Staff Sgt. Archie, 67th Engineer

32 Pages·2006·1.24 MB·English

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The Official Publication of the Society of the Third Infantry Division, United States Army
Vol. 88 No. 1 “Nous Resterons La” August 2006
Paws pound sand
MG Rick Lynch, Commander
3rd ID to Attend Reunion!
Story and photos by Sgt. Ann Drier
Each dog is awarded rank in the Army Please make
363rd MPAD
S system, and receives special treatment your reservations!
taff Sgt. Archie, 67th Engineer
by the system and their handler.
Detachment, greets everyone with
Sheraton Downtown
warmth and friendliness. His tail
1-615-259-2000
program. They undergo a training period
wags and his tongue lolls from his mouth
of about three months before being placed
as he places both huge paws on his visi-
with a handler.
tor’s chest and gives them a dead-on look
Reunion 2006
in the eyes. “I went to train under Roger Tredwell,
Nashville Awaits
who’s been doing this kind of thing for 30
Staff Sgt. Figo greets her visitors with a
years,” said Sgt. Daniel Broda, of 67th
serious stare, more aloof than her counter- 3ID Vets
Engineer Detachment, handler for Staff
part, but still friendly. She’ll gladly accept
a pet on the head, for a moment or two, Sgt. Figo. “I didn’t see my dog for quite a The 87th National reunion of the
while. He can judge in one week which
before turning to more important business. Society of the Third Infantry
dog to team up with each handler. He
The 67th Engineer Detachment adopt- Division is only a few weeks away. We
makes the choice based on personality and
ed the program, begun by the British army, are looking forward a good turnout of
temperament of both the dog and the han-
using dogs to find explosives and contra- veterans and associates, family mem-
dler. Most of the time it works out. ”
band, almost three years ago. Most of the bers and friends. All are welcome.
dogs are found in pounds or donated to the “Figo is a Lab and Springer spaniel Please make your reservations at the
mix, so she’s a bit high strung. She’s very hotel as soon as possible. It also helps
with planning to know how many will
Please turn to PAWSon page 5
be in attendance. Your early reunion
registration is also appreciated. Linda
LEFT:SSgt Archie on Patrol with his handler Sgt Irvine, our reunion planner and coordi-
Mathew McKee nator, always does an excellent job, and
BELOW:SSgt Fido on Alert the hospitality rooms are always first
class.
With the change in command of the
division and its recent return to the US,
it is a little early to give you informa-
tion on the make up of the 3rd Inf. Div.
(Mech.) delegation to the reunion. The
division always supports us wonderful-
ly well, and we look forward to being
with the active members of the division.
The regimental units will be holding
their dinners, and members of the
attached units of the division are always
welcome at any of these dinners. You
can find information about them else-
Please turn to NASHVILLEon page 4
Since 1919 (cid:2) (cid:2) (cid:2) The Oldest Continuous Army Division Association
The Watch on the Rhine
The Watch on the Rhine is the official publication of The Society of the Third Infantry Division, U.S. Army. The Watch
on the Rhine is published bi-monthly for members of the Society by Finisterre Publishing Incorporated, 3 Black
Skimmer Ct., Beaufort, SC 29907 ([email protected]). Asubscription may be obtained at a cost of $15 by applying to
the National Headquarters, The Society of the Third Infantry Division-U.S. Army, 10 Paddington Ct., Hockessin, DE
19707. Contributions and suggestions are welcome and should be sent to Cath Bacon, Editor, POBox 7069,
Hampton, VA23666-7069.
Officers & Staff* 2005-2006
Committeeman Gordon Lowery
Honorary President Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch
1523 Holiday Dr.
Commanding General 3rd
Sandwich, IL 60548
Infantry Division (Mech)
[phone]
Editor* Cath Bacon e-mail: [email protected]
POBox 7069
Western Region VP Carl R. Duncan
Hampton, VA 23666-7069
14617 Shiprock Dr
[phone]
Sun City, AZ 85351
e-mail: [email protected]
[phone]
President Angelo “Jim” Tiezzi
Committeeman John B. Shirley
14186 Hilton Head Dr.
4218 Drake Way
Ft. Myers, FL 33919-7387
Livermore, CA 94550-4914
[phone] (winter)
[phone] FAX: [phone]
[phone] (summer)
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Committeeman Nile Stuart
Immediate Past Jerome A. Manley
1720 Elmsford Ave.
President 660 Marigold Terrace
La Habra, CA 90631
Fridley, MN 55432
[phone]
[phone]
email: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Historian Edward Dojutrek
Active Duty Liaison* Dennis Noes
3303 Far View Dr.
11649 Buckhead Trail
Austin, TX 78730
Bryceville, FL 32009-2541
[phone]
[phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Chaplain Charles C. Trout
