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July 31, 201934

Contents
July 31, 2019, Vol. 68, No. 7

TO THE FIELD
10

34

10

Aviation Branch Chief Update
By MG David J. Francis

12

Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch Update
By CW5 Jonathon P. Koziol

14

Branch Command Sergeant Major Update
By CSM Brian N. Hauke

18

Combat Readiness Center Update
By COL Jason L. Miller

20

Reserve Component Aviation Update
By COL Andrew D. Cecil

22

128th Aviation Brigade Update
By SFC Matthew Harris

24

AMRDEC Tech Talk
By Mr. Daniel McClintock

26

Ask the Flight Surgeon
By CPT Frank Stafford, D.O.

SPECIAL FOCUS — Simulation & Training
28

Doctrine Update
By COL George G. Ferido and COL Jimmy L. Meacham, U.S.
Army Retired

30

Common Challenges and Means to Mitigate Them
By LTC Eric Megerdoomian and numerous DES SMEs

34

Building Aviation Readiness & Lethality at the National 		
Training Center
By LTC Clint Cody, LTC Peter Schmitt, and LTC Cameron
Gallagher

36

Focusing on the Deep Fight to Build Lethality: A JMRC
Perspective
By MAJ Troy Gillett and MAJ Durward Johnson

38

Reflections on a Year in Atropia – Good, Bad, and Ugly
By LTC Jason Davis

36

38

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

3

July 31, 201942

Contents
July 31, 2019, Vol. 68, No. 7

46 40

SPECIAL FOCUS
40

The Simulator Instructor Operator: Setting Conditions for 		SuccessBy CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton

42

Field of (Simulated) Dreams
By CW5 Michael J. Hangge

FEATURE
48

44

Army Aviation in Army Futures Command
By COL Michael J. Best and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi

46

Aviation Systems Reorganizes
By COL Johnathan Frasier and Ms. JoAnna Wright

DEPARTMENTS

51

52

AAAA NEWSAAAA President’s Cockpit........................................................................................................8
AAAA VP Chapter Affairs.......................................................................................................50
Chapter News..........................................................................................................................51
AAAA VP Membership...........................................................................................................52
New Members.......................................................................................................................53
AAAA Family Forum.................................................................................................................56
AAAA Legislative Report........................................................................................................54
AAAA Scholarship Foundation............................................................................................ 57
ARMY AVIATION COMMUNITY NEWS
Advertisers Index.......................................................................................................................61
Art’s Attic.......................................................................................................................................62
Briefings...........................................................................................................................................6
Calendar.......................................................................................................................................53
Enlisted Soldier Spotlight........................................................................................................16
Hall of Fame.................................................................................................................................63
Historical Perspective.............................................................................................................48
Industry News..............................................................................................................................61
People on the Move................................................................................................................58

ARMY AVIATION is the official journal of the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA). The views expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors, not the Department of Defense or
its elements. The content does not necessarily reflect the official U.S. Army position nor the position of the AAAA or the staff of Army Aviation Publications, Inc., (AAPI). Title Reg® in U.S. Patent office.
Registration Number 1,533,053. SUBSCRIPTION DATA: ARMY AVIATION (ISSN 0004-248X) is published monthly, except May and September by AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.
Tel: (203) 268-2450, FAX: (203) 268-5870, E-Mail: aaaa@quad-a.org. Army Aviation Magazine E-Mail: magazine@quad-a.org. Website: http://www.quad-a.org. Subscription rates for non-AAAA
members: $30, one year; $58, two years; add $10 per year for foreign addresses other than military APOs. Single copy price: $4.00. ADVERTISING: Display and classified advertising rates are listed in
SRDS Business Publications, Classification 90. POSTMASTER: Periodicals postage paid at Monroe, CT and other offices. Send address changes to AAPI, 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

4

July 31, 2019

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5

Briefings u
Publisher / William R. Harris Jr.

Director of Design & Production
Anne H. Ewing
magazine@quad-a.org
Web Edition / Trudy Hodenfieldtrudy@quad-a.org
Contributing Editor / Mark Albertson
mark@quad-a.org
Family Forum Editor / Judy Konitzer
judy@quad-a.org

U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY CPT ADAN CAZAREZ

Associate Editor / CW5 Adam Jarvis
adam@quad-a.org

DOD PHOTO BY LISA FERDINANDO

Editor / CW4 (Ret.) Joseph L. Pisano Sr.
editor@quad-a.org

Advertising Director / Robert C. Lachowski
bob@quad-a.org
Advertising Manager / Erika Burgess
erika@quad-a.org

Late Breaking News - Announcements

POTUS Taps Esper as
Acting SECDEF/McCarthy
as Acting SECARMY
President Donald Trump announced that Secretary of
the Army Mark T. Esper (left)
would take over as Acting
Secretary of Defense andUnder Secretary of the Army
Ryan McCarthy would become Acting Secretary of the
Army on June 24th. Esper
is backfilling the void left by
Acting Secretary of Defense
Patrick Shanahan’s withdrawal of his nomination for
the top Pentagon post. President Trump subsequently
announced his intent to nominate Esper for
secretary of defense, and McCarthy as secretary of the Army. McCarthy had served for fourmonths in 2017 as the acting Army secretary.

Edward Daly, deputy commanding generalof the U.S. Army Materiel Command, duringa June 10 assumption of command ceremony at Bob Jones Auditorium, Redstone
Arsenal, AL. AMCOM Executive Director, Mr.
William Marriott, and senior enlisted leader,
CSM Mike Dove participated. A career Army
Aviator, this is Royar’s second time being
assigned to AMCOM. He previously served
as the AMCOM Chief of Staff from 2015 to2017. He returns to AMCOM from his mostrecent assignment with the 101st Airborne
Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, KY,
where he served as the deputy commanding
general for support.
Koziol New CWOBFrancis Takes OverUSAACE
U.S. ARMY PHOTO

Marketing Director / Jennifer Chittem
jenn@quad-a.org

Circulation Department
Deb Cavallaro
Debbie Coley
Elisabeth Mansson
Sue Stokes

U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY KELLY MORRISVP Business Development / Sal D. Luccisal@quad-a.org

MG David J. Francis accepts the U.S. Army
Aviation Center of Excellence colors fromLTG Michael D. Lundy, U.S. Army Combined
Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth commanding general, as he assumes commandof USAACE and Fort Rucker from MG William
K. Gayler (back to camera) during a changeof command ceremony on Howze Field, Ft.
Rucker, AL on June 17, 2019. Francis comesto Ft. Rucker from his most recent assignment as the director of Army Aviation at thePentagon. Gayler heads to Europe and his
next assignment as the J-3 Operations/
Cyber, U.S. Africa Command.

Web Master / Mary Seymour
mary@quad-a.org
Editorial Address
593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806
Tel: (203) 268-2450 / Fax: (203) 268-5870

ARMYAVIATIONmagazine.com

On The Cover
PAID ADVERTISEMENT:

Caption provided by the advertiser.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Grinston Next SMA

U.S. ARMY PHOTO

AMCOM Welcomes Royar

U.S. ARMY PHOTO

CAE is the global leader in training and
now trains more than 135,000 pilots eachyear. One of the company-owned training
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Visit www.caeusa.com for information.

CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol receives the charteras the eighth Chief Warrant Officer of theAviation Branch from MG William K. Gayler,
then-commanding general of the U.S. Army
Aviation Center of Excellence and the Army
Aviation Branch Chief at Ft. Rucker, AL on
May 3, 2019. Koziol comes to Ft. Rucker
from the office of the Director of Army Aviation at the Pentagon and replaces CW5 Joe
Roland who departed for West Point, NY
where he took command of the 2nd Avn.
Det. at the U.S. Military Academy.

BG(P) K. Todd Royar (left) receives the Aviation and Missile Command colors from LTG
6

CSM Michael A. Grinston (shown here taking a selfie with Soldiers from the 1st Combat Aviation Brigade) will be sworn in at thePentagon as the 16th sergeant major of the
Army on August 16, 2019. The combat veteran comes to the position from being thesenior enlisted leader for U.S. Army Forces
Command and succeeds SMA Daniel Dailey.
July 31, 2019

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u President’s Cockpit

Navigating the Winds of ChangeSummer is often a time of change
in our Army, as families move andSoldiers report to new positions andnew duty stations. Our Army Aviation
leadership is no exception.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ

MG Dave Francis assumed command of the Army Aviation
Center of Excellence at Fort Rucker on 17 June. Dave is no
stranger to Fort Rucker, having served as the commanding
general of the Combat Readiness Center and before that asdeputy commander at Fort Rucker. We welcome him and hiswife Jodie back!
In Huntsville, MG Todd Royar assumed command of
AMCOM on 10 June after serving as the 101st Airborne
Division (Air Assault) DCG-Support. Todd previously
served at AMCOM as the chief of staff. Again, we welcome
Todd and his wife Mary Lou back to Huntsville.
Another key member of the Army Aviation leadership,
BG “Mac” Mike McCurry took over as the director, Army
Aviation in the Army G3/5/7 office as the backfill to MG
Francis on 17 June. Mac is very familiar with the Pentagon,
where he served as chief, DAMO-FDV prior to becoming
DCG at 2ID, ROK. It will be great for Army Aviation tohave Mac back in the Pentagon!
There is also a flurry of movements in the most seniorcivilian positions of the Pentagon as nominations for Secretaryof Defense and Secretary of the Army are solidified for the
Honorable Mark Esper and the Honorable Ryan McCarthy,
respectively. Both are strong supporters of Army Aviation,
and we wish them our best in their new positions.
In Washington, the budget has taken on critical importanceas our elected officials seek to balance our defense needs withdomestic requirements, and as they also seek to support Armyreadiness efforts while seeking to make investments in themodernization of our force. Kevin Cochie’s article in thisissue on page 54 gives great insights into how this processunfolds in our nation’s capital.
As Army Aviation continues to build readiness withour current fleets and Soldiers, our leaders are also seeking
to invest in the future through Future Vertical Lift (FVL)
programs. Our focus this month, Training and Simulation, isincredibly important to both our current fleets and readinessand our future, and so I draw your attention to MG DaveFrancis’ To the Field article on page 10.
Our chapters continue to do their role to support Army
Aviation, our soldiers and their families. In June, our National
Senior Vice President and former PEO Aviation, MG Tim
Crosby and I attended a superb dinner meeting with the North
Texas Chapter, hosted by Chapter President Steve Mathias.
The guest of honor was the Army’s current PEO-Aviation,

AAAA National President, MG (Ret.) Jeff Schloesser talks with incoming
commanding general of U.S. Army North/5th United States Army,
LTG Laura Richardson, while at the 2019 Summit in Nashville, TN.

