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Contents June 30, 2018, Vol. 67, No. 6
TO THE FIELD 12
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ARSOAC Commander Update By BG John R. Evans, Jr.
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ARSOAC Command Chief Warrant Officer Update By CW5 Mark A. Meyer
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ARSOAC Command Sergeant Major Update By CSM Billy D. Webb and MAJ Seth Gulsby
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Combat Readiness Center Update By COL Christopher W. Waters
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Reserve Components Aviation Update By COL J. Ray Davis and CPT(P) Matthew Summey
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128th Aviation Brigade Update By SSG Cody Cox
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Tech Talk By Mr. Kevin Reeves
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Ask the Flight Surgeon By CPT Gurdeep Buttar, M.D.
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SPECIAL FOCUS — Army Special Operations Aviation 28
Bridging the Aviation Education Gap By MAJ Sean Karrels and CW4 Brett McFarland
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ALSE: A Special Operations Aviation Perspective By CW5 Eli Mayers
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36 Risk to Development: Achieving Sustained Mission Readiness
and Organizational Health By MAJ Scott Gale and CW4 Thad King
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FARP Team Support to Special Operations Aviation By CPT Ryan G. Brown
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Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion: Beyond Special Operations Training By LTC Brian E. Supko and MAJ Phillip T. Vaughn
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Aviation Enlisted Technical Proficiency Gap: The Problem or a Symptom By MSG Christopher Kitchens and MSG Dustin Campbell
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Contents June 30, 2018, Vol. 67, No. 6
SPECIAL FOCUS 46
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44 Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit Recap
First Place
SPECIAL FOCUS 54 2017 ARMY AVIATION Magazine Photo Contest Winners Second Place ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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April/May 2018
FROM THE FIELD 58
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Next Generation Air-To-Ground Missile Testing At YPG By MAJ Matthew Miskowski and Mr. Mark Schauer
DEPARTMENTS
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AAAA NEWS AAAA President’s Cockpit........................................................................................................8 AAAA VP Chapter Affairs.......................................................................................................64 Chapter News.........................................................................................................................69 AAAA VP Membership...........................................................................................................66 New Members....................................................................................................................... 67 AAAA Family Forum.................................................................................................................68 AAAA Legislative Report........................................................................................................ 73 AAAA Scholarship Foundation............................................................................................62
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ARMY AVIATION COMMUNITY NEWS Advertisers Index...................................................................................................................... 72 Art’s Attic....................................................................................................................................... 78 Briefings...........................................................................................................................................6 Calendar....................................................................................................................................... 67 Hall of Fame................................................................................................................................. 79 Historical Perspective.............................................................................................................60 Industry News............................................................................................................................. 72 In Memoriam ............................................................................................................................... 71 People on the Move................................................................................................................ 74 Spotlight........................................................................................................................................59
ARMY AVIATION is the official journal of the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA). The views expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors, not the Department of Defense or its elements. The content does not necessarily reflect the official U.S. Army position nor the position of the AAAA or the staff of Army Aviation Publications, Inc., (AAPI). Title Reg® in U.S. Patent office. Registration Number 1,533,053. SUBSCRIPTION DATA: ARMY AVIATION (ISSN 0004-248X) is published monthly, except May and September by AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806. Tel: (203) 268-2450, FAX: (203) 268-5870, E-Mail:
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[email protected]. Website: http://www.quad-a.org. Subscription rates for non-AAAA members: $30, one year; $58, two years; add $10 per year for foreign addresses other than military APOs. Single copy price: $4.00. ADVERTISING: Display and classified advertising rates are listed in SRDS Business Publications, Classification 90. POSTMASTER: Periodicals postage paid at Monroe, CT and other offices. Send address changes to AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.
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June 30, 2018
Publisher / William R. Harris Jr.
Briefings u
Late Breaking News - Announcements
Army Inspecting Apache Fleet
USAACE Welcomes New CSM
Editor / CW4 (Ret.) Joseph L. Pisano Sr.
[email protected]
Web Edition / Trudy Hodenfield
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Family Forum Editor / Judy Konitzer
[email protected] Advertising Director / Robert C. Lachowski
[email protected] Advertising Manager / Erika Burgess
[email protected] Marketing Director / Jennifer Chittem
[email protected] VP Business Development / Sal D. Lucci
[email protected] Circulation Department Deb Cavallaro Debbie Coley Elisabeth Mansson Sue Stokes Web Master / Mary Seymour
[email protected] Editorial Address 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806 Tel: (203) 268-2450 / Fax: (203) 268-5870
The U.S. Army is inspecting its entire fleet of Apache helicopters following detection of a number of defective nuts that keep the main rotors attached to the helicopter. The issue was cited as a factor in the 2016 AH-64D accident off the coast of Texas which resulted in the death of two pilots. According to BG Thomas Todd, PEO Aviation, the U.S. Army stopped accepting the latest version of the Apache, the AH-64E, from manufacturer Boeing in March over a potential latent defect of the main rotor strap pack retention nut common to both the AH-64D and AH-64E models. It took Boeing and the Army some time to establish the root cause of the corrosion and aggressive wear and tear on the nut; but a cause has been identified and the Army has approved a redesign. The redesigned strap pack is a fully qualified and airworthy solution to mitigate failure due to stress corrosion cracking of the outboard nut, and retrofit is projected to begin in June, Todd said.
MG William K. Gayler, (left) U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker commanding general, passes the Aviation Branch Colors to the incoming branch command sergeant major, CSM Brian N. Hauke, during a change of responsibility ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum, May 7. He replaces CSM Gregory Chambers who has held the position since March 2016 and moves to the Pentagon as the director of the Nominative Sergeants Major Program Office.
Kushner Speaks at The Wall COURTESY PHOTO: VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL FUND
Contributing Editor / Mark Albertson
[email protected]
Miller Named to Head Resolute Support
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY SFC WHITNEY HUGHES
www.ARMYAVIATIONmagazine.com
On The Cover PAID ADVERTISEMENT: Bell, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has successfully completed the next milestone of its V-280 Valor flight testing by flying in “cruise mode,” where the rotors pivot, in flight, from vertical lift mode to fully forward facing. This occasion also saw the aircraft reach 190 knots of true airspeed as it continues to expand the envelope and demonstrate the V-280 Valor’s capabilities at speeds expected to reach 280 knots. Caption provided by the advertiser. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
LTG Austin S. “Scott” Miller, pictured here at the Joint Training Center in Jordan in April, has been nominated for promotion to the rank of general and assigned to command the NATO Resolute Support Mission and U.S. Forces-Afghanistan. He currently commands the Joint Special Operations Command, Joint Special Operations Command Forward, Ft. Bragg, NC. If confirmed by the Senate, he will replace GEN John Nicholson who has held the position since March 2016. 6
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY KELLY P. MORRIS
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY SSG ISOLDA REYES
Director of Design & Production Anne H. Ewing
[email protected]
Former Army Aviation Hall of Fame Chairman, COL (Ret.) Hal Kushner, M.D., delivers a powerful speech at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC on Memorial Day, April 28, to the thousands of veterans and their families who congregated to remember and to honor those who served in the U.S. armed forces. A video of Dr. Kushner’s thoughtful, moving and patriotic comments, including an introductory bio, can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrwTNyulo0&app=desktop.
Ft. Rucker Wins Installation Award
Defense Secretary James N. Mattis announced on May 17th that Fort Rucker, AL was chosen as one of five recipients of the 2018 Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence. Each winning installation receives a commemorative Commander in Chief's Award trophy and flag and a congratulatory letter from the president. June 30, 2018
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President’s Cockpit
Biggest and Best Yet –
The 2018 Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit in Nashville
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Our 2018 Summit was a record setter by every measure but most of all because almost 8,000 AAAA members and families participated in the event in Nashville last month for three days of outstanding Networking, Recognition, Voicing your concerns, and Support. The opening video celebrating the 35th Birthday of the Aviation Branch on April 12, 1983 really set the stage. The three Soldier-centered tributes by Mike Sheuerman, President of the VHPA; Army Astronaut COL Shane Kimbrough, Ret.; and the very emotional reunion of the support dog Unno team I told you about in the January issue stressed that people are what we are all about. What a pleasure it was to finally meet Unno; his donor, Army SFC Christopher Smith and mom Susana; wounded Marine Garrett Carnes; United Airlines flight attendant Molli Oliver; and United Airlines corporate representatives VP Mike Quiello and Jim Casey. Some of the professional highlights you will see in the photo wrap up starting on page 46 of this issue were the Keynote address by our own Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, GEN Jim ARMY AVIATION Magazine
AAPI PHOTO BY BILL HARRIS
OW! It is so hard to believe that a year has come and gone since you elected me and the other members of the National Executive Group to our current positions at last year’s Annual Summit. We are all honored and humbled to serve you, our 17,000 members, and your families.
Members of the Army Aviation “Six-Pack” gathered to celebrate at the Hall of Fame Induction Banquet, April 26, 2018 at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville, TN. From the left: BG Thomas H. Todd III, Program Executive Officer, Aviation; MG William K. Gayler, Army Aviation Branch Chief and Commanding General, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, Alabama; MG Douglas M. Gabram, Commanding General, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Life Cycle Management Command; MG Frank W. Tate, Director of Army Aviation, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army; and BG John R. Evans Jr., Commanding General, U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command. Not pictured is Mr. John L. Shipley, Associate Director for Technology Applications/Director of Special Programs, Special Operations Directorate, AMCOM.
McConville, and presentations by Mr. Jeff White, Principal Deputy AL&T, and members of “The Six-Pack” led by Aviation Branch Chief MG Bill Gayler including MG Doug Gabram, MG Frank Tate, BG John Evans, BG Thomas Todd, and the Safety briefing by BG Dave Francis. All these actual videos are available at www.quad-a.org. On the Recognition side of our four pillars of Networking, Recognition, Voice and Support, was of course the AAAA National Awards presentations and the Army Aviation Hall of Fame inductions. If you missed the Hall of Fame Banquet I must say you missed an extremely emotional and humbling event and would encourage you to join with us next year. 8
Whenever I sometimes get concerned about politics or bureaucracy, all it takes is a second of reflection on the achievements and particularly the acceptance remarks of these great Americans to get me revved up on what this country is truly all about. Courage, tenacity, persistence through adversity, family support and care for their brothers and sisters in service were what was on display in a big way. Again, I encourage you to view the videos of the Thursday morning 26 April 18 awards program and that night’s Hall of Fame event for some real inspiration. Industry support was truly outstanding with record sponsorship and exhibit sales. Our industry members make possible all the programs and Support June 30, 2018
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we provide to our chapters throughout the year and even our support of the Scholarship Foundation. Thank you all. As far as Networking, nothing was more powerful than our AAAA Chapter Workshop organized by our VP Chapters, LTC Jan Drabczuk, Ret. Again, a record number of officers and chapters were represented and were able to review AAAA policies and procedures and discuss issues of concern at the operational level. Jan will be providing key takeaways to all our AAAA chapters in the coming weeks. Speaking of AAAA business, the board decided at its Summit meeting to modify the approval procedure for the Order of Saint Michael Knight award and make it mirror the Bronze OSM by having the approval authority rest with the local chapter president. Like the OSM Bronze, the Knights issued will be reviewed quarterly by the Silver OSM committee to maintain standards. Also please note that the Bronze level OSM has been modified at the enlisted criteria level to make sure that our best and brightest enlisted personnel qualify for this recognition.
Socially the event was off the charts with fantastic industry-sponsored receptions, and last but not least the Bell-sponsored Big and Rich Soldier Appreciation Dinner/Concert on Friday night. Not only did the band recognize our award winners and wounded Honored Heroes, they invited Howard Burbank and his wife from the Vietnam-era 227th Reunion up on stage along with Unno’s new dad Garrett Carnes. Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t ask you all to remember a great man who has just passed, GEN Crosbie E. (Butch) Saint, Ret. A brilliant mind, incredible leader, and a great friend to Army Aviation and AAAA, Butch was a plank holder in initiating our Senior Executive Associates program, he was a recipient of the Gold Order of Saint Michael, and was also recognized with the AAAA Presidents Award for all he had done during and after his career. I know he is now leading Cavalry charges on Fiddlers Green with so many of his friends and colleagues. Sir, we salute you and we miss you greatly. Please see page 71 for his full obituary. Thanks again for making it such
a great year. As we look forward to the next twelve months let’s all share the experience of AAAA with fellow professionals who are not yet members. Think of the impact at your local chapter level if each current member got just one new member over the next year. What a difference that would make for your events, scholarships and even impact in your local communities. Ultimately we all take care of each other by living the AAAA mission statement, “Supporting the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family.” Our dues have not increased since 1998! At $15 for students and enlisted, and $26 for everyone else, that value cannot be beat. Spouses, children and grandchildren can be members and we really need to work on gaining more traction in our junior enlisted ranks. You can do it. Sign someone up today. Thanks again to all who made our past year and especially our 2018 Summit such a success. Above the Best! BG Steve Mundt, Ret. 33rd President, AAAA
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u ARSOAC Commander Update Publisher’s Note: For this Special Operations Aviation focused issue, the branch chief, MG William K. Gayler, has coordinated having the commanding general of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command, BG John R. Evans, Jr., his command chief warrant officer, and command sergeant major provide the lead, “To the Field,” command group articles.
ARSOA 2035:
Maintaining the Strategic and Technological Advantage By BG John R. Evans, Jr.
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he 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), the operational arm of U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (ARSOAC), has to be postured and ready at all times.
Today, the ARSOAC has Soldiers and helicopters positioned across the globe supporting our special operators. They face an enemy that presents complex and ambiguous challenges that we must be prepared to meet. Several factors and patterns contribute to the future operating environment ARSOA units will contend with in the 2035 time frame. Meeting those future challenges requires a calculated approach while rapidly adapting to meet tomorrow’s threats and requirements. ARSOA 2035, our long-range strategic roadmap, is a nested effort with ARSOAC, U.S. Army Special Operations Command and U.S. Army strategic planning processes and guidance. It provides the framework that allows ARSOA to retain a comparative advantage in technology, capability and human capital as we provide aviation support to the world’s most elite special operations forces. To accomplish our unique mission, there are four imperatives we must deliberately and routinely execute to standard: provide and sustain the current ARMY AVIATION Magazine
force; assess the current force; develop the future force; and generate the future force. Human capital and the management of that capital are the foundation of our organizational future and critical to achieving our strategic priorities. 12
Strategic Priorities We’ve aligned our strategic priorities into four broader categories: sustain our core competencies; provide SOA support forward, maintain the comparative advantage, and affordable readiness. Our first priority identifies what June 30, 2018
makes ARSOA forces unique, valuable and difficult to replicate. Our commitment to culture yields a cohesive, professional force, focused on competence, character and successful mission accomplishment. Furthermore, the agility offered by assuming an adaptive and innovative mindset allows ARSOA to meet the requirements of the evolving future operating environment. We have always prided ourselves on the ability to rapidly acquire new technologies and use innovative ideas to ensure overmatch against our adversaries. This is more important now than ever before. Our second strategic priority focuses on providing our nation with the capabilities required to meet its global objectives. ARSOA’s third priority ensures we are capable of supporting ground and maritime SOF across the spectrum of operations and with viable strategic options. Our capabilities must address the full spectrum of operations, environments and threat. We must be experts in maneuverability, survivability, lethality, command and control and acquisition and procurement.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
And, finally, our fourth strategic priority is affordable readiness. If our task was solely to provide our nation with the best SOF aviation capability in the world, unconstrained, it would be relatively easy. The reality is we have to be affordable. In part, we do this by leveraging joint and Service common solutions that meet our special operations requirements when it makes sense, as well as the interoperability and commonality of components on our airframes. Our priorities define our current state and a future end state and provide direction and guidance to bridge the gap between where we are and where we need to be. We will continue to provide value to the broader Army Aviation Enterprise and nurture a collaborative relationship. I frequently tell the ARSOAC team, “As goes Army Aviation, so goes the ARSOAC.” Changing Leadership ARSOAC will have welcomed and will welcome some new leadership this year. In June Colonel Allan Pepin will
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be welcomed as the new ARSOAC commander. CSM Billy Webb assumed the reins as the command sergeant major in February after serving 15 years in all leadership positions at the Regiment. We will also welcome a new Command Chief Warrant Officer, Chief Warrant Officer 5 David Greenwood. Col. Phil Ryan will relinquish command of the Regiment to Col. Scott Wilkinson after two years of stellar leadership. It has been a pleasure to return to the SOA enterprise as commander of the ARSOAC. I’ve had the privilege of being part of this special team for over 22 years. The men and women of the ARSOAC are more than capable to meet the challenges the future holds, and years from now I’ll rest easy knowing that they’re standing watch. It’s humbling to have been counted among their number. Volare Optimos! To fly the best! BG John R. Evans, Jr. is the commander of U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command located at Fort Bragg, NC.
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u ARSOAC Command Chief Warrant Officer Update
Special Operations Forces Integration The Magic By CW5 Mark A. Meyer An MH-47 at the Technical Applications Program Management Office (TAPO) facility at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA.
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oday’s process for Army Aviation acquisition is thoroughly regulated, extremely regimented, potentially expensive and can take great lengths of time to complete. Which, in some cases, results in many projects falling into the warfighter hands years after the requirement was identified. For Special Operations Forces (SOF), the time needed must be reduced to months from capability gap identification to field in small quantities, known as “rapid prototyping and fielding.” This process is what drove the creation of the Systems Integration Office at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, in 1981 until present day supporting the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). In later years, the Systems Integration Office developed into the Systems Integration Management Office, better known as SIMO. SIMO operated out of an old and tired hangar that housed two offices adjoining the Aviation Maintenance Support Office (AMSO). The purpose of the two directorates was to rapidly field technology to the SOF aviation enterprise with sustainment and requireARMY AVIATION Magazine
ments solved from the beginning. In December of 2017, the two directorates combined including fielding teams for larger modification requirements (block upgrades, new model aircraft, etc.) Today, the new facility is 48,600 sq. ft. of labs, offices, depot operations, conference and communication centers and centralized operations and supply management. The state of the art building is an integrated government/contractor/manufacturing and depot operation synergizing Special Operations Aviation design, integration and sustainment. As this is now an infusion of many disciplines it only makes sense that it became known as a fusion of those disciplines – The Aviation Materiel Management Center (AMMC). The Technical Applications Program Management Office (TAPO) at Ft. Eustis, Virginia, is a dedicated chartered organization purely for SOA projects. Working directly for the U.S. Special Operations Command Acquisition 14
Technology and Logistics, TAPO holds the responsibility to collect the requirements and churn solutions at the program management level. The true magic occurs when SIMO and AMSO come together to provide continuous integration throughout the entire technology development processes. Both SIMO and AMSO house current SOF aviators and crewmembers to maintain the pulse on rapid requirements. Not only are the requirements rapidly identified via capability gaps, the SIMO team ensures testing and validation is met to air-worthiness standards. Some projects have taken as little as a few months to solve giving SOF dire capabilities on the battlefield. Synergy defines the AMMC with work efficiency, speed of delivery and cogent communication. The ability to cross-pollinate across all disciplines within SIMO and AMSO, special projects and the capabilities of an internal skunk works. A place where “solutions happen.” The SOF acquisition team optic has not changed. It is and always will be on the Warfighter. SIMO and AMSO, under the envelope of the AMMC title, is an efficient and rapid solutions group dedicated to the Army Aviation Special Operations Aviation enterprise. Projects and material solutions developed within the SOF aviation enterprise has been the key to mission success for the Army at large and the United States Special Operations community. Volare Optimos! To Fly the Best! CW5 Mark A. Meyer is the fourth command chief warrant officer of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, NC. June 30, 2018
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u ARSOAC Command Sergeant Major Update
The Forefront of SOF UAS Training
ARSOAC COURTESY PHOTO
By CSM Billy D. Webb and MAJ Seth Gulsby
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oung and talented unmanned aerial systems (UAS) operators are deployed to two different areas of responsibility and are at the front of UAS operations that demonstrate a unique understanding of the operational environment with a skill that the ground force they support has come to trust. So how did these SOF UAS operators get to this point? Having just completed the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR) Green Platoon Combat Skills Course (EGP), these young Special Operations warriors receive further technical training to become basic mission qualified (BMQ ) UAS crewmembers in the U.S. Army’s Special Operations Forces MQ-1C Gray Eagle program. This system supports Special Operations Forces (SOF) around the globe. The 2nd Battalion, 160th SOAR with the help of the Special Operations Training Battalion (SOATB) developed a course that enables UAS operators to build on the skills taught at Advanced Individual Training (AIT) or learned from other units with Army Aviation. The course is SOF UAS BMQ, and it nearly mirrors the MH-60/47 BMQ course taught in SOATB that at the end of the pipeline crewmembers are basic mission qualified and able to deploy in support of war-time efforts. The curriculum has established a ARMY AVIATION Magazine
standardized, tested and validated progression program for UAS operators in a veritable training wilderness where no Army Regulation dictates a fixed standard. This structured pipeline allows commanders to effectively choose crews and build teams for a very demanding mission set. It has been crucial for the effective management of proficiency levels across the formation and helps drive risk management in support of the ground force. The U.S. Army’s Special Operations MQ-1C Gray Eagle program has operated on the leading edge of the unmanned operational spectrum with two forward deployed platoons: a fully operational training platoon in the U.S.; and a relentless demand signal from the supported SOF enterprise. For many years, the SOF MQ-1C program has shared in the same qualification courses and training regulations with the rest of Army Aviation. By the same token, the SOF MQ-1C program has also shared in the same lack of published standardized training packages. 16
The MQ-1C Gray Eagle is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft system.
Considering the unique requirements for Special Operations units, the SOF MQ-1C program unequivocally demonstrated its need to consistently train competent operators in order to build and sustain the force. To address this challenge, the SOF MQ-1C enterprise, with SOATB, designed the SOF UAS BMQ Course. This program follows SOATB’s other initial-entry training program which takes newly assigned UAS operators and prepares them for SOF UAS missions. The Curriculum SOF UAS BMQ Course curriculum centers on an iterative training schedule that consists of ten simulator flights and ten aircraft flights in twenty total training days. Soldiers entering the course spend the first ten days conducting simulator training on Ft. Campbell, KY specific scenarios. Soldiers and trainers spend the next five days on active flights to progress to Readiness Level (RL) 1. This is followed by a full mission profile (FMP) week in the simulator flying in different locations for each daily FMP iteration. Soldiers attending the course are paired with the highly trained aircraft commanders of E Co., 2-160th SOAR (Abn.). The 20 iteration requirement allows each Soldier more time and exJune 30, 2018
CSM Billy D. Webb is the command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command headquartered at Fort Bragg, NC; MAJ Seth Gulsby is the commander of Company E, 2nd Bn., 160 Special Operations Aviation Regiment headquartered at Fort Campbell, KY. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
CSM Chambers Farewell
I would like to thank the Aviation Branch for everything you do on a daily and nightly basis. On 7 May 2018, CSM Brian Hauke assumed the responsibilities of the Aviation Branch CSM. Brian is a phenomenal leader and experienced Aviation Soldier and he will take the Branch to the next level. Thank you for letting me be your Branch CSM. It was an honor and a pleasure serving in this position. Service to our Soldiers is why this job was the best one in my career. You are all great Americans and thank you for protecting our great country. Above the Best! CSM Greg Chambers
Editor’s Note: As CSM Chambers completes his tour as the command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, AL, we at ARMY AVIATION thank him for his support and wish him and his wife, Rebecca, all the best in his future assignment.
Enlisted Aviation Soldier Spotlight Each issue we will feature a past AAAA National or Functional Enlisted or NCO Award winner as part of our ongoing recognition of the Best of the Best in our Aviation Branch. The CY 2017 National winners were featured in the April/May AAAA Annual Summit issue.
