10-25-2012

So there was no call yesterday which means he passed his Rifle Marksmanship test! YIPPY! Pictures from the test!

He is now going to be going out to the cold cold wood to practice combat tactics he will even have to stay over night out there! BRRRR! <3 Him so much!

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

15 hours ago

 

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Huge day for Alpha Rock as they’ve made it to Graduation!! Our congratulations to both the Soldiers who successfully completed the tough, demanding challenges presented to them during BCT and also to the Family Members and friends who’ve survived your “First Deployment” away from your Soldier. Hope you all had a wonderful time yesterday. We’ll s

ee you today at 9:00 a.m. at Abrams Theater (on Iowa Ave) for Graduation!!

The “Holiday Block Leave Information” post went up on our “Notes” tab as promised last night. Please check it out before Friday night’s live on-line chat – it will make our time on Friday more helpful for everyone.

Also check out the log-in instructions for the live chat on the “Notes” tab as well. We’ll have the web link for the chat up and running by 6:00 p.m. Friday night for Family Members and Friends to begin logging on, but won’t actually start providing information until 6:30 p.m.

For our Bravo Bulldogs Families and Friends there’s still time to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility, we need your RSVP by the end of October so we have the right amount of food. You can call (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time Monday through Friday. We will also use this information to set our meal times.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 6): Great news to report from the Bulldogs yesterday!! All Soldiers medically cleared to train or not pending separation met the Basic Rifle Marksmanship qualification standard during either Tuesday or Wednesday’s range days. This is a huge accomplishment for the Bulldog team; proud of them! No rest for the weary though, as this morning they headed out early on their 12 kilometer (about 7.5 mile) road march and their second Field Training Exercise (FTX). During the FTX they’ll build on the lessons learned earlier in training and put them to use in a field setting. Over the next two days they’ll execute basics of field craft – occupying an assembly area, priorities of work, preparing fighting positions, tactical movements, and battle drills – react to contact, squad attack, break contact, react to ambush, and react to indirect fire. These are all basic Soldier skills that will keep your Soldier alive on today’s battlefield regardless of his / her MOS. They’ll also spend the night out in the woods!

It’s gonna be a great day! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

Oh we I also got a letter in the mail from him today and A picture that the church took of him for me <3

 

 

10/24/2012

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

10/24/2012

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – After a rainy start, yesterday turned out to be a fantastic day! Projected to be another awesome one today.

Last night we posted the log-in instructions for Friday night’s live chat on our “Notes” tab (To get to the “Notes” tab click the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab above). Hope you can make it Friday night for our on-line live chat from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Central Standard Time. We’ll have the web link up and running by 6:00 p.m. for Family Members and Friends to begin logging on, but won’t actually start providing information until 6:30 p.m. We will do what we can to capture the key points of the discussion and the questions / answers for posting shortly after the chat.

The Holiday Block Leave information will be posted on our “Notes” tab later on this evening.

For our Bravo Bulldogs Families and Friends there’s still time to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility, we need your RSVP by the end of October so we have the right amount of food. You can call (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time Monday through Friday. We will also use this information to set our meal times.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 6): Overall, the Bulldogs shot very well on yesterday’s practice record fire with almost everyone meeting the qualification standard! They’ll all be back after it again today to meet the standard or try to improve their score from yesterday. To qualify on their individual weapon each Soldier receives 40 rounds. They will be presented with a series of timed targets at varying ranges from 50 to 300 meters (150 – 900 feet). They engage 20 targets from the prone supported (lying down with weapon on a sandbag), 10 from the prone unsupported (lying down, without any support for the weapon other than their own arms), and 10 from the kneeling firing positions. To qualify each Soldier must hit 23 of 40 targets; those who exceed the standard (36 hits or better) are considered “Experts.” Soldiers must qualify with their weapon to graduate Basic Training and will be afforded every opportunity today to do so. Those Bulldog Soldiers (and only that company) that do not qualify today will be afforded the opportunity to make ONE FIVE MINUTE phone call to let someone know that they are a graduation risk; only those Soldiers who do not qualify will call someone – bottom line: IF YOU DON’T GET A PHONE CALL TODAY THAT’S A GOOD THING! Today is one of the few days you don’t want one.

Can you believe we’re already half way through the week?! Hope the rest of yours is a good one! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

PRAY FOR NO CALL TODAY!!!

I am spoiled by my soldier!

10/23/2012...First off what R.J. did today:

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

13 hours ago

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Rain on and off throughout the night last night, but lightening up and the sun coming out as I’m typing. The rain could impact some of our training today.

We will have Holiday Block Leave and Log-In instructions for Friday night’s live chat posted on our “Notes” tab tomorrow evening.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 6): Its crunch time for the Bulldogs, BRM practice record fire! As I mentioned last week, weapons qualification is one of the two biggest stressors for trainees (the other being the final Army Physical Fitness Test). Soldiers must hit a minimum of 23 out of 40 targets from the prone supported (lying down, weapon on a sandbag), prone unsupported (lying down holding the weapon), and kneeling to successfully qualify. Hope you sent your Soldier some motivation over the weekend!!

Hope you have an awesome Tuesday! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

I am hoping that he is doing good at his rifle Marksmanship! It is all rainy and muddy out so hopefully that wont stop them. He graduates in 28 days I am so excited. We are hoping that I can go but right now it is not looking too good because I have no one to watch the kids so I have to pay for them too. :( Why is my family and baby sitting so stinkin hard? I dont understand sometimes. People are like oh yea its just me going to graduation no kid. Ugh I just wish I could get a break from them for a little while it gets very overwhelming. Ok, sorry I am venting. Anyways, he graduates soon so after he is done with Basic he goes to AIT where I get to talk to him almost every day and hopefully we get to skype a lot too! We will see. Its just a waiting game! We are very excited though because we actually have a future now! R.J. is becoming so confident in himself and he sounds so happy! I am very spoiled though because he writes almost every day so I can get a letter every day. Even if its just small. It helps a lot! Well, Thanks for reading have a good night! The picture below is all his letters he sent to me so far. I hope thats all I might be missing some though 19 letters! <3

 

10/23/2012 Basic Training

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

October 17

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – It continues to be a great week of training here in the Dragoon Battalion; we hope your week is going well too!

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 5): its back out to the rifle range today for the Bravo Bulldogs to confirm their zero (what you aim at is what you hit) at both 200 and 300 meter (600 and 900 feet) targets.

Have an awesome Wednesday! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

 

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

October 18

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Sorry I’m posting late today. This morning about 120 cadre members from across our brigade participated in a cadre leadership certification that incorporated many of the same events your Soldiers complete during Basic Combat Training.

