Sustainer - June 2012

June2012

Sustainer
Published in the interest of Joint Sustainment Command - Afghanistan Soldiers and their Families

Sustainers take charge
Page 6

Sustainers receive combat patches
Page 9

Volume1 Sustainer June2012

On the inside ... From the editor:
Commander’s Corner Welcome to the first edition of Sustainer mag-
azine - a monthly publication by the Joint Sustain-
Page 3 ment Command - Afghanistan Public Affairs Office.

The Chaplain’s Office This magazine is for you - Soldiers and Fami-
Page 3 lies of the JSC-A. We’d like to get your feedback on
the content and anything you’d like to see in future
The Leader’s Book issues, so send me an e-mail, or write on our Face-
Page 4 book wall (www.facebook.com/3dESC).

3d ESC Soldiers deploy While you are taking a few minutes to read
this letter, I’d like to discuss an important topic to
Page 5 Soldiers and their Families: voting.

Sustainers take charge As American citizens, we have the right to
Page 6 elect our representatives and leaders. As Soldiers, we
fight to defend that right.
Navy customs support Army This year is a major election year, and we all
Page 8 need to take the time to educate ourselves on the
Kandahar celebrates AAPI candidates and vote.

Page 9 If you need help, or don’t know where to start,
head on over to the Federal Voting Assistance Pro-
“Combat patches” for all gram website (www.fvap.gov) to get started.
Page 9
If you still need help, feel free to contact me at
Sustainers tour water plant robert.j.strain.mil@mail.mil, and I can help you out.
Page 10 Sgt. 1st Class Rob Strain
233rd tackles new mission Sustainer Editor

Page 11
Important retention chagnes
Page 12
And much more ...

The Sustainer magazine is an authorized publication for members of the DOD.
Contents of Sustainer are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by,
the U.S. Government or the Department of the Army. The editorial content of this
publication is the responsibility of the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)
Public Affairs Office.

Brig. Gen. Kristin French, Comanding General, 3d ESC

Maj. Jim Bono, Public Affairs Officer

Sgt. 1st Class Rob Strain, Sustainer Editor

Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin, Sustainer Staff Writer

Contributing Writers:
Jacquelene Van Pool, Master Sgt. Adam Eckstein, Sgt. Ken Scar, Sgt. Chris
Huddleston

The Sustainer staff can be reached by email at robert.j.strain.mil@mail.mil, by
phone: (502) 624-8523, or by mail to 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary),
ATTN: PAO, 1747 Old Ironsides Ave, Fort Knox, KY 40121.

On the cover: Captain Matthew Sinor, an international and operational law attorney with the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), receives his
combat patch signifying past or active participation in wartime service, from Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French, the 3d ESC’s commanding general, during
a ceremony at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan on May 17. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin)

Page 2


Commander’s Corner - Afghanistan
Joint Sustainment Command
Brig. Gen. Kristin French
Sustainer Families and friends, stan. We have Soldiers deployed
in all regions of the country and
I am excited to officially are supporting the warfighter
kick off the inaugural issue of throughout Afghanistan. As we
Joint Sustainment Command – highlight mission and personnel
Afghanistan’s Sustainer magazine. in this magazine, we hope it will
Since arriving at Kandahar Air give you insight into the difficult
Field, or KAF, in early/mid-April, logistics and support challenges
all of our Soldiers have been busy our Soldiers face on a daily basis.
– they processed thru Manas,
Kyrgyzstan,; completed final in- I want to especially thank
country training; were involved in our Families, friends and the Fort
the transfer of authority process Knox community for all your sup-
between the 4th Sustainment port. We have seen care packages
Command (Exp) and us; and, as flowing in and truly appreciate
of May 7, took over the driver’s all you are doing for us. I would
seat as we support U.S. and coali- like to remind everyone to regu-
tion forces. larly visit the 3d ESC Facebook
page where we post many stories
Additionally, JSC-A head- and photos at www.facebook.
quarters had six Soldiers re-enlist to do a great job tackling all the com/3dESC.
and conducted a patch ceremony, missions that are given to them.
where all Soldiers received autho- Sustaining the Line!
rization to wear the 3d ESC patch Over the next nine months Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French
on the right sleeve of their uni- we look forward to showcasing Sustainer 6
forms for the rest of their military the hard work of JSC-A and our
careers. JSC-A Soldiers continue subordinate units across Afghani-

The Chaplain’s Command - Afghanistan
Joint Sustainment Office
Lt. Col. David Vanderjagt
30 days in the Sand is already covered in dirt by the gather late at night around card
time the morning walk to work is tables to enjoy an hour of fun after
Here are some reflections of completed. a busy day.
memories of the first thirty days in
Afghanistan. The smell, well let’s just say Boxes arrive filled with
it will not be missed by anyone. goodies from schools where chil-
It is sometimes easy to find dren send their support in simple
reasons to complain when faced A 14-hour day is not un- ways. One young girl I know asked
with a difficult or unwelcome cir- common and the days of the week that she receive no birthday pres-
cumstance. are already blurring together. Per- ents on her birthday, but rather for
sonal space is limited. all those attending to bring a gift
Though we are Soldiers for Soldiers serving here.
and have volunteered for this mis- In the size of my teen boy’s
sion, and we are all willing to be bedroom we stack four Soldiers. Sand, heat, dust, and
here because of that call, does not Some are up early, and some are crowded quarters are but a small
mean that this is our preferred up late, and NO one is as quiet as price to pay to serve our country.
spot in the world. Not one Soldier a mouse.
I know put down Afghanistan for We sustain the line.
their next family vacation. Are all reflections then
shadows and negative? No! Chaplain Vanderjagt
The days are already turn-
ing hot and dusty. The clean uni- Duty fills our hearts with
form put on fresh in the morning pride to serve our nation. Friends

