FORT CARSON, Colo. – A civilian was made an honorary member of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Oct. 22, in recognition of his efforts to maintain and condition Soldiers.

Matthew Chandler, strength and conditioning trainer with the Tactical Athlete Program on Fort Carson, became the third civilian to be awarded honorary membership in the 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., during a brigade morning brief.

The Tactical Athlete Program is designed to prevent injury and accelerate injury recovery through exercises that focus on strength and conditioning. Strength conditioning is the act of using exercises, such as deadlifts and squats, to fortify muscle groups Soldiers use daily.

Chandler, a native of Dartmouth, Mass., became an integral part of the TAP team as a coach, due to his master's degree in exercise science and his being the only TAP team member with prior military service in the United States Marine Corps.

"He was a Marine scout and he's also been deployed, so he has a really good idea of what servicemembers do on a daily basis," said Capt. Rachel Snell, brigade physical therapist, 3rd BCT. "He could just talk the language and he understood what it means to be a Soldier."

Due to the hard work and combined knowledge of the TAP team, the program has shown positive results such as improved physical fitness scores and overall work performance, since its first session started about a year ago.

"What we do here is performance training," said Chandler. "It's not body building, it's not power lifting, and it's not Olympic lifting. Although we use lifts from those disciplines, that's not the purpose of this program. We want Soldiers to be able to perform better at their jobs here, when they are deployed and even while they're at home."

Chandler has moved on to another job opportunity in Anaheim, Calif., as a strength and conditioning coach at Servite High School, an athletic college preparatory school. Although, he is looking forward to his new job opportunity, he said he is sad to be leaving the Iron Brigade.\

"Everyone's been very receptive. Soldiers have even helped us move equipment and have done other things to help in the gym. It's been a very good marriage, so to speak," he said.

FORT CARSON, Colo. - Matthew Chandler, strength and conditioning trainer with the Tactical Athlete Program on Fort Carson, supervises Capt. John Nikiforakis, commander, C Troop, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, as he performs a deadlift during a Tactical Athlete Program session at Garcia Gym, Oct. 17, 2012. The TAP program is designed to prevent injury and accelerate injury recovery through exercises that focus on tactical strength and conditioning to fortify muscle groups Soldiers use daily.

FORT CARSON, Colo. - Matthew Chandler, strength and conditioning trainer with the Tactical Athlete Program on Fort Carson, discusses lifting techniques with 1st Sgt. William Schneider, senior leader, C Troop, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, as he performs a deadlift during a Tactical Athlete Program session at Garcia Gym, Oct. 17, 2012. Chandler is a strength and conditioning coach who became an integral part of the TAP team due to his master's degree in exercise science and his prior military service with the United States Marine Corps.

FORT CARSON, Colo. - Matthew Chandler, strength and conditioning trainer with the Tactical Athlete Program on Fort Carson, is given an award signifying his acceptance as an honorary member of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Maj. Harry Hornbuckle, brigade executive officer, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. Chandler is the third civilian to receive the honor of becoming a member of the unit.

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – With months of preparation and training under their belts, Soldiers of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, began two weeks of training at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct. 26.

During the training, Raider Soldiers will pit their tactical skills in a joint effort with role-played allies against fictitious enemy forces.

During the first day of the exercise, the 'Raiders' convoyed to the brigade's training site in the Mojave Desert where Soldiers of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st BCT, built the brigade's tactical operations center.

Master Sgt. Ron Montano, senior operations noncommissioned officer, 1st BCT, directed construction and provided support as Soldiers hoisted the massive tents into place.

"I'm very pleased," Montano said. "The Soldiers seem pretty motivated, the NCOs are taking the lead and teaching their Soldiers the right way to do things, and all of the staff sections are pitching in and making this mission happen as quickly as possible."

The brigade TOC, made up of multiple, interlocking tents, provides an area for brigade staff to monitor and direct units on the battlefield.

"We went through multiple field exercises with the equipment and tried multiple configurations during that training before we settled on this one," Montano said. "We finalized it during brigade maneuver week and I'm pretty happy with the result. From a TOC like this, we will be able to effectively get units on the ground the direction and information they need to succeed in combat."

While most HHC Soldiers worked to erect the field headquarters, others formed a perimeter around their battle buddies, keeping an eye out from their Humvees' gun turrets for possible threats.

Specialist Kyle Zacharias, aviation operations specialist, HHC, 1st BCT, said he looks forward to spending the next two weeks learning how a unit operates during a combat deployment.

"Its probably going to be pretty tough out here, but it's an opportunity for us to learn a lot," Zacharias said. "We are off to a good start, everybody is doing their part, and I think this experience will bring us closer together and make us stronger as a unit."

The work force continued their labors into the night, setting up computers, running cables and creating an electronic backbone to keep brigade leadership connected to the units on the frontlines of the training exercise.

The training regimen at NTC will ensure the brigade can operate with a high level of competence during a combat deployment, said Maj. Robert Walker, fire support officer, 1st BCT.

"We are ready for this challenge," Walker said. "The Raider Brigade will leave here as a cohesive, trained unit prepared for whatever mission the Army calls us to do."

With their headquarters set up, the Soldiers are prepared for the challenges that will be thrown at them over the next two weeks.

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, set up the "Raider" Brigade Tactical Operations Center during their first day in "The Box" – the training area at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct 26, 2012.

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, unload tents to set up the "Raider" Brigade Tactical Operations Center during their first day in "The Box" – the training area at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct 26, 2012.

FORT IRWIN, Calif. – Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, secure the framework of the "Raider" Brigade Tactical Operations Center during their first day in "The Box" – the training area at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., Oct 26, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The audience members sat tensely on the edge of the bleachers, leaning forward slightly in anticipation, before erupting into cheers as their loved ones entered the Special Events Center for the Soldiers' Welcome Home Ceremony, Oct. 25.

The 117 Soldiers were members of the 10th Combat Support Hospital, and their shoulders lifted and backs straightened at the cheers of their Families and friends; the exhaustion from traveling halfway around the world and spending a year deployed in Afghanistan temporarily forgotten in the excitement.