Secretary-Treasurer Raymond C. Anderson
10191 Birchwood Dr.
10 Paddington Ct.
Huntington Beach, CA 92646-5432
Hockessin, DE 19707
[phone]
[phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Judge Advocate Jerry Kraft
Eastern Region VP John Fisher
719 Colorado St., Apt 5-C
36 Alden Rd
Austin, TX 78701-3026
Paramus, NJ 07652-3708
[phone] FAX [phone]
[phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
e-mail: [email protected]
Medical Officer Bae Suk Lee, MD
Committeeman Robert D. Bailey
3151 Brinton Trail
160 Huguley Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Opelika, AL 36804-1891
[phone]
(334( 298-8622
e-mail: [email protected] Sergeant-at-Arms Henry H. Burke
Committeeman Clyde E. Easter 1122 Palisades Circle
299 Panorama Dr. Columbia SC 29223-3409
Fancy Gap, VA 24328 [phone]
[phone] e-mail: [email protected]
Central Region VP Jerome A. Manley Webmaster/ Richard W. Heller
660 Marigold Terrace Database Manager* 1515 Ramblewood Dr.
Fridley, MN 55432 Hanover Park, IL 60133-2230
[phone] [phone]
e-mail: [email protected] e-mail:[email protected]
Committeeman (open) Website: http://www.3rdiv.org
Committees 2005-2006
Constitution and John Shirley
Membership Chairman Richard R. Gallmeyer Bulaws Committee 4218 Drake Way
1125 Evert Dr. Livermore, CA 94550-4914
Virginia Beach, VA 23464-5007 [phone] FAX: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
Audit Committee Mark W. Sneddon
6355 Topanga Cyn Blvd #225
Woodland Hills, CA 91367 Awards Committee & Lynn Ball
[phone] Scholarship Foundation 2010 Worcester Ln.
Garland, TX 75040
Nominations Committee Robert D. Bailey [phone]
160 Huguley Rd. e-mail: [email protected]
Opelika, AL 36804-1891
[phone] Public Relations Carl Q. Topie
e-mail: [email protected] Committee 27 Apple Lane
Milford, OH 45150
[phone]
e-mail: [email protected]
PPrreessiiddeenntt’’ss MMeessssaaggee
Jim Tiezzi
Since this will be my
last message to the The latest status on our membership drive as of July 1 is that current membership
membership as I will has grown to over 3,785. The objective is to have 4,000 members
complete my two year
term in September, I
want to thank all of and each will inform the other of the votes. placement of 3ID plaques in the town
you for your support Again, I apologize for the error, but if you are squares. Under the direction of CAPT
during my tenure as not able to attend the reunion this year, please Monika and LTC Tim Stoy, this project has
National President. vote. the purpose of reminding the townspeople of
The Executive Board Our current Auditor has asked to be their liberation by the 3ID during WWII. A
Jim Tiezzi, President
Society of the 3rd Inf Div and I have had a very relieved of his duties after he completes the ceremony is held with the town dignitaries
busy two years, and I audit for the 2005-2006 FY. We thank him present and Monika and the town Mayor
am pleased to say that much was accom- for his gratis past services to the Society and each make a speech. At the end of the cere-
plished for the benefit of the Society and its wish him well in the future. If anyone knows mony, the dignitaries and the townspeople
members. of a member that is a CPA, preferably on the are presented with a memento of the 3ID so
I thank all of the Excom members for East coast, please contact our National that they can always remember that it was the
their support and their participation in the Secretary/Treasurer Ray Anderson. 3ID that liberated their town. The Society is
many subjects that we have covered over the Dennis Noes, Active Duty Liaison, my currently providing some of these small
past two years. We have spent much time on wife and I attended the Change of Command mementos so as to partner with the Stoys to
business via emails and have moved forward of the 3ID at Ft. Stewart on June 13 which keep the history of the 3ID and of the Society
in many ways. Thanks also to the entire Staff was held indoors because of the rain. It was alive in the French towns liberated by Marne
and the Committee Chairs and their commit- an impressive event, and we had the oppor- soldiers in WWII. Our teamwork will con-
tees for their extra effort in helping the tunity to meet the new CG, MG Rick Lynch. tinue the great mission of firmly establishing
Society to be in a better position than it was I presented him with a framed Honorary the Marne Trail.
in the past. Finally, I want to thank the President of the Society certificate, member- I have enjoyed being your President and
Outpost Presidents and Secretary/Treasurers ship card, a letter of welcome to the 3ID, a have tried to work diligently to increase our
who supported the recruiting programs and second letter inviting him to the Nashville membership and also to introduce programs
have helped the Society grow. reunion and the book, “The History of the that would be of benefit to our members and
The latest status on our membership drive 3ID in WW II.” He is a fine man and I to the Society. There is more yet to be done
as of July 1 is that current membership has believe the Society will have an excellent and I am confident that our new President
grown to over 3,785. There will be even relationship with the active duty personnel will continue to offer new ideas that will
more by the time you read this message. The under his leadership and visa versa. keep the Society growing in the future. I will
objective is to have 4,000 members by the Welcome aboard, Sir! We look forward to support our new President in any way I can
time the Nashville reunion begins in early having you at the Nashville Reunion in and thus continue to help the Society as well.