SSG Dilon E. Medina Company E, 227th Regiment 1st Air Cavalry Brigade Fort Hood, Texas
Aviation
2017 Unmanned Aircraft Systems Soldier of the Year Sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
SSG Dilon Medina served as an aircraft commander and platoon sergeant for Echo Company, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade. He consistently demonstrated superior judgment and unmatched technical expertise in the MQ-1C Gray Eagle and earned the distinction as the company’s top UAS Soldier. SSG Medina embodied the best example of a noncommissioned officer during the unit’s deployment to Operation Inherent Resolve. Junior operators relied on his vast knowledge and experience with the MQ-1C platform to develop their proficiency in the aircraft. His keen flying abilities and daily instruction during combat missions resulted in four other operators becoming aircraft commanders. Due to his understanding of UAS gunnery, he was directly responsible for 88 autonomous Hellfire engagements, 66 of which he directly guided the missile to its target; his engagement record was unsurpassed by any other operator during the unit’s deployment. His ability to successfully solve problems and overcome obstacles made SSG Medina the “go-to” NCO in this unit. His aptitude, UAS technical skills, and sound leadership resulted in 36 Gray Eagle Operators flying over 12,800 hours during the nine month deployment. 17
AAPI FILE PHOTO
posure to learn at a progressively higher proficiency level the required tasks for each flight. As the Soldier progresses through the course, more realistic gunnery scenarios and emergency procedures gradually immerse the Soldier into the mission before ever being exposed to it in real life. Extreme care has been taken to ensure the scenarios are realistic and detailed. Each training mission reflects current mission sets and exposes the Soldier to actual chat windows and prerecorded audio scripts that simulate both ground and air assets. The end result is a BMQ UAS crewmember ready to deploy and provide unmatched attack reconnaissance for the SOF Enterprise and supported ground forces. The SOF UAS BMQ Course is still in its infancy. While training is being conducted and classes are taking place, the program is working to establish a single source document that covers Qualification, Readiness Level Progression, Aircraft Commander Progression and Instructor Operator Qualification. This document follows the already approved Gray Eagle Qualification Course. As more SOF UAS BMQ Courses graduate, this document will be refined and validated before being institutionalized within SOATB. Ultimately, SOATB will have a formal program of instruction that graduates an RL1 and BMQ UAS operator. Once the program reaches this desired end state and survives multiple rounds of internal validation, the Army SOF UAS community intends to share the training program with the rest of the Army MQ-1C enterprise. Throughout the past few years, the Army Special Operations MQ1C program has continually explored new technologies and refined tactics associated with the MQ-1C platform. Many of these changes are being adopted throughout the wider UAS community. Constantly seeking change with a purpose follows the Special Operations charter of developing tactics, techniques and procedures to share with the wider Army UAS enterprise.
June 30, 2018
u Combat Readiness Center Update
Status of the Army Safety Program, FY18 By COL Christopher W. Waters
Aviation The manned aviation Class A mishap rate, currently at 1.04 per 100,000 flight hours, remains below the 10-year benchmark and slightly above FY17’s closeout rate of 0.99. Our aviators continue to train with an emphasis on emergency procedures and combat maneuvering at low levels will prepare them to execute lower flight profiles safely. Unmanned aviation losses are on a downward trend. The MQ-1C Gray Eagle Class A rate has fallen 48 percent since FY16, due in large part to UAS Tiger Team recommendations. Year to date, actual MQ-1C Class A losses are down by half (three versus six in FY17), and RQ-7 Shadow mishaps are stable with last fiscal year. Short-term aviation risk management initiatives include upcoming publication of the standardized Army Aviation Battle Book; the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center’s “near miss” brief, scheduled for presentation to all combat aviation brigades by the end of FY18; integration of near-miss reporting in the Aviation Data Exploitation Capability; and launch of near-miss reporting functionality in the Army Safety and Occupational Health Enterprise Information Management System beginning 2QTR FY19. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY ERICH BACKES
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ith about four months to go in fiscal year 2018, the Army continues at or below 10year averages in all Class A mishap categories. Mishap fatalities, however, are up nearly 25 percent year to date (primarily due to increases in Army Motor Vehicle and offduty mishaps).
An AH-64 Apache helicopter with Task Force Viper, 1st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade prepares to conduct aerial gunnery training at the Baumholder Military Training Area, Germany, May 8, 2018.
Ground (On and Off Duty) Although the on-duty ground Class A mishap rate remains near historic lows, fatalities have been on the rise in FY18. As of 15 May, 16 Soldiers were killed in on-duty ground mishaps, up from 12 for the same time frame last fiscal year.The majority of these fatalities occurred in four-wheeled vehicle mishaps, with speed, inattentiveness and poor judgment, and driver training the primary contributing factors. Off-duty fatalities are up about 12 percent year-to-date, driven primarily by PMV-4 mishaps but with some notable anomalies including pedestriantrain collisions, falls, kayaking accidents and a weightlifting mishap. While Army PMV trends are below national averages, speed and indiscipline remain the primary contributing factors. Approximately half of all fatal PMV mishaps to date in FY18 involved a leader at the rank of E5 or above, and leaders comprised 33 percent of all mishaps attributed to indiscipline. The summer months are historically worst for ground accidents, with spikes typically in June on duty and a steady climb off duty between May and July. Applying risk management in all activities, particularly off duty and those involving motor vehicle training and weapons/explosives handling on duty, is imperative to curtailing these trends. 18
On-duty ground risk management initiatives include Army-wide staffing of updated Army Regulation 600-55, The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program (Selection, Training, Testing, and Licensing), in June 2018; USACRC notification to brigade commanders with battalions in the bottom 50 percent of Army Readiness Assessment Program (ARAP) scores; development of U.S. Army Europe driver training videos; and integration of applied critical thinking in training courses. Off duty, the USACRC is soon releasing campaigns on water safety and distracted driving, as well as the Off Duty Safety Awareness Presentation. Conclusion Based on the USACRC’s ongoing analysis of ARAP surveys, we recommend that senior leaders continuously monitor their battalions’ ARAP scores. Current data show approximately 75 percent of the Army’s accidental fatalities occur in units scoring in the bottom 50 percent of ARAP participants. Leader focus on units scoring in that bottom half can help curb mishap rates. Readiness Through Safety! COL Christopher W. Waters is the acting commander of the Combat Readiness Center at Fort Rucker, AL, and the Acting Director of Army Safety. June 30, 2018
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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June 30, 2018
u Reserve Components Aviation Update
Army National Guard –
Sustaining an Airframe & Powerplant Capability
By COL J. Ray Davis and CPT(P) Matthew Summey
SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD PHOTO
UH-72A aircraft maintainers/soldiers from A Co (-Det 1) 2-151 Security and Support Aviation Battalion, South Carolina Army National Guard, receive airframe and powerplant instruction / techniques from Greenville Technical College Aviation Maintenance Technology instructors at their new joint use facility in Greenville, SC.
The ARNG operates 212 UH-72A aircraft assigned to six security and support aviation battalions and two training sites across 42 States, 3 Territories and the District of Columbia. The UH-72A is unique in that it is a ‘Commercial Off-The-Shelf ” procured rotary wing aircraft maintained under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The ARNG executes a HYBRID Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) program. The HYBRID CLS, unlike Full CLS, allows ARNG units to perform all Field Level (unit) maintenance in accordance with FAA regulations and original equipment manufacturer procedures utilizing FAA certified A&P licensed mechanics. Although the ARNG had FAA licensed A&Ps before the arrival of the UH-72A aircraft, implementing the HYBRID CLS was a paradigm shift from the traARMY AVIATION Magazine
ditional ARNG aviation maintenance and management programs. The ARNG FAA certified A&P mechanic is a skilled aircraft mechanic responsible for the airworthiness of UH-72A aircraft. The A&P mechanic performs, oversees and approves UH72A aircraft maintenance work to sustain aircraft airworthiness. The utilization of A&Ps part and parcel to HYBRID CLS enables the Army to operate within an open parts logistics system whereby aircraft parts are shared among Army National Guard UH-72A aircraft and equivalent type commercial helicopters. The ARNG continues to pursue options and approaches to sustain and 20
reconstitute A&P capability. Since the A&P skill set is not an Army military occupational specialty there is no traditional course that qualifies / certifies A&P soldiers. The 128th Aviation Brigade has a funded program that army aviation mechanics can enroll in to earn an A&P certification. Additionally, some States that possess a UH72A unit coordinate with local schools, technical colleges to facilitate A&P certifications for their mechanics. Other approaches are even more ambitious as is the initiative in the SCARNG. Streamlining Certification The SCARNG is on the verge of finalizing a cooperative agreement and partnership with Greenville Technical College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT). The partnership will streamline the Aviation Maintenance Technician certification (a.k.a. A&P certification for ARNG UH72A mechanics) while simultaneously providing an educational benefit for Soldiers. This certification program initiative will utilize a combination of online classes where Soldiers can satisfy the academic training requirement to prepare for the FAA written examinations, followed by 2 weeks of hands on practical training labs and FAA examination/certification in person at Greenville Technical College’s AMT School. Completion of the program results in an A&P certified mechanic for the ARNG while simultaneously providing college credit at Greenville June 30, 2018
Technical College where Soldiers can earn an Associate’s Degree in General Technology by completing an additional five online general study courses. The A&P specific course program will commence late Fiscal Year 2018. Co-Use ARNG Readiness Center The partnership with Greenville Technical College also led to the design and development of a co-use ARNG Readiness Center in Greenville, SC that houses multiple SCARNG aviation units and the Greenville Technical College AMT training program. The Readiness Center fulfills the National Guard aircraft maintenance training requirements while addressing the civilian aviation workforce demand associated with South Carolina’s growing aerospace industry. Combining the SCARNG Readiness Center with the AMT Program provides greater utilization of the facilities and thus greater value to the state of South Carolina. This program can easily be scaled to support regional National Guard training requirements and possibly nation-wide requirements in the future. To further drive A&P capability in the ARNG, the National Guard Bureau published a position description for a UH-72A aircraft mechanic that incorporates the A&P certification. The position description is a vehicle for States to hire full-time personnel many of which are assigned to aviation facilities with UH-72A aircraft. Retaining A&P mechanics in the ARNG remains a challenge. However, the ARNG will continue to use established A&P programs and build upon developing initiatives to successfully meet this enduring aircraft maintenance need. It may necessitate further assessment in funding strategies within the ARNG to adequately support the programs over time thus ensuring a requisite A&P capability exists where UH-72A aircraft operate. Fly Guard.
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COL J. Ray Davis is the chief of the Army National Guard Aviation and Safety Division located in Arlington, VA; and CPT (P) Matthew Summey is the commander of Company A, 2-151 Security and Support Aviation Battalion, South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG). ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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June 30, 2018
u 128th Aviation Brigade Update This issue I have asked SSG Cox to present details on the integration of composite materials into our aircraft and our training program. “Above the Best!” COL Zampelli, Commander
Soaring With Advanced Composites By SSG Cody Cox
F
U.S. ARMY PHOTO COURTESY C/1-210TH AVN REGT.
iberglass is the most commonly used composite material and has been utilized by the boat and automobile industries since the 1950s.
Over the years, extraordinary advancements in composites have shifted the focus from fiberglass to advanced composites. Advanced composites are widely used in the aircraft industry today and have allowed engineers to make drastic improvements in aircraft performance. As with all change, this paradigm shift has advantages and disadvantages that significantly affect Army Aviation.
MOS 15G Structural Repairer Course students conducting a tap test for inspection on a main rotor blade.
er disadvantage is the potential joint failure that could result when advanced composites and metal components are joined together. Metals will expand and contract with temperature changes while advanced composites remain unchanged.
Advantages The greatest advantage of using advanced composites is making aircraft lightweight. Weight reduction means better fuel economy and reduced flight-hour costs. Advanced composites also increase the strength-to-weight ratio that is fundamental in the fabrication of aircraft. The strength-to-weight ratio of advanced composite materials is upwards of ten times higher than other materials made of different metals. Additionally, advanced composites’ ability to resist corrosion is unparalleled, hence its popularity in the marine industry. The accumulation of moisture in hidden areas of the aircraft is no longer a concern to engineers. Flexibility is another advantage to advanced composites. Designers have the ability to mold composites into complicated shapes easier than most raw materials and metal alloys. Unlike metal alloys, advanced composites are not as prone to fatigue and crack growth. Where flexibility is a concern, advanced composite designs last longer than other aircraft materials. Lastly, advanced composite structures require fewer parts than metal structures. Integrated composite structures can replace other structures that require multiple components. This reduction in the number of parts reduces overall cost. As a result, the use of advanced composites continues to increase in the Aviation enterprise.
New Inspection Methods Despite its disadvantages, advanced composites are increasing in demand. This increase in demand for advanced composites in primary structures also increases the requirement for adequate damage assessment and inspection methods. Newer methods of inspection include advanced non-destructive inspection techniques, advanced structural imaging, laser technology, and thermal wave imaging. These developments supplement the current methods taught at the 128th Aviation Brigade and enable the increased fielding of advanced composites to meet demand. Additional structural repair and inspection training are available at the Prototype Integration Facility (PIF) in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama as well as Abaris Training Resources, Inc. in Georgia and Nevada. Through proper education and training, repair and inspection methods overcome even the largest disadvantages. In conclusion, the advantages of advanced composites outweigh the disadvantages. In a constantly evolving aviation force, advanced composites are increasingly incorporated into combat aircraft in all branches of the Armed Forces. With new materials and inspections comes new training, so instructors at the 128th Aviation Brigade train and prepare students with the latest approved methods. As technology yields further accurate techniques, they will eventually find their way into the lesson plans taught at the 128th Aviation Brigade, ultimately affecting the entire Army Aviation community. As the premier aviation force across the globe, implementation of composite advancements into our Army Aviation assets is paramount as we continue to soar above the best!
Risks and Disadvantages However, the greatest disadvantage to advanced composites is its unique response to impact. Unlike impact on surfaces made of other materials that leave visible signs of damage, impact on advanced composite surfaces may not display any signs. This unique dilemma now increases the difficulty for structural repairers to determine if the interior structure is damaged. Consequently, structural repairers and inspectors require additional training to properly perform and inspect advanced composite repairs. Advanced composites require proper stacking sequences that must be done in sequential steps that require an inspection before advancing on the repair. AnothARMY AVIATION Magazine
SSG Cody Cox is an instructor in Company C, 2nd Bn., 210th Avn. Regt. at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA; his platoon is responsible for all Aircraft Structural Repairer (15G) enlisted training. 22
June 30, 2018
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June 30, 2018
OUR MISSION IS TO MAKE SURE THE WARFIGHTER CAN DO THEIRS
u Tech Talk
The Improved Black Hawk Tail Rotor By Mr. Kevin Reeves
I
Your approach vector is constrained by the LZ and the prevailing winds are from your right aft quarter. Pulling more collective, you notice the pedal now is against the stop, the aircraft starts to yaw, and a decision is made to abort the landing until you can burn off more fuel. This is what occurs with insufficient tail rotor margin that can affect missions at high hot altitudes. With the new and more powerful Black Hawk engines, such as the YT706 and the future Improved Turbine Engine (ITE) that will significantly increase high and hot performance, the aerodynamic limitations of the legacy tail rotor design are becoming more apparent with increased aircraft GW and more ARMY AVIATION Magazine
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY SGT STEVEN E. LOPEZ, 40TH PUBLIC AFFAIRS DET.
t is 0300 and you are flying low as you approach a mountain landing zone (LZ) to infil a small recon team. Your Black Hawk is operating at high gross weight (GW) and the summer environmental conditions are challenging at these high altitudes. operations at high density altitude (DA). Several engineering solutions to the real world issue of insufficient tail rotor (TR) authority are possible, one of the more promising is increasing the TR efficiency. Sikorsky, A Lockheed Martin Company, has proposed an Improved Black Hawk Tail Rotor (IBTR) design for Army H-60 helicopters that has the potential to improve the TR performance with the S‐76D airfoil integrated onto the existing spar of the UH‐60M tail rotor. The IBTR profile is a combination of the existing Black Hawk TR airfoil and additional advanced airfoil shapes. In addition to the new airfoil shapes, the IBTR provides more blade surface area through an increase in the chord from 24
approximately mid span to the tip. Sikorsky worked with the Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center’s (AMRDEC) Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (AATD) on a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) for this new design concept. The Technology Applications Programs Office (TAPO) offered an instrumented MH60M aircraft to conduct IBTR flight testing at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. The Aviation Flight Test Directorate (AFTD) of the Redstone Test Center (RTC) provided experimental test pilots, (XPs), and flight test engineers, while Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMC) provided flight test planning and mainJune 30, 2018
tenance support. AED served as the airworthiness authority throughout the test program to develop flight testing requirements, review engineering data submittals, and authorize the flight test airworthiness release (AWR) which was for the limited research and development program only and not full qualification of the IBTR. AED reviewed engineering data and participated in weekly technical interchange meetings (TIMs) in preparation for flight testing. All technical data supported a limited experimental flight test AWR. The flight testing started in August 2017 and consisted of aircraft instrumentation checkouts, tail rotor rigging, IBTR ground balance and instrumentation checkout, and maintenance test flight. The IBTR testing progressed to include flight envelope clearance within the MH-60M envelope, low speed flight handling qualities, tethered hover, and finally concluded in November 2017. The AED and TAPO are currently assessing the flight test report. The tail rotor rigging angle with IBTR would benefit from further refinement to optimize tail rotor effectiveness. No structural concerns or anomalies associated with use of the IBTR on the MH-60M were observed with the exception of the
TR drive shaft which approached the conservative flight test Do Not Exceed (DNE) limits with some maneuvers. The general impression of the IBTR was positive but validation will require IBTR flight testing in High, Hot, and Heavy conditions such as Leadville or Alamosa, Colorado in the summer at max operational GW. The IBTR has the potential to benefit all H-60 aircraft since many Army Aviation missions call for operations at higher altitudes, hotter conditions and configurations approaching max GW. The path ahead is to continue reviewing the test report to assess if the IBTR should initiate a full qualification program. The Program Management Office (PMO), with AED engineering support will assess whether to embark on a larger scale full qualification program with the goal of fielding the IBTR.
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Mr. Kevin Reeves provides airworthiness and technical engineering support for the MH-60 Program as an aerospace/ systems engineer in the Aviation Engineering Directorate’s Special Operations Aviation Division (SOAD) of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center at Redstone Arsenal, AL.
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June 30, 2018
u Ask the Flight Surgeon
Allergies Q:
By CPT Gurdeep Buttar, M.D.
I’m a 26 year old pilot, who just moved to Ft. Rucker, Alabama for specialized training. I’ve always had seasonal allergies, but this year has been the worst. I have a runny nose, nasal congestion, and a nagging cough. I think I need something stronger than over-the-counter medications, but I am concerned that prescription medications may make me drowsy in the cockpit. What options do I have to treat my allergies, but still be safe flying? FS: Seasonal allergies are a very common health concern whose symptoms present when your immune system overreacts to an outdoor substance that your body is sensitized to (an “allergen”), such as pollen. Symptoms of seasonal allergies can be numerous, including itchy, watery eyes, fullness in the ears, sneezing, as well the concerns you described. In fact, your runny nose, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), is estimated to affect 15-30% of Americans in any given year. SAR can lead to sleepless nights, decreased concentration and unproductive or missed time at work and in the cockpit. Though numerous over the counter medications are available to help reduce the symptoms of SAR, not all of these medications are safe for use in flight or interact well with other medications you may be taking or other health concerns you may have. The presence of SAR shows a strong interconnection with a form of eczema called atopic dermatitis as well as overgrowth of the lining of your nasal cavity known as nasal polyps. SAR is also strongly associated with asthma. In fact, the majority of patients with asthma present with symptoms of SAR or perennial allergic rhinitis. SAR is a global health issue with considerable economic and societal burdens to the sufferer. It is estimated that people with SAR see their health care provider 1.8 times more often than people that do not have the condition and use twice as much medication. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
When individuals are exposed to an allergen, SAR symptoms can present within minutes. Diagnosis of SAR is often made in the primary care clinic. However, diagnosis is not always straightforward as SAR symptoms can be very much like symptoms of other common problems. So, your medical provider will be careful during the examination to help rule out other causes such as non-allergic rhinitis and viral infections such as the common cold. When talking to your provider, also make sure to describe your work, home, and hobby environments. The use of a new product at work, the adoption of a pet, or the start of a home improvement project may be affecting your symptoms and could change how your health concerns are managed. The type of treatment prescribed for SAR is based on the nature of the symptoms. Seasonal, episodic, or mild symptoms may be relieved with oral or nasal anti-histamines combined with a short acting decongestant. Mild symptoms may also be helped with simple, daily nasal saline rinses that flush out the sinuses. Moderate symptoms may require additional medications like intranasal steroids, anti-histamine eye drops, or medications that improve breathing. Severe allergies may require allergen immunotherapy that consists of a series of allergy shots meant to buildup tolerance to allergens and reduce the extent of the symptoms. Be sure to coordinate all care with your 26
aeromedical provider as therapies like immunotherapy injections require temporary grounding periods to monitor for unwanted reactions. If a trial with standard therapies is ineffective, a more specific diagnosis may be determined by an Allergy/Immunology specialist to better direct therapy. In this instance, allergen-specific skin testing and/or blood tests may be indicated. Skin testing uses small amounts of suspected allergens that are gently placed under the skin’s surface. Skin tests generally produce rapid results while blood tests that look for allergen-specific antibodies may take several days to process. Untreated SAR can be hazardous inflight. SAR can produce swelling and obstruction of the soft tissues of the nasal passages and throat leading to an increase risk of sinus and ear blocks at altitude. Furthermore, over-the-counter allergy treatments, even antihistamines labeled as “non-sedating,” can cause various levels of drowsiness and some nasal sprays can worsen symptoms if used improperly. Of the over-the-counter anti-histamines, only fexofenadine and loratadine may be waived if used on a long-term basis (30+ days per year). Therapy requiring oral steroids, immunotherapy, or sinus surgery may require a waiver to continue flying. Standard therapy for mild to moderate symptoms does not prohibit pilots from flying, but you should always consult with your aeromedical provider. If you are experiencing SAR symptoms, do not hesitate to get evaluated as there are many options to lessen or even eliminate your symptoms and keep you flying. Fly safe! Question? If you have a question you would like addressed, email it to
[email protected]. We will try to address it in the future. See your unit flight surgeon for your personal health issues. The views and opinions offered are those of the author and researchers and should not be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless otherwise stated. CPT (Dr.) Gurdeep Buttar is a flight surgeon at the School of Army Aviation Medicine, Fort Rucker, AL. June 30, 2018
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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June 30, 2018
Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation
Bridging the Aviation Education Gap
ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
By MAJ Sean Karrels and CW4 Brett McFarland
I
n the June 2017 issue of ARMY AVIATION Magazine, COL Phil Ryan, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment commander, and the Regiment command group discussed how the 160th operates on the edge of the operational spectrum at the highest of operational tempos, while simultaneously innovating new ideas, exploring new technology and sharing our experiences and investments with the rest of Army Aviation. As Night Stalkers, we consistently assess our strengths and weaknesses, measure potential and capability gaps against our adversaries. Thirty-six years ago, innovative and audacious Night Stalkers set out to “own the night” by pioneering superior technology, training and tactics. During the better part of our focus on asymmetric operations in a sustained fight, peer and near-peer adversaries have had many opportunities to study America’s military tactics and close technological gaps that have seen comparative advantages dissipate. As a joint force, ARMY AVIATION Magazine
we can no longer expect to rely on air superiority or operating unimpeded under the veil of night.
How Do We Get There
Purposeful, tactical employment of slow, loud and lumbering helicopters into a layered integrated air defense network demands a laser focused group of experts capable of peeling back those layers to expose inherent adversary weaknesses in concert with tactically sound mission execution. We harnessed our collective talents to determine how to get after the shortfalls in preparing forces to plan and operate comfortably in a multi-domain battle (MDB). We are focusing specifically on capabilities to overcome anti-access and area denial (A2AD) through the employment of special operations forces (SOF) peculiar platforms and tactics to provide maximum flexibility in achieving command objectives. Two key SOF truths, our guiding principles, provide focus and a foundation that encapsulate these efforts. 28
Tactical Approach – The diagram graphically
depicts an offensive minded approach in a multidomain battle. By pushing electronic attack (EA) capabilities, which are currently performed by several joint assets, down to the organic tactical level, exponential increases in effectiveness can be achieved. Leading Change – CW4 Brett McFarland, 160th SOAR Mission Survivability Officer briefs the 160th and U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Command Chief Warrant Officers, 160th senior leaders, and senior members of ASDAT and DES on the proposed ARSOA tactics program during Block II of the FY17 Special Operations Aviation Advanced Tactics Training and Education Concept Event.
First, “Competent Special Operations Forces cannot be created after emergencies occur.” The time for truly developing these forward-looking aviation skills is not in reaction to, but rather, as part of proactive change where anticipation of complex battlefields is met with equally complex preparation through advancements in education and trainJune 30, 2018
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ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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June 30, 2018 FLIR Talon MMS
The Special Operations Aviation Mission Survivability Team
ing. Second, the truth with the most impact in the future of MDB, “Most special operations require non-SOF assistance” and nobody knows this better than Army Aviation. Consistently over the last decade, we collaborated supporting a multitude of combat operations in the joint battle space. These efforts will continue to grow as we transition to more challenging operating environments.