MG Thomas Todd, who gave a heartfelt and substantive
update on everything his team of teams is doing to maintainour current “top of the line” helicopter fleets while setting thestage for FVL. It was a great night, and we sincerely thankGeneral Todd for taking the time out of an incredibly busy
schedule to be with us.
Within the National Executive Board, we are finalizing
nominations for Emeritus status as well as adding board
members to the National Members at Large team. Al
Roberson and Bill Morris have graciously accepted ourrequest to join the board. We are also very pleased to welcome
SGT Ashley M. Sanchez to the National Executive Board
as a representative of our junior enlisted Soldiers. We arein the process of identifying and bringing on to the board a
junior warrant officer and a 1st lieutenant/captain to makesure those cohorts have a voice and direct input to AAAA
leadership as well.
As a reminder, we have the Luther G. Jones Army
Aviation Depot Forum in Corpus Christi, 20-21 August; our
AAAA National Executive Board semi-annual meeting inWashington, DC, 13 October; and in Huntsville, our Aircraft
Survivability Symposium, 18-19 November, followed by the
Joseph P. Cribbins Army Aviation Product Sustainment
Symposium on 20-21 Nov. It is a significant year of bothchange and continuity within Army Aviation, and I encourage
you to get involved and stay engaged!
MG Jeff Schloesser, U.S. Army, Retired
34th President, AAAA
jeff.schloesser@quad-a.org
8

July 31, 2019

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

9

July 31, 2019u Aviation Branch Chief Update

Simulations
to Enhance
Aviation Training
Capabilities
By MG David J. Francis

I

U.S. ARMY COURTESY PHOTO

t is an honor for Jodie and me to sign
on as your 17th Chief of the Aviation
Branch. Our sincere gratitude to MG Billand Michelle Gayler for their steadfast
leadership of the branch over the last
three years. MG Gayler set us on a pathto maintain Aviation as an asymmetricadvantage for our nation, and todevelop and field leap-ahead capability
in the future.
His pursuit of training the best Aviators in the world endures
and is highlighted in this article featuring Aviator Training
Next. Our best wishes to the Gaylers in their next assignment,
and it is our honor to serve beside the outstanding Soldiers,
DACs, and leaders of this branch.
As the Army recalibrates and reorients for Large Scale
Combat Operations (LSCO), the way commanders will train
must continue to adapt. This training evolution will impact
both individual and collective training while leveraging thelatest technology tools. The U.S. Army Aviation Center of
Excellence (USAACE) Directorate of Simulation (DOS)continues to spearhead this transition into the future with
two key initiatives: Aviator Training Next (ATN) and theSynthetic Training Environment (STE) programs. The
implementation of these programs could fundamentallytransform the way we train aviators during the Initial
Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) course and provide aviationcommanders more effective means for conducting collective
training in a synthetic training environment at homestation. ATN will test new approaches to train Aviators byintroducing innovative commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS)
technologies that have already matured to a level that canreadily support Army training requirements. This, coupled
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

COL John Ferrell (center) briefs (left to right) Mr. Tim Bishop, Deputy PEO
STRI; MG Maria Gervais, STE CFT Director; and MG William Gayler,
then-USAACE CG on the Aviator Training Next (ATN) Program while CPT
Marisa Lock performs traffic patterns in a VR Black Hawk on June 4, 2019
at Ft. Rucker, AL.

with a better understanding of cognitive science, has potential
to considerably improve student learning. Augmented andvirtual reality capabilities will be key drivers for synthetic
training in the future and USAACE will work to stay on
the leading edge. ATN, which focuses on individual training,combined with the STE, will fundamentally transform theway we train to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
Aviator Training Next (ATN)
Beginning in July of 2019, USAACE will execute a seriesof IERW test programs at Fort Rucker, AL to assess theeffectiveness of virtual reality (VR) flight training capabilities.
USAACE intends to maximize modern technologies andadvances in cognitive science to improve how we train
pilots. The ATN concept is modeled on the Air Force’s Pilot
10

July 31, 2019

Training Next (PTN) program and seeks to produce more
proficient students by reinforcing basic pilot flight maneuvertasks. The program increases frequency and repetition throughintegration of additional VR training into the current programof instruction (POI) by using a training system consisting ofa low-cost COTS virtual trainer and flight software, artificial
intelligence/intelligent tutoring and cognitive measurement.
In addition to scheduled POI training periods, students
will have access to these training devices after hours and on
weekends to practice more frequently.
The focus of the ATN program is within the Basic Army
Aviator Course (BAAC) portion of IERW. Each pilot class will
be divided into a control group and two test groups in order todetermine the right mix of live / VR / simulation that results inincreased proficiency in base tasks. The use of VR is introduced
during ground school through the end of primary training andstudent progress will be measured through multiple live-flightcheck rides to capture analytics of proficiency, comprehension,and overall flight skill development as compared to thecontrol group. The tasks being taught on the flight line will
be reinforced with the VR systems which will allow students
to practice maneuvers and be measured against the maneuver
standard while being coached by an intelligent tutoring systemthat will measure the student’s performance and provide realtime and post maneuver feedback. The concept proposes thatby gaining a higher level of proficiency in VR and simulation,
instructors can maximize each live flight hour and focus on
more warfighter skill development during later phases of
IERW. This enhancement to the training of individual tasks
will lay the foundation for a successful collective training
environment as well.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Synthetic Training Environment
The Synthetic Training Environment (STE) capability
will support Army collective training in a multi-domain
battlefield. The STE will address the challenges of multidomain training by providing a scalable environment (live,
virtual, constructive, and gaming) of common characteristics
that use common standards, architecture, terrain andauthoritative data. The STE will provide the Army a usable,
realistic, and complex training environment that improves
readiness through increased repetition to achieve mastery of
warfighting skills.
For Army Aviation, the STE will provide emerging
technologies like mixed reality visual displays and artificial
intelligence (AI) to expand and enhance training efforts.
The envisioned end state will incorporate actual aircraft
operational flight program (OFP) into the synthetic
environment and will reach concurrency with fielded aircraftwithin 90 days. Additionally, the STE will be able to import
Aviation Mission Planning capabilities in conjunction with
the STE’s tools to preview, control, and assess training. To
enable better training flexibility and to meet the commander’sneeds, the STE trainer will be modular to the extent thatit can be brought to various locations to support uniquetraining or mission requirements, whether at the hangar, in aclassroom or at a deployed location.
Above the Best!
MG David J. Francis is the Army Aviation branch chief andcommander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence andFort Rucker, AL.

11

July 31, 2019u Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch

The Next Step in Simulation

U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY GEORGIOS MOUMOULIDISBy CW5 Jonathon P. Koziol

F

irst, I am honored to be selected as the next
Command Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch.
I understand the importance of the position and myresponsibilities to represent our aviation warrant
officers, but more importantly, the aviation branch.

Army Aviators assigned to B/1-214th Aviation
conduct annual CH-47 Flight Simulator training
at the flight simulator in Illesheim, Germany.

I will continue to work hard on
initiatives that will better manage andbenefit our aviation warrant officers.
I will embrace the opportunity I havebeen given and work hard for ouraviation warfighters. There are multiple
efforts moving forward and I am
excited to move them over the goal line.
At my previous position at the Pentagon, I witnessed the day-to-day hard
work our Aviation Enterprise is doingin modernization, policies and doctrinethat will continue to improve on an already lethal aviation warfighting force.

Tech Innovations
We are on the brink of technicalinnovations that will reshape theway we train our future warfighting
forces. Advancements in virtual reality(VR), artificial intelligence (AI) andadvanced biometrics will aid us intraining Soldiers more efficiently,
which will optimize production at theschoolhouse.
As with anything in life, “practicemakes perfect.” In whatever profession
we work in, frequency and repetition attasks make you better. Unfortunately for

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Of course, this all starts right here
at Fort Rucker with our flight training
program. To ensure we continue to
produce the best aviation Soldiersin the world, the Branch must be
funded to 100% of our training
requirements. In the past several years,
due to budget constraints, we havenot always produced the number ofaviators required annually; the bottom
line is cost. We must continue to findsolutions to produce a better aviatorat the best value and advancements insimulation is one of many solutions.

12

July 31, 2019

our aviators, especially flight students,
the ability to just jump into a simulator
or actual aircraft to practice is not always
practical. Army aviation training is
expensive. Especially, if we have to focus
training in actual aircraft. Even thoughsimulation devices are limited in number
due to the cost being in the upwardsof millions of dollars, they give us theability to offset costs of maintaining
proficiency in our fighting force.
Now, imagine there are companies
out there who could produce new VR
training devices and significantly drive
down costs. Add in AI, who will be thevirtual instructor capable of instructing a student with immediate feedback. Biometrics can tell if the aviation
student is looking at the proper instruments or manipulating the controls
properly and measuring the cognitive
load of the student. Understanding
when the student is task saturated or if
it appears the procedures are too easy.
The ability to adjust training immediately for the individual will allow us toharness proficiency-based training tostandard instead of time.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

VenuesAs the technology improves anddrives down costs, it will give us theability to have greater access to training
devices in the classroom, at work, andpossibly at home. Classroom trainers
for each student and multiple training
devices at places like the technical library will allow the students to practiceand hone their skills. It was not too long
ago it was a huge step to transition to a
fully digital classroom and issue computers to each flight student. Looking
forward, one day we can issue VR devices that are part of the flight students
training aides. The frequency and repetition afforded our students combinedwith the immediate instruction will allow us to gain efficiencies at the beginning of flight school and possibly withother aviation courses. This innovative
training will allow us to reinvest training dollars into our advanced aircraft
training and tactics.
With that being said, there is no
replacement for the real thing. What
VR and AI can do is allow us to
optimize the training dollars while still13

producing a better Warfighter.
Change is coming. Let us all embrace
this change and help to work towards
the future. Think outside the box and
not in the aspect of “that’s how we havealways done it” mentality. What I ask ofyou, the Warfighter, is this: Although
the technical advancements we areworking on here in flight school andwhat you work with in your aircraft areleading edge, we must remember thebasics. Simple things such as readinga map and terrain recognition are thebuilding blocks for the tactics we will
use to counter our adversaries. Take
advantage of the Aviation Warfighting
Initiatives and exportable training
packets that have been produced. Neverquit on bettering yourself.
I look forward to working with all of
you to better our Branch.
Above the Best!
CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol is the chief
warrant officer of the Aviation Branchwith the U.S. Army Aviation Center of
Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.

July 31, 2019u Branch Command Sergeant Major

By CSM Brian N. Hauke

PERSONAL PHOTO FROM CSM HAUKEBalanceTo be 100% transparent with everyone, I am going
to date myself with the following quote regarding“balance.” For this article, I wanted to share some of
my thoughts on “balance” from the movie, The Karate
Kid (1984) – yes, over 35 years ago.

The author and his wife finding the balancewith his 14' V8 powered airboat which hestarted in December 2018 and completed in
March/April 2019.