3
Page


Command Sgt. Command - Afghanistan
Joint Sustainment Maj.’s Corner
Command Sgt. Maj. Karl Roberts
Greetings from Kandahar Air-
field,

I just wanted to take a
moment to let you, the Families
and friends of the 3d Sustainment
Command (Expeditionary), know
that your Soldiers have performed
phenomenally since arriving here.
We have trained hard in prepara-
tion and now it is time to perform
to standard.

As the senior enlisted lead-
er in the 3d ESC, I believe in hard
work and dedication to the mis-
sion. But I also know that Soldiers
need time off to recuperate and
connect with you, the Families,
back home.

With this said, I would like
to share with you what’s available
for your Soldiers at Kandahar Air-
field. ergy expended during their work- another route, the Morale, Welfare
out, your Soldiers have the option and Recreation offices here have
Kandahar Airfield is of eating at seven dining facilities computers and phones available
sprawling base located in southern that serve breakfast, lunch, dinner for use at no cost to the Soldier.
Afghanistan which houses more and at some, midnight meals. And
than 25,000 NATO and U.S. Forc- if the dining facilities get old, there While there are many
es. Major commands located here are several restaurants to include recreation and leisure options
include Regional Command-South Kentucky Fried Chicken, TGI- available to your Soldiers while
(RC-S) and NATO’s International Fridays, and Mamma Mia’s Pizza, deployed, I do want to inform you
Security Assistance Force (ISAF). that they can pick up food. that they are working really hard.

Being that Kandahar For your Soldier’s spiritual I am proud to serve as
Airfield is an expeditionary base, needs Kandahar Airfield has sev- their senior enlisted advisor and
access to some commercial goods eral Chaplains and Chapel servic- am proud to be a member of such
and military supplies is limited, so es available. Times and locations a great and professional team.
please send your loved one needed for Chapel services are posted
items. around post and there are a vast I would like to thank our
variety available. friends, Families and Fort Knox
There is an AAFES Ex- communities for your support as
change here where Soldiers can And last, but not least, we embark on our mission as we
purchase the necessities, but they Kandahar Airfield has various inform the Joint Sustainment Com-
may need your help for limited ternet and phone options available mand –Afghanistan. We truly miss
items. so that you can stay connected you and we look forward to seeing
with your Soldiers. you soon.
First, I would like to
highlight one of my favorite des- In their rooms, Soldiers Sustaining the Line!
tinations, the gym. Located at have the option of purchasing CSM Karl A. Roberts
Kandahar Airfield are two very internet connectivity from sev- Sustainer 7
nice exercise facilities that have eral vendors who offer a variety
equipment available ranging from of plans to accommodate those
treadmills to free weights. interested.

To recoup some of the en- For those wanting to go

4
Page


3d ESC Soldiers deploy to Afghanistan
Sgt. 1st Class Rob Strain bang up job,” Col. Kristin French,
the 3d ESC commander, said.
FORT KNOX, Ky. – More
than 150 Soldiers from the 3d “I really feel that the team
Sustainment Command (Expedi- has come together,” French added.
tionary) departed Fort Knox April “We’ve got an opportunity now to
15 for a nine-month deployment to show off our talents.”
Afghanistan in support of Opera-
tion Enduring Freedom. For Chief Warrant Officer 3
Joseph Giles, the 3d ESC air op-
The deployment marks the erations technician, being a part
third for the 3d ESC since it relo- of the team makes this deploy-
cated to Fort Knox in June 2007. ment that much better than his
The command deployed to Iraq in first tour to Afghanistan.
support of Operation Iraqi Free-
dom in May 2008 and to Haiti in Giles, a Horseheads, N.Y.,
January 2010 in support of Opera- native, explained that during his
tion Unified Response. first deployment, he joined the
unit 30 days before they deployed Staff Sgt. Mike Chreene, a finance noncom-
While deployed, the 3d and didn’t have time to get to missioned officer with the 3d Sustainment
Command (Expeditionary), talks to his son
ESC will ensure all United States know anyone else. Caleb, 4, before deploying to Afghanistan April
and selected Coalition and Afghan 15. Chreene was one of more than 150 3d ESC
Soldiers who left on a nine-month deployment
Military Forces are supported and “I didn’t know anybody,” April 15. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Rob
sustained throughout the country Giles said. Strain)
and to assist in the responsible
drawdown of U.S. Forces. Given In addition to not know- “I’ll be doing what I know
its joint mission, the commands ing anyone else in the unit, Giles how to do,” Giles said, adding that
name will be converted from an said he ended up doing a job he he already knows his counterparts
ESC to a Joint Sustainment Com- wasn’t familiar with, but that isn’t and what he is getting into.
mand – Afghanistan. the case this deployment – he has That doesn’t mean the deployment
been assigned to the 3d ESC for will be easy; Giles said the most
“The Soldiers are ready to nearly two years, training for this challenging part will be getting
execute the mission in Afghani- deployment. used to the environment and the
stan, and I’m confident they’ll do a quality of life – as well as leaving
his wife and kids.