Aviation Education Gap
Currently there is little to no synthesis between the electronic warfare, intelligence and aviation education apparatus. Formal education that teaches the unique planning processes of Army Aviation within the electronic warfare and intelligence disciplines does not exist. To maintain our tactical advantage we must capitalize on the skill set
of each of these mission enablers to achieve success. The first step occurs during detailed mission planning where the fusion of electronic warfare and threat assessment subject matter experts seamlessly blend with aviation mission planners and joint enablers to mitigate mission risk to the lowest level. Finally, well-trained aircrews execute cumulative internal flight tasks nested
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June 30, 2018
with joint force support to accomplish this graduate-level mission with the utmost competence.
If We Build It…They Will Come
Building the house to support a brick and mortar school dedicated to modern advanced tactics training and education is paramount. This requires full-motion simulation and subsequent high fidelity electronic combat training venues for graduatelevel exercises to validate, refine, standardize and sustain tactics, techniques and procedures. The stated objective currently does not exist in our formation and would be an Army Special Operations Aviation (ARSOA) established program akin to blending the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor course (WTI) and the Air Force Weapons School. The mission of the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) is to provide standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications that support Marine Aviation training and readiness and to provide assistance in the development
and employment of aviation weapons and tactics. The Marines accomplish this mission through the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. The U.S. Air Force Weapons School trains tactical experts and leaders to control and exploit air, space and cyber on behalf of the joint force. Upon graduation, the new weapons officers return to the field to serve as unit weapons and tactics officers, leading combat missions, and providing our Service’s senior leaders and decision makers tactical, operational and strategic impact support. The benefits provide immediate impacts to SOF and a feedback loop into the broader Army Aviation Enterprise, not unlike the pioneers of night vision tactics and innovation.
ARSOA tactics program is looking to bridge. The mastery of problem solving and highly specialized technical skills requires establishing aviation education that is commensurate with the mission for success in the future operating environment. For ARSOA, this will save lives and hardware where freedom of maneuver is not a guarantee against a highly motivated and capable adversary. For the Army Aviation enterprise, this will provide a venue to teach, coach and mentor our junior aviators on the complexity of sound tactical planning promulgating the entire community. This is the very definition of the 160th’s unique capability to lead change; change with a purpose.
Meeting Critical Demands
MAJ Sean Karrels and CW4 Brett McFarland are the S3 and Aviation Mission Survivability Officer for the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) headquartered at Fort Campbell, KY.
“Evolutionary processes lead to revolutionary impacts,” said Gen. Robert B. Brown, commanding general, U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC). The current gap in A2AD planning and execution between aircrews, mission commanders and joint partners to affect positive outcomes is what the
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June 30, 2018
Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation
ALSE:
A Special Operations Aviation Perspective
ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
By CW5 Eli Mayers
W
e live in a day and age where advances in aviation technology come so fast that it’s hard to keep up. From state-of-the-art flight control systems, efficient and powerful engines, to advances in communication and navigation, the landscape of Army Aviation is ever evolving in complexity and capability. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) (SOAR(A)) is always at the forefront of these endeavors, attempting to create the most lethal and efficient flying machines possible. Over the past three years, the 160th Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) Office, in conjunction with the Systems Integration Management Office (SIMO) has been working tirelessly to apply the same approach to the individual flight crew member’s ALSE ensemble. After much research and many conversations across the 160th enterprise, it was concluded that the biggest issue with current ALSE involves bulk, weight, clutter and reduced mobility in the cockpit. Furthermore, the Regiment maintained outdated legacy survival and medical equipment. Our efforts resulted in a modernized individual ALSE suite that has streamlined survival and medical equipment as well as providing a lighter, more functional flight vest. Let’s take a
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Left: Pictured is the new Aviation Ballistic Armor Vest (ABAV) demonstrated in standard land configuration with no modular crew-chief chest harness. Right: This configuration of the Aviation Ballistic Armor Vest demonstrates the over-water set-up with modular underarm flotation and modular crewchief chest harness.
look at a few of the advances made and some of the gaps we still hope to address in the future.
ABAV
The greatest single advancement the Regiment made is the implementation of a new Aviation Ballistic Armor Vest (ABAV). The ABAV contract was awarded in February 2018 and fielding should begin during the summer of 2018. The ABAV is built around a basic plate carrier concept with enough adaptability to tailor the minimum survival, medical and tactical equipment for each individual air crew member. This design reduces bulk and allows much greater cockpit and cabin mobility than previous vests used by the Regiment. The ABAV also uses a new vest closure method, removing the 32
June 30, 2018
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June 30, 2018
of being configured to hold the minimum equipment required for flight by 160th pilots and crew chiefs. There is also an additional modular chest strap that can be integrated into the vest for crew chief retention, fall prevention and extraction operations. The vest is designed to hold a new swimmer-cut, standalone, ballistic plate. This plate removes the need for soft armor while providing more arm and shoulder mobility. Finally, the LPU-34 low profile flotation collar is removed and replaced with a modular under-arm tactical flotation system that can easily be installed or removed in less than one minute. This allows for better head mobility in the cockpit as well as increased swimming capability in a ditching scenario The ABAV has been well received by the pilots and non-rated crew members as they anxiously await a full fielding across the Regiment.
Redesigned Medical Kit
The Individual First Aid Kit has been redesigned with vacuum-sealed components.
The next improvement to ALSE came in the form of a redesigned medical kit. The tropical survival kit has been traditionally used as the individual medical kit/survival kit for aviation operations. This kit was filled with general first aid items, but provided very little capability for trauma related medical care. Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) items were regularly used to fill in the gaps for situations such as major bleeding and obstructed airways, but the kit was too bulky to be carried as issued. The new individual medical kit is fully equipped with trauma related supplies. It is also vacuum sealed to reduce exposure to environmental conditions and decrease the risk of damaging the individual items through day-to-day operations.
traditional bulky hook and pile cummerbund and replacing it with a simple tubular fastener system. The extraction capability of the ABAV is accomplished using a simple belt system. Since all the hoist equipped aircraft in the Regiment have self-contained extraction capabilities, the belt system is provided as a backup extraction system. By designing this extraction capability into a belt, the traditional bulk associated with a vest integrated extraction harness has been eliminated. The belt also has the capability 2017_ArmyAviation_June_YUL.pdf 1 5/11/2017 10:12:02 AM
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The kit‘s contents were chosen to compliment the aircraft first aid trauma kits which the Regiment led the Army in fielding five years ago. A smaller individual kit with greater capability has been a huge win for the Regiment. Significant improvements have also been made to individual survival items. A redesigned, self-contained survival kit is now issued to each crew member. It consists of two vacuum sealed modules. One contains all of the expiration items while the other one holds the non-expirable items. When the expirable items are no longer usable, that part of the kit is replaced with a new vacuum sealed expiration module, while the non-expiration module remains intact. This has dramatically cut down the time that ALSE technicians need to complete semi-annual flight gear inspections. The contents still meet the minimum required item list for individual crew, but also cover the minimum survival kit requirement for U.S. Army Special Operations Command Supplement to Army Regulation 95-1. The overall bulk of the kit has been reduced in size by using as many modernized, micro survival items as possible, and can easily be stored on the utility belt. By creating a way for the survival and medical kit to be stored on a belt, it opens up many more options for individual tailoring of the vest for communications and war-fighting items such as ammunition and weapon storage. Any additional survival needs are accomplished through an additional survival kit available for issue from ALSE shops.
Redefining ALSE
The ABAV and improved survival/ medical kits have begun the process of redefining ALSE in the ever evolving spectrum of Army Aviation. The products currently being implemented have also simplified the entire ALSE suite and helped the Regiment achieve its desired goal of improving comfort and performance for crew members during primary flight duties. This also includes improvements for most of the capabilities related to medical and survival contingencies. As money, technology and resources become available, the Regiment hopes to pursue initiatives in other areas that need to be addressed. We hope to someday lead the way in developing a modernized, state of the art, lightARMY AVIATION Magazine
weight flight helmet with removable communications equipment, better head mobility, a more customizable fit and ballistic protection. We also hope to improve cold weather protection for crew members and develop a more versatile and ruggedized flight uniform. These initiatives are likely many years away, but the more we can identify the capability gaps and work towards those goals, the better the product. We also hope to continue sharing information with product developers across Army Aviation as well as other Service Components. Our goal is to lead the way in
improvements that can eventually help all pilots, non-rated crew members, and flight medics do their job more effectively and efficiently while helping them remain healthy, functional, mobile, and combat effective for their entire military careers. CW5 Eli Mayers is assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) at Fort Campbell, KY.
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Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation
Risk to Development: Achieving Sustained
Mission Readiness and Organizational Health
160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment Photo
By MAJ Scott Gale and CW4 Thad King
R
isk is inherent in all Army Aviation activities and as such requires leadership to effectively mitigate and leverage to our advantage. Within Army doctrine we find the term, “risk management” defined as “the process of identifying, assessing and controlling risks arising from operational factors and making decisions that balance risk cost with mission benefits.” Notice that within this definition the focus is “operational factors” and making risk decisions that result in “mission benefits.” We all want mission benefits; however, focusing on mission benefits alone will not sustain a unit’s combat readiness – we must incorporate the human dimension of development into the risk equation or our mission success rate will be short lived. Often, risk discussions and decisions are centered on risk to force and risk to mission. Risk to force refers to the physical safety of our team members while risk to mission addresses the obstacles that impede mission accomplishment. These risk components, while ARMY AVIATION Magazine
vital, are focused on the here and now – the short game. Risk to force and risk to mission fail to address a third critical component that, if neglected, can have long term negative implications for our units – the risk to development. Risk to development addresses the risk we incur when failing to provide meaningful development opportunities that prepare individuals and teams for future success – the long game. Incorporating risk to development into the risk to force/risk to mission framework helps us leverage opportunities for individual growth inherent in every tasking, mission, and operation. It is completely feasible, perhaps common, for leaders to make risk decisions that keep our force safe and ensure mission success yet are detrimental to developing Soldiers and counter to cultivating a culture of disciplined initiative. When we make risk decisions that fail to contribute to individual growth, we are setting ourselves up for future failure (future risk to force / risk to mission). 36
An MH-47G from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) returns from a mission.
Focusing on Long Term Success
Many have witnessed this cyclical phenomenon – a very competent unit with a great track record of safety and mission success turns into a poor performing unit following the departure of a few key leaders and performers. What happened? The relatively few talented individuals were able to mitigate short term risk through experience, aptitude, and presence; however, these same talented individuals, very adept at short term mission success, were inept at developing individuals and teams for long term success. When individual and team development is relegated to the principle of osmosis and not deliberately actioned, future organizational health and readiness decline. June 30, 2018
Risk, like most elements of leadership, must be balanced. On the conservative end of the risk spectrum is risk aversion – the avoidance of doing anything with an associated risk resulting in paralysis. On the aggressive end of the spectrum is risk apathy – being careless and neglecting the risk mitigation process altogether resulting in chaos. In between risk aversion and risk apathy lays a sweet spot of risk optimization where we maximize our capacity for success. The principle of risk balance applies equally to risk to force, risk to mission, and risk to development (Figure 1). Risk alignment is the art of aligning risk to development with risk to force in order to accomplish current and future missions. In cases such as combat or real world contingency operations, we choose to optimize risk to force at the expense of risk to development by selecting our absolute best performers – there is a time and place where this necessary. But in training, this approach is unsustainable. While keeping risk to force within acceptable levels we must focus on maximizing development. When bringing the risk to development into alignment with risk to force, risk to force will increase; nevertheless, this can be managed with proper leadership and oversight. Think of a new pilot in command or phase team leader – is there not additional risk when we trust and empower these individuals to a new position? Yes, but, we gain future experience and competence that will sustain mission readiness and organizational health (Figure 2).
Normalizing Risk to Development
pline within Army Aviation (maintenance, flight operations, unmanned systems, etc.) may require slightly different adaptation, there are two guiding questions that will help get us started: 1. Who are we developing with this task, mission, or operation? 2. Where can we accept prudent failure to aid in the developmental process? Who are we developing with this task? During mission analysis this question should be at the forefront of our thought process. Individual development is the cornerstone of a healthy organization and vital to career progression. Development leads to competence which leads to excellence which often results in job satisfaction. The level of individual job satisfaction, when aggregated into the organization, effects unit cohesion and morale. Cohesion and morale, like JP-8 in an aircraft, can be the fuel that propels unit growth and innovation or alternatively fuels the fire of discontent, apathy, and bitterness. Once low morale strikes, organizational health and readiness decline and future risk to force / risk to mission increase. Where can we accept prudent failure to aid in the developmental process? If failure is one of the greatest teachers but we operate in a no fail environment, where does that leave us? We must be willing to take chances on our junior, less experienced Soldiers
ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
How do we incorporate and normalize risk to development into our daily battle rhythm? Although each disci-
Figure 1.
Mitigation
Risk to development like risk to force and risk to mission requires mitigation. As we provide growth and development opportunities we must identify and assess hazards, develop and implement controls, and most importantly supervise, evaluate, and provide feedback. One way to do this is to assign an advisor to oversee the Soldier being developed. This advisor or coach can help the Soldier make course corrections and provide meaningful feedback, while still allowing for autonomy in executing the task. Leaders at all levels have the opportunity and responsibility to develop individuals and make judicious risk decisions that will keep our units operating at the optimal level now and in the future. Incorporating risk to development into our risk calculus ensures we are challenging, empowering, and providing real growth opportunities for all team members. As we balance risk to development with risk to force and risk to mission we create sustained readiness and organizational health which will ensure future mission success. MAJ Scott Gale is the executive officer and CW4 Thad King is an assistant operations officer for the 3rd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) at Hunter Army Airfield, GA.
Figure 2. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
and place them in uncomfortable and challenging situations. COL (Ret) Lloyd J. Matthews articulated this issue in the context of leader control: “Over-control is often a reflex of the commander’s own career insecurity . . . the leader insecure about his career is preoccupied with avoiding failure. Thus he feels he cannot hazard empowering subordinates even if he were otherwise inclined to do so.” Prudent risk allows for failures without compromising risk to force. Look for opportunities where prudent failure is acceptable and allow Soldiers to grow from the experience.
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June 30, 2018
Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation FARP Team Support to Special Operations Aviation
By CPT Ryan G. Brown
I
routinely performs FARP operations in austere locations supported by only a small security element. In addition to FARP cross training, ASD training includes responding to contingencies in order to support themselves in remote areas. Since the FARP team contains minimum force personnel, each team member undergoes robust training and validation to ensure mission success.
Flexibility
Training
With aircraft geographically dispersed across numerous training and combat locations simultaneously, the ASD’s low-density military occupational specialties (MOS) cannot always meet the high demand. These MOSs comprise ASD’s three distinct but interconnected sections: ammunition support; petroleum support; and aerial delivery support. These Soldiers routinely cross train to perform multiple duties. Much of this cross training revolves around the “FARP Team” concept. A full team typically accompanies an airdrop infiltration of FARP assets, providing a range of capabilities including refueling and rearming. In reality, FARP team elements support multiple helicopter assault forces (HAFs) simultaneously. Therefore, each node is significantly smaller than a full team, but still ARMY AVIATION Magazine
ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
n order to deliver the nation’s most elite Special Operations Forces (SOF) to the target, Army Special Operations Aviation (ARSOA) flight leads and mission planners maintain a precise balance between fuel, power and cargo. Every precious pound of fuel adds time on station, but also takes a pound away from the ground force, making fuel a significant mission planning factor. Fuel can also be a significant mission limiting factor in austere, immature or downsizing theaters of operation where ARSOA assets depend on external resources such as Helicopter Air-to-Air Refueling (HAAR) or a Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP). Every line battalion within the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne)(SOAR(A)) also contains an organic and robust airborne service detachment (ASD). The ASD supports the customer by seamlessly integrating the ability to refuel and rearm into the mission. This article outlines how the detachment trains and operates to provide maximum flexibility and expediency to the flight companies and ultimately to the supported ground force.
4-160th SOAR Soldiers conduct FARP team training and evaluation at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA.
Training for FARP team members begins at the individual level. In addition to MOS-specific training; Enlisted Green Platoon (EGP); Basic Airborne School; and Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) school comprise the minimum “pipeline” requirements. Soldiers then receive additional academic and hands-on training at the unit level, completing their basic mission qualified (BMQ) FARP team member training. Progression training then continues with academics, weapons ranges and Army Warrior Task (AWT) training followed by various mission profiles under day, night, night vision goggle (NVG), and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE) environments. Key training events include: preparing and rigging equipment into 38
expendable airdrop platforms; conducting multi-point FARP layouts within the prescribed time standard; inspecting, servicing, and placing FARP equipment into operational status; and airborne operations (personnel and equipment) with follow-on movement to and establishment of the FARP site. These collective training exercises provide further realism through integration with organic aircraft, Air Force assets for airborne and wet-wing operations, and conventional aviation assets to ensure team members can also refuel AH-64s and other non-organic 160th aircraft. Once a FARP BMQ shows mastery of all key tasks during a full mission profile (FMP) training exercise, they progress to fully mission qualified (FMQ) and can serve as FARP officers and noncommissioned officers in charge in combat. Ultimately, the entire training program focuses on ensuring that the FARP team enables aircraft to accomplish the mission and meet the commander’s intent. FARP training isn’t limited to ASD personnel. In some cases maintenance personnel cross train to augment larger FARPs. A recent success story involved a maintenance company platoon sergeant with no prior experience in refuel operations who participated in a FARP June 30, 2018
A mobile forward arming and refueling point is recovered after aerial delivery by soldiers from 4-160th SOAR.
A Soldier assigned to 4-160th SOAR loads a modified vehicle onto an MH-47G Chinook helicopter.
FMP exercise at Joint Base LewisMcChord, Washington. A month after that event, while serving as a senior enlisted advisor in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility, he found himself in a situation where aircraft needed immediate unplanned refuel support while the sole petroleum support NCO was unavailable. His cross training enabled him to confidently refuel the aircraft and make mission; a simple but far-reaching testament to the importance of adaptive leadership in today’s resource constrained operating environment.
CLAW in 1980, the unit continues to integrate FARP operations with a range of capabilities for the Ground Force and Air Mission Commanders. The tradition was further solidified by Operation JUST CAUSE in 1989 when 160th FARP teams conducted an airborne assault and airfield seizure in Panama, responded to numerous contingencies, and supported the daring raid with a range of air and ground based capabilities. Today, FARP integration continues to enable the unique mission sets that are the cornerstone of SOA. Ultimately, well-trained ASD personnel coupled with advanced TTPs and technologies share a common goal of providing increased expediency and flexibility. They also withstand a high level of scrutiny and evaluation. Their training represents one of the focal points of the Mission Essential Task List. Night after night, FARP teams prove their determination, capability and pride in mission as they support Special Operations missions in a variety of challenging environments.
Expediency
In order to facilitate the ARSOA standard of “time-on-target, plus or minus 30 seconds,” support elements must not only provide the fuel and ammunition, but provide it at the right time and the right place, every time. In addition to individual and collective FARP team training, ASD and headquarters elements also focus on longterm tactics, techniques and procedures (TTP) development with the primary goal of providing services as expediently as possible. Development of various mobile and scalable FARP platforms truly highlights the synergy of the ASD and motor pool sections. The mobile FARP uses a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) John Deere Gator modified by motor pool mechanics with upgraded tires, suspension, rims, framing and lighting. It contains a fully functional ARMY AVIATION Magazine
multi-point FARP capable of operating in a rugged environment and rapidly relocating to meet mission requirements. The 160th SOAR implemented this capability and deployed it for continuous use in combat and contingency operations. Other emerging equipment sets offer adaptability and additional capability by being lighter, more expeditionary, field-expendable or providing higher flow rates. The aerial delivery or “rigger” section of ASD has its own unique role in sustaining the airborne training program and innovating aerial delivery methods for adding flexibility and expediency. These methods include TTP development, such as improved rigging configurations, modifying the number of paratrooper passes, or managing the drop zone to facilitate expedient movement to the rally point and recovery of the FARP platform. Other innovations include new equipment fielding (team internal communication devices, personnel and equipment global positioning system trackers, and other marking systems for airdrop bundles) and new aerial delivery methods such as the Joint Precision Airdrop System ( JPADS), which uses GPS-steerable parachutes to deliver the FARP equipment to a pre-determined point of impact (PI).
Integration
Since the 160th SOAR’s inception after lessons learned from a failed FARP attempt during Operation EAGLE 39
CPT Ryan G. Brown is the commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) (SOAR(A)) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA. June 30, 2018
Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion:
Beyond Special Operations Training ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
By LTC Brian E. Supko and MAJ Phillip T. Vaughn
I
t’s an early Saturday morning in October at Fort Bliss, Texas, and Soldiers anxiously file into a classroom at the edge of an indoor pool. The instructors, already in their wetsuits, are inspecting equipment and ensuring all participants are ready to complete safe aquatic training in preparation for their upcoming humanitarian relief mission supporting Puerto Rico, recently devastated by hurricanes Irma and Maria. Just 24 hours prior, these instructors and their equipment were over 1,300 miles away, shutting down operations and buttoning-up their facility for the weekend; a single phone call changed all of that. The trainers, from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, arrived Friday afternoon on a C-27J Spartan fixed wing aircraft, assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command Flight Company (UFC), Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion (SOATB). Given just 18 hours notice of the need to rapidly deploy instructors and training aids, the entire team from the Allison Aquatics Training Facility sprang into action. The mission was an immediate need for quality and responsive training to ensure safety of Soldiers soon to perform overwater missions in vicinity of Puerto Rico. With other overwater training facilities simply unable to support such a short notice request, the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) answered the
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call, tasking SOATB to send aquatic survival experts to Fort Bliss in order to train over 70 personnel in a single day.
Background
SOATB is the aviation training proponent under the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, providing 33 programs of instruction (POIs) listed in the Army Training Requirements and Resource System (ATRRS), ranging from aircraft qualification courses (AQC), aviation life support equipment (ALSE) technician, to combat skills. Originally established to prepare and train Soldiers for their assignment to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), “Night Stalkers,” over the years SOATB’s portfolio expanded to fill ever increasing requirements across the Department of Defense and SOF landscape; training aviators, Special Forces Soldiers, conventional army units and foreign military partners in a wide range of POIs. Originally called “Green Platoon,” ad hoc training functions began in 1985. In 1988, the unit officially formed to centralize and standardize recruiting, assessment and training. The Special Operations Aviation Training Company (SOATC) was provisionally designated in 1992, and in 2010 officially re-designated as SOATB. This battalion averages 235 training days per 40
Soldiers assigned to the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, conduct advanced weapons training under the supervision of SOATB cadre at Ft. Campbell, KY. SOATB personnel prepare the Shallow Water Egress Trainer (SWET) chair for a student during dunker qualification at Ft. Campbell, KY. CSM Reginald Thomas (right), 101st CAB command sergeant major, conducts noncommissioned officer professional development with members of his team under the supervision of SOATB cadre at Ft. Campbell, KY.
year which produces (on average) over 100 officer graduates and 350 enlisted graduates, while executing over 10,500 annual flight hours with 48 aircraft, comprised of seven different mission, design and series (MDS) airframes (A/ MH-6, MH-60M, UH-60L, MH47G, CASA 212, C-12 & C-27J). Throughout that Saturday in October, three incredibly mission focused instructors trained more than 70 1st Armor Division Combat Aviation Brigade Soldiers, to not only be comfortable in the water, but to also calmly handle their Emergency Breathing Device (EBD), and exit the Shallow Water Egress Trainer (SWET) with confidence, all in preparation for surviving a possible crash sequence or emergency landing in the water. The following morning, June 30, 2018
this team of quiet professionals packed up their equipment, boarded the C-27J and returned to Fort Campbell with only hours to recover before hosting students on Monday morning for routinely scheduled aquatics training. Likewise, the C-27J aircrew returned to Fort Bragg and assumed scheduled mission support to USASOAC.
