Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade Soldiers are scheduled for their final flight to depart Fort Bliss for their deployment to Afghanistan, Feb 13.

The family-members and friends will be bidding farewell to the deploying Soldiers during an informal family time at the 4th Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment Hanger Bay at bldg #11212 from 11:30 p.m. February 12 to 1:30 a.m. February 13.

The 1AD CAB Soldiers will support Operation Enduring Freedom by providing aviation assets for combat, medical evacuation, and troop and equipment transport to U.S., International and Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).

Security Forces are in Afghanistan "to reduce the capability and will of the insurgency, support the growth in capacity and capability of the ANSF, and facilitate improvements in governance and socio-economic development" in order to provide a safe and stable living environment for the Afghan people, according to the ISAF Web site.

For additional information please contact Cpt. King at (915) 204-5914, or at james.j.king32.mil@mail.mil.

To get to the 4th Battalion Hanger Bay, enter the Fort Bliss Biggs Gate from Spur 601, ext. 22 Sergeant Majors Blvd. Take a left onto Biggs St., then right onto CSM E. Slewitzke St. and look for bldg #11212 on the left hand side.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Army Emergency Relief Campaign begins at Fort Bliss, Wednesday, Feb. 6 and continues through April 13. The official start is at 12 noon at the Centennial Banquet & Conference Center, East Fort Bliss.

AER is the Army's emergency financial assistance organization and is dedicated to "Helping the Army Take Care of Its Own."

Monies generated during the AER Campaign provide financial assistance to active duty Soldiers, retired and family members during times of valid emergency need. It also provides interest free loans or grants to those who qualify for financial assistance.

The guest speaker for this year's kickoff is the national AER director Lt. Gen. Robert F. Foley, U.S. Army Retired.

Although the monies received are from local donations, the Dallas Military Community will be donating a check for $5000 presented by Army retired Col. Ben Hobson, former Fort Bliss Chief of Staff.

AER is a non-profit, charitable organization independent of, but closely associated with the United States Army, founded in 1942. The organization is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.

For more information on AER, call 744-2559.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 / 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Team Bliss officials will conduct a Gen. George S. Patton House Dedication at 9a.m., Tuesday, February 5.

During the dedication ceremony at 236 Sheridan Road a history of the home will be presented and a new plaque will be unveiled. Following that, the group will move to 222 Sheridan where the old plaque has been relocated and discuss the findings that this was where Patton lived with his wife and children and unveil the old plaque and dedicate the new home.

Gen. Patton was born November 11, 1885 in San Gabriel, California. He attended the Virginia Military Institute for one year and went on to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point in June , 1909. In 1915, Patton was sent to Fort Bliss where he led routine cavalry patrols. A year later, he accompanied Pershing as an aide on his expedition against Francisco "Pancho" Villa into Mexico.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 / 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — A light-infantry company from the 4th Brigade Combat Team will conduct Combined Arms Live-fire Exercise at the Oro Grande Base Complex Malakand Live-Fire facility, Feb 1, noon to 2 p.m.

The "Highlander" Soldiers will validate the facility using live ammunition in a "danger close" environment. The Soldiers will conduct room clearance drills with real fragmentary grenades and live-ammunition from 5.56 mm and .50 Caliber.

The Soldiers will also request live-fire support from 120-mm indirect fire mortar teams and an M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank.

Media that want to cover this event must wear ear plugs, protective Body Armor and helmets, ballistic eye-goggles to protect against potential fragmentary debris.

The 1st Armored Division PAO has 10 Body Armor vests, 10 helmets, 10 eye goggles and hearing protection to loan to journalists on first-come first-serve basis. Un-protected journalists will be staged further away from the exercise as determined by range safety officials.

ALL Journalists are advised to bring telephoto lenses.

Malakand Live-Fire facility is approximately one hours ride from East Fort Bliss; the 1AD PAO will depart the 1AD Headquarters at 10 a.m., if journalist want to follow.

All media outlets that want to cover these events please contact the 1st Armored Division PAO team for direct link up. You can either call or email the following personnel: Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at (915) 744-8492 or email Kelly.mccargo.mil@mail.mil Staff Sgt. Kevin Allen at (915) 744-8437 or email Kevin.r.allen34.mil@mail.mil

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss officials will conduct a grand opening ceremony for the Fort Bliss Tax Center, at 930a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 22.

Fort Bliss volunteers will prepare FREE federal and state tax returns in two locations. Building 2910, Cassidy Rd. (west Bliss) near Stout Gym and Building AR403, Sergeant Major Blvd., (east Bliss) across from division headquarters; both locations will accept walk-ins in the morning and scheduled appointments in the afternoons.

Fort Bliss Tax Centers specialize in providing military-specific tax information and preparation and provide free services for all active-duty, activated reservists, military retirees and military family members.

The centers will begin preparing taxes Tuesday at 1 p.m. Hours of operation will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and training holidays. Saturdays the centers will be open are from Jan. 26 through Feb. 16 and March 24 through April 15.

Both locations are authorized E-file service providers. By e-filing your taxes, you can receive your refund in as little as one week.

To make an appointment at Bldg. 2910, call 568-6737 and 744-9003 for AR403. Last year, the Tax Center saved service members more than $1 million in tax preparation fees.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at CASSIDY Gate at 9a.m. prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 or 471-2772.Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 15th Sustainment Brigade, in cooperation with Fort Bliss, will host a Martin Luther King Jr. birthday observance at the Centennial Conference and Banquet Center, East Fort Bliss, Texas from 11:15 am to 12:15 p.m., Jan. 17.

The observance will include a video presentation, titled "Voices of Bliss," showing how the life and legacy of MLK has impacted many individuals throughout Fort Bliss, a performance by the Replica Child Development Centers Pre-K "Strong Beginnings" class, and guest speaker, retired Sgt. Maj. Nathan Mack.

If you would like to cover the event, please contact the 15th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office NCOIC: Staff Sgt. Casey McGeorge at 915-328-4193 (casey.j.mcgeorge.mil@mail.mil) or Public Affairs Sergeant Erik Thurman, at (915) 253-1463 (erik.a.thurman.mil@mail.mil) before 9 a.m., Jan. 17, 2013.

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All media must be at Biggs Gate by 10:30 a.m., Jan. 17., for media escort. For more information please call Staff Sgt. Casey McGeorge at (915) 328-4193 or 741-2750.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss is scheduled to host a Pre-Best Ranger Competition here, Jan 15-17, to identify primary and alternate "Ranger Buddy" teams to represent Fort Bliss at the 30th Annual David E. Grange Best Ranger Competition.

The 72 hour course here is designed to mimic the actual "tough and grueling" BRC competition at Fort Benning, according to the 1AD command.

The 1AD command is designing the course to "physically, mentally and proficiently" prepare Soldiers for the competition at Fort Benning, Ga., April 12-14.

Active and Reserve Soldiers, assigned to Fort Bliss units will form two-Soldier teams and complete the entire pre-BRC together in the allotted amount of time. The Soldiers will not be allowed to sleep during the three-day course.

If one member of the team does not complete the course then the team is disqualified. Historically the actual competition has about a 60-percent attrition rate due to the complexity of the course and the physical toll on the Soldiers competing. During the 2012 BRC it was estimate that 28 Soldiers, out of 68, completed the course.

Media outlets are invited to the following events:
Obstacle Course, Jan. 15, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Military Skills Evaluations (prepare weapons and equipment for operation), Jan. 16, 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Blind-folded Combat Water Survival Assessment, Jan. 17, 3:30 a.m Closing Ceremony/1st and 2nd place announcements, Jan. 17, 7 a.m.

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All media outlets that want to cover these events please contact the 1st Armored Division PAO team for direct link up. You can either call or email the following personnel: Maj. Joe Buccino at 744-8406 or email joseph.p.buccino.mil@mail.mil Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at (915) 744-8492 or email Kelly.mccargo.mil@mail.mil Staff Sgt. Kevin Allen at (915) 744-8437 or email Kevin.r.allen34.mil@mail.mil

FORT BLISS, TEXAS —Fort Bliss officials have declared personnel will be released at 11 a.m. today (Jan. 3) due to severe weather conditions. For tomorrow (Jan. 4), only key and essential personnel are to report for duty.

Information concerning medical appointments and facilities associated with William Beaumont Army Medical Center will be forthcoming.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS —The 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss will host players and staff from the University of Southern California Trojans and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during a tour here Dec. 27, from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Each team will be welcomed to the installation by the First Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, and will then receive training on the Engagement Skills Trainer 2000 and the Close Combat Tactical Trainer. Additionally, all players will receive a hands-on tutorial of the M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank, the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and various small-arms weapons Fort Bliss Soldiers use in Afghanistan.

The Engagement Skills Trainer 2000 is a large-screen simulator which allows Soldiers to improve rifle marksmanship in a virtual combat scenario. All Sun Bowl players will go through a realistic Afghanistan-based scenario. The Close Combat Tactical Trainer is a simulator that links platoon and company-size Tank and Bradley crews together and offers multiple scenarios they must overcome to enhance their training. All Soldiers incorporate simulator based training into a complex regime prior to deploying overseas.

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All media outlets desiring to cover this event must be at Global Reach Gate by 2 p.m., Dec 27., for media escort. For more information please call Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at (915) 781-3143 or 744-8498.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS —Fort Bliss and the 1st Armored Division are pleased to announce that today the post achieved a major milestone by going 100 consecutive days without a preventable Soldier death.

This is the first time Fort Bliss has reached this milestone since the 1st Armored Division uncased its colors at Fort Bliss. A preventable Soldier death is a loss incurred by means other than combat injuries that could have been avoided by taking realistic, proactive measures to prevent. Examples of preventable deaths are suicides, drug overdose or vehicular accidents cause from fatigue or impairment.

In addition, Fort Bliss is now statistically the safest major military installation in the Army, with the lowest per capacity suicide rate and the lowest rate of training and vehicular accidents per square mile.

In recognition of the 100-day milestone, Major General Dana J.H. Pittard, commander of Fort Bliss and the First Armored Division, established Monday, February 4, 2013, the day after the Super Bowl, as an installation-wide training holiday. Further, Major General Pittard will establish training holidays for every additional 50 days Fort Bliss incurs no preventable deaths. Fort Bliss has more than 28,700 active duty servicemembers, more than 3,700 transitional military servicemembers, and more than 1,600 reserve and National Guard servicemembers. The installation, with 4,600 square miles of land, is the nation's largest Army post by physical size.

Fort Bliss attained this safety standard through the implementation of a "No Preventable Deaths Campaign" that is a multilayer, multifaceted post-wide effort involving leaders, Soldiers, Family Members, professionals, processes, procedures and policies all interacting together to achieve the campaign goal.

Major General Pittard's goal is to ensure Fort Bliss becomes the healthiest, fittest and most resilient post in the Army. To accomplish this he has initiated many new and innovative processes to compliment Army requirements. One of those is the Wellness Fusion Campus (WFC). The WFC covers about one square mile on West Fort Bliss and among other things, provides a variety of assessments, education and treatment for Soldiers, Family Members and Department of the Army Civilians. All newly-arriving Soldiers attend a two-day Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or A.S.I.S.T., at the Wellness Fusion Campus, which helps Soldiers identify potentially suicidal behavior and prevent suicide in fellow Soldiers.

Additionally, Major General Pittard credits the city of El Paso with assisting in this effort. "El Paso is the largest city in the U.S. adjacent to a major military installation," said Pittard. "El Paso is also the safest city with a population over 500,000 in America. "We are one community growing together," he said. "El Paso is Fort Bliss and Fort Bliss is El Paso."

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss and the 1st Armored Division are pleased to announce that today the post achieved a major milestone by going 100 consecutive days without a preventable Soldier death.

This is the first time Fort Bliss has reached this milestone since the 1st Armored Division uncased its colors at Fort Bliss. A preventable Soldier death is a loss incurred by means other than combat injuries that could have been avoided by taking realistic, proactive measures to prevent. Examples of preventable deaths are suicides, drug overdose or vehicular accidents cause from fatigue or impairment.

In addition, Fort Bliss is now statistically the safest major military installation in the Army, with the lowest per capacity suicide rate and the lowest rate of training and vehicular accidents per square mile.

In recognition of the 100-day milestone, Major General Dana J.H. Pittard, commander of Fort Bliss and the First Armored Division, established Monday, February 4, 2013, the day after the Super Bowl, as an installation-wide training holiday. Further, Major General Pittard will establish training holidays for every additional 50 days Fort Bliss incurs no preventable deaths. Fort Bliss has more than 28,700 active duty servicemembers, more than 3,700 transitional military servicemembers, and more than 1,600 reserve and National Guard servicemembers. The installation, with 4,600 square miles of land, is the nation's largest Army post by physical size.

Fort Bliss attained this safety standard through the implementation of a "No Preventable Deaths Campaign" that is a multilayer, multifaceted post-wide effort involving leaders, Soldiers, Family Members, professionals, processes, procedures and policies all interacting together to achieve the campaign goal.

Major General Pittard's goal is to ensure Fort Bliss becomes the healthiest, fittest and most resilient post in the Army. To accomplish this he has initiated many new and innovative processes to compliment Army requirements. One of those is the Wellness Fusion Campus (WFC). The WFC covers about one square mile on West Fort Bliss and among other things, provides a variety of assessments, education and treatment for Soldiers, Family Members and Department of the Army Civilians. All newly-arriving Soldiers attend a two-day Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, or A.S.I.S.T., at the Wellness Fusion Campus, which helps Soldiers identify potentially suicidal behavior and prevent suicide in fellow Soldiers.

Additionally, Major General Pittard credits the city of El Paso with assisting in this effort. "El Paso is the largest city in the U.S. adjacent to a major military installation," said Pittard. "El Paso is also the safest city with a population over 500,000 in America. "We are one community growing together," he said. "El Paso is Fort Bliss and Fort Bliss is El Paso."

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Seven Gold Star Families are benefitting from the generosity of Operation Giveback during a Christmas party at the Fort Bliss Survivors Outreach Services building, 6:30 p.m., Dec. 20.

The Fort Bliss Survivors Outreach Services, host of the Christmas Party, provided the names of seven families (total of 12 children) to receive these wonderful gifts from Operation Giveback. At the party each child will receive a gift.

Operation Giveback, an organization based out of Orlando, Florida, created their Christmas Project Program to assist Gold Star Families during the Christmas Holiday period, providing Families with $200 per child.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: Media planning on covering this event must be at the Cassidy Gate staging area 30 minutes prior to the event for escort to the Fort Bliss SOS Facility. Coordinate media coverage at 568-2497/4601. Please call and confirm your participation / attendance.

Operation Giveback's website is http://www.operation-giveback.com

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss ceremonial units will participate in Saturday's Wreaths Across America Dedication Ceremony at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery. These units include the Joint Task Force-North Color Guard, Ceremonial Rifle Team and a bugler from the 1st Armored Division Band.

Wreaths Across America is a national effort to Remember, Honor and Teach about sacrifices by our veterans. In December 2011, over 500 participating locations hosted Wreaths Across America ceremonies overseeing the placement of wreaths on the graves of those who served and sacrificed for our freedoms. This year there are over 750 participating locations

The El Paso Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol, hosts the event at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery at 9:45 a.m. Last year's event yielded over 5,000 wreaths placed at FBNC. Organizers hope to place at least 6,000 wreaths this year.

Event is free and open to the public.

For more information on Wreaths Across America, contact the Civil Air Patrol, 239-6149, or visit www.epwreaths.org or www.wreathsacrossamerica.org .

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Editor's Note: Media interested in covering this event should fax a written request to the Fort Bliss National Cemetery, fax 564-3746. Written request only need say that your organization would like to be present at the Wreaths Across America, Dec. 15, 9:45 a.m.

Point of contact for the local event is Lt. Col. Debra Torres, CAP, 239-6149.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Fort Bliss Chaplaincy and Team Bliss will conduct the posts first ever Posada (traditional Mexican procession) beginning at 5p.m., Thursday, Dec 13.

The Posada will form in front of the Survivors Outreach Services building 241 Sheridan Road (to the right of Cassidy Gate entrance). The Posada recreates the journey of Mary and Joseph seeking overnight accommodations and being turned away again and again.

The procession will move from the start point south on Sheridan Road to Center Chapel #1 and a nativity display.

Once the Posada is complete all participants are invited to attend a fellowship in building 440 Merritt Road, at the Religious Activities Center. Participants will be provided with cookies and other snacks along with hot and chilled refreshments. This event is FREE and open to the public.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate at 430pm for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage, with Virginia Reza, at 449-6095. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Please join the 11th Air Defense Artillery, "Imperial" Brigade in welcoming home Soldiers with 5th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery from their year-long deployment to Southwest Asia where they have been providing missile defense capabilities to the region with the Patriot weapon system. This is the second and last flight for this redeployment. The Soldiers will be arriving at the Departure/Arrival Airfield Control Group (DAACG), December 12, 8:00 a.m.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at the Chaffee Gate staging area no later than 7:45a.m. for escort to the DAACG.

Media escorts will depart the gate at 7:45 a.m., so please don't be late. Coordinate media coverage with 11th ADA Brigade's PAO at (254) 423-5936. Please call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — William Beaumont Army Medical Center (WBAMC) was put on lockdown Monday afternoon, 10 December after the First Light Federal Credit Union branch there received a threatening phone call from a customer.

The situation was resolved quickly and competently by the Fort Bliss Directorate of Emergency Services and Military Police. The facility has resumed normal operations. There was no immediate danger to any servicemembers, Medical Center personnel, or civilians.

In accordance with its policy, the Medical Center notified the proper authorities and began emergency procedures.

The individual responsible for the call is not believed to be a servicemember nor a current Department of Defense, Fort Bliss, or WBAMC employee.

At approximately 1315, William Beaumont Army Medical Center resumed normal operations. Those individuals who missed appointments due to the lockdown are encouraged to reschedule.

Local law enforcement officials are searching for the individual.

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Additional queries should be directed to Maj. Joseph Buccino at joeseph.p.buccino.mil@mail.mil or (915) 744-8406.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Please join the 11th Air Defense Artillery, "Imperial" Brigade in welcoming home Soldiers with 5th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery from their year-long deployment to Southwest Asia where they have been providing missile defense capabilities to the region with the Patriot weapon system. The Soldiers will be arriving at the Departure/Arrival Airfield Control Group (DAACG), December 10, late morning.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at the Chaffee Gate staging area 30 minutes prior to the event for escort to the DAACG. Coordinate media coverage at 568-3321 or (254) 423-5936. Please call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 1st Armored Division Band presents "Sun City Holiday Fiesta," concert Dec. 9, at 2:00 p.m., Magoffin Auditorium, University of Texas at El Paso campus.

The 1AD Band's partners in education, the Mighty Rockets from Irvin High School music department, will also perform alongside their military mentors.

The event will include a variety of music from concert band holiday classics to mariachi and rock styles. It will also incorporate audience participation and a visit from Santa Claus.

The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. for ticket holders and 1:30 p.m. for non-ticketed patrons. Tickets will be available Nov. 20 at the Fort Bliss Public Affairs Offices at Bldg. 15, Slater Road, West Fort Bliss and 1AD Headquarters on East Bliss, as well as at the ITR ticket office at Freedom Crossing. For more information call 568-2263 or 568-4601.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Commanding General of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, will present the Purple Heart Medal to family members of the late, Pvt. Juan C. Marquez, 67 years after being discharged from the U.S. Army.

The medal that was never presented, but is mentioned in his discharge, is the Purple Heart for shrapnel wounds received during battle.

For the past three years the Marquez family has endeavored to receive the Purple Heart and get other medals re-issued. Receiving the medals is El Paso Representative Marisa Marquez, the granddaughter of Pvt. Marquez.

During World War II Marquez served as a rifleman in the 44th Infantry Division, 3rd Battalion, 7st Regiment in both France and Italy, when he was wounded.

Other awards being re-presented are the: Good Conduct Medal, European/African/Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon and two Bronze Stars.

Pvt. Marquez joined the U.S. Army in January 1944, was deployed to the European Theater of Operations and was discharged in July 1945. Three years after leaving the army, August 1948, he was fatally struck by an automobile in El Paso.