September, and we are on target to hit the September! Thanks for the opportunity to have been
mark. If each one of us can make a little extra I am pleased to report that the “Marne of service to a great organization.
effort to just get your “one new member by Trail” in France will be having several more Rock of the Marne,
September” it will bring us over the objective events in French towns in conjunction with Jim
and give us a little cushion that can off set the
losses that we will get from deceased mem-
Check your label
bers and unpaid members. If you are one of
any members who might have forgotten to Dues Date: Paid until date
pay your annual dues, please do so now and Your ID shown or LIFE Outpost Affiliation
Number
help us to save the Society and OP
Secretaries time and money in following up Important: If bar-
*************************************************5 Digit code does not
to assist you keep your membership current. 3928 June 2007 OP 3 extend across full
On behalf of everyone concerned, I am ALTAMILLING label, your zip code
4738 DATURA RD does not have 9
sorry for the error in the pull out section of COLUMBIA SC 29205-2109 digits and your
address is not cor-
the Elections and Constitution & By-laws
DELIVERYPOINTBARCODE rect according to
ballots in the June Watch, but don’t let that the USPS. Contact
Check your name and address ( Apt./Bldg/Lot No.). Notify the Membership your local Post
deter you from voting. You can send your
Chairman if you find an error. If your zip code does not contain 9 digits Office for proper
entire ballots to either Bob Bailey or Jerry (zip+4), your address is not correct according to the USPS. Contact your local format.
Post Office for proper format.
Manley; they will record your vote properly,
June 2006 Page 3
FFrroomm tthhee EEddiittoorr’’ss BBuunnkkeerr
NASHVILLE from page 1
Cath Bacon
Nashville is a great convention city
and they will show us a good time.
Hello Team-mates, Some of our members have not received The tours and events all sound very
It’s almost Reunion Time, and you can their issues until mid-month or later; enjoyable. I hope many of you can
feel the excitement growing. By the time
please accept my apology and my attend.
you receive your August issue, it will be
assurance that we are trying to
just about a month till we rendezvous in
where in The Watch. Participants of the
improve.
Nashville.
1994 and 2004 battlefield tours will
I want to let all of you know that the also gather as is the custom; time and
publisher and I are working on trying to more light-hearted. During these dog-days location of these gatherings will be
get the Watchto you sooner. We know that of summer, I hope you’ll enjoy this dog- announced at the reunion.
there are some delivery delay issues, but gone issue—and as for our motorcycle I hope many of our new Society
to be honest, we cannot nail the cause, but emphasis this month, well, the Society’s members can attend. We especially
we are working on it. Some of our mem- Marne Riders and many of our active duty welcome all those who have served in
bers have not received their issues until 3ID Marne compatriots have gone hog the division at any time or place. KW
mid-month or later; please accept my wild for hogs. (Yes, I did mean to use veterans now outnumber WW II veter-
apology and my assurance that we are try- those awful puns.) ans on our roster; hopefully there will
ing to improve. It’s an honor to serve, be many KWVets at the reunion. In the
You will notice that this issue is a bit future, it is my sincere hope that our
Cath
Society ranks will include many more
veterans of the Cold War, Desert Storm,
Status of 2006-07 Society Dues
and the Global War against Terrorism
(GWAT) at home and in Afghanistan
Rich Heller OP Unpaid OP Unpaid and Iraq as well.
Society of the 3rd ID Webmaster I always enjoy talking to veterans.
OP1................14 OP22................2 Every one of them has a great story to
Having just completed another year
OP2................97 OP33..............15 tell. Hopefully, you will meet someone
maintaining the Society member-
OP3................28 OP35..............19 you served with, but after attending a
ship database, I want to thank all those
OP4..................8 OP52................1 few reunions you will have made good
members who have kept me informed of
OP5................71 OP54..............40 friends. It’s always good to see them.
changes of addresses, death notices and
OP7................47 OP57..............26 Nashville is a great convention city
corrections to the recently published
OP11..............34 OP5845..........60 and they will show us a good time. The
Society Roster.
OP12..............18 OP60..............34 tours and events all sound very enjoy-
I also want to thank the members who
OP13..............18 OP601..............7 able. I hope many of you can attend. My
sent their annual dues to me before the
OP15..............41 OP63..............22 best wishes for a fine summer, and I
end of June. This makes my task of
OP17..............35 OP88..............21 hope to see you in Nashville!
recording the dues data easier in addition
OP18................8 OPMA..........133 John Shirley
to ensuring that you do not miss an issue
OP21................3 FBA ..............40 Reunion Chair
of The Watch on the Rhine.