For those who are not familiar withthe movie, there is a discussion overthe course of the movie between Mr.
Miyagi, “the karate master,” and Daniel,“the bullied teenager,” on havingbalance. The famous quote from Mr.
Miyagi to Daniel, “Better learn balance.
Balance is key. Balance good, karate
good. Everything good. Balance bad.
Better pack up, go home. Understand?”Wow! I don’t think it can get muchclearer than that! Bottom Line Up
Front – You must have balance!
Leaders, our Army asks so muchfrom everyone, both Soldiers and fami-

grind. It’s an opportunity to enjoy yourcurrent project, hang out with family or
friends, listen to some tunes, and enjoy arefreshment or two. Okay, maybe three!
It doesn’t matter if your “escape”
is into the shop, woods, lake, river,golf course, range, gym, volunteering,
scouts, coaching, camping, movies,
flying, motorcycles, yard work, and thelist could go on and on. Whatever yourchoice may be, the key to balance, isto get out there, get moving forward,
and enjoy your time. Your “escape” canbe a de-stressor. It sounds funny but
slowing down to work on your thing

ARMY AVIATION Magazinelies. I would share the most importantpart of Mr. Miyagi’s philosophy, “Balance is key. Balance good, everything
good!” If you’re like me, you enjoy heading out to the garage, the driveway, theshady tree, or the shop for some wrenchtime. Whether you’re in the middle ofa full-blown restoration or just a simple
oil change on your daily driver. Gettingout to the shop is great for more thanjust the obvious reason of finishing a
project. Wrenching, sanding, grinding,cleaning, and fixing is therapeutic to themind, body and soul. To me, the shop
is a great place to escape from the daily
14

July 31, 2019

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

15

July 31, 2019

Enlisted Aviation Soldier Spotlight u
Each month we will feature a past AAAA National or Functional Enlisted or NCO Awardwinner as part of our ongoing recognition of the Best of the Best in our Aviation Branch. The
CY 2018 National winners were featured in the April/May AAAA Annual Summit issue.

SFC Eric D. WrightCompany B, Special Operations Training Battalion
Fort Campbell, Kentucky

James H. McClellan Aviation
Safety Award, 2014
SFC Eric Wright performed outstandingly and withunwavering commitment as the Bravo Company,
Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion’s(SOATB) safety NCO and officer. This company is themost diversified within the Special Operation Aviation community. It is equipped with32 helicopters of three different airframes. With the number of active duty personnel
only the size of a platoon, in order to effectively execute the company’s mission
in the safest manner possible it takes a dedicated group of aviation professionals
operating within a world class safety program; a safety program setup and run toperfection by SFC Wright. While serving as both the company safety NCO and officer,
his accomplishments included: 10 site surveys for the unit’s offsite training areas,
completion of the Laser Safety Officer’s certification, the safe execution of 10,000
flying hour program, two commendable ratings on separate inspections, and thetraining of all civilians, contractors, and active duty Soldiers in the pre-accident plan.
SFC Wright’s commitment and dedication to the organization and its safety programis unwavering and clearly identify him as the winner of the 2014 Army Aviation
Association of America James H. McClellan Aviation Safety Award.

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can help provide balance. Who would
have thought?
You’ve heard me talk about our
Branch and why the Soldiers make it sogreat. Indispensable relationships andlasting memories are built among thesepeople of our branch. Take a step backand think about how many friends you
have made from your passion or hobby.
Today’s Army is moving fasterthan the aircraft we fly and maintain.
Budgeting time to be in the shopand hanging with your family andfriends accomplishes more than justprogressing on your build or theirs. You
foster a sense of accomplishment, selfpride, and probably the most important
thing, making memories.
When your “car buds, golf buds,
motorcycle buds, or hunting buds, etc.”
get into the mix, you become part of afraternity. Developing a special feeling ofcamaraderie when you work on a project
together. Pushing one another to meet adeadline, make a show, or just make itpossible to cruise your ride is the whole
point. Another bonus and possibly thebest reason is the opportunity for somequality family time. When you haveteenage kids, it can be hard to find acommon topic or subject, but “shoptime” can help bridge some of thosegaps. Seeing your son, daughter or yourbetter half get excited about working
on a project is a remarkable feeling. As
you look back, I’m sure there are manyfamily memories you’ve made as you
share your passion/hobby with yourchildren and your spouse.
So, grab a friend, child, dad, mom,or spouse and start that project you’vebeen thinking about. I urge you to get
out there, whether it be in the woods oron the golf course. Set a deadline/goal,change the deadline, and then change it
again! The key is to have fun and enjoy the entire process. It’s the process
of working with loved ones and friends,
giving each other a hard time, making
some memories, and doing something
awesome! Thanks again to each and every one of you out there for all you do!
Remember, “Balance is key. Balance
good, everything is good!”
Above the Best!
CSM Hauke
brian.n.hauke.mil@mail.mil
CSM Brian N. Hauke is the commandsergeant major of the Aviation Branch
and the U.S. Army Aviation Center of
Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

16

July 31, 2019u Combat Readiness Center Update

The Heat is Rising

By COL Jason L. Miller

U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD PHOTO BY PFC EMILY WHITE

Oklahoma National Guard Soldiers with
Company C, 2-245th Aviation Battalion, 90th
Troop Command refuel their UH-60 Black
Hawk helicopter on May 25, 2019 in Tulsa
before departing to Camp Gruber, Oklahoma toevacuate residence stranded by recent storms.

T

he summer season brings new hazards aviators
must mitigate, including increased temperature,dynamic and severe weather conditions, and generally
higher operational tempo.
During the past five years, 57 percent
of Class A mishaps and nearly 60 percent of all Class A-C mishaps occurred
during the summer months of June
through September. Last year alone,
six of the 11 mishaps occurred during
this time frame. Specific risks and challenges associated with the summer flying months manifest themselves in mechanical and physiological domains andare reduced through constant awarenessand leader involvement.
As the spring fog and rain give way
to summer, most units take advantageof the increased number of flying days.
Based upon increased temperature, performance planning cards objectively
identify the reduction in aircraft engine
performance but don’t intuitively indicate the inevitable decrease in maneuverability. Additionally, dynamic variationsin the weather – from exceptionally dry
to thunderstorms – all require changes
to the actual techniques of maneuvering
an aircraft. In dry conditions, degradedvisual environments might become moreprevalent due to dust and grass. During
severe weather such as thunderstorms
and lightning, an aircraft could encounter more intense turbulence even miles
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

away from the actual storm cell. Professional aviators, using the weather forecast and knowledge of the fundamentals
of flight, have greater success accounting
for aircraft limitations due to the summer weather environment.
Reduced Crew Performance
A more subjective challenge during
warm weather conditions is the potential reduction in crew performance.
Long before an aviator would become aheat casualty, there is commonly fatigue
associated with operating in a hot environment while wearing required aviation life support equipment — at least
until the body acclimates. When fatigue
is combined with dehydration and longwork hours, crew and support personnel might experience reduced physicaland mental performance well before theend of the duty day. Leaders must assesscrews physically and holistically, and not
let only the risk common operational
picture dictate crew capacity.
Environmental Factors
Leaders need to address environmental factors using the lens of thesemechanical and physiological chal18

lenges as they pertain to mission complexity. First, pilot briefings specifically
dedicated to the effects of the environment on man and machine increaseawareness, and environmental impacts
can be further demonstrated throughsimulated flight. Next, mission briefing
officers are the commander’s first line of
mitigation and have the responsibility
to review overall mission planning (andperformance planning), assess hazards
and profiles, and assist in developing
control measures to conduct operations effectively and safely. Finally, themission approval authority needs to
conduct a real-time assessment of thecrews and mission to balance risk versus
reward. Leaders must understand there
are no routine missions.
Lastly, with extended daylight during
the summer months, aircrews should
be aware of potential hazards as NVG
operations push later into the duty day
and possibly outside an aviator’s normal
circadian rhythm. Leaders and mission
briefing officers must be aware of the effects on fatigue and crew endurance, andplan operations accordingly.
Even the most professional aviators
can become complacent when operating in a familiar environment without
accounting for the change in summer
weather. When environmental conditions change, leaders, mission briefers,
and aircrews must remain vigilant to not
fall prey to a comfort zone associatedwith repetitive missions. As a leader, are
you looking forward, remaining vigilant,
and considering the changing environmental conditions as you prepare foryour next mission?
Readiness Through Safety!
COL Jason L. Miller is the deputy
commander of the Combat ReadinessCenter at Fort Rucker, AL.
July 31, 2019

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u Reserve Components Aviation Update

Synthetic Aviation Maintenance Training
Environment By COL Andrew D. CecilA

rmy Aviation has the opportunity to advance
Aviation maintenance training into the synthetic
training environment.
Aviation equipment and systems haveadvanced from the analog to the digitalover the past two decades (UH-60A/L
to UH-60M; CH-47D to CH-47F;
AH-64A to AH-64D/E). The training for helicopter maintenance personnel has not changed commensurate tothis change in complexity. We can andshould now correct that deficiency.
Aviation maintenance training inArmy units is essentially an apprenticeship program requiring close supervision,
limited learner autonomy and restricted
initiative. These controls represent necessary restrictions on the apprentice due tothe high cost of mistakes on operational
aircraft. This system restricts training atunit level principally to on-aircraft training and studying schematics. It is a system designed, implemented, and necessary for the 20th century.
Army Aviation is now solidly in the
21st century; a new system to train, certify, and track Soldier aviation mainteARMY AVIATION Magazine

nance training is required. Army Aviation needs a synthetic training environment (STE) aircraft maintenance trainer
for training and maintaining perishable
aircraft maintenance tasks without physically affecting an operational aircraft.
The STE aircraft maintenance trainer
should provide training in aircraft systems, subsystems, and component familiarization as well as fault identification,
isolation, and remediation. Ideally, theSTE would provide multiple levels of
training including: guided task training
with step by step instructions; unguided
task training requiring the student toreference the appropriate maintenancemanual; and advanced training on trouble shooting by use of faults included in
the system. The system should track students by a unique ID to allow leadershipto track and document individual Soldier
training completed.
The Army Reserve Aviation Command (ARAC) consists of two expe20

ditionary combat aviation brigades(ECABs), four tactical rotorcraft battalions and an aviation support battalion(ASB). The ARAC’s tactical rotorcraft
maintenance footprint is spread over
11 installations and nine states. Procurement of large or expensive systems
is cost prohibitive for a geographicallydispersed command. The STE maintenance trainer must be cost effective andupdates should be “pushed” automatically rather than requiring user actions
to update to a new configuration.
In order to advance our Aviation
maintenance training programs, Army
Aviation should partner with the Synthetic Training Environment Cross
Functional Team (STE CFT) to identify and test appropriate systems. Ourforce will remain in high demand andwill continue to execute at a high OPTEMPO. Our Soldiers deserve the best
training we can provide. Moving to asynthetic training environment allowing our Soldiers to learn at an accelerated pace based on individual initiativeis critical to changing the paradigm.
COL Andrew D. Cecil is the deputy commander of the U.S. Army Reserve Aviation
Command located at Fort Knox, KY.
July 31, 2019

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

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July 31, 2019u 128th Aviation Brigade Update

Introducing Virtual Training into Aviation
Maintenance By SFC Matthew Harris

T

U.S. ARMY 128TH AVN. BDE. PHOTO

he 128th Aviation
Brigade must focus
on developing andimplementing advanced
technology training
devices across all rotary
wing airframes to remain
relevant and improve thequality of training.
Soldiers now train in virtual reality – practice makes perfect!