The medals presentation is at 11a.m., Friday, Dec 7, at the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Headquarters, East Fort Bliss.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate 1030a.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage with MSG McCargo at 744-8492/781-3143. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Everyone is invited to attend the Fort Bliss 2012 Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, December 6, at 5 p.m. in front of Chapel One at the Arlene P. Cain Tree.

The 1st Armored Division Band will perform musical holiday favorites outside Chapel One, beginning at 4:45 p.m. Among the variety of musical tunes, the concert will include sing-a-longs and special guests by the Fort Bliss Center Chapel One Choir.

Immediately following the Tree Lighting ceremony, there will be an appearance by Santa followed by warm drinks and cookies.

This event is FREE and open to the public and everyone is invited to attend.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate at 4:30 pm for escort to the site.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 1st Armored Division, 1st Brigade Combat Team has scheduled a "Color-Casing" ceremony, officially marking the departure of the unit to Afghanistan. The event is 10a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 5 at Ready First Field, East Bliss.

More than 1st BCT 2,000 Soldiers will join a combined military coalition comprised of more than 62 nations focused on promoting a secure and stable region.

The "Ready First" Soldiers, along with Coalition and Afghan security forces, will perform several different missions oriented to respond to crises, and defeat hostile extremists.

"Ready First" will work with the International Security Forces to assist the Afghan government through mentoring, training and equipping as U.S. Forces continue a responsible transfer of security to the Afghan National Security Forces.

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For more information about the ceremony contact the Ready First PAO Cpt. Jennifer Dyrcz at 915-202-5174 or the PAO NCOIC Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Wilbanks at (915) 744-4490. MEDIA interested in covering this event must be at Global Reach Gate at 930 a.m. and depart at 9:45a.m. for escort to the site. PAO escort is Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 781-3143.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's National Chamber Foundation will host "Hiring Our Heroes – Fort Bliss/El Paso" a hiring fair for spouses of active duty, guard, reserves, and retired veterans. The event is part of the Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Business Alliance presented by Capital One, which brings together 10 of the top non-profits in the country dedicated to improving the lives of working military spouses by lifting them out of unemployment and underemployment. Participating companies range from America's biggest employers to dozens of small companies from across the region with jobs available for military spouses of all levels of experience.

Since its launch in March 2011, Hiring Our Heroes has held more than 360 hiring fairs nationwide, helping more than 14,100 veterans and military spouses find employment. Tuesday's event is also part of Hiring 500,000 Heroes, a national campaign announced by the U.S. Chamber, National Chamber Foundation, and Capital One, to engage the business community in committing to hire 500,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2014.

AVAILABLE TO PRESS:
Noreen O'Neil, Deputy Director, Military Spouse Program, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; and active duty military spouse

WHAT: Hiring Our Heroes – Fort Bliss/El Paso

WHEN: Tuesday, December 4, 2012
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. MST

WHERE: The Centennial Club
Bldg. 11199, Sgt. E. Churchill St., East Fort Bliss, TX 79916

RSVP: Interested employers and job seekers should register for free at hoh.greatjob.net.

Walk-in job seekers are allowed.

Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend. To register, e-mail bgoettel@uschamber.com or call 202-463-5961.

This hiring event is being held in partnership with Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), the Department of Labor Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS), Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, The American Legion and other local partners.

The National Chamber Foundation (NCF), a non-profit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is dedicated to identifying and fostering public debate on emerging critical issues.

They provide business and government leaders with insight and resources to address tomorrow's challenges.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Media representatives interested in covering this ceremony should call the WSMR Public Affairs Office, 678-1134, by 2 p.m., November 29.

What: 2nd Engineer Battalion Burning of the Colors Ceremony
When: Nov. 30, 2012 at 7 p.m. - Media representatives need to arrive at the WSMR gate by 6:45 p.m.
Where: 2nd Engineer Battalion Parade Field - White Sands Missile Range

White Sands Missile Range, N.M., Nov. 15, 2012 - The battalion is honoring the 2nd Engineer Battalion Korean War veterans who were at Kunu-Ri when the battalion commander, Lt. Col. Alarich Zacherle ordered the Burning of the Colors and equipment before being overrun by the Chinese. The ceremony will be a re-enactment of the events that took place on Nov 30, 1950.

The public is invited to a reenactment of a significant moment in military history at White Sands Missile Range on Nov. 30 at 7 p.m., when the 2nd Engineer Battalion observes the Burning of the Colors.

During the Korean Conflict the Battalion sailed with the 2nd Infantry Division from Fort Lewis, Wash. The Division was committed soon after landing at Pusan and spearheaded a drive north to the Yalu River where the Communist Chinese Intervention began. The immensity of the Chinese attack soon forced the Division to withdraw down the peninsula. During this action the 2nd Engineers were ordered to fight a delaying action while the rest of the Division fell back to regroup. From Nov. 25 through 30, 1950 the Battalion fought off the advancing Chinese before it was overwhelmed at Kunu-Ri. After burning and destroying all usable equipment, the few men still alive were captured by the Communist Forces.

It was during this costly action that the tradition of the burning of the colors originates. Outnumbered and seeing that they were about to be overrun by the Chinese, Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Alarich Zacherle gave the order to burn the battalion's flag to prevent it from being captured by the enemy.

On Nov. 30 the 2nd Engineer Battalion Soldiers honor this event by reenacting the Burning of the Colors. This is the unit's way of remembering their history and inspiring their Soldiers to fight as bravely as their predecessors did in Korea.

The ceremony commemorates the sacrifice and dedication of the Soldiers of the battalion on that day, many of whom were killed or captured during this battle.

If Media are interested in attending please contact: The WSMR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE No later than Thursday Nov. 29, 2012 by 2pm 678-1134

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The commanding general of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard along with Freedom Crossing officials, will host a "Tree Lighting" ceremony at Freedom Crossing, tomorrow at 530p.m. (actual tree lighting at 6p.m.)

Join Family and MWR (morale, welfare & recreation) for the Night of Dancing Lights, games, live music, train rides, bungee jumping, face painting and much more all at Freedom Crossing.

This marks the third Christmas for the new mall, the largest in the Department of Defense.

The event will be festive and colorful and is FREE and open to the public.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate 5pm for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Fort Bliss recycling program has reached the goal of $1 million of revenue from recyclables for fiscal 2012. A check presentation will be made at 9a.m. tomorrow at the Centennial Banquet & Conference Center, East Fort Bliss.

The $1million program began in February 2012 and over a three month period raised $335, 000. The recycling program collected everything from paper to cardboard, plastics and aluminum, computers and other items.

The revenue generated by the recycling program is given to Morale, Welfare and Recreation to benefit the Fort Bliss community, which in turns helps Soldiers and their families.

Some projects the money may be used for include new shades for Replica Aquatic Center, spin bikes at the gyms and other equipment and playgrounds in the housing areas.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — In observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, Thursday, Nov 22, administrative offices at Fort Bliss will be closed, except for emergency services, military police, security, and EMS. The Exchange will be CLOSED and will reopen at 4am Friday with line-up at 2am. and open at 6a.m. Saturday with line-up at 4am. The Commissary will be CLOSED, normal hours resume Friday. At Freedom Crossing several stores and restaurants will be open on Thanksgiving including Buffalo Wild Wings and The Grand Theatre. Call in advance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Team Bliss officials will conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony officially reopening the newly remodeled Fort Bliss Welcome Center, Bldg 505, Pershing Road, at 1030a.m., Thursday, Nov 15.

The new Welcome Center will accommodate all Soldiers arriving at Fort Bliss being assigned to the various units of 1st Armored Division.

With this newly remodeled facility everything associated with relocation to Fort Bliss is conducted at one location. The remodeling of the nearly 22,000 square foot building began in Dec. 2010 at a cost of nearly $2.7 million.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate at 10a.m., for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Team Bliss officials will conduct the Fall Joint Armed Forces Motorcycle Safety Rally and Ride at 9a.m. on Thursday, Nov 15. The combined installation event includes motorcycle enthusiasts from Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. The intent of the rally is to promote motorcycle safety to all Active Duty Soldiers, National Guard, Reservists, Retirees, Family Members, DoD and Contract Civilians.

Pre-ride activities will be conducted at The Grand (theater) parking lot at Freedom Crossing. Participants are highly encouraged to complete PRE-REGISTRATION with their motorcycle mentors prior to the event. (Advance registration preferred.)

Rally events include:
• 630a.m. LATE registration
• 8a.m. Opening remarks and guest speakers
• 845a.m. All riders line-up
• 9a.m. Start ride
• 1230p.m. All riders return to Freedom Crossing, RIDE COMPLETE
• 1p.m. Motorcycle rally festivities, entertainment and contests
• 3p.m. Ride and activities complete

Requirements are: Motorcycle driver license, proof of insurance, Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) card, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPD) proper safety equipment/clothing. The event includes give-a-ways, band and a competition. Dress: Military or Civilian Clothing. More information at 744-6865.

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Interested media must be at Cassidy Gate at 8am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8403 or 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — A Regional Contracting Industry Day will be hosted by the El Paso Community College's Contract Opportunities Center and the El Paso Small Business Consortium at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center on November 14, 2012 at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, Bldg. 11199 east Bliss, Ft. Bliss, TX from 8:00am – 4:00pm.

Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC ) customers at Ft. Bliss, contracting entities from regional government installations and other federal agencies have been invited to participate and take advantage of this unique opportunity to make their current and future requirements known. Providers and suppliers of goods and services are encouraged to attend and be introduced to organizations with whom interactions may not have been had before. During matchmaking sessions, business representatives will be able to visit with participating federal agencies or contracting entities.

Government employees as well as business representatives will have the opportunity to attend training sessions that will address current and real time issues. Individuals attending these sessions will learn how the System for Awards Management (SAM) impacts vendor registration and the process to successfully register in SAM; government personnel who engage in acquiring goods and services will learn how to use the system to obtain required information pertaining to potential contractors, providers and suppliers; business owners will be able to become better informed about bonding and insurance requirements associated with federal contracting, and how to obtain them; and will learn how to use Fedbid.com to increase awareness of bidding opportunities.

An additional off site Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) training session will be conducted for government personnel only. Through four (4) two (2) hour sessions persons who participate in the electronic invoicing process, to include inspectors and acceptors, will receive instruction regarding the creation and submission of receiving reports; how to sign and accept documents-principally the combo and the 2-n-1 invoice for services; how to research/locate data and information in WAWF and much more.

The WAWF instruction will be presented by a consulting firm that was one of the initial contractors for Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in the launching and initial implementation of WAWF. The training will be held at the El Paso Community College Administrative Services Center November 14, 2012 at 9050 Viscount, Bldg. B., Rm. 324. Sessions will be held from 8:00am – 9:50am, 10:00am – 11:50am, 1:00am – 2:50pm and 3:00pm – 4:50pm. There is no charge for government employees to attend.

Attendance to the Regional Contracting Industry Day is free but pre-registration is required for the event at the Centennial Conference Center and the off - site WAWF training. Registration forms may be accessed on line at www.elpascoc.org click on calendar.

For additional information about the Regional Contracting Industry Day contact 915-831-7748, 915-831-7720 or 915-831-7749.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Veterans from throughout the El Paso area will descend on downtown Saturday, Nov 10, for the annual United American Veterans Organization Veterans Day Parade.

The parade starts at 10:45 a.m. from the corner of Myrtle and Florence Streets and winds through the downtown area. The best viewing is at San Jacinto Plaza. Numerous veterans' organizations from throughout the area will participate.

The Fort Bliss Color Guard will lead the parade, followed by the 1st Armored Division Band, Fort Bliss Command Team representatives and a company of marching Soldiers.

The 212th Fires Brigade, 1st Armored Division will provide the Fort Bliss Color Guard and a company of marching Soldiers.

The parade will also include area high school JROTC and bands will also participate.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss Officials and Soldiers will conduct a Veterans Day Ceremony at 2Pm, Thursday, Nov 8 at 1st Armored Division Parade Field, East, Fort Bliss. Theme for this year's event is, "Honoring All Who Served."

The ceremony will honor veterans of the past, present and those still serving the nation.

Veterans Day is dedicated to the extraordinary Americans who protect our freedom in the years past and those who protect it today. Veterans represent the very best of our Nation. Every Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman and Coast Guardsman has earned the lasting gratitude of the American people and their service and sacrifice will be remembered forever.

All El Paso area veterans' organizations, individual veterans, family members, the Fort Bliss community and the public are invited to attend this FREE event. Veteran organizations are encouraged to bring their colors to the ceremony. The community at large is also invited to the ceremony to honor America's veterans.

More than 600 area veterans have been invited and are expected to attend this event.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate at 130pm for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 or 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Fort Bliss NCO Wives Club will hold their annual Holiday Bazaar Nov 3 & 4 at a new location, THE TRADING POST, 1717 Marshall Road (formerly the Commissary). Hours for the event are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Saturday and 11a.m. to 5p.m. Sunday. This event features vendors from the Southwest, and local area, as well as, arts & crafts, antiques, food, fun and much more. Admission is $1, 18 and older, and a free door prize ticket. The event is open to the public.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Season of Giving Community Service Fair, will be held Friday, Nov 2, at 1130a.m. to 130p.m. at Freedom Crossing.

The fair is designed to encourage Soldiers, family members and El Pasoans to get involved in helping others and making a difference. This is an opportunity to discover and learn about volunteer opportunities that are waiting for you and learn about agency holiday needs and the various services that nonprofits and volunteer agencies offer in the community.

Come and learn more about your community and how you can make a difference in making it a better place to live. While there, ENTER TO WIN GIFT CARDS, THANKSGIVING BASKETS and OTHER WONDERFUL ITEMS!!! Just bring a non-perishable item and or new unwrapped toy, and automatically be entered to win!!!

For more information, please contact 915-569-4ACS Ext - 7. This event is ABSOLUTLEY FREE!

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Media planning on covering this event must be at CASSIDY Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS —
WHAT: Congressional Staff Delegation visit.
WHERE: Fort Bliss Range "A" near Rod & Gun Club plus other locations
WHEN: 9-10a.m. Thursday, Oct 11, 2012
WHO: Congressional Staff members representing various members of Congress
WHY: To become more familiar with Fort Bliss, the 1st Armored Division, the various training capabilities and numerous opportunities to receive hands on training while at the post.

ADDITIONAL INFO: A delegation of 60 congressional staffers will visit Fort Bliss and 1st Armored Division Oct 10-12, 2012, to learn about the training facilities at the Army's premier installation and experience life as a Soldier preparing for deployment. The staffers work in the offices of senators and representatives from both sides of the aisle, as well as congressional offices and committees such as the Senate Armed Services Committee.

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Select interested media must be ACROSS from CHAFFEE Gate at 845am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8403 or 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division will uncase its brigade colors and conduct a Change of Responsibility ceremony at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8 at the 1st Armored Division Parade Field.

Known as the Bulldog Brigade, the 3rd Brigade was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from September 2011 to July 2012.

During the ceremony, the brigade's colors, and those of its six subordinate battalions, will be unfurled, symbolizing the brigade's official return to Fort Bliss. The flags were cased in a ceremony at Forward Operating Base Shank, Logar Province, Afghanistan July 17, when the brigade completed its mission and transferred authority to the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.

The ceremony will begin with Soldiers wounded in action rejoining their units on the field. The commander of troops will report that the brigade is not complete because the wounded warriors are not present, at which time they will be escorted onto the parade field.

During the ceremony, three of the brigade's battalions will be recognized for 65 percent or more of assigned Soldiers receiving combat badges. The 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment and 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment will each receive the Combat Infantry Battalion streamer. More than 65 percent of Soldiers assigned to these units have received the Army's Combat Infantryman Badge. The 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion will receive the Combat Action Battalion streamer. More than 65 percent of its Soldiers have received the Army's Combat Action Badge.

Twenty companies from the 3rd Brigade have received company-level streamers indicating that more than 65 percent of assigned Soldiers have received the Combat Infantryman Badge, Combat Action Badge or Combat Medical Badge. Soldiers earn these coveted awards for supporting operations in direct combat with the enemy.

After the ceremonial uncasing of the brigade's colors, Command Sgt. Maj. Richard H. Capps will relinquish responsibilities as the 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division command sergeant major. Capps' next assignment will be as the command senior enlisted advisor of Joint Task Force Civil Support at Fort Eustis, Va.

A native of Tallahassee, Fla., Capps entered the U.S. Army on Oct. 31, 1984. As an armor crewman, he has served at all enlisted levels with numerous units and deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Capps served as the brigade's command sergeant major throughout the unit's training and deployment to Operation Enduring Freedom.

Media interested in participating should be at the GLOBAL REACH GATE no later than 830am

For more information please contact Maj. Joe Buccino at 744-8426or Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492.

Directions to Fort Bliss Global Reach Gate: From US-54 (Patriot Freeway) exit at Loop 601; Take Global Reach Gate and enter Fort Bliss.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Commanding General of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, the commander of the 93rd Military Police Battalion, Lt. Col Richard Ball and members of the 93rd Military Police Battalion will conduct a memorial for six MP Soldiers, at 1030am, Wednesday, Aug 8, at 1st Armored Division Chapel, East Fort Bliss.

The six Soldiers part of the 978th Military Police Company are: Staff Sgt. Ricardo Seija, Spc. Erica P. Alecksen, Spc. Clarence Williams III, Pfc. Trevor B. Adkins, Pfc. Alejandro J. Pardo, Pfc. Cameron J. Stambaugh, they all died of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device.

Seija, 31, of Tampa, Fla., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army January 2000. He was previously stationed at Fort Riley, Kan., Darmstadt, Germany, Fort Rucker, Ala., Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, Camp Humphreys, Korea, and Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. His military education includes Senior, Advanced and Warrior Leaders Courses, Non-Lethal Weapons Instructors Course, Domestic Violence Intervention Training, Special Reaction Team Training, and Combat Life Savers Course. Seija's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal-Third Award, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with Numeral 3, and the Driver and Mechanic Badge. He is survived by his spouse and one child.

Alecksen, 21, of Eatonton, Ga., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army from Atlanta, Ga., March 2010. She was previously stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Fort Gillem, Ga. Alecksen's awards and decorations include the National Treaty Organization Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, and the Army Service Ribbon. She is survived by her spouse.

Williams, 23, of Brooksville, Fla., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army from Tampa, Fla., March 2010. His previous assignment includes Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. His awards and decorations include the National Treaty Organization Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

Adkins, 21, of Spring Lake, N.C., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army August 2010. His previous assignment includes Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. His awards and decorations include the National Treaty Organization Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star.

Pardo, 21, of Porterville, Calif., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army from Oakland, Calif., July 2009. His previous assignment includes Camp Walker, Korea, Yongsan, Korea, and Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. His military education includes the Combat Life Savers Course. His awards and decorations include the National Treaty Organization Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star.

Stambaugh, 20, of Spring Grove, Pa., was a Military Policeman (MOS 31B) who entered the Army from Harrisburg, Pa., August 2010. His previous assignment includes Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. His awards and decorations include the National Treaty Organization Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star.

Soldiers from the 978th MP Company deployed to Southwest Asia in February 2012 to advise and mentor Host Nation police and protect coalition forces through security and mobility support operations.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 / 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — More than 330 Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division will be arriving here following their deployment to Wardak and Logar Provinces in Eastern Afghanistan.

The next flight is scheduled to touch down at Biggs Army Airfield at 12:40 A.M. Sunday, July 29 (after midnight). This is the FINAL LARGE GROUP from 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division returning from Afghanistan.

The Soldiers are part of the 'Bulldog' Brigade that deployed from Fort Bliss in September 2011. Over the course of their 10-month deployment, the Bulldog Soldiers conducted combat operations and partnered with advised, and mentored Afghan National Army soldiers and Afghan police.

During the deployment more than 230 Soldiers in 3/1AD were wounded in action by enemy forces and earned the Purple Heart Medal. Also, more than 35 Soldiers earned awards for Valor during the deployment.

https://www.facebook.com/BulldogBrigade

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard will accept the LivingWorks Award of Excellence on behalf of Team Bliss on July 26, at 3 p.m., Hope Chapel.

Fort Bliss is the first installation to receive the award for exceeding Army standards on best practice of community service; exemplary delivery of applied suicide intervention skills training to more than 11,000 Soldiers and civilians; and its commitment towards a suicide-safer community for Fort Bliss. Immediately following ceremony, a tour of the Wellness Fusion Campus will be provided. The Wellness Fusion Campus strives to make Team Bliss the healthiest, most fit and resilient community in the world.