I especially appreciate those Outposts
Calendar: Retiree
Many organizations ask that donations
that collect their own dues for doing a
be made in Memory or Honor of people in Appreciation Days
yeoman’s job and taking some of the pres-
the name of the Organization. You’ll see it
sure off of me. Aug 4-5 ......Tobyhanna Army
This year we have also sent out “Keep in obit notices especially. ....................Depot, PA
This is a caring way to honor someone
in Touch” cards to all of our Life mem- Sep 1 ..........Ft McCoy, WI
special or recognize an occasion if you
bers, and we appreciate any information
Sep 8-9 ......Ft Leonard Wood, MO
would like to make a donation in memory
that you can provide us. As a reminder, all
of a loved one or in honor of a person’s Sep 9 ..........Redstone Arsenal, AL
information is held confidential, and is
only used for Society business. birthday or anniversary (or other occa- Oct 14..........Ft Monmouth, NJ
sions), please just add a note with the per-
Dues … Are Still Due Oct 27..........Ft Meade, MD
son’s and/or family’s name and address.
Statistics as of late June. List of unpaid Oct 27-28....Ft Knox, KY
The Society will send an acknowledge-
members by Outpost. Reminder: no dues,
ment of your donation to the appropriate Oct 28 ........Ft. Leavenworth, KS
no Watch.
parties. Nov 3 ........Ft Benning, GA
Another idea about donations…
Page 4 The Watch on the Rhine
PAWS from page 1
Staff Sgt. Figo has taken sniper fire – and it was directed
at her specifically. I’ve heard that there is a $200,000
bounty for the man that brings back her ear.”
independent,” said Broda. “It took quite a $200,000 bounty for the man that brings
while before we were able to bond. I didn’t back her ear.”
think it was going to work out because she All the dogs trained for this mission Camp Green Dog
wouldn’t listen. Then one day it just have a tattoo of their ‘serial number’ in
*
clicked. Now we’re inseparable. She goes their ear to identify them. Somehow the “I wouldn’t give a bean to be a
with me everywhere.” insurgents learned of this and have identi- fancy pants Marine–I’d rather be
The pair has been together for almost fied which animal to target. This has made +
a Dog-face Soldier like I am...”
two years now, sharing the same sleeping it more dangerous for Staff Sgt. Figo to
space (soon to be kennels), and daily rou- work outside the parameters of the Victory
NJ Set to Get War
tine. “It feels weird when she’s not with Complex. Some of their missions are with-
me, like not having my weapon with me. in the Victory Complex, providing a much
Dog Memorial
Our dogs are actually more important than needed break from constant exposure to
our weapons because we can’t do our mis- Combat Stress. These missions keep the
sion without them,” said Broda. teams sharp for missions in the field and Man’s best friend has contributed to
Each dog is awarded rank in the Army safe from sniper fire. U.S. war efforts for many years,
so it is only fitting to have an official
system, and receives special treatment by “She’s only got a little while left here,”
war dog memorial to honor the service
the system and their handler. “The dogs are said Broda. “Our tour is almost up and
of these canine companions.
always one step higher in rank than their we’ll get to go home. Then we’ll get some
handler in case of abuse,” said Broda. “If a time off and she can play all she wants for Military canines make contributions
handler abuses the animal he’s subject to a while.” every day while they serve in our mili-
UCMJ action. If I get promoted, she gets Playing is a special treat for dogs with tary. They are hard working and do a
promoted as well.” such an important mission. “They have great job of saving the lives of their han-
dlers and the troops who walk in their
The dogs, usually Labrador retrievers or special toys they like to play with, like the
footsteps. The United States War Dogs
a Labrador mix, are given rigorous training tennis balls. Play is her treat for doing a
Association, a nonprofit organization, is
and their relationship with their handlers is good job. We don’t give them food treats,
made up of current and former military
very important. When working they wear a that would make them lazy, but, when we
dog handlers and is committed to edu-
special harness and they know that when play ball with them, and they don’t have to
cating the public about the invaluable
wearing it, it’s time to work. “They won’t wear the harness, that is a treat.”
service the dogs provide.
work without their harness,” said Broda. “Engineer Specialized Search Dog
Recently, the association successful-
And work they do. Staff Sgt. Figo has Teams are definitely a force multiplier for
ly lobbied the state of New Jersey to
been at the Victory complex almost two all Combat and Combat Support operations
place an official war dog memorial
years. During that time she has found many and have proven their ability and worth
alongside the New Jersey Vietnam
caches of weapons and stockpiles of muni- during multiple military operations. The
Veterans Memorial, in Holmdel, N.J. It
tions. She was awarded a Bronze Star and a dog teams are highly-trained professionals
will be the first official memorial that
Combat Action medal during her deploy- and perform every mission in a superior
honors these dogs.
ment to Iraq. Because she is so good at her manner. From a command perspective,
job, she has become quite well known they are invaluable,” said Robin Timmons, The association raised most of the
amongst the insurgent populace. Brigadier General, 16th Engineer Brigade funds for the war dog memorial on its
“They can clear an area one hundred (Theater Army) Commander. own and hired sculptor Bruce Lindsay
to design a statue of dog and handler
times faster than soldiers can,” said Sgt. Staff Sgt. Figo is returning home with
Mathew McKee, Staff Sgt. Archie’s han- Sgt. Broda, and Staff Sgt. Archie will pick For more information visit their website
dler, “because they can smell through the up where she leaves off. He’s been learning at: www.military.com/Military Report/
walls. This makes them safer and more cost the ropes from her for the last three months 0,12914,86449,00.html?ESRC= vr.nl.
efficient.” and is ready to take over for his teacher. For President Bush signed a Defense
“They’re very aware of what the dogs now, the dogs and the handlers share the Appropriations Bill in December that
can do,” said Broda. “She has put a lot of routine, and the dangerous missions, as enables military working dogs to retire
people in prison. Staff Sgt. Figo has taken special teams – supporting the Combat early and to be adopted by their handlers
sniper fire - and it was directed at her Forces in Multi-National Division- following an injury.
specifically. I’ve heard that there is a Baghdad.