Once the Soldiers had finished entering the building and falling into formation, Maj. Gen. Joseph Anderson, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, addressed them and their Families.

"Thanks for a job well done on behalf of all of us here at Fort Carson," said Anderson. "We are very proud of you."

Once Anderson finished speaking, Soldiers joined the audience in singing the 4th Inf. Div. Song and Army Song, before being released to greet their Families.

The Soldiers, sprang out of formation and families rushed out of the bleachers to merge into a large milling throng of hugging, holding, crying and kissing.

"We are dual military, so it was hard," said Spc. Asia Zanders, health care specialist, Company B, 10th Combat Support Hospital, . "Our son was 4 months old when he deployed; we were married in July of this year while he was home on (leave).

"We are going to Keystone in December for our honeymoon," said Zanders. Her husband is Sgt. Ryan Zanders, information technology specialist, whom deployed with Company A, 10th CSH.

Other Soldiers had parents there to greet them.

"Our son is returning from his fourth deployment, and we have another son that is still there," said Dale Taylor, here with his wife Vicki Taylor, parents of Staff Sgt. Terry Crow, information technology specialist, Company A, 10th CSH. "This is the first return we've made; we were at his deployment ceremony last November and our other son's last June."

The Taylors made the trip from Mesa, Ariz., to see their son return home.

Other Soldiers were looking forward to seeing their families at home.

"I'm ready to get to Chicago, to go bowling, skating, and hanging out with my little brothers and sister," said Spc. Aurelia Craft, health care specialist, Company A, 10th CSH.

After a few moments spent reacquainting with each other, Soldiers and their loved ones quickly left the special events center, which stood silent and empty, ready for the next group of Soldiers to come home to enthusiastic greetings and hugs.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers from 10th Combat Support Hospital shake hands with Fort Carson leaders at the Colorado Springs airport, Oct. 25, 2012. The Soldiers returned from a year-long deployment of Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

FORT CARSON, Colo. –Colonel Michael Place, Commander, 10th Combat Support Hospital, and Command Sgt. Maj. Winston Young, Senior Enlisted leader, 10th CSH, flank Staff Sgt. Randy Crawford, color bearer, health care specialist, Company A, 10th CSH, as the unit enters the Special Events Center during a redeployment ceremony, Oct. 25, 2012. The unit returned from a year-long deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

FORT CARSON, Colo. –Soldiers from 10th Combat Support Hospital walk to the Arrival/Departure Airfield Control Group facility after exiting an airplane at Colorado Springs airport, Oct. 25, 2012. The Soldiers returned from a year-long deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant Lydia Ortiz-Hendricks, patient administration specialist, Company A, 10th Combat Support Hospital, embraces and kisses her husband, Michael Hendricks, after redeploying from Afghanistan, at the Special Events Center during a redeployment ceremony, Oct. 25, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The bright yellow and orange colors of the leaves and the cool breeze set the tone for the Warhorse Fall Festival held at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19. The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, along with the brigade Family readiness group sponsored, organized and funded the event, which was free to the brigade Soldiers and their Families.

"We are very excited to host the first Warhorse Fall Festival," said Col. Omar Jones IV, commander, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. "This is a great way to get everybody together to enjoy being part of the team, and for us to celebrate the end of our reset and start the training cycle."

The festival had a variety of free events for Soldiers and Families to participate in, such as a haunted house, face-painting, a bounce house, horse shoe toss, pie-eating contests, costume contest, three-legged zombie race, pumpkin golf, pumpkin bowling, pie tossing, chili cook off, hay rides, candy crafts and various other games.

"Each battalion was in charge of holding an event, one for children and one for adults, but the battalions went above and beyond and are having anywhere from three to six events each," said Valarie Adams, 2BCT Family Readiness Group leader. "There (was) a lot going on."

For the Soldiers who volunteered this was an opportunity to get creative in the festival activities.

"This has been strictly volunteer, no one has been forced to do this and we've had a blast making our haunted house," said Sgt. Harry Brown, information systems operator-analyst, Troop B, 2nd Special Troops Battalion. "We've created this and the turnout has been a million times better than any of us expected."

The festival would not have been possible without the many people who contributed to the event said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Thianar Djigal, human intelligence technician, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment.

In his opening remarks, Jones said "We want to say a big thank you to everybody who came out here and helped make this possible: the fire department, Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard, the battalions and their Soldiers, the FRG and all the Families."

The event brought the Warhorse community together and allowed children to have a good time.

"My favorite part was seeing (my daughter), just have fun; she really liked the playgrounds and the bouncy houses," said Kayci Jardine, wife of a 2nd STB, 2nd BCT Soldier. "We had a good time just wandering around."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist James Woodrow (front right), Spc. Travis Hurst (back right), both health care specialists, 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, Sgt. Daniel Hudgins (front left), fire support specialist, and Spc. Steven Skinner (back left), health care specialist, both with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, participate in a pie-eating contest during the Warhorse Fall Festival held at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The pie-eating contest was just one of many events held during the festival, and the winner of the contest received a three-day pass. The brigade and the unit's Family Readiness Groups sponsored, organized and funded the event.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Grace Anne Butler, dressed as a fairy, gets her face painted by Stephanie Kennedy, the Family Readiness Group leader for Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during the Warhorse Fall Festival held at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. Families were encouraged to come dressed in costumes. Each battalion sponsored at least two different activities, one geared toward adults and one for children.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Corporal Harry Peele, armor crewman, Forward Support Company, 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows his son, Aaron , where to drop his fishing line during the Warhorse Fall Festival at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The Pumpkin Pond Fishing game used different magnets to determine which prize one would receive. Children and adults competed to win the grand prize, a toy scooter.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Ursula Pittman, family readiness support assistant, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, jokes with a father and son before they play the Fall Football Fling game during the Warhorse Fall Festival at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The FRSAs had an integral part in working with the Soldiers to prepare and run the festival. The event had some fund raising booths, but most of the activities were free of charge to the Soldiers and their Families.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Mark Castanon (left), satellite communication systems operator maintainer, and Spc. Joshua Wright, radio operator maintainer, both with Troop B, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepare to jump out at visitors of the troops' haunted house during the Warhorse Fall Festival at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The haunted house catered to their audience-- if children were coming through the Soldiers toned down the fright level.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant First Class Deanne Dunnsmith, intelligence sergeant, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and her daughter Ashley pet a horse during the Warhorse Fall Festival at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The ranch is home to the Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard and they allowed Soldiers and their Families to pet and feed horses during the festival. The mounted color guard also performed two live demonstrations

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, gather around the gazebo during the Warhorse Fall Festival at Turkey Creek Ranch, Oct. 19, 2012. The gazebo was the main hub for all the events during the festival. Every 10 to 15 minutes, announcements were made keeping guests apprised of the different activities going on.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Instead of the sound of artillery, Iron Brigade Soldiers heard thunderous roars of laughter during the Children's Festival, October 22. The festival was held for children affected by the Waldo Canyon Fire, in the Mountain Shadows Community area of Colorado Springs.