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Media interested in covering ceremony, be at Cassidy Gate, 2:30, Thursday, July 26. To coordinate media, call 744-8432.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — ***THIS INFORMATION BELOW IS JUST AN ANNOUNCEMENT...OUR HIGHER PRIORITY FOR MEDIA IS THE LIVINGWORKS AWARD AND WELLNESS FUSION CAMPUS TOUR TOMORROW, JULY 26***

More Fort Bliss Soldiers returning from Afghanistan

FORT BLISS, Texas —300 Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division will be arriving here following their deployment to Wardak and Logar Provinces in Eastern Afghanistan.

The next flight is scheduled to touch down at Biggs Army Airfield at 4:00 pm Thursday, July 21. Following Thursday's arrival, there will be several more return flights to ferry the nearly 900 Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division currently in Afghanistan.

The Soldiers are part of the 'Bulldog' Brigade that deployed from Fort Bliss in September 2011. Over the course of their 10-month deployment, the Bulldog Soldiers conducted combat operations and partnered with advised, and mentored Afghan National Army soldiers and Afghan police.

During the deployment more than 230 Soldiers in 3/1AD were wounded in action by enemy forces and earned the Purple Heart Medal. Also, more than 35 Soldiers earned awards for Valor during the deployment.

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NOTE1: Sgt. Barry St. Clair at Cell: 804-714-8809 bstcl87@yahoo.com will photograph the flight arrival event and will send photos upon request.

NOTE2: Major Caggins will be departing Fort Bliss on August 13. Please send future emails/questions to his replacement Major Joseph Buccino at joseph.p.buccino.mil@mail.mil

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — More than 15,000 Fort Bliss Soldiers and civilians are scheduled to participate in the semi-annual Team Bliss Run here, July 20 from 6:30 a.m. to about 7:30 a.m.

Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, the Commanding General of 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss will lead the entire installation run formation, followed by a military Color Guard team and his headquarters staff.

About 16 Active and Reserve U.S. Army organizations and representatives from the German Air Force are scheduled to participate in the run.

Each organization will arrange runners into military "formations" with a commander and a guidon bearer at the lead of the formation. A guidon bearer is a Soldier who carries the organization's standard, or "flag", during organizational runs, combat during earlier times and official ceremonies.

Traditionally organization's noncommissioned officers run on the left side of the formation to synchronize runners and sing military cadences. Cadences are military songs which runners respond to in unison; generally the louder the response, the more "passion" of the organization.

Commanders generally use military runs to demonstrate organizational esprit de corps and also to gauge Soldiers physical fitness and camaraderie.

The Fort Bliss Installation Run is meant to unify the post into a cohesive team and fighting force.

Several Fort Bliss units are currently deployed in Afghanistan and the Middle East.

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MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: Media interested in participating should be at the GLOBAL REACH GATE no later than 5:30 a.m. July 20 due to imposed traffic road blocks.

For more information please contact Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492/915-781-3143 or Maj. Myles B. Caggins III at 744-8498/Cell: 254-371-5704.

Directions to Fort Bliss Global Reach Gate: From US-54 (Patriot Freeway) exit at Loop 601; Take Global Reach Gate. and enter Fort Bliss.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Six Fort Bliss Soldiers supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died July 8, in Maidan Shahr, Wardak province, Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. Ricardo Seija, Spc. Erica P. Alecksen, Spc. Clarence Williams III, Pfc. Trevor B. Adkins, Pfc. Alejandro J. Pardo, Pfc. Cameron J. Stambaugh, died of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device. All were assigned to the 978th Military Police Company, 93rd Military Police Battalion, Fort Bliss, Texas.

"We are saddened by the loss of six 978th Military Police Company Soldiers in Eastern Afghanistan earlier this week. They were killed in a blast from an improvised explosive device. Our thoughts and prayers are with their Families, friends, and fellow Soldiers," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — 300 Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division will be arriving here following their deployment to Wardak and Logar Provinces in Afghanistan.

The Soldiers are scheduled to touch down at Biggs Army Airfield at 8:30 pm on Friday, July 6. An updated time will be given no later than 12 hours prior to touchdown due to operational security concerns.

The Soldiers are part of the 'Bulldog' Brigade that deployed from Fort Bliss in September 2011. They are the first BCT with 1st Armored Division to serve in Afghanistan. Over the course of their 10-month deployment, the Bulldog Soldiers partnered and conducted joint operations with Afghanistan National Security Forces to teach, coach, and mentor Afghan Soldiers and police.

The Bulldog Brigade conducted more than 100 Air Assaults, more than 1000 combat missions and patrols, and captured more than 100 high value targets.

The brigade has lost 12 Soldiers since the start of their deployment, most recently on June 29, when Sgt. James L. Skalberg, Jr., died of wounds suffered when his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device.

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For Media wishing to attend the event please contact either SGT John D. Ortiz at Cell: 915-373-7125 or be at the Sergeant Major's gate no later than 7:00 pm for escort to Biggs Army Airfield and interviews with family members awaiting the planes arrival.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division will host a Pre-deployment Family Fair at Soto Gym from Jul 11-13. The purpose of the fair is to prepare Soldiers and their families for the brigade's August movement for training to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif.

Nearly 50 Soldier and family agencies will be available, including: legal services, American Red Cross, Exceptional Family Member Program, Tricare, Fort Bliss Finance and the Family Advocacy Program.

In addition to the numerous programs interactive stations include an Army K9 team, learning about a Stryker combat vehicle from its crew and meeting the UTEP and Diablos' mascots.

See specific times below:
11 July
9 a.m. to noon—501st Brigade Support Battalion
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.—2-3 Field Artillery
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.—make-ups

12 July
9 a.m. to noon—1-36 Infantry
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.—4-17 Infantry
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.—make-ups

13 July
9 a.m. to noon—3-41 Infantry
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.—6-1 Cavalry
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.—make-ups

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Media interested in covering this event must be at Global Reach Gate between 9am-Noon, Wed July 11. Contact Capt. Jennifer Dyrcz, Public Affairs Officer, 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, 744-4490 or (440)-228-7059.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS —A Fort Bliss Soldier supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died June 27 in Maidan Shahr, Wardak province, Afghanistan. Sgt. James L. Skalberg, Jr., died of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their vehicle with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 1st Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

"Team Bliss is saddened by the loss of Sgt. James Skalberg. He was a great 1st Armored Division Soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and leaves behind a loving wife and infant son. Our thoughts and prayers are with his Family, friends, fellow Soldiers, and all of our troops in Afghanistan," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss.

Skalberg, 26, of Cullman, Ala., was a Cannon Crewmember (MOS 13B) who entered the Army in January 2007. He was previously stationed at Smith Barracks, Germany. His military education includes the Rappel Master, Air Assault and Combat Lifesaver's Courses. Skalberg's awards and decorations include the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, three Overseas Service Ribbons, a Certificate of Achievement, Combat Action Badge, Driver and Mechanic Badge-Driver for Wheeled Vehicles, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Expert with Carbine.

He is survived by his wife and one child.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406.

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Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss officials have set aside Friday, July 6, 2012, as "Ammunition Amnesty Day" in El Paso County.

In an effort to better control and account for small arms ammunition and explosives that have been found, misplaced or stolen, as well as to prevent injury or death from handling these items, the Directorate of Logistics, Ammunition Branch will conduct an Ammunition Amnesty Day for Fort Bliss and the El Paso Community.

The objective is to encourage soldiers and civilians to turn in contraband items without harassment or penalty from the government. No criminal charges related to any hazardous materials reported and/or collected will be filed against residents or soldiers who participate in the program.

The collection will take place between 8a.m. and 3p.m. at the Texas State Guard Armory, at 9100 Gateway North at Hondo Pass. Directional signs will be posted in the vicinity of that location on the day of the event.

If you have any questions concerning the Fort Bliss Amnesty Program call the Ammunition Accountable Officer at 569-9528 or the Ammunition Surveillance Section (QASAS) at 569-9373 or 569-9384.

To report ammunition and explosives found on residential property within the city limits please contact the El Paso Police Department. For residents outside city limits, please contact the El Paso County Sheriff.

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Media planning on covering this event should go to the Texas State Guard Armory 9100 Gateway North the day of the event. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Team Bliss officials will conduct the annual Joint Armed Forces Motorcycle Safety Rally and Ride at 9a.m. on Thursday, June 28. The combined installation event includes motorcycle enthusiasts from Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base.

The intent of the rally is to promote motorcycle safety to all Active Duty Soldiers, National Guard, Reservists, Retirees, Family Members, DoD and Contract Civilians.

Pre-ride activities will be conducted at the Centennial Banquet & Conference Center parking lot, East Fort Bliss.

Participants are highly encouraged to complete PRE-REGISTRATION with their motorcycle mentors prior to the event. (Advance registration preferred.)

Rally events include:
• 630a.m. Late registration
• 8a.m. Opening remarks
• 845a.m. All riders line-up
• 9a.m. Start ride
• 1230p.m. All riders return to Centennial, RIDE COMPLETE
• 1p.m. Motorcycle rally festivities
• 330p.m. Closing remarks

Requirements are: Motorcycle driver license, proof of insurance, MSF card, proper safety equipment/clothing. The event includes give-a-ways, band and a competition. Dress: Military or Civilian Clothing. More information at 744-6865.

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Interested media must be at BIGGS Gate at 8am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8403 or 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Bulldog Brigade Memorial Association will be partnering with Maj. Gen. Dana Pittard, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding general will host a groundbreaking ceremony for its memorial to honor fallen Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1 AD, June 25 at 1:30 p.m.

The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, June 25 at 1:30 p.m. at 21200 Bayonet on East Fort Bliss.

The BBMA is a non-profit, 501 © 3 organization whose mission is to build a memorial to honor fallen 'Bulldog' Brigade Soldiers. This group of 14 volunteers has been working diligently since September 2011 to raise the $50,000 needed to build the Bulldog Brigade Memorial.

Thanks to donations from its generous contributors, the BBMA has raised over $30,000 so far. The Groundbreaking Ceremony is a celebration of this initial success.

The Memorial will be located in front of the 3/1 AD Building. The design features three granite-clad T-walls, paver stones and a bronze statue of a battle cross including a rifle, boots and helmet. Further plans include granite-clad benches, a bronze bulldog statue, and a 3/1 AD patch integrated into the design.

Once completed a dedication ceremony is planned for Sept. 21.

"Sadly, our Brigade has lost 11 Soldiers during its current deployment to Afghanistan," said Carla Whitesell-Dahl, BBMA president. "We are working to build a Memorial worthy of the respect and admiration we feel for these Soldiers and the Fallen Bulldogs who have preceded them."

Light refreshments will be served following the ceremony.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at the Fort Bliss South IBCT Gate (Spur 601 past Loop 375) at 1 p.m. to be escorted to the event and can coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 / 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Family members and Soldiers with the 1st Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment assigned to the 3 rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division will be teaming up with their community partner Texas Gas Service to put together amenities and house hold goods to decorate single Soldier rooms for redeploying Soldiers coming home from Afghanistan.

The event will be held at 4600 Pollard Street, El Paso, Texas 79930 on Saturday, June 23 at 10:00 a.m., and will pair Texas Gas Service workers and volunteers with Soldiers and family members.

As a member of the local business community and the El Paso Chapter of the Association of the United States Army, Texas Gas Service has been a partner of the cavalry squadron since the unit was formed late 2009.

The squadron, part of the "Bulldog" Brigade, was a member of the first brigade to deploy to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from the 1st Armored Division. The unit has been deployed since September 2011 and is scheduled to return July 2012.

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For Media wishing to attend the event please contact either Ms. Janel Schrank, the Squadron Family Readiness Support Advisor at 502-643-8363 or Mr. Pete Parraz, Texas Gas Media Relations at 915-680-7204.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Sergeant Major of the Army Hosts Town Hall FORT BLISS, Texas— Sergeant Major of the Army Raymond F. Chandler, III, will be conducting a Town Hall meeting for Fort Bliss Soldiers and local media on Thursday, June 21 at 2:15p.m.

The meeting will be conducted at the 1st Armored Division Chapel. SMA Chandler will hold a question and answer session for the meeting for approximately 45 minutes.

Details include: Thursday, June 21 at 2:15p.m. 1AD Chapel.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate at 1:45 p.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Team Bliss officials and Fort Bliss Soldiers will conduct an Army Birthday and Flag Day ceremony at 10am, Thursday, June 14 at 1st Armored Division Parade Field, East Fort Bliss.

The theme for this year's event is: "The Strength of our Nation is our Army, the Strength of our Army is our Soldiers, the Strength of our Soldiers is our Families, this is what makes us Army Strong!"

The Continental Army was established 237 years ago on June 14, 1775, to defend fledgling colonies and secure independence from oppression. Since that time, from Bunker Hill to Baghdad and from Cold Harbor to Kandahar, American Soldiers have been the safeguard of the Nation's freedom and a shield from oppression for friends and allies.

This 237th birthday commemorates Americas Army – Soldiers, Families and Civilians – who are achieving a level of excellence that is truly Army Strong both here and abroad. American Soldiers willingness to sacrifice to build a better future for others and to preserve our way of life is without a doubt, the Strength of our Nation.

During the observance, Soldiers will attach 183 battle streamers to the Army Flag, while a narrator describes the significance of each. The streamers denote campaigns fought by the Army throughout our nation's history.

El Paso and surrounding area veterans, veterans organizations, military retirees, family members, installation employees and the public are invited to attend this FREE and open to the public event.

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Editors: this is a very colorful and patriotic event.
Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 / 471-2772. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command will officially dedicate a set of general officer's quarters in memory of Chief Warrant Officer 3, Robert C. Hammett during a ceremony scheduled here June 13 at 8:30 a.m. Hammett, an air defense artillery warrant officer, was killed when a bomb exploded inside a civic center June 24, 2008 in the Sadr City section of Baghdad, Iraq. Hammett was serving on a Provincial Reconstruction Team and meeting with local Iraqi leaders in an effort to help improve community relations.

Brig. Gen. John G. Rossi, commanding general of 32d AAMDC, will host the ceremony. Among the honored guests in attendance will be several family members and friends of Hammett. Col. (Promotable) John H. Hort, Hammett's former brigade commander, will also make remarks.

Hammett was a former 32d AAMDC warrant officer. Hammett is survived by his wife, Leanna, and five daughters.

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Media interested in attending the ceremony must contact the 32d AAMDC Public Affairs Office at 915-568-3328 no later than 7 a.m., June 13 to coordinate for an escort to the ceremony.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The remains of Staff Sgt. Roberto Loeza will arrive at approximately 1240p.m. tomorrow at Biggs Army Airfield. The Fort Bliss Soldier died May 25 supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, while in Charkh, Longar province Afghanistan.

The El Paso area Patriot Riders will accompany Loeza from the Biggs departure & arrival facility to a local area funeral home.
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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage with Sgt John Ortiz at 373-7125. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — A Fort Bliss Soldier supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died May 25 in Charkh, Logar province, Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. Roberto Loeza died when enemy forces attacked his unit with indirect fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

"1st Armored Division and Team Bliss lost an outstanding Soldier this past weekend; we are keeping Staff Sgt. Loeza's Family, friends and fellow Soldiers in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. "Keep all of our Servicemembers in your prayers and remember FREEDOM IS DEFINITELY NOT FREE," he added.

Loeza, 28, of El Paso, Texas, was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army in June 2002. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga., Fort Bragg, NC, and Los Angeles Recruiting Battalion. His military education includes Airborne, Combat Lifesaver's Course, Warrior Leader Course, Army Recruiter, Advance Leader Course, Combatives Level II, Airload Planners, Unit Movement Officers Course, and the Air Assault Course. Eden's awards and decorations include the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal with two Awards, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Ribbons, six Certificates of Achievement, US Army Basic Recruiter Badge-Silver with three Gold Achievement Stars, US Army Basic Recruiter Badge-Gold with three Sapphire Achievement Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Driver and Mechanic Badge-Driver for Wheeled Vehicles, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Expert with Rifle.

He is survived by his wife and two children.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406.

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Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss officials in conjunction with the El Paso Independent School District will conduct an Emergency Joint Evacuation Exercise beginning at 9-11a.m., Wednesday, May 30, at Milam Elementary School, on East Fort Bliss.

The purpose of the drill is to help train EPISD and Fort Bliss Emergency Management Staffs, emergency service personnel school staff and students.

The joint exercise will include participation from: Fort Bliss Emergency Officer, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization & Security Plans & Operations, installation School Liaison, Directorate of Emergency Services, Safety Office, Public Health Emergency Officer, and EPISD Police Department Staff. Students and staff will be evacuated to a predetermined location and returned to the campus once the drill is complete.

Spectators and those passing near the area should NOT be alarmed, the exercise may appear to be real however, it is ONLY an exercise.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss officials and Soldiers will conduct a Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 28 at 9a.m., at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery.

The service will be conducted in honor of the service men and women of the United States who gave their lives in the defense of our country.

During the memorial service William Beaumont Army Medical Center, Commanding General, Brig. Gen. Dennis D. Doyle will deliver an address to honor the fallen men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

The memorial service will also include a 21 Gun Salute provided by a salute battery, firing the 75-millimeter howitzer. For nearly 237 years, America's Armed Forces have paid with their lives for the freedoms and dreams we all enjoy today. Veterans, veterans' organizations and the general public are invited to this FREE event.

The main entrance / gate to the cemetery, on Fred Wilson, will be CLOSED for the duration of this event; the walk-in gate will be OPEN to pedestrians.
Visitors to the Memorial Day Service are encouraged to use SHERIDAN GATE for access to the National Cemetery. Parking will be on JEB Stuart and Haan Road's, on Fort Bliss, directly to the side and behind the cemetery. Vehicles entering Fort Bliss must present a valid driver's license, and have available proof of insurance, safety sticker and registration.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate at 830am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 o. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

Representing 250 members from industry and academia, the new Fort Bliss EDGE Innovation Center delivers 'fast-track' solutions to equip soldiers at the speed of innovation.

WHAT: Media are invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony and open house for the Fort Bliss EDGE® Innovation Center that is housed in General Dynamics' Fort Bliss Regional Support and Training Center. There will be technology demonstrations by General Dynamics C4 Systems and EDGE Innovation Network members.

WHEN: Thursday, May 24, 2012. Ribbon cutting takes place at 11:00 a.m. followed by technical demonstrations until 1:00 p.m. CDT

WHERE: Fort Bliss EDGE Innovation Center
Building 20196 Minue Drive
East Fort Bliss, Texas

RSVP: Media are requested to contact Dieter JESTER at Ft Bliss PAO, 744-8403 and dieter.jester@us.army.mil by Noon May 23. Media meet at GLOBAL REACH GATE on SPUR 601 at 1030AM May 24 for escort to the facility.

Integrated into General Dynamic's Regional Support and Training Center that assists soldiers and military personnel with technologies and products used at the current NIE 12.1, the 12th and newest EDGE Innovation Center, the Fort Bliss EDGE opens its doors. The Fort Bliss EDGE Innovation Center is a unique, open environment that encourages military personnel to visit and engage with the EDGE team and more than 250 members worldwide, experimenting first-hand with advanced technologies and products ranging from soldier-worn, networked communications to new technologies and products integrated into military vehicles.

Sponsored by General Dynamics C4 Systems, EDGE Innovation Centers provide a collaborative, open-environment enabling industry and academia, with government input, to work together to speed the delivery cycle of new technologies and capabilities to soldiers, Marines and men and women of the Armed Forces and first responders.