Starting at 5:00 a.m. we stepped off on our road march to various events around post. Over the morning we exec

uted a series of Physical Readiness Training events; completed a problem solving event on the Team Development Course; tackled the Physical Endurance Course (PECs); zeroed, qualified, and engaged in a tactical decision exercise at the EST; developed our Warrior Ethos in a Modern Army Combatives scenario; evaluated and treated several (mock) casualties. The final event was a standards and unit history board chaired by the Brigade Commander. Overall fantastic event!

Family Members and Friends – MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!! Next Friday night, 26 October from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Central Time we will host a live on-line video chat that you can log into to get information about several critical upcoming events including: Thanksgiving Day Special Meal for the Bravo Bulldogs, Holiday Block Leave ticketing procedures, and Holiday Block Leave procedures. You won’t want to miss it! We’ll be posting the log-in instructions sometime next week.

For our Bravo Bulldogs Families and Friends don’t forget to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility, we need your RSVP by the end of October so we have the right amount of food. You can call (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time. We will also use this information to set our meal times.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 5): Continues Basic Rifle Marksmanship with their first field range. This range provides Soldiers with their first opportunity to engage stationary pop-up targets at various ranges (75, 175, and 300 meters – 150, 525, and 900 feet) to gage exposure time, their target acquisition and engagement skills, and apply the proper marksmanship fundamentals they’ve been taught over the last few weeks.

Hope you have a great Thursday! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO shared a link.

October 19

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends

As a reminder, next Friday night, 26 October from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Central Time we will host a live on-line video web-cast chat that Family Members and Friends can log into to get information about several critical upcoming events including: Thanksgiving Day Special Meal for the Bravo Bulldogs, Holiday Block Leave ticketing procedures, and Holiday Block Leave procedures. You won’t want to miss it! We’ll be posting the log-in instructions sometime next week. You Soldiers will NOT be a part of this event; it’s solely our battalion leadership providing information to you. Because it is a web-cast, we won’t have a video to post after the fact, but we will try and capture the questions asked and answers provided and post them to our “Notes” page after the event.

For our Bravo Bulldogs Families and Friends time is getting short for you to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility! You can call (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

The Fort Leonard Wood newspaper “The Guidon” published its next to last story following four Charlie Comanches through their Basic Combat Training experience. You can check out the story at:
http://www.myguidon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15329&Itemid=39

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 5): The Bulldogs continue Basic Marksmanship Training by returning to the Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) a fully functional simulator that helps them refine their skills in a qualification range scenario.

It’s Friday meaning the end of another week in Basic Combat Training; pictures go up by Saturday night, and maybe (let’s keep our figures crossed) we won’t have anyone lose their phone privileges for this weekend! Hope you have a great weekend. “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

 

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

10/20/2012

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Hope your weekend is starting off well; ours is off to a great start!
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Friday’s live on-line video web-cast! You’ll he

ar information about the Thanksgiving Day Special Meal / Warrior Banquet for Bravo Company, Holiday Block Leave Ticketing Procedures, and Holiday Block Leave procedures. Your Soldiers will NOT be part of this event, but don’t let that discourage you from logging in. We’ll have the log-in information up mid week.

If you’re a Bravo Bulldogs Family or Friend please don’t forget to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility! We have to turn in the numbers at the end of next week. If you haven’t called yet, you can still do so starting on Monday - (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 5): The Bulldogs took their second diagnostic Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) this morning to gauge their fitness level and progress thus far. Soldiers must pass the end of cycle APFT (typically administered at the end of Week 7 or 8) by scoring fifty points or more in each of the three events – 2 minutes of push-ups, 2 minutes of sit-ups, and a two mile run. Later today they’ll continue their Modern Army Combatives Training.

As always, look for pictures from this week’s training to be up later today in each company’s photo album.

Hope you have a great weekend! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

- R.J. did good this day on his APFT but did not qualify in his running. He ran 2 miles in 18 min and it needs to be in 16 min. He is looking good for hopefully passing in 2 weeks

 

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

 

 10/21/2012

 

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – It’s the start of another beautiful fall day here in central Missouri – the leaves are all changing and starting to fall from the trees, there’s a brisk breeze in the air, and not a cloud in

the sky. The week looks pretty good overall weather-wise, though we may get some thunderstorms tomorrow afternoon. Alpha Rock’s Family Day and Graduation are projected to be great days!

Mostly housekeeping and reminders for today’s update:

For the Alpha Rock Family and Friends headed to Fort Leonard Wood this week here’s a few things to keep in mind:

Getting on to Fort Leonard Wood requires anyone over the age of 18 to have photo identification. Drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license, show proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. You do not need a pass. If you rent a car, your rental contract serves as your vehicle registration. You do not need anything special or additional if you’re borrowing a vehicle. Your vehicle is subject to search at any time you are on the installation. Unregistered privately owned weapons are not allowed on the installation and create significant problems for you if you bring one on post. Also, you are subject to a $75 fine if caught driving while using a cell phone without a hands-free device (speaker phone does not constitute a hands-free device).

If you are a new Army Spouse and you do not have a DoD Dependent ID Card, you must use your time during Family Day and Graduation to get one! I cannot stress this point strongly enough. Having an ID Card while your Soldier is away at AIT allows you access to many services provided to Soldiers and their Families. In order to get one while you’re here if you do not already have one you must bring: the original, filed and recorded marriage license, the spouse’s birth certificate, the spouse’s Social Security Card, and a photo ID. Children over 10 also must have an ID card, requirements for a biological child of the Soldier and the spouse must have their birth certificate and social security card. The ID Card Section is open from 6:00 am – 7:00 am for walk-ins; after 7:00 am they serve appointments only. Unfortunately, the ID Card Section is closed on Thursdays after 1200. If you have further questions or want to make an appointment you can call (573) 596-0744.

Lastly, please keep your personal safety and security in mind as you finalize your travel plans. I know you’re excited about seeing your Soldier and connecting with other Families, but remember that this is an open page anyone can see. Posting your travel plans, where you’re staying, and when you’ll be away from your home provide others with an opportunity to see when your home is most vulnerable – they may not always have your best interest in mind. It’s best to send personal messages if you’re trying to connect with others as opposed to posting on the page.

