the PAD, HHBN and the
of the Army and DOD publications, Division PAO office.
gleaning on major bullet points and being Wada said he was thankful for the
creative with the way he studied. He also “steadfast dedication” of his leaders
found glossaries to be very helpful. and teammates. The contributions
Scott agreed, having done many of the CAB’s supply operations and
of the same things to get ready for the sustainment and automation support
competition. management office teams cannot
“I made a lot of flashcards, read be measured, and he is extremely
a lot of study guides and books, grateful for them.
and conducted a lot of PT (physical Winning matters at the Ivy
training) to prepare,” Scott said. “I Division, and the two Soldiers went
had to balance studying with taking on to attend the III Corps competition
breaks. Probably, the biggest piece for board in late June.14 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021 July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 15
Feature
Snapshot day 1
By 2nd Lt. John E. Fitzpatrick A snapshot of the first day’s events began 4.47 miles while stopping to perform Army the week. Other sporting events included
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office with the Ivy Division run at 6:30 a.m., where tasks along the route. Other Soldiers were an ultimate frisbee tournament, basketball,
Ivy Week hits
every unit in the division conducted a formation competing in an obstacle course, pistol and rifle baseball and dodgeball.
The 4th Infantry Division celebrated its run. Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, competition as well as incorporating aspects Ivy Week is planned to end Friday
iconic history this week by hosting Ivy Week commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort of the Army Combat Fitness Test, such as the from 5-10 p.m. with the Freedom Fest
from June 28 through Friday. Carson; and Command Sgt. Maj. Adam Nash, weightlifting competition. Teams from each featuring Joe Nichols, fireworks and
Ivy Week is a weeklong event that brought 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, led the formation battalion conducted a competition across three food trucks. Visit https://carson.
ground running
Soldiers together from all units to compete in team on a 3-mile course around Fort Carson. different lifts: bench-press, squat and deadlift. armymwr.com/calendar/event/
and individual sports and build esprit de corps. After the run, many of the events happened Teams from each battalion kicked off 58983 for a list of times, parking
This year the 4th Inf. Div. highlighted simultaneously. the softball tournament at the same time and prohibited items. The event
several key themes including operation “People The Best Squad Competition began at 10 Monday, all vying for the Commander’s Cup, is open to all DOD ID
First,” winning matters, legacy and lethality. a.m. and consisted of nine-man squads running which is awarded to the overall winning unit of card holders.
Photo by Spc. Scyrrus Corregidor
Above: Soldiers with 4th Infantry Division fire a cannon every time a brigade
passes a turn June 28 during the 3-mile division run that kicked off Ivy Week. Photo by Sgt. Gabrielle Pena
Above: Soldiers conduct deadlifts during Ivy Week
best squad competition at a 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat
Team field June 28.
Photo by Spc. Scyrrus Corregidor
Above: Soldiers use teamwork and grit to overcome the obstacles course during Ivy week June 28. Each unit
had Soldiers competing for the Commander’s Cup.
Right: A 4th Infantry
Photo by Capt. Jake Valdick
Division Soldier prepares
to throw the Frisbee to a
teammate June 28 at Ivy
Sports Field.
Photo by Spc. Woodlyne Escarne
Above: Soldiers with 4th
Infantry Division compete
Left: Sgt. Luke Kron, with Headquarters
against each other in a
and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry
basketball game to build
Division, tags out Pfc. Kristopher
camaraderie June 28 at Iron Photo by Spc. Emmanuel Jeanmarie
Munoz, with 1st Battalion, 66th Armor
Photo by Sgt. Ashton Empty Horse Park. Above: Ivy Soldiers prove their lethality with a bang
Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat
Above: Soldiers dodged and weaved June 28 during the dodgeball tournament to during the Ivy Week pistol competition June 28 at a
Team, 4th Inf. Div., during a softball
score points toward winning the Commander’s Cup, the prize for the overall winning range on Fort Carson.
game June 28 celebrating Ivy Week at
unit of Ivy Week.
the Ivy Gym Softball Field.
Photo by Sgt. James Geelen16 MOUNTAINEER | July 2, 2021
Briefs
From Page 13
and have 12-month stability at CMPY. Interested participants can call 719-503-0910
or email Maj. Nathan Henry at nathan.e.henry4.mil@mail.mil or Sgt. Maj. Gersom
Jimenez at gersom.i.jimenez.mil@mail.mil.