The Waldo Canyon Fire was a wildfire that affected a large area of Colorado Springs last summer, damaging more than 300 homes and burning over 18,000 acres of land.

"It's about unity," said Joshua Hill, event organizer working alongside with the City of Colorado Springs and the mayor's office. "We're just letting (those affected by the fires) know that we haven't forgot about them and that the city and the community still cares."

Soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, spent their Sunday afternoon operating a static display of two Humvees at the festival while giving away school supplies to the affected children.

"It's good for us to show support for the community and let them know that we are here," said Staff Sgt. Antonio Olivarez, cannon crewmember, Battery B, 3rd Bn. 29th FA Reg. "I think a lot of people think that the Army is only about dealing with world issues, but we're also about helping our next door neighbors."

Olivarez helped children at the carnival try on some Army gear and answer questions about the display or Army life.

"It was pretty exciting to see they're faces light up and saying, 'Wow, I've never gotten to see this,' 'What's this?', and 'Is this bulletproof?'", he said.

The carnival incorporated various giveaways and activities for the children to take part including face painting, a bouncy house, and even a flag football game with a few members of 'Pacesetter' Battalion.

"It's been fun playing football with the kids and meeting people," said Spc. Christian Zepeda, Battery B, 3rd Bn. 29th FA Reg. "It's been great."

As the sun set and vendors closed down their areas, families headed off with smiles on their faces, after a long day at the Children's Festival and the 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sgt. Antonio Olivarez, cannon crew member, Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, shows a Mountain Shadows Community Family a humvee at an Army display during the Charis Cares Children's Festival, held for children affected by the Waldo Canyon Fire in the Colorado Springs, October 22, 2012. Along with operating the display, Soldiers of the 'Pacesetter' Battalion gave away school supplies and answered questions about Army life.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Spc. Christian Zepeda, cannon crew members, Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, catches a touchdown pass during a flag football game with a group of Mountain Shadows Community children during the Charis Cares Children's Festival, held for children affected by the Waldo Canyon Fire in Colorado Springs, October 22, 2012. Soldiers of the 'Pacesetter' Battalion were asked to join the children for a friendly game of football during the festival.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – A group of Mountain Shadows community children jump up for a touchdown pass as they compete with Soldiers from Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division during a friendly flag football game during the Charis Cares Children's Festival, held for children affected by the Waldo Canyon Fire in Colorado Springs, October 22, 2012.

TRINIDAD, Colo. – Local World War II veterans were honored at the Mitchell Art Center in Trinidad, Colo., during a one-day exhibit of WWII artifacts Oct. 20.

The event honored local living veterans and was followed by a reception in honor of the men and women who served in WWII.

"These warriors not only used their strength to defeat their enemies, but were also generous and compassionate custodians of liberty (who) helped rebuild countries, write constitutions and pave the way toward democracy," said Brigadier General Ryan F. Gonsalves, deputy commanding general for maneuver, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, and guest speaker at the event. "They did not fight to conquer the world, but to liberate it."

All of the items in the exhibit came from a private owner and had never been displayed to the public before.

"When I saw the exhibit, I was speechless," said Jason Starkovich, collector and exhibit owner. "I've known some of the veterans growing up, so its nice to see them being honored in this way."

The honorees said they were impressed with the wide variety of memorabilia in the exhibit.

"It's great to see all of this stuff," said Lowell Thompson, one of the honorees. "They have pictures of me that I had forgotten about."

The Trinidad community, which is partnered with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, through the Fort Carson community relations program, sent out an invitation to the Soldiers of 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., to attend the event.

"It was an absolute honor to meet the WWII veterans, to be able to sit down and talk with them," said Maj. Jerome Barbour, operations officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg. "We are happy that Trinidad gave us the opportunity to do that."

Soldiers who attended the event said they learned a lot from the older generation of veterans.

"I volunteered for this because I wanted to see the lineage and meet the men who paved the way for me," said Sgt. Meral Smith, a machinist with Troop D, 1st Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg., 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. "The stories that they shared with us gave me a sense of pride and respect."

The event also gave the Soldiers an opportunity ask the veterans questions about their experiences and learn about what war was like when they were in the foxholes.

"It was very interesting because my grandfather was there, but he passed when I was 15, so I never really got to ask him questions. Today, I got to ask those questions (of) guys (who) maybe went through the same things he did," said Sgt. Matthew Callihan, cavalry scout, Troop A, 1st Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg. "Being able to hear the things they went through seems a lot crazier than the things we go through; these guys are heroes."

Soldiers said they were impressed with the respect the WWII vets shared for each other and were inspired by their accomplishments.

"It was good to come out here and hear the stories and witness what they went through; it makes me want to push harder in what I want to do in the military," Smith said.

The private owner did not state when the items from the exhibit would be available for viewing again.

TRINIDAD, Colo. – Lowell Thompson, a WWII veteran, talks to Sgt. Matthew Callihan, cavalry scout, Troop A, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during the Veterans Reception and WWII Exhibit at the Mitchell Art Center in Trinidad, Colo., Oct 20, 2012. Thompson, one of the honorees, spoke with attendees about his experiences during the war. He had been drafted while still in high school but in 2002 he got his diploma along with his grandson.