Visuals include:
• Opening comments will be made by Chris Marzilli, president of General Dynamics C4 Systems followed by:
o Congressman Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas)
o Pete Palmer, director of the EDGE Innovation Network
o Retired Brig. Gen. Nolen Bivens, vice president, Army Agile Acquisition and Network integration Evaluation for General Dynamics C4 Systems
• Following the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, the new Fort Bliss EDGE Innovation center will host an open house featuring advanced technologies and products that keep soldiers connected to the tactical network, provide greater situational awareness of their surroundings and other capabilities including:
• A miniature software-defined module with the power of a full-sized Linux computer, connects to the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Handheld Manpack Small Form Fit (HMS) AN/PRC-154 Rifleman radio adding a variety of network-based 'apps' like compression of large video files and sniper detection.
o More than 700 JTRS HMS radios are being used during NIE 12.2, currently taking place at Fort Bliss and at White Sands Missile Range, N.M.
• NSM Surveillance demonstrates a portable, wireless, video surveillance system that delivers spectacular thermal and visual images day and night, regardless of the weather.
• Intelligence Low Overhead Driver (ILOD) – Enabling real-time, real mission training for soldiers in the field or classroom, ILOD enables commanders to load Army Battle Command Systems information onto a laptop computer to train soldiers for upcoming missions or maneuvers. ILOD system is part of an existing training system and can be scaled from the battalion level down to specialized intelligence, fires or other team operations.
• Tactical Ground Reporting System (TIGR), proven in battle, this smartphone-like app provides soldiers and commanders with the unprecedented ability to share knowledge about places, events and people for increased combat effectiveness.
• Nodal Network Simulator provides a distributed, realistic simulation system designed to train soldiers how to operate, maintain and manage tactical networks.

Background:
Sponsored by General Dynamics C4 Systems, the EDGE Innovation Network is a collaborative open environment enabling industry and academia, with government input, to work together to enhance the delivery cycle of new technologies and innovative capabilities to U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force personnel. The Fort Bliss EDGE Innovation Center increases the scope and capabilities of this collaborative concept to deliver innovation quickly and cost effectively for military and government operations worldwide. More information about the global EDGE Innovation Network is available at http://www.edge-innovation.com.

A business unit of General Dynamics, General Dynamics C4 Systems specializes in integrating command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance technologies, products and systems. The company is currently providing more than 600 next-generation JTRS HMS AN/PRC-154 Rifleman radios and 100 two-channel AN/PRC-155 Manpack that are forming the baseline for the Army's on-the-move tactical network during the Army's Network Integration Exercise 12.2.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, conduct a change of command ceremony at 10a.m., TOMORROW, (May 22) at the 1st Armored Division parade field, at 11685 Sergeant Major Blvd.

The new incoming commander is Col. Terry P. Cook; the outgoing commander is D. Scott McKean.

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Press Access: All media must be at the Global Reach Gate at 930a.m. where they will be escorted to the 1 AD Hq parade field.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The commander of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, and Team Bliss Officials will host a Field of Honor Ceremony adding 11 names of fallen Soldiers. The ceremony is scheduled at 230p.m., Thursday, May 24, at the memorial, Cassidy at Sheridan Roads.

The memorial was dedicated May 2011 with 53 names of Fort Bliss Soldiers, the addition of 11 names brings the total to 64.

The memorial commemorates Fort Bliss Soldiers who lost their lives after Sept. 11, 2001, during operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

Fort Bliss housing partner, Balfour Beatty Communities Foundation designed the Field of Honor Memorial; the curve of the granite wall is symbolic of strength. The flowing water represents life itself, constantly in motion and ever-changing.

The BBC Foundation is a nonprofit organization that honors active, disabled and fallen military personnel through building memorials, helping secure specially adapted homes and financial support to military children.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Media are invited to visit with Soldiers and leaders participating in the Army's Network Integration Evaluation, NIE 12.2, at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., on Tuesday, May 15, from 9:30 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. The purpose of NIE 12.2 is to test and evaluate networked and non-networked capabilities and obtain honest feedback from Soldiers on the implications of these capabilities pertaining to Army doctrine, organization, training, material, leader development, personnel and facilities.

With an official kick-off date of May 1, the exercise, involving nearly 3,800 Soldiers and 1,000 vehicles from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division (2/1 AD), based at Fort Bliss, will continue through June 7. The NIE, as a key part of the Army's new agile acquisition process, is a series of semi-annual, Soldier-driven evaluations designed to further integrate, mature and rapidly progress the Army's tactical network. NIE 12.2 is the third and most significant exercise in this series and will result in validation of the Army's tactical network that will be fielded to deploying Brigade Combat Teams starting this fall.

NIE 12.2 will involve dynamic, on-the-move scenarios with combat and stability operations, incorporate several non-networked systems, including vehicles and operational energy capabilities and include a higher headquarters element of the 101st Airborne Division operating out of Fort Campbell, Ky., in order to test the network across distances and echelons.

NIE 12.2, managed by the "TRIAD" - the Brigade Modernization Command (BMC), the Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) and the System of Systems Integration (SoSI) Directorate - is the Army's largest and most robust network test/evaluation to date, demonstrating the service's holistic focus to integrate network components simultaneously in one operational venue. The NIE brings together the operational test, acquisition and requirements communities to synchronize and streamline the evaluation and feedback approach, allowing for more usable test data and direct feedback from 2/1 AD Soldiers.

Media will have the opportunity to tour the NIE sites where Soldiers are performing combat and stability operations similar to those being conducted in Afghanistan today, using advanced Army networked systems to aide them in battlefield communication and mission command. Additionally, media will get a first-hand look at several of the systems undergoing testing and evaluation, meet senior Army leaders responsible for executing the NIE and talk with Soldiers who are participating in the evaluation.

Media who desire to participate in this event should contact Annie Gammell, BMC Public Affairs, at (915) 569-7234 or (915) 525-4864 no later than 3 p.m. on May 13. Media will meet at the El Paso Wyndham Hotel, 2027 Airway Blvd., for a departure by bus not later than 8 a.m. The bus is expected to return to El Paso between 4 and 4:30 p.m.
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The mission of the Brigade Modernization Command, under the Army Capabilities Integration Center, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, is to conduct physical integration and evaluation of the network, capability packages and other core capabilities in order to provide doctrine, organization, training, materiel, leadership and education, personnel and facilities recommendations to the Army as part of its brigade modernization program.

EL PASO, TEXAS — Tomorrow, Thurs. May 3, about 68 Soldiers assigned to 15th Sustainment Brigade, 1st Armored Division are returning from Afghanistan after a 12 month deployment.

Thurs., May 3:

1.) Meet at Fort Bliss BIGGS GATE at 8:00 a.m. (Escort: Sgt. Thurman, Cell: 915-253-1463)

2.) We will convoy to the military passenger terminal, where families will welcome their Soldiers home. The Soldiers are scheduled to land at Biggs Airfield about 9:30 a.m.

BACKGROUND: The 142nd Combat Service Sustainment Battalion has been deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan for 12 months. The coordinated logistics (supply, maintenance, transportation) support to military units throughout Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/142nd-CSSB-MAVERICKS/114399775240406

Call Sgt. Thurman to confirm participation.

EL PASO, TEXAS — "Make Your Mark on Texas" Photo Booth to Visit Fort Bliss

WHAT: Secretary of State Hope Andrade will visit Fort Bliss on Thursday, May 3, to visit with soldiers and meet with El Paso County election officials to brief them on the "Make Your Mark on Texas" voter education program. The program answers voting questions and provides resources so all eligible voters in Texas can prepare for 2012 elections.

During the event, attendees can also use the program's traveling photo booth to post their picture on a digital Texas flag to demonstrate their interest in learning more about the voting process and to show friends and family how to "Make Your Mark on Texas." Secretary Andrade will highlight statewide voter education efforts designed to bust myths about voting. She'll discuss social media, paid media and voter engagement efforts as well the state's official voter resource VoteTexas.gov.

WHEN: Thursday, May 3, 2012; 9:45 to 10:45 a.m.
Secretary Andrade will speak at 10 a.m.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY FOLLOWING REMARKS

WHERE: Centennial Hall Biggs Army Airfield, East Bliss.
Media wishing to attend should be at Biggs Gate at 0930 a.m.
Dieter Jester will be the escort

**Media will be escorted from the Fort Bliss front entrance gate to the event location on post.

EL PASO, TEXAS — A Fort Bliss Soldier supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died April 26 in Bethesda, Md. Spc. Jason K. Edens died of wounds sustained April 15, in Laghman province, Afghanistan, when the enemy attacked his unit with small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

Edens, 22, of Franklin, Tenn., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Nashville, Tenn., January 2009. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga. Eden's awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge-Expert with Rifle.

He is survived by his wife.

"Team Bliss and the 1st Armored Division deeply mourns the loss of an outstanding Soldier; we are keeping Spc. Jason Eden's wife, family, friends, and fellow Soldiers in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He was a fighter and gave his life on behalf of our nation," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406.

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Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

EL PASO, TEXAS — The 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command will host its third annual Blackjack Warrior Week Competition -- beginning April 30 -- pitting the best and brightest of its nearly 10,000 Soldiers head-to-head to crown this year's true "Blackjack Warriors."

This 4-day competition will determine the command's winners in the following categories:
. Equal Opportunity Advisor of the Year
. Career Counselor of the Year
. Culinary Arts Junior and Senior Chef of the Year
. Volunteer of the Year
. Leadership Competition for Officer, NCO and Soldier of the Year

Contenders will compete in various events including formal board proceedings, which will test their knowledge and skills under pressure. Others events will test the competitors' physical and mental toughness, weapon's familiarity, and the culinary capabilities of the Army cooks.

Each of the command's four brigades, and its headquarters element, will send highly skilled representatives to compete in each category. In addition to Soldiers from Fort Bliss, personnel from Fort Bragg, N.C., Fort Sill, Okla., and Fort Hood, Texas will compete here.

At the conclusion of the events, the winners of the Blackjack Warrior Week will be announced during a Recognition Ceremony scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Fort Bliss Museum.

For more information about the event, please call (915) 568-3328 or (315) 771-1811.

SSG Brandon Little
32d AAMDC Public Affairs Office
Fort Bliss, TX 79916
Commercial: 915-568-3328
DSN: 978-3328
Web site: https://www.bliss.army.mil/32nd/index.html

EL PASO, TEXAS — The 1st Armored Division will conduct the "Iron Focus" tactical military training exercise from April 24-May 18, 2012.

The primary purpose of Iron Focus is for company-sized units in 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division to train and demonstrate proficiency in Village Stability Operations, Air Assaults, and React to Contact drills. 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division will deploy to Afghanistan this fall.

This is the largest collective training exercise Fort Bliss has conducted in more than 10 years. More than 7,500 Soldiers will participate.

The Soldiers will train in realistic simulations of locations they may experience during the deployment, to include Afghan role-players acting as village residents and officials. These scenarios will enable 1st Brigade's leadership to evaluate their unit's readiness.

Nearly every brigade at Fort Bliss will provide augmentees during this month-long exercise. Additionally, U.S. Air Force and Army Special Forces units will be joining Team Bliss for this event.

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SPECIAL MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:

Media is invited to embed during Iron Focus.

Embedding is on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only.

Media must sign up for embeds no later than 72 hours prior to desired date.

Journalists must sign Fort Bliss Hold Harmless Agreement prior to embed.

Embedding missions typically will last no less than four hours. Media are encouraged to spend a 24-hour day with Soldiers.

Fort Bliss will provide all food, military body armor, and emergency medical care (life, limb, eyesight) for embedded media.

RSVP to Maj. Myles Caggins myles.caggins@us.army.mil ; Capt. Martin Meiners martin.meiners@us.army.mil ; Staff Sgt. Kevin Allen kevin.r.allen34.mil@mail.mil

1st Brigade's Facebook page is located at: http://www.facebook.com/ReadyFirst

EL PASO, TEXAS — The public is invited to attend the Fort Bliss Restoration Advisory Board's quarterly meeting at the Chaparral (NM) Community Center, 6:30 p.m., April 25. The Chaparral Community Center, known as the Betty McKnight Center, is located at 190 County Line Drive, Chaparral, N.M. The meeting is open to the public with free admission.

The agenda includes an update to the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study of Maneuver Areas 1 and 2, and a presentation of the Draft Final Project Report "Wide Area Assessment" in Castner Range.

The Restoration Advisory Board's mission is to promote the restoration of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems at Fort Bliss through collaborative efforts with the Army, cooperating and regulatory agencies, and the communities in West Texas and Southern New Mexico.

Restoration Advisory Boards are the cornerstone of the Department of Defense's enhanced approach to involving stakeholders in the cleanup process of sites that have been formerly used for military activities. RABs allow members of the community and representatives of the installation, the Environmental Protection Agency, state regulatory agencies, and local governments to work together toward a common goal.

For more information, call (575) 532-1526, ext. 703.

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Editor's Note: Media interested in covering this event should contact Donita Kelley, Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office, (915) 568-2497/4601. Please call and confirm your participation.

EL PASO, TEXAS — Fort Bliss' Directorate of Environment will host its annual Earth Day Open House for elementary and middle school children. To date, about 500 students have signed up to participate. Activities are free and will take place from 8:30 to Noon, Friday (April 20th) at the Youth Services Plex, located on post (building 195) on Chaffee Road.

Exhibitors will provide displays, hands-on-activities and environmental lessons. Participants include: Recycling, Archaeology, Wildlife Biology, Historic Architecture, Storm Water, Hazmat, Air Quality, Pollution Prevention, Solar Energy, Alternative Energy, Fire Safety and GIS.

Recycling Olympics will be set up outdoors and will include such games as water bottle bowling, can knock-off, ring toss, and sweeping recyclables. Other activities include: face painting, eco-friendly craft tables, and magic show. VIP guest include a special appearance by the Recycle Hero.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at CASSIDY Gate 10 a.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 568-2497 or 568-4505. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

EL PASO, TEXAS — A deployment ceremony for the headquarters of 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, April 20 at the Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museums. The "Imperial Brigade," commanded by Col. Reginald Davis, will deploy to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The headquarters will replace 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade and will command air defense units throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. These Soldiers are scheduled to conduct a 9-month deployment and have been training for more than a year in preparation for this deployment. This headquarters' last deployment was also to Southwest Asia in 2008. The 11th ADA Bde. consists of four battalions and two Terminal High Altitude Area Defense batteries, all of which are stationed at Fort Bliss. They are 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment; 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment; 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment; 5th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment; A Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (THAAD); and A Battery, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (THAAD). The 5th Bn., 52nd ADA Regt. is deployed to Southwest Asia and is the only currently deployed unit from 11th ADA Bde.; more than two dozen personnel from E Battery, 5th Bn., 52nd ADA Regt. are deployed to Afghanistan providing Sentinel Radar support. -30- Media interested in attending the ceremony must contact the 32d AAMDC Public Affairs Office at 915-568-3328 no later than 8:30 a.m., April 20 to coordinate for an escort to the ceremony.

EL PASO, TEXAS — Fort Bliss and Army Community Services officials, in Celebration of National Volunteer week will host the Fort Bliss Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner. The event will be at 6p.m., Friday, April 20, at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, East Fort Bliss.

The awards ceremony will recognize:
• The Team Bliss Volunteer of Excellence (announced at the ceremony)
• Fort Bliss Volunteer Brigade/Organization
• Fort Bliss Outstanding Volunteer Soldier
• Fort Bliss Outstanding Volunteer Youth
• Fort Bliss Outstanding Volunteer Ambassador
• Fort Bliss Outstanding Volunteer Partners in Education (PIE) Units
• and Fort Bliss Outstanding Volunteer Family

The theme for this event is "Volunteers...the Force behind the Force." The theme is a reflection of the devotion and commitment of the volunteer who stand strong behind our Soldiers and families, improving the quality of life and well-being for all in the community.

Fort Bliss understands volunteers are our strength and life force and this is a time we show them how much they are appreciated.

Keynote speaker is Mr. Bob Jacquemotte, El Paso Southwest Airlines Station Leader.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 o or 471-2772 c. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

EL PASO, TEXAS — The 15th Sustainment Brigade, in cooperation with Fort Bliss will host a Holocaust Days of Remembrance observance at the Centennial Conference and Banquet Center, East Fort Bliss, Texas from 11:15 am to 12:15 p.m., April 18.

The observance will include food sampling, a poetry reading; an essay reading from a student from the Tom Lea Elementary School; a short video from the National Holocaust Museum and a candle lighting ceremony in honor of those affected by the Holocaust. The El Paso Holocaust Museum also donated displays for the event. Mr. Henry Kellen – a holocaust survivor and El Paso resident will serve as guest speaker.

To learn more about the El Paso Holocaust Museum visit:
www.elpasoholocaustmuseum.org

If you would like to receive a copy of Mr. Henry Kellen's biography or the winning essay from Tom Lea Elementary School, you may request it through the 15th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office.

If you would like to cover the event please contact the 15th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office NCOIC: Staff Sgt Casey McGeorge at 915-328-4193 (casey.j.mcgeorge@us.army.mil) or Public Affairs Sergeant Erik Thurman, at (915) 253-1463 (erik.thurman1@us.army.mil) before 9 a.m., April 18, 2012.

Press Access: All media must be at the Sergeants Major Blvd Gate, East Fort Bliss, NLT 10:20 am for a media vehicle convoy to The Centennial Club.

Established in 1848, Fort Bliss is the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. Fort Bliss is undergoing the largest expansion of any military installation since World War II. Spread across 1.2 million acres in West Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss is home of most of the 1st Armored Division and 26,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Since 2001, over 200,000 servicemembers have deployed through Fort Bliss to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. http://www.bliss.army.mil

Fort Bliss Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/supporttheaction

EL PASO, TEXAS — Due to the inclement weather, the fourth annual "Touch a Tank, Thank a Soldier" event that was scheduled to take place at the Regional Children's Hospital at Providence on Saturday, April 14th has been postponed until the fall. Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division will still visit with young patients at the Children's Hospital at Providence, located at 2001 N. Oregon St. on Saturday, April 14th at 10am for a meet and greet and will provide the children with giveaways, dog-tag station, story telling and face painting. This event is not open to the public.

The visit from the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division to the children will bring a boost to the children's morale and share their experiences. Their visit also teaches the young patients the importance of the service our military provides for us. Special thanks to El Paso County Sheriff's Office and the Association of the United States Army-Bradley Chapter for working with us on "Touch a Tank, Thank a Soldier."

"Despite the weather, our young patients will still have the opportunity to spend quality time with soldiers from the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division. Events such as this give them a shot of confidence and an opportunity to smile during this time of their life," said Nancy Arambasick, Executive Director for the Regional Children's Hospital at Providence.

2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division Visit to Regional Children's Hospital at Providence Event Info:
Date: Saturday, April 14, 2012
Time: 10a.m. to 11:30a.m.
Location: Regional Children's Hospital at Providence 2001 N. Oregon, Oceanville 3rd Floor Hilton Tower.
Note: Photo Opportunity Available. This event will not be open to the public.

"It is an honor to collaborate with the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division to help our patients heal. Events such as these brighten up their days and provide them with a unique experience that makes them feel special. We look forward to the fall when we'll be able to bring military vehicles on site as previously planned," said John Harris, Chief Operating Officer of Providence Memorial Hospital and President of Sierra Providence Health Network.

About Regional Children's Hospital at Providence:
Regional Children's Hospital at Providence is part of the Sierra Providence Health Network that includes the hospitals of Sierra Providence East Medical Center, Sierra Medical Center, and Providence Memorial Hospital. The Network also offers a wide range of outpatient services including Sierra Providence TotalCare, Sierra Providence Urgent Care Centers, Sierra Providence Trawood Center and ER, Sierra Teen and Women's Center, Wound Care Centers and Sierra Providence Sleep Disorders Center.

Tenet Healthcare Corporation is a health care services company whose subsidiaries and affiliates own and operate acute care hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers and diagnostic imaging centers. Tenet's hospitals and related health care facilities are committed to providing high quality care to patients in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit www.tenethealth.com

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss officials have released the name of a Soldier who died Saturday in Corsicana, Texas, from injuries sustained in a water accident.

Spc. Mason T. Moore III, 27, whose home of record is listed as Frost, Texas, entered active-duty service on Aug. 15, 2006, as a light wheeled vehicle mechanic. He arrived at Fort Hood, June 1, 2008, and assigned to 407th, 4th Infantry Division Heavy Brigade Combat Team. His last assignment was with Charlie Company, 86th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, 11th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade, Fort Bliss, since Oct. 13, 2009.

Mason's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal 3 Bronze Oak Leaves, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War On Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon Numeral 2, NATO Service Medal, Driver and Mechanic Badge, Driver Wheeled Vehicle Badge and Driver Track Vehicle Badge.

He is survived by his wife and son.