Supporting the Army Enterprise
While the short-notice mission support to Fort Bliss was nonstandard, SOATB support to the Army enterprise, outside of USASOAC, is not unusual. In fiscal year 2018 alone, SOATB trained over 178 service members from various formations, including the 82nd Airborne Division, 101st Airborne Division, 25th Infantry Division and 1st Armor Division. SOATB’s unique composition allows it to remain flexible, current and thereby relevant to the demands of a complex and changing Operational Environment. Whether it is one of the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) POIs, overwater survival training, or advanced marksmanship skills prior to an upcoming deployment, SOATB's expertise and vigor continues to
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
benefit fellow warriors across the Army landscape. Operating within a funding and resource constrained environment, the SOATB team of military, contractor and General Schedule (GS) civilians creatively develop smarter, efficient and effective training methods in order to maximize valuable throughput. This synergy yields a superior training environment, producing the nation’s best aviators, crew chiefs and support personnel. Resultant of this exceptional training and support to the Aviation Enterprise, SOATB is a six-time awardee of the Ellis D. Parker Award, presented by the Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker, Alabama, for the Most Outstanding Aviation Training Battalion in the Table of Distribution and Allowances (TDA) category.
n Competent
SOF “Truths”
LTC Brian E. Supko is the commander and MAJ Phillip T. Vaughn is the executive officer of the Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion, located at Fort Campbell, KY.
Special Operations Forces (SOF) have five “truths” that SOF organizations hold as tenet. n Humans are more important than hardware. n Quality is better than quantity. n SOF cannot be mass produced.
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SOF cannot be created after emergencies occur. n Most Special Operations require non-SOF assistance. In this case, USASOAC charged SOATB to return the favor to our non-SOF teammates, giving them the assistance needed, in the form of water survival confidence, contributing to a safe and successful deployment to Puerto Rico. Based upon the five SOF “truths” SOATB anchors its core competence: producing readiness through realistic, quality training that sharpens specially assessed and selected Soldiers at all skill levels. SOATB stands ready to support the warfighter of today by training them for what may come tomorrow. “Volare Optimos!” (To Fly the Best), “First Step in Night Stalking!”
June 30, 2018
Special Focus u Army Special Operations Aviation Aviation Enlisted Technical Proficiency Gap:
The Problem or a Symptom
ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS AVIATION COMMAND
By MSG Christopher Kitchens and MSG Dustin Campbell
“H
umans are more important than hardware” is a Special Operations Forces (SOF) truth and an idea that people, rather than equipment, make the critical difference in mission accomplishment. With a lack of trust in Army Aviation military occupational specialty (MOS) proficiency and new buzzwords stirring attention to costly synthetic maintenance technologies and aviation maintenance training programs (AMTP), the simple solution could be free and right within arm’s reach. Succinctly put, the tools and resources needed to improve aviation maintenance capabilities are not right in front of us, they are us, noncommissioned officers (NCO). Any technical solution should serve to enhance leaders, not replace them.
Disintegration of Trust
The lack of MOS proficiency leads to a lack of confidence, which perpetuates the breakdown of trust within the aviation maintenance community. By the very nature of their jobs, aviation mechanics use mission command to ARMY AVIATION Magazine
the fullest extent. Without it, platoon leaders would be leading phases. Many perceived factors are contributing to the lack of confidence in the enlisted technician’s abilities to support operational requirements. First, leaders are distracted and not focused on maintenance due to increased emphasis on Army Regulation 350-1, Training Requirements. Secondly, dependence on contractor maintenance and high operational tempo has deprived Soldiers of critical experience. Finally, maintenance manpower is generally prioritized after support functions and details. Some of these may be true at the hangar you work in, but all of them equate to mechanics spending less time doing their jobs while making mistakes and gaining experience through direct leader interaction. Under the Army’s Select Train Educate and Promote system, Soldiers are mandated to attend the promotion board faster than they can gain the needed technical knowledge, which results in leaders that may not have the experience required. Ultimately, this adversely affects the leader’s ability to earn 42
A noncommissioned officer assigned to 2/160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment provides direct leader interaction while instructing a young Soldier on Black Hawk flight controls at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
the trust necessary to exercise mission command efficiently. MOS proficiency and junior leader development must be prioritized above all else.
Synthetic Maintenance Technology
One costly suggestion is synthetic maintenance trainers, or the ability to perform a representation of a task before actually doing it on-wing. This technology encompasses watching a video of someone completing a task (perhaps embedded in technical manuals), computer-generated images of magic flying tools going step-by-step through a task, and full on virtual reality. Ultimately, embedded videos, virtual reality, or any form of synthetic maintenance only better prepares someone to complete a task, but whether the cost is worth the benefit is still unknown. June 30, 2018
Could this capital be better invested into the human factor and spent on advanced schooling for individuals or improving the technical portions of our MOS specific military education system? In any light, the solution should always address the problem rather than a symptom. One could argue that the lack of Soldier proficiency is a symptom of poor command focus. A simple data dive into Operational Readiness rates will expose the multitude of available training opportunities.
Aviation Maintenance Training Program (AMTP)
If virtual reality assumes that a Soldier with basic level training will master a task without actually doing it, AMTP challenges that theory and gives the empowerment back to the leaders. Old and improved for 2018, the Army is changing the antiquated MOS Job Book and rebranding it into the AMTP. This updated program seeks to give the charge of training back to the NCOs. Armed with a new set of Individual Critical Task Lists (ICTL) and revamped forms, NCOs will take back the reigns of training tomorrow’s leaders, but not without the watchful eye of the Digital Training Management System (DTMS). Today’s digital world offers the ability to carefully scrutinize data about components, logistics and even people. To get this data, the Army mandates that all training records will be input into the DTMS. In comparison, the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), with a firm appreciation for “stripes on the flight line,” is developing software that automates the AMTP. Their program automatically pulls work history data from Unit Level Logistics System-Aviation (ULLS-A) and correlates it into individual Soldier profiles. The leader then certifies it into training records. This system will establish maintenance readiness levels and allow leaders to track progressions real-time without time-consuming data entry. The SOAR’s software will complement the AMTP and be a useful tool that enhances the leader’s ability to manage his or her force, but its usefulness is yet unproven. Any solution is still dependent on the technical proficiency of the NCO in charge.
Keep it Simple
Adm. (Ret.) William McRaven, ninth commander of U.S. Special ARMY AVIATION Magazine
A Soldier assigned to 2/160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment learns to fire the M2 .50 caliber machine gun at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, without ever stepping out on the range.
Operations Command, outlines the six principles of successful special operations in his 1995 book, “SPEC OPS.” Of these six guiding principles, three of the most important are simplicity, repetition and purpose. Regardless of what programs exist in the future, applying these principles at present, as a branch, cost nothing and fix the issues surrounding aviation MOS proficiency. Simplicity: Simple plans are easy to execute perfectly with repeatable results. Keep it simple. Ask any maintenance company commander what is the most critical thing their company does, and phase maintenance is likely at the top of their list. Prioritize maintenance events over Army Regulation 350-1 training, support taskings and other Garrison functions. Redefine success so that the numbers reported and rewarded are phase turn-around times and fully mission capability (FMC) rates, rather than Laser safety training numbers or Army Warrior Training statistics. Repetition: Repetition is the key to cementing training into muscle memory. Keep Soldiers on task and focused. Back-to-back phases and maintenance events will build a bench of experienced mechanics. Experience breeds confidence, while incompetence erodes trust. Purpose: Purpose is one of the keys to leadership. “I will strive to remain technically and tactically proficient” is a phrase straight from the Creed of the Noncommissioned Officer, an inherent duty. What does it say about purpose and priorities when a unit has junior 43
Soldiers instead of NCOs supervising critical tasks? It is impossible to build trust without technical competence, and leadership cannot happen without trust.
Conclusion
The tools and resources needed to improve aviation maintenance capabilities are not right in front of us, they are us, noncommissioned officers. Any technical solution we seek should enhance leaders, rather than replace them. Technology, software, programs and processes will all play a role in improving future aviation maintenance, but they will never be able to overcome or replace a battletested, technically proficient NCO providing hands-on instruction. Putting Soldiers to work and keeping them at work with as few distractions as possible is still the most cost-effective means of developing future aviation leaders. It is paramount that we recognize that skill comes from purpose-driven repetition. It’s that simple. People are more important than hardware or software, and we must focus on getting those people the experience they need to be successful and accomplish the mission. MSG Christopher Kitchens is the sergeant major and MSG Dustin Campbell is the noncommissioned officer in charge of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (Airborne) Aviation Maintenance Support Office located at Ft. Campbell, KY. June 30, 2018
Summit Recap
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9 01 – Army Vice Chief of Staff, GEN James C. McConville, visits attendees on the exhibit floor with members of the AAAA Executive Group. 02 – The more than 300,000 square feet of exhibits provided many opportunities for creating selfies. 03 – AAAA co-founder Dotty Kesten officially opens the Networking Exhibit Hall with the assistance of (l to r) MG (Ret.) Tim Crosby, AAAA Secretary, MG (Ret.) Walter Davis, AAAA Treasurer; MG (Ret.) Jeffrey Schloesser, AAAA Senior Vice President; LTC (Ret.) Jan Drabczuk, AAAA VP Chapters; Mr. Bill Harris, AAAA Executive Director; CW5 Joseph Roland, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Command Chief Warrant Officer; MG William ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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10 Gayler, Aviation Branch Chief and USAACE commanding general; AAAA President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt; and headquarters Department of the Army Director of Aviation, MG Frank Tate.
07 – Chapter officers gathered for a half-day of workshops on chapter operations, partially subsidized by AAAA National.
04 – Mission aircraft from the various components were provided for display.
08 –LTC (Ret.) Jan Drabczuk (black shirt), AAAA VP Chapters, guides discussions on chapter operations with attendees at the chapter workshops.
05 – The National Executive Board held its first 2018 semi-annual meeting during the Nashville Summit.
09 – A group of Soldiers enjoy the Soldiers’ Café which was centrally located across from registration.
06 – AAAA Secretary, MG (Ret.) Tim Crosby greets German Army Colonel Andreas Henne, chairman of the NATO Helicopter Inter-Service Working Group (HISWG) which met during the Summit.
10 – The AAAA membership booth in the Army Aviation Community area stayed busy throughout the Summit.
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19 11 – AAAA National President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt, pauses to capture the moment with Chapter Sponsored Soldiers during the Early Bird reception. 26 Soldiers from 25 AAAA chapters around the world attended as the guests of AAAA National and their individual chapter. 12 – Army National Guard was wellrepresented on the exhibit floor in addition to the Aviation and Safety Division once again conducting meetings for state army aviation officers and brigade commanders. 13 – Scholarship Foundation donors gather around Foundation president, BG (Ret.) Tom Konitzer (front, center, green tie) following the fundraiser luncheon on the opening day. 14 – Army Aviation Museum Foundation donors pose with AAAA National President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt and members of the Foundation staff. Foundation Chairman, LTG (Ret.) Dan Petrosky participated but was unable to remain for the photo.
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20 15 – AAAA co-founder, Dotty Kesten, admires the refurbished L-4 Piper Cub affectionately named the “Dotty K” together with son, Dale Kesten (right) and AAAA Executive Director, Bill Harris and President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt. 16 – Students from McGavock High School and the school’s ROTC program met with AAAA National Senior Vice President MG(Ret.) Jeff Schloesser (right) and CW5 (Ret.) Dave Cooper, AAAA National VP Membership (next to Schloesser). The school started a new AAAA chapter. 17 – Members of the Cub Club, a.k.a. “The Originals,” revisit an old friend – the L-4 Piper Cub known as “Dotty K” similar to the ones they actually flew in combat – with its name sake during the Summit.
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18 –Susan Sinclair, wife of former Aviation Branch Chief and AAAA past president, BG (Ret.) E.J. Sinclair (left), receives the AAAA Outstanding Soldier and Family Support Award from AAAA President BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt. The award is given at the discretion of the Association president for outstanding, long-term efforts in providing support to Army Aviation Soldiers and their families. 19 – COL (Ret.) Sam Torrey and LTC (Ret.) Chip Lunn reaffirm the old saying, “If you ain’t Cav, you ain’t….” 20 –More than 330 vendors provided attendees with a look at current and future capabilities.
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29 – A memorable moment from the opening with (right to left) support dog Unno; his new master, wounded former Marine, Garrett Carnes and his wife, Courtney; Unno’s donor, Army SFC Christopher Smith and mom Susana; United Airlines flight attendant Molli Oliver; and United Airlines corporate representatives VP Mike Quiello and Jim Casey. 30 – President of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA), Mike Sheuerman, speaks at the Summit opening session.
35 21 – Standing room only in the Opryland Hotel and Convention Center’s Delta Ballroom for the 2018 Summit opening ceremony. 22 – AAAA President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt officially opens the 2018 Summit. 23 – Director of the U.S. Army National Guard, LTG Timothy J. Kadavy, shares the National Guard perspective with attendees. 24 – MG Andrew J. Poppas, commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles, welcomes attendees to the Summit via video from Afghanistan. 25 – Army Aviation Branch Chief and commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, AL, MG ARMY AVIATION Magazine
31 – The AAAA James H. McClellan Aviation Safety Award winner, SPC Nicklaus A. Black, makes acceptance comments.
William K. Gayler, makes a point during his branch update.
32 – Dr. William D. Lewis is awarded the Joseph P. Cribbins Department of the Army Civilian of the Year award for CY 2017.
26 – NASA Astronaut, retired Army Aviator COL Shane Kimbrough, presents the AAAA banner that he displayed on the International Space Station as Expedition 50 Commander to AAAA President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt, during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Summit.
33 – The AAAA Army Aviation Soldier of the Year, SPC Madeline R. Rampona, displays her award together with her mother, Michele Canon and grandmother Doris Reed.
27 – Keynote speaker, GEN James C. McConville, Army Vice Chief of Staff, makes a point about modernization. 28 – Screaming Eagle assistant division commander for support, Master Army Aviator BG K. Todd Royar, delivered an in-person welcome at the Summit opening.
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34 – The AAAA Henry Q. Dunn Crew Chief of the Year, SPC Jacob M. Ramsey, accepts his award. 35 – SFC Brittany A. Barfield accepts the AAAA Rodney J.T. Yano Non-commissioned Officer of the Year award.
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36 – The AAAA Outstanding Army Aviation Unit of the Year is 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, Task Force Raptor – commander, COL Matthew W. Braman (center); Command Chief Warrant Officer, CW5 James M. Hogg (left); and senior NCO, CSM Mark G. Brock. 37 –The AAAA John J. Stanko Army National Guard Aviation Unit of the Year 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment commander, LTC Jeffrey E. Long (left holding trophy), and senior NCO, CSM Michael R. Gordon, Jr. accept the award on behalf of unit Soldiers and are congratulated by LTG Timothy Kadavy (left of Long), Director of the Army National Guard and GEN McConville
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45 38 – The AAAA U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Unit of the Year 5th Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment commander, LTC Matthew Hill (right), and senior NCO, CSM Charles A. Booth, receive their award on behalf of the unit and were congratulated by BG Scott Morcomb (left of Booth), commanding general of the U.S. Army Reserve Aviation Command. 39 – The AAAA Active Army Aviation Unit of the Year is 4th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment – commander, LTC Derek A. Smith (left), and senior NCO, CSM Steven J. Hartmann; also celebrating (l to r), 1LT Shea, CW4 Stephen Frazee, and MAJ Keith Benoit.
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46 40 – The AAAA Robert M. Leich Award winner 29th Combat Aviation Brigade members celebrate the unit’s selection with commander, COL Mark Beckler (left of trophy); Command Chief Warrant Officer, CW5 Albert B. Isennock (right of trophy) and CSM Steven McKenna (left of Beckler). 41 – LTG (Ret.) Roger C. Schultz (left) received the prestigious AAAA President’s Award. 42 –The AAAA Michael J. Novosel Aviator of the Year Award winner, CW3 Kristopher M. Bassett celebrates his award with (l to r) his uncle, Rob Hamlin; friends Ryan and MAJ Dan Schwendeman; mother, Synthia Smith; and aunt, Sandy Smith. 51
43 – The Army Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Banquet was held April 26th, during the Summit. 44 -– CW4 (Ret.) Gerold Dean Brown joins family and friends by his portrait following his induction into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame. 45 – Family and friends of CW4 William “Willie” L. Ruf pose next to his portrait following his posthumous induction into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame. 46 –CW5 (Ret.) Paul L. Price is surrounded by family and friends as he celebrates his induction into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame.
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47 – MG Erik Peterson (center), CG 1st Army Div. West, moderates a total team Army Aviation discussion panel with participants (l to r) COL Ray Davis, Hqs, Army National Guard; BG Timothy Gowen, DCG-ARNG, USAACE; BG Scott Morcomb, CG, Army Reserve Aviation Command; and MG Troy Kok, CG, 99th Regional Support Command. 48 –Dr. Juanita Harris, director of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) provided an RD&E Update.
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49 –The commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, AMCOM, MG Douglas Gabram, makes a point during his Sustaining the Fleet update.
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60 commanding general of 7th Infantry Division, BG Walter Rugen, opened the second day of professional sessions.
61 55 – The Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, Mr. Jeffrey White, provided an AL&T update on the first day.
Glen Monrad (Mid-Atlantic Chapter/Master); Mr. Gary Nenninger (Tennessee Valley Chapter/ Super); and COL (Ret.) Randy Rotte (Delaware Valley Chapter/Senior). 51 – BG Thomas H. Todd III, the Army Program 59 – Representatives from the “Quilts of Honor” Executive Officer, Aviation, updates attendees on 56 – This year’s Summit added for the first time organization presented quilts to each of the the Aviation portfolio during the Friday morning a Cavalry Warfighters Forum where squadron professional session. commanders were able to interact with attendees. Honored Heroes that attended the Summit. 60 – Past AAAA President and past president 57 – Country music duo, Big and Rich, 52 – Director of Army Safety and commanding of the Scholarship Foundation, MG (Ret.) Carl H. performed for the Soldier Appreciation Dinner/ general of the U.S. Army Combat Readiness McNair, Jr. received the AAAA Founders Award Concert and invited Howard Burbank and his Center, BG David Francis, discusses trends and from AAAA President BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt for wife from the Vietnam-era 227th Reunion and programs in the world of Aviation safety. Unno’s new dad Garrett Carnes to sit at the bar his accomplishments and longstanding support of AAAA. Pictured with him are Dotty Kesten 53 – MG Frank Tate, the HQDA director of Army up on stage as they performed. (left), who together with her husband, Art, is a Aviation fields questions from attendees on founder of the Association; and AAAA Executive 58 – Top chapters for 2017 were recognized at Friday afternoon. the annual meeting portion of the dinner/concert. Director, Bill Harris. 54 – MG (Ret.) Tim Crosby, AAAA National Pictured from left with AAAA President, BG (Ret.) 61 – Former members of the Vietnam-era Secretary, moderates an industry leaders forum Steve Mundt (3rd from right) and Executive 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 1st Air Cav in the Networking Exhibit Center. Director, Bill Harris (left), are: (l to r) MAJ Dustin Brigade held their annual reunion concurrently Wilkie (Prairie Soldier Chapter/AAAA); LTC (Ret.) with the AAAA Annual Summit. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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First Place
Second Place ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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Photography Contest Winners ARMY AVIATION Magazine is proud to present the winners of our annual photography contest. 35 qualified AAAA members, submitting 78 Army Aviation related photographs taken during CY 2017, competed for the top 12 places. We congratulate the winners and thank all of the contestants for their efforts and service. We invite all AAAA members to participate in our 2018 contest. Visit the AAAA website, quad-a.org for details and submission requirements. Bill Harris, Publisher
First Place - “Snowy Sling Loads in Grafenwöhr”
By Captain Jaymon A. Bell, Headquarters, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, Ansbach, Germany January 18, 2017; Grafenwöhr Training Area, Germany
Soldiers from Cobra Battery, Field Artillery Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, hook up their M777 Howitzer to a CH-47 Chinook Helicopter from Company B, 1st Battalion, 214th Aviation Regiment, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, “Big Windy,” during environmental qualifications and sling load training.
Second Place – “See You on the Ground”
By Alcone J. Levier, Clarksville, Tennessee August 30, 2017; The Plain, U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York
Cadets of the West Point parachute Team wave to onlookers as they fly past aboard a UH-72A Lakota from the West Point Flight Detachment.
Third Place – “Hawaiian Heavy Duty” By John M. Dibbs, Redmond, Washington November 4, 2017; Wheeler Field Range
Two Chinooks from the Hawaii Army National Guard 171st Aviation Regiment face-down the camera with gunners flashing the local “Shaka” symbol.
Fourth Place – “The Eagle’s Nest” By Andrew Gilbert, Homestead, Florida June 2, 2017; Camp Mackall, North Carolina
An MQ-1C Gray Eagle from 1st Battalion, 82nd Aviation Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade staged in its hangar.
Fourth Place ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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Honorable Mention – “Crews Loading a UH-60L” By Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jon D. Campbell Maine Army National Guard, Hermon, Maine July 27, 2017; Bangor International Airport, Bangor, Maine
Honorable Mention – “Shadow UAV Operator Finding the Enemy” By LTC Elizabeth Martin, 2nd Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment, Honolulu, Hawaii July 20, 2017; Shoalwater Bay Training Area, Australia
Honorable Mention – “Preparing for Deployment” By Sergeant Matthew L. Magreta, Corpus Christi Army Depot, Corpus Christi, Texas November 9, 2017; Corpus Christi Army Depot, Texas
Honorable Mention – “On the Go” By LTC Jerry P. Mellick, U.S. Army Ret., Spokane Valley, Washington October 13, 2017; Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, Georgia
Members of G Co, 3-126 GSAB secure two UH-60Ls on board a C-17 for transportation to Alpina, Michigan as part of Operation Northern Strike.
B/2-6 Shadow Operator locates the enemy during Exercise Talisman Saber 2017 at Shoalwater Bay Training Area, Australia in support of Battle Group Pegasus.
SPC Ashtyn Zimmerman trims a wire from a de-ice box to prevent frost on UH-60 rotor blades.
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Three Army Aviation Historical Foundation Sky Soldiers aircraft take off for an airshow demo.
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Honorable Mention – “Little Bird Bath” By Cynthia L. Maier, Cumberland Furnace, Tennessee June 7, 2017; Fort Campbell, Kentucky Last flight of Lieutenant Colonel Mike Mora
Honorable Mention – “UH-60L Upload to a C-17” By CW5 Jon D. Campbell Maine Army National Guard, Hermon, Maine July 27, 2017; Bangor International Airport, Bangor, Maine
Members of G Co, 3-126 GSAB secure two UH-60Ls on board a C-17 for transportation to Alpina, Michigan as part of Operation Northern Strike.
Honorable Mention – “The Golden Knights” By Andrew C. Gilbert, Homestead, Florida February 27, 2017; Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida
The U.S. Army Parachute Team, “The Golden Knights,” execute winter training over Homestead ARB.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Honorable Mention – “All Eyes Are On You” By Manuel Saladrigas Jr., Mesa, Arizona August 23, 2017; Eglin, Florida
Apache E-model aircraft hovering during a maritime exercise near Eglin, Florida.
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ALL U.S. ARMY PHOTOS BY TAD BROWING, U.S. ARMY OTC PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Next Generation Air-To-Ground Missile Testing At YPG By MAJ Matthew Miskowski and Mr. Mark Schauer
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viation testers at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona are deep into testing the latest Army aviation missile, the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile ( JAGM) during a Limited User Test (LUT).The complex JAGM test was a collaborative team effort between the West Fort Hood, Texas-based Aviation Test Directorate (AVTD) of the U.S. Army Operational Test Command (USAOTC), Yuma Test Center (YTC) at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, and Redstone Test Center (RTC) based at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. AVTD coordinated multiple efforts to assure a successful test as JAGM moves towards its next major milestone, a low-rate initial production decision. “The close cooperation between YTC and the Operational Test Command during the short duration was critical,” said LTC Karsten Haake, Chief of the AVTD Rotary Wing Test Division. “Without the professionalism and the mission dedication of the YTC range support team, test completion would have been significantly delayed. This was truly a team effort.”