If you’re a Bravo Bulldogs Family or Friend please don’t forget to RSVP for the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day with your Soldier in our Dining Facility! We have to turn in the numbers at the end of next week. If you haven’t called yet, you can still do so starting on Monday - (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time

For everyone else - don’t forget to mark your calendars for Friday’s live on-line video web-cast! You’ll hear information about the Thanksgiving Day Special Meal / Warrior Banquet for Bravo Company, Holiday Block Leave Ticketing Procedures, and Holiday Block Leave procedures. Your Soldiers will NOT be part of this event, but don’t let that discourage you from logging in. We’ll have the log-in information up mid week.

We’ve got another full week ahead this week – Alpha Rock completes their BCT experience; the Bravo Bulldogs qualify on their M16 rifle and head out to their second field training exercise; the Delta Dawgs get fitted for their Army Service Uniform, take on the Confidence Course, and head back out to the range; and the Echo Enforcers go to the field for their culminating training exercise.

As always, Sundays are set aside for voluntary attendance at one of Fort Leonard Wood’s various religious services, preparation for the upcoming week’s training, and area clean-up.

This week’s video is a ‘shout out’ to our Alpha Rock Families as they make their way to Fort Leonard Wood this week to see their Soldier graduate Basic Combat Training! While I know you’re excited to make your way here, you definitely need to keep the speed limit in mind…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvV3nn_de2k

Hope you had a great weekend! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

- Sundays are the day we get to have a call from our Soldiers but I did not get a call from R.J. all of us army wives thought they got their call taken away! We were all devastated!

 

1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

10/22/2012

 

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Fantastic morning for Physical Readiness Training (PRT today) – warm, slight breeze; great day for a run…

Make sure that you keep your calendar free for Friday night’s live on-line webcast for information about key upcoming events – graduations, Thanksgiving, Holiday Block Leave Ticketing, and Holiday Block Leave procedures

On to today’s trainin

g update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 6): The Bulldogs started this morning with Ability Group Runs (AGR) for PRT and then it’s off to the range for more Basic Rifle Marksmanship training. Today Soldiers fire a series of timed engagements at variable ranges to improve their marksmanship skills and confidence. It’s a lot faster than you might think. This is a significant training event for the Bulldogs as later this week (Wednesday) they will fire their qualification record fire. Weapons qualification is one of the single most stressful events in Basic Combat Training – Soldiers must qualify on their individual weapon to graduate.


Hope you have a great week! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

- I got a call this day because Sunday they got too busy and there wasn't a Drill Sargent to give them their phones. They gave them a 30min call. It still was not enough time but R.J. is doing good! He took his Rifle Marksmanship test and he almost qualified. He missed 2 targets to qualify. They have their final in 2 days though so hopefully he can pass! He has to pass to graduate! 

 

Well, that is all the updates for today. Pictures from the week are below!

 

 

In the Beginning to now!

Ok, I did not start this till today October 16th 2012 but I will step back a little bit so everyone knows what has happened.

On September 10th 2012 R.J. went to a hotel here in Phoenix, AZ where he stayed over night so the next morning he could board a plane to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.

September 11th 2012 - R.J. left Phoenix, Arizona without his family or any friends to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He arrived there at about 12:30 pm Arizona time so that would have been 3:30pm Missouri time. He met up with the others and boarded a bus that took him to Fort Leonard Wood. He then went to what is called Reception. From the September 11th to the 15th. I remember because he got to call on my birthday! I found out that while R.J. was in reception our marriage certificate was not certified so by the time I was able to fax over a certified copy of our marriage certificate they had already passed him up in line. So, neither me or my children to this day is in the record for military. That means no separation pay, no extra pay for dependents. So, that shorted us a lot of money on his check. And we are still dealing with it.

September 15th 2012 - R.J. loads another bus with drill Sargent on it to take him to where he will be at the remainder of basic training. He had to keep his head down the whole time. He there was shoved off the bus and herded into a line for formation to have whats called "The Shark Attack" done. This is where they have to stand in formation with their bags over their head straight up for 30min. People were screamed at, packs dropped, bags came over. Oh and before this they threw everyones bags in to a big pile and they had to find who's was who's. I couldn't find any pictures of R.J. but here is some of his Company. He is in the Bravo Bulldogs. His platoon is the Warlords 2nd Platoon. There are about 4 platoons in his company and just his platoon has 199 people in it. Here are some pictures of the "Shark Attack" OK, they didn't have pictures of their company but here is the Delta dogs they are 1 week behind the Bull Dogs. It kinda gives you an idea of what he was doing. It was raining when R.J. did it though so that is why im guessing there is no pictures. But this is a good example of what happened!

After this everything was just a blur to me so I will post up some Facebook statuses

Alle Ashcroft

September 17 at 10:31am

Ugh I am having bad dreams that Rj calls and he is completely changed and he is extremely rude and does not care about me anymore. The worst part is is that it is one of those real life dreams that don't feel like a dream at all

 

Alle Ashcroft

September 18 at 7:56pm near Phoenix ·

Oh my goodness this is way too hard both my kids are crying wanting daddy and is pushing everything away I try to give them even me. Usually telling them hes at work works but apparently not now. They have been crying for 30min straight and I dont know what to do. I even tried chocolate and they pushed it away and kept crying and asking for Daddy! :(

 

Alle Ashcroft

September 26 via mobile

Only Me

so not very happy so utah wasn't on the list for assignments when rj was at reception so he chose 1. Texas 2. Germany 3. Italy 4. Hawaii....don't ask me why he chose all pretty much out of the country...I wasn't there lol so it is more than likely that we will be stationed in texas! Kinda excited but very nervous at the same time!

Alle Ashcroft

September 26 near Phoenix

Only Me

Got 2 letters from R.J. Today. Last dated Sunday the 23rd so pretty recent. He is doing good. Hasn't gotten in trouble at all. He has really good Drill Sargent s and he is learning a lot. 60 days till AIT

 

Alle Ashcroft

September 27 near Phoenix

Only Me

OK So here is the facebook page for R.J. they post pictures every Saturday and He is On the Brovo team. There are some pictures already but I dont see R.J. but he is there doing that stuff! Just put in the search bar...
1st Battalion 48th Infantry Regiment Fort Leonard Wood, MO

 

Alle Ashcroft shared a link.

September 28 near Phoenix

Only Me

R.J. IS ON TV! Well kinda at 04:02 of the clip R.J. is in the back ground walking to his seat with his food!!!!!!!!!! :)
http://www.kctv5.com/story/19644412/kctv5s-stacey-cameron-experiences-life-in-the-american-military

KCTV5's Stacey Cameron experiences life in the American military

www.kctv5.com

KCTV5 investigative reporter Stacey Cameron is experiencing life in the American military.