"Charlie Company, 86th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, suffered a tremendous loss," said Capt. Lorenzo J. Aponte, Charlie Company commander. "Sgt. Moore was remarkable in so many ways. He lived his life to the fullest and touched so many people during his time with us. We all have memories that defined Sgt Moore; memories that we will always hold dear. We continue to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers."

A unit Memorial Service will be held on Fort Bliss at a later date.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss and 1st Armored Division Association officials will conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening the Old Ironsides Gift Shop.

1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard along with gift shop officials will cut the ribbon at 130p.m., Monday, April 16.

The gift shop is located at the 1st Armored Division & Fort Bliss Museums at 1735 Marshall Road. Gift shop hours are 9a.m. to 4p.m. Monday thru Friday.

The Old Ironsides Gift Shop works actively to sell only U.S. made products and support local vendors from El Paso who offer handcrafted items. Additionally, the shop will take orders for special items such as unit pins, shirts, caps and many other items designed for the various units.

Profits from the store go to support the museum exhibits, because there is no federal funding for military museums.

The gift shop will also participate in a Spring Bazaar April 14 & 15 at the Centennial Center.

The 1st Armored Division Association was formed in 1948 and this is the first time since May 2011 that the division and the division association have been co-located.

The current association president is Joe Sachen, age 93 and still actively working. He is a WWII veteran of the division.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — MEDIA RELEASE #: 120403-001
April, 3, 2012

Two Fort Bliss Soldiers, civilian found in Gila National Forest

FORT BLISS, Texas—Two Soldiers and one civilian were relocated after setting out on a kayaking trip on Saturday morning.

Sgt. Nicholas A. Mummert linked up with New Mexico State Police on Monday night, after receiving assistance from a local civilian.

Spc. Alton F. Weber and Angelica Gonzalez were located this afternoon near Turkey Creek, at an exit point of the Gila River.

They were found through the combined efforts of New Mexico State Police, U.S. Army medical evacuation helicopters, and the U.S. Air Force.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — —A Fort Bliss Soldier supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died March 31, in Logar Province, Afghanistan. Spc. James E. Dutton was assigned to the 125th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

"Team Bliss and the 1st Armored Division is saddened by the loss of Spc. James E. Dutton. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fellow Soldiers during this difficult time," stated 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commander Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406.

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Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — the Military Police were notified by (New Mexico Search and Rescue) that three Fort Bliss Soldiers were overdue from a kayak trip on the Mogollon Creek in NM, at 9:10 a.m., April 2.

At 10:48 a.m. contact was made with New Mexico Search and Rescue that a search would be initiated.

Two Soldiers were from the 4th Brigade, 1st Armored Division. Contact was made with the unit and it was confirmed at 10:42 a.m., April 2 that Soldiers were not at the unit. Listed as missing are:

Weber, Alton
SPC, M/W/N/25, XXX-XX-7288
1-77th Ar, 4/1 AD
Ft Bliss, TX 79908

Mummert, Nicholas
SGT, M/W/N/26, XXX-XX-4687
1-77th Ar, 4/1 AD
Ft Bliss, TX 79908

Two other Soldiers were reported as being with the party (not confirmed) and a civilian, Angelica Gonzalez.

At 1:34 p.m., April 2, the MP station contacted New Mexico State Police who informed the MP station that a white Suburban was found at Grapevine camp site.

The last known contact from the group was at approximately 10:30 Saturday morning. Presently Fort Bliss authorities are coordinating with local law enforcement from Texas and New Mexico to locate the group.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of this group please contact the Fort Bliss Military Police desk at (915) 568-1236.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest will place their famous cookies with its timeless flavors into the hands of Soldiers at the deployment facility on East Fort Bliss, March 29, 2:15 p.m.

Garrison Commander Col. Joseph A. Simonelli, Jr., Command Sgt. Maj. Phillip D. Pandy, Garrison command sergeant major, and several Soldiers will accept the cookies from the Girl Scouts.

Customers purchasing cookies for the GSDSW's "Gifts of Caring" Service Project Aircraft carrying future deploying units will also carry the cookies to Southwest Asia. Deployed Soldiers will be able to enjoy a taste of home.

See attached flyer for more information or contact the Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest at www.gsdsw.org or call (915) 566-9433.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at CHAFFEE Gate at 2:00 p.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 568-2497. Call and confirm your participation / attendance. (Chaffee Gate is located off Spur 601.)

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Soldiers from 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, and children from the Regional Children's Hospital at Providence are participating in the fourth annual "Touch a tank, thank a Soldier," on Saturday, April 14, from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for young patients who are normally hospital or home bound to have an exciting, fun, learning experience with some of the latest equipment in the Army inventory.

Planned events include a dog tag station, obstacle course, football toss and face painting. Some of the pieces of equipment available for participants to view and climb into include a Palladin, MRAP All-Terrain Vehicles, a Stryker, Abrams tank and Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Patients, approximately 150 expected, are the primary audience between 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., after which the event will be open to the public.

The 2nd Brigade Commander, Col. Dan Pinnell, and members of the Hospital Advisory Board will be available for questions at 10 a.m. in the front parking lot of the Regional Children's Hospital at Providence, 2001 North Oregon Street. The media are also welcome to tour the event and talk with Soldiers and families participating. Media who desire to participate in this event should contact the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division, Public Affairs officer, Maj. Charlene LaMountain at Charlene.a.lamountain.mil@mail.mil or (915) 744-7231 no later than 3 p.m. on April 11.

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The mission of 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division is to conduct physical integration and evaluation of network, capability packages and other adaptive and core capabilities; train to standard on core and operational environment specific tactical mission tasks; test new concepts and equipment under realistic conditions; and provide detailed, candid, doctrinal, organizational, training, materiel, leadership and educational, personnel and facility feedback to Army acquisition decision makers.

2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/2BDE1AD
2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division webpage:
https://www.bliss.army.mil/2HBCT1AR/index.html

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Commanding General, and Dr. Ernst E. Roberts II, El Paso Community College Interim President, will make a major joint announcement at a press conference, 1200noon, Monday, March 26, at the division headquarters building.

Fort Bliss officials along with EPCC officials have been working for the past year to establish an EPCC campus at the post. After a competitive process to identify an organization to satisfy the Army's needed for higher educational support on the installation, EPCC competed and was successfully selected by the Army Corps of Engineers.

With an increase in Soldier and Family member population EPCC estimates a need for another campus, this time, on Ft Bliss.

The new EPCC campus will be built on a 250-acre parcel. The new school will have additional facilities to support a number of partner institutions, and include various military-support agencies and amenities including recreational fields that serve the institutions and the post community.

Historically, since it was established EPCC has added facilities based on the needs of students and constructed new campuses. This new facility will provide Soldiers and Family members an opportunity to attend college and facilitate higher educational opportunities on the post.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas— The Fort Bliss community will conduct a memorial ceremony for Spc. Edward Acosta at 10:00am, (TOMORROW) Wednesday, Mar. 21, at Center Chapel.

Spc. Edward J. Acosta, 21, of Hesperia, Calif., died March 5, in La Jolla, Calif., of injuries sustained Dec. 3, 2011, when his vehicle was struck by an improvised-explosive device in Wardak province, Afghanistan.

Acosta was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

Acosta's awards include the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous), the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal and the Combat Medic Badge.

Specialist Acosta is survived by his wife, Lindsay Acosta and his infant daughter, Emmalyn Acosta.

"Team Bliss and the 1st Armored Division mourns the loss of an outstanding Soldier; we are keeping Specialist Edward Acosta's family, friends, and fellow Soldiers in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He leaves behind a wife and a baby daughter. He was a fighter and gave his life on behalf of our nation." ~Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard, Commanding General, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss

DOD Announcement:
http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=15103
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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate at 9:30am for escort to the chapel. Call 915-744-8403/8492 or cell 915-471-2772 to confirm your participation / attendance. Media will be on the 2nd floor of Soldier Hall. Following the ceremony interviews will be available.

CLARIFICATION: It has not been confirmed at this time how or where the fire started.

An early morning fire has totally destroyed a residence on Fort Bliss. The fire was reported shortly before 5 a.m. at 3254 Townsley in lower Logan Heights housing area. Fort Bliss fire officials indicate the fire began in the carport area and spread to the house very quickly. No injuries to occupants or firefighters are reported. An investigation is underway and includes Military Police, CID and fire investigators. Four Fort Bliss Fire Department units responded and were assisted by three El Paso Fire Department units.

Alexandria, Va. – About 25 wounded, ill and injured Soldiers and Army veterans from across the United States will train and compete for places on the Army Warrior Games shooting team, Tuesday, Mar. 13 – Saturday, Mar. 17, El Paso, Texas.

They are all working toward being one of 50 athletes representing the Army in the 2012 Warrior Games, April 30 - May 5, Colorado Springs, Colorado. At Warrior Games athletes from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Special Operations will compete for the gold in archery, cycling, wheelchair basketball, shooting, swimming, track and field, and sitting volleyball.

Army team members will be announced in late March. Warrior Games are hosted by the U.S. Olympic Committee and supported by the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, USO, Fisher House Foundation and the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

Dates: Tuesday – Saturday, March 13-17; Location: University of Texas at El Paso

Soldiers and coaches will be available to interview. Please see video at this link for a preview of these games and the abilities of these wounded, ill and injured Soldier athletes: http://www.wtc.army.mil/video/wtcpsa.html

Friday, March 16
Practice Matches: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saturday, March 17
Competition Matches: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Top Shot Competitors Award Ceremony: Immediately following competition Point of contact: SSG Emily Anderson, emily.anderson@us.army.mil, 205-276-8393

Please RSVP if you plan to attend.

WTC is a major subordinate command under the U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM). WTC's mission is to develop, coordinate and integrate the Army's Warrior Care and Transition Program (WCTP) for wounded, ill and injured soldiers, veterans and their families. For more information on WTC, visit the new WTC website, www.WTC.army.mil, follow on Twitter at http://twitter.com/armyWTC or join Facebook at http://facebook.com/armyAW2.

ALL: Today, Fri. Mar. 2, 44 Soldiers assigned to 741st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Detachment are deploying to Afghanistan. They will conduct EOD missions in southern Afghanistan (Defusing and destroying bombs; and advising Afghan National Army Soldiers). The deployment is expected to last nine months. MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS--Fri., Feb 2: 1.) Meet at Fort Bliss BIGGS GATE at 4:30pm (Escort: MAJ Caggins/MSG McCargo) Cell: 254-371-5704 2.) We will convoy to the 741st Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Detachment headquarters where families will farewell their Soldiers. Hugs, kisses, & kids from 4:30pm-7:30pm NOTE: The Soldiers fly from Biggs Airfield later in the evening.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Media are invited to a ceremony rededicating Hinman Hall, located at 2 Sheridan Road, on Wednesday, February 29, at 11:30 a.m. The building, which was originally dedicated in November 1954 in honor of Brigadier General Dale Durkee Hinman, served as the Army's Air Defense Artillery School for decades until the school was moved to Fort Sill in 2009. Hinman Hall also served as the post headquarters until August 2011, when offices of the post commander, also the commander of the 1st Armored Division, were moved to a new building on East Bliss.

The building is now occupied by the Network Integration Triad, which consists of the Brigade Modernization Command and elements of the Army Test and Evaluation Command and the System of Systems Integration Directorate Program Manager Current. BMC Commander Brig. Gen. Randal Dragon will host the ceremony, which is open to the public.

Media representatives who desire to cover this event should contact BMC Public Affairs at (915) 569-7234 no later than 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 27. They will need to be at the Cassidy Gate off of U.S. 54 not later than 11 a.m. on the day of the event (Wednesday, February 29), where they will be met by an escort and taken to the event site.

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The mission of the Brigade Modernization Command, under the Army Capabilities Integration Center, Training and Doctrine Command, is to conduct physical integration and evaluation of the network, capability packages and other core capabilities in order to provide doctrine, organization, training, materiel, leadership and education, personnel and facilities recommendations to the Army as part of its brigade modernization program.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The Department of the Army announces the publication in the Federal Register of a Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the proposed implementation of the installation's energy, water, and solid waste sustainability programs at Fort Bliss. These initiatives will work to enhance the energy and water security of Fort Bliss which is operationally necessary, financially prudent and essential to the installation's mission. Elements of the implementation of the initiatives would occur in both Texas and New Mexico.

These initiatives seek, to the maximum extent possible, to: (1) produce as much renewable energy on the installation as it uses annually; (2) limit the consumption of freshwater resources and maximize water re-use so as not to deplete the groundwater and surface water resources of the region in quantity or quality; and (3) reduce, reuse, and recover waste streams, converting them to resource value with a goal of zero solid waste landfill disposal. By implementing this initiative at Fort Bliss, the installation seeks to ensure that it has access to energy from renewable sources and ample water supplies now and into the future.

The EIS will assess the environmental impacts associated with the implementation of a number of policies, procedures, and projects to attain the installation's goals for increased energy, water, and waste sustainability. A range of reasonable alternatives will be analyzed in the EIS. Alternatives evaluated in the EIS include different project sitings and technologies as well as efforts to conserve and recycle existing water, energy and materials used by the Army. Projects that will be evaluated in include: (1) a new purple water pipeline for more efficient recycled water distribution; (2) renewable energy development such as wind, dry-cooled solar concentrating thermal technology, geothermal systems; and (3) establishment of a Waste-to-Energy plant with adjacent landfill to convert Fort Bliss and El Paso municipal and commercial waste into energy. The EIS will also evaluate the establishment of up to 20 MW of natural gas turbines to supply back-up power as a complementary source of energy to intermittent renewable sources. The EIS will also include an evaluation of the "No Action" Alternative to not proceed with any of these projects.

Interested Tribes, federal, state, and local agencies, organizations, and the public are invited to be involved in the scoping process for the preparation of this EIS by participating in scoping meetings and/or submitting written comments. The scoping process will help identify possible alternatives, potential environmental impacts, and key issues of concern to be analyzed in the EIS. Scoping meetings will be held in El Paso, Texas and also in Las Cruces and Alamogordo, New Mexico. Reasonable alternatives that are raised during the scoping process, and capable of meeting the project purpose and need and criteria, will be considered and included for evaluation in the EIS. Written comments identifying potential impacts to be analyzed in the EIS are welcomed and will be accepted within 30 days of publication of the NOI in the Federal Register.

UPDATE: Public Scoping Meets are scheduled for:

Tuesday, Feb. 28
Doors open at 6 p.m., meeting begins at 7 p.m.
Ramada Palms de Las Cruces, Mesilla Room
201 East University Avenue, Las Cruces, NM 88805 Parking is available adjacent to the motel.

Wednesday, Feb. 29
Doors open at 6 p.m., meeting begins at 7 p.m.
Otero County Administration Building, Room 221
1101 New York Avenue, Alamogordo, N.M. 88310 Parking is available adjacent to the building. The second floor meeting room is accessible via an elevator.

Thursday, March 1
Doors open at 6 p.m.; meeting starts at 7 p.m.
Chapin High School Cafeteria
7000 Dyer Rd, El Paso, TX 79904
Parking is adjacent to the high school.

Please submit written comments by mail to: Dr. John Kipp, Fort Bliss Directorate of Public Works, Attn: IMBL-PWE (Kipp), Bldg. 624 Pleasonton Road, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916; or email: john.m.kipp6.civ@mail.mil. Comments must be received no later than 30 days after the publication of the Notice of Intent to be considered in the preparation of the EIS.

For further information please contact Ms. Jean Offutt, or Donita Kelley at Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office Attn: IMBL-PA (Attn: Offutt/Kelley), Bldg. 15 Slater Road, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916; e-mail thelma.g.offutt.civ@mail.mil or call 915-744-8435, or donita.k.schexnaydre.civ@mail.mil or call 915-568-2497.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss Survivor Outreach Services officials will conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11a.m., Friday, February 24, at the corner of Cassidy and Sheridan.

The Army is committed to the families of fallen warriors who deserve respect, gratitude and the very best the military can provide.

The Survivor Outreach Services office was created to deliver on that commitment by providing access to support, information and services for as long as the families' desire.

The new Fort Bliss SOS office has been moved to a new location. The new location is right next to the Cassidy gate, across from the Memorial Stone. The address is Building 241 Sheridan Road.

The Ribbon Cutting ceremony is in conjunction with the opening of the Hall of Remembrance which will display photographs of our Fallen Heroes.

Survivor Families living in the area are invited to share pictures of their loved ones to always honor and remember them in this special room. For additional information, please call the SOS office.

The Fort Bliss SOS is staffed with Financial Counselors and Support Coordinators. Michelle Jones is the Financial Counselor and can be reached at 568-4706. The two Support Coordinators are Lew Lewis and Janeth Lopez and can be reached at 568-5970 or 569-5287. Office hours are: Mon--Fri 730a.m. to 430p.m.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at CASSIDY Gate at 1030a.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The Fort Bliss Installation Chaplains Office will host a post-wide National Prayer Breakfast at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, Feb. 23, 7 a.m.

This event is designed to enhance the morale as well as the moral and spiritual resiliency of Soldiers and civilians alike throughout the installation and El Paso community.

Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, Commanding General of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss is scheduled as a special guest speaker. Chaplain (Brig. Gen.) Charles R. Bailey, the U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Chaplains will be the keynote speaker.

Bailey's keynote address will be from the Book of Jonah 2:1-7 and the theme for the event is, "The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective." Bailey was appointed as the 24th Deputy Chief of Chaplains, July 28, 2011. Bailey is the son of a United Methodist minister in the Nebraska Conference and has grown up living and attending school over a large part of the United States. He graduated from Texas Wesleyan University in Ft. Worth, Texas in June 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business and religion. He then attended Texas Christian University, Brite Divinity School, graduating in June 1978 with a Masters of Divinity degree, according to his biography Web site.

Media interested in covering the event please contact Sgt. Valerie Lopez by Feb. 22 to ensure a ticket and seat are reserved for you.

For more information please contact Sgt. Valerie Lopez 915-744-8499/C: 915-726-3476 or at valerie.lopez2.mil@mail.mil.

Media should be at the BIGGS GATE no later than 6:45 a.m. Feb. 23. Directions to Fort Bliss Biggs Gate: From Loop 601 exit at Sergeants Major Blvd;

FORT BLISS, Texas — Team Bliss Soldiers, their families and distinguished guests will gather at the Centennial Convention and Banquet Hall on East Fort Bliss to observe and celebrate Black History Month, Feb. 22, from 11:15 a.m.-12:45p.m.

The 212th Fires Brigade, 1st Armored Division will host the observance.

The observance will include guest speaker Dr. Sandra Braham, CEO of the YWCA El Paso del Norte Region and a civil rights display provided by Mr. Dan Webb.

Black History Month had its beginnings in 1926 in the United States and was initially celebrated on the second week of February as "Negro History Week". The holiday was later extended to the whole month of February in 1976.

If you would like to cover the event please contact Capt. Traun C. Moore, 212th Fires Brigade PAO at 915-741-4687 or at traun.c.moore@us.army.mil

Press Access: All media must be at the BIGGS Gate by 10:45 a.m. for a media vehicle convoy to the Centennial.

FORT BLISS, Texas — A 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command Soldier died in a vehicle accident Saturday, February 11, in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

The Fort Bliss Soldier is Pfc. Cesar Cortez, 24, of Oceanside, Calif.

Cortez served as a network switching systems operator-maintainer with the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 5th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. He deployed to Bahrain in December 2011 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Cortez joined the Army in March 2011 and arrived to Fort Bliss in October 2011.

Cortez's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

Cortez is survived by his parents and brother.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The Department of the Army announces the publication in the Federal Register of a Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the proposed implementation of the installation's energy, water, and solid waste sustainability programs at Fort Bliss. These initiatives will work to enhance the energy and water security of Fort Bliss which is operationally necessary, financially prudent and essential to the installation's mission. Elements of the implementation of the initiatives would occur in both Texas and New Mexico.

These initiatives seek, to the maximum extent possible, to: (1) produce as much renewable energy on the installation as it uses annually; (2) limit the consumption of freshwater resources and maximize water re-use so as not to deplete the groundwater and surface water resources of the region in quantity or quality; and (3) reduce, reuse, and recover waste streams, converting them to resource value with a goal of zero solid waste landfill disposal. By implementing this initiative at Fort Bliss, the installation seeks to ensure that it has access to energy from renewable sources and ample water supplies now and into the future.