Testing Feedback
Participating pilots give the new weapon’s versatility high marks. “One of the things that sticks out to me is the simplicity for the crew in terms of how they select weapons for their missions,” said CW5 John Bilton, ARMY AVIATION Magazine
the first non-experimental test pilot to fire the missile, a milestone that took place at YPG in the fall. “Before, we had to put a lot of thought into, ‘What do I need?’ As soon as I launch, I don’t get to come back and change out my missiles,” Bilton said. “In combat, you don’t want to encounter a target you need to hit and not have on-board the right missile for the job.” The JAGM boasts the ability to use semi-active laser (SAL) or radiofrequency (RF) as a means of guiding it to target. Moreover, the crew can switch modes within seconds as a combat scenario evolves. “Using a SAL missile, the last six seconds of the missile flight is the most critical to keep your laser sight on target,” explained Michael Kennedy, Experimental Test Pilot, Aviation Flight Test Directorate, RTC. “If you’re getting shot at and your line of sight goes off the target, your missile misses. JAGM can start off using the laser, then transition to the radar portion and still hit the target if the crew has to use evasive maneuvers.” More capable in adverse weather conditions and boasting a longer range than the older Hellfire, the JAGM can now be fired and aircrews can retreat to a safer standoff distance, but also can be aimed without pointing the laser directly at the target. “The ability to not have to put the laser directly on the target and let the ad58
Above: Test pilots for the JAGM LUT are (left to right): CW3 Justin Porter, Master Gunner, Gunnery Branch, Directorate of Training and Doctrine (DOTD), Fort Rucker, Alabama; CW5 John Bilton, Brigade AH-64D/E Subject Matter Expert, 110th Aviation Brigade, Ft. Rucker; CW5 Scott Jackson, AH-64D/E Recon and Attack Standardization, Training and Doctrine Command Capability Manager (TCM) Recon Attack, Ft. Rucker; and Mr. Michael Kennedy, Experimental Test Pilot, Aviation Flight Test Directorate, Redstone Test Center, Alabama. Left: Pilots fire the new Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) being tested at Cibola Range, Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, in support of deliberate attack mission against armor ground vehicle targets.
versary know that you are about to kill him is a tremendous benefit,” added Al Maes, Aviation weapons technical advisor for the Training and Doctrine Command’s Capability Manager (TCM) Recon Attack. “Once you have the missile off the rail and encounter smoke or dust or fog, a regular laser missile could lose that target. With JAGM, I have a pretty good guarantee that I am going to kill that target with a single missile instead of multiple missile shots.” YPG’s vast ranges and variety of realistic targets is a great location and allows the Apache equipped with JAGM to operate in a variety of situations and altitudes that resemble an operational environment. Though the operational test is now complete, further developmental testing, including integrating new software to support the JAGM into the Apache will continue at YPG. MAJ Matthew Miskowski is assigned to the Rotary Wing Aircraft Division, Aviation Test Directorate, U.S. Army Operational Test Command; and Mark Schauer is with Yuma Proving Grounds Public Affairs; both in Yuma, AZ. June 30, 2018
News Spotlight u Vietnam Helicopter Pilot and Crewmember Monument Dedicated
M A G A Z I N E
BLUE BOOK DIRECTORY
Vietnam Helicopter Pilot and Crewmember Monument Dedication ALL GRAPHICS/PHOTOS COURTESY VIETNAM HELICOPTER PILOTS ASSOCIATION
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER ISSUE
A flight of 4 UH-1 “Hueys” flies over the memorial at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Following years of effort, spearheaded by the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA), a monument in remembrance of all Vietnam helicopter pilots and crewmembers was dedicated at Arlington National Cemetery on April 18, 2018. In 2015, the VHPA placed a red maple tree in memory of the pilots and crewmembers who lost their lives. However, the VHPA felt that with almost 5,000 combat deaths and 13 years of war a permanent monument was justified. With the support of other veterans’ organizations (including Arlington National Cemetery | April 18, 2018 AAAA), Gold Star families, and key individuals such as MG (Ret.) Carl McNair and U.S. Representative Mark Amodei (R-NV), the VHPA legacy committee diligently worked to obtain permission for a granite monument near the tree. Located in Section 35, near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it bears the profile of a UH-1 “Huey” used by all branches of the military in the Vietnam War as well as the seal for each service. The ceremony, which was conducted in the Memorial Amphitheater and included a wreath-laying by VHPA President Mike Sheuerman at the memorial site, was attended by more than 3,000 and concluded with a fly-by of four UH-1Ns,courtesy of the U.S.Air Force.
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Update Your Unit! The Blue Book Directory Issue is Referenced All Year by Army and Industry! VHPA Legacy Committee Chair LTC (Ret.) Bob Hesselbein (at podium) introduces Reverend Jerome Daly (former decorated Army Aviator) who provided the invocation. Also on the stage are (l to r) BG (Ret.) Stephen D. Mundt, AAAA President (partially hidden); Congressman Mark Amodei; Hesselbein; MG (Ret.) Jim Jackson, Director of the 50th Anniversary Commemoration; Daly; Ms. Karen Durham-Aguilera, Executive Director of Cemeteries; USMC BG Gering; MG (Ret.) Carl McNair; Mr. Egon Hawrylak, deputy commander, Military District of Washington; Senator Tammy Baldwin (WI); Ms. Julie Kink, Gold Star Family Coordinator; and LTC (Ret.) Mike Sprayberry, Medal of Honor recipient (partially hidden).
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Historical Perspective u 35th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Aviation Branch
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u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT
AAAA Scholarship Foundation
Scholarship Foundation Annual Report
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Board meetings are held semi-annually in conjunction with the AAAA Annual Spring Summit and the AAAA National Executive Board October meeting at AUSA. The Executive Committee meets monthly telephonically to act on Foundation business between meetings of the Board. The Officers are accountable for management decisions. Day-today business is conducted by full-time support from Sue Stokes, from Army Aviation Publications, Inc. (AAPI) with reimbursement by AAAA. Summit Luncheon On Thursday, April 26th, at the AAAA Summit in Nashville, we hosted the Scholarship & Museum Donation Luncheon where industry and individuals give to each of the Foundations. Both are 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations recognized by the IRS as taxexempt by virtue of their charitable programs. This means that any contribution is tax deductible. I want to personally thank all who gave so generously and exceeded all previous luncheon donations with $108,542 collected that day, and a grand total of $140,092 with other donations received since the first of the year. After donations were received, I provided a brief summary on the health of SFI. Since its inception in 1963 we have made 4,408 awards totaling more than $7M. While today our total assets are over $7.1M, over $5M of that is restricted for specifically named scholarships. As a charitable organization we are governed by UPMIFA (The Uniform Prudent Management Institutional Funds Act) that provides guidance on ARMY AVIATION Magazine
investment decisions and endowment expenditures. As a result, our Management Policy dictates an investment/ spending rate up to 3.5%. We are, therefore, building-up our General Fund to cover a 3-year period of the most stressful scenario, one in which every Chapter requests matching scholarships. It is significant to note that our Finance Chair – Karen Lloyd, Executive Director – Bill Harris, and I recently received the results of our annual audit with positive indicators throughout. In 2017 we had increases in total assets, Greater Giving (contributions), investment income, and endowed funds. We could not achieve these results without your generosity. I would like to point out that not one penny of your donations is spent on overhead to administer the program, although we do cover our own portfolio management fees. AAAA, as a separate and distinct corporation pays our overhead expenses. A special thanks to all. Strategic Planning Last year I briefed the luncheon attendees about the Strategic Planning Committee chaired by VP – Lou Bonham, overseeing working groups that were formed to address the areas of governance, financial management, and the scholarship selection process. Since then, several actions were accomplished: • A new AAAA www site has been launched with a link to the Scholarship pages (quad-a.org/scholarship) with more user-friendly information for Donors and Applicants. • We joined the National Scholarship Providers Association (NSPA), which 62
AAPI PHOTO BY MIKE ULLERY
he AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Incorporated (SFI) is run by a volunteer Board of Governors (BOG - 24 elected / 6 appointed), with an Executive Committee made up of the officers (President, VP, Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Director) and the Chairs of the Standing Committees (Finance, Fund Raising, Marketing & Publicity, Alumni, Policy, and Nominating). Scholarship recipient Katie Huff addresses luncheon attendees during the 2018 AAAA Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit April 26, 2018 at the Opryland Hotel and Convention Center, Nashville, TN.
is made up of over 200 similar organizations that share useful information. • We are expanding our Donor Base and will be seeking grants to achieve our goal of $1M a year. • We are simplifying the Application process by requiring only one reference from a Teacher and eliminating one from a friend or family member. • We are wrestling with the challenge of how to move the award date to coincide with High School Graduations in the May timeframe dealing with the reality that our Annual Audit drives the train. • We recognize that a $1K scholarship does not go far in today’s economy, so we need to at least double that and increase the asset base to keep up with increased awards. • We instituted a Charitable Gift Annuity Program where you are guaranteed income for life. For more information go to the scholarship website, www.quad-a. org/scholarship and choose “Charitable Giving” from the Donate heading. • Finally, we moved to a fully electronic selection process, which will require a minimum of 170 volunteer voters from all demographics: the AAAA National Board, the SFI BOG, the AAAA Awards Board, Spouses, VHPA (Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association), and especially the Chapters. June 30, 2018
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AAAA SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION
Thank You to Our Donors! AAAA recognizes the generosity of individuals, chapters and organizations that have donated to the Scholarship Foundation throughout the calendar year. Since 1963, the AAAA Scholarship Foundation has played an important role in supporting the education of Army Aviation Soldiers and their families. This would not have been possible without generous support from the Army Aviation Industry, Private Donors and AAAA Chapters. Thank You! A choice to donate to the AAAA Scholarship Foundation, is a choice to support an Army Aviation family.
MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE
100% of every donation made to the AAAA Scholarship Foundation goes directly towards scholarships.
For more information about the Foundation or to make a contribution, go to
quad-a.org/scholarship
What can you do to help? Continue Giving! In addition to your Treasure, we also need your Time & Talent to help with the electronic voting currently in July. Sue Stokes will be sending out requests for names in the June timeframe, so let your Chapter VP for Scholarships and/or President know you are willing to help. A highlight of the Scholarship portion of the Luncheon was from our keynote speaker, Katie Huff, a scholarship recipient during 2011-2013. The awards helped her earn an Associate’s Degree from Calhoun Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, both from the University of Alabama, Huntsville. She currently is a contractor at Redstone Arsenal and serves as Communications Coordinator for the Tennessee Valley Chapter of AAAA. A special thanks to Katie for her thoughtful remarks and tremendous support. In conclusion, our SFI Mission is the same as AAAA: Supporting the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family! Thanks for all you do in fulfilling this mission. BG (Ret.) Thomas J. Konitzer President AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Inc. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
AAAA Online Store
Get Ready for Summer! Quad-a.org
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u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT By LTC (Ret.) Jan Drabczuk
AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ
AAAA Chapter Affairs
Best Summit Ever!
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AAA broke its record this year with the largest ever AAAA Summit. Over 7,000 people and over 330 industry exhibitor firms attend this great networking event! At the summit, the association rose over $100,000 for scholarships, recognized 11 outstanding individuals and units through the National Awards Program and inducted three people into the AAAA Hall of Fame at the AAAA Hall of Fame Induction Banquet. Seventy-two of our chapters had chapter members that attended the Summit. One third of our chapters also sponsored a Soldier to attend the event at no cost! A lot was accomplished. Top Chapers Recognized Four of our chapters were recognized at the Summit Soldier Appreciation Concert. Chapters achieving Top Chapter of the Year status for 2017 were Tennessee Valley Chapter, Top Super Chapter (over 500 members), Mid-Atlantic Chapter, Top Master Chapter (200-499 members), the Delaware Valley Chapter, Top Senior Chapter (75-199 members) and the Prairie Soldier Chapter, Top AAAA Chapter (75 members and below). Competition was tight this year. Chapters are more alive now than ever. Get out there and make your Chapter a 2018 Top Chapter Winner! Record Attendance At Our Chapter Workshop Our chapter workshop continues to attract chapter officers. All AAAA chapters were invited to attend the chapter workshop, with AAAA National providing financial assistance for chapters to attend. We had 53 Chapters represented and 75 chapter officers in attendance. Individual chapter discussions were quite robust and informative. The half day Chapter workshop focused on how to improve the quality of programs ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Chapter Workshop participants pause for a Kodak moment at the Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville, TN during the 2018 AAAA Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit.
and National Support that our chapters bring to our membership. The sessions included highlights on Chapter Metrics, National Office Support, Chapter Fiscal Operations, Local and National Award Procedures, Scholarship Procedures and Membership Do’s and Don’ts. Chapter Highlights We presently have 78 Active Chapters in 4 categories. 353 chapter events were submitted to AAAA National in 2017. The NEG funded over $170,000 to support 213 events for 50 chapters. Events have been grouped into six categories; quarterly, sporting, social, fundraising, organization days and community action. For this year through the end of April, the NEG has already funded $56,275 to support 42 events for 23 chapters. Events have been the driving force to grow chapters with roughly half of our chapters growing membership. We continue to recognize our members. Last year 46 chapters submitted 601 OSM/Knight awards. Scholarships still are a big push at the chapter level. 38 Chapters helped keep our scholarship program alive and well. Their support helped AAAA achieve a record year awarding $474,000 to a total of 288 scholarship participants. Looking Forward To Next Year Those of you who had a chance to attend this year’s Summit, probably noticed our summit just keeps growing. Nashville seems like a second home. There was a great professional agenda coupled with fun events on the social agenda. Next year we are back in Nashville, 14-16 April, starting on a Sunday next year. Seems like time goes even faster in aviation and the year will go by fast. Chapter programs continue to improve, our Chapters are growing and our Association is strong. This happens with great National and Local chapter leadership. We should all be proud that we support Army Aviation, the Soldier, military families and the local community. LTC (Ret.) Jan S. Drabczuk AAAA VP for Chapter Affairs
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Life member, Mr. Mike Whittaker, was inducted into the Silver Honorable Order of St. Michael by AAAA National President, BG (Ret.) Stephen D. Mundt, on April 27, at the Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit, Nashville, TN. Whittaker was recognized for his decades of service as the AAAA staff head of Summit security, ensuring the safety and well-being of all, VIP and attendees alike.
CHAPTER PHOTO BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
LTC Cornelius Allen, director of the Redstone Test Center Aviation Flight Test Directorate, inducted CW4 Joseph B. Fay III, into the Bronze Honorable Order of St. Michael at Redstone Arsenal, AL on April 6. Fay was recognized for his contributions to Army Aviation over 14 years as an aviator, standardization instructor pilot, instrument examiner, maintenance test pilot, experimental test pilot, and test director. He is changing duty stations to Ft. Eustis. VA.
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY KELLY MORRIS
Aviation Center Chapter
U.S. ARMY PHOTOS BY MSG SHANNON BLACKWELL, PUBLIC AFFAIRS, USASOAC
AAAA National Treasurer, MG (Ret.) Walter L. Davis (left), together with chapter president, COL (Ret.) Dean Heitkamp, inducted BG John R. Evans Jr., into the Gold Honorable Order of St. Michael during a farewell social on May 3 at Ft. Bragg, NC. Evans was recognized for his career-long support of Army Aviation, especially in his current assignment as commanding general of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command. He assumed command of the U.S. Army Cadet Command at Fort Knox, KY on May 11.
Outgoing Aviation Branch and U.S. Army Center of Excellence (USAACE) Command Sergeant Major, CSM Gregory M. Chambers, was inducted into the Gold Honorable Order of St. Michael by AAAA Secretary, MG (Ret.) William T. “Tim” Crosby and Aviation Branch Chief and USAACE commanding general, MG William K. Gayler, on May 6 prior to his change of responsibility ceremony at Fort Rucker, AL.
CHAPTER PHOTOS BY 1SG (RET.) WILLIAM DAVID SWARTZ
Colonial Virginia Chapter
CW5 Mark A. Meyer, command chief warrant officer of the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command, was inducted into the Silver Honorable Order of St. Michael by AAAA National Treasurer, MG (Ret.) Walter L. Davis (left) and chapter president, COL (Ret.) Dean Heitkamp, during a farewell social on May 3 at Ft. Bragg, NC. Meyer was recognized for his outstanding support of Army Aviation throughout his career and will remain at Ft. Bragg in his new assignment as the command chief warrant officer of U.S. Army Special Operations Command. His wife, Melissa Meyer, was inducted into the Honorable Order of Our Lady of Loreto at the social for her unfailing support to Army Aviation over more than 28 years.
CHAPTER PHOTO BY TOM VOIGHT
AAPI PHOTO BY MIKE ULLERY
Iron Mike Chapter
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY MSG SHANNON BLACKWELL, PUBLIC AFFAIRS, USASOAC
AAAA National
Mr. Joseph L. Harkey, air traffic control business lead for fixed base, was inducted as a Knight of the Honorable Order of St. Michael by chapter VP Operations, COL (Ret.) Ray Woolery, at Redstone Arsenal, AL on 19 April. Harkey was recognized for more than 40 years of consistently outstanding support to Army Aviation as an officer and government defense contractor Chapter president, Mr. Gary Nenninger, inducted
CW4 (Ret.) James Schmidt, chief logistician for the Aviation Flight Test Directorate, Redstone Test Center, into the Bronze Honorable Order of St. Michael on April 4 at Redstone Army Airfield, Redstone Arsenal, AL. Schmidt was recognized for his service to Army Aviation over 21 years to include four combat rotations, accumulating over 3,500 flight hours (including more than 600 combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan). He will remain at Redstone as the RTC Safety Officer.
LTC (Ret.) Mark S. Jones, deputy to the commander, 128th Avn. Bde., was inducted into the Gold Honorable Order of St. Michael by AAAA National Secretary, MG (Ret.) William T. “Tim” Crosby and brigade commander, COL Rick Zampelli, on April 18 at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA. Jones was recognized for his longstanding, significant contributions to Army Aviation spanning 45 years of combined military and civilian service. His wife, Sara Jones, was inducted into the
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Tennessee Valley Chapter
Honorable Order of Our Lady of Loreto by chapter president, SGM (Ret.) Joseph W. Shabbott on April 20 at The Hound’s Tale in Williamsburg, VA for her faithful support of the aviation community during 23 years of active duty, and 20 year career as a Department of the Army Civilian.
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Order of St. Michael and Our Lady of Loretto Inductees
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AAAA Membership
By CW5 (Ret.) Dave Cooper
The Membership Corner From Devil Dog to Raven
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He participated in a WestPac cruise on the USS Boxer from February to November 2001. Port calls included visits to Hawaii, Philippines, Australia, Thailand and a humanitarian mission in East Timor. In 2003 he deployed with a Marine Air Wing to Kuwait, Baghdad, Al Kut and met U.S. Army Aviation Soldiers. After a short break in service, he entered the U.S. Army in October 2005 and graduated Warrant Officer Flight Training flying UH-60s. WO1 Hart’s first assignment out of flight school was Co. A, 2nd Bn., 2nd Cbt. Avn. Bde. (CAB) in Korea. Missions there included air assault, VIP transport and DMZ patrol. After this tour he was assigned to 3rd CAB at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia in Co. C, 4th Bn. The unit deployed to Regional Command East and Bagram, Afghanistan. They augmented Co. A, 2nd Bn., 3rd CAB providing air assault, general support and VIP support missions. On his return, CW2 Hart attended the UH-60 Maintenance Test Pilot Course and was assigned to B/4-3rd Avn. About the time he was settled back into Hunter Airfield he was PCS’d to Ft Carson. He was one of the first Warrant Officers in the unit. How new was the 4th CAB at this time? The brigade commander was a captain and the command sergeant major was a sergeant, E-5. In December 2014 it was back to Afghanistan, this time with the Special Mission Wing. After his Mi-17 Aircraft Qualification Course he flew -17s in Kandahar with the 3rd Squadron. Maintaining the Mi-17s was a full time job. But he remarked, “Helping the Afghans defend their country was
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
very rewarding. I have nothing but accolades for our Afghan partners.” He said that he worked with the Afghans everyday training and improving their maintenance capabilities. When he returned to Ft. Carson, 4th CAB was deployed. He was assigned as the Quality Control Officer at the aviation support battalion, a position normally held by a CW5. In July 2017 he attended Warrant Officer Intermediate Level Education (ILE) and was assigned to 4th Ranger Training Battalion, Ravens. For those unfamiliar with this particular aviation formation it is a company (-) with 7 UH-60 aircraft and 25 Aviation Soldiers. The Ravens are commanded by a major. Out of Lawson Army Airfield they support three phases of Ranger School: Ft Benning, GA; Mountain Phase in Dahlonega, GA as well as the Florida phase at Camp Rudder. They also provide support to Ft Benning’s Air Assault and Pathfinder courses. The Ravens support all schools with Special Mission tasks including: Special Patrol Insertion\Extraction System, Fast Rope Insertion\Extraction System, Overwater operations, helo-cast and paradrop. CW3 Hart heaped praise on the enlisted maintainers and crew chiefs in the unit. He noted, “While our maintenance support is through contract maintenance our crew chiefs are the best in the business. When we’re away from home station they can fix almost anything. They are on par and in most cases surpass their peers in knowledge and ability.” During an unusually slow moment in the company area the aircrews talked about forming their own AAAA chapter. Besides the company there are nu-
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PERSONAL PHOTO PROVIDED BY CW3 DAVID HART
ave Hart began his service to the nation as a US Marine. He joined in 1999 and served as an Airframe and Hydraulic mechanic.
CW3 Dave Hart and family.
merous retired Army aircrew members in the Ft. Benning area who were excited about the idea. The Ravens were enthusiastic about the idea and made it happen. The newly formed Follow Me chapter is scheduled to have its first meeting a day after this article is published. Dave is the treasurer for the chapter. Dave and his wife Patricia have been married for 9 years. Their daughter is 5 years old. During his off time he enjoys woodworking. He has built tables, chairs and a bed. However, he is most proud of an unusual project. His wife’s hobby is raising chickens. She asked him to build a chicken coop with wheels allowing her to move it around their yard. Dave said the mobile chicken coop is a “one of a kind and a work of art!” His breadth of service to the nation and aviation experience make Dave a shining example of “Serving the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family.”
CW5 (Ret.) Dave Cooper AAAA Vice President for Membership
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Air Assault Chapter SFC Rollie Coleman II CW3 Calvin C. Fernstrum, Ret. CW3 Scott Kampsen CW2 Raymond P. Scharlott Aviation Center Chapter COL George G. Ferido Iron Mike Chapter 2LT Paul C. Ambrose Jack H. Dibrell/Alamo Chapter LTC Robert Baumberger, Ret. Jimmy Doolittle Chapter 1SG Kevin Shuler Morning Calm Chapter MAJ William Witt, Ret. Narragansett Bay Chapter Ms. Kathleen Searle North Texas Chapter CAPT Kennard Hill Thomas Morgan Jr. Pikes Peak Chapter SFC Robert Evanoff Prairie Soldier Chapter CPT Oliver Clay Berglund SFC Chris L. Sterns Tennessee Valley Chapter COL Jerry Egbert, Ret. Joy Martin LTC Mathew K. McCauley CW4 Bob Monette, Ret. Thunder Mountain Chapter LTC Ted Girouard, III Ret. Thunderbird Chapter CW5 Paul Merchant Volunteer Chapter COL D. Mark Ferrell, Ret.