Like · · Share

 

Alle Ashcroft

October 8 near Phoenix

Just booked my room for R.J.'s graduation. Completely refundable in case anything happens! YAY! Things can only look up from here!

Book your rooms now at STURGIS HEIGHTS on base. Call 877-711-8326 and ask for the $60 per night rate. Rooms are going fast!I have already booked our rooms for Nov 20th-24th!

 

OK, so there were my posts to facebook now for the 1ST Battalion Infantry Regiment Posts

 

 

 September, 17th 2012

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – We’re off to another awesome week here in Central Missouri – five companies in training in the battalion with one scheduled to graduate on Thursday and another company picking up new Soldiers on Friday. We wish our Foxtrot Warrior Families and Friends safe travels as they make their way to Fort Leonard Wood this week for graduation.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): First and foremost, let me welcome the newest Dragoon Family Members the Bravo Company Bulldogs!! Welcome aboard. It’s my hope that you find this page as informative as Families who have gone through their ‘first deployment’ a few weeks ahead of you. The Bulldogs begin their Basic Combat Training experience in earnest today as they inprocess the battalion and start the Soldierization process. Looking from some help from Family Members further along in their ‘first deployment’ to help our new Bulldog Family Members with the knowledge you’ve gained over the past few weeks.

 

September 18

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Hope that everyone’s having a great week; we sure are here in the Dragoon Battalion! We’ve got a full day out at the rifle range for most of the battalion.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): - The Bravo Bulldogs are off to a good start on their BCT journey! Like other Soldiers in the battalion, these citizen volunteers chose to do something greater then themselves. If they give 100% of themselves over the next ten weeks, pay attention to what their Drill Sergeants are teaching them, embrace, internalize, and practice the Army Values – Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage – each and every day; and embody the Warrior Ethos – placing the mission first (putting others before themselves), never excepting defeat (overcoming all adversity), never quitting (‘nuff said), and never leaving a fallen comrade (bringing others alongside him / her), they will succeed. These are the fundamental aspects of the Army Profession of Arms. If you’re interested in learning more about the Army Profession of Arms, check the Center for the Army Profession and Ethic at: http://cape.army.mil/Army%20Profession/ArmyProfession.php. Over the course of this week we’ll be welcoming their Family Members and friends to our on-line community. For those Bulldog Family Members who’ve found their way to this page already – start writing your letters of encouragement now – daily are ok too.

 

September 19

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – First and foremost – we’re looking forward to seeing the Foxtrot Warrior Family Members and Friends this morning for Family Day. We’ll see you at 08:30 am at the Audie Murphy Club for Family Day activities and then later this afternoon for the Warrior Banquet at the Pershing Community Center if you’re attending. Unfortunately, I personally won’t

be able to attend as I have some scheduling conflicts, but several of our cadre members will be there.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): - For our new Bravo Company families I should have introduced myself earlier and let you know a little bit about our semi-official site. Your Solider is now a member of the 1st Battalion, 48th Infantry Regiment “Dragoons.” I have the privilege of serving as the Battalion Commander. Along with our Battalion Command Sergeant Major, CSM Dokey, we’re responsible for providing training and readiness oversight of six basic training companies to ensure they have what they need to execute the Basic Combat Training program of instruction. Each of our six companies (Alpha through Foxtrot) led by a Company Commander (a Captain – or “CPT”) is comprised of four platoons – your Soldier is assigned to one of those platoons. It’s at the platoon and company level where the Drill Sergeants are transforming your Soldiers from citizen volunteers into confident, competent American Soldiers who live the Warrior Ethos and our Army Values.

Each day I’ll provide a daily training update that outlines the various activities going on across the battalion so you have an idea of what you’re Soldier is learning. I’ll also provide general information on “Army Stuff” that will help make your ‘first deployment’ experience away you’re your Soldier a positive one. Additionally, each week our companies will post at least twenty RANDOM pictures (we don’t take requests – they’re just what we capture during the week) from that week’s training. On Sunday’s I’ll post a music video that I think captures the ‘mood’ of the Battalion.

You can connect with family members who also have Soldiers in the same company / platoon for unit specific information off the “Events” tab above under that company’s graduation event. Family members who have Soldiers in further in the training cycle can be a great source of information. That being said – please avoid posting opinions, rumors, profanity, or disparaging remarks about others. Our cadre and volunteers do our best to address questions in a timely manner, but please remember this is an additional duty beyond training your Soldier to fight, survive, and win on the battlefield. Any post that has the battalion unit insignia and signed with the poster’s name and rank is from a unit member and provides the official response.

 

September 20

Good Evening Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Huge day for the Foxtrot Warriors as they’ve made it to Graduation!! Our congratulations to both the Soldiers who successfully completed the tough, demanding challenges presented to them during BCT and also to the Family Members and friends who’ve survived your “First Deployment” away from your Soldier. Hope all of you had a wonderful time over t

he last two days. I’m sorry that I haven’t been there to spend this special time with you.

Posting later today as I’ve been traveling since early this morning. For those of you who have been on the page for a while you’ve seen that each week we highlight an event from that week in the 48th Infantry Regiment’s history. This week, I'm honored and humbled to be able to spend the weekend with our Regiment’s World War II veterans during their annual reunion. Pretty inspiring to be among them!

Last night and today I saw that several Family Members have received returned mail lately. I was not aware there was a problem until I saw the posts. We will look into the problem tomorrow with the Brigade Mail Room. Please keep in mind that you may get some more returned mail over the next week as it's likely already in the system and we can't begin to look into the problem until mid morning on Friday.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): - Our focus during Red Phase is to Transform, Inculcate, and Train your Warrior into a Physically Fit, Disciplined, and Confident Soldier who’s proficient at his / her Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills and capable of contributing to his / her first unit of assignment. This is no easy task, yet for those who Never Quit, Never Leave a Fallen Comrade, Never Except Defeat, and always bring their “A” Game, regardless of the task, they’ll do fine. Keep them fired up and focused on accomplishing that which they have set out to become – an American Soldier! Write uplifting, encouraging, and motivational letters to your loved one. Red Phase is meant to be tough, stressful, and demanding, so start writing now. Our recommendation is to send your loved one self-addressed stamped envelopes which allow them the ability to rapidly respond during their limited personal time each night. Again, they’re extremely busy and need your support.

 

September 21

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Back on track with a morning update today. Extremely busy day in the Dragoon Battalion as all six of our companies are actively engaged in their training mission. Hard to believe that it’s Friday already and the end of another awesome week!