TRINIDAD, Colo. – Tony Massarotti, a WWII veteran, speaks with fellow veterans and Maj. Jerome Barbour (back right), operations officer, and Master Sgt. Luis Sulit, operations sergeant major, both with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, during the Veterans Reception and WWII Exhibit at the Mitchell Art Center in Trinidad, Colo., Oct 20, 2012. Massarotti, an honoree, spoke about his experiences during the war. He served in two different engineer regiments, whose primary role was building and repairing roads, bridges and airstrips, "but we were infantrymen as well," Massarotti said.

TRINIDAD, Colo. – Sergeant Donald Taylor (left), motor transport operator, and Sgt. Meral Smith, machinist, both with Troop D, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, talk with Louis Cusimano, a WWII veteran, during the Veterans Reception and WWII Exhibit at the Mitchell Art Center in Trinidad, Colo., Oct 20, 2012. Cusimano, an honoree, was a marine during the war and shared some of his experiences with the Soldiers. The exhibit showcased equipment that was used in that area a long with pictures of the vets.

TRINIDAD, Colo. – Brigadier General Ryan F. Gonsalves, deputy commanding general for maneuver, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, speaks to WWII veterans during the Veterans Reception and WWII Exhibit at the Mitchell Art Center in Trinidad, Oct 20, 2012. During his speech, Gonsalves said, "The liberty that I and other Americans possess is founded upon the selfless sacrificial service that these extraordinary warriors made on our behalf." All the honorees received a standing ovation out of respect for their service and sacrifice at the end of Gonsalves' speech.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Injured veterans talked with fellow Soldiers, 4th Brigade Combat Team and 4th Infantry Division leadership, and Colorado Springs community members, during the 4th BCT Wounded Warrior Breakfast at the Mountain Warrior Dining Facility, Oct. 17.

"Warrior" Brigade's rear detachment holds the monthly breakfast to show recognition of, and appreciation for injured Soldiers who have returned from the brigade's current deployment.

"This gathering is a nice way to get together, check on our wounded warriors, and let the community recognize (them) and say 'thank you' for their service," said Lt. Col. Nicholas Palarino, commander, Rear Detachment, 4th BCT.

Through active engagement, leadership and fellow Soldiers use the monthly opportunity to talk about the overall well-being of the redeployed veterans.

"We hold these breakfasts to check on our Soldiers, see how they're doing and how the recovery process is coming, and that they are getting the support and resources they need," Palarino said. "Even though we do that on a day-to-day basis, now it's in an informal setting so we can just talk to them casually."

Palarino added that wounded warriors often rely on each other to help with stress or personal issues.

"Internally, (they) are like their own battle buddy system," said Palarino. "The guys or gals who came back earlier and have been going through the recovery process have used some of these resources, and they let the newer guys who come back know what services they should go to."

Brigade leadership invited community members and leaders from organizations that help wounded warriors to meet and thank the Soldiers.

One of the injured Soldiers, Sgt. Mark Johnson, infantryman, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th BCT, has attended the breakfasts since June, and appreciates having the community program personnel around to offer their services.

"This is a good way for us to interact with the higher chain of command," said Johnson. "We get to know some of the programs to help with our stress and things that have happened to us."

The breakfast helped Soldiers re-integrate into their unit and feel like part of a team again, Johnson said. Wounded warriors, leadership and community members act as avenues of communication, whom Soldiers can talk to, and create a bonding experience, Johnson added.

"You have those Soldiers out there who are recovering, but they don't think anyone cares, so they withdraw and keep to themselves," said Johnson. "That's why I think the entire premise of having breakfasts to show appreciation to those Soldiers who put their safety on the line to accomplish their mission is not only touching, but helps Soldiers recover from their injuries."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Major General Joseph Anderson, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, recognizes the wounded warriors of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., for their dedication to the division mission, to an audience of 4th BCT Soldiers and Colorado Springs community members, during a Wounded Warrior Breakfast at the Mountain Warrior Dining Facility, Oct. 17, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers, wounded warriors, and command and staff members assigned to Rear Detachment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, talk Colorado Springs community members about services and programs available to recovering Soldiers, during a Wounded Warrior Breakfast at the Mountain Warrior Dining Facility, Oct. 17, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers, wounded warriors, and command and staff members assigned to Rear Detachment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, talk with Colorado Springs community members about services and programs for recovering Soldiers, during a Wounded Warrior Breakfast, at the Mountain Warrior Dining Facility, Oct. 17, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. –Recertification helps ensure Soldiers are properly trained and prepared to do their job but to make it more interesting, the Fire Support Teams of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, turned it into a competition for "Best FIST."

The recertification competition, held Oct. 15 -18, required Soldiers to perform a physical fitness test, a fire support written test, a communication skills test, land navigation, job knowledge certification, call for fire test, and a 12-mile ruck march in three hours or less.

"This is a good way for all the battalions to get together and see what their fisters are really made of," said Spc. Steven Cash, fire support specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. "The training is important, but the competition part is motivation to not just pass, but to get as high a score as possible."

The Soldiers were graded individually as well as in teams of three to five. "It's been a good team bonding experience," said Spc. Levi Shiverdecker, fire support specialist, Troop A, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment. "Most of the events are team events, so either you help each other out or you fail."

This is one of the first times the fire support teams worked together since the brigade restructured after deployment, said Lt. Col. Keith Jarolimek, commander, 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

"No matter what this training is, it's going to make the team tighter and … is going to be invaluable in supporting the brigade," said Capt. Mark Quint, fire support officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Bn., 8th Inf. Reg.

The certification competition not only tested Soldiers, it showed them their capabilities.

"It's good to get all the fisters in the brigade together for a friendly competition," said Staff Sgt. Ricky Plant, targeting noncommissioned officer, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment. "Once you get all the tasks accomplished, you feel more confident in your strength and abilities."