August 2006 Page 5
15th Infantry Regiment ‘Can Do’ Rendezvous
Soldiers gathered at the Punch Bowl
T
he 3rd Battalion at Fort Stewart Those veterans and spouses fortunate announcement of appointments of four
hosted the 2006 ‘Can Do‘ to attend experienced a great mustering of Distinguished Members of the
Rendezvous May 10-12, 2006. The past and present. Events included a golf Regiment–LTC Gary Brito, Edward
Rendezvous took on added importance tournament, a Regimental Run, a visit to Dojutrek, LTC Gary Luck, and Lloyd
and more meaningful proportions since the 3rd ID museum, and a Regimental Whitmer–and two Honorary Members of
this was the first Rendezvous since the 1st Dinner. the Regiment, Michelle Brito and
Battalion hosted one at Fort Benning in The guest speaker for the evening was Stephanie Luck. On behalf of the
2004. Both battalions had been deployed John Burke, representing the Association Association, John presented special
in 2005 engaged in Operation Iraqi membership. His remarks included Association Plaques honoring the 3rd
Freedom III. Battalion NCO and Soldier of the Year.
Leonard Lassor & CPT Laase LT Rose, CPT Ohman, LT McCorkle
Page 6 The Watch on the Rhine
Lynch takes command of 3rd
Recruiting Drive
Infantry Division
ALive Story from a
Recruiter—
FORTSTEWART, Ga. (June 13, 2006) – Lynch said he was humbled to join the After 3 weeks on recruiting in the
Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch took command of the
ranks of the 3rd Inf. Div. and promised active Army I was trying to find a
3rd Infantry Division during an indoor cer-
to continue supporting the division’s man, and his mother said he was at a
emony at Newman Physical Fitness Center
service station. When I went there,
mission, teamwork, and well-being.
here today.
they said he was helping a man clean
Lynch comes to the 3rd Inf. Div. from his up the grave yard. When I went to the
him. Lynch’s organizational prowess, espe-
one-year assignment as the Deputy Chief of graveyard, I didn’t see anyone.
cially during his previous assignment, was
Staff for Strategic Effects for the
also applauded. I went back to the station and told
Multinational Forces Iraq (MNF-I).
them all of the people in the grave
“He did a good job of synchronizing the
Outgoing 3rd Inf. Div. commander Maj. yard were dead, and I wanted a live
battle space across Iraq,” Vines said.
Gen. William G. Webster heads to his new man.
Vines recognized the dedication Webster
assignment at U.S. Northern Command as
P.S. He had finished and returned
had for his 3rd Inf. Div Soldiers.
the Director of Operations, J-3.
home. Lesson Learned: Don’t look in
“He was great because he knew what
Lynch said he was humbled to join the the graveyard!
was important, but he cared about you,”
ranks of the 3rd Inf. Div. and promised to
Vines said. “The 3rd Inf. Div. is losing an Hints forRecruiting forthe
continue supporting the division’s mission,
excellent leader.” 3rd Infantry Division Society
teamwork, and well-being.
Proud to have served as the commander 1)Wear a Division patch or pin on
“I pledge to do my very best to take care
of the 3rd Inf. Div., Webster called the divi- your hat or jacket.
of the magnificent Soldiers and their fami-
sion’s Soldiers a precious resource. He 2) Always have at least 2 applications
lies,” Lynch said.
praised the division and the garrison for the in your left pocket and more in the
During the ceremony, Lynch recognized
Army-level recognition it has it attained, glove box of the car.
his new division command sergeant major,
both as a Community of Excellence and 3) People will recognize the patch
Command Sgt. Maj. John Calpena, who
having several of the Army’s best units and and ask about the 3rd ID. It’s best to
replaces Command Sgt. Maj. William
programs. He thanked Grant for being his have them fill out the form and give
Grant. Grant is moving to a new assignment
command sergeant major, his advisor and you the $10.00 and you mail it for
at Fort Benning.
his wingman, and he thanked the Coastal them.
In his opening remarks, XVIII Airborne
Empire’s veterans’ organizations for their
4) You only get this one opportunity
Corps commander Lt. Gen. John R. Vines
service.
to recruit them this one time.
praised both Lynch and Webster for their
U.S. Army Forces Command Gen. Dan
service. He also lauded the 3rd Inf. Div. for 5) Where do you meet them? Any
K. McNeill also attended the ceremony. The
its accomplishments in Iraq and in trans- place you go in public.