DOD-funded research study — The study is for active-duty service members and
is sponsored by the Department of the Army (USAMRAA) and has also been
approved by the University of Arizona Institutional Review Board, as well as
HRPO (Human Research Protection Office). Research study will examine the
effects of an internet-based awareness training program on psychological health
and emotional functioning in active duty military personnel. Eligible participants
will receive $400 total for completion of all study activities. Study participants
will: complete two, approximate three-hour online assessment sessions; and
complete a nine to 11-hour online awareness training program. Participants will
be randomly assigned to one of two different awareness training programs to
assess how each affects psychological functioning. Interested service members
RE
may fill out the online interest form at https://uarizona.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/
IME TO
form/SV(underscore)e5PoQAy5VrE0jQx or email awarenesstrainingstudy@
gmail.com for further questions.
Hours of operation
Directorate of Public Works work orders — Directorate of Public Works Business
Operations and Integration Division Work Management Branch, located in building
1219, is responsible for processing work orders (Facilities Engineering Work Requests,
ELEBRATE
DA Form 4283). The Work Management Branch is open for processing work orders
and other in-person support from 7-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday. Afternoon customer
support is by appointment only and can be scheduled by calling 526-6112.
MORE
“TIME TO
OF JULY”
Fort Carson Ivy Warrior
TH Restaurants hours of operation:
CELEBRATE
Friday
Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dinner: Closed
4 OF JULY”TH
Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.
arfighter
W Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.
(Wilderness Road) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
E EXCITED TO WELCOME YOU BACK! LaRochelle 10th SFG(A) Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
reek is an open possibility, a chance to get out and explore more. Dinner: Closed
July weekend,WE ARE there’s
ARE EXCITED something TO WELCOME for everyone
WELCOME YOU – Patriotic
BACK! 5K Run/
WE EXCITED TO YOU BACK! Saturday-Tuesday
c Golf Tournament,
Cripple Creek
indoor/outdoor
is an open possibility,
market, art show, kids carnival,
possibility,aaa chance
chance to get out and explore more. S tack, Warfighter (Wilderness Road) and Closed
zone, tug ofThiswar,
Cripple
Cripple
This
th
4th
beanbag
Creek is
Creek
4th ofof July
July
is an
an open
weekend,
weekend,
toss,there’shorse
open possibility,
there’s
chanceto
something
something for
for
to get
get out
out and
everyone
everyone
and explore
exploremore.
–– Patriotic
Patriotic 5K
5K
more.
Run/
Run/ LaRochelle 10th SFG(A)
This of July
4 Disc Golfweekend, there’s something for everyone – Patriotic 5K Run/
d’s stories, beer
Walk,
Walk,
Walk, garden,
Disc
Disc Golf
Golf food
Tournament,
Tournament,
Tournament, vendors,
indoor/outdoor
indoor/outdoor
indoor/outdoor
market,
market,
market,
art show,
art
art
show,
show,
kids carnival,
kids
kids
carnival,
carnival,
family fun zone,
zone, tug tug ofwar,
war,beanbag
beanbagtoss, toss,horse
horse
museum tours, familytrain
family
shoes,
fun
funkid’s
rides,
zone, tug of
stories, ofmine
beerwar,garden, tours,
beanbag foodtoss, horse
vendors, Wolf Brunch: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
eet & greets, andkid’s
shoes,
shoes,
archery,
museum
archery,
the
tours,longest,
kid’s
museum
museum
stories,
stories,tours,
train
food
beer train
rides,
tours,
biggest,
train
vendors,
garden,
mine rides,
rides,
food
mine
tours,
mine
archery,
vendors,
tours,
donkey
tours, Supper: 5-6:30 p.m.
ting fireworks in the
donkey
meet
donkey & meetPikes
greets,
meet &
& and Peak
greets,
greets,the and
and region.
the
longest,
the
longest,
biggest,
longest,
biggest,
most
biggest,
most exciting
exciting fireworks
fireworks in theininPikes
the Pikes
PeakPeakPeak region.
region.
most exciting fireworks the Pikes region.
visit today, VisitCrippleCreek.com
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Wednesday-Thursday
Plan your visit today, VisitCrippleCreek.com
Stack Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.
Wolf Breakfast: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30-7 p.m.
arfighter
W Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.
Special thanks to the Gold Camp Association, Two Mile High Club, Gold Camp Victorian Society, (Wilderness Road) Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Special thanks
American to the
Legion, GoldMine
Aspen Camp Association,
Center, Two Mile
Butte Theater, CCHigh
ParksClub, Gold
& Rec, CCCamp Victorian
Heritage Society,
Tourism, Teller Dinner: 5-6:30 p.m.
American Legion,
County Rifles, Aspen
Victor Mine Center,
Business Butteand
Association, Theater, CC Parks
the District & Rec, CC Heritage Tourism, Teller
Museum.
County Rifles, Victor Business Association, and the District Museum.