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): - The Bulldogs are off to a great start as they begin their journey to transform from civilian volunteer to a U.S. Army Soldier! The focus of this first week of Basic Combat Training is learning how to look, act, and walk like a Soldier. They have a few physical readiness training (PRT) sessions under their belt and are acclimatizing well to our ever changing weather; they have learned how to properly wear their uniforms and are starting to identify different ranks. They’re learning Army Heritage, Traditions, Customs, Values, and Military Courtesies. As well as, how to efficiently navigate the mess hall and keep their living space tidy - believe it or not! They are learning how to march with plenty of drill and ceremonies practice. And they have a new best friend that rarely leaves their side, their assigned weapon. Today they have their first day of ‘real’ training here in BCT. They begin learning to work as team members today on the Team Development Course. Working in buddy team pairs, Soldiers have to negotiate a series of mentally and physically challenging obstacles.

 

September 22

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Hope your weekend’s off to a good start.

Yesterday the 7th Armored Division veterans visited the 1st Infantry Division Museum at Cantigny Park. It was an amazing facility that brought ba

ck a lot of memories for them. We were also fortunate to be able to participate in the local Veterans of Foreign Wars POW and MIA Day wreath laying ceremony recognizing those 83,417 troops the Defense Department lists as unaccounted for from our Nation’s wars stretching from WWII to Iraq and Afghanistan.

As mentioned Thursday night, we were recently made aware of an issue involving mail sent to trainees being returned to the sender or back to the Soldier’s home of record. As promised, we’re looking into the issue, but we’re still tracking down the answer. I know that you’re concerned about it – we are too – I appreciate your patience as we figure out what happened and how to fix the problem. I hope to have some good information to pass on to you sometime next week.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 1): The Bulldogs complete their first training week out at the range today for familiarization fire with the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (the “SAW”) and the M240B Medium Machine Gun. These two weapons provide the bulk of a Squad and Platoon’s combat power with their high sustained rates of fire. Every Soldier, regardless of his / her MOS, needs to become proficient on these weapons systems.

 

September 24

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Boy it sure was chilly this morning coming in for Physical Readiness Training; time to break out the long sleeve shirts for PRT! I had a fantastic time with the 7th Armored Division World W

ar II veterans and their families over the weekend. It was absolutely inspiring to be around them and hear about their experiences. Most importantly, the weekend served as a poignant reminder of the bonds of trust and friendship that form between Soldiers especially when facing and overcoming adversity.

It’s the start of a new week and one of the hot topics we’ll address this week is the mail issue that many of you mentioned late last week. We will work to get the issue resolved as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience as we figure out what happened and how to fix the problem.

Several of you have asked about when graduation information is sent out or that you haven’t received the information yet. Typically, the Company Commander sends out the graduation letter with the information you’re looking for during week 6 or 7 of training. In the mean time, you can get the dates for Graduation, Family Day, and the Warrior Banquet on our “Events” tab (to get to the “Events” tab, click the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab).

I would also like to encourage you to sign up to attend the Warrior Banquet with your Soldier. The Warrior Banquet is a semi-formal experience that introduces you to one of our most time honored traditions, the Regimental Mess. You can find out more about the Warrior Banquet by checking out our post on the “Notes” tab (to get to the “Notes” tab, click the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab). You can order tickets online at: https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/Leonardwoodrectrac.html

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 2): The Bulldogs start the first of three days of First Aid training. When complete they will test for the Combat Lifesaver Certification. Combat Lifesavers are critical care providers on today’s battlefield and have done amazing things to help save Soldiers’ lives, regardless of their military occupational specialty (MOS – their job), that during other conflicts would have led to death or catastrophic injuries.

 

September 25

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – It’s that crazy time of year here in Central Missouri when you never know what the day’s weather will be like; almost 25 degrees warmer this morning for PRT than yesterday. Awesome to see o

ur companies all out executing PRT this morning – was dragging a little myself, but seeing our Soldiers getting’ after it fired me up!

We made some headway yesterday tracking down the mail problem, but we’d like to give it another day or so before we say we’ve fixed the problem completely. Again, we thank you for your patience.

While I was traveling last week, I forgot to mention that the Fort Leonard Wood newspaper published two articles about Soldiers in our battalion last week – one on the continuing series their running following four Comanche Soldiers through Basic Combat Training and one highlighting the Bravo Bulldog cadre members who executed a community service project in the City of Dixon, Missouri on the first day of school this year. You can check out both articles at the following links:
http://www.myguidon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15223&Itemid=39

http://www.myguidon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15234&Itemid=40

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 2): The Bravo Bulldogs take a pause from First Aid training today and head out to the range to “Blow Stuff Up!” Today they execute familiarization with the AT4 Anti-Tank System and the M203 40mm Grenade Launcher. Soldiers will fire sub-caliber munitions for the AT4 and practice 40mm grenades with the M203. Some lucky Soldiers will get the opportunity to fire a live AT4 and high explosive 40mm grenades from the M203!

 

September 26

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Rainy start to our morning, but that won’t stop us from having a fantastic training day today!

As a reminder, please check out our “Notes” page (click the #2 drop down arrow next to the

“Videos” tab). On our “Notes” page you’ll find a wealth of information related to your Soldier’s Basic Combat Training experience that will help you through your “first deployment.”

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 2): This morning the Bulldogs started their day hosting 17 journalists from the University of Kansas Journalism School. We met with international, national, and local print and television news media. Some of them even participated in the same physical readiness training as your Soldiers. Think you’ve got game and want to experience what your Soldiers are during each morning to get those six-pack abs and tungsten steel muscles? Check out the Army’s Physical Readiness Training site on YouTube for video demonstrations that you can incorporate into your own daily work out plan
http://www.youtube.com/user/ArmyPhysicalFitness

Today the Bulldogs continue First Aid training on their way to earning their Combat Lifesaver Certification.

 

September 28

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Yesterday’s focus on suicide was a somber topic, but an important one that we need to address. It was fantastic to see how all our Soldiers took the day’s events seriously and worked to imp

rove their own resilience skills.

During our training stand-down yesterday our Soldiers learned the importance of understanding the linkage between an Action, our Thoughts, and the possible Consequences (ATC); how our own “Iceburgs” and “Thinking Traps” our unconscious thoughts and our mental paradigms can influence our thinking; how “Hunting the Good Stuff” each day can improve our overall outlook; and how practicing “Real Time Resilience” (RTR) can help us overcome negative self-talk, help us refocus, and get back on task. Based on what we saw, I think the entire day was beneficial not just for successfully completing Basic Combat Training, but also for facing and overcoming any adversity life throws at us.