“It’s hard leaving family,”
Giles said.

“The Families are ready;
the Soldiers are ready, [and] the
Fort Knox community is ready to
send us off,” French said.

Command Sgt. Maj. Karl
Roberts, the 3d ESC senior enlist-
ed advisor, indicated his readiness
in four simple words.

“Fall in; let’s go,” Roberts
said, referring to the military com-
mand to gather troops.

Spc. Nestor Reyes, a supply specialist with the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), takes
some time alone to talk to family on the phone before his deployment to Afghanistan April 15. (U.S.
Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Rob Strain)

Page5


Sustainers take charge in Afghanistan

Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French, the commanding general of the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and Command Sgt. Maj. Karl A. Roberts Sr.,
the 3d ESC’s senior enlisted leader, uncase the command’s colors during a transfer of authority at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan May 7. During the
ceremony, the 3d ESC took command of Joint Sustainment Command – Afghanistan from the 4th ESC and became the senior logisticians in county and
are responsible for all logistics operations within the Afghanistan theater. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Andrew Valles)
Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin and I’m confident that you are up to the task.”
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – The
3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) officially With the transfer, the Sustainers are now the
took command of the Joint Sustainment Command senior logisticians in county and are responsible for
– Afghanistan (JSC-A) during a Transfer of Authority all logistics operations within the Afghanistan the-
at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan, on May 7. ater. As the commanding element of JSC-A, the 3d
ESC will oversee more than 40,000 logistics Soldiers,
The 3d ESC, based out of Fort Knox, Ky., took civilians and contractors providing support to United
over operations from the 4th Sustainment Command States forces, Coalition partners and Afghan forces
(Expeditionary), who is headquartered at Fort Sam in theater.
Houston, Texas, and commanded by Brig. Gen. Les J.
Carroll. While the 3d ESC’s mission will be similar
to that of the 4th ESC, Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French,
Reviewing the ceremony was Maj. Gen. Wil- commanding general of the 3d ESC, said that she
liam E. Rapp, the deputy commander-support for was confident in her Sustainer’s abilities to take
United States Forces – Afghanistan, who thanked charge.
the 4th ESC for their hard work and diligence during
their tour and expressed confidence in the 3d ESC’s “The 3d ESC is ready to conduct our two
ability to carry on the mission. critical missions, to support and sustain all U.S. and
selected Coalition Forces throughout the country, as
“As the 4th ESC reflects over their past 12 well as to assist in the responsible return of equip-
months they can take great pride in their numerous ment and personnel,” said French. “I am confident we
accomplishments and find solace in the fact that as will succeed in both tasks.”
simple as it may sound, they made a difference and
they made everything count,” said Rapp. “To the With its main mission being sustainment and
Soldiers of the 3d ESC, the theater of operations is a logistics operations, the 3d ESC’s support opera-
constantly evolving one. I know that each one of you tions section will play a major role in the deployment.
are multifunctional and there are no one-trick ponies
See TOA, next page
Page6


TOA, from previous “The ceremony is the culmination of all our
pre-deployment training, relief in place and our com-
Col. Gregory Koller, the 3d ESC’s support operations mitment to the mission in accordance with the com-
officer in charge, said that his section is ready and mander’s guidance,” Roberts said.
willing to fulfill the command’s mission.
French said that she looked forward to lead-
“The transfer of authority means we’re ready, ing the JSC-A, and thanked the 4th ESC for setting
that we’re large and in charge,” said Koller. “It now a high standard during their time in theater. She
falls on us to continue the challenging logistics mis- promised to improve operations even more during her
sion we face here in Afghanistan.” time in command.

This deployment for the 3d ESC marks the For the 4th ESC, the ceremony marked the
third since the command moved to Fort Knox from end of a successful campaign in which Brig. Gen. Les
Wiesbaden, Germany in 2007. Before deploying to J. Carroll, the commanding general of the 4th ESC,
Afghanistan in April, the 3d ESC deployed to Iraq in said that he appreciated everything that his Soldiers
support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and to Haiti in accomplished during their deployment.
support of Operation Unified Response.
Fully trained and ready to assume the mis-
Command Sgt. Maj. Karl A. Roberts Sr., the sion, the 3d ESC and its Soldiers are ready to as-
3d ESC’s senior enlisted leader said that the transfer sume the mission of JSC-A.
of authority is important to the command and the
Soldiers to which it supports.

O n this day, 237 years ago, our Nation’s leaders
established the Continental Army to protect op-
pressed colonists yearning for freedom – beginning our
Army’s rich heritage of defending our country and her
citizens. Today, we celebrate the generations of Soldiers
who embraced this calling and have served this great
Nation with honor, loyalty and bravery in peace and
war for more than two centuries.