Incorporation of virtual training acrossall the Brigade’s Programs of Instruction (POI) will enable the organization
to train more Soldiers, and train them
faster. The 128th Aviation Brigade continues to work with program managers
and members of the Aviation industry
to plan for, develop and resource virtual
training devices in order to effectively
educate aircraft maintainers utilizing
the adult learning model.
One of the ways the Brigade is currently using virtual training is the Virtual Interactive Environment (VIE) in
the 15F Aircraft Electrician courses. The
VIE is a computer-based system thatcan be configured to support classroom
instruction, as well as maintenance training exercises in conjunction with a fullmock-up aircraft training device. These
devices enable instructors to provide
lecture type instruction while simultaneously delivering visual concepts that
demonstrate aircraft system theory andcapability more comprehensively. Under instructor-controlled and self-paced
training, individual trainees can coversystems location, descriptions, theoryof operations, maintenance operational
checks (MOC), simulated fault isolation procedures (FIP), and component
removal / reinstallation tasks.
Throughout MOCs troubleshooting, and FIPs, this device can be used
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

to enhance learning and enforce proper
maintenance procedures in a controlledenvironment. Visual demonstration of
how systems interact such as engine
fuel and airflow or hydraulic systems
and flight control functions, provides aclearer understanding when performing
maintenance on actual hardware components. Thus, reinforcing a Soldier’s ability
to conduct research and seek the answers
to their own questions, increasing theirtechnical knowledge and knowledge retention. This device is not designed totake away from hands on training, it ismeant to supplement training and increase overall knowledge. Instructors canuse these devices to impart a deeper leverof understanding. These devices are also
used for students attending Advanced
Leaders Course. These devices have quick
search capabilities and are excellent forrefresher training for Soldiers at all levels.
Since these programs are computerbased, it is considerably less expensive
than purchasing traditional simulated
aircraft trainers. While each trainer isphysically identical, the media can be
designed for a specific aircraft system
or interchangeable. When updates are
required, the virtual trainer can be updated as a simple download of the new
information, while other training devices might have to be transferred tothe manufacturer. This once again shows
22

the benefits of virtual training devices
by limiting downtime for upgrades incomparison to individualized “mock-up”
training devices.
Overall, virtual training provides an
exceptional tool in the education andtraining of our aviation maintainers.
When used to its full potential in conjunction with hands on training, higher
qualified aircraft maintainers will be
produced. It allows for better training
to be accomplished faster, without sacrificing quality or standards. Additionally, once integrated into the POI there
is a potential for cost reduction throughdecreased course lengths and constantwear on components. Just like any other
tool, it’s only as good as the individuals
using it. The instructors across the 128th
Aviation Brigade are some of the best
NCOs in Army Aviation and they work
every day to train and develop the future
maintainers and leaders of our branch.
Virtual training will ensure that before
heading to their first duties stations
around the globe, the aviation maintainers that graduate are knowledgeable,
safety conscious, and capable.
SFC Matthew W. Harris is a 15K assigned
to the 128th Aviation Brigade. Currently
works as a training developer in the Systems Integration Division (SID) at Joint
Base Langley-Eustis, VA.
July 31, 2019

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

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JulyLive31, 2019
To Fly To Power To

u Tech Talk

Commercially Derived Aircraft for the
Army Aviator By Mr. Daniel McClintock

S

The Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) defines CDA aircraft as a commercial type-certified aircraft converted
for operational use by the U.S. Armed
Forces. U.S. law requires the Army toprovide airworthiness oversight for its
aircraft. The Army Aviation Enterpriseis evolving its use of the CDA process
to provide capability for the Army andfor partner nations faster and more efficiently. There are some challenges inusing the CDA process, but the rewards make it well worth it.
The CDA process can significantly
improve the time to deliver aircraft.
Using civil aircraft available, the MultiNational Aircraft Special Project
Office (MASPO) was able to begin
fielding twenty-four armed MD 530s
to the Afghan Air Force with lessthan nine months of development
and production time. Beginning froman established production line with arecognized airworthiness authority canbe an incredible advantage.
There are differences in using the
CDA process that can be challenges.
First, continuing airworthiness instructions involved for commercial
aircraft do not follow the same naming conventions system used for Armysafety messages. Items such as Service
Bulletins and Airworthiness Directives
may indicate impacts on continued
operation for CDA. The engineering
staffs of the Program Managers andthe Aviation Engineering DirectorARMY AVIATION Magazine

ALL PHOTOS: U.S. ARMY MASPO COURTESY PHOTO

ince the introductionof the TH-67,
every Army Aviator has
been involved with theCommercially Derived
Aircraft (CDA) process.

Delivered MD-369FF with FAA Certificates of Airworthinessate work to review and incorporate the
FAA based messages to ensure the field
has the right information the right way
to maintain airworthiness. Second, unlike the Army, the FAA does not centrally locate its engineering data for
airworthiness. Rather, the Type Certificate or Supplemental Type Certificate
holder is responsible for maintaining
engineering data. This tends to makeairworthiness decisions such as Maintenance Engineering Call (MEC, anengineering approval of a nonstandard
repair) or depot level repair procedures
more responsive than the FAA process.
Typical MEC response time is lessthan 72 hours. Integrating the FAA
continued airworthiness processes withfielded Army systems requires solidcommunication with its original equipment manufacturer and FAA partners.
Finally, some requirements driven by
the Army’s lessons learned are required
for Army airworthiness. Examples ofmore stringent requirements include
operations above 131 degrees (the FAA
halts operations in higher temperatures), crashworthy, ballistic tolerant
fuel systems for helicopters, and higher
24

electromagnetic protections for systems come from specific Army lessons
learned in its operating environment.
Future Vertical Lift (FVL) will challenge us to find ways to equip the Army
Aviator faster than we have done in thepast. What may prove to be the highest payoff of the CDA process for the
Army is in the exposure of its engineers
to the different airworthiness processesof the FVL performers. Involvement in
CDA efforts could see a broader baseand perspective of the aviation industry. As each CDA effort is undertaken,
we get the opportunity to improve ourairworthiness basis of safety. We arelearning more ways to approach ourend goal of innovating airworthinesscapabilities for increasingly complex
Army aircraft systems.

Mr. Daniel McClintock is in the U.S.
Army Combat Capabilities Development
Command Aviation & Missile Center
Aviation Engineering Directorate, NonStandard Rotary Wing Division locatedat Redstone Arsenal, AL.
July 31, 2019

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

25

July 31, 2019

u Ask the Flight Surgeon

Plantar Fasciitis
By CPT Frank Stafford, D.O.

Q:

The bottom of my feet, especially my heels,
have really been hurting. The pain is the worst
when I first get up in the morning. It can get so badthat it makes it difficult to walk or stand for a long time
let alone go for a run. I read on the internet that this
could be plantar fasciitis. What is that?

FS: Plantar fasciitis is when the fascia, a
thick, wide band of tissue that runs fromthe base of your toes to your heel, becomes inflamed and painful. This tissue
acts as a shock absorber and supports
the arch of the foot. Too much pressure
on your feet can irritate or even tear the
fascia causing pain and stiffness in thefoot. Pain is typically worse after you

have been off your feet and the fascia
has not been stretched out for a while.
The presentation of plantar fasciitis is astabbing pain in your heel when you first
get out of bed in the morning or when
standing after a long car ride or flight.
Plantar fasciitis usually starts off withminor irritation and can be tolerated
reasonably well. However, as time pro-

gresses, the tears, inflammation and associated pain often increase to the point
where running, jumping, or any impact
on the foot becomes intolerable. This
could prevent you from being physically
active and may affect your ability to operate an aircraft safely. Safety of flight
can be jeopardized by distraction from
pain, physical limitations due to pain,
inability to properly pre-flight or inability to safely egress.
Treatment
Diagnosis can be made by your aeromedical provider using the history of
your symptoms and a physical exam in
the office. All forms of treatment involve rest (but not inactivity) and allowing the tissue to heal from the tears. Initially, you will need to limit the pressure
applied to the feet and not perform any
activities that cause pain. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or
naproxen can be used to reduce pain
and swelling. Additional therapies such

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

26

July 31, 2019as ice baths for the feet, rolling a tennis ball or frozen plastic bottle of water
under the arch of the foot may reduce
inflammation and promote healing. A
lower leg stretching routine as well as
the nightly use of a foot brace may prevent the painful tightening of the fascia.
Orthotics such as heel lifts and arch
supports are additional options. X-rays
are not required to diagnosis plantar fasciitis but may be used to identify othercauses of foot pain like stress fractures orabnormal boney outgrowths called spurs
that have their own treatment regimens.
As the pain decreases, you can begin
increasing your activity levels. Examples
are slowly jogging short distances andthen adding distance and speed over 2-3
months. If you experience any worsening of the pain at any level, you should
return to the previous comfortable levelof activity. If given enough time, mostcases of plantar fasciitis will resolve on
their own without further treatment. If
conservative therapies are not successful,then injections typically using steroids
or even foot surgery may be considered.
Same day surgery is generally consideredafter all other methods have been unsuccessful. Recovery time requires a few
weeks and physical therapy is often initiated about two weeks after the surgery.
Prevention
Certain interventions can help
prevent the occurrence or recurrenceof plantar fasciitis. Extra body weightincreases the stress on the arches ofthe feet and increases your chances of
irritating the plantar fascia. In addition,
quality footwear that provides properarch support should a part of yourprevention regimen. Shoes should
support your arch and protect yourheel or allow the use of properly fitted
inserts. Even the best shoes wear out,
losing their ability to support your archand should be changed periodically.
This is especially true if they get heavy
use like running or other athletic
shoes. A physical therapist is a greatsource of stretches and their proper
execution. These stretches can include
the “Achilles Stretch,” “Stair Stretch,”toe stretch and several others. Recent
studies have shown that muscle
strengthening of the foot and ankle
may have a role in returning the injured
back to physical activity sooner andhelp prevent the return of the problem.
Please see your aeromedical provider
for assistance with the right prevention
and treatment plan for you.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Flight Status
This condition does not usually limit
your ability to fly unless the pain interferes with flight activities. If pain andstiffness limit your ability to work thepedals or to safely egress the aircraft, thena period of grounding will be necessary as
you work through the concern. Properly
fitted orthotics can be used while flying
without concern. Steroid injections only
limit you from flying the day that you get
the injection, otherwise you can fly. The
surgery will keep you out of the cockpit
until the surgical wound is healed, yourpain is well-controlled, and you are able
to safely perform your duties.
Stay safe!
Futura Med w/Bernard Fashion

Questions for the Flight
Surgeon?
If you have a question you would likeaddressed, email it to AskFS@quad-a.
org; we’ll try to address it in the future.
See your unit flight surgeon for yourpersonal health issues.
The views and opinions offered arethose of the author and researchers andshould not be construed as an official
Department of the Army position unless otherwise stated.
CPT (Dr.) Frank C. Stafford is a flightsurgeon at the School of Army Aviation
Medicine, Fort Rucker, AL.