The EIS will assess the environmental impacts associated with the implementation of a number of policies, procedures, and projects to attain the installation's goals for increased energy, water, and waste sustainability. A range of reasonable alternatives will be analyzed in the EIS. Alternatives evaluated in the EIS include different project sitings and technologies as well as efforts to conserve and recycle existing water, energy and materials used by the Army. Projects that will be evaluated in include: (1) a new purple water pipeline for more efficient recycled water distribution; (2) renewable energy development such as wind, dry-cooled solar concentrating thermal technology, geothermal systems; and (3) establishment of a Waste-to-Energy plant with adjacent landfill to convert Fort Bliss and El Paso municipal and commercial waste into energy. The EIS will also evaluate the establishment of up to 20 MW of natural gas turbines to supply back-up power as a complementary source of energy to intermittent renewable sources. The EIS will also include an evaluation of the "No Action" Alternative to not proceed with any of these projects.

Interested Tribes, federal, state, and local agencies, organizations, and the public are invited to be involved in the scoping process for the preparation of this EIS by participating in scoping meetings and/or submitting written comments. The scoping process will help identify possible alternatives, potential environmental impacts, and key issues of concern to be analyzed in the EIS. Scoping meetings will be held in El Paso, Texas and also in Las Cruces and Alamogordo, New Mexico. Reasonable alternatives that are raised during the scoping process, and capable of meeting the project purpose and need and criteria, will be considered and included for evaluation in the EIS. Notification of the times and locations for the scoping meetings will be published locally. Written comments identifying potential impacts to be analyzed in the EIS are welcomed and will be accepted within 30 days of publication of the NOI in the Federal Register.

Please submit written comments by mail to: Dr. John Kipp, Fort Bliss Directorate of Public Works, Attn: IMBL-PWE (Kipp), Bldg. 624 Pleasonton Road, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916; or email: john.m.kipp6.civ@mail.mil. Comments must be received no later than 30 days after the publication of the Notice of Intent to be considered in the preparation of the EIS.

For further information please contact Ms. Jean Offutt, or Donita Kelley at Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office Attn: IMBL-PA (Attn: Offutt/Kelley), Bldg. 15 Slater Road, Fort Bliss, Texas 79916; e-mail thelma.g.offutt.civ@mail.mi or call 915-744-8435, or donita.k.schexnaydre.civ@mail.mil or call 915-568-2497.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Joint Task Force North, the Department of Defense organization tasked to provide military support to the nation's federal law enforcement agencies, will conduct a promotion ceremony in honor of U.S. Army Colonel Mark R. Stammer.

Colonel Stammer, who assumed command of JTF North on 9 September 2011, will be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.

SPECIAL MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:

LOCATION: Fort Bliss & Old Ironsides Museums (OLD PX) ---1735 Marshall Rd.

CEREMONY TIME: 3 P.M.

MEDIA ARRIVAL TIME: 2 p.m. --- Fort Bliss' CASSIDY GATE (US-54 and Cassidy) Media must be cleared for entry to the installation – PLEASE NO LATE ARRIVALS

SPECIAL NOTE: Based on event security requirements, it is requested that no public announcements regarding this event be made prior to the actual ceremony. Media support of this request is highly appreciated.

To confirm your participation or for additional information contact:

Mr. Armando Carrasco, JTF North Public Affairs Officer Office phone: (915)313-7621 / Cell phone: (915)472-2323

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss is breaking new ground to find an industry partner to develop a sustainable Net Zero Community that could change the way that the Army approaches housing for Soldiers and Families.

Fort Bliss, the home of the 1st Armored Division, through the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to determine if an interested industry partner is qualified to provide and operate a Net Zero Plus Housing Community to accommodate enlisted Families and a Net Zero Plus Housing Community to accommodate multiple Family units at Fort Bliss. The "Plus" in Net Zero will encompass innovative ways to leverage the renewable energy, water, and waste resources in the Net Zero Community for other Army purposes (the RFQ is located at https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=7b134dfd48e8f0adcc87e014633883f1&tab=core&_cview=0 under solicitation number W9126G-12-R-0058).

The Army will ensure that all concepts for a Net Zero Community will be analyzed through the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process prior to any decisions.

Fort Bliss has been designated by the Army as a Pilot Integrated Net Zero Installation to achieve net zero status in Energy, Water, and Waste by 2020. Fort Bliss aims to achieve Net Zero Energy by 2015 to be followed by Net Zero Water and Waste by 2018. This program is the tip of the spear for the Army push to become energy, water, and waste efficient and secure across its infrastructure.

At Fort Bliss, large contributors to the consumption of electrical power and water, as well as a significant contribution to the overall waste stream, are the Soldier and Family residential units. Fort Bliss has grown significantly in the past few years and is now in need of additional housing for Soldiers and Families. Fort Bliss is planning on expanding housing with an eye to maximize home design and operation efficiency to achieve a Net Zero Plus Community for energy, water, and waste, where the community is not only sustainable and Net Zero, but has the ability to offset energy, water, and waste needs for the rest of the post.

Fort Bliss and USACE are seeking construction that meets the standards for the Residential Communities Initiative (RCI) Family Housing Program (additional information regarding RCI, as well as construction standards, can be found at http://www.rci.army.mil/). Sustainability and quality of life amenities are highly valued and include, but are not limited to, pools, libraries, retail spaces, bike paths, landscaped common use outdoor spaces, and pedestrian friendly environments. Additionally, the construction is expected to meet, at a minimum, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver standards. However, higher LEED levels are encouraged.

According to Col. Joseph A. Simonelli, Jr., Fort Bliss Garrison Commander, "Fort Bliss is seeking a path, to be implemented as soon as practical, to provide housing to our Soldiers and Families that addresses our critical shortfall of at least 1,800 3-5 bedroom single family homes and 500 two-bedroom-two-bathroom apartments. This 'Net Zero Plus Community' will be sustainable for energy, water, and waste and support the needs of the rest of the post. Additionally, this concept will include sustainability factors that improve the quality of life for soldiers and families. With the right approach, we can take care of our soldiers and families and help sustain the Army for the future."

Col. Simonelli added that the RFQ must be evaluated so that the Army can validate the proposed concepts for legal, regulatory, technical, and financial viability. A successful review and validation by Army subject matter experts will pave the way to follow on contracting actions for a partnership to construct these homes. The Department of the Army has increasingly recognized that energy and water use and waste management across the footprint of Army installations and operations is occurring at levels which must be comprehensively reduced and must be augmented with sustainable strategies, such as implementing a greater percentage of energy from renewable energy sources. Fort Bliss must strive to meet the requirements of Congressional legislation and Executive Orders, which mandate change in our nation's energy consumption and production as well as water and waste management, as well as Fort Bliss' own goals for 2015 and 2018.

For energy, the legislated, Executive Order, and Army energy mandates and cultural initiatives support Army-wide goals of improving its resiliency and endurance as a military force. These include:

1) Surety: Preventing loss of access to power and fuel sources.
2) Supply: Accessing alternative and renewable energy sources available to the installation.
3) Sustainability: Promoting support for the Army's mission, its community, and the environment.
4) Sufficiency: Providing adequate power for critical missions.
5) Survivability: Ensuring resilience in energy systems.

Ms. Katherine Hammack, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and the Environment (ASA IE&E), views Net Zero Energy as an installation that produces as much renewable energy on site as it consumes, over the course of a year. For Net Zero Water, the installation limits use of potable fresh water then captures, repurposes or recharges an amount of water equal to or greater than the amount of water it consumes. The net zero water strategy is of increasing importance since scarcity of clean potable water is quickly becoming a serious issue in many countries around the world. The continued draw-down of major aquifers results in significant problems for our future.

Ms. Hammack goes on to describe the approach to creating a net zero waste installation is similar to creating a net zero energy installation. The components of net zero solid waste start with reducing the amount of waste generated, re-purposing waste, maximizing recycling of waste stream to reclaim recyclable and compostable materials, recovery to generate energy as a by-product of waste reduction, with disposal being non-existent. Many strategies exist to achieve these aims for waste, including diverting waste to a waste-to-energy process that will produce near base load energy for the Army.

More information on the Army's Net Zero Pilot program is available online at http://army-energy.hqda.pentagon.mil/netzero/default.asp .

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss' Army Community Services ends its "Year of Volunteering" campaign with the presentation of service awards, Tuesday, January 31, at 1:30p.m. at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center.

The purpose of the Year of Volunteering was to promote the value of volunteering in the Fort Bliss and El Paso communities and an appreciation for the volunteers who came forward to make a difference in everyday life.

The goals of the campaign were to:
• Empower volunteer organizations and enhance the quality of volunteering
• Increase awareness of the value and importance of volunteering, and
• Increase recognition of volunteers and volunteer activities

Last year thousands of volunteers made a commitment to make a change in the community. They all decided that they would "Resolve to Serve". Their commitments to volunteer resulted in success for various projects throughout the Fort Bliss and El Paso communities.

Last year's various volunteer projects included; working with needy children, providing service in homeless shelters, teaching and mentoring various school age kids and building Homes for Our Troops. The goal in 2011 was to provide service in various fields in order to allow our community to flourish and prosper.

The "Year of Volunteering" celebration of service awards will be hosted by Colonel Joseph Simonelli Jr., Fort Bliss Garrison Commander and the keynote speaker is El Paso County Judge Veronica Escobar.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate 1P.M. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss is hosting more than 300 trainees, mentors, battalion commanders and contingency contracting officers during Joint Dawn January 21st – February 2nd.

Joint Dawn is an annual forum and exercise that brings together cross services military leaders to discuss common challenges, exchange views and ideas, while building trusted relationships.

The exercise was designed to train Soldiers on "warrior tasks" in addition to a variety of contracting-specific tasks.

Exercise organizers recognize global trends affecting various regions and are dedicated to providing a premier exercise that supports cultivating a trained and ready workforce.

This type of training and exercise is expected to lead to better interoperability and mutual understanding of both the contemporary and contracting operating environment.

By collectively addressing disaster relief and humanitarian assistance operations in this forum, trainers will enhance the ability to find cooperative solutions for protecting military forces and citizens.

Participants include active Army and Air Force, Army National Guard, and Army Reservists from various locations across the United States.

Media interested in attending the first session on 23 Jan should be at Cassidy gate at 7:30 a.m. The event will be ongoing throughout the morning and media can join at anytime. Media will visit convoy simulator training, go to EST 2000, and to MRAP/HUUWV rollover then to medical skills training. At all sites, media will be able to participate with the military and civilians in the training and interview them as well.

A media roundtable is scheduled for 30 Jan at 9 a.m. with Brig. Gen. Joseph Bass, Commanding General, Expeditionary Contracting Command and Command Sgt. Maj. Angel Clark-Davis to discuss the mission and the importance of this training before the individuals deploy.

MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT Lt. Col. Martha K. Brooks, PAO, ECC at 770-876-7198 or Dieter Jester at 915-744-8436.

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Media opportunities will be made available on Jan 23 & 30. More information to follow.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Sunday morning's deadly shooting near an El Paso area night club resulted in the death of Fort Bliss Soldier and injuries to two other victims.

Army Pvt. Damien W. Bailey, 21, of Carrboro, N.C., he was assigned to 4-501st Attack Battalion, 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade. Bailey, an AH-64 Attack Helicopter Repairer, entered the Army from Raleigh, N.C., January 2011. He was previously stationed at Fort Sill, Okla., and Fort Eustis, Va.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

"We are extremely saddened at the very tragic and unnecessary loss of one of our 1st Armored Division and Team Bliss Soldiers. We are working closely with the El Paso Police Department in their ongoing investigation, and their efforts to bring the individual(s) involved to justice. We are keeping his family, friends and fellow Soldiers in our thoughts and prayers, who are dealing with the tragic loss," said Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, Commanding General of 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss

The other victims include one who is still under treatment and another who was treated and released from area hospitals.

The El Paso Police Department continues its investigation and queries concerning this incident should be addressed to them. Members of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigations Division are also assisting in this investigation.



NOTE:
Maj. Gen. Pittard will conduct a media availability, Thursday, Jan. 19, at 12:00pm at the 1st Armored Division Headquarters.

Instructions: Arrive at GLOBAL REACH gate at 11:20pm (Escort: MSG McCargo, Cell: 580-583-8553)

Media RSVP to Lt. Col Swanson at swanny.swanson@us.army.mil or MAJ Caggins at myles.caggins@us.army.mil call: 915-744-8498/8492/8406

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss representatives will formally accept the donation of the El Paso Association Builders Sun Bowl Parade Gingerbread House Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m. Children from the Replica Strong Beginnings will be on hand to see the turnover.

EPAB Executive Vice President Ray Adauto contacted Fort Bliss officials last month expressing an interest in donating the Gingerbread House to the children of Soldiers.

The house will be used by the SKIESUnlimited Program which is part of Fort Bliss' Child, Youth and School Services.

The Gingerbread House was constructed by professional tradesmen from the association, decorated, and placed in the Sun Bowl Parade held Thanksgiving Day. It is constructed of wood, incorporating recycled green materials, and comes complete with the decorations. The floor is carpeted with artificial grass like carpeting (inside and out).

Media interested in covering this event should meet at Cassidy Gate at 10 a.m., Jan. 9. Please call 568-2497 or 568-4601 to confirm participation.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The Sun Bowl Teams will visit Fort Bliss Soldiers this afternoon. Media wishing to cover Georgia Tech should meet at the Global Reach Gate at 1:45 p.m. Those wishing to cover Utah should meet at the Robert E. Lee Gate at 1:45 p.m.

Teams will be welcomed by Fort Bliss officials and visit the Engagement Skills Trainer and the Tanks/Static Displays/ Simulators. They will conclude their visit with dinner at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center, which includes entertainment by a hypnotist.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The 5th Battalion, 52nd Air and Missile Defense is scheduled to deploy to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Tuesday, Dec. 20.

The "Fighting Deuce" battalion, commanded by Lt. Col. James Ellerson, will bid farewell to family and friends prior to boarding their flight to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The battalion, part of 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 32d Army Air and Missile Defense command, is scheduled to conduct a 12-month deployment. The battalion consists of approximately 500 personnel who have been conducting training for more than a year in preparation for this deployment.

The 32d AAMDC consists of four brigades and 13 battalions located on six different installations in the continental United States. They are the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located here; the 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Sill, Okla.; the 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Hood, Texas; the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Bragg, N.C.; the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery, located at Fort Lewis, Wash.; and the 2nd Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery, at Fort Campbell, Ky.

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Media interested in covering the deployment activities, must contact the 32d AAMDC public affairs office at 915-726-4631 no later than 11 a.m., Dec. 20 to coordinate for an escort to the event.

FORT BLISS, Texas — A Fort Bliss Soldier supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died Dec. 13, in Landstuhl, Germany. Pvt. Jalfred D. Vaquerano died of injuries suffered from enemy small-arms fire while deployed in Logar province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.

"We the 1st Armored Division and Team Bliss are keeping Pvt. Vaquerano's family, friends and fellow Soldiers in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. "Keep all of our Servicemembers in your prayers and remember FREEDOM IS DEFINITELY NOT FREE," he added.

Vaquerano, 20 of Apopka, Fla., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Tampa, Fla., January 2011. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga. Vaquerano's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

A memorial ceremony in honor of this fallen Soldier will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406.

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Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Just in time for the holidays, the next group of Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, return to Fort Bliss from Iraq, today, 15 Dec 2011, at Biggs Army Airfield.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. Soldiers will continue to re-deploy to Fort Bliss over the next several days.


Flights times are subject to change

Media representatives that want to attend should meet at Biggs Gate at 8:00 p.m. to be escorted to the arrival site

Point of contact for this press conference is MAJ Myles Caggins; myles.b.caggins.mil@mail.mil or 915-744-8498

UPDATE Media interested in covering this event should be at Cassidy gate at 10:45 a.m.

The Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders to visit Freedom Crossing

FORT BLISS, Texas — The Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders will visit Freedom Crossing, Thursday, Dec. 15 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The squad will host a Meet & Greet inside the food court and will be available for photos and autographs. At 6 p.m. the cheerleaders will perform a special holiday show on stage at the event lawn outside The Grand Theatre.

For more information, call (720) 529-2829.
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Editor's Note: Please call and confirm your participation.

FORT BLISS, Texas — A memorial service will be held for the three Fort Bliss Soldiers who died 3 Dec 2011 in Mosul, Afghanistan while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

The service will be held in Chapel One 14 Dec 2011.

Sgt. First Class Clark A. Corley, Jr., Spc. Ryan M. Lumley, and Spc. Thomas J. Mayberry died of injuries sustained during an IED attack. All were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.

"1st Armored Division and Team Bliss lost three outstanding Soldiers on Dec. 3 in eastern Afghanistan. We are keeping their wives, children, families and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. "Our three Soldiers gave the last full measure of devotion for what they believed in and fought for every single one of us. Freedom is definitely not free," he added.

Corley, 35 of Oxnard, Calif., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army December 1995. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga., Fort Irwin, Calif., Fort Lee, Va., Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Camp Hovey, Korea, and Fort Hood, Texas. His military education includes Hazardous Materials Certification, Radiological Safety, Action Officer Development Course and Sling Load Inspection Certification. Corley's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal-Fourth Award, National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Expert Infantryman Badge. He is survived by his spouse and one child.

Lumley, 21 of Lakeland, Fla., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Tampa, Fla., March 2009. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga. Lumley's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. He is survived by his spouse.

Mayberry, 21, of Springville, Calif., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Oakland, Calif., January 2009. His previous assignments include Fort Benning, Ga. and Camp Casey, Korea. Mayberry's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

All three Soldiers were posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. A memorial ceremony in honor of these fallen Soldiers will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations. The "Bulldog" Soldiers are joining a joint, combined NATO military coalition, comprised of U.S. Marines, Airmen and Sailors, and about 70 international militaries forces throughout Afghanistan. "NATO forces mission is to respond to crises, and deter or defeat state and non-state aggression. NATO forces will also support the development and reconstruction of Afghanistan in order to establish the conditions for regional security, stability, and prosperity," according the CENTCOM Web Site.



Media representatives that want to attend should meet at Cassidy Gate at 10:15 a.m. to be escorted to the chapel.

Point of contact for this memorial is LTC Dennis R Swanson; dennis.r.swanson4.mil@mail.mil or 915-744-8406 and Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Just in time for the holidays, the next group of Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division UPDATED INFORMATION FLIGHT WITH COLORS AND COMMANDER ARRIVES TODAY 12 DEC AT APROX. 6 P.M.

This early re-deployment will bring home the Brigade Commander and the unit colors and is in conjunction with the Dec 31, 2011, final withdrawal, from the Iraqi theater of operations. The unit deployed to Iraq in August of this year.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. Soldiers will continue to re-deploy to Fort Bliss over the next several days.

Flights times are subject to change

Media representatives that want to attend should meet at Global Reach Gate at 5:30 p.m. to be escorted to the arrival site

Point of contact for this press conference is LTC Dennis R Swanson; dennis.r.swanson4.mil@mail.mil or 915-744-8406 and Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492.
Fort Bliss Global Reach Gate can be reached from Loop 601 exit at Global Reach Dr.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss' 1st Armored Division Band presents its annual holiday concert, Home for the Holidays. The concert will be held December 11, at 2:00 p.m., UTEP's Magoffin Auditorium, Hawthorne Street, El Paso, TX 79968. An appearance from Santa and a "sing-along" will be featured at this holiday spirited, family friendly event. Doors open at 1 p.m. for ticketholders and 1:30 p.m. for non-ticket holders. All Army Band performances are free and open to the public. Tickets are available at ITR Freedom Crossing, Public Affairs Office, Bldg. 15, Slater Rd. and PAO, Bldg. 11865, East Bliss. For more information, call 744-8432 or 568-4601 http://www.facebook.com/1starmoreddivisionband
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Media interested in a pre-story contact Virginia Reza at 744-8432.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, the Commanding General of 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss is scheduled to conduct a press conference today to address how the Department of Defense mandated civilian employee work force reduction will affect Fort Bliss personnel.

The Press Conference will be at the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Headquarters Building, 11685 Sergeants Major Blvd at 3:45 p.m.