Change has always been an enduring theme of our
Army’s experience. After our long war for independence,
we adapted to meet the needs of an expanding Nation
– securing frontiers, building roads and canals, and
mapping new territories. In the twentieth century, we fought two World Wars to defeat tyranny and spread
the cause of freedom – emerging as the stabilizing global force. From Korea to Vietnam to the Persian Gulf,
we answered our Nation’s ever call to preserve peace and stability. And, following the attacks of September
11, 2001, our Army made the decisive contribution to the global struggle against violent extremism. Today,
more than a decade later, as we reflect on our accomplishments in Iraq, continue to serve our Nation’s in-
terests in Afghanistan and elsewhere, and protect the American people at home, we remain vigilant as we
prepare for the challenges of an uncertain future.

Despite all this, some things have never changed. Our Army has always remained true to our enduring
professional values: we value the dignity and respect of all our Soldiers, Families and civilians; we honor
the sacred trust our Nation places with us; and, we remain our Nation’s loyal servants – defending the
principles upon which our Declaration of Independence and Constitution were established. For 237 years,
America’s Army has always answered the Nation’s call, and we always will.

On the Army’s Birthday, we thank every Soldier, civilian and Family member who has ever served in our
ranks for your dedication to duty and the selfless service that have made us all Army Strong. Happy Birth-
day!

Page 7


US Navy customs supports Army retrograde
Jacquelene Van Pool vehicles that have been in theater “We are the last stop,” said
401st Army Field Support Brigade for years are free of contaminates Matuza. “When it departs Afghani-
such as biological hazards, am- stan, it’s completely clear of any-
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, munition, bird nests, moths and thing that might harm the United
Afghanistan - “When the Army larvae. They also provide train- States.”
called, we answered,” said Petty ing to the workers who clean the
Officer 2nd Class Trini Castro. vehicles showing them the places To meet President Obama’s
most often missed. goal of bringing home combat
Castro, along with ap- forces from Afghanistan by 2014,
proximately 20 members of a U.S. The process to clear ve- the Army has already begun to
Navy customs team from Kuwait, hicles for shipment back to the remove excess equipment from the
are now assisting the 401st Army States starts long before it gets country.
Field Support Brigade in their custom’s cleared. First, the unit
retrograde mission. The sailors who had the vehicle cleans it and “The Navy customs team
who serve as customs agents help ensures that it is free of any bio- has been an invaluable resource
ensure that the vehicles are ready logical material and ammunition. and has helped to ensure that the
for shipment back to the United After determining there is no lon- battalion met its retrograde goals
States. ger a use for the vehicle in theater, during the past two months,” said
it is turned into a redistribution Lt. Col. Nathan Acree, support
“Our mission is to stay property assistance team yard. operations officer for the AFSBn-
here as long as the Army needs At the RPAT yard, it is thoroughly Kandahar. “We have learned a lot
us,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer cleaned and processed. from them and as a result, we are
John Matuza, who is attached to better prepared to meet the de-
the Army Field Support Battalion- During the final stages, the manding future requirements of
Kandahar. “We basically make vehicles are inspected by the Navy retrograde.”
sure everything is good to go back customs agents to ensure the ve-
to the United States.” hicles are totally clean before they Before coming to theater,
are shipped back to the States. the sailors went through a five
The team ensures that
See NAVY, next page

Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeffery Ziegler, from San Antonio, Texas, performs an inspection on a fuel tanker being prepared for shipment back to the United
States. He is part of a Navy customs team assigned to the Army Field Support Battalion-Kandahar, 401st Army Field Support Brigade. The team is help-
ing to expedite the shipping of excess equipment back to the U.S. in preparation for the reduction of U.S. forces in the coming year. (U.S. Army photo by
Jacquelene Van Pool)

Page 8


NAVY, from previous ing], learning their lingo [and] how Many of the sailors were
they do business,” said Castro. also glad to be helping another
week training course back in the service.
States. Additional training was “It’s nice to interact with
provided in Kuwait. another branch of service,” said “Coming back here was
Petty Officer 1st Class Edward Yo- a priority,” said Matuza, “to do
For many on the team, this shikawa. “A lot of people don’t get something to help [the Army]
is the first experience doing a joint that opportunity, to interact with because they are doing multiple
mission. another branch of service in their missions, going outside the wire
career.” all the time.”
“At first it was [challeng-

Kandahar celebrates Asian American, Pacific Islander heritage
Master Sgt. Adam Eckstein severed to build a better life for their children and all
Equal Opportunity Advisor Americans,” Obama wrote in his declaration.
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - While
much of the interest for Joint Sustainment Com- A joint event hosted by units falling under
mand-Afghanistan units based at Kandahar Airfield both the 82d Airborne Division and Joint Sustain-
was focused on maintaining sustainment activi- ment Command-Afghanistan, the observance was
ties for units based in Afghanistan, approximately not overshadowed by the neon lights, fast food res-
500 Soldiers, civilians and contractors were able to taurants or runners on the track even though it was
take time out of their busy schedules to focus on the situated amidst the sometimes hectic pedestrian traf-
Asian American Pacific Islander Observance held fic of the airfield’s famously nicknamed “boardwalk”.
during the twilight hours of May 18.
For one 3d ESC Soldier the same held true.
The theme for this year’s observance was
“Striving for Excellence in Leadership, Diversity and Spc. Frank Eldridge, a light vehicle mechanic
Inclusion.” and native of Louisville, Ky., observed that Asian
American Pacific Islanders “were proud of their his-
The theme was chosen to focus on the Ex- tory and knowledge and willing to show their tradi-
ecutive Order on Diversity and Inclusion signed by tions with their fellow service members”.
President Barack Obama on August 18, 2011.
For those passersby on the boardwalk who
“Generations of Asian Americans and Pacific might have been unaware of the observance, few
Islanders (AAPI) have helped develop and defend the walked away without a greater understanding of the
United States, often in the face of tremendous racial culture of the Asian American Pacific Islander.
and cultural prejudice. Despite these difficulties,
AAPI men and women struggled, sacrificed, and per-

Sustainers receive combat patch
Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD,
Afghanistan -- After 30 days in
country, Soldiers of the 3d Sus-
tainment Command (Expedition-
ary) marked their deployment to
Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan,
May 17 by receiving their combat
patch during a ceremony here.