New AAAA Members
Air Assault Chapter SPC Nicholas A. Babb SGT Resty B. Botor CW2 Ethan P. Boyer PFC Daniel L. Brown SPC Marcus A. Cathey CW3 John Clement, Ret. SPC Collier S. Collier SGT Michael B. Davies Ian Eastwood SFC John W. Fielder SPC Oswaldo J. Flores PFC Trentyn C. Fraley SGT Carrington J. Gray SPC Russell E. Gray SSG John L. Green SPC Gabriel J. Hanson SPC GenePatrick F. Hart PFC Ronald G. Hines KathiSue Johnson SPC Travis R. Kelly SPC Jesse T. Kliss SFC Jason I. Lewis SPC Jeffery T. Lloyd SPC Poblo C. Lopez CPT Jesus E.Maldonado SSG Benjamin M. Mariano Peter Mikulak SPC Gabrielle J. Morgan PFC Darryl Myers PFC Sajan Osti SPC Miguel A. Ramos SPC Eric C. Reed SGT Andrew G. Rice SFC Christopher D. Rognrud PV2 Thomas K. Rose
Derek J. Rowe Connor Rowland CW3 Stephen Sandefur CPT Eric C. Scholl SSG Cory L. Schroer SPC Kolin A. Schurter CPT Seth W. Shook SFC Matthew T. Summerhill SFC Dustin Thoele SPC Kevin R. Thomas SPC Andrew W. Thomas SPC Riley R. Travis SPC Carmello Vazquez SPC Luis D. Vega SGT Emmanuel Vellon SFC Brandon B. Vilt SGT Christopher M. Wajda SPC Devin M. Wallace PFC Rothell Wasson SSG Allen V. Wedhorn SPC Michael A. Yelmgren SSG Johan G. Zarae Arizona Chapter PV2 Michael A. Baldenegro WO1 Michael R. Lopez CDT Branden Wilson Badger Chapter PV2 Nolan R. Siolka Big Sky Chapter CPT Matthew Drew Rowland Central Florida Chapter PV2 Logan R. Thompson Delaware Valley Chapter SPC Alexander Demeo Gold Standard Chapter PV2 Amy R. Olson Great Lakes Chapter PV2 John M. Kushner Griffin Chapter CPT Scott Aaron Kulifay Grizzly Chapter SSG Anabel Avendano SPC Fabio Avetisyan SPC Adam W. King SGT Shaun K. Ochsner SFC Marty C. Ortiz SPC Rodolfo Ulloaavalos Keystone Chapter CPT Daniel B. Hunsicker 1LT Cameron Pollard SGT Kenneth A. Rivers Lindbergh Chapter PV2 Tyson A. Rushprater Lonestar Chapter PV2 Daniel A. Valadez Magnolia Chapter SSG Matthew Lizana SFC Amber Simpkins CPT Kenneth G. Strickland III Mid-Atlantic Chapter PV2 Gabriel S. Cruz SPC Jhon. Salamancacamargo Morning Calm Chapter CW4 Keith Schreurs CW5 Michael R. Zanders Mount Rainier Chapter CPT Aric Jensen PV2 Andrew J. Shelley North Star Chapter PV2 Cuong T. Nguyen Phantom Corps Chapter SFC Kevin Dewey CW3 Joshua M. White Rio Grande Chapter CW2 Matthew Bricker PV2 Ceke Niderhauser Rising Sun Chapter LTC Bryan C. Jones Savannah Chapter
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
SSG Adam H. Shaw Sinai Chapter CW3 Joseph Wonacott Southern California Chapter PFC Rendell P. Veldstra Thunderbird Chapter SPC Stephen H. Bruke Utah Chapter PFC Garth V. Winterton Volunteer Chapter David Asamoah David Hubbell Tyler A. Hudgins Jessica Le Orsbon Addison T. McLean SPC Jeremy S. Neasley Tony E. Youssef Winged Warriors Chapter CPT Clayton J. Hancock CW3 Daniel Hodge CW2 Jordan Morgan SSG Raul Palmer 1LT Jack Pinnell SPC Chance Poland SGT Justin Sotomayor Wright Brothers Chapter PV2 Deanna L. Cooper
Lost Members
Help AAAA locate a member on this lost list and receive a FREE one month extension to your AAAA membership. SSG Kenneth R. Wilson Jessica Cote SGT Jamilah Brunkalla PV2 Noah B. Lee SPC Nicholas A. Granger CW2 Phil McAulfife Geoffrey Cooper COL John Ferrell Kristi Bagwell CPT Adam F. Werner PFC Kayla M. Coan COL Talmadge C. Sheppard WO1 Brent Hess SSG Charles Whipple Josh C. Sauls PV2 Orville O. Nelson Michael Furmanski CW4 Jayson Ayala-Velazquez SPC Ashley Duncan Jeffery E. Babine COL Chad E. Ward SGT Cory S. Edwards SPC Vincent T. Jacobs 1LT Isaac Hendrik Kim 1LT Lewis Hudson Raymond J. Pietruszka Gerald R. Meador Christopher Scalia Parker Jarvis WO1 Brian C. Lane LTC Peter D. Kowal 1LT Robbie Flowers PFC Matthew Carns COL Benard S. Pergerson, Ret. CW2 Raymond T. Ballance SPC Mitchell D. Hunt WO1 Ryan C. Crum Natalie DuGay CSM Tamera L. Eldredge SPC Ana V. Mayo COL William S. Gallaway Jr. Jerry F. Irwin PFC Braeden R. Rollins SPC Eli Cisneros Fred A. Newcomb
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PFC Steven A. Scheffer PV2 Jacob Alan Hooker PFC William T. Kidder LTC James Christie, III Ret. 1LT Joseph T. Bell, III CW4 Bruce C. VanDenEng, Ret. George R. Berry David Geisler Chris DeLong CDT Marcus R. Winebrenner CW2 Samuel D. Slate 1LT Wade L. McMinn Michael T. Cowperthwait SPC Vicente Estronza Amalia R. Ferguson CPT Kevin M. Burns COL Larry R. Boehme, Ret. Christopher G. Taylor SPC James Grimm CW4 David A. Hall 1SG Thomas Durrer PV2 Jason N. Orozco CPT Kevin B. Sklenicka Angela Biekert Robert G. Wilks Jr. Kevin Daly MAJ Steven B. Barrier Jr. SGT Cory Tyler Fountain Richard Gentner Kayla C. Benjamin Mark E. Smith SPC Joshua P. Kidwell Kathryn Jäger PFC Ian Orozco CW3 Chad Bardwell Jeremy Smith SPC Brett Christopher Butler CW3 Susan R. Pensinger CPT Adam Guay PV2 Landon J. Udy Dennis Mayo Michael Boies CW2 Gregory J. Arceneaux 1LT Timothy S. Mathisen SPC Chris L. McKenzie CPT Catherine McNair SSG Alexander C. Castle Ron Philpot 2LT Justin M. Snow SSG Kyle A. Ratliff SFC Darius Lazare SPC Joshua P. James PVT Isaiah S. Garrod CW4 Jeffrey S. Curd CW5 Walter J. Redding Jr. John G. Ramiccio Joshua J. Greenman Bo Goode Cynthia M. Donna COL Lloyd J. Petty, Ret. SPC Anthony K. Zimmerman SFC Travis Ross John B. Schmidt
CPT Daniel Suggs Keith Weaver COL Michael P. O’Connor, Ret. Marlin Brandon COL Don E. Vinson, Ret. 1LT Jena Brown CW3 Joshua McMinn Mike McDowell MSG Jose Cadengo CW2 Paul M. Stirling William P. Mitchell SGT Michael Morelli Jr. MSG Erik Vorhoff SSG Alexis Santos SPC Dale A. Jones Dennis Davis MAJ Cristian Robbins Augie Svatek Lt. Col. Keith Townsend CW2 Eric M. Wilkins SPC Kyle E. Moss CSM Steve Mohror, Ret. CW3 Adrian Barajas David Graham SSG Ramon Luis Rosariomartinez 1LT Carlton M. Buck 1LT Andrew E. Petefish SPC Devin Kenny-Hernandez Greg Zell CW3 Philip M. Louis CPT Tyler K. Carson PV2 Samuel B. Malchowski CW2 Eric R. Currier MAJ Brett L. Monette Cynthia Crutchfield PVT Owen C. Farrow Meredith Ennis MSG Jeremy A. Schmidli Marcie Kozar SGT Bradley R. Rullmann CPT Adam M. Endres CPT Samuel R. Calvert CSM Albert Serrano MSGT Ricardo Jaramillo MAJ David Butler COL Lawyn C. Edwards, Ret. Mitch Delk Dave Buchanan CW5 Paul George CW5 Isaac L. Sauer PVT Caleb A. Summitt LTC Paul G. Belobrajdic MAJ Robert A. Kibler, Ret. CSM Ronnie B. Littler SGT Sean McCommon SPC Tommy Preston Clark COL Louis H. Jordan Jr. PV2 Christian T. Clark SFC Shawn Kirby PFC Jay J. Deleontorres SPC Devane L. Sprull Adam P. Zacek
UPCOMING EVENTS
JULY 2018
3-7 VHPA 35th Reunion, Atlanta, GA 23-29 EAA AirVenture, Oshkosh, WI
AUGUST 2018
24-27 NGAUS 140th General Conference & Exhibition, New Orleans, LA
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AAAA Family Forum
By Judy Konitzer
AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ
Aviation Command Team Update for Spouses
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ow do you spell success? With another AAAA Summit at the Opryland! Opportunities abounded to see old friends, meet new ones, honor awardees, enjoy a fun Big & Rich concert, and the opportunity to hear an honest and candid update from our USAACE Command Team.
AAAA President, BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt, makes a point during the Spouse professional session with the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence command team, MG Bill Gayler (center), CW5 Joe Roland (left), and CSM Greg Chambers.
MG William Gayler, CW5 Joseph Rowland, CSM Gregory Chambers and their spouses, Michelle, Kathy, and Rebecca offered a spouse professional program entitled “A Strategic Overview of Army Aviation Within the Larger Army.”
lief that Soldiers join the Army wanting to serve and to be part of a team, and discussed the importance of properly and rapidly integrating Soldiers into the unit. He also acknowledged that “The Army must continue to work to increase retention to alleviate stress on the current force and to ensure for the health of the future force.” CW5 Rowland spoke about retention and attracting more people into the branch. He emphasized that while multi-generational families are a valuable source of recruitment, the Army must expand its search to attract men and women from other walks of life. He also encouraged spouse attendees to tap into their community resources, and remarked that a newly established leadership program at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas for warrant spouses in elevated positions has been well received.
High OPTEMPO MG Gayler began by thanking the spouses for what we do and added, “It’s no surprise to you that the Army is busy.” He acknowledged that the operational tempo is high, and that in reality we could use more combat aviation brigades than the eleven currently within the Active Duty force. When the Army drew down, unfortunately, the requirements remained the same. With Aviation being the second most deployed branch, it is obvious that the strain is being felt here. Gayler said that “…any future plans for aviation growth would require authorization from Congress and would also have to compete with other Army programs and priorities…” and if apARMY AVIATION Magazine
proved, would take about 4-5 years to grow a CAB. When discussing training and potential requirements on the horizon, he reminded spouses that “We will never ask our Soldiers and Aviators to do something that they are not trained to do.” He said that there was also a new Army effort to alleviate a significant percentage of mandatory training requirements that should provide more time back to units. Gayler asked the spouses to let his team know of challenges that they might not be aware of so “we can try to fix them.” He also encouraged spouses, especially for those in leadership positions, to remind their Soldiers to “set the example by coming home at a decent hour.” When they do, everyone else in their units will follow their lead, and it will increase overall productivity as well. CSM Chambers spoke about the character of Aviation Soldiers, specifically highlighting them as the “backbone of the Army.” He expressed his be68
Airline Transitions An interesting discussion ensued about warrants who were being atJune 30, 2018
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NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u tracted to the airlines. MG Gayler said” We have to accept it, embrace it, acknowledge this mitigates risk to our nation, and account for it by bringing more people into the branch.” The second installment of an aviation incentive program is also underway, and is being better received. But Gayler did indicate that some are finding the transition to the commercial airline industry not all rosy; the pay and benefits are not always as great as advertised, and that it is important to be well-informed before making this decision to transition.
AAAA Chapter News
Family Readiness Groups (FRG) There was much open discussion about FRG among spouses, as well as from the Command team. Michelle Gayler was mindful when saying “We need to relax and have fun every day.” In today’s world where so much information is available on the web, it is not as important to flood spouses with information overload by having FRGs be all business. Michelle recommended “Be productive by throwing in a thing or two about the unit or the Army, but then make it fun!” She was genuine in her adage that “relationships are important and spouses need a human touch to make them want to stay around.” Some spouses expressed their discouragement that events held when spouses were deployed were very well attended, but once their Soldiers returned they were back to square one with dwindling participation. They were reminded that this is characteristic at most installations, and “You were there to support them when they needed you, and when they need you, they will be there again.” BG(Ret) Mundt, current AAAA President, also encouraged spouses who were in a deployment cycle to contact their local AAAA chapter and ask for their support. In closing, it was refreshing for me to again hear that the Aviation branch command team acknowledges spouses have a significant impact on retention in today’s Army. I have always believed in the saying “If Mama ain’t happy, then nobody is happy!”
On April 14th the Arizona Chapter of AAAA joined forces with the Arizona Chapter of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation for a membership drive and picnic. Members of the American Helicopter Society (AHS), Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA) and the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) all were invited to join in at historic Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona. The AAAA Chapter sponsored drawings for 3 rides in the AAHF AH-1 Cobra. Hats off to COL (Ret.) Dave Sale and the team of volunteers from the AAFH who made this event happen.
Judy Konitzer is the family forum editor for ARMY AVIATION; questions and suggestions can be directed to her at judy@ quad-a.org. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Lindbergh Chapter Visits Sugar Creek Winery
PHOTOS BY MARK BENNETT
CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO
Arizona Chapter Membership Drive Picnic
Members and guests of the Lindbergh AAAA Chapter met at the Sugar Creek Winery in Defiance Missouri on May 5, 2018. The chapter provided an assortment of winery snacks and wine for all of the attendees. Members passed around a bound book of the AAAA magazines from 1962, a small part of the collection the Chapter received from a long time life member, COL(R) Ken Kellogg after his recent passing. The day ended with several stories from the past of some of the exploits of the members.
CHAPTER PHOTO BY JOYCE M. WILSON
Mid-Atlantic Chapter Soldiers
Mid-Atlantic Chapter president, COL (Ret.) John J. Gallagher (center), presents the chapter Noncommissioned Officers of the Year, SGT Alex Demeo (left), 244th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade (ECAB), and SFC Matt Gwin, 29th CAB with customized humidors donated by Peter Martin of Ameripack at its annual chapter meeting during the AAAA Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit on April 25, 2018 at the Old Hickory Steak House, Opryland Hotel and Convention Center, Nashville, TN.
Jimmy Doolittle Chapter Supports New AASF Opening
South Carolina National Guard and aerospace officials celebrated the grand opening Monday, April 23, 2018 of a new aviation training facility on the South Carolina Technology and Aviation Center campus that will be shared by Greenville Technical College and the South Carolina Army National Guard. The Jimmy Doolittle Chapter partially subsidized by AAAA National, provided post ceremony refreshments at the over 95,000 square foot facility.
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CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTOS
Southern California Chapter Meeting
The Southern California Chapter held its 1st quarter 2018 meeting on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at Fiddlers Green Pub on the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) in Los Alamitos, CA. Pictured are some of the chapter members about to participate in post meeting social activities.
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Thank You to Our Scholarship Fund Donors AAAA recognizes the generosity of the following individuals, chapters and organizations that have donated to the Scholarship Foundation in the first calander year 2018 through May 31. The list includes donations received for all scholarships, as well as the General Fund which provides funding to enable the chapter, corporate, heritage and individual matching fund programs as well as national grants and loans. Donors marked with an * are partially or totally donating to the newly established Families of the Fallen Scholarship. Every penny donated to the Scholarship Foundation goes directly to a grant or loan as a result of the Army Aviation Association of America subsidizing ALL administrative costs!
AAAA 2018 Summit Speakers COL (Ret.) Sidney Achee Airbus Group AmazonSmile AAAA Arizona Chapter Army Aviation Association of America Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union Army Otter Caribou Association, Inc. Aspen Consulting Group BAE Elisabetha Baugh Bell LTC (Ret.) Frank S. & Elaine H. Besson Black Diamond Syngery LLC The Boeing Company James Brown, Sr. Cynthia Campbell Northstar Aerospace Combined Federal Campaign Walt Davis DG Marketing, LLC Digiflight, Inc. James O. (Joe) Emerson Erickson, Inc.
Leslie H. Gilbert Greater Giving Donald & Alestin Graham Albert & Lisa Isennock JACS Acft Cert Specialists JW Data, LLC Arlo D. & Mary R. Janssen Johnson & Johnson K-Con, Inc. Kinetic Defense Mfg., Inc.* Carl Kreisel Scott Kubica LiteFighter Systems, LLC Jodi Lynch M1 Support Services Robert Maiberger Peter Martin Marvin Test Solutions, Inc. LTC (Ret.) Thomas J. McNamara Don Munsch Munsch & Co. Aeromechanics Network for Good K. W. Park Patriot Taxiway Industries Lawrence P. Peduzzi
Peduzzi Associates, Ltd. Phantom Products, Inc. LTG (Ret.) William & Marilyn Phillips Piasecki Foundation Pinnacle Solutions, Inc.* Diana Radspinner Raytheon Cameron Regur Rockwell Collins Safran Helicopter Engines Safran Electrical & Power Safran U.S. A. Sigmatech, Inc.* AAAA Southern California Chapter Evelyn A. Soucek* Supply Chain System Studies & Simulation, Inc. AAAA Thunder Mountain Chapter COL (Ret.) Harry & Diana Townsend Vanguard Charitable Vertol Systems Company, Inc. Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association AAAA Washington Potomac Chapter COL (Ret.) Michelle Yarborough *Families of the Fallen Scholarship Fund
For more information about the Foundation or to make a contribution, go online to www.quad-a.org Contributions can also be mailed to: AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Inc., 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.
AAAA Awards
Order of St. Michael Recipients Gold William D. Lewis BG John R. Evans Jr. Mark S. Jones CSM Gregory M. Chambers Silver CSM James H. Thompson Jr. SFC Martin F. Charlier, Ret. CW5 Leonte I. Cardona Jeffery N. Conger SGM Stephen T. Garvin CW4 Johnny A. Garcia CW4 Thomas A. Lynch, Ret. CW5 David J. Keshel COL Joseph A. Hoecherl LTC Kyle M. Hogan
CSM Maurice L. Johnson, Ret. BG Scott R. Morcomb COL Jenness F. Steele CW5 John w. Bailey Jr. CSM Jamespeter M. Matthews LTC James B. Hardy MSG Scott B. Newhart LTC Clayton Braun COL Stephen E. Watkins, Ret. COL Philip J. Ryan Walter G. Adams CW5 Adam Jarvis CW5 Mark A. Meyer CW5 David Burrell COL Andrew D. Gignilliat Michael G. Whittaker Bronze MAJ Lucasz Derda CW4 Jacob A. Crause
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
COL Matthew A. Judson CPT Emory Blair MSG Mark A. Wilson MAJ Samuel L. Wigley MAJ Anne Murphy MAJ Timothy Satterthwaite MAJ Jerry Brennan CW4 Jeremy Symkowick CW4 Shannon Lauinger MAJ Pearl Christensen CPT Lance Garnett SFC Edward Keopuhiwa CW5 Roberto X. Villarreal MSG Timothy J. O'Connell 1SG Ryan E. Becker CW4 Wayne Burtis SSG Joel Redman Michael G. Younce CPT Luke Leininger COL Richard T. Anderson, Ret. Brian Holmes CW4 Aaron G. Mitchell SFC Matthew R. Ward SFC Jonathan Campbell SFC Ariel Benitez SFC Norman Robles SFC Joseph Talbott CSM Curtis R. Patrouille MSG Glenn K. Hamer MSG Mark D. Felix SFC James M. Merzenich 1SG Troy D. Kleinheinz 70
CW4 Alan R. Geoffroy 1SG Matthew Oliver, Ret. CW4 Troy J. Bittner CW2 Troy A. Buford SFC David I. Gonzales CW4 Brandon T. Griffel SFC Christopher D. Wilson CPT Kyle S. Unger CPT Nathan P. Taylor CPT Dorothy M. Reid MAJ Graham F. Inman MAJ April D. Kearney CW3 Jason Hewett 1SG Jose G. Aresotero MSG Randy S. Lower MAJ Zachary Dadisman MSG Andrew R. Verenski MSG John M. Campbell CW3 Chad Moore LTC Jesse A. Crispino MSG Homer Daigle MSG David VanDeMark SSG Luke C. Yetter 1SG Laurence B. Minor II SFC Jonathan D. Grover Eddie C. Baker MAJ Matthew J. Bowman 1SG Derek Bassett LTC Christopher K. Enderton CW3 Anthony Weeks 1SG Jerome L. Vandyke CPT David J. Lilja
MSG Eric D. Jacobs CPT Ryan Gibbons CW4 Darren E. Embry CPT Brook J. Doll CPT James C. Corke MAJ Jason Brubaker CPT Miller A. Tisson CW4 Ryan P. Mahany MAJ James Fischer CW4 Kyle S. Clark CW4 Rodney C. Weiss CW4 Christopher L. Ronald CPT Daniel D. Hockstedler CW4 Daniel J. Blank MAJ Nolan Roggenkamp CW3 Andrew M. Allred CW3 Jason S. Ruge SFC Enrique Ortizoneill 1SG Eric Wright CW3 Levi Z. Siegfried MAJ Paul M. Fugere MAJ Jason A. Mangiaracina 1SG Susie Nu'uvali MSG Jeremy Whittaker CW5 Eric S. Puette CSM Larry Taylor LTC Andrew Batten 1SG Kenneth Caldwell MAJ Daniel Lee CW5 Lester A. Furr III CW4 David S. Reynolds MSG Michael E. Thompson June 30, 2018
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In Memoriam
FALLEN HEROES
CONUS
The Department of Defense announced on April 8 two Soldiers from the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) were killed when their AH-64E Apache helicopter crashed at approximately 9:50 p.m. Friday, April 6 during a routine training mission in the local training area on Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
CW3 Connolly
WO1 Casadona
Killed were: CW3 Ryan Michael Connolly, 37, of Manchester, Missouri; and WO1 James John Casadona, 28, of Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. The accident is presently under investigation. May they rest in peace.
(Information from Defense Department news releases and other media sources.)
Brandon C. Roush LTC Arthur A. Marubbio, Ret. CW3 Robert E. Fraser II, Ret. MSG John Pacheco MAJ Anne R. Murphy-Flaherty SFC Thaddeus Spencer SFC Luke Backes SFC Matthew Allen SFC Carl Marshall SFC Mandrell Douglas MSG Preston Rader CPT Donald R. Petrash Jr. CPT Benjamin J. Hickman LTC Jose L. Reyes SFC Kimberly N. Floyd MAJ Amoreena L. York CW3 Marlon D. Stewart SFC Christopher M. Raby Jennifer A. Potts Robert Sheibley COL Douglas W. Mills COL Kevin Powers SFC Douglas J. Patterson SFC Greg A. McIntyre MAJ Christine P. Downs CPT Jordan DiLena CSM Kenneth Howe MAJ Chad A. Monroe CPT Travis Fielder CW4 Jeffrey R. MacNaughton MAJ Greg A. Pasquantonio MAJ Kyle A. Kivioja
Honorable Knight Recipients
MAJ Latisha Irwin CPT Richard D. Dwyer Mayor Jae Kwang Kong BG Tae Up Kim RADM Suk Jong Bu MAJ Michael R. Caldwell 1LT Sara R. Kidd CSM Christopher D. Spivey COL Jack D. Perrin LTC James H. Bolton, Ret. Joe L. Harkey Our Lady of Loreto Recipients
Robyn E. James Carisa M. Arevalo
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
Amanda Miller Angela Garrett Shannon Kendall Deborah L. Reynolds Brenda Gallant Ashley Bergeman Yunhui Danforth Yvette J. Spielman Cynthia Gonzales Lacey Griffel Angie Savage Alison Lower Tracey Boyle Linda A. Combs Lottie M. O’Connell Rachael Roggenkamp Artina Dwyer Tanisha S. Caldwell Jennifer L. Binford Wendy L. Mills Rebeka D. Pacheco Pauline P. Reid Nicole Annicelli Ambre Hayes Beckie Rood Dani Boozer Dani O’Donnell Jourdan Long Ashley McGraw Briceland Farrell Kimberly Cody Jessica Humbert 71
AAPI FILE PHOTO
AAAA is saddened to announce the recent loss of the following Aviation Soldiers.