After compiling all the scores, a ceremony was held Oct. 26 for winners at Fort Carson's Veterans Chapel. The winning team, from C Troop, 1st Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg., consisted of 1st Lt. Derik Munoz, Staff. Sgt. James Spencer, who won individual NCO top score, Spc. Phillip Kiy, who won individual Junior Enlisted top score, and Spc. Louie Scott. The team won a trophy, a guidon for their battalion which reads "Best Fist" and bragging rights.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Steven Cash, fire support specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, checks his map during the land navigation portion of the fire support team recertification at Fort Carson's Training Area Bravo, Oct. 16, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Robert Vickery, fire support specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and his team, draw a rough sketch of the terrain during the fire support recertification at Fort Carson's Training Area Bravo, Oct. 16, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fire Support Team Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, begin a 12-mile ruck march during their recertification Oct. 18, 2012. The Soldiers had to complete 12 miles in three hours or less to pass. All of the recertification events were scored and the top individual Soldiers and teams were awarded the title "Best FIST."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Jade Ashby (left) and Spc. James Vann, both fire support specialists, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, run to the finish line of a 12-mile ruck march during their fire support team recertification Oct. 18, 2012. The Soldiers had to complete the ruck march in three hours or less. The annual recertification was turned into a competition for "Best FIST."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – First Lieutenant Matthew Zamperini (right), fire support officer, Company B, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, high fives Sgt. 1st Class Spencer Polwart, brigade fire support element noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., as he crosses the finish line of a 12-mile ruck march Oct. 18, 2012. The ruck march was the final task in completing FIST recertification. Soldiers had to complete 12 miles in three hours or less to pass.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Major General Joseph Anderson (right), commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, presents a trophy to Lt. Col. Dave Guthrie (center), commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Vogel, senior enlisted leader, both of 1st Squadron, 10th Calvary Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., for their squadron achieving the highest overall score during the fire support team recertification and competition, at Fort Carson's Veterans Chapel, Oct. 26, 2012. The recertification and competition took place Oct. 15-18, with Soldiers being evaluated on a written test, a physical fitness test, land navigation, a call for fire test and a 12-mile ruck march.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Command Sergeant Major Robert Lehtonen, senior enlisted leader, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, presents a "Best Fist" guidon to Staff Sergeant James Spencer, fire support specialist, C Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th Calvary Regiment, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., for the highest overall score during the brigade's fire support team recertification and competition at Fort Carson's Veterans Chapel, Oct. 26, 2012. Spencer received the Army Achievement and Army Commendation Medals for standing out above his peers during the competition.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers grabbed fresh ingredients and prepared their cooking areas, to put their skills to the test and create an edible delight, during a culinary accreditation class at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6.

Eighteen Soldiers from dining facilities across Fort Carson enrolled in the 45-day cooking course to enhance their culinary skills. Soldiers were assigned to groups of three, where they studied and cooked together throughout the course.

"Fort Carson developed a partnership with Pikes Peak Community College, which helped the culinary accreditation program get approved," said Thomas Schaefer, chef, American Culinary Federation, Pikes Peak Chapter, and an instructor in the course. "I had a proposal that I guess meshed with the commanding general's plan, because he was eager to make this program happen."

Soldiers attended three classes a week; Garde Manger, the preparation of foods such as salads, hors d'oeuvres, pates and terrines; wine and spirits; and hands-on training.

"By taking this course, the Soldiers will gain the experience to create their own products, make dishes from scratch, and mentor the Soldiers they work with so they too can learn different ways to cook," said Schaefer.

In addition to improving their cooking skills, Soldiers also gained college credits toward an Associates degree in Applied Science-Culinary Arts.

"The main reason I took this course is because I wanted to lead by example," said Sgt. 1st Class John Carpenter, senior food operations sergeant, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div. "I wanted to encourage my Soldiers to go ahead and further their career."

Soldiers found recipes from their study book, Garde Manger: The Art and Craft of the Cold Kitchen, and chose a dish to cook and present during their lab.

"I've never done anything like this before, which is why I've learned so much," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 David Geier, food service advisor, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.

Most of the food Soldiers cook in the dining facility are Army recipes, said Geier. With this training, Soldiers can learn how to make their own recipes, and healthier food from scratch.

When they complete their course in January, Soldiers will receive certificates of completion, as well as the opportunity to intern at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort.

The 18 Soldiers have already started to teach their Soldiers when they aren't in class, and will continue to take in what the culinary accreditation course has to offer, until their last day of class.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant Brian Gerstemeier, left, food service sergeant, Troop D, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Staff Sgt. Mark Vickery, middle, food service sergeant, Headquarters and Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., and Sgt. 1st Class Wayne Sutton, senior food operations sergeant, HSC, HHBN, study for their upcoming quiz and try to put together a menu for the hands-on portion of the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Chief Warrant Officer Two David Geier, food service advisor, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, prepares the meat for his group's dish by cubing it, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Chief Warrant Officer Two Elliott Johnson, food service advisor, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, fries yellow peppers for his group's main dish, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Thomas Schaefer, left, chef, American Culinary Federation, Pikes Peak Chapter, and course instructor, gives some advice to Staff Sgt. Brian Gerstemeier, middle, food service sergeant, Troop D, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and Staff Sgt. Mark Vickery, right, food service sergeant, Headquarters and Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., during their hands-on training at the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant David Joseph, food service sergeant, 52nd Engineer Battalion, squeezes oranges into a pitcher so he can make a glaze, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant Mark Vickery, food service sergeant, Headquarters and Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, grabs ingredients for his group's main course, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant First Class Myron Billingsley, senior food operations sergeant, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), adds ingredients into a tray of herbs and spices, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant First Class John Carpenter, senior food operations sergeant, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, mixes together vegetables and shrimp to serve as a side dish, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant Mark Vickery, food service sergeant, Headquarters and Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, delicately arranges plates of salad before he presents them to the instructor, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant First Class John Carpenter, senior food operations sergeant, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, wheels out his group's culinary creation, to be presented to their instructor during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Thomas Schaefer, left, chef, American Culinary Federation, Pikes Peak Chapter, and course instructor, comments on each group's dish and talks about the meal's presentation, during the culinary accreditation course at the Fort Carson Culinary Academy, Oct. 6, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers from the Unmanned Aerial System Platoon, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, recertified on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Sept. 24 through Oct. 5.

'Drones' are an effective tool in today's Army arsenal and Civilian Aeronautic Air Instructors, who led the recertification, ensured the Soldiers were properly trained on all of the updated systems and equipment that came out while the unit was deployed.