Brig. Gen. Kristin K.
French, the 3d ESC’s command-
ing general, presented the Soldiers
with their patches as they offi-
cially became a part of command’s
history. French said that she was Specialist Brandon Johnson, a visual information equipment operator with the 3d Sustainment
Command (Expeditionary), receives his combat patch signifying past or active participation in
wartime service, from Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French, the 3d ESC’s commanding general, during a cer-
See PATCH, next page emony at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan on May 17. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin)

Page 9


PATCH, from previous leaders and Soldiers to identify Kinston, N.C., native. “I feel that
their troops. it represents something I could
proud and excited to present the always tell my children about and
Soldiers of the 3d ESC with their Because of this, Soldiers wear even after I retire.”
combat patches. devised a system that each corps
would wear a distinctive patch on The 3d ESC’s shoulder
The shoulder sleeve insig- top of their hats. When identifica- insignia represents a long history
nia - former wartime service, com- tion became an issue because of for the command which includes
monly known as the combat patch, injuries or lost hats, the system participation in every Operation
has a rich history and different was revised to include the patches Iraqi Freedom rotation since 2003
meanings to those authorized to on the uniform. and in Afghanistan as part of sev-
wear them. But something similar eral rotations of Operation Endur-
to those authorized to wear them, Over the years, this sys- ing Freedom. Campaigns to Korea,
is the sense of pride and accom- tem evolved and eventually led to France, Germany and the Balkans
plishment they bring. patches being worn on the left and are represented in the command’s
right shoulders of the uniform, proud history.
“There’s a lot of his- allowing proud veterans to display
tory dealing with the awarding of their unit patches as symbols of Comprised of three blue
combat patches to those serving prior campaigns and battles. arrows pointing outwards, repre-
in combat zones,” said 1st Sgt. senting the command’s numeri-
Keevin Fields, the 3d ESC’s Head- Worn on the right should of cal designation and mission to
quarters and Headquarters Com- the U.S. Army uniform, the com- provide combat support wherever
pany senior noncommissioned of- bat patch symbolizes a Soldiers it’s needed. The arrows and arrow-
ficer. “To all of us who have served, past or active participation in war- heads are symbols frequently used
the combat patch has many differ- time service. in U.S. Army insignia designs
ent meanings, but it’s always re- because they represent items used
warding to award a young Soldier “Receiving a combat patch in warfare and defense.
his/her combat patch.” is a big accomplishment for me
because everyone can’t be in The red circle outlining the
The history of the combat the military, and everyone can’t 3d ESC patch signifies the never
patch dates back to the Civil War deploy and withstand the things ending valor and courage of its
and has since become a histori- that you have to go through in Soldiers. The white field represents
cal Army tradition. The wearing of order to get a patch,” said Pvt. 1st purity and dedication.
patches in general was important Class Stephan Humes, an execu-
and began out of a necessity for tive administrative assistant and

3d ESC Soldiers tour water bottling facility
Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Sol-
diers from the 3d Sustainment Command (Expedi-
tionary) toured the NATO Maintenance and Supply
Agency water bottling facility at Kandahar Air Field,
Afghanistan on May 15.

The Sustainers visited the water bottling facil-
ity to get an assessment on the plant’s production
and distribution.

The water bottling facility, which started pro-
duction in March 2012, will soon become the main
supplier of bottled water soon at KAF.

“All of the technology here is very, very mod-
ern,” said Larry Downes, the technical officer for the
water bottling facility. “There’s a microbiological lab
that’s able to conduct water testing on-site and the Soldiers from the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) receive a
quality control is excellent.” briefing on the water bottling process during a tour to the NATO Mainte-
nance and Supply Agency water bottling facility at Kandahar Air Field,
Afghanistan on May 15. The Sustainers visited the water bottling facility to
get an assessment on the plant’s production and distribution. (U.S. Army
See WATER, next page photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin)

Page10


WATER, from previous the tour involves the formation of the facility’s water
bottles.
Downes explained to the Soldiers that the
facility is capable of producing 16,000 bottles when Starting with what looks similar to a test
operating at 100% capability. But as they continue tube, the bottles are heated, then blasted with air to
to train and work towards becoming the main bottled form the shape we know. This design of the bottles
water supplier to KAF, the facility is currently run- was deliberate as developers sought to produce some-
ning at 90 % capability, producing 14,400 bottles per thing easy to hold, store and dispose of. This way,
hour. Soldiers could easily hold and store them.

According to Downes, the facility’s capability Those in attendance during the tour said that
can be expanded and production increased as it was the facility was very advanced in its operation as they
built with the intent for future expansion. were amazed at the total bottling process.