3rd Inf. Div. is one of FORSCOM’s divi-
forming to a modular force comprised of 6) Look how we are growing already.
sions.
self-sustaining brigade combat teams that If everyone will get just one, we can
Early in 2003 the deployability and
can link with other brigade combat teams. double our size. Get your one!
fighting capability of the 3rd Inf. Div. was
Modular force structure allows units to be 7) Don’t forget associate members.
visible worldwide when the entire division
mixed and matched according to mission You can also give a membership as a
deployed in weeks to Kuwait. It was called
requirements and also allows units to be gift.
on subsequently to spearhead Coalition
pulled from across the Army instead of
8) VA Hospitals, waiting rooms and
forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom, fighting
from only one division.
cafeterias are a fine place to find
its way to Baghdad in early April, leading to
“All of us involved in the process (of them.
the end of the Saddam Hussein government
transformation) recognized it was a signifi-
imposed tyranny over the people of Iraq. 9) Go to American Legion, VFWand
cant risk,” Vines said. “But we took it apart
The division has also served in Operation DAVmeetings.
and put it back together. It was brilliantly
Desert Storm, the Cold War, the Korean 10) If you meet someone that was in
done.”
War, in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, the 3rd ID and you don’t have the
The 3rd Inf. Div. is one of the four divi-
Germany and Austria during World War II, application from The Watch, cry just
sions that make up XVIII Airborne Corps.
and World War I. a little bit. You missed an opportunity.
The other divisions are the 10th Mountain
The ceremony was originally scheduled Or get out you pen and get their
Div., the 82nd Airborne Div., and the 101st
to take place at Cottrell Field, but tropical address and send them an application.
Airborne Div.
storm Alberto pushed the ceremony Rock of the Marne,
Vines praised Lynch’s commitment to
indoors. Henry Burke
the mission and the Soldiers serving under
August 2006 Page 7
Active Duty Liaison
3ID Activities Include Ceremonies, Graduation
By Dennis Noes As any good soldier will tell you, when a new assignment at Fort Benning, Ga.
Ft. Stewart has been quite active these ever there is a military field exercise, a After the ceremony, a reception was
last few months with the recent special operation, or just a special event, held and hosted by MG Lynch, CSM
Memorial Day services, installment the weather always seems to be uncooper- Calpena, and their wives. It was here that
of the Division’s 80th Commanding ative and makes things miserable. Society President Jim Tiezzi presented
General, and graduation of new and future However, like any good soldier, we adapt MG Lynch with is Society membership
leaders of the NCO corps. and improvise to turn a negative situation card, a plaque, and the “The History of the
into a positive one. And this was the Third Infantry Division.” The Society
case as MG Rick Lynch took com- looks forward to supporting and working
mand as the 80th Division with MG Lynch and CSM Calpena, and we
Commanding General on June 13, wish them the best with their command of
2006, in the post gymnasium the Third Infantry Division.
instead of Cottrell Parade Field.
Ialso attended the graduation at the
In the gymnasium, the Division’s Third Infantry Division Leadership School
Brigade Commanders and staff along which continues to develop new leaders
with the Bn colors stood ready for for today’s Army. The Society is proud and
inspection as soldiers, families, polit- appreciative of these new leaders and pre-
ical guests, and various Veteran sented a Certificate of Recognition and a 1
Service Organization represen- year Society membership to the following
tatives arrived for the ceremo- WLC Distinguished Graduates:
ABOVE:Memorial Day at Ft. ny. Representing the Society •WLC 7-06: SGTCharles C. Hines, 3-3
StewartMemorial Day at Ft. was Society National President SIG STB, Fort Stewart, GA31314
Stewart Jim Tiezzi, his wife, Janet, and • WLC8-06: SGTChad A. Friedman, B
RIGHT:Iraqi Freedom Society Active Duty Liaison Co. 1-75 RGR RGT, HAAF, GA31409
Memorial, Ft. Stewart Dennis Noes. • WLC-9-06: SGTAnthony S. Orosz. A
Once the guests arrived, Co., 1-64 Armor Battalion, 2nd BDE
The Ceremony started follow- Fort Stewart, GA 31314
ing military Change of So comes to close another SITREP
Command Protocol with the from me. I look forward to seeing every-
exchanging of the Division’s one at the National Meeting in Nashville.
colors from the outgoing com- Rock of the Marne!
mander to the incoming com- Dennis R. Noes
This year’s Ft. Stewart Memorial Day mander.
service was well attended by representa- MG Lynch joins the ranks of 3rd ID
tives of various Veteran Service after completing a one-year assignment as
Organizations (VSOs), Unit Bn Colors the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic
from all Brigades to include their CSMs, Effects for the Multinational Forces - Iraq.
distinguished guests, and solders and fam- MG Webster will be stationed at Ft. Brag,
ilies from the division. North Carolina with 18th Airborne Corp.