When the UAS platoon returned from deployment a few months ago, they turned in all their equipment for service and updates to AAI as part of the reset.

"The equipment went through their systems and if there were any new updates, then they added them to the UAV and they re-serviced all the aircraft, ground shelters and antennas," said Staff Sgt. Benjamin Harvey, unmanned aerial vehicle operator, Company A, 2nd STB, 2nd BCT. "Anything that's broken, they fix it and get it back to us."

Now that all of their equipment is up-to-date, the Soldiers had to recertify.

The civilian instructors informed the Soldiers of any changes to the rules and regulations that govern UAVs and how to comply with them, said Harvey.

"The software updates are the most changing aspect of the UAV so they make sure we understand it," he added.

The first week of training is classroom instruction and the second week is field training on launching, recovering and flying the UAVs.

There are no tests required to certify, but Soldiers must prove their proficiency by meeting certain steps and performing certain actions.

"Soldiers must successfully show competence in the different aspects of the flight: launch, recover and flight," Harvey said.

For new Soldiers, this is an opportunity to get hands-on-training and implement it in actual flight time.

"To actually be here with my unit working, launching 'birds' and doing my job, it means a lot," said Pfc. Ryan Golden, unmanned aircraft systems repairer, Company A, 2nd STB.

Not only are civilians instructing, but recently redeployed Soldiers are helping new Soldiers with lessons learned downrange.

"The training I'm getting from the experienced people who came from downrange is so useful," Golden said. "I'm learning so much; there is a lot to take in."

This training is not only beneficial to new Soldiers, but veterans as well.

"This is kind of like riding a bike, you don't forget it, but you do get very rusty," Harvey said. "So being able to come out and get hands on the equipment is good."

"In our job, you have to stay current because things are always changing and this is one of the ways we stay current," said Spc. Nolan Barr, unmanned aerial vehicle operator, Company A.

Not only are Soldiers receiving their recertification training, but the platoon benefits as well.

"Since we've redeployed, there has been a lot of changes to our platoon with people leaving and others coming in, so this has been a good opportunity to see how everyone works together," Harvey said. "It's nice to see that a lot of our new people are very knowledgeable and everyone seems to be adjusting real well to the new teams."

This has been the first opportunity the platoon has been able to work together on the equipment since redeploying.

"We came together fairly quickly," Golden said. "We had a few months before our equipment came back to get to know each other and get trained up, so once the equipment got here, we hit the ground running."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Ryan Golden, unmanned aircraft systems repairer, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, performs radio checks on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Oct. 4, 2012. Golden along with his company were recertifying their qualifications to work on and operate the UAVs. The certification lasted for two weeks and flying the UAVs was the final part of the recertification.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Ryan Golden, unmanned aircraft systems repairer, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, checks the pulley on the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle launching shuttle during a preflight inspection at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Oct. 4, 2012. The preflight systems checks are essential to a successful launch. There are many pieces working simultaneously, and if any of those pieces are not performing properly the UAV won't launch and could be damaged.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Ryan Golden (left) and Sgt. Jacob Schmitt, both unmanned aircraft systems repairers, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, perform preflight systems checks on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Oct. 4, 2012. The Soldiers launched the UAV as one of the final steps in their recertification. The recertification process lasted two weeks with the first week being in class and the second week being hands-on. Soldiers must prove they understand the knowledge and have the skills to be recertified.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Ryan Golden and Sgt. Jacob Schmitt, both unmanned aircraft systems repairers, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and two civilian instructors watch as an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle speeds up the launching shuttle at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Oct. 4, 2012. The UAV was launched as part of a recertification for the Soldiers. The recertification is a two week process with each Soldier having to accomplish a certain amount of day and night time launches of the UAV.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant Jacob Schmitt, unmanned aircraft systems repairer, and Spc. Nolan Barr, unmanned aerial vehicle operator, both with Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, reset the launching shuttle at Fort Carson's Camp Red Devil, Oct. 4, 2012. The shuttle propels the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles then stops short forcing the UAV into flight. After the UAV is launched the shuttle must be set back to the starting position at the base.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – New or expecting dads may have questions about how to care for the newest member of their Family, such as how to feed, burp, calm down and even develop a bond with their child.

To train dads on the basics of childcare, Army Community Service held its first Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer program Oct. 1. The training focused on Soldiers expecting a child, those who recently had children, and veteran fathers. These Soldiers, in turn, will use their training to help others meet the challenges of parenthood.

"The Train-the-Trainer program is brand new to Fort Carson, and this class is its first facilitator course ever," said Steve Frost, victim advocate coordinator, ACS.

The division headquarters Family violence working group developed Train-the-Trainer to teach parenting skills, and to reduce child abuse at Fort Carson, said Frost.

The course, comprised of three sessions, began with an introduction. Instructors explained what fathers should expect, how to prepare and the fears most fathers get the closer to their child's birth.

"As time goes on, most new dads start to tell themselves, 'I'm not ready to be a dad,' 'I can't take care of a child,' 'I don't know what to do, what if I mess up,'" said Ken Robinson, Family Advocacy Program coordinator, ACS.

This class will help prepare them so those thoughts don't linger and they can focus on being great fathers, said Robinson.

Soldiers also learned about crying, changing diapers, calming babies down and developing father-child bonds.

"The best way to bond with your child is by changing, bathing and feeding them," said Robinson. "It lets the baby know that you are there to care for them, and that they are safe."

During class instruction, facilitators chose Soldiers at random to change the diaper of a simulated baby. Sergeant Kyle Norris, human intelligence collector, Company B, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, changed his very first diaper using the baby.

"I tried to soak up as much knowledge as possible from this class, so I could spread it to my unit and even teach my wife," said Norris. "These are skills that I can definitely apply as a new father."

Facilitators taught Soldiers the five S's, different ways to trigger a baby's calming reflex. This involved swaddling, the side or stomach position, shushing, swinging and jiggling, and sucking.

"I learned a lot from the five S's; I used to do the shushing, but this class taught me that it's supposed to be as loud as the crying, so it acts as white noise and calms the baby," said Pfc. Charles Jones, chemical operations specialist, Company C, 704th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th BCT.