To produce bottled water, the plant utilizes 2 “It was very interesting to see the water bot-
wells which alternated between daily usage. Because tling process from start to finish,” said Sgt. 1st Class
the water is brought up from freshly dug wells, purifi- Mison Pak, the 3d ESC’s surgeon cell noncommis-
cation is minimal. sioned officer in charge. “This was a very informative
tour and I feel that I have a better understanding of
One of the more interesting exhibits during the process as a result.”

Transporters tackle new mission in Afghanistan
Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin “The importance of the
RPAT mission is that it allows us
KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, to get equipment out of theater
AFGHANISTAN – If there’s one and to Soldiers who can use it,”
thing Soldiers of the 233rd Trans- said Schwartz.
portation Company know, they
definitely know how to get heavy The retrograde mission
equipment from one point to an- involves many processes, several
other in austere environments. of which are spearheaded by Sol-
diers of the 233rd Trans. Co. The
Whether it involved Sol- company has Soldiers who ensure
Sgt. Joshua Brown, of the 233rd Transportation
diers being out on missions rang- Company, explains the equipment issuing pro- equipment is properly accounted
ing anywhere from days to weeks, cess to 1st Lt. Brandon Schwartz, an operations for, cleaned and free of hazardous
officer with the 233rd. (U.S. Army photo by Staff
the 233rd’s Soldiers took on the Sgt. Michael Behlin) materials and munitions. After
retrograde mission of moving these processes are completed, the
Soldiers and equipment out of Iraq ing, the 233rd’s assistance in the equipment is then shipped to its
when it deployed to Kuwait in July mission will be important to the various destinations.
of 2011. successful completion of the presi-
dent’s surge recovery. Though the 233rd’s new
That is until a few months mission doesn’t necessarily mir-
ago, when they received a change “In the RPAT yard, we’re ror what it normally entails, its
of mission - the heavy equipment responsible for theater retrograde Soldiers have adjusted well. While
transport company took on a ret- of the Army’s equipment, essen- many have admitted they would
rograde mission of a different sort tially getting it from here in coun- much rather be out on the roads
earlier this year. try to repair and redistribution moving equipment, they under-
centers in Kuwait or the U.S. for stand their role and its impor-
Spread throughout sev- repair and redistribution,” said 1st tance.
eral combat posts in Afghanistan, Lt. Brandon Schwartz, an opera-
members of the 233rd Trans. Co. tions officer with the 233rd Trans. “The adjustment here has
have moved from the driver’s seat Co. currently working at the RPAT been tough, having to learn a new
to more of a management role as yard at Kandahar Air Field. job in a new environment,” said
they work in the various redistri- Staff Sgt. Anthony Jackson, an
bution property assistance team, Schwartz said the RPAT operations noncommissioned of-
or RPAT, yards. process is important because it ficer with the company. “It’s been
allows the Army to replenish old, difficult at times not doing what
With the Iraq war draw- used and battle damaged equip- you’re used to, but we’ve made the
down completed and the Afghani- ment from both the Iraq and Af- most of it.”
stan drawdown closely approach- ghanistan wars.

1
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Changes Coming as the Army Expands Use of
Early Discharge Authority of Regular Army Enlisted Members
JSC-A Rentention Office Soldiers assigned to deploying units whose
scheduled separation date precludes them from de-
Congress recently amended legislation that ploying with their unit will be given the opportunity
expands the services’ authority to separate Regu- to reenlist or extend. Soldiers with more than three
lar Army enlisted members from three months to years of active service, but less than six years of total
one year prior to their scheduled date of separation, service that elect not to reenlist or extend will be
referred to as Expiration Term of Service (ETS). The subject to involuntary early separation. Additionally,
Army announced today that it plans to begin using commanders have the discretion to retain a soldier
this authority in June 2012 in a very targeted man- for operational necessity or compassionate reasons.
ner to address readiness in deploying formations by
stabilizing enlisted soldiers at least six months prior The Army has incorporated measures to en-
to deployment. sure soldiers who elect not to reenlist or extend their
period of enlistment complete all transition require-
The Army’s Enlisted Involuntary Early Sepa- ments prior to separation including taking advantage
ration Program is directed towards the small per- of the Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) and
centage of Soldiers in deploying units who remain in other transition programs. Commanders will afford
the unit’s rear detachment due to insufficient time Soldiers sufficient time, but not less than 90 days, to
remaining before ETS to complete the deployment. focus on transition activities to ensure Soldiers and
The Army will not immediately increase the period of their families are prepared for the transition from ac-
early separation to one year, rather it will implement tive service.
this change in a phased manner based on scheduled
unit deployment dates. For more information, Soldiers should contact
their unit career counselor.

Female, Muslim medic spends career mending preconceptions
Sgt. Ken Scar features of women, like the fa- to Iraq and a third, current one to
7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment mous model Iman, who are native Afghanistan, where she is the non-
PARWAN PROVINCE, Af- to that region. Her feisty attitude commissioned officer-in-charge
ghanistan – U.S. Army Staff Sgt. belies her ethereal appearance, of the Troop Medical Clinic, 10th
Muna Nur is striking for many however, and is more a testament Sustainment Brigade, Task Force
reasons. Born in Somalia, she has to her six-year military career that Muleskinner.
the warm complexion and elegant includes two tough deployments
“I was born in Somalia, so
I’m a child of war, I guess,” she
said. “When I was two months
old, because of the war, my mom
moved us to Kenya until I was
five, and then to America – where
we finally settled in Minnesota. I
consider myself an American even
though I wasn’t born there.”