Our battalion got some national, regional, and local recognition this week from the news media. If you remember on Wednesday, the Bravo Bulldogs hosted 17 journalists for PRT and breakfast in our Dining Facility (DFAC). Later that night, KCTV5, a Kansas City news station, ran a spot about it on their 10:00 p.m. news cast. You can check it out at: http://www.kctv5.com/story/19644412/kctv5s-stacey-cameron-experiences-life-in-the-american-military

Also our Delta Dawg cadre was in the Fort Leonard Wood paper The Guidon for their community service project in the City of Dixon a few weeks ago. They completed this project during their cycle reset period to help the community get ready for their annual town festival. You can check out that story at: http://www.myguidon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15242&Itemid=40

The Guidon also ran its sixth story following the Charlie Comanches through Basic Combat Training. Their story is at: http://www.myguidon.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15260&Itemid=39

We’re extremely proud of our Soldiers and Cadre for the work they do each and every day both here in the training environment and out in the community.

On to today’s training update – extremely foggy start to the morning, but should burn off for a great weather day.

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 2) – Continues First Aid training

 

September 29

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Fall must be in the air as the mornings continue to be a little chilly for PRT. It’s turning out to be a beautiful day though. Overall, we had a great week!

First and foremost – we’re pretty sure we got the mail situation taken care of throughout the week!

Saw some questions about how trainees who want to vote can do so. Please check out the “

Voting Assistance” post that we put up this morning on our “Notes” tab. To get to the “Notes” tab you have to click the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab.

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 2) – The Bulldogs are headed out to one Basic Combat Training’s signature events and one of my all time favorites – the Gas Chamber! Snot bubbles and tears everywhere guaranteed! In all seriousness, using C.S. gas, the training event demonstrates the effectiveness of the equipment provided to our Soldiers to keep them safe should they ever come in contact with a chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) environment.  

 

October 1

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Hard to believe that it’s October already, football season’s in full swing, children trying to figure out what they want to ‘be’ for Halloween, Columbus Day this coming weekend – and for us a full week of training for five of our six companies!

I saw several posts yesterday about phone calls - when Soldiers are allowed to call, how much time they

get to call, and who they call. Likewise, I saw recently a post about affording Soldiers time to write letters home. Part of the Soldier’s Creed and our Warrior Ethos states – ‘I will always place the mission first.’ Stated in a different way, the task I’m required to accomplish comes before me or my desires. While Sundays are a down day from full up training, there’s still a lot of work that has to get done. Once it’s done, then we can take care of our personal needs – washing clothes, packing our gear for the next day’s training, shower, phone call, letter writing. We also don’t dictate who Soldiers should call; they’re adults, they can make that choice. Each Soldier has at least an hour of personal time every night prior to lights out. How they use this time is entirely up to them – wash clothes, shower, some extra PT, write letters, read…

I would ask that all of us keep a little perspective related to phone calls. I know that for many of you, this may be your first time away from your Soldier for an extended period of time. Many of us in uniform have gone for months at a time during deployments without hearing our families’ voices on the phone or having much, if any, connection with the outside world. Our families had no idea what was going on because we didn’t routinely share information about combat operations. Here in BCT, we don’t have to worry about insurgents setting up road side bombs or shelling our base, but we do have work that has to get done. Basic Combat Training shapes us as Family Members and Friends building our personal resilience to overcome adversity the same as our Soldiers.

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – Today the Bulldogs complete the Physical Endurance Course - This one’s a smoker! Soldiers negotiate a series of highly challenging obstacles (ropes, tires, barbed wire, etc) as a test of agility, muscular strength, and endurance. This physically and mentally challenging event is designed to build your Soldier’s confidence and assess his / her overall physical fitness. This afternoon they’ll have introductory classes on Army communication systems – radios and reporting procedures.

 

October 2

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – We’ve got an incredibly full day of training in the Dragoon Battalion today!!

CSM Dokey and I were able to spend some time yesterday afternoon with the Bravo Bulldogs and the Delta Dawgs

for our battalion in brief providing an overview of BCT and our expectations for their performance. You can check out one of the videos we shared at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6xLYt265ZM&feature=related

We’ve seen several questions over the last few days related to Graduation, Family Day, pass privileges, travel arrangements, as well as several others. Please check out our “Notes” tab and the various posts there. You’ll find answers to several of your questions already posted. To get to the “Notes” tab click the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab.

For our Bravo Company Family Members and Friends specifically – we typically graduate BCT companies on Thursdays. However, because your Soldiers are scheduled to graduate during Thanksgiving week, we will be graduating them on WEDNESDAY, November 21st. We will hold Family Day for the Company and a special Thanksgiving Meal in our Dining Facility on THURSDAY, November 22nd, Thanksgiving Day so you don’t have to figure out what to do for a holiday meal. We have a lot of details to work out still, just wanted to give you a head’s up.

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – The Bulldogs got off to an early start this morning with an 8 kilometer road march (about 5 miles) to the Hand Grenade assault course and range. That’s right Family Members – real, live hand grenades!! Not to worry, before your Soldiers receive two live M67 High Explosive Hand Grenades to throw, they’ll receive extensive training on proper carrying, arming, aiming, and throwing techniques. They will also negotiate the hand grenade assault course requiring them to employ a practice inert grenade at various targets (bunker, trench, and area target). Soldiers must receive a ‘go’ at the low wall, the high wall (two different throwing positions) and on the assault course before they are cleared for the live grenade bay.

 

October 3

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Awesome start to our morning in the Dragoon Battalion with our companies out on Fort Leonard Wood’s roads for Ability Group Runs (AGRs) or interval workouts (30:60s or 60:120s)! Took the opportunity to run with the Echo Enforcers, the Charlie Comanches, and a little bit of time with the Delta Dawgs – though I think I ran up and down the hill outsi

de our brigade headquarters about 4 times today…

We’re continuing to get a lot of questions about activities and privileges – please refer to our “Notes” tab and the various posts provided there. If you only have time to read one post, I recommend the “Battalion Commander’s Soap Box”

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – Today the Bravo Bulldogs head out to the 30’ Warrior Tower for rappelling. Like yesterday’s events on the grenade range, the Warrior Tower provides Soldiers an opportunity to confront some of their fears and learn that they can overcome them with a little bit of heart, motivation and encouragement from the teammates, and sometimes, just a little ounce of courage.

 

October 4

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – CSM Dokey and I had an awesome time out with the Comanches last night at the Night Infiltration Course (NIC)! There’s something about live tracer rounds going off over your head that makes training seem a whole to more realistic. I’ll be honest, I was smoked when we got done low and high crawling under, around, and through barbed wire and other o

bstacles to reach our objective. After we reached the objective we spent some time discussing teamwork, discipline, our Warrior Ethos, and our Regimental veterans from World War II.