Jones said he also learned that he can combine the methods, like swinging and swaddling or jiggling and shushing.

After a few demonstrations of the five S's, facilitators chose 1st Lt. Dustin Young, executive officer, Forward Support Company, 52nd Engineer Battalion, to swaddle the simulated baby.

"It was definitely harder than it looked," said Young. "Trying to get the blanket wrapped around correctly and making sure it's snug takes practice."

Near the end of their course, the class focused on caring for the mother-to-be. Soldiers learned tips on how to care for their wives and relieve their stress.

The wife is just as important as the baby, so Soldiers need to help out with caring for the child, said Robinson. If the mother is feeling overwhelmed, then the baby won't get the proper care it needs.

After completing the third session, all 35 Soldiers became certified Boot Camp for New Dads instructors. During their last hour in class, facilitators assisted the Soldiers with putting together a class of their own, to teach at their units.

"When I get back to my unit, I'm going to coordinate with my first sergeant to identify the new and expecting dads in my battalion," said Norris. "I want to set aside an afternoon to teach them everything I learned from this class so they will have the knowledge to be great fathers."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – 1st Lt. Dustin Young, executive officer, Forward Support Company, 52nd Engineer Battalion, folds the corners of a blanket in an attempt to swaddle a simulated baby during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at the Army Community Service center, Oct. 1, 2012. "It was definitely harder than it looked," said Young. "Trying to get the blanket wrapped around correctly and making sure it's snug takes practice."

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Ken Robinson, Family Advocacy Program coordinator, Army Community Service, shows the class one of the two simulated babies they will perform hands-on training with, during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at ACS, Oct. 1, 2012. "As time goes on, most new dads start to tell themselves, 'I'm not ready to be a dad,' 'I can't take care of a child,' 'I don't know what to do, what if I mess up,'" said Robinson. This class will help prepare them so those thoughts don't linger and they can focus on being great fathers, he said.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Chris Kaleel, combat engineer, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Engineer Battalion, shows the class the over-the-knee method to burp a baby, during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at the Army Community Service center, Oct. 1, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Steve Frost, victim advocate coordinator, Army Community Service, shows the class the over-the-shoulder method to burp a baby, during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at ACS, Oct. 1, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Sergeant Kyle Norris, human intelligence collector, Company B, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attempts to change a diaper for the first time using a simulated baby, during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at the Army Community Service center, Oct. 1, 2012.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Private First Class Charles Jones, chemical operations specialist, Company C, 704th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, receives a surprise visit from his daughter, Kaedynce, during a Boot Camp for New Dads Train-the-Trainer class held at the Army Community Service center, Oct. 1, 2012.

FOUNTAIN, Colo. – One lucky Fountain, Colo., Family received valuable help when 24 Soldiers of the "Lonestar" Battalion, volunteered their time to help build them a house, Nov. 2.

Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division split into a morning and an afternoon crews and pledged their time to a local nonprofit organization to help build a home by installing insulation, verifying the frame's angles, strengthening the frame, placing studs for a more sound structure, enhancing doorways and installing outside paneling.

The Soldiers not only gave back to the community, but also conducted some common task training.

"It's nice to have something different to do and it's nice to have something to do for the community" said, Sgt. Kyle Iverson, combat engineer, Company C, 2nd STB.

The Family is required to invest 350 to 450 hours of their personal time, to help build the home.

With the assistance of Soldier volunteers, the Family will be able to buy it for what it cost to build, resulting in payments of up to half of what they normally would be, said Gary Blake, construction supervisor for Habitat for Humanity.

For some of the Soldiers, the chance to help was an opportunity they had to take advantage of.

"For me, volunteering helps you build yourself up," said Pvt. Tyler Terry, combat engineer, Company C. "It makes you feel good that you're a part of something bigger."

The Soldiers know that their volunteer work has an impact in the community.

"The fact that I'm helping made me want to come out here," said Terry. "Some people struggle and can't afford a home on the regular market, and this way, we are doing our part."

There are plans by this time next year to have 10 houses built in the Front Range community, and Soldiers are always welcome to help.

"We really appreciate the Soldiers coming out and without them this wouldn't happen," said Blake. "We hope to see them out here again"

FOUNTAIN, Colo. – Private Tyler Terry, combat engineer, Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, braces the wall of a house being built in Fountain, Colo., Nov. 2, 2012. "For me, volunteering helps you build yourself up," said Terry. "It makes you feel that you're a part of something bigger."

FOUNTAIN, Colo. – Specialist David Troiani (left) and Spc. Kyle Iverson and, both combat engineers, Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, install a section of insulation for a home in Fountain, Colo., Nov. 2, 2012. Twenty-Four Soldiers volunteered to build the home, that when complete, will be sold to a local Family at cost. "It's nice to have something different to do and it's nice to have something to do for the community," said Iverson.

FOUNTAIN, Colo. Second Lieutenant Andrew Johnson, 3rd platoon leader, Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, uses a power saw while Spc. Chris Rogers, combat engineer, Company C, holds the 2x4 during the building of a house in Fountain, Colo. Nov. 2, 2012. Twenty-Four Soldiers from the engineer company volunteered to help build the home for a local Family as well as conducted some required common training.

FOUNTAIN, Colo. – Sergeant Brandon Simon, combat engineer, Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, uses a reciprocating saw to cut out a doorway of a house being built in Fountain, Colo., Nov. 2, 2012. Twenty-four Soldiers, who split up into a morning and an afternoon crew, volunteered their time to help build the house by strengthening the frame, verifying frame angles and installing outside paneling.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Running on a treadmill to gain a maximum heart rate of 85 percent, laying down and breathing through a mask to receive a resting metabolic rate and sitting in an egg shaped capsule to test body fat percentage with up to 99 percent accuracy were new experiences for officers and senior noncommissioned officers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, as they took a hands-on look at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center throughout the month of September.

More than 90 "Warhorse" Brigade leaders received information on how to keep Soldiers educated about programs available to them through the AWC, and also received the training first hand.

"We are running through the leadership so they know what resources are available to their Soldiers in the brigade," said Tony Heinz, nurse educator and certified personal trainer with the American College of Sports Medicine.