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Special Focus u Simulation & Training

Doctrine Update

U.S. ARMYAVIATION CENTER OF EXCELLENCE GRAPHIC

By COL George G. Ferido and COL Jimmy L. Meacham, U.S. Army RetiredIn an attempt to provide an update to the Aviation
Enterprise, we decided to use this article to provide aquick snapshot of the major changes in our doctrine. WhenI assumed the role of Director of DOTD (Directorateof Training and Doctrine) for the United States Army
Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE), I knew very
little about what we did for the branch. Other than flightschool and a couple of TDY trips, my knowledge of the Ft.
Rucker machine, the generating force for Army Aviation,
was lacking. As a consumer of Ft. Rucker products formany years, I was now a part of the “they/them” pronounthat produce the training and doctrine material requiredby front-line units. The constantly evolving doctrinal
manuals and training materials were enough to make yourhead spin. Terms like Multi-Domain Operations (MDO),
Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), and Aviation
Warfighting Initiative were terms I was familiar with, but
only understood superficially. Several years away from theoperational force doing non-typical assignments eroded
my doctrinal knowledge base and understanding of what
I should know as an Aviation professional. Additionally,
the ad-hoc approach to mission planning, preparation,and execution associated with repeated counterinsurgency
and partner capability development deployments (think,“CONOP” mentality) have contributed to a lack ofunderstanding of aviation doctrine. Although not an excuse,it’s the reality that we have lived for the past two decades.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

As I had the privilege of reviewing and approving doctrinalmaterial for our force, I was immersed in current tactics,
techniques, procedures, and terms. As the Director, but more
importantly as a professional, I forced myself to learn where
we are headed with our most critical doctrine publications.
I am truly excited about the emphasis the Commanding
General put on our company- and field grade-level manuals.
Many of our 3-04 series publications have been revised
and provide a better foundation for Aviation operations in
LSCO. I’m proud of what the DOTD and USAACE teamhas accomplished in less than one year as we transitioned
our focus to LSCO. I encourage all leaders to reorient on
our doctrine and training publications as well as our training
strategies to ensure we remain above the best!
We continue our recurring doctrinal updates with a focus
on improving our “Ready Now” capability in LSCO. Severalof our key documents will be released in the coming months.
FM 3-04, Army Aviation updates previous doctrine anddescribes how Army Aviation forces, as part of the combinedarms team, shape operational environments, prevent
conflict, conduct LSCO, and consolidate gains against peercompetitors. It provides a foundation for subordinate doctrine
and training literature, professional military education,
leader development, and individual and collective training.
Significant updates to FM 3-04 include implications for
multi-domain effects on aviation units, added discussion ofaviation unit survivability against peer capabilities (to include
28

July 31, 2019command post survivability), and the addition of counter-air
and air-volcano capabilities in aviation units.
For ATP 3-04.1, Aviation Tactical Employment, weundertook a complete rewrite to better prepare small unit
aviation leaders to operate as part of the combined arms
team in LSCO. The intent for this rewrite was threefold:(1) Develop a manual to serve as the primary reference forall company-level planning, preparation, and execution foraviation tactical tasks; (2) Provide a teaching documentthat applies to any operational environment; and (3) Write
the manual to align with, and expand on, the steps listed
in training and evaluation outlines (T&EOs). The manual
provides an expanded discussion of many of the performancesteps leaders will see in T&EOs guiding aviation tacticaltasks. We took steps to align the content in the ATP with
T&EO performance steps and to fill in gaps as a more indepth guide to planning, preparation, and execution of thesetactical tasks. Just as an aircraft operator’s manual provides
expanded procedures when compared to a checklist, thismanual provides added depth and context to the steps in the
T&EO.
DOTD’s Survivability Branch recently concluded thedevelopment of ATP 3-04.2, Aviation Combat Tactics
and Survivability. We are truly excited to see this manual
provided to the force, as it contains enhanced survivability
techniques and threat information. I suspect this document
will help modernize mission survivability training in ourwarfighting units and improve our ability to be time-ontarget in any environment. It will be available soon on the
DOTD Survivability Branch IntelShare.

ATP 3-04.7, Army Aviation Maintenance, will be
updated with adjustments derived from a series of Aviation
Sustainment Table-Top Exercises (TTX) conducted during
the last 9 months.
The TTXs were organized by chronological phases of
a LSCO designed to generate in-depth analysis focusedon sustaining aviation forces as part of an expeditionary
operation through logistical actions during LSCO. In total,
the TTX tested our ability to move from Ft. to fight, andthen sustain operations against peer adversaries. TTX results
should guide unit locations on the battlefield, maintenanceteam composition, capability, and size, and aircraft evacuation
thought processes.
Except for ATP 3-04.2, all documents are available
from www.armypubs.army.mil. The DOTD Doctrine
and Collective Training Branch maintains a summary
product showing the current status of all doctrine, training,
and training support products available from DOTD.
It is available from https://www.ako1.us.army.mil/suite/
files/8816809.
Our doctrine and training strategies must evolve toaddress our current adversaries’ capabilities. Maintaining
status quo will mean losing a fight against a peer or nearpeer threat.
COL George G. Ferido is the director and COL(Ret.) Jimmy L. Meacham the deputy directorof the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence
Directorate of Training and Doctrine, at Ft.
Rucker, AL.

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

29

July 31, 2019

Special Focus u Simulation & Training

Common Challenges
and Means to Mitigate Them
By LTC Eric Megerdoomian and numerous DES SMEs

T

When executing RL progressions, Aviation Mission Survivability Officers (AMSOs) and IPs must develop tactical scenarios that employ the crawl, walk, run methodology.
After RL progression, flight schedules often fail to maximize every flight to develop pilot-in-command and airmission-commander candidates. Annual Proficiency andReadiness Tests must be tactically focused IAW the Aviation
Warfighting Initiative, TC 3-04.11, and our Aircrew Training Module (ATM) and nested in doctrine.
Range constraints and time availability is affecting ourgunnery training. The TC 3-04.3 is designed to give units
as much freedom as possible and encourages creativity toovercome challenges and constraints. If we utilize theseproducts and employ our doctrine, we will greatly increase
readiness, survivability and lethality.

he Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES)
is afforded a unique perspective of our branch. Throughassistance and assessments of our aviation units, we are exposed
to units who struggle with similar challenges and are witness tocreative means to overcome them.

RCM

Leaders of Rated Crew Members (RCMs) allow improper
procedures to manifest due to mission requirements. This
creates a culture that accepts deviations from the standard
dictated by our regulations. It is common to find organizations disregarding AR 95-1, TC 3-04.11 and their own unit
Standard Operating Procedure in the execution of their Aircrew Training Program (ATP). Centralized Aviation Flight
Records System (CAFRS) templates, Battalion and Brigade
level oversight, and the use of the DES Individual Aircrew
Training Folder (IATF) review checklist will address theseshortfalls in the management of the ATP.
In addition to ATP management, RCM mission proficiency
is decreasing because of a disproportionate focus on base tasks
over mission tasks during Readiness Level (RL) progressions.
Often, this is attributed to the large number of RL progressions required with a limited number of Instructor Pilots (IPs).
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

NRCM

Leaders must take a proactive approach in assigning
Flight Instructors (FIs) or Standardization Instructors (SI)or Soldiers with the “N1” Additional Skill Identifier (ASI)
deliberately to mitigate standardization challenges our Nonrated Crewmembers are facing. We have observed a rapid
turnover rate in enlisted NRCMs challenging nearly every
30

July 31, 2019

ALL PHOTOS BY LTC ERIC MEGERDOOMIAN

unit across our branch. With promotion rates, MTOE gradeplate restrictions, and the normal career glide path of midgrade NCOs moving out of flight companies, we are notretaining vital ACM experience where risk is greatest. This
loss of experience is clearly visible during DES assessments
as academic knowledge is suffering, indicated by an average
written evaluation pass rate below 55%. Marginal flight
performance and low FI knowledge levels are also frequently
observed. In order to man the Standardization Instructor (SI)at the Battalion level, commanders are forced to send junior
E5s to the Air Crewmember Standardization Instructor
Course (ACSI) with just enough flight time to meet course
pre-requisites and then assigning them to E6 positions at thebattalion level. These SIs who are now responsible for ATP
management, gunnery, and junior FI mentorship, generally
do not possess the experience necessary to be successful inthese positions.
ASCI at United States Army Aviation Center of
Excellence (USAACE) has found that less than 40% arestill executing SI responsibilities due to promotion, End ofTime in Service (ETS) and accessions to the Warrant Officer
corps. We have also observed a negative career stigma in the
NCO corps favoring (for promotion) those who directly
lead troops verse those who choose a flight centric path. This
stigma leads our experienced enlisted crewmembers to pursue
positions outside of the flight companies leaving these units
with considerably less capability.
The problem set is being addressed by our branch, but
we can take some actions to mitigate the impacts of FI/SI
shortages within our units We should also consider removing
self-imposed restrictions in our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that prevent sending candidates to the ACSIARMY AVIATION Magazine

Maintainers with 4-4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion prepare an AH-64D
for an attack against enemy forces out of friendly contact on 13 MAR 2015
during a field training exercise at Fort Carson, CO.

course based on minimal utilization or PCS dates. Rather,
we should understand and utilize AR 614-200, (paragraph4-6i) which enables commanders to adjust service-remaining
requirements (SSR) with HRC's approval when Soldierscomplete the ASCI TDY and Return to the unit. This allows
the Soldiers to attain an assignment eligibility and availability(AEA) code of “G” giving stability under “special category”
not to exceed 48 months.
Despite the great potential for change in the future, ultimately, we must find creative means to incentivize the importance ofstandardization for our NRCMs in the flight companies andbetter manage the resident experience within our formations to
mitigate risk through training and standardization.

MX

Army Aviation maintenance is undergoing significant
change. The development of the TC 3-04.71 Aviation Maintenance Training Program (AMTP) is the most significant which
affects all units. The qualification, currency, and proficiency ofenlisted maintainers has been over-looked for many years andthe AMTP is a means to deliberately integrate the training of
our maintainers. The .71 assists in formalizing the qualificationand proficiency of our maintainers much like the ATP. Our
units cannot stop maintenance and build combat power simply
to focus on train maintainers. This program enables the training and qualification of our maintainers concurrent to execut31

July 31, 2019

ALL PHOTOS BY LTC ERIC MEGERDOOMIAN

We assess the lack of mentorship is a result from two causal
factors stemming from our senior warrant officers and noncommissioned officers. First, a minority of our maintainers
do not understand how to execute the maintenance tasks tostandard themselves making it nearly impossible for them tocoach, teach, and mentor. Second, a minority of our senior
maintainers do not spend the requisite time on the hangar
floor or on the flight line mentoring junior Soldiers executing

A crewmember prepares to receive passengers on his UH-60 at the National
Training Center on October 16, 2016.

ing maintenance tasks. Units should begin to implement the
AMTP as this program will be in effect by FY21.
Parallel to the lack of a formal maintainer training
program is the lack of mentorship we often observe in units.

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July 31, 2019

their tasks. Combined, our Soldiers lack the development
and mentorship necessary to execute their tasks to standard
resulting in a reduction of our combat power.