General Crosby Edgerton “Butch” Saint, U.S. Army Retired
AAAA is saddened to announce the passing of GEN (Ret.) Crosby E. “Butch” Saint from congestive heart failure shortly after midnight on May 7 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, with his wife, Merrylin at his side. He was 81. He graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1958, receiving his commission in Armor. He served two tours in Vietnam, and had five tours with U.S. Army, Europe. In addition to serving as Commander in Chief, U.S. Army Europe/Commander, Central Army Group from 1988 until his retirement in 1992, his commands included 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment; Seventh Army Training Command; commanding general of 1st Armored Division and III Corps and Fort Hood, Texas. After retiring from the military, he established a consulting firm specializing in foreign relations and national security issues. He served on the Army Science Board, at one time sat on the advisory board for the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs, and served as Chairman, for the Vice President’s National Performance Review on Intelligence Support to the Ground Forces. A life member of AAAA, he was one of the first two inductees into the then-newly approved Gold Order of Saint Michael (the other was Joe Cribbins) during the 1992 AAAA Annual Convention in Atlanta, GA. He was the founder and first chairman of the AAAA Senior Executive Associates and received the AAAA President’s Award in 2013 for his profound impact on Army Aviation, the Army and the nation. A great Soldier, leader, American and friend, he will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date. May he rest in peace. NCO of the Quarter SSG Anabel Avendano Grizzly Chapter- 2nd Quarter NCO of the Month SGT Shaun K. Ochsner Grizzly Chapter - April 2018 SFC Marty C. Ortiz Grizzly Chapter- March 2018 SSG Susanne-Marne Avery Mount Rainier Chapter January 2018 1SG Michael L. Luna Mount Rainier Chapter
February 2018 Soldier of the Month SPC Adam W. King Grizzly Chapter-April 2018 SPC Fabio Avetisyan Grizzly Chapter-March 2018 PFC Christopher S. Hanna Mount Rainier Chapter January 2018 Soldier of the Quarter SPC Rodolfo Ulloaavalos Grizzly Chapter-2nd Quarter
June 30, 2018
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Industry News
Announcements Related to Army Aviation Matters
Editor’s note: Companies can send their Army Aviation related news releases and information to
[email protected]. The Nation’s First Airworthiness Engineering Certificate Grads
L3 Communications Vertex Aerospace LLC, Madison, MS; AAR Supply Chain Inc., Wood Dale, IL; DynCorp International LLC, Fort Worth, TX; Arma Aviation Corp., Tampa, FL; North American Surveillance Systems Inc.,* Titusville, FL; and Pinnacle Solutions Inc.,* Huntsville, AL, will share in a $25,500,000,000 hybrid (costplus-fixed-fee, and firm-fixed-price) contract for aircraft and support equipment maintenance, minor modification, and supply chain management primarily for performance outside the continental U.S. to support equipment and personnel in known theaters of operations; work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of April 3, 2028.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University held simultaneous bi-coastal commencement ceremonies on April 6 for the inaugural graduating class receiving Certificates of Study in Airworthiness Engineering (CSAE) in Melbourne, FL and San Diego, CA. Embry-Riddle and Northrop Grumman Corporation partnered in 2017 to develop the nation’s first airworthiness engineering graduate study program designed to meet the anticipated needs of Northrop Grumman’s missions. According to a university spokesman, until the CSAE program launched, there was no formal course of study in airworthiness in the United States. The 15-month-long program blends synchronous and asynchronous online coursework, and results in the certificate and 12 graduatelevel credits, which can be applied toward a master’s degree at Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide and Daytona Beach, FL campuses. Embry-Riddle now offers the airworthiness engineering program to all interested participants, regardless of employer through the College of Engineering in Daytona Beach.
Lockheed Martin Corp., Orlando, FL, was awarded a $33,490,882 modification to contract W31P4Q-15-C-0043 for 331 M299 Hellfire legacy launchers and 32 launcher electronic assemblies; work will be performed in Orlando, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2020.
Contracts – (From various sources. An “*” by a company name indicates a small business contract)
ALKAN............................................................... 33 BAE Systems..................................................... 15 Bell Helicopter - Military......................................... 1 Chief Commercial Claims Branch.......................... 5 Coastal Seat Cushions, Inc................................. 25 Columiba Helicopters, Inc................................... 30 David Clark Company......................................... 35 Eclypse International Corp................................... 23 Flight Data Systems LLC..................................... 21 FLIR Systems, Inc............................................... 29 GE Aviation........................................................ 80 MD Helicopter.................................................... 19 Meggitt Defense Systems..................................... 7 PCX Aerostructures............................................ 11 PeopleTec, Inc................................................... 31 Phantom Products, Inc....................................... 27 Science and Engineering Services, SES, Inc......... 2 SKEDCO, Inc..................................................... 25 Streamlight Inc................................................... 33 Universal Avionics Systems Corp........................ 10 UTC Aerospace - ISR & Space Systems............. 13 ViaSat.................................................................. 9 Vinnell Arabia...................................................... 41 Yulista Holdings, LLC.......................................... 34
Raytheon Co., Fort Wayne, IN, has been awarded an $11,906,673 hybrid (cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price) contract for AN/ ARC-231 multi-mode aviation radio suite hardware components, and technical, engineering, and logistic related services in support of product manager, aviation mission equipment; work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of April 19, 2020.
Advertisers Index
B3 Enterprises LLC, Woodbridge, VA, was awarded a $9,907,596 firm-fixed-price contract for refuel and defuel support services for the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, Ft. Rucker, AL; work will be performed at Ft. Rucker, with an estimated completion date of March 30, 2025. CAS Inc., Huntsville, AL, was awarded a $9,612,512 modification
to domestic and foreign military sales (Afghanistan, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Tunisia, United Kingdom, Indonesia, Mexico, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Australia, and South Korea) contract W31P4Q-05-A-0024 for programmatic service support for the Aviation Network and Mission Planning Product Office and Air Traffic Control Product Office; work will be performed in Huntsville with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2019. Innovative Automation Technologies LLC,* Gainesville, FL; Aerovironment Inc.,* Monrovia, CA; Altavian Inc.,* Gainesville, FL; GECO Inc.,* Mesa, AZ; Strata-G Solutions Inc.,* Huntsville, AL; Blackbar Engineering LLC,* Tucson, AZ; and EFW Inc., Fort Worth, TX will compete for each order of the $248,500,000 firmfixed-price contract for long range reconnaissance surveillance and medium range mobile unmanned aircraft systems; a tactical open government-owned architecture controller; and spare and repair parts; work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of March 31, 2023.
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AAAA Legislative Report
By LTC Kevin Cochie, Retired AAAA Representative to the Military Coalition (TMC)
[email protected] FY19 Budget Update
As discussed in past issues, the long and arduous process that turns the Army’s budget request (POM) into an annual defense bill and appropriations has many steps. The FY19 request that was passed to Congress in February is moving through the process and will equate to policy and funding authorizations for Army Aviation. All budget requests are reviewed and adjusted by the four defense committees and the first committee to do so is the House Armed Services Committee (HASC). The SASC, HAC-D, and SAC-D all follow suit in a parallel but trailing timeline. The HASC sub-committees mark up the various parts of the budget request and then provide a draft version of the NDAA (defense bill) to the full HASC committee (all 61 Members) for approval before sending it to the full House of Representatives (435 Members) for passage. We care about the whole HASC committee of course, but two sub-committees have the most influence on funding for Army Aviation. Army Aviation Modernization Programs are most influenced by the Tactical Air and Land subcommittee which is chaired by Rep. Michael Turner (OH-10). Aviation Operations and Maintenance Programs are most influenced by the Readiness sub-committee which is chaired by Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-2). Critical to the budget process is that Aviation leaders such as Branch Chief MG Gayler, MG Gabram, MG Tate, BG Todd, BG Rugan, and soon BG Dave Francis who is backfilling MG Tate engage Members and staff to explain and justify the funding requested. Additionally, industry lobbyists engage sub-committee Members and staff to influence funding and policy that will favor their companies. The HASC passed their version of the FY19 NDAA on May 9th by a vote of 60-1 and the outcome was favorable for Army Aviation. The HASC authorized $717B for DoD. While Army Aviation numbers are still being totaled and despite some minor HASC changes and report requirements on the FVL program, numbers appear to align with the Army’s requests. One of our strongest voices on the hill in recent months has been the Army G8 Aviation Director, COL Mac McCurry. He noted, “During markup for the FY19 NDAA, the HASC has continued their extraordinary support for Army Aviation. The focus on increasing lethality by filling the AH-64 fleet ARMY AVIATION Magazine
and modernizing the UH-60 fleet across the Total Army Force, all while demonstrating their interest in FVL, shows that the committee remains solidly behind rotary-wing aviation as a full partner in combined arms maneuver.”
What’s Next?
The SASC is underway in making their adjustments to the NDAA and, as of this writing, were slated to take their version of the defense bill to full committee on May 21st. This will set the conditions for negotiations between the HASC and SASC for a final version of the FY19 NDAA which should occur over the summer. At the same time, the HAC-D and SAC-D are ongoing with their markup process that will ultimately result in an Appropriation bill that actually issues the funding to the Army.
Pay Raise
A notable piece of good news coming out of the HASC’s version of the defense bill was the authorization of a 2.6% pay raise for our active force. Hopefully the Senate will follow suit, so we can see the biggest pay raise we’ve seen in almost a decade.
2018 Election Cycle
As a general rule, people are more likely to vote during Presidential Election cycles, but it is just as important to pay attention to mid-term election cycles and how they could influence defense spending and our Army Aviation goals. Currently while the Executive Branch (White House) and the Legislative Branch (both the House and Senate in Congress) are controlled by Republicans, the Administration’s agenda concerning National Defense are being realized with generous defense spending and priorities that help Army Aviation modernization and readiness. Following November’s mid-term elections, Republicans will still control the White House, but majority control in both the House and the Senate could shift. The GOP currently holds a significant majority in the House but all 435 Members are up for re-election. Currently in the Senate, the GOP holds a one seat majority and 26 Democratic and 9 Republicans are up for re-election. If the GOP loses control of one of the chambers, then compromise between Republicans and Democrats becomes critical if defense spending continues to be a pri73
ority. With the obvious impasse in compromise we’ve seen for years, the generous funding streams of FY17, 18, and 19 could change rapidly. Defense spending bills must be passed in Congress before the President can sign them into law. As you can guess, this is much easier when one party controls both chambers in Congress. Thus, election results could result in big changes for our enterprise. That said, we hope the momentum for Army Aviation Caucus can be sustained regardless of Party majority. We wish our four Caucus co-chairs, Rep Martha Roby (AL-2) who holds a coveted seat on the House Appropriations Committee–Defense,Rep Mo Brooks (AL-5) who holds a seat on the House Armed Services Committee along with Rep Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) also on Appropriations, and Rep Tulsi Gabbard (HI- 2) on Armed Services and Readiness committees best of luck in November. These Members have a vested interest in the success of Army Aviation and should they lose their primary or general election, there is no guarantee that the replacement, a freshman Member(s), will acquire defense committee assignments. As such, this year’s midterm elections pose high stakes for defense spending and Army Aviation.
Upcoming Special Focus 2017 Blue Book Issue
1942-2017 pg. 50
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CONTACT:
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[email protected] or Erika Burgess
[email protected] 203. 268.2450
June 30, 2018
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People On The Move Aviation General Officer Promotions/ Assignments
Deployments/ Redeployments
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY CPT KRISTOFFER SIBBALUCA, 101ST CAB
MG Frank M. Muth, program manager, Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program, Saudi Arabia, to commanding general, U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky; BG Thomas R. Drew, deputy commanding general (Support), 2d Infantry Division (Combined), Eighth Army, Republic of Korea, to deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, NC;
COL Craig J. Alia (left), commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and CSM Reginald Thomas (right), the brigade command sergeant major, case the colors during a casing ceremony at Fort Campbell, Ky., May 23, 2018 in preparation for the CAB’s upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.
BG David J. Francis, commanding general, U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center; and director of Army Safety, Fort Rucker, AL, to director, Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, DC; and COL (P) William D. Taylor, deputy commander (maneuver), 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, TX, to commanding general, U.S. Army Operational Test Command, Fort Hood, TX.
Awards
Muth Honored by Saudi Arabia
PM SANG COURTESY PHOTO
U.S. ARMY PHOTO
The chief of staff, Army announced the assignment of the following aviation general officers:
HH Prince Khalid bin Abdul Aziz bin Ayyaf Al Meqren, Minister of the Saudi Arabia National Guard, presented the King Abdul Aziz Medal, First Order, to U.S. Army MG Frank Muth, program manager, Saudi Arabian National Guard during an award ceremony held at the headquarters of the Minister National Guard, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on May 14, 2018. The award presentation was attended by Chris Henzel, Charge d ‘Affairs, U.S. Embassy, and MG Peter Utley, Chief, U.S. Military Training Mission, senior members from Muth’s staff, and senior leaders from the Minister Saudi Arabian National Guard. The King Abdul Aziz Medal has been presented to former U.S. presidents and state department personnel, as well as other foreign heads of state.
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June 30, 2018
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People On The Move Flight School Graduates AAAA provides standard aviator wings to all graduates and sterling silver aviator wings to the distiguished graduates of each flight class ... another example of AAAA’s SUPPORT for the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family.
51 Officers, March 29
Commissioned Officers
2LT Lloyd, Ian H. – DG 2LT Connell, Peter T. – HG 2LT Johnson, Michael R. – HG 2LT Jones, Ryan D. – HG 2LT Wynne, Jonathan D. – HG 2LT Bower, Michael J. 2LT Boyette, Travis L. 2LT Eaton-Williams, Shane A. . * 2LT Edelstein, Kimberly A. 2LT Goodfellow, Gregory D. 2LT Goodwin, Alec H. 2LT Guy, Joseph A. 1LT Haberly, Nicholas P. 2LT Hart, Allison M. 1LT Imboywa, Glenn M. 2LT Johnson, Austin J. 2LT Lewis, Amber R. 2LT Lightsey, Andrew 2LT Perezrodriguez, Christopher S. 2LT Purewal, Rusman S. 2LT Roderick, David E. 1LT Romig, Bradley S. 2LT Schmidt, Daniel J. 2LT Sensenig, Patrick D. 2LT Severs, Amy E. 2LT Stoddard, Skylar K. 2LT Tschirhart, Allen E. 2LT Young, Hayden E.
Warrant Officers
WO1 Abuso, Adam P. – DG * WO1 Casey, Anthony M. – HG WO1 Garber, Wesley R. – HG WO1 Gilbertson, Andrew J. – HG WO1 Jackson, Nathaniel T. – HG WO1 Allen, Nicholas WO1 Balint, Andrew V.* WO1 Burton, Charlie G. WO1 Butler, Christopher A. WO1 Cassell, Christopher S. WO1 Chang, Han K. WO1 Garner, Noah T. WO1 Kalmon, Cameron R. WO1 Lopez, Antonio M. WO1 Moore, Tyler L. WO1 Mulholland, James V. WO1 Pourciau, Zachary W. WO1 Sitaula, Rajiv WO1 St. Onge, Jordan D. WO1 VanWinkle, Ryan D. WO1 Wehr, Christopher J. WO1 Yankowiak, Ryan D. WO1 Yates, Rickey C.
48 Officers, April 12
Commissioned Officers LT Hand, Jonathan – DG LT Grisel, Benjamin – HG LT Harris, Kevin – HG LT Dady, Aaron CPT Hughes, Jessica LT McCormick, Riley LT Molina, Edwardo LT Neilan, Michael, CPT Oliver, Adrienne LT Porter, Laura-Rose LT White, Shelby LT Worth, Nicholas LT Yu, James
Warrant Officers
CW2 Alejandro, John Paul WO1 Vanderlugt, Ryan – DG WO1 Countryman, Brandon – HG WO1 Swanger, James – HG
WO1 Fox, Christopher WO1 Gordon, Stephen WO1 Hill, Zackery WO1 Hinz, Trey WO1 Hopson, Kevin WO1 Kapacziewski, Randy WO1 Kuhn, Jaric WO1 Lamping, James* WO1 Lane, Andre WO1 Linn, Joshua WO1 Lorandeau, Eugene WO1 Lucero, Michelle WO1 Madar, Ryan* WO1 Meyers, Jacob WO1 Myers, Benjamin WO1 Neely, Donovan* WO1 Perez, Brian WO1 Rexus, Jacob CW2 Ribeiro, Kyle WO1 Richardson, Rickey WO1 Roberts, John WO1 Rybolt, Ryan WO1 Schill, Lucas WO1 Stelluto, Anthony WO1 Taber, Aaron WO1 Toler, Christopher WO1 Torres, Narciso* WO1 Triana, Michael WO1 Vance, Michael WO1 Willis, Randy WO1 Winclechter, Cody*
FSXXI-29 MAR.
FSXXI-12 APR.
37 Officers, April 26
Commissioned Officers 2LT Rivera, Forrest – DG 2LT Bell, Shane – HG 2LT Cattell, Micha – HG 2LT Archibeque, Chase 2LT Ayala, Emmanuel 2LT Carpenter, Doyle 2LT Dorff, Jeremy 2LT Gehne, Aaron 2LT Holton, Marcus 2LT Kelly, Ryan 2LT Leveillee, Todd 2LT Lewis, Timothy 2LT O’Malley, Gregory 2LT Padilla, Ralph 2LT Saleck, Sarah 2LT Wetlesen, Samuel 1LT Wilhelm, Weston 1LT Williams, Robert
FSXXI-26 APR.
Warrant Officers
WO1 Thompson, Colby – DG WO1 Doutrich, Andrew – HG* WO1 Finlay, Ray – HG WO1 Hodges, Justin – HG WO1 Acs, Gregory WO1 Appell, Robert* WO1 Clark, Joseph WO1 Dudley, Keean WO1 Gilmer, Steven WO1 Gonzalez, Daniel WO1 Holland, Noah WO1 Holliday, Brandon WO1 Howard, Carter WO1 Lopez, Michael* WO1 McCallister, Jeremy WO1 Nabor, Julius WO1 Norsesian, Brandon WO1 Rowe, Jospeh WO1 Zdunich, Zachary
38 Officers, May 10
Commissioned Officers 2LT Driscoll, Michael – DG 2LT Bussmann, Robert – HG 2LT Rath, Brian – HG 2LT Castro, Napu 2LT Dye, Marty
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
ALL PHOTOS U.S. ARMY PHOTO, FORT RUCKER PUBLIC AFFAIRS
AAAA congratulates the following officers graduating from Flight School XXI at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.
FSXXI-10 MAY 2LT Hammond, Kevaughn 2LT Johnson, Zachary CPT Johnston, Paul 2LT Newlin, James 2LT Norvell, Jimmy 2LT Raimondi, Michael 2LT Raub, Tristan 2LT Turner, Charles 2LT Walby, Lee 2LT Wallace, Peter 1LT Wilmoth, Hobert
Warrant Officers
WO1 Dickinson, Robert – DG
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WO1 Haase, Zachary – HG* WO1 Murray, Douglas – HG WO1 Barnett, Alex WO1 Bryant, Christopher WO1 Caldwell, Christopher WO1 Fischer, Rachel WO1 Fuentes, Jesus WO1 Fussner, Nicholas WO1 Hite, Forrest* WO1 Hudgens, Brenton WO1 Leblanc, Vincent WO1 Minijarez, Matthew WO1 Munoz, Anthony
WO1 Pardo-Rivera, Felix WO1 Ramos, Marie WO1 Richardson, Nicole* WO1 Shorter, Peter WO1 Stout, David WO1 Whittington, Justin WO1 Yancey, Taylor WO1 Younger, Equarain DG = Distinguished Graduate HG = Honor Graduate * = AAAA Member
June 30, 2018
AAAA People On The Move PV2 Daniel Paul Eichler PV2 Colton Jett Cude PFC Trevor Wade Daugherty PV2 Jeremiah T.Davenport SPC Nathan Ray Eagle, Jr. SPC Pedro Morales SPC Madeleine A. Searles AAAA congratulates the PV2 Savanna Gayle Stewart following Army graduates of the Class 017-18 indicated Advanced Individual PV2 Luis Fernandezgomez – DG Training (AIT) courses at the PV2 Shadow Rockwell Eden 128th Aviation Brigade, Joint PV2 Kevin Christopher Eller Base Langley-Eustis, VA and PV2 Seth Jared Fernandez the U.S. Army Aviation Center PV2 Jonathan Wayne Fields of Excellence, Ft. Rucker, AL. SPC Wesley James Finch SGT Robert Alan Matheney, Jr. AH-64 Attack PV2 Jonathan Lane Newman Helicopter Repairer SPC Scott Aaron Newman (15R) SSG Sean Toomer Pyne Class 006-18 SPC Austin Roberto Tamplet SPC Aphinon Niamnate – DG SPC Grayson Snowden Wilt PV2 Austin Franklin Grizzle Class 018-18 PV2 Joshua Saul Baum SPC Christian T. Nixon – DG SPC Danielle Lynn Duke PFC Jonathan Peter Gray PV2 Cameron John Fisher PV2 Justin A.Humphrey PV2 Ryan Michael Goodwin SGT Christopher Johanson PV2 Izaiah Michel PFC Daniel Lee Kovitz PV2 Cody James Rausch PV2 Ryan Tandy Maibauer PV2 Vincent Andrew Rojas PV2 Christopher E. Morgan Class 007-18 SGT Timothy B. Reynolds PV2 Cory James Amaral – DG PV2 Nicholas Ryan Shea PV2 Austin Lee Ackley SGT Dena Page Thompson PV2 Michael Dean Aebel Class 019-18 PV2 Jacob Hunter Allen PV2 Amber Christine Garcia PV2 Heather Ann Englehart SFC Jan Krolak CPL Geffrey Robert Flynn PV2 Savanna Gayle Stewart SPC Aaron Scott Piotrowski Class 020-18 PV2 Jeffrey Reid Parkins PFC John H. Johnson – DG PV2 Nicholas Clayton Rogers SGT William Armas Landau PV2 Diego Salasray PFC Joshua Wayne Eaton PV2 Orlando C. Gabriel UH-60 Helicopter PFC Christopher B. Good Repairer (15T) PV2 Sy Quintin Phelps Class 013-18 PV2 Marcos Rodriguez PV2 Benton Luke Murray – DG PFC Trevor James Sherriff PV2 Tony Ray Adams, Jr. PV2 Sheyenne Daniel Smith PV2 Pedro Cortez SPC Steven Selden Stokoe PV2 Noah Cleet Cox PV2 Blake Tylor Worstell PV2 Jace Guy Hamilton PV2 John Stephen Lindsay CH-47 Medium PV2 Nathan Marshall Lowber Helicopter Repairer PFC Jeffrey Wane Makin, Jr. (15U) PV2 Cody Laine McAuliffe Class 005-18 PFC Luis Anthony Garcia Price PV2 Jacob L. B. Merry – DG PV2 Samuel Edward Price PV2 Patrick Alex Christian PV2 Levi Justice Probus PV2 Bradley John Coburn Class 014-18 PV2 Andrew Brandon Cordova PV2 Aaron David Michel – DG PV2 Shamus Liam Geel PV2 Jonathan Patrick Abresch SPC Dominic Anthony Hess PFC Kyle Thomas Baker SPC Ryan Lee Houser PV2 William Joseph Columbia SPC Md Naimul Huda PFC Brendan Allen Colvin SPC Bartholomew J. Lindberg PV2 Matao Sharif Davis PV2 Zachary Christian Neal PV2 Austin Lee Gutherman PV2 Jackson Gerard Wolsh PFC Alanmichael W.Kryszak Class 006-18 PFC Ethan Randall Lafferty PFC Lindsey Blair Keller – DG SPC Justin Alen Myers PV2 Thomas McCoy Andler SPC Daniel Cornelis Senten PV2 Estavan Javier Carreon Class 015-18 PV2 Frank Anthony Chavez PV2 Shane M.Palitza – DG PV2 Dylan Lee Gutierrez PV2 Douglas Ryan Hansche PFC Robert Aaron Harting SPC Alexander Paul Lenard PV2 Abigael Cherotich Koskey SPC David Charles McIlvain PFC Colin James Louvar PV2 Jacob Rodriguez PV2 Casey Orin McCartney PV2 Dylan Thomas Sandifer PV2 David Michael Pressel PV2 Justin Nicholas Snell SPC Ronald Michael Teller III PFC Jared Bryan Turner SPC Curtis Akwasi Williams PV2 Hunter Mathew Tuten PV2 Michael A.Vanvoorhis Aircraft Powerplant SPC Andrew Carl Wass Repairer (15B) PFC Tyler Matthew White Class 003-18 Class 016-18 PV2 Austin J. Conroy – DG PFC Kaleohano K. Castaneda – DG PV2 Yves Isiah Bottex PFC Kendall Rashleigh Austrie PV2 Angelo Kevin Colbert PV2 Juan Adrian Calvillo PV2 Jacob Ryan Fisher SPC David Michael Carmestro PV2 Eric Bradley Gleason
ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING (AIT) GRADUATIONS
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
PV2 Justin Farris Isaacs SPC Philip Edward Johns PV2 Lucas Scott Klein PV2 Christopher John Mayne PV2 Jonathan Jose Olivares PV2 Alfredo Riveraalcazar PV2 Gary Michale Walker PV2 Alex Hayden Waugh PV2 Austin Craig Zahara
Aircraft Powertrain Repairer (15D)
Class 002-18 PV2 Tanner Lee Brown – DG SPC Luis Daniel Arroyo Diaz PV2 Zachary J. Bernardson PFC Ronald R. Blanding Jr. PV2 Ian Patrick Brodbeck PV2 Billie Lee Cox PV2 Nicolas Sank Dean PV2 Kyle Steven Decena PV2 John W. R. Dubberke PV2 Sterling Carlyle Farmer PV2 Seth Michael Fietz PV2 Nicholas Christopher Ford PV2 Lauren Jehlani Gibson PV2 Justin Louis Glorioso PV2 Jonathan Gutierrezferro Class 502-18 PV2 Joseph E. Melgar – DG PV2 Scotty Russell Ieppert PV2 Cristian Daniel Jaramillo PV2 Yu Chang Jun PV2 Conner Brian Locke PV2 Samuel Colten Mosby PV2 Ethan Edward Moser PV2 Mason Lynn Oaks PV2 Matthew Dean Olson PV2 Jhorden Dshawn Price PV2 Vance Steven Ruebel PV2 Antonio Salazar Santos SPC Kristopher Luis Sanchez SPC Christopher Alex Spires PV2 John Daniel Taylor
Aircraft Electrician (15F)
Class 003-18 PFC Timothy P. Earls – DG PV2 Zackariath Andrew Glenn PV2 Aaron Blake Gibson PFC Ryan Michael Miller PV2 Samuel Ray Osborn PV2 Chance Lee Schmitt PV2 Louis Aniel Van Staden Class 004-18 PFC Nelson W. Danyomah SPC Rogelio Duran SPC Jered Edward Moran PV2 Parker Robert Owings PV2 Eric Anthony Powell PV2 Hunter Scot Terrell SPC Christian A. Tuesca PV2 James Joseph West
PV2 Ryan Casey Bates PV2 Isaac Ahren Beck PV2 Cody Joshua Bottoms PV2 Robert K.Fernandez Jr. SPC Agyapong Oduro-Kwarteng PV2 Jim Maag Robertson PV2 Akino Russaine Rose PV2 Christopher L. Serrano PV2 Thiago Faria Lino Silva PV2 Michael J.Smith PFC Robert Edward Wade PV2 Trevor Michael Walker PFC Austin James Wells
Aircraft Pneudraulics Repairer (15H)
Class 003-18 PV2 Steven E. Regaliza – DG PV2 Tanner Bryce Roselle PV2 Kevin James Williams PFC Abel Cervantes PFC Joseph Christian Ferrara PFC Evan Blake Hamilton PV2 Weston R. Larue-Hargrove PFC David Louis O’Neal PV2 Marissa Gabriela Parra PFC Jose De Jesus Romero PFC Marco De Santiago Sr.