Leadership took part in three portions of training education; a fitness test aimed to test Vo2 max, which is how much oxygen the body can absorb during cardio respiratory fitness; Bod Pod testing, which uses air displacement to measure a Soldier's body fat percentage and a resting metabolic rate, which tests a Soldier's breathing pattern and lets them know whether they have low, normal or high metabolism.

"The leadership is going through everything," said Heinz. "They are going to know what's available and inform the Soldiers from the top down."

The brigade-wide study is the first of its kind and after all senior leadership has gone through the AWC, they plan to test all overweight Soldier assigned to 2nd BCT.

"We all think we are in better shape than we are," said Master Sgt. Mark Skinner, current operations noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd BCT. "It will help Soldiers and leaders see where they are and how they can get to where they want to be."

Though getting the leadership through the wellness center was the initial focus, the main intent is to help Soldiers become informed.

"(Soldiers) are going to say, ok our battalion commander, command sergeant major and first sergeant have been through this program and they vouch for it and they understand the importance of the program," said Heinz.

Even though the program is unlike normal physical fitness education, the leaders know it is important.

"This is different than taking an Army Physical Fitness Test." said Maj. Sean Heenan, brigade engineer, HHT. "It's more thorough, accurate and scientific. It gives you a better understanding of where you are and how to get better."

Additionally, the AWC offers tobacco cessation classes, which are geared toward helping Soldiers quit smoking, and a massage chair in conjunction with audio and visual stimulation, which provides Soldiers feedback on how to control their breathing resulting in managing stress levels.

For additional information, or to schedule an appointment, contact the AWC at (719) 526-3887, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Major Sean Heenan (left), brigade engineer, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Team, 4th Infantry Division, is coached by Tony Heinz, nurse educator and certified personal trainer with the Army College of Sports Medicine, on proper techniques to test his back strength during a fitness test at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center, Sept. 27, 2012. More than 90 officers and senior noncommissioned officers from the "Warhorse" Brigade went through training which included testing for body fat percentage, the type of metabolism they have and the amount of oxygen taken in during cardio respiratory fitness.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Master Sergeant Mark Skinner, current operations noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, tests the strength of his grip at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center, Sept. 27, 2012. Skinner along with more than 90 senior leaders of the "Warhorse" Brigade participated in the training to gain knowledge of what resources are available at the AWC so they can pass it on to their Soldiers.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Staff Sergeant Matthew Jardine, paralegal specialist, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, is measured by Stepanie Ryan, health educator, at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center, Sept. 27, 2012. Proper height and weight is required to receive the most accurate results from the Bod Pod, a machine that uses air displacement to measure an individual's body fat percentage.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Master Sergeant Mark Skinner, current operations noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, runs on a treadmill to test his Vo2 intake at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center, Sept. 27, 2012. Testing an individual's Vo2 intake will let him or her know the amount of oxygen their body can absorb during cardio respiratory fitness.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Master Sergeant Stephen Acord, brigade intelligence noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, is tested for his resting metabolic rate at Fort Carson's Army Wellness Center, Sept. 27, 2012. Testing a Soldier for his or her resting metabolic rate allows them to find out whether they have a low, normal or high metabolism.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Centennial Elementary School held its Fall Carnival, Sept. 27 with support from Soldiers with 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division who volunteered through the Fort Carson's Adopt-A-School program.

The Soldiers operated games, handed out prizes and interacted with children during the school's annual fundraiser.

"We are really excited to have the support of our Adopt-A-School unit," said Kim Noyes, assistant principal at CES. "Because of their involvement, we are able to provide more games, as well as ensure that we can serve food at the carnival."

Soldiers not only provided manual labor, but also positively influenced the children.

"It means so much to the kids to have Soldiers here helping out," said Stacy Blair, 1st Grade teacher and the title I parent involvement organizer at the school. "The kids love seeing Soldiers in their uniforms and having them around as good role models, someone they can trust."

"It's always nice to have positive role models here in the school to make sure students understand what we are doing here is important," said Noyes.

Not only are children being impacted positively, but Soldiers are reaping benefits as well.

"It feels really good knowing the kids are having fun and enjoying themselves," said Spc. Quenten Martin, radio operator maintainer, Company B, 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. "It's cool because you know when we were kids you always wanted someone who you looked up to come help you do stuff, and now I kind of get to be that hero."

The 2nd STB is partnered with the school through Fort Carson's Adopt-A-School program, which allows Soldiers to volunteer in schools in an effort to positively affect the community.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Quenten Martin, radio operator maintainer, Company B, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, high-fives Dayne Solano, a Kindergartener at Centennial Elementary School, after completing a game during the Fall Carnival, Sept. 27. Soldiers volunteered to help facilitate games, handout prizes and interact with children. The 2nd STB is partnered with CES through Fort Carson's Adopt-A-School program, which allows Soldiers to volunteer in schools as positive role models for the children.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Tiffany Freeze, imagery analyst, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, hops around with Alan Bentura, a Kindergartener at Centennial Elementary School during the Fall Carnival held at the school Sept. 27. Freeze is one of approximately 15 Soldiers who volunteered to help with carnival operating games, passing out prizes and helping with children. CES is paired with 2nd STB through Forth Carson's Adopt-A-School program as a way for Soldiers to positively interact within the community.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Christian Perez, human intelligence collector, Company A, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, hands a ring to Kiona Martin, a 2nd Grader at Centennial Elementary School, in order to play the ring toss game during the schools Fall Carnival, Sept. 27. CES is partnered with 2nd STB through Fort Carson's Adopt-A-School program. Soldiers operated games, passed out prizes and interacted with children as positive role models.

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Specialist Luis Salcedo (left) and Spc. Manuel Vitaliano, both combat engineers, Company C, 2nd Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, watch Betsy Erivez, a 1st Grader at Centennial Elementary School, kick a ball during the Fall Carnival, Sept. 27. The Soldiers volunteered at the school as part of the Fort Carson's Adopt-A-School program designed to pair Soldiers with schools in efforts to positively affect the community. Soldiers ran games and gave prizes to children during the carnival.