Special thanks to the Gold Camp Association, Two Mile High Club, Gold Camp Victorian Society,
LaRochelle 10th SFG(A) Breakfast: 7:30-9 a.m.
nks to the Gold CampLegion,
American Association,
Aspen Mine Two Mile
Center, High
Butte Club,CCGold
Theater, ParksCamp Victorian
& Rec, CC Heritage Society,
Tourism, Teller Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
County Rifles, Victor Business Association, and the District Museum.
egion, Aspen Mine Center, Butte Theater, CC Parks & Rec, CC Heritage Tourism, Teller Dinner: Closed
es, Victor Business Association, and the District Museum.July 2, 2021 | MOUNTAINEER 17
Community
Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, Army chief
of chaplains, explains the vision of the
Spiritual Readiness Pilot during day two of
the event at McMahon Auditorium June 28.
Enduring effort focuses on spiritual readiness
Story and photos by Scott Prater Readiness Pilot, explained the Army is facing Fort Carson, joined McFarlane during the breakout
Mountaineer staff unprecedented, generationally imposed challenges sessions and highlighted the Army’s Five Dimensions
— instances of suicide, depression, substance abuse of Strength during his talk with brigade Soldiers.
Fort Carson hosted a collaborative spiritual and misuse, behavioral addictions and other harmful “Once we started this endeavor to really get to
readiness event this week, where Soldiers, behaviors are rising in today’s ranks, especially know our people and this People First initiative,
commanders, chaplains and helping-agency among those ages 18-25. we began addressing every single one of these
professionals learned how spirituality enhances The Spiritual Readiness Pilot is an effort to (dimensions) except for spiritual readiness,” Nash
personal well-being and increases resiliency across combat these negative trends. The pilot program is a said. “When you think about physical, we get after
formations. traveling training system for Soldiers, commanders that every day, social and Family — we’ve addressed
Spiritual fitness involves an individual’s and helping-agency professionals. The Mountain that through different venues like our Soldier and
connection to purpose, guiding values and to others, Post training session included three days of seminars Family Readiness Groups, exercising the golden
and is one of the five dimensions of holistic health focused on training and discussions. triangle, and really getting near our Soldiers. The
along with physical, emotional, social and mental. Dr. Lisa Miller, a professor of clinical one avenue that we haven’t dove head-first into the
Spiritual readiness professionals from Army psychology at Columbia University and a keynote deep end with is … spiritual readiness. It’s very
chief of chaplains, Army Behavioral Health and speaker during the event, said humans are inherently tough to overcome if we don’t invest in that area.”
Columbia University partnered with the Mountain spiritual, regardless of religious affiliation and those Contending that the words “spirituality” and
Post to share their knowledge, expertise and who practice spiritual behaviors often have more “religion” can often shut some people down,
wisdom about pivotal topics that affect most positive outcomes. McFarlane said the Spiritual Readiness Pilot
everyone, but especially Soldiers. “Miller provides the science behind spirituality effort isn’t about proselytizing, but about
Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, Army chief of and shows that it does make a difference for understanding how people can be better equipped
chaplains, and the driving force behind the Spiritual protective factors,” said Lt. Col. Jon Knoedler, to handle life’s downturns.
chaplain, 4th Infantry Division. “Now, we have a scientific connection with what
“Having a sense of spirituality our purpose is, and we’ll have good discussions,
lowers those rates of suicide, but I ask you to be open minded throughout the
depression, substance abuse and session,” McFarlane said. “If you look at purpose,
high-risk behaviors among people.” meaning and hope, those are all real things that most
Maj. Gen. Matthew W. everyone needs.”
McFarlane, commanding general, Col. Mark Stewart, senior command chaplain,
4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, was 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, indicated that while
instrumental in bringing the event pilot leaders delivered a host of information and
to the Mountain Post and even guidance during the training event, the pilot concept
addressed brigade breakout sessions is intended to be an enduring effort for Fort Carson
during day two. leaders and local collaborators.
“This isn’t a train-the-trainer “Increasing readiness is the goal,” he said.
program,” he said. “This is part of “It’s our hope that this will be part of the battle
our ‘People First’ initiative as we rhythm for units. We’ll have systems in place and
strive to help counsel and develop reoccurrences throughout the weeks, months and
our Soldiers to not only succeed in years, but we also want to increase opportunities
Command Sgt. Maj. Adam Nash, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, the Army but succeed in life.” for cross referrals, like through Army Community
talks to Soldiers during a breakout session June 28 during the Spiritual Command Sgt. Maj. Adam Nash, Service, behavioral health, military family life
Readiness Pilot event at McMahon Auditorium. senior enlisted leader, 4th Inf. Div. and consultants and other vital resources.”You can also read