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – Yesterday CSM Dokey and I spent time with some of the Bulldogs hearing about their BCT experience thus far. We heard a lot of great things from these young Soldiers – always energizing to hear what they have to say! Today the Bulldogs negotiate the Land Navigation course. Using nothing more than a map, a compass, and their knowledge of the terrain, Soldiers have three hours to find three out of five points during the daylight phase of training and two out three points during the night phase. This can be a challenging event for Soldiers who have not spent a great deal of time in the woods prior to attending Basic Combat Training.

 

October 5

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – It’s the start of another awesome day in the Dragoon Battalion – AND it’s the end of another week of Basic Combat Training. Your Soldiers are one more week closer to achieving their goal of becoming a U.S. Army Soldier!

Yesterday the Fort Leonard Wood newspaper, "The Guidon," continued its series following Soldiers in Charlie Company through thei

r Basic Combat Training experience. You can check out the story at: http://www.myguidon.com/index.phpoption=com_content&task=view&id=15281&Itemid=39

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – This morning the Bulldogs will take their first diagnostic APFT to gauge their fitness level. Soldiers must pass the end of cycle APFT scoring 50 points or more in each event to graduate from BCT. They head out to their first Field Training Exercise (FTX) later today learning the basics of field craft – occupying an assembly area (base of operations), preparing a hasty fighting position, erecting a field expedient shelter (poncho hooch), and basic movement techniques as a member of a squad.

 

October 6

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – We had some rough weather here at Fort Leonard Wood yesterday that impacted our training somewhat, specifically the APFT. We want to provide Soldier’s with the best opportunity to succeed s

o we put them off until today.

Lots of conversation about graduation information being sent out to Family Members and Friends over the last week or so. I confirmed with the Alpha, Charlie, and Echo Company Commanders that they mailed graduation information packets. Each Soldier is provided with a graduation packet and an envelope; the Soldier addresses the envelope and returns it to the chain of command; the company operations cadre mails the packets. If a Soldier requires an additional graduation packet, he or she has to inform the cadre members otherwise we will not know that there’s a need.

On to today’s training update –

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 3) – The Bulldogs didn’t take their APFT yesterday due to the weather, but they did complete it this morning. Later today they continue Basic Rifle Marksmanship training with a grouping (getting all your shots within a quarter-sized circle) and zero (where you aim is where the bullets go) exercise at the Engagement Skills Trainer (EST). The EST is a fully functional simulation replicating the sights, sounds, and feel of actually firing a weapon on the range without actually firing live rounds. Most importantly, if affords Soldiers the opportunity to receive instant feedback on their performance.  

 

October 7

Good Afternoon Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Crazy Missouri weather going on today! After two crummy, rainy, and cold days Friday and Saturday, today is a beautiful fall day!! Hope Sunday is as beautiful where you are as well!

Lot

s and lots of photos and other stuff went up on the page yesterday! Hope you’ve enjoyed it.

I would like to highlight some things from a post many of you may not have seen and some other areas where we could use your help:

Earlier this week in one of our companies a Soldier received some contraband items in the mail from a Family Member. While we have that on occasion, what made this particular incident stand out is that the person who mailed the items attempted to smuggle them in by concealing them in personal hygiene items. This was a deliberate effort to deceive others and fail to follow the standard!

Likewise, we had a number of Soldiers in a company who decided to fail to follow their Drill Sergeant’s instructions when allowed to go to the Post Exchange for some personal items (shoes and other personal items unavailable at our local troop store). Rather than do as they were instructed, they wandered over to an area they’re not allowed to be in – and they know it.

Lastly, we had several Soldiers across a few companies who up and quit on their recent Army Physical Fitness Tests putting out very little overall effort and deciding to make it a community social event rather than an assessment of their own physical abilities.

Family Members and Friends I can’t stress this point enough, activities like the ones described above can put your Soldiers at graduation risk. Fortunately for the Soldier with the smuggled contraband, the cadre members discovered the items when mail was opened (yes, we do check things that come in care packages). Had we not, and had the Soldier made a poor choice to put the items in his / her wall locker instead of bringing it to the Drill Sergeant’s attention, that Soldier would face disciplinary action. Likewise, not doing what they’re supposed to do when given some limited freedom or a specific task, limits future privileges and brings more oversight from the cadre.

I saw and deleted some comments yesterday that suggested that failing to abide by standards or smuggle candy into Basic Combat Training isn’t that big of a deal. On the contrary, our Army is a standards based profession built upon the foundation of trust – trust that we’re living the Army Values always! When we lie, deceive, disrespect others, or serve our own self-interest, we’re not adhering to those Values.

Our cadre are some of the most dedicated and professional Soldiers I’ve had the opportunity to serve with over the last 20 some odd years. They are more than willing to devote personal time and energy above and beyond the long hours we already ask of them when they see that their Soldiers care, are committed to excellence, and want to improve. We want to see your loved ones be successful on their quest to become U.S. Army Soldiers!

Many of you have asked how you can motivate your Soldier – tell them to do the things their supposed to do, be a team player, and commit themselves to excellence rather than just getting by. I would also ask that you help your Soldiers by not putting them into positions that may compromise their integrity or cause them stray off the path they’ve chosen. Most of our Family Members and Friends understand this and I can’t tell you how much we appreciate your support!!

As always Sundays are set aside for voluntary attendance at one of Fort Leonard Wood’s many religious services, getting ready for the next week’s training, and area clean-up.

We’ve got a full week of training ahead!! Looking forward to getting after it this week; Basic Combat Training – it’s ALWAYS a Good Time…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7HmzwI67ec

Hope your Sunday’s a good one! “By Force and Valor!” LTC Anderson, Dragoon 6

 

(This was R.J.'s Company. They got in big trouble!)

 

October 8

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – We’re off to a good start for the week today here at Fort Leonard Wood; it’s gonna be a great week with several ranges, some confidence building events, and a culminating Field Training Exercise and Rites of Passage (ROP) ceremony for one of our companies. We hope that you’re enjoying Columbus Day. Though it’s a ‘down’ day for major training even

ts, there’s always something going on as we continue our Basic Combat Training mission transforming citizen volunteers into U.S. Army Soldiers.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 4) – Today they’ve got practice Drill and Ceremony and Basic Rifle Marksmanship enhancement training on one of our weapons simulators. Later this week they’ll fire their first live rounds on the rifle marksmanship range.