It was a solemn memorial service that “I am indeed humbled by the selection
remembered the loss of 315 Marne men to become Marne Six,” MG Lynch said. “I
and women that sacrificed their lives to pledge to do my very best to take care of
maintain freedom and democracy for us, these magnificent Soldiers and their fami-
and at the same time to provide these same lies.”
freedoms to the people of Iraq. The Society During the ceremo-
wreath is the last one on the right. On a ny, MG Lynch recog-
positive note, the dedication of the Marne nized his new division
men and women has resulted in over 6500 Command Sergeant
reenlistments. I strongly encourage local Major (CSM) John
Society members to make an attempt to Calpena, who replaces
attend the Division’s 2007 Memorial Day Command Sgt. Maj. ABOVE:3rd ID Change of Command
event which will be hosted under the new William Grant. CSM Ceremony
Division Commander’s command. Grant is moving on to LEFT:MG Lynch Assumes Command
Page 8 The Watch on the Rhine
VA Chief Info
Farewell Ceremonies Reports
Security Officer
OP 22 Member Jerry are better people for having
Cunningham, who was known you, and we will be Resigns
among the first to welcome forever grateful. Your friend-
MG Webster to the 3rd ID, ship is very precious to us; According to a news article in
was invited by special please stay in touch. Best Washington, the chief informa-
request to represent the wishes to all of you and your tion security officer of the U.S.
Society of the 3rd ID at the families, and may God con- Veterans Affairs Department has
Farewell Retreat Ceremony tinue to bless you. We hope resigned, but maintains that security
and dinner for both (ADCs) MG Webster, BG O’Neill, to see you on the high problems there weren’t his fault.
BG Mark O’Neill and BG and BG Horst ground in the near future!
CISO Pedro Cardenas, whose resig-
Karl as well as the farewell Thanks again for all you do.
nation became effective on 13 July, was
dinner held for MG William G. Webster the Rock of the Marne!”
placed on paid administrative leave for
next evening. His report follows: After dinner and the general’s farewell his final two weeks of employment.
The Third Infantry Division is rebuilding comments, a video highlighting the three
Cadenas told an interviewer that the
with new faces from top to bottom. years of his command was shown. Jerry
VADepartment had only recently crafted
• MG Wm. Webster—J-3, US Northern Cunningham had the honor to present Mrs. ITpolicy changes that placed the respon-
Command, Peterson AFB, CO. Webster with a crystal clock for her charity sibility for fixing years of neglect direct-
work and support to the families of deployed
• BG Karl Horst—Dep Com General, ly on his shoulders.
troops. And he also presented a mahogany
XVIIIth Airborne Corps, Ft Bragg NC. “I just can’t do this anymore,”
coin shadow box to MG Webster.
• BG Mark O’Neil—Dep Commandant, Cadenas said. “My conscience and pro-
Cunningham had collaborated with
CGSC, Ft Leavenworth, KS. fessionalism will not let me stay .... If
Grammy Award winner Lee Greenwood,
I was privileged to meet these great leaders these agencies want to hire security peo-
known for his song, “God Bless the USA,”
and to participate in special farewell cere- ple they need to let them do their job.”
for over two years to develop the shadow
monies for them. Cadenas said that in his nearly four-
box which contains four Iraqi coins decom-
Thursday, 1 Jun. After a Farewell missioned by Saddam Hussein after Gulf year tenure, he tried to change the
Retreat Ceremony in honor of BG O’Neill War I in the 1990s. These are the last of these department’s IT security policies and
and BG Horst, everyone joined the general coins, the rest having been melted down by procedures, but was never given authori-
officers at Club Stewart for a bittersweet cer- the former dictator. The coins were mounted ty to implement improvements.
emony commemorating these two great lead- with gloved hands into the commemorative He said last month’s data theft inci-
ers as they depart for new assignments. They shadow box and displays the word dent only exacerbated his frustration
led many young men and women to war dur- “Freedom” in Arabic with the following def- with being cut out of the decision-mak-
ing Operation Iraqi Freedom III, and it has inition written below: ing process. He added that during his
been an honor to know them. tenure at the department, he met VA
Freedom: n. 1) The state of being free
Friday, 2 Jun. The Farewell Dinner for from constraints. 2) Political Independence. Secretary James Nicholson only once, at
MG and Mrs. Webster was superb. MG 3) Free will. a social event. After Cadenas introduced
Webster shared that as he and his wife himself, Nicholson reportedly said that
CAN DO!
Kimberly depart Ft. Stewart and Hunter Field he heard that Cadenas’ job was impor-
—Submitted by Jerry Cunningham
for the third time, that they also leave the 3rd tant.