Avionics Mechanic (15N)
Class 021-17 PV2 Michelle R. Battle – DG PV2 Jesse James L. Eder PV2 Alek Frosty Forrest PV2 Jasmine T. S. Hankins PV2 Gabriella Mae Wright Class 022-17 SGT Jeffery Brandon Fiske * PV2 Joel Garcia PV2 Justin Curtis Neth PV2 Zachery Philip Packer PV2 Kamarei R.Taylor PV2 Quartavious D. Williams Class 504-17 PFC Phillip F. Araujo PFC Thomas Daniel Cavner PV2 Stephen M. Enyart PV2 Cody M. Wheelington
Aviation Operations Specialist (15P)
Class 18-009P PVTJasmine Jackson – DHG PFC Madison Patchett – HG SPC Adrian Batista SPC Francisco Jeremias PFC Alynna Marin PV2 Devin Richardson PV2 Monte Roland PV2 Nicole Romo PV2 Robert Steadman PV2 Darryl Williams PVT Makel Blake PVT Devon Dickeson PVT Matthew Greco Aircraft Structural PVT Kenneth Robinson Repairer (15G) Class 18-010P Class 002-18 PFC Austin Kight – DHG SPC Eric D. Lebarron – DG PV2 Lewis Caldwell – HG PV2 Ryan Andrew Baranski SPC Jiruch Carr PV2 Colby Charles Cochran SPC De’atray Hawkins PV2 Kyle Dean Detrick PFC Cynthia Hernandez PV2 Antonio Duane Dudley PV2 Manuel Cisneros PV2 Austin Thomas Guidry Honor Graduate PV2 Cole Alexander Harlow PV2 James Dean PV2 Tyler James Schade PV2 Justin Rudolph PV2 Colin S. Simonsgaard PV2 Jeffery Wallace Thompson PV2 Anthony Santiago PFC River Glenn Underwood PV2 Colton Wilmot PVT John Childs PV2 Marco B. L. Vazquez PVT Quentin Childs PV2 Tyler Lynn Voss Class 18-011P SPC Matthew Henry Wajda PV2 Everett Darrow – DHG Class 502-18 PV2 Ramiro Fonseca – HG PFC Quade Alan Tate – DG SPC Jaclyn Youngs PV2 Israel Alba PV2 Able Castro PV2 Joshua Caleb Bailey
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PV2 Austin Lowery PV2 Alexus Chatman PV2 Jarett Morella PVT Marcus Brown PVT Adrian C.Sanchez PVT Nickolas Limonta PVT Ian Ramirez PVT Khalil Wallace Class 18-012P PFC Sophia Harris PFC Makylee Huber PV2 Yanique Lewis PV2 Paris Mallory PV2 Tovar-Rodriguez Sixto PVT Breon Adams PVT Hunter Bruce PVT Nickolaus Edwards PVT Jace Kurta PVT Ayanna Maddox PVT Nazir Watson PVT Arvester Williams Class 18-013P PFC Antonio Albritton PFC Thomas Smith PV2 Samantha Crecelius PV2 Isaac Glanton PV2 Maya Hockaday PV2 Alycia Thomas PV2 Mercedes Castaneda PVT Tyler Howard PVT Thomas Mitchell Class 18-014P PVT Alex Sao– DHG SPC Dakota Blackmon SPC Matthew Lynch SPC Katyerien Wright PV2 Luis CuellarOrtiz PV2 Derek Elliott PV2 Axel Nievescortes PVT Joem RodriguezSantiago Class 18-015P PFC Miranda Knickerbocker–DHG PFC Cole Hunter PFC Jeremy Newman PFC Olivia Savino PV2 Tyjuan Gaddy PV2 Celestino Mainardi PV2 Kobe Warren PVT Sydney Lasley PVT David Miller
Air Traffic Control Operators (15Q)
Class 17-033Q PFC Grant Byelich – DHG SGT Carlos Carter SPC Mikel Fernandezhoyle PV2 Mitchell Brewer PV2 Joevanni Diaz PV2 Matthew Shanahan PVT Kevin Leggett PVT David Madigan PVT Logan Oxley PVT Dylan Rose PVT Donovan Soto Class 17-034Q PVT Christian Edwards – DHG SPC Eboni Greene PV2 Matthew Jester PV2 Dyllon Miller PV2 Joel Sanchez PVT Shawn Calverley PVT John Reilly Class 18-001Q CPLJeffrey Singles SPC David Patton PFC Hannah Sax PV2 Joshua Dewhirst PV2 Stormie Jones PV2 Devon Siess PV2 Rose Smith PVT Kale Czerwonka PVT Maya Preciado Class 18-002Q SPC Justin Beck SPC Daniel Bergum
SPC Charlie Russell PFC Austin Winicker PV2 Case Detwiller PV2 Jacob Bailey PV2 Travis Peterson PV2 Edward Swinson PV2 Estrella Uribe PVT Tiffany Bogle Class 18-501Q PV2 William Courtney PV2 Jayden Draughn PV2 Jacob Jackson PV2 Evan Sanford PV2 Austin Skaggs PV2Landon Welling Class 18-003Q SPC William Hendrix PFCJacie Fontenot PV2 Bryan Agbanlog PV2 Brandon Branham PV2 Cinnamon Derrick PV2 Nijae Jackson PV2 Hannah Perlow PV2 Abigail Puente PV2 Alexandria Tungpalan Class 18-502Q SPCDouglas McIntosh PVTMalikCobian Mas PVT Shayne Hurley PVT John Nunez PVT Hunter Terrell PVT Cameron Torres Class 18-004Q PFC Timothy Roberson – DHG SGT Bradley Nealy SGT Aaron Underwood SPC Michael Kemp PV2 Kyle Helland PV2 Susann Orozco PV2 Judith Portales PV2 Brennan Wamble PV2 Seth Watson PV2 Jeremy Younger PVT Mason Fraley PVT Brandon Henson
AH-64D Armament/ Electrical/Avionics Repairer (15Y)
Class 001-18 PV2 Kody A.Brinkman – DG PV2 Michael Jacobi Alexander PV2 Noah Robert Arcilise PV2 Donald Joseph Bliss PV2 Joshua Thomas Bradley PV2 Caitlyn Marie Chadwick PV2 Nathan Thomas Clark SPC Jephter Agyei Dankwa PV2 Garrett Mykle Dearing PFC Maverick T. Fitzback PV2 Lawrence E. Haggerty Jr. PV2 Makayla L. McPherson Class 002-18 PV2 Hunter D.Hostetler PFC Kevin Tin Huynh PV2 Terron Z. Ledgerwood PV2 Brandon J.D. Lee PV2 Matthew Murphy PV2 Nathaniel A. Naeole PV2 Christopher Tyler Poole PV2 Dakota M. R. Reopelle Class 501-18 PV2 Wyatt D.Warfe – DG PV2 Evan Bradley Dubois PV2 Raymond Meno Santos PV2 Eric Lee Snyder PV2 Ian Micah Sykes PV2 Donald Ray Wesley Jr. PV2 Anthony Brice Woods DHG – Distinguished Honor Graduate DG – Distinguished Graduate HG – Honor Graduate * = AAAA Member
June 30,2018
AAAA
NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u
People On The Move UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS (UAS) GRADUATIONS Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Warrant Officer Technician Course
AAAA congratulates the following Army graduates of the Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Warrant Officer Technician Course, MOS 150U, at Fort Huachuca, AZ.
PVT Dustin R. Cloer PVT Austin N. Jennings 28 Graduates, 20 April SPC Devin C. Sullivan – DHG SPC Zachary G. Long – HG SGT Michael P. Brzezinski SGT Robert I. Hernandez SPC Osvaldo M. Gierbolini SPC Ramiro Vasquez PFC Jacob R. Brantley PFC Albert Heredia PV2 Kenneth A. Ball PV2 Adam R. Dancy PV2 John Jr Faleiva PV2 John A. George PV2 Parker Harville PV2 Christopher A. Hepfinger PV2 Tevin L. Hernandez PV2 Matthew D. Krenik PV2 Dezmar V. Martin PV2 Kevin F. Meiers PV2 Trevor L. Meyer PV2 Zackary N. Mlika PV2 Brendan M. Reiss PV2 Keno Selvera PV2 John L. Shoun PV2 Cole A. Tschirhart PV2 Clarence Zook PVT Nathaniel E. Detraz PVT Dustin R. Long PVT Garrett M. Vest
PV2 Gerard. De Jesus-Aponte PV2 Tommy J. Estes PV2 Dillon C. Ewer PV2 Kelvin J. Hunter PV2 Matthew D. Kral PV2 Jarred R. Mitchell PV2 Cody L. Rouse PV2 Zachary F. Rukavina PV2 Jerome F. Smith PV2 Emanuel I. Solano PV2 Tyler W. Soodek PV2 Triston M. Spears-Imholte PV2 Daniel E. Tantlinger PV2 Michael J. Tellez PVT Bailey R. Clement PVT Walter A. Grubbs PVT OnixRodriguez-Quinones PVT Zachary L. Williams
PV2 John R. Page PV2 Roberto T. Tenorio PV2 Jonathan S. Thacker PV2 Adam B. Tobar PV2 Robert A. Vos PVT Jordan Cosse PVT Steven M. Day PVT Myles I. Merwin PVT Hunter A. Murray PVT Adam R. Naddell PVT David A. Ortiz PVT Dylan R. Padgett PVT Evelyn Pina PVT Trae J. Rechsteiner PVT Efren Salas PVT Andres A. Tamez
42 Graduates, 17 April SPC Louis J. Vito III – DHG 9 Graduates, 18 May UAS OPERATOR SGT Erwin D. Manriquez – HG WO1 Sean Michael S. Sison AAAA congratulates the SGT Jeremy B. Bates – DHG following Army graduates of the SGT Justin A. Conway WO1 William T. Ring – HG Unmanned Aircraft Systems SGT Joshua D. Howe CW2 Dustin M. Bunkley Operator Course, MOS 15W, at SPC Isaac M. Bolanos WO1 Nicholas C. Chase Fort Huachuca, AZ. SPC Clinton M. Guenther JR. WO1 Jonathan K. Martin SPC Caleb T. Guest WO1 David A. Mesa Shadow UAS Operator SPC Christopher T. Reed WO1 Edwin Ortiz Course SPC Curtis A. Stout WO1 Andrew W. Silver * 32 Graduates, 20 March SPC Patrick S. Wimberly WO1 Brent A. Unglesbee PVT Austin C. Smith – DHG PFC Brigham H. Albertson PVT Adrian S. La Rue – HG PFC Markus O. Ashley UAS REPAIRER SGT Anthony R. White PFC Timothy A. Bell AAAA congratulates the SPC Naima Garcia PFC Jackson S. Jones following Army graduates of the SPC Brian E. Lawrence PFC Sofia E. Llambias 29 Graduates, 10 May Unmanned Aircraft Systems PFC Brady A. Malecha Repairer Course, MOS 15E, at SGT Josean Marin-Negron – DHG SPC Jonathan L. Major SPC Wesley C. Wilson PFC Patrick A. Maline SPC Mason B. Buckler Fort Huachuca, AZ. PFC Brenden A. Powell PFC Cody L. Small SPC Kyle J. Gann PFC Chelsea L. Smith PFC William M. Thomas Shadow UAS Repairer PFC Ryan T. Lam PFC Jason I. Wimberly PV2 Adam M. Asher PV2 Ziggy A. Adkins Course PV2 Ammarae Broncheau PV2 Samson A. Brown PV2 Logan G. Allard PV2 Carson T. Carter PV2 Remy T. Chilcote PV2 Coleton R. Busby 12 Graduates, 21 March PV2 Dylan R. Hagan PV2 Johnathan C. Condrey Jr. SPC Eulogio Cardona-Sanchez PV2 Ryan Coats PV2 Dejon B. Jackson PV2 Derek L. Deppermann PV2 Brady J. Cook SPC Jonathan M. Gibbs PV2 Alexander H. Landa PV2 Adrianna R. Edwards PV2 Myer D. Davis SPC Hector M. Mendez PV2 Tevita T. Latu PV2 Don P. Enriquez PV2 Trenton H. Davis PFC Nicholas J. Payne PFC John C. Wallace PV2 Isaiah Z. McKay PV2 Manuel G. Monge-Grajeda PV2 Zachary T. Pallay PV2 Joe D. Ramos PV2 Moises I. Valdes PVT Courtney C. Anaeki PVT Dillen J. Blanton
PV2 Elijah C. Garcilaso PV2 Jacob A. Gibs PV2 Alim H. Jallo-Amboria PV2 Dresden W. Little PV2 Caitlin L. McHorney PV2 Dvonta J. Purvis PV2 Jack J. Ryan PV2 Connor M. Shelley PV2 Travis A. Slentz PV2 Jeremy D. Stoker PV2 Ariel M. White PV2 Shane P. Zweifel PVT Eric G. Batista PVT Nathanael J. Blocher PVT Maria N. Romo 36 Graduates, 15 May SGT Robert M. Rice – DHG SPC Justin C. Lambert – HG SGT Bryan R. Lahti SPC Nicholas K. Collins SPC Bradley A. Wellborn PFC Brandon C. Anderson PFC Elijah O. Bair PFC Zacary C. Edwards PFC Josiah C. Neal PFC Cory A. Wilson PV2 Thomas A. Billian PV2 Jake L. Brock PV2 Aric D. Brown PV2 Celeste L. Brown PV2 Adolfo Cruz PV2 Exavier A. Demeyere PV2 Jahcortli N. Douglas PV2 Leya R. Gabaree PV2 Hanna E. Hall PV2 Gary M. Halverson PV2 Gunnar T. Hampton PV2 Maverick A. Hoopaugh PV2 Darren T. Lawn PV2 Xavier A. Leclair PV2 Kenneth W. Mertsch PV2 Kameron J. Miles PV2 Tyler J. Riggs PV2 Tomas Rodriguez
PV2 Jonathan N. Spencer PV2 Tyler W. Thompson PV2 Hunter J. Urwin PVT Isiah A. Biagas PVT William C. Dorrance PVT Tyson L. Froemke PVT Austin J. Garner PVT Pedro J. Lopes
Gray Eagle UAS Operator Course
25 Graduates, 27 Mar SPC Katie M. Wilson – DHG PV2 Wylie J. Harrison – HG SSG Jeremy R. Jarvis SPC Anthony G. Schmidt SPC Gary J. Shaw SPC Gregory R. Vaillancourt SPC Cesar R. Villar SPC Zachary D. Waki PFC Travis A. Flatt PFC Darren J. Holley PFC Marcus X. Malave PFC Norman M. Ren PFC Timothy J. Smith PV2 Logan D. Bucher PV2 Keyonna G. Garfine PV2 Thomas N. Graham PV2 Jose P. Guerrero PV2 Noah D. Latham PV2 Michael R. Mann-Lee PV2 Brandon E. Peairs PV2 Shadow M. Periera PV2 Gunnar J. Rieck PV2 Alex H. Ruiz PV2 Mason K. Schuler PV2 Nickolas R. Stringer DHG – Distinguished Honor Graduate DG – Distinguished Graduate HG – Honor Graduate * = AAAA Member
27 Graduates, 05 April SPC Anthony J. Grosso – DHG PFC Philip A. Gigliotti – HG SPC Andrew J. Musselman SPC Matthew J. Richmond SPC Anthony T. Sam PFC Christian A. Contreras PFC George A. Estorga PV2 Matthew T. Baldwin PV2 Carlos D. Bartolo-Pina PV2 Alexis M. Carson PV2 Israel X. Chavez PV2 Chandler C. Constant PV2 Christopher L. Dozier PV2 Nicholis R. Golas PV2 Nadia Jones PV2 Shane A. King PV2 Elijah C. Marlow PV2 Orien L. Monterrosa PV2 Xavier T. Montgomery PV2 Adam J. Penix PV2 Corey L. West PV2 Owen K. Westphal PVT Kaden M. Boren PVT Edgar Bustillos-Hernandez PVT Ethan W. Chamberlin
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
77
June 30, 2018
Art’s
Attic
By Mark Albertson
Art’s Attic is a look back each issue at 25 and 50 years ago to see what was going on in ARMY AVIATION Magazine. Art Kesten is our founder and first publisher from 1953 to 1987. He is also the founder of the AAAA in 1957 and served as its Executive Vice President. Each month contributing editor Mark Albertson will select a few key items from each historic issue. The cartoon, right, was created back in 1953 by LT Joe Gayhart, a friend of Art’s and an Army Aviator, showing the chaos of his apartment-office in New York City where it all began.
25 Years Ago
50 Years Ago
Simula, Inc.
1st Aviation Brigade
June 30, 1993
June 30, 1968
Simula, Inc., was awarded a contract, some $6 million, for crashworthy seating systems for the UH-60 Black Hawk. Per the contract, Simula must deliver 388 energy-absorbing crew seats, with delivery commencing in late 1993, fulfilling a three-year order.
Apaches and CAS
LTG Ronald H. Griffith, in a “Guest Editorial: The 1st Armored Division in Desert Storm,” observed: “At the risk of raising controversy, I would offer the observation that Close
Long Bien, South Vietnam, May 25, 1968. General Cao Van Vien, affixes a streamer representing the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm to the colors of the 1st Brigade. During 1967, 1st Brigade airlifted more than 5,000,000 men, in 2,900,000 sorties and flew more than 1,200,000 hours. The brigade logged 10,556 VC killed and destroyed 10,000 supply sampans and 10,400 enemy structures and fortifications.
55 Hour Turn Around
Air Support, as we have known it, is no longer viable. In the high tempo, armored conflict that we fought in Iraq, with a fairly dangerous air defense threat, the Air Force would not come lower than 10,000 feet to deliver ordnance. “Under these conditions, we could not call for the CAS close to our own forces. Consequently, the Apaches took on what might be described as CAS, and the A-10s and other Air Force assets operated at intermediate depths, (15-30 kilometers farther in front of the division). Perhaps future operations will see the Air Force operate in an area beyond current CAS and short of Battlefield Air Interdiction (BAI).”
Presentation
The Citadel, Charleston, SC, MG John D. Robinson (left), Branch Chief and Commanding General, U.S. Army Aviation Center and Fort Rucker, AL., presents Cadet John W. Jones with the Citadel Chapter’s Aviation Soldier of the Year Award. ARMY AVIATION Magazine
78
A forklift hoists helicopter engines from ARADMAC up into a C-141 from Military Air Command. A shuttle service, which started in June, makes three such trips to Vietnam per week, delivering new engines and bringing stateside power plants slated for service. The turnaround time is 55 hours.
1968 International Science Fair
The 19th International Science Fair was held at Coba Hall, Detroit, Michigan, May 12-18. Four youngsters with talents in science, each received $100 cash awards from AAAA, in addition to an engraved plaque. One of the recipients was Mr. Paul B. Re, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, for his project, High Speed Interacting Jets. Other recipients were: Mr. Neil F. Martin, Silver Spring, Maryland; Mr. Peter Tormquist, Lidingo, Sweden and Mr. Larry F. Lewis, Gadsen, Alabama. June 30. 2018
Army Aviation
Hall of Fame Chief Warrant Officer Four Clifton Phillip Wolcott Army Aviation Hall of Fame 1995 Induction The Army Aviation Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Army Aviation Association of America, Inc., recognizes those individuals who have made an outstanding c ontribution to Army Aviation.
The actual Hall of Fame is located in the Army Aviation Museum, Fort Rucker, Ala.
The deadline for nominations for the 2020 induction is June 1, 2019
Contact the AAAA National Office for details and nomination forms at (203) 268-2450 or visit www.quad-a.org
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
The Tactical and Technical contributions of CW4 Clifton P. Wolcott to Army Aviation of the future cannot be overstated. However, the spirit of Army Aviation, present and future is what CW4 Wolcott really embodied, a spirit of mission accomplishment based on sound principles coupled with valor. Enlisting in the Army in 1976 at the age of 19 he received his wings in 1980 and was assigned to the 229th Attack Helicopter Battalion. Already his personal courage, which he would display in numerous occasions later in his career, was evident when he was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for saving the life of his co-pilot in an AH-1 crash. In 1984, he was selected for Task Force 160 where he served as an MH-60 SOF Assault IP. His exceptional grasp of both the mission requirement and the equipment available led to his innovative use of night vision goggles and the development of an SOP for overwater operations. CW4 Wolcott’s first combat operational experience was during PRIME CHANCE in 1987-89. His overwater techniques and tactics were adopted by all the Army Aviation units involved. In 1989, he again saw combat as a flight leader responsible for combat assaults during JUST CAUSE. In addition to his duties as flight lead and unit IP, he became the unit’s only gunnery standardization IP for the new MH-60 Defensive Armed Penetrator (DAP). As such, he trained and evaluated the initial aircrew in the execution of armed helicopter operations. The aircraft was first deployed during DESERT STORM in 1991 and received its baptism of fire during deep penetrations into the Iraqi desert. These clandestine missions are still classified but the success of the effort was testimony to the planning and training of which CW4 Wolcott was such a critical part. He was, as flight lead, awarded the Silver Star for his heroism and later recognized as the Special Operations Aviator of the Year for his Technical and Tactical contributions. CW4 Wolcott became the battalion standardization IP in 1992 while also serving as the primary joint mission planner for several classified contingency plans. In August, 1993 he deployed to Somalia with “Joint Task Force Ranger”. His superb grasp of the tactical situation enabled ground commanders to maximize the use of aviation support. On 3 October 1993, while leading a multiaircraft flight on the assault of an objective in downtown Mogadishu, his aircraft was struck by an RPG. As his aircraft fell to the ground CW4 Wolcott skillfully maintained what control he could and issued critical instructions to those aboard thus helping to ensure their survival. CW4 Wolcott died as a result of that action and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his gallantry. CW4 Wolcott’s accomplishments have significantly contributed to the advancement of Army Aviation and to its place in the force of the future. 79
June 30, 2018
Readiness is the metric that matters. Always ready. Never stop improving. We know what it takes to fly hot and high because we’ve powered the U.S. Army’s Apache and Black Hawk missions since 1979. Experience has inspired our future. We are ready. GET901.com
ARMY AVIATION Magazine
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June 30, 2018