UAS

The most prevalent challenge concerning Unmanned
Aircraft Systems (UAS) across the aviation enterprise is thefull integration of UAS into the Combat Aviation Brigades(CABs) and the Heavy Attack Reconnaissance Squadrons(HARS). On assessments we observe relatively less command
involvement and oversight of UAS formations than manned
aircraft formations resulting in poor ATP management,
maintenance, reporting, support, and training. Though typically caused by the physical dislocation of UAS units, challenges with launch / recovery sites, training areas, or off-cycle
deployments, leaders at all levels should continue to strive andfind creative ways to provide oversight during training.
In execution, we often find UAS crews attempting to support the units’ mission but lack the necessary security / reconnaissance guidance or tools to do so effectively. This inhibits
the UAS Aircraft Commanders (ACs) ability to execute disciplined initiative and reduces the effectiveness of the crew.
Use of the commander’s security or reconnaissance guidanceand Information Collection (IC) are critical elements thatenables ACs and transform operators into scouts.
Lastly, we often observe relatively poor standardization
programs within UAS organizations. The immediate cause isa lack of proficient ATP managers largely attributed to theInstructor Operator (IO) shortages across the Army.
Given these constraints, CAB and BN commanders (muchlike NRCM/N1s mentioned above) can set the conditions

to develop and sustain a strong ATP. First, we must forecast
early the loss or movement of IOs in order to ensure timely
replacements are postured to provide the necessary oversight.
Second, we must commit our Standardization Pilots (SPs) ofunits with UAS to become intimately aware of UAS training
requirements themselves, then train, mentor, and develop IOs
within their formations. Finally, the SPs and commanders
should provide the same level of oversight of the UAS
formations and their ATPs as any other within their purview.

Summary

DES witnesses firsthand the challenges our units must
face in training as we prepare to fight in large scale combat
operations (LSCO) and Multi-Domain Operations (MDO).
The challenges in standardization of rated and non-rated
crewmembers, training of our maintenance personnel, andintegration of our unmanned aerial systems operators arevery real. Although Aviation Branch is working diligently on
training and doctrine initiatives to build the combat powerof our future forces, we must develop and employ near term
innovative solutions to help lead and develop our current
force. Consider the options mentioned above to mitigate
these challenges at least as “A Way” of counteracting thechallenges and building lethal and survivable formations able
to fight and win in a complex environment.
LTC Eric Megerdoomian is the deputy director of
the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization
at the United States Army Aviation Center of
Excellence, Fort Rucker, AL.

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

33

July 31, 2019

NTC EAGLE TEAM COURTESY PHOTO

Special Focus u Simulation & Training

Building Aviation Readiness & Lethality
at the National Training Center
By LTC Clint Cody, LTC Peter Schmitt, and LTC Cameron GallagherOver the past twelve months the aviation trainers at the
National Training Center have been extremely busy
observing, coaching and training our aviation formations
as they endure the 14 toughest days in the Mojave Desert.
Below, we will discuss Eagle Team’s initiatives and how
they play a crucial role in building readiness and increasing
lethality within our formations across Army Aviation.

TF 3-17th CAV, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, conducts a combined arms
rehearsal for a deliberate attack out of friendly contact at their tacticalassembly area.

ing the day and under night vision devices to fully test our aircrew’s ability to fly and fight in all modes to include under live
fire conditions. Once the day mission is over, we conduct a thorough hot wash at the unit’s Jump FARP and prep for the night
iteration and re-attack. Immediately after the mission concludes, Eagle Team secures all gun tapes along with video fromthe threat systems and builds a comprehensive 10-15-minuteclassified AAR video, which matches both friendly and enemy
actions in time and space. This allows the air crews to see how
specific threat systems acquired, tracked, and engaged their aircraft and which TTPs were successful. Specifically, the AAR
video is invaluable because it highlights that the use of terrain,
altitude, airspeed and properly programed and functional aircraft survivability equipment (ASE) will allow them to successfully and safely get to their ABFs or LZs in order to either put
troops on the ground or steel on target.
The big win for the Team was the securing of funding toincrease execution from once per quarter for select units toevery active component rotation that comes to the NTC,

China Lake IADS Training

During FY 2019, Eagle Team continued building and expanding our partnership with Naval Air Weapons Station,
China Lake, CA and as such, our Integrated Air Defense
System (IADS) training mission sets. This complex mission
requires rotational training unit (RTU) air crews to skillfully navigate, tactically maneuver and fight their way to their
Attack By Fire (ABF) positions and Landing Zones (LZs)
through an IADS comprised of Tier 1 threat systems thatrotary wing aircraft are likely to see in the current order ofbattle. Unlike current permissive environments in Afghanistan or Iraq, our air crews must fight their way in, fight on
the objective and fight their way out in order to survive in thedecisive action training environment.
As designed and scripted, the mission is executed both durARMY AVIATION Magazine

34

July 31, 2019

Advanced Table Gunnery

In order to meet advanced table gunnery requirements(Table IX and XII) as outlined in TC 3-04.3, Aviation
Gunnery (March 2019), Eagle team has incorporated different
mission sets into the force on force under live fire conditions
phase of the rotation. Based off of the Aviation TF’s crewqualification status and commander’s training objectives weare able to include hasty attack missions in support of the
BSA defense (Table VIII/IX) and deliberate attack missions(Table XI/XII) so that air crews are able to not only leave
NTC as recent participants in the world’s largest combinedarms live-fire exercise but also with team qualification (Table
IX) and platoon training (Table XII).
Either as part of a China Lake “fly through” mission in
Echo Range or deliberate attack into Leach Lake, 52 ID will
direct the aviation TF to conduct a deliberate attack mission
to destroy Donovian forces. In a recent example of a 52 ID
shaping operation, the aviation TF had four days to develop
a plan to support an ingress and egress route over 125 km
each way through a contested IADS environment, stretchinglines of communication, the need for employment of a Jump
FARP and over the horizon communications (both voice anddigital). In addition, the Aviation TF was able to plan forboth live and constructive EAB assets to include UAS and
AF FW as well as 52 ID Fires from High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). The mission stressed every
warfighting function from planning to execution. After the
day iteration, the crews conducted a hot wash and executed
the same mission at night. This mission set met not only the
ARMY AVIATION Magazineadvanced table gunnery requirements, but more importantly
exercised planning at echelon from CAB TAC to Aviation
TF to the company/troop level.

What’s Next?

The Eagle Team will continue to lead our Aviation branchin observing, coaching, and training Aviation Task Forces in
the conduct of decisive action operations. The componentsthat define world-class combat aviation training at the NTC
are and will continue to be the pace and mission complexity.
However, by far the most important resource at the NTC
are the quality of Aviation, Intelligence, Fires, Signal, andSustainment professionals which comprise our team. It is
PHOTO COURTESY OF CPT CODY THOMPSON

which is currently eight times per year. Our standard mission sets continue to be the following: attack out of friendly
contact (AH), attack out of friendly contact with follow onraid (AH, UH, CH) and the fly through (all MDS). We also
have shifted this event to occur during the live fire portion of
the rotation, which provides an opportunity for the Aviation
Task Force’s crews to receive advance gunnery table credit.
Based on the rotational construct and amount of aircraft that
the Aviation Task Force brings with appropriate ASE, will
dictate which mission set the unit will be able to execute.
Since our update last year, three combat aviation brigades
have employed their tactical command posts (TAC) in support of their respective Aviation task forces. All three elements received the mission order from52 Infantry Division (ID), coordinatedfor division and joint enablers to include
fires, fixed wing, and UAS to both gather
intelligence and set the conditions fortheir respective TF and air crews to execute. After conducting a repetition of
MDMP, each TAC briefed their respective TF on the mission, which allowed
each TF to focus on RP inbound maneuver and EA Development. Another benefit of CAB TACs – ranging in size from
6-20 personnel – is that they provided therequisite subject matter expertise not typically assigned to a BN/SQ TF to assist
with planning and coordinating a 52 ID
shaping operation. The feedback from these three organizations – both from a HICON and EXCON perspective – hasbeen vital to improving the quality of the mission products
and injects we provide to the RTU.

AH-64D refueling and re-arming at the Jump FARP.

through our member’s collective ingenuity, guided by doctrine
and facilitated by a “how to get to yes” attitude, that the out offriendly contact attack scenario at China Lake was born. Thatsaid, one must ask, “what’s next?”
The next step is for our Aviation community’s supporting
agencies to bear witness to the training taking place and to takelessons learned back in order to foment change in the greater
force. Product Office for Common Systems Integration (PdD
CSI), along with the Threat Warning Product Office and representatives from Northrop Grumman, were the first to jumpat this opportunity during rotation 19-07. Topics discussed
ranged from how the IADS threat is replicated at NTC, wheretraining shortfalls exist, technological limitations that contribute to those shortcomings, and timelines/capabilities for PMO
ASE developmental efforts (i.e. ASE B-Kit Emulator [ABE]).
We invite all – from the Army Reprogramming and Analysis Team (ARAT), the DOTD Aviation Mission Survivability Officer (AMSO) branch, and other PMOs come towitness firsthand the real-world training successes and challenges in order to guide future institutional and material efforts so that army aviation continues to be the most lethal
asset on the battlefield.
LTC Clint Cody is the senior aviation trainer at the National
Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA and former commander of
1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment at Ft. Riley, KS; LTC Peter
Schmitt is the deputy aviation trainer / XO mentor at NTC andthe next commander of 4th Bn., 2nd Avn. Regt.
(Attack/Reconnaissance) at Camp Humphreys,
Korea; and LTC Cameron Gallagher is the senioraviation operations trainer at NTC and the next
commander of 1-501st ARB at Ft. Bliss, TX.
35

July 31, 2019

Special Focus u Simulation & Training
Focusing on
the DeepFight to Build
Lethality:

A JMRC
Perspective

A Shadow UAS simulation at JMRC.

I

n March of this year in front of the
Senate Armed Services Committee,
the Army Secretary, Mark T. Esper andthe Chief of Staff of the Army, General Mark A. Milley, reaffirmed theirvision and way forward to building the
Army of 2028. Their vision focused onreadiness as the number one priority as
we man, equip, and train our forces forlarge scale combat operations (LSCO).
As we build the Army of 2028, themessage from senior leaders is pretty
clear—build unmatched lethality!1 A
recent interview with General Milleyemphasized increasing the number ofrotations at combat training centers(CTC) in an effort to build readiness.2 We ask ourselves, “are we doing
things right and are we doing the rightthings?” Through observations as observers coach trainers at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center ( JMRC),
the Army’s forward-deployed CTC, we
are increasing the number of rotations– we are doing things right. However,are we doing the right things to effectively build unmatched lethality?

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Cost to Readiness?

JMRC and the other CTCs currently
focus on brigade combat teams (BCT)
as the primary training audience. Whenunits are slotted to participate, a majority have limited time and resources toproperly adhere to a training glide path
to validate mission command systems
and prepare standard operating procedures necessary for decisive action in
the European environment. This trend
is especially true for regionally aligned
forces (RAF) observed deployed inEurope who normally have a JMRC
rotation prior to redeployment and experience significant personnel turnoveror major fielding upon return to homestation. Most BCTs fight for limited
home station training resources prior
to CTC rotations, which usually affects
the most important step of the 8-steptraining model—conduct retraining.
As we modernize our Army, units willneed additional time to train and develop tactics, techniques, and procedures focused on LSCO. While theArmy continues to reduce unnecessary
36

U.S. ARMY PHOTOS BY LTC DARYL VON HAGEL

By MAJ Troy Gillett andMAJ Durward Johnson
training requirements, most commanders would likely argue they still do nothave the time to properly retrain a collective task to standard or higher prior
to a CTC rotation. Getting anotherrepetition or attempting to improve ata collective task eludes most formations
prior to participation in a CTC. Would
increasing the number of CTC rotations for BCTs be the right answer to
get after lethality? Or would allowing
the BCTs more home station repetitions at collective tasks be a better fit forbuilding readiness and lethality prior toparticipation in CTCs? How could webuild the necessary white space on the
training calendar to conduct retraining
at the BCTs?