On a typical shift in the
walk-in clinic on Bagram Air Field
that she manages when she’s not
on missions outside the wire, she
can be seen ribbing her medics
good-naturally like a stern mother
while brandishing her “Soldier
Adjustment Tool”, an organic club
fashioned from a tree limb with a
ball-like gourd on one end, sharp-
ened to a point on the other, and
decorated all over with African-
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Muna Nur, a native of St. Paul, Minn., a medic with the 10th Sustainment Bri-
style etchings.
gade, Task Force Muleskinner, loads her equipment into a mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle
belonging to the Louisiana National Guard’s 1086th Transportation Company before embarking on a She gestures dramatically
5-day, 400-mile convoy, May 20, 2012. The convoy went from Bagram Air Field to Forward Operating
Base Warrior and back on Afghanistan’s notorious Highway 1. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ken Scar) See NUR, next page
12
Page


NUR, from previous “I think the majority of cal patrols that travel to smaller
soldiers are trained to differentiate combat outposts and bases all
and threatens to use it to get her between terrorists and what Islam over Regional Command-East on
soldiers in line, but it says some- is,” she said. the most dangerous roadways in
thing about her leadership that theater. Out of the 42 medics she
it was, in fact, her soldiers that That’s not to say she has is responsible for, 10 of them are
gifted it to her. never heard inconsiderate com- female.
ments, but as a medic who is often
“I run a tight ship,” she the only female out on a mission, “If we took all our females
says, furrowing her brow toward she knows how to brush off the off the road, the missions wouldn’t
everyone in the waiting area to harsh words and posturing of happen,” she stated matter-of-fac-
light-hearted laughter. some her less sensitive colleagues. tually.

Nur has worked her way “My first tour of Iraq was She personally does an av-
to a position that suits her well, very difficult for me,” she said. erage of three missions per month,
but things have not always run so “Treating soldiers who just got hit, so she will rack up nearly 50
smoothly for her. I heard the backlash, but now I missions outside the wire on this
don’t take it as an attack against deployment.
Another of her striking Muslims in general or me, I take is
aspects is the fact that she is a as an attack against terrorists.” “She is dedicated to what
proud Muslim, a trait that has cre- she does,” said Sgt. Maj. Janice
ated difficulties for her in the past Dealing with traditional Glaze, the Operations sergeant
– especially after 9/11. Afghan prejudices is another major for Task Force Muleskin-
thing she has learned to deal with ner. “She really has concern for
“9/11 created such an awk- gracefully. soldiers, and I would speak to her
ward position for my family,” she courage. As a medic, she treats the
said. “My mom is not totally reli- “Most Afghanis are il- soldiers that encounter improvised
gious, but she wears the scarves literate,” she explained. “They explosive devices. She sees the
over her head, and she is very don’t read the Quran, it’s taught wounds, so she knows what can
fair-skinned so she looks Arab. I to them. So for me, as a Muslim happen when you go outside that
just remember all the comments woman who reads the Quran and wire – and yet she is never hesi-
... ” she trails off, hesitant to get has my own interpretation - it can tant to go on those missions.”
too specific and dredge up old be a battle.”
wounds. “Once you’re outside the
“You have to have a thick wire, anything can happen,” said
“I said to myself, do I want skin,” she added, smiling. “You Nur. “I want the world to know
people to think my family is full have to know what right looks that my medics go out there and
of terrorists? Do I want people to like, and be tolerant. You can’t go have to be combat soldiers, wheth-
view my religion like we’re all ter- around telling people their religion er they’re male or female.”
rorists? I wanted to fight back, so is wrong or they believe in false
that’s one of the main reasons I prophets. How would you feel if I “When you go out [on the
joined [the Army].” condemned you to hell because convoys] there’s no separation. We
you’re not a Muslim? I don’t be- all sleep in the same tents, or the
The decision to become a lieve in that.” same trucks,” she said, adding
medic was a simpler one: “I want- with a laugh, “Once you can pee
ed to help people.” “More than anything, she outside or in the truck with the
educates us,” explained Air Force guys, the awkwardness leaves.”
Being female and a Mus- Senior Airman Natasha Whitten,
lim could have been a double- one of Nur’s medics. “Like when “We are already in combat,”
whammy joining the Army, whose the Qurans were burned [in Feb- said Air Force Staff Sgt. Anahi
population is historically com- ruary], she let us know why people Pelayo, also one of Nur’s medics,
prised mostly of men and sol- were so upset and what the proper referring to the debate over wheth-
diers that believe in some form of way to do it would have been.” er women should be in combat
Christianity – but surprisingly, the positions. “We [female medics] are
discrimination she experienced in As far as being a female not necessarily behind the weap-
the civilian world was much worse in a war zone, Nur marvels at the ons, but we take care of everyone
than what she’s experienced as a fact there is any debate at all that else that is.”
soldier. she or any of her female comrades
belong in combat. “I love the action, and I love
She credits the Army’s being out. But I always say that I
emphasis on cultural training for Every medic in her unit like to stay unemployed on mis-
that. rotates from working in the clinic sions,” said Nur.
to rolling with combat logisti-
13
Page