 

October 10

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – When I checked our FB page last night to see what came up over the course of the day, I realized I never posted an update yesterday. Hard to believe how fast our days move, though with five companies and over 900 Soldiers in training, we always have things going on.

If you’re new to our page or have a specific question related to Basic Combat Tra

ining, before posting please check out our “Notes” and “Events” tabs. You can get to them by clicking the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab above. You’ll find a wealth of information already provided to you. If, after checking the posts on the “Notes” and “Events” tabs, you still have a question, please let us know.

For our Charlie Comanche Family Members and Friends travelling to Fort Leonard Wood next week for Graduation Week activities we have some important information for you:

Getting on to Fort Leonard Wood requires anyone over the age of 18 to have photo identification. Drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license, show proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. You do not need a pass. If you rent a car, your rental contract serves as your vehicle registration. You do not need anything special or additional if you’re borrowing a vehicle. Your vehicle is subject to search at any time you are on the installation. Unregistered privately owned weapons are not allowed on the installation and create significant problems for you if you bring one on post. Also, you are subject to a $75 fine if caught driving while using a cell phone without a hands-free device (speaker phone does not constitute a hands-free device).

If you are a new Army Spouse and you do not have a DoD Dependent ID Card, you must use your time during Family Day and Graduation to get one! I cannot stress this point strongly enough. Having an ID Card while your Soldier is away at AIT allows you access to many services provided to Soldiers and their Families. In order to get one while you’re here if you do not already have one you must bring: the original, filed and recorded marriage license, the spouse’s birth certificate, the spouse’s Social Security Card, and a photo ID. Children over 10 also must have an ID card, requirements for a biological child of the Soldier and the spouse must have their birth certificate and social security card. The ID Card Section is open from 6:00 am – 7:00 am for walk-ins; after 7:00 am they serve appointments only. Unfortunately, the ID Card Section is closed on Thursdays after 1200. If you have further questions or want to make an appointment you can call (573) 596-0744.

Lastly, please keep your personal safety and security in mind as you finalize your travel plans. I know you’re excited about seeing your Soldier and connecting with other Families, but remember that this is an open page anyone can see. Posting your travel plans, where you’re staying, and when you’ll be away from your home provide others with an opportunity to see when your home is most vulnerable – they may not always have your best interest in mind. It’s best to send personal messages if you’re trying to connect with others as opposed to posting on the page.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 4) – Yesterday the Bulldogs continued Basic Rifle Marksmanship training with a grouping (getting all your shots within a quarter-sized circle) and zero (where you aim is where the bullets go) exercise at the Engagement Skills Trainer (EST). The EST is a fully functional simulation replicating the sights, sounds, and feel of actually firing a weapon on the range without actually firing live rounds. Most importantly, if affords Soldiers the opportunity to receive instant feedback on their performance. Today they’re executing post clean-up detail, a daily requirement on our installation due to its size. Every basic training company executes post detail once during their cycle

 

October 11

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – It’s the start of another great Army day here at Fort Leonard Wood!! Fall is definitely upon us in full swing with cooler temperatures and leaves changing colors. If you’re traveling to Fort Leonard Wood in the next few weeks, please make sure that you pack for the weather as it can get pretty chilly (around 30 degrees this morning) if you’re not

used to it.

If you’re new to our page or have a specific question related to Basic Combat Training, before posting please check out our “Notes” and “Events” tabs. You can get to them by clicking the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab above. You’ll find a wealth of information already provided to you. If, after checking the posts on the “Notes” and “Events” tabs, you still have a question, please let us know.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 4) – Fort Leonard Wood sure looked good yesterday afternoon after the Bulldogs finished up their post detail requirement. Today they continue Basic Rifle Marksmanship training by firing their first live rounds during Grouping and Zeroing on a 25 meter target. Over the next three days your Soldiers will refine their marksmanship skills. Today’s training is a critical period as it sets the foundation and builds confidence that what a Soldier aims at he / she can hit. Weapons qualification is one of the single most stressful events in Basic Combat Training – Soldiers must qualify on their individual weapon to graduate.

 

October 12

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Kinda gloomy start to the morning weather-wise, but still a great day to train! It’s Friday and the end of another week of Basic Combat Training. Family Members and Friends – you’re one week closer to completing your “First Deployment” away from your Soldier!

If you’re new to our page or have a specific question related to Basic Combat Training,

before posting please check out our “Notes” and “Events” tabs. You can get to them by clicking the #2 drop down arrow next to the “Videos” tab above. You’ll find a wealth of information already provided to you. If, after checking the posts on the “Notes” and “Events” tabs, you still have a question, please let us know.

I would like to take a moment to recognize two of our outstanding Drill Sergeants – DS Macias (A Co) and DS Spiller (E Co). Yesterday they renewed their commitment to serving the Nation by reenlisting. Our congratulations to each of these dedicated NCOs!

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 4) – The Bulldogs complete their zero and grouping training today.

 

Yesterday

10/15/2012

Good Morning Dragoon Family Members and Friends – Everyone in the battalion was up and ready to go for the start of another week in Basic Combat Training this morning; beautiful sunrise as we finished up PRT and headed off to breakfast.

A friendly reminder for our Bravo Bulldog Family Members and Friends, if you intend on attending the Warrior Banquet / special holiday meal on Thanksgiving Day wi

th your Soldier in our Dining Facility, we need your RSVP by the end of October so we have the right amount of food. You can call (573) 596-0331 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

On to today’s training update:

Bravo Bulldogs (Week 5): As the CSM and I walked around our battalion area this morning during Physical Readiness Training, we couldn’t help be hear “I’m Sexy and I Know it” as we passed the Bravo Bulldogs. They’re headed off for Uniform Fit today for their Army Service Uniform (ASUs – our dress blues)

 

OK to catch everyone up R.J. got shin splints (really really bad ones) back in week 3 and 4 and missed a lot of training. That sunday when the contraband and everything went on I did not get to have my call from him. We usually get 15min calls every Sunday. But because he failed his PT test because he missed so much training he did not get to call. Also, because of the holiday on Monday letters did not get out to us till that Friday night. I went 2 weeks without knowing what was wrong with R.J. if he was in trouble, if he was getting medical discharge. I was horrible. I finally got a call this last Sunday the 14th He is doing much better now. He is off his medical profile and he made up all the training he missed. He passed his PT test and now he is onto Red Phase! YAY Well, Everyone is caught up mostly. Now to just my nightly posts! Thanks for reading. Sorry there is so much but I had to catch up. Bellow are some pictures of R.J. at Basic during these past weeks. Not many but they have a big platoon so im glad I got some!