Deep Fight Focused CTC Rotation

One possible solution is for CTCs todedicate rotations to the division deep
fight. The Army’s ability to shape thedivision deep fight enables the BCT
fight to be successful during LSCO. A
rotation focused on aviation maneuverand Joint and Army fires is critical inbuilding lethality in our Army. While
the Army currently simulates the deep
fight through division warfighters
conducted by the Mission Command
Training Program (MCTP) and many
key observations are made to help shape
our doctrine, are simulations enough tobuild lethality in the deep fight? The
trends and observations from both
MCTP and CTCs demonstrate bothdivisions and BCTs are not as lethal as
they could be in their respective deep
fights. A few examples of these observed trends include asset synchronization, massing effects, targeting efforts,
and lack of a common operating picture
July 31, 2019that provide a shared understanding. A
way to reverse trends and build lethality in the deep fight may be to treat thewarfighters conducted by MCTP like a
Leaders Training Program (LTP) conducted at CTCs and provide anotherrepetition focused solely on shaping thedeep fight in a LSCO replicated environment. General Milley said it best,“In order to have maneuver, and we’resupposed to be a maneuver Army, youhave to have mass fires… we’re recapturing it.3” “Recapturing it” throughsimulations is “a way,” but is it the best
way to ensure unmatched lethality?

Put Me in Coach, I’m Ready to Build
Lethality

A combat aviation brigade (CAB)
is inherently the most agile and lethal organic formation in a division to
conduct deep operations. Fighting asa CAB is typically only trained during warfighters through simulations –great for training staffs and validatingprocesses. When asked to participate in
CTCs, most CABs send formations as
a battalion task force. A conglomerateof aircraft/aircrew form prior to a rotation and more times than not disband
immediately upon redeployment backto their organic headquarters. This is
not ideal training when the goal is tobuild lethality and readiness. The training environment at CTCs is by far themost realistic combat training environment for aircrews to participate in.
Participating aviation task forces usually end up supporting and/or focusing
on the BCT fight. However, aviation
would likely already be employed by
the division in the deep fight, yet, current CTC rotational designs do not effectively replicate this fight.
JMRC in concert with a highly
motivated CAB recently developed ascenario focused on the division deep
fight. Utilizing all live, virtual, and constructive capabilities, JMRC developed
a deep fight scenario that facilitatedparticipation of a CAB HQs, heavy attack reconnaissance squadron (HARS),
general support aviation battalion(GSAB), and an aviation support battalion (ASB). Prior to the start of the
Combined Resolve series exercise, theCAB received a division order to shapethe deep area prior to the BCT occupying tactical assembly areas (TAAs).
For the first time, a CAB commander
was able to focus on his training objectives at a CTC since the CAB was the
dedicated training audience for that
portion of the rotation. Operations
during the exercise included deliberate
attacks against division high payoff target list (HPTL), reconnaissance (bothmanned and unmanned to include
SIGINT), downed aircraft recovery
teams (DART), personnel recovery, airassaults, evacuation of causalities, andair movements focused on sustainment
low cost low altitude (LCLA) drops. At
the conclusion, JMRC observed value
in executing the division deep fight andwill implement similar scenarios into
each rotation. JMRC is currently developing an entire autonomous deep fightrotation strictly focused on the CAB.

Recommendation for Way Forward

As the Army is recapturing how tomass fires in order to facilitate maneuver,
why not send CABs and other divisionlevel assets to CTCs to build lethality
through repetitions of the deep fight?
In order to ensure the Army is better
prepared for future fights, CTCs should
dedicate rotations focused on the division deep fight. The deep fight during
LSCO is where the commander willassume great risk in employment of his
combat power, as well as, where the initiative can be gained enabling the odds
for a successful BCT fight. A rotation
dedicated to CAB and Fires training objectives along with exercising a division
staff, particularly the Joint Air-Ground
Integration Cell ( JAGIC), will replicate
the necessary repetition needed to build
lethality that can only be replicated at
CTCs. Innovation and maximizing livevirtual-constructive capabilities at our
CTCs can help build the unmatched lethality our country expects of us.
Notes
1“The Army Vision” Office of Secretary of
the Army, 7 Jun 18
2“Army Gains in readiness are just the beginning, chief of staff says” by Sean Kimmons, Army News Service, 17 Jan 19
3
Ibid

MAJ Troy Gillett and MAJ Durward
Johnson are senior observercoaches assigned to the Joint
Multinational ReadinessCenter ( JMRC), Hohenfels, Germany.

Combat aviation brigade CAR.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

37

July 31, 2019

Special Focus u Simulation & Training

Reflections on a Yearin Atropia – Good, Bad, and Ugly
By LTC Jason Davis

U.S. ARMY PHOTO COURTESY JRTC

“We haven’t been in East Atropia for 25 years…
we’ve been in East Atropia for one month 250 times.”T

hat quote plays on the adage about
Americans’ penchant for relearning lessons, but after a year serving at
the Joint Readiness Training Center( JRTC) I can attest that when it comesto combat training centers (CTCs), it istrue. Not pejoratively. ‘Groundhog Day’in Atropia is intentional. The JRTC
commander of Ops Group (COG) says
‘CTCs are the antidote to America’s first
battles.’ The antidote is effective only
when observer/coach/trainers (OCTs)
provide consistent crucible experiences
based on current threats.
JRTC’s decisive action training environment (DATE) provides that crucible to brigade combat teams (BCTs) in
preparation for large-scale combat operations (LSCO) as well as support to security force assistance brigades (SFABs)
in preparation for deployment. My tenure included both DATE and SFAB rotations representing all components.
The year in Atropia included somegood, some bad, and some ugly justlike any mission. The good news: thecoalition liberates Atropia. Even better, every Soldier leaves the CTC withmore experience and confidence and ahealthy appreciation for peer threats.
This year’s bad news provides an opportunity for Combat Aviation Brigade
leaders to shape their training plans
and turn weakness into strength. The
Army enterprise is already attacking‘the ugly.’ The field can assist by providing input to the enterprise and turning
their own ‘bad’ into good.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

The “Good”

When a “COIN hangover” emerges,commanders break through the frictionin the battle staff to drive success. BCT
leaders understand the peer threat andthe need to mass aviation assets against
it. They can visualize attack aviation
bringing more firepower to the forward
line of own troops (FLOT) than most
BCT weapons systems. BCT commanders can describe to their staffs
how to seize key terrain by massing assault aviation assets, and they regularly
direct the integration of division-levelaviation capability through their staffs.
Aviation task force (AvTF) commanders know their craft and often playthe dual role of commander and “aviation coordinator” with the BCT. The
AvTF typically integrates well into the
BCTs command structure. Successful
integration manifests itself in staff-tostaff synchronization, mirrored planninghorizons, shared threat understanding,and battle-staff knowledge of capabilityin space and time.
Maintenance units have motivatedSoldiers able to operate in austereenvironments using P4T3.Maintenanceleaders who rigorously analyze demand
signals prior to rotation have better
readiness rates. Units who empower
junior NCOs perform downed aircraft
and area defense better than the rest.
Those empowered NCOs exist in units
with focused leader development /certification programs.
Aircrews accept the austere operating
38

An AH-64D pilot from 2nd Battalion, 25th
Aviation Regiment prepares to conduct
deliberate attacks in support of 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.

environment, with minimal requests
to OCTs for adding a Green Beans
Café to “The Box,” and embrace lowlevel flight profiles. Crews leave JRTC
knowing that “old school and lowtech” works against the opposing force(OPFOR) radar systems. OPFOR
often struggle to acquire and track theattack or assault force inbound to theobjective and rely on human observers
and to their knowledge of the terrain to
identify and counter inbound assault/
attack aviation forces.

The “Bad”

The “bad” typically occurs “leftof crank” and begins in the militarydecision-making process (MDMP).
AvTFs fail to manage talent and time toensure the best possible staff processes,
manifested in poor mission analysis
and fighting products. OCTs often see
the XO/S3 delegate staffing actions toyoung officers lacking experience in the
mission set or operation and without
an example to use as a start point.
Aviation branch Majors often
struggle to think critically, anticipate
friction, and provide for subordinates’
development. Their failure to integrate
half of the battle staff and ignore thecontribution of our talented NCO
July 31, 2019

The “Ugly”

Aviation units are among the mostcommitted forces in the Army, withlimited dwell between deployments.
Those deployments require detailed
train-ups and often force commanders
to make decisions on what mission
essential tasks (METs) to train andpressure units to build collective task
proficiency in a short amount of time.
The need for a supported ground force
to build true MET proficiency adds
to the complexity. If home station
BCTs only execute company-level
Air Assaults, the CAB struggles tobuild readiness in assault helicopter
battalions. Divisions struggle to train
the deep fight outside the constructive
environment when artillery is unable tosource multiple battalions to conduct
Table XVIII alongside the attack
reconnaissance battalion (ARB) for
combined DIVARTY/CAB training.
CTCs replicate a Division-levelfight, with the BCT as the cornerstoneof the physical manifestation of thatenvironment. Within the live CTC
environment, the AvTF provides a
CAB’s complement of capability using
less than one third of the assets. AvTF
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

U.S. ARMY PHOTO COURTESY JRTC

corps is an example of battalion S3/XOs
at JRTC ‘doing’ MDMP but failingto lead the staff through the process
demanded by mission complexity.
DATE also requires detailed
synchronization between warfighting
functions and among subordinate
units of the AvTF, but staffs fail tobuild shared understanding throughproduction and dissemination offighting products. AvTF fighting
products are usually weak and do notdescribe the commander’s expected
tactical decision. The decision support
matrix (DSM) often lists “GO/NO
GO” criteria such as weather. The DSM
should describe the conditions required
to change from a phased- to continuous
attack, or when to re-prioritize loads on
the pickup zone.
Weak Battalion-level MDMP
results in subordinate units unable
to conduct troop leading procedures
to standard. Regardless of the order’squality, TLP completion directly
correlates to mission accomplishment
according to JRTC statistics. It seems
obvious, but units that brief, backbrief, and rehearse using written orders
succeed. Units reliant on folklore andPowerPoint slides fail to achieve results.

A platoon leader from 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division loads his Soldiers ontoa CH-47F from 3rd Bn., 10th Avn. Regt. during an air assault.

staffs are less familiar with aviation corecompetencies not typically assigned
to their organic battalion unless the
CAB manages talent well. The attack
recon battalion HQ will not execute a
battalion air assault as well as an assault
helicopter battalion (AHB), and the
AHB cannot organically execute adeliberate attack out of contact at the
ARB’s level of competence.
Long-term Battalion task organization comes at a cost to organic expertiseand places DATE readiness at risk, arisk currently mitigated by senior Army
headquarters through careful management of augmentation packages during rotations. Current mission requirements and historical precedence resultin suboptimal task force organization
and a BCT exposed to massed aviation
utilization at less intensity than desired
to build familiarity. BCT staffs exposedto the occasional AH-64 platoon deliberate attack in contact or company
air assault will not provide clear task
and purpose or assign battlespace to the
AvTF and reduce the effectiveness of
the AvTFs role in the BCT deep fight.