In July, the Army announced a planned reduction of approximately 8,700 positions by Sept. 30, 2012. These cuts are based on Department of Defense resource decisions as reflected in the fiscal 2012 President's Budget and require a reduction of Army civilian employees to comply with decreased funding levels, according to a DoD press release.

The Army has identified 70 different locations affected by these reductions across eight commands and agencies with nearly 90 percent of the cuts taking place within Installation Management Command, Army Materiel Command, and Training and Doctrine Command, according to a DoD press release.

Thirty seven states will be affected by these reductions with the majority of personnel cuts occurring in those states with the largest military and Army civilian populations, according to a DoD press release.

Though the reductions are relatively low at Fort Bliss, Pittard is concerned about families and employees who will be affected by this plan.

DoD has implemented civilian employee transition assistance programs to alleviate the work force reduction. Such initiatives are job placement and exchanges, interagency career transition and voluntary separation incentives, according to the DoD Transition Assistance Overview website.


Media representatives that want to attend this Press Conference should meet at Global Reach Gate at 3:10 p.m. to be escorted to the conference site.

Point of contact for this press conference is LTC Dennis R Swanson; dennis.r.swanson4.mil@mail.mil or 915-744-8406 and Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492.

Fort Bliss Global Reach Gate can be reached from Loop 601 exit at Global Reach Dr.

The DoD Transition Assistance Overview website is: http://www.cpms.osd.mil/brac/brac_overview.aspx

FORT BLISS, Texas — A deployment ceremony for the 5th Battalion, 52nd Air and Missile Defense is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 9 at Stout Gym here.

The "Fighting Deuce" battalion, commanded by Lt. Col. James Ellerson, will deploy to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to provide Patriot air defense in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The battalion, part of 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 32d Army Air and Missile Defense command, is scheduled to conduct a 12-month deployment. The battalion consists of approximately 500 personnel who have been conducting training for more than a year in preparation for this deployment.

The 32d AAMDC consists of four brigades and 13 battalions located on six different installations in the continental United States. They are the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located here; the 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Sill, Okla.; the 69th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Hood, Texas; the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade located at Fort Bragg, N.C.; the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery, located at Fort Lewis, Wash.; and the 2nd Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery, at Fort Campbell, Ky.

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Media interested in attending the ceremony, must contact the 32d AAMDC public affairs office at 915-568-3328 no later than 9 a.m., Dec. 9 to coordinate for an escort to the ceremony.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Three Fort Bliss Soldiers supporting Operation Enduring Freedom died Dec. 3, in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Sgt. First Class Clark A. Corley, Jr., Spc. Ryan M. Lumley, and Spc. Thomas J. Mayberry wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device. All were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.

"1st Armored Division and Team Bliss lost three outstanding Soldiers on Dec. 3 in eastern Afghanistan. We are keeping their wives, children, families and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," stated Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard, commanding general, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. "Our three Soldiers gave the last full measure of devotion for what they believed in and fought for every single one of us. Freedom is definitely not free," he added.

Corley, 35 of Oxnard, Calif., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army December 1995. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga., Fort Irwin, Calif., Fort Lee, Va., Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Camp Hovey, Korea, and Fort Hood, Texas. His military education includes Hazardous Materials Certification, Radiological Safety, Action Officer Development Course and Sling Load Inspection Certification. Corley's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal-Fourth Award, National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Expert Infantryman Badge. He is survived by his spouse and one child.

Lumley, 21 of Lakeland, Fla., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Tampa, Fla., March 2009. He was previously stationed at Fort Benning, Ga. Lumley's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon. He is survived by his spouse.

Mayberry, 21, of Springville, Calif., was an Infantryman (MOS 11B) who entered the Army from Oakland, Calif., January 2009. His previous assignments include Fort Benning, Ga. and Camp Casey, Korea. Mayberry's awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with a Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. Mayberry was posthumously promoted to the rank of Specialist. He is survived by his spouse.

A memorial ceremony in honor of these fallen Soldiers will be coordinated and announced at a later date.

Soldiers from the 3-1 BCT deployed to Southwest Asia in September and October 2011, to provide stability and security operations.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the First Armored Division Public Affairs at 915-744-8406. -30- Editor's Note: In the event of any casualty, no local official release or announcement can be made until clearance is received by higher headquarters.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Just in time for the holidays, the next group of Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, return to Fort Bliss from Iraq, tonight at Biggs Army Airfield.

This early re-deployment of approximately 200-300 Soldiers is in conjunction with the Dec 31, 2011, final withdrawal, from the Iraqi theater of operations. The unit deployed to Iraq in August of this year.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. Soldiers will continue to re-deploy to Fort Bliss over the next several days.

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FLIGHT TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Interested media must be at BIGGS Gate at 10:00 p.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8406 / 203-3769 or 744-8492 / 781-3143. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Just in time for the holidays, the next group of Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, return to Fort Bliss from Iraq, tomorrow morning at approximately 730a.m. at Biggs Army Airfield.

This early re-deployment of approximately 200 Soldiers is in conjunction with the Dec 31, 2011 final with drawl, from the Iraqi theater of operations. The unit deployed to Iraq in August of this year.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. Soldiers will continue to re-deploy to Fort Bliss over the next several weeks.

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FLIGHT TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Interested media must be at BIGGS Gate at 7a.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8406 / 203-3769 or 744-8492 / 781-3143. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss officials will conduct a ground breaking ceremony at 1p.m. Tuesday, Nov 29 for the new Fort Bliss Aquatic Training Center. Location of the ground breaking is across from Soto Gym on East Fort Bliss. This project is the final build on the main East Bliss Town Circle and will include three indoor swimming pools. Each pool has been designed to support mission requirements during physical training and then convert to recreational needs of the Fort Bliss community.

• Pools
50 meter Olympic Pool: Will include a moving bulkhead that can isolate different areas to allow multiple activities. Placement in center of pool changes lap swimming from 8 lanes (50 meters) to 16 lanes (25 meters). Pool consists of multiple depths to allow for competitive swim competitions (long and short season), intramural inner-tube water polo, water volleyball, water aerobics, etc.

• Deep Water Diving tank
3 meter platform and (2) 1 meter boards. Supports Unit drown-proofing, scuba classes and recreation diving.

• Multipurpose pool
Temperature can be increased 92 degrees to support Wounded Warrior/Physical Therapy; or 82 degrees to support SWET Training. Can support multiple recreational activities - 12 foot Climbing Wall, Water Volleyball, Water Basketball, Water Aerobics, Swim Lessons etc.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

**UPDATED

FORT BLISS, TEXAS - No additional information on this incident will be forthcoming until family members of the deceased have been notified thru official military channels. Fort Bliss officials estimate that may be some time tomorrow.

Fort Bliss Military Police were notified this morning by the Team Bliss Operations center of an off post shooting incident which resulted in the death of two Soldiers.

Names of deceased Soldiers are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Law enforcement officials from the El Paso Police Department are investigating the incident and Fort Bliss police officials have offered assistance.

The Fort Bliss community extends its thoughts and prayers to the families, friends and Soldiers of the Fort Bliss family.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss Military Police were notified this morning by the Team Bliss Operations center of an off post shooting incident which resulted in the death of two Soldiers.

Names of deceased Soldiers are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Law enforcement officials from the El Paso Police Department are investigating the incident and Fort Bliss police officials have offered assistance.

The Fort Bliss community extends its thoughts and prayers to the families, friends and Soldiers of the Fort Bliss family.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The next iteration of Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, return to Fort Bliss from Iraq, this afternoon at approximately 4p.m. at Biggs Army Airfield.

This early re-deployment of approximately 350 Soldiers is in conjunction with the Dec 31, 2011 final with drawl, from the Iraqi theater of operations. The unit deployed to Iraq in August of this year.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. Soldiers will continue to redeploy to Fort Bliss over the next several weeks. Maj. Gen Dana J.H. Pittard commander 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss will be at the e arrival ceremony along with family members.

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FLIGHT TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Interested media must be at BIGGS Gate at 330Pm for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage thru the Public Affairs Office at 744-8403 or 744-8406. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss will host a Post Wide Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 19) in all post housing including west post, Biggs, Beaumont, Logan Heights, Hayes and 801 Housing (off Martin Luther King Blvd.). All Fort Bliss residents are encouraged to participate.

This event is open to the El Paso and surrounding communities. All guests entering Fort Bliss property will be required to have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and valid car registration and safety inspection sticker; and will be subject to vehicle search.

Please note that military police will not allow yard sale shoppers in the housing areas prior to 8 a.m.

For information, please call 568-6741.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss officials will host the new U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Raymond T. Odierno TODAY.

During the visit Gen. Odierno will visit the Network Integration Evaluation , hold sensing sessions with brigade, battalion, battery and company commanders. Additionally he will receive updates on family and soldier support programs and facilities. While at White Sands Missile Range, Odierno will also receive briefings during field training exercises which includes a training operations overview.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate at 3pm for escort to the site. Gen. Odinero will hold a short press conference to accommodate media at 4pm at the 1st Armored Division Headquarters. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. YOU MUST RSVP. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss Officials and Soldiers will conduct a Veterans Day Ceremony at 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov 10 in front of the 1st Armored Division Headquarters off Sergeants Major Blvd. The ceremony will be hosted by 1st AD and Fort Bliss Commanding General Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard and will honor veterans of the past, present and those still serving the nation. Veterans Day is dedicated to the extraordinary Americans who protect our freedom in the years past and those who protect it today.

Veterans represent the very best of our Nation. Every Soldier, Marine, Sailor, Airman and Coast Guardsman has earned the lasting gratitude of the American people and their service and sacrifice will be remembered forever.

All El Paso area veterans' organizations, individual veterans, family members, the Fort Bliss community and the public are invited to this FREE event. Veteran organizations are encouraged to bring their colors to the ceremony. The community at large is also invited to the ceremony to honor America's veterans.

More than 600 area veterans have been invited and are expected to attend this event.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Global Reach Gate at 1:30 p.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke Visit/Town Hall FORT BLISS, Texas-Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke will visit Fort Bliss Soldiers and Families Thursday, Nov. 10. Activities include the Chairman greeting Soldiers returning from deployment and hosting a Town Hall meeting with Soldiers and their Families.

This is the Chairman's first visit to an Army installation and first opportunity to greet Soldiers returning from a combat zone.

News media wanting to cover the Chairman greeting 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division Soldiers returning from deployment should be at Biggs Gate at 3 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 10.

News media wanting to cover the Chairman's Town Hall should be at Biggs Gate at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 10. Opportunities for camera hook ups, wireless capabilities, phone lines, and live streaming video are available.

The Town Hall is available via the internet at http://71.40.192.46/Bernanke_Ft_Bliss . Viewers have to enter this address into the Media Play manually. It is also available on Internet Explorer rtsp://143.78.202.254/VBrickVideo1 .

Fort Bliss POC for these events are LTC Dennis Swanson 1AD PAO, 915-744-8406 BB: 915-203-3769; Jean Offutt, Garrison Public Affairs Officer, 915-744-8435, BB: 915-637-6821 and MAJ Myles Caggins, 1st Armored Division Deputy Public Affairs Officer, 915-744-8498/BB; 254-371-5704. MSG Kelly McCargo, 1AD PAO NCOIC, 915-744-8498, BB: 580-583-8553

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Editors' Note: Chairman Bernanke's biography is attached.

Out of town media: Directions to Biggs Gate:

1) From US54, take the Spur 601 exit, follow to/take the Sergeants Major Blvd (Sgt Maj Blvd) exit, this leads you to Biggs Gate.

2) From I10, take Airway Blvd exit, follow to Airport Road, turn right on Airport Road, follow to Sergeants Major Blvd (Sgt Maj Blvd) turn off (right lane turns onto Sgt Maj Blvd), this leads you to Biggs Gate. NOTE: When approaching the gate, be in right lane and pull over to parking area just before gate, media escort will meet you at this point. Have Driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration handy.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss' Freedom Crossing will host the UTEP Miner football team in a wing eating contest against Fort Bliss Soldiers. The Miner visit is scheduled at Freedom Crossing between 12 and 1 p.m., Tuesday, Nov 8.

Additional events include:
• An autograph session with the UTEP Football players they will autograph, footballs, posters or even your T-Shirts!
• Freedom Crossing will give away "Coupons" for some of the food court vendors.
• USO will have a gaming station.
• UTEP will give away an autographed football for the most "Spirited Unit," along with other UTEP mementos.
Join Fort Bliss Soldiers and the UTEP Football Team at Freedom Crossing on Tuesday, Nov. 8, from 12 to 1 p.m. to cheer the UTEP Miners in support of the upcoming football game "Military Night" scheduled for Saturday, Nov12, against the East Carolina Pirates.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate 30 minutes prior for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss officials will host nearly 100 El Paso area educators at "Camp Bliss", an initiative designed to provide educators the opportunity to observe and participate in a day of the life of a Soldier and to familiarize the visitors with the post. "Camp Bliss" is scheduled for 8a.m. to 2p.m. Saturday, Nov 5 at various installation locations.

Nearly 100 educators are expected to participate in the event which includes; the Rappel Tower, EST 2000, Fort Bliss Museum, Ready One Dining Facility and windshield tour of East Fort Bliss.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at Cassidy Gate 9a.m. for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8432. Call and confirm your participation / attendance. MEDIA ARE INVITED TO COVER THE 1ST EVENT AT THE RAPPEL TOWER WHICH IS 915-1015A.M.

FORT BLISS, Texas — FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss officials are pleased to inform the general public that the popular Adopt-A-Soldier program will begin taking requests/reservations on Wednesday, Nov. 2 through Nov. 20.

If you are interested in participating in the program and adopting a Soldier for the Thanksgiving Holiday please go to the Fort Bliss web site http://www.bliss.army.mil ; look for the bouncing Turkey and click it to make a reservation. Soldiers will also go to the same site and register themselves for adoption.

Military families of deployed personnel may also participate in the adoptions.

Adoptors can specify the amount of Soldiers and/or family size they would like to adopt. If you don't have a computer, you may request a Soldier by calling 915-744-8402/8498.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The very FIRST Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, return to Fort Bliss from Iraq, this evening at approximately 805p.m. at El Paso International Airport.

This early re-deployment is in conjunction with the Dec 31, 2011 final with drawl, from the Iraqi theater of operations. The unit deployed to Iraq in August of this year.

Their mission was to train, advise and assist the Iraqi Army and Security Forces. The early re-deployment Soldiers are part of an advance party that will begin preparations to receive two battalions of the brigade.

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Media planning on covering this event must coordinate with EPIA; aircraft arrival times are subject to change (this bird is coming from DF/W)

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss law enforcement officials were notified at approximately 12noon today that a Soldier had isolated himself in his home.

The area was immediately condoned to ensure the safety of the residents and traffic was re-routed. Following 2 hours of dialogue between the Soldier and Fort Bliss officials the individual voluntarily exited the home.

Fort Bliss law enforcement officials emphasize there was never any reason for residents to be concerned about safety in the area.

The Soldier has since been transported to William Beaumont Army Medical Center for observation and evaluation. Military law enforcement continues to investigate the incident.

FORT BLISS, Texas — The public is invited to attend the Fort Bliss Restoration Advisory Board's quarterly meeting at the Northeast Regional Command Police Department, 6:30 p.m., Oct. 19. The Northeast Regional Command Police Department is located at 9600 Dyer Street.

The agenda includes introducing the new civilian co-chair (Dr. Richard Langford) and the TCEQ representative, the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study of Maneuver Areas 1 and 2, and the state of the Castner Range area.

The Restoration Advisory Board's mission is to promote the restoration of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems at Fort Bliss through collaborative efforts with the Army, cooperating and regulatory agencies, and the communities in West Texas and Southern New Mexico.

Restoration Advisory Boards are the cornerstone of the Department of Defense's enhanced approach to involving stakeholders in the cleanup process of sites that have been formerly used for military activities. RABs allow members of the community and representatives of the installation, the Environmental Protection Agency, state regulatory agencies, and local governments to work together toward a common goal.

For more information, call (915) 373-2446.

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Editor's Note: Media interested in covering this event should contact Donita Kelley, Fort Bliss Public Affairs Office, (915) 568-2497/4601. Please call and confirm your participation.

The Commander
German Armed Forces Command
United States and Canada

Brigadier General Hasso Körtke

Cordially Invites You to Attend the
Change of Command Ceremony
From
Colonel Michael Kuhn
Outgoing Commander, German Air Force
Command United States and Canada
to
Colonel Heinz-Josef Ferkinghoff
Incoming Commander, German Air Force
Command United States and Canada

October 13th, 2011 at 09:00 a.m.

The Ceremony will be held at the "Noel Field ",
next to the Old Fort Bliss Replica.
The Public is invited.

RSVP by November
Phone: 915-568-2601 / 3126

For further Information please call the
German Air Force Command USA/CAN
Public Affairs Office
Phone: 915-568-2601 / 3126



- Local Media interested in covering this event should contact CSM Jürgen Volmer, PAO (915) 568-2601 or the German Air Force PAO Sergeant, 915 568-3126. Confirmed media representatives will meet at 8:30 a.m., October 13th 2011, at Fort Bliss Cassidy Gate. Please take in consideration, that members of the Media probably need "Day-Passes" to enter the military installation. Please call and confirm your participation.

FORT BLISS, Texas — A 32d Army Air and Missile Defense Command Soldier died Monday, October 10, in Doha, Qatar. The cause of death is currently under investigation.

The Fort Bliss Soldier is Chief Warrant Officer James B. Wilke, 38, of Ione, Calif.

Wilke served as a Patriot Weapons System Technician with the 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. He deployed to Qatar in January 2011.

Wilke joined the Army in June 1992 and arrived to Fort Bliss in January 2007.

Wilke's awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, and the Parachutist Badge.

Wilke is survived by his wife and mother.

FORT BLISS, Texas — Several hundred 1st Armored Division, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Soldiers are scheduled to depart Fort Bliss and deploy to Afghanistan, Oct. 5.

The Soldiers will be staged at Soto gym for final accountability before transferring to the FB Army Airfield Arrival and Departure Gate.

The 3-1 "Bulldogs" cased their Brigade Colors Sept. 9 during a ceremony at East Bliss and will deploy approximately 3,000 Soldiers during September and October time frame.

The "Bulldog" Soldiers are joining a joint, combined NATO military coalition, comprised of U.S. Marines, Airmen and Sailors, and about 70 international militaries forces throughout Afghanistan. "NATO forces mission is to respond to crises, and deter or defeat state and non-state aggression. NATO forces will also support the development and reconstruction of Afghanistan in order to establish the conditions for regional security, stability, and prosperity," according the CENTCOM Web Site.

To attend the family departure media representatives must RSVP no later than Oct. 5 at 10 a.m. Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492 or Maj. Myles Caggins myles.caggins@us.army.mil 915-744-8498.


Directions to Fort Bliss Biggs Gate From Spur 601 exit at Sergeants Major Blvd.

Established in 1848, Fort Bliss is the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. Fort Bliss is undergoing the largest expansion of any military installation since World War II. Spread across 1.2 million acres in West Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss is home of the 1st Armored Division and 26,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Since 2001, over 200,000 servicemembers have deployed through Fort Bliss to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. http://www.bliss.army.mil

Fort Bliss Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/army.bliss

FORT BLISS, TEXAS

At approximately 3 p.m. Saturday afternoon, a Fort Bliss Soldier was hit by a moving train, resulting in fatal injuries.

The Soldier Spec., Jesse Gilbert, 23, was in the vicinity of the railroad tracks, North of Cassidy Gate and did not notice the approaching train.

Family members were notified of the incident, and are planning funeral arrangements. Gilbert is survived by his wife and child.

Gilbert joined the U.S. Army in March 2009, in Centerville, Tenn. His military job (MOS 13B) was to be a cannon crewmember for an artillery weapons system.

Gilbert was assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division. His awards include the National Defense Service Ribbon.

The El Paso Police Department continues to investigate.

Retiree Appreciation Day

FORT BLISS, TEXAS— Retiree Appreciation Day (RAD) will be observed on Saturday, September 24, 2011 from 9a.m. to 130p.m., at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy (Auditorium). Retirees (all services), widows, survivors and family members are invited to attend.