Retro-Sort Yard consolidates equipment
Sgt. Chris Huddleston “The Retro-Sort Yard will take all classes
45th Sustainment Brigade public affairs
of supply except Class VII (real property), Class V
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Sol- (Ammo) and scrap metal or trash,” said 1st Sgt. Rob-
diers with the 45th Quartermaster (Provisional) ert Garo, senior non-commissioned officer, 45th QM
Company, 45th Sustainment Brigade, provide a place (P) Co.
for units in southern Afghanistan to turn in service-
able items they no longer need which can in turn “The items come from all over the Regional
be issued to units who need them at the Kandahar Command, RC-South/Southwest/West, with most
Airfield Retro-Sort Yard. items coming from closing forward operating bases.”

The goal of the Retro-Sort Yard is to reduce The yard’s free issue warehouse is open Mon-
waste within the Army supply system and get un- day, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from
needed supplies to units who can use them. 1000-1800 and has a wide assortment of items for
issue.
“The Retro-Sort Yard provides a one-stop shop
for Army units to turn in excess and non-mission “There is no documentation required to pick
essential equipment that has accumulated over the up any serviceable items,” said Garo. “We have
past ten years,” said Capt. Andrew Thomas, com- expendable/durable free issue, an updated itemize
mander 45th QM (P) Co. “We then redistribute these listing is published weekly for anyone to see what’s
supplies to units that require them locally or return available to pick up in support of their mission.
them to the Army supply system, negating the need
for the Army to purchase more stocks and saving For example; paper cups, plates, large trash,
tax-payer money.” motor oil, safety cones, wall lockers, copy paper and
more.”
Units located in RC-South, Southwest and
West can bring items to the yard 24 hours a day, 7 The KAF Retro-Sort Yard is located in the
days a week. Deep South Area.

Spc. Orlando Peyton logs in a new shipment of items at his work station at the Kandahar Airfield Retro-Sort Yard. The Retro-Sort Yard provides a central-
ized location for units in RC-South, RC-Southwest, and RC-West to turn in items and equipment that is no longer needed that other units in the area can
then put to use. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Chris Huddleson)

Page14

Volume1

C  C
Bouncing Back
Sustainer June2012

Joint Sustainment Command - Afghanistan
Master Resiliency Trainer
A H P C 
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, your federal medical school, Bethesda, Maryland • www. usuhs.mil

Helping Children Cope
During Deployment
This fact sheet contains useful information opportunities for families to grow closer and stronger.
for you — parents and family caregivers — to The best way to help children cope is to 1) reassure
help children cope during a parents’ deployment. them that the deployed parent is trained to do his/her
Experts in military medicine and family trauma job; 2) explain to children that they, too, have a job as
who understand the impact of deployment on part of the family at home who supports our troops
families have written this fact sheet. It is in the and our nation; and, 3) communicate in ways that
form of commonly asked questions followed by children can understand according to their age (see
their responses. It is important to remember that sidebar on page 2: Communicating with Children
while deployments are stressful, they also provide during Deployment).

Commonly Asked Questions from Parents Q. Are there ways to reduce stress on children
About Deployment during the separation?
A. Yes, one very positive way is emphasize to your children
Q. What is the best way to prepare children for that they have a job that is as REAL as that of the deployed
deployment? parent. Stress is often the result of feeling helpless or unsure
A. Parents must be honest, and focus on their children’s or unclear about a new role or situation. It is important to
safety, security and continuity of routine. If deployment reinforce that doing well in school, helping out at home and
will change the child’s lifestyle such as moving, living with being cooperative is a skill set that is part of their job, one
grandparents, or changing childcare, school or community that is valued and unique to their being a military child.
activities, the child needs to hear of these things in advance. When children do their job they help support their parent’s
mission.
Q. How else can we reassure our children about a
deployment? Q. How should school problems be handled?
A. First, parents should digest the information before they A. If there is concern about a child’s behavior at home,
communicate it to children so they can deliver it in a calm parents should notify the school. Many parents may be
and reassuring manner. Second, children worry about the reluctant to call attention to their child by warning school
safety of the deployed parent. It is important to let children ofﬁcials, but it is important for the school to be alert to
know that the deployed parent is trained to do their job. any unusual symptoms. If a child has had psychiatric
Third, it is important to communicate in a way that your issues before the deployment they are more likely to have
child will understand based on their age. problems as a result of the deployment. It is important to
talk to your child about any acting out, and get them to
Q. How do children signal their distress? discuss their feelings and issues. Your child’s school or your
A. Stress affects children like it does adults. Children primary care doctor can arrange for counseling services.
may complain of headaches, stomach distress and sleep
disturbances. They may display moodiness, irritability, General Tips for Communicating with Children
low energy, and have more dramatic reactions to minor of All Ages
situations such as stubbing a toe. It can be difﬁcult ■ Be careful about sharing your emotions with children.
sometimes to sort out normal distress and more serious Some parents share too much (losing control in front
problems. If in doubt, seek medical advice. of kids) or share too little (no emotion or giving the
Continued on reverse side

Page15


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Life around Kandahar: Photos from Facebook
Photos by Staff Sgt. Michael Behlin

17
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Sustainer - June 2012

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