The Way Ahead

Leaders must leverage the goodto address the ‘bad’ during rigorous
home-station training plans developed
39

holistically within the CAB. Focused
staff training, hard force protection
exercises, and tactical decision-making
events like Warfighters provide the reps
needed to build readiness. Away fromhome station, the CAB must makethe most of opportunities, such as
4th CAB’s blended training to certify“How the Ivy Eagles Fight” for their
Division.
The ‘ugly’ takes time and enterpriselevel energy to address. FORSCOM
and the Army Staff see the challengebalancing current mission support with
LSCO readiness. Successful balancing
requires leaders at the operational
level and below to resource andsynchronize training at echelon. Thatsynchronization prevents prematurecollective training when individual
readiness does not support execution.
These challenges are not new. CALL
newsletters in the 1990s outline similar
challenges. We fought through them
then and will overcome them again.
One rotation at a time.
LTC Jason S. Davis is the senior aviation
trainer (A06) at the Joint ReadinessTraining Center ( JRTC) at Fort Polk,
LA. He commanded 2nd Battalion, 25th
Aviation Regiment and is a graduate of
the U.S. Army War College.
July 31, 2019

U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY OTIS WHITE

Special Focus u Simulation & Training
The Simulator Instructor Operator: Setting

Conditions for SuccessW

hat does a good home station
simulator program or facility
look like? It is a simple question thatsomehow defies common understanding. The USAACE Directorate of
Simulation’s (DOS) Simulation Development and Accreditation Division(SDAD) Helicopter Flight Simulator
Evaluators (HFSE) are often asked thisquestion during simulator accreditation
visits, which is the nexus of this article.
While the Army has invested a significant amount of resources into technicalsolutions, success is completely dependent upon the expertise of the person
assigned the specific mission to enable& realize the training device. In simple
terms, it takes a craftsman to wield thetools to produce a quality product.
From the SDAD’s HFSE’s perspective, the success of any simulation
program is the responsibility of the

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

By CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton

permanent party personnel assigned to
the facility, especially the instructor operators (I/O). The I/O is the key expert,
normally stationed at or near the flight
simulator, and is the most familiar withthe day to day operations. The working
relationship between the unit and the
instructor/operators can greatly assist
in the administration of the commander’s aircrew training program (ATP).

Simulator Employment

There has been a subtle shift in ownership and responsibility for simulator
employment over the past 15 years. In
the early 2000s, Army senior leadership
decided to discontinue regional simulation (full motion) centers and transition
to transportable devices. This decision
put the responsibilities of device manning and maintenance on the local tactical commander. Before the turn of the40

Instructor/operator training for the Longbow Crew
Trainer at Fort Rucker, AL, May 30, 2019, Fort
Rucker, AL.

century, the requirements to train an
I/O were usually obvious and certification programs were well documented.
The legacy full-motion Synthetic Flight
Training System (SFTS) with analog
cockpits posed more safety hazards suchas stairs, ramps, actuators, and locking gates. Today’s transportable devices
don’t pose the same safety threats andare equipped with intuitive I/O consoles
and operators are generally more familiar with many different computer functions. Because of these technologicaladvances, instructor pilot (IP) and I/Otraining and certification are sometimes
taken for granted or viewed as not asimportant as they were in the past.
July 31, 2019

Instructor/Operators

Regardless of the historical challenges noted above, it remains a clear
requirement that someone other thana military flight instructor operate thesynthetic device. Normally the unit IPs
are the primary trainer, but they are traditionally short in supply and are more
involved in ATP administration andreadiness level (RL) progression in theaircraft. To supplement the unit’s training efforts, I/Os are provided to ensure
the simulators are ready for training.
Every aviator is usually familiar with
the I/O at their duty station, but not
all are aware of what duties the I/O canactually perform. The acronym I/O (instructor/operator) is itself ambiguous.
At some installations the I/O is purely
a console operator, while at others, theI/O operates the device and provides
varying levels of instruction and sometimes even administers evaluations. I/O
responsibilities are usually based on theindividual’s training and background.
Hence a simulator operator may or may
not be an instructor. It is incumbent
upon the unit to clarify its I/O needs
and to what standard the I/O should betrained and evaluated. A good I/O canmake a huge impact on the development of an aviator and can rewardingly
supplement/complement the unit ATP.

Defining I/O Duties

Neither AR 95-1, nor TC 3.04-11
clearly define the duties or descriptionof the I/O. Although each Aircrew
Training Module has a Task (ACC5000): Operate a Flight Simulator
from Instructor’s Station, a tangible
standard is not defined. AR 95-1, paragraph 4-11.f. does state, “Commanders
working in coordination with Installation Management Commands (IMCOM) establish I/O responsibilities,
competencies, and requirements to support the aviation mission of the unit
designated to utilize the facilities.” Somepeople would argue that a clear I/O definition has been historically avoided inorder to provide the commander flexibility when determining their homestation needs; others would stress lackof clarity enables a lower funding support option. In the past, commanders
sometimes used unit trainers (UT) as
console operators to train selected tasks.
Mission requirements at some installations dictate the use of contractor I/Os,
while other simulation centers choose
to utilize DOD civilians; normally GS
1712 Training Specialists. Both posiARMY AVIATION Magazine

tions must be managed IAW AR95-1,
paragraph 4-11.f. The position description is the key to meeting the local commander’s mission requirements.
At USAACE only the AH-64
Instructor Pilot Course (IPC) has aformal I/O block of instruction includedin the course management plan (CMP).
The other airframe IPs must rely on
the training that they will receive when
they arrive at their duty station. Due tothe current OPTEMPO and readiness
requirements this training may or may
not occur and the military IP may
never learn of the full capability of their
SFTS. Hence the need for effective
communication with IMCOM.

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The initial transportable SFTS fielding concept in the early 2000s delivered
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EASIER TO CARRY”
staffing and maintenance. This transition to IMCOMs has surfaced difficulties at some Army installations. For example, in the past DOS has been calledby brigade commanders and asked why
they didn’t have a particular airframe
I/O assigned to their post. These typesof situations dictate adherence to AR
95-1, paragraph 4-11.f. and the needfor effective communication between
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the limitations (accreditation memorandum) and training capabilities of theirindividual airframe SFTS in order toeffectively administer the ATP.
In closing, a good tool in the handsof a poor craftsman will not yield
good results. The craftsman must fully
understand the capability of the tool.
CW5 (Ret.) Jack Bartol (AH-64D/E
SP/IE) and CW4 (Ret.) Wade Boynton(CH47) are both aircraft subject matter
experts at the U.S. Army Aviation Centerof Excellence Directorate of Simulation, Ft.
Rucker, AL, responsible for DOS’ global
mission of simulator
accreditation and providing expertise on thedevelopment of simulator upgrades and future
simulation capabilities.
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July 31, 2019

ALL PHOTOS: 160TH SOAR COURTESY PHOTO

Special Focus u Simulation & Training

Field of (Simulated) Dreams
By CW5 Michael J. HanggeF

Top left: LASAR Simulator – Few helicopters are as maneuverable as the A/
MH6 and even fewer units fly their fleet as close to the limit as the 160th
SOAR (ABN). The LASAR Simulator emulates the flight conditions of the A/
MH6 helicopter.

light simulators are the impenetrable tents of our collective
childhood where even the most vicious bears cannot hurt
us. They are a safe place to practice dangerous maneuvers
and morph rote memorization into applicable knowledge.
They provide an environment where the worst conditions
can be replicated without risk, maneuvers can be trained to
proficiency, and crews can gain confidence and experience.
The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment(Airborne) has five of the world’s most advanced Combat
Mission Simulators (CMSs) integrated together on thesame acreage. They are the most capable and highest fidelity
helicopter simulators ever built with a uniquely tailored task
list twice the size of any other.

Top right: LASAR Pic – Rain, sleet, or snow – if we fight in it, then we train
in it too.

Training System (MRETS) was built as a Field of Dreams
proof of concept to integrate semi-automated enemy systems
as well as imitate near-peer capabilities to simulate operations
against virtual enemies replicating real world threats.
‘Longhaul connectivity,’ both inside and outside our fenceline, will soon connect our simulated federation to the greater
military enterprise. And we are now experimenting with VR/
AR technologies which retired regimental simulations officer
Will Ellison believes will “soon permeate every aspect ofcrew training to enable full crew participation in iterative andmission training in both standalone and distributed modes.”Dan Lynch, PEO-STRI Simulations Lead Engineer,adds that “VR/AR technology may allow crews to sit in a‘virtual cockpit’ used for collective training at a significant
cost savings, allowing crews to interoperate with other VR
stations/CMSs/CFTDs to enhance the training capabilitiesof all devices. The VR/AR training stations could also be
packed-up and used as mission rehearsal devices to allow
crews to fly their routes in 3D environments before executing
their actual mission.”

Keeping Current – A Team Effort

The Night Stalker Simulations Team has accomplished somany great things that only a small snapshot could fit in thispublication. Every simulations tool from DeskTop Trainer to
CMS is currently concurrent with, and will soon be ahead of
our aircraft, allowing crews to train in the box before they fly inthe air. Our motion systems are finely tuned to simulate how
closely we operate to the limits because few units fly their fleet
like Night Stalkers do. Our visual environment is so immersive that even the most impressive Virtual/Augmented Reality(VR/AR) technologies may not be able to provide significant
improvements. Our Special Operations Forces Planning, Rehearsal, and Execution Preparation (SOFPREP) team builds
background databases to utilize semi-automated forces, creates mission rehearsal builds to support deployed personnel,
and works in simulated reality to create precise, geo-specific,
3D visualization databases used in the CMSs and standalone
systems for mission planning/rehearsals of planned or shortnotice missions. Our current Mission Rehearsal and Exercise
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Taking a Fresh Look

Yet the Regiment is never satisfied with just ‘the best’ because there are always ways to be better. Right now, helicopters
are straddling the edge of a long-anticipated technological leap
to make ‘90 knot helicopters’ as antiquated as Igor’s fedora. And
42

July 31, 2019

flight simulators are perched patiently for that same trust fall.
So, we are taking a fresh look at everything we do, how
we can do it better, and working to implement the most
revolutionary new distributed training program utilizing themost technologically advanced simulator systems. Our vision
is an all-encompassing federated simulations environment of
total and complete immersion from aircraft maintenance toplanning, briefing to rehearsal, and execution to debriefing –JTACs to jumpmasters, medics to evasion/resistance, drivers
to shooters… We envision wooden walled planning areas withdirt floors and countdown calendars; fully-simulated TOCs inship compartments with storms raging over the thrummingof diesel engines; Flight Leads meeting their ground force
peers in fully-accurate virtual buildups of the target area withweather and enemy forces; and yanking mission crews out ofsimulators to be worked on by medics, worked over by SERE
specialists, or tossed into hurricane waters. All of this will
ensure that the first time a crew is thrust into any situation
will not be the first time they have experienced it.

Keeping It Real

Jeff Stafford, Simulations SME, suggests we can nolonger simply “throw on a headset and climb into a climatecontrolled simulator just to log time. We must increase all
aspects of reality and difficulty by making our simulators
less sterile. We must ‘dirty up’ the simulations environment
by matching extreme simulator temperatures with mission
conditions; inserting automated