Keynote Speaker will be Colonel John W. Radke, U.S. Army (Retired), Chief, Army Retirement Services, Headquarters, Department of the Army. He will brief on current and pending legislation that impacts our retirees, widows and Family members to include other topics of interest such as Survivor Benefits.

Speakers from WBAMC, the Base Transformation Office, Veterans Administration, AAFES, Commissary and the Retirement Services Office will have presentations.

Additionally, representatives from various Federal and State agencies and Veterans organizations will have display tables on site to provide information on services available to veterans.

For further information, please contact Mr. Jose Luis Hernandez, Retirement Services Officer at 568-5204

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Media planning on covering this event must be at BIGGS Gate at 9am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

1st Armored Division, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade Activation Ceremony

FORT BLISS, Texas— The 1st Armored Division, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade will officially activate 13400 Staff Sgt. Sims St., Biggs Army Airfield, Fort Bliss within the 1st CAB's new hanger facilities, 10:3010 a.m., Sep. 20 (Tuesday).

This will mark the official reunion of the 1st Armored Division and their Combat Aviation Brigade, the 'Iron Eagles,' since their deactivation in Germany, July 2006.

The 1AD CAB is expected to have of more than 1,200 Soldiers previously assigned to the 4th CAB, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas after a year-long deployment to Afghanistan.

Col. Lonnie G. Hibbard, 1st CAB commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Rose Jr., 1st CAB, senior enlisted advisor with unfurl the 1st AD, 1st CAB, Brigade Colors during a the activation ceremony.

"We're proud to serve with a division as distinguished as the 1st Armored here at Ft. Bliss," said Hibbard. "We're privileged to have the most skilled and professional Soldiers and aviators in the Army who are all willing and ready to accomplish their mission."

Remarks will be made by ceremony host Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss commanding general.

RSVP no later than Sept 20th, 10 9:35 a.m. to Master Sgt. Kelly McCargo at 915-744-8492/915-781-3143 or Maj. Myles Caggins myles.caggins@us.army.mil 915-744-8498

Directions to Fort Bliss BIGGS Gate: From US-54 (Patriot Freeway) exit at Loop 601; Take Sergeant Major Blvd. and enter Fort Bliss.

Established in 1848, Fort Bliss is the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. Fort Bliss is undergoing the largest expansion of any military installation since World War II. Spread across 1.2 million acres in West Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss is home of the 1st Armored Division and 26,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Since 2001, over 200,000 servicemembers have deployed through Fort Bliss to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. https://www.bliss.army.mil

Fort Bliss Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/army.bliss

Fort Bliss to Observe POW/MIA Recognition Day

FORT BLISS, TEXAS-Team Bliss officials and Soldiers will commemorate comrades who are listed as prisoner of war or missing in action in a morning ceremony at 1st Armored Division, at 9 a.m., Friday, Sep. 16.

The guest speaker will be former Prisoner of War and Silver Star Medal recipient, retired Master Sgt. Roy Aldridge, U.S. Air Force.

During the Korean War, Aldridge's plane took heavy fire and his entire crew had to bail out over North Korea. He was the only survivor and was repatriated five months later - just a few days shy of his 19th birthday.

Team Bliss and Fort Bliss Soldiers are honored to hear him speak and the entire community is invited to attend the ceremony.

Theme for this year's event is: "The Cost of Freedom"

All area veterans, supporters of the military, family members and veterans' organizations are invited to attend and to bring their organizational colors. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

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Media planning on covering this event must be at GLOBAL REACH Gate at 830am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 744-8403 8492 or 8498. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

The Commander
German Air Force Air Defense Center
Colonel Volker Samanns
cordially invites the members of the local media
to attend this years octoberfest
German drinks and original food,
as well as the Octoberfestband
"The Eychachtaler"
and our famous
German Air Force Schuhplattler
This event will take place
September16th, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.
at Fort Bliss, Bldg 747
Please arrive 6:15 pm at Cassidy Gate Fort Bliss to be escorted.
This years Pre-Octoberfest will take place
September14th, 2011 at 6:00 p.m at the German Club, Bldg 5095
First Time this year the Octoberfestband
"The Eychachtaler" and our famous
German Air Force Schuhplattler
will celebrate with the soldiers of the Warrior Transition Bataillon to honor their service
September15th, 2011 from 12:00 pm to 02:00 pm, Bldg 807
For further information please call
German Air Force Air Defense Center
1Lt Volker Vogel
Phone: 915-568-3004
Cell: 915 – 307 - 1693
- Local Media interested in covering this event should contact the German Air Force PAO, Phone: 915 568-3126.
- Local Media will meet at 6:15 PM at Cassidy Gate and will be escorted to the event
- Please call and confirm your participation.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — Fort Bliss Soldiers, and all post units will conduct the Team Bliss Run starting at 630a.m., Friday, July 29.

The Commanding General, 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, Post Command Sgt. Maj. Dave Davenport and the installation staff, will lead the run. The run will start at Soto Physical Fitness Center, East Fort Bliss; proceed on Gulf Victory Road, right on Minue Drive, left on Eagle Road, left on Blackhawk Tank Trail, left on Gulf Victory Road and finish at the gym.

The run is approximately 2.5 miles and portions run route will be closed to vehicular traffic. Drivers should expect delays along the route and plan on alternate routes. The run is being conducted to promote Esprit De Corps, team building and discipline.

FORT BLISS, Texas —Nine Stryker Mobile Gun System (MGS) Crews from 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, will conduct live-fire weapons qualifications at Dona Ana Range, Fort Bliss, Tuesday, July 26, starting at 9:00 a.m.

During the week-long training, the Stryker Soldiers will use the Stryker Mobile Gun System (MGS) and the vehicle-mounted weapons systems: 105 mm cannon system, 7.62 mm machine gun and a secondary .50 Caliber Heavy Barrel machine gun.

The range training is a culmination of the Soldiers operational new equipment training (OPNET) which began January 2011, with General Dynamic, which encompasses vehicle maintenance, weapons systems integration, and understanding the numerous command, control, computer, communications, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (C4ISR) equipment.

Soldiers of 1/1 AD are the first and only Fort Bliss Soldiers to operate the Stryker.

Media members will not be allowed inside the Stryker during the live-fire, but will have an opportunity to get a close—but safe—vantage point.



If you would like to cover the event please contact SFC Gilberto Garza, at (956) 393-0894, Gilberto.j.garza3.mil@mail.mil or Spc. Jessica Luhrs-Stabile, at (559) 285-8029, (915) 744-4490 jessica.r.stabile.mil@mail.mil before 7 a.m., July 26.

Press Access: All media must be at the CONSTITUTION GATE by 7 am for a media vehicle convoy to Dona Ana Range's Base Camp (Bldg 8154) and subsequent unit escort to the live-fire range. Established in 1848, Fort Bliss is the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. Fort Bliss is undergoing the largest expansion of any military installation since World War II. Spread across 1.2 million acres in West Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss is home of most of the 1st Armored Division and 26,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Since 2001, over 200,000 servicemembers have deployed through Fort Bliss to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. http://www.bliss.army.mil 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/readyfirst The Stryker Family of Vehicles (p.298): http://www.bctmod.army.mil/news/pdf/USArmy%202011WSH.pdf The Stryker Mobile Gun System: http://www.dote.osd.mil/pub/reports/FY2010/pdf/army/2010strykermgs.pdf

Fort Bliss, Texas -- July 23, 64 basketball players and enthusiasts will lace up their shoes, steady their nerves and step on to Fort Bliss's Stout Gym outdoor courts in hopes of winning the Fort Bliss Red Bull King of the Rock qualifier. The Fort Bliss qualifier makes history by marking the first time a Red Bull King of the Rock qualifier will be held on a military base.

Red Bull King of the Rock was first held in 2010 on Alcatraz and marked the first time basketball had been played on the hard concrete of The Rock since the inmates left the island more than 50 years ago. The one-on-one basketball tournament is ready to tip off another round, having grown from six qualifiers on the west coast in 2010 to 56 qualifiers around the globe in 2011 (23 in the United States). The event's international reach is sure to make the competition this year tougher than ever. Respect will be earned and feelings will be hurt, but there can be only one King of the Rock.

The qualifiers and finals will incorporate a regular one-on-one basketball set-up where players go head-to-head on an outdoor court using a single elimination tournament bracket. There are only two options: win and continue on, or lose and go home. Games will last five minutes and be subject to regulation hoops rules and scoring (two and three pointers). Winners must immediately hop to the next court to face another player, so while pure hoops ability is essential, strategy and endurance will also play a major role in overall victory. Qualifiers will contain four intense half-court games going on simultaneously, until all eyes are on the final game. Players have to be tough to make it to The Rock, but must also play smart – five fouls equals an automatic loss.

Registration for the Fort Bliss Red Bull King of the Rock is limited to 64 active duty soldiers and is first come-first serve. Registration is available now at Soto Physical Fitness Center.

Red Bull will team up with 24 Hour Fitness, Skull Candy, Dime Magazine and Reebok for this historic event.

For all media inquiries including team interviews, event history and past photos, visit www.redbullusa.com/kingoftherock or contact Mike Taylor at (505) 400-2756 or mike.taylor@us.redbull.com.

Through the Red Bull network, hi-res video and still images are captured and made immediately available for editorial use for all media channels including television, film, print, mobile, and digital. The content is centrally located in the Red Bull Content Pool for media partners at www.redbullcontentpool.com.

Twitter: #rbkotr

### About Stout Gym: Stout Gym and Outdoor Courts at Fort Bliss pay homage to Sgt. Stout, who distinguished himself during an attack by a North Vietnamese Army Sapper company on his unit's firing position at Khe Gio Bridge. Sgt. Stout was in a bunker with members of a searchlight crew when the position came under heavy enemy mortar fire and ground attack. When the intensity of the mortar attack subsided, an enemy grenade was thrown into the bunker. Displaying great courage, Sgt. Stout ran to the grenade, picked it up, and started out of the bunker. As he reached the door, the grenade exploded. By holding the grenade close to his body and shielding its blast, he protected his fellow soldiers in the bunker from further injury or death. Sgt. Stout's conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action, at the cost of his own life, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon him, his unit and the U.S. Army.

FORT BLISS, TEXAS— Team Bliss Officials and Fort Bliss Soldiers, in commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, will conduct a 50-gun Salute to the Union Ceremony at 9 a.m., Thursday, June 30, 2011. The event will take place at Fort Bliss' Memorial Circle (near Pershing Gate)

The 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division will provide the Color Guard and the salute battery, consisting of five, 75-millimeter-pack howitzers. The "pack 75's" will fire a 50-gun salute during the ceremony and flag bearers will present the flags of the 50-United States.

The post Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, will host the Salute to the Union. Additionally, installation officials, unit commanders and local dignitaries are expected to attend.

The 1st Armored Division Band will play throughout the Salute to the Union. All area residents, veterans, veteran's organizations, military retirees, family members and general public are invited to Fort Bliss to see this patriotic, spectacular and colorful event. This event is FREE and open the public.

Media planning on covering this event must be at PERSHING Gate at 830am for escort to the site. Coordinate media coverage at 568-4320 or 568-4601. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

The Defense Commissary Agency will open a new commissary at Fort Bliss, Texas, June 29, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m.

DeCA has a six-day celebration planned to delight all members of the family, and the events and shopping will kick off immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event will feature spectacular savings as commissary vendors have stepped up to offer hundreds of promotional prices. The six-day event will be marked with food sampling, drawings for prizes and other festivities. Commissary vendors will give away several televisions, a washer and dryer set, a motorcycle, an SUV and hundreds of smaller prizes to customers. On grand opening day and June 30 there will also be a soccer kick, a football toss, two race car simulators, a super slide, a clown and face painting for children.

"We're excited to offer the commissary savings benefit to the growing military community at Fort Bliss in DeCA's newest store," said Joseph H. Jeu, DeCA Director and CEO. "Every inch of this store was designed to make shopping an enjoyable and comfortable experience."

The store is located at 1620 Marshall Road, on the south end of Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss, a first-of-its-kind shopping, dining and entertainment marketplace located on a U.S. military installation. The mall opened in November 2010 with an Army and Air Force Exchange Service main store, food court, theater and other retail shops. The addition of the commissary, anchoring one side of the mall, will make retail shopping more convenient on Fort Bliss.

With the grand opening just a month away, workers are completing installation of product shelving and the store staff is busy ordering and receiving merchandise to fill the shelves. "The store is simply beautiful inside, and the modern shelving and refrigeration cases will allow us to pack in a wider variety of products than we've been able to fit in the current store," said Store Director Mike Mena. "We will be able to offer our customers even more of the quality products they've come to expect."

By commissary standards, the new Fort Bliss Commissary is a large store — one of the 10 largest in DeCA's 249-store inventory. Features of the new store include more than 60,000 square feet of sales area; 28 checkouts, eight of which are self-checkouts; full-service meat and produce departments; an international deli and bakery; an olive bar; hot foods; a fresh fish market; sushi-to-go and rotisserie chicken.

DeCA has included some of the latest environmental and energy efficiency innovations into the store design, and some of them don't even require an engineering degree to understand, said Mena. The ceiling has large skylights to allow in natural light and automatic lighting controls. A heat-reflective roof will further reduce the commissary's energy needs in the hot Texas climate.

Construction on the $20.3 million commissary began in August 2009, on a contract awarded to Ledcor Construction, Inc., based in San Diego, Calif. Construction was funded with Department of Defense Base Realignment and Closure funds.

Mena said that when the new store opens, the commissary hours will change to better meet the requests of shoppers and to align with operating hours of the mall. The hours will be Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The current store, which has operated since 1981, will close at 9 p.m. June 27. Workers will use June 28 to shift the commissary operation to the new store, Mena said. The Fort Bliss Garrison will take possession of the old commissary building when DeCA moves into the new store, and it is considering several reuse options for the facility, according to John Kirby, deputy director of the Fort Bliss Garrison Plans and Training Directorate.

Cutline: A large, colorful sign on the almost-ready-to-open commissary at 1620 Marshall Road, on the south end of Freedom Crossing shopping center at Fort Bliss, Texas, leaves no doubt as to what's inside. The Defense Commissary Agency plans to open the store June 29.

FORT BLISS, TX—The U.S. Army Operational Test Command will activate a new test directorate at Fort Bliss to plan and execute tests, assessments and experiments in support of network integration and other priority Army systems.

Col. Dave Wellons, former commander of OTC's Fires Test Directorate (FTD) at Fort Sill, OK, has been selected to command the new Integrated Test and Evaluation Directorate (ITED) at Fort Bliss. The activation ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. June 17 at the Fort Bliss and Old Ironsides Museum, Bldg. 1375, Marshall Road.

According to Brig. Gen. Don MacWillie, OTC commanding general, ITED will be a balanced mix of active duty and Department of the Army civilian testers.

"The establishment of this new test directorate supports the Army's mission to develop, test and evaluate the Army network for complete synchronization of network assets," he said. "We are responding to the Vice Chief of Staff's (Gen. Peter Chiarelli) direction to facilitate testing and development of network integration at a common location and time, specifically, the Fort Bliss and White Sands Missile Range region."

Sixty-three authorized positions (27 military and 36 DA civilian employees) will comprise the ITED using organic Table of Distribution and Allowances (TDA) authorizations and existing facilities, according to Wellons.

"A roughly balanced mix of testers with Army network background and Brigade Combat Team (BCT) modernization skill sets, the ITED will subsume OTC and Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) personnel and capabilities at Fort Bliss into a cohesive test and assessment organization," Wellons said.

The Human Resource Command (HRC) and the Civilian Personnel Activity Center (CPAC) at Fort Bliss is working with OTC to fill both military and civilian positions, he said.

OTC facilities at Fort Bliss currently occupied by FTD's Missile Test Division are adequate to sustain personnel and equipment for the new directorate, Wellons said.

"OTC will take the lead for ATEC in coordinating the Vice Chief of Staff's vision for network integration with other Army stakeholders," MacWillie said.

Other Army players, MacWillie said, include the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology Program Executive Office for Integration, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Army Materiel Command (AMC), and the Army's Deputy Chief of Staff G-6.

OTC headquarters, a subordinate command of ATEC, is located at Fort Hood, TX, along with four test directorates: Aviation, Maneuver Support and Sustainment, Maneuver, and Mission Command. In addition to ITED and FTD, other forward test directorates include Intelligence and Electronic Warfare, Fort Huachuca, AZ, and Airborne and Special Operations, Fort Bragg, NC.

News Release

Release No: DJ-11-076

Contact: Dieter JESTER

For Release: Jun 9, 2011

Phone: (915) 568-4320/4601

FORT BLISS, TEXAS - Fort Bliss Museum officials will host the PBS program "Antiques Roadshow" Friday, June 17 for a production shoot at the Old Fort Bliss "replica" Museum.

While on location at the post, show host Mark Walberg and appraiser Chris Mitchell will discuss how the innovative "Mississippi" rifle dramatically changed the odds in the Mexican-American War and the current market for the weapon.

For the first time ever El Paso is one of six stops for the Antiques Road Show and is scheduled for the Judson F. Williams Convention Center downtown, Saturday, June 18.

Antiques Roadshow will produce three episodes from the El Paso stop. These programs are expected to air on KCOS between January and June 2012.

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Editors: Walberg and Mitchell will be available for interviews while at Old Fort Bliss. (best time is between 10am-1230pm) Interested media should contact Judy Matthews or John Jordan below FIRST; then PAO. Media planning on covering this event must contact PAO for escort to the site. Coordinate media escort at 568-4320 or 568-4601. Call and confirm your participation / attendance.

For interviews contact:

Judy Matthews

WGBH Boston

(w) 617-300-5343

(c) 617-515-2521

June 2, 2011

Graduates from Class 61 of the Sergeants Major Course invite you to the first ever cap and gown ceremony at the Sergeants Major Academy on June 15, 2011 @ 6PM. The ceremony takes place at the academy's East Auditorium and guest speaker for the ceremony is the Honorable M. Sue Kurita, presiding judge of the County Court at Law Number Six of El Paso County, Texas.

RSVP to the Director, USASMA Public Affairs, Ms. Mikie Perkins, NLT 1500, June 10, 2011. Michaellyn.Perkins@us.army.mil

(920) 216-8884 (Cell)

(915) 744-2952

FORT BLISS, TEXAS — The 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, "Ready First" 1st Armored Division, is scheduled to hold a Brigade Change of Command Ceremony, June 13 at 10:00 a.m. on the Ready First Parade Field across from building 20100 on East Fort Bliss.

Colonel Larry Swift, will be relinquish command to Col. Kenneth P. Adgie, a native of National Park, N.J., the former 1AD, division operations officer (G-3).

Swift is an Infantry officer from Sackets Harbor, N.Y., with more than 20 years of service.

Swift has commanded the brigade since June of 2009. During his time with "Ready First" he led his Soldiers through a successful National Training Center rotation at Fort Irwin, Calif., followed by a year-long deployment to Kirkuk, Iraq.

Immediately after returning from Iraq, Swift oversaw the unit's "Heavy Brigade Combat Team" conversion to a Stryker-equipped brigade.

Swift is scheduled to attend the U.S. Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, Pa. Adgie, a 1988 Distinguished Military Graduate of Louisiana State University, was commissioned an Infantryman. Adgie graduated from the U.S. Army War College in 2010.

Adgie deployed in support of: Operation Joint Guardian, Kosovo, and Operation Iraqi Freedom on two occasions.

The brigade will train on Stryker gunnery and prepare for future deployments over the next year.

If you would like to cover any portion of the event please contact Sgt. 1st Class Gilberto "Gil" Garza, 1st SBCT, 1st AD Public Affairs OIC, at 915-744-4490, Cell: 956-393-0894.

Press Access: All media must be at the BIGGS GATE at June 13, 9 am, where they will be escorted to READY FIRST PARADE FIELD for pre-set. The Change of Command will begin at approximately 10 a.m. Directions to Fort Bliss Biggs Gate: From Spur 601 exit at Sergeants Major Blvd.

Established in 1848, Fort Bliss is the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. Fort Bliss is undergoing the largest expansion of any military installation since World War II. Spread across 1.2 million acres in West Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss is home of most of the 1st Armored Division and 26,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines. Since 2001, over 200,000 servicemembers have deployed through Fort Bliss to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. http://www.bliss.army.mil

Fort Bliss "Ready First" Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ReadyFirst