Editor’s Note: Jerry’s notes give us
ID for the third time. “The department has no interest in
another dimension of MG Webster and the
MG Webster added, “We are extremely doing the right thing,” Cadenas said. “I
other out-going senior command leaders’
proud to have served with all of you in these was trained to do things the right way,
effect on the men and women of the 3rd ID.
troubled times for our nation. The Marne not the good old boy way. I am having
Jerry says that he is not bucking for Dennis
Team has been about as strong as we could personal difficulty looking veterans in
Noes’job as Active Duty Liasion—he simply
imagine it could be, and we feel lucky, the eye and telling them that things will
was among the first to welcome these leaders
blessed, and honored that we could focus on be OK.” He said he had no future job
to the Society and worked closely with them
our mission, our soldiers, and our team opportunities lined up.
during their deployments and welcome them
together with each of you. Thank you for A new VA directive now gives addi-
back home. He is grateful for the honor of
your service, dedication, and hard work. We tional powers and authority to CISO. It
being one of the last to bid them farewell.
delegates “complete responsibility and
complete authority,” including that for
PLEASE PAY YOUR DUES TODAY
establishing system access standards,
and it requires department-wide compli-
Unpaid Dues Report
ance and reporting of any failures to
Total Membership ................3,799 Total delinquent: ..................481 comply.
June 2006 Page 9
NNeewwss FFrroomm TThhee OOuuttppoossttss
12 Tommy Thompson OP 13 Presents
Plaque to former
Minneapolis, MN
President. Walter
Schmidt, former
OP12 Fall Fling—October7 & 8, 2006 OP President (left),
The Country Inn & Suites in Albert Lea, MN and current
If you attended any O.P. 12 meeting the past two years you President George
will receive a flyer by mail in early September. Otherwise, con- Knight
tact me for any motel and/or banquet reservation information.
My snail mail, phone number and e-mail address are listed on
page 2 of The Watchunder the heading, “Central Region V.P.”
The Charity Committee composed of Jerry Manley and John
Ethen presented checks to the Minneapolis Veterans Home and
the Fort Snelling National Cemetery Memorial Rifle Squad. Don
Jurgs, our long time Newsletter editor who passed away a num-
Old Business.
ber of years ago, was a former member of the Rifle Squad.
OP #13 Constitution and By-Laws were briefly discussed at
Due to declining attendance there was no OP12 summer pic- our last meeting; many members were not even aware of them.
nic held this year. It has always taken place the first Saturday in Some of the Articles are more or less obsolete and no longer fol-
August but in 2005 only six members showed up even through it lowed as written. They have not been revised since 1988, but
was a beautiful day. It can be rescheduled again next year if should be. Any OP#13 member who wants to participate in mak-
enough members are interested. ing revisions, please send the Secretary (me) a SASE. I will in
—Submitted by Jerry Manley S/T turn make a copy of our present C&BL’s and mail them to you.
Hopefully at our meeting this coming Fall, we can discuss the
Charles D. King
13 matter and get it resolved. Thanks to all!
Michigan —Submitted by Terry Tennant, S/T
Giovinazzo-York
During the Spring Luncheon meeting in Jackson MI earlier 18
this year, President George Knight presented a very nice black Milwaukee, WI
walnut plaque to Walter Schmidt - our past President - from all
OP 13 members, thanking him for his many years of faithful ser- Next meeting 15 Oct 06, Appleton Holiday Inn Hook and
vice. Ladder Room—see the OPnewsletter for more details..
Member Bill Strong reported that his wife Dorothy had a —Submitted by Bob Meganck, Secretary
recent confrontation with her step ladder, and the ladder won.
Albert Miceli
She ended up in the hospital with a broken nose, compound frac- 22
ture of her right wrist, fractures in her pelvis, a banged up right Southern California
leg, bruises on a lot of her body, including her right eye.
Seriously Dorothy, we are very sorry you had such a bad accident OP22 Members attend Memorial Day Ceremony at Mt Soledad
and all wish you a full and speedy recovery. Veterans Memorial, La Jolla, California
As I sit and write this report, I have in front of me an e-mail Several members of OP 22, participated in the Memorial Day
from National, stating nineteen Outpost #13 members have not Ceremony honoring all departed Veterans on May 29, 2006 at the Mt
yet paid their annual dues. Once again this creates a lot of unnec- Soledad Veterans Memorial in La Jolla, California. On a sparkling
essary, time-consuming work for all the people who have to keep afternoon a crowd of approximately 1,000 gathered for the ceremo-
records at the National and local levels. I’m sure all grouchy old ny and viewed the impressive Memorial at the peak of Mt Soledad,
OPSecretary’s would be grateful for a “skosh” more cooperation overlooking La Jolla and the Pacific shoreline.
in keeping dues current. (Half-kidding, of course!) A highlight of the ceremony was the introduction of OP 22
New Members. President Andy Scullion, who presented a short narrative story about
We extend a warm welcome to new members Billie K. Fitz, the early life and later outstanding accomplishments of Audie
Jack E. Bates, Donald B. Eckman, Edward O. Reling, Frank D. Murphy. AMemorial Plaque was introduced by William Kellogg,
Hartand. Hope you all are able to join us at our next meeting this President of the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, and presented to
Fall, so that we can meet and welcome you in person. OPmembers Jesse Ugalde and Andy Scullion who accepted for the
Murphy family and the Society of the 3rd ID. The plaque will join
Page 10 The Watch on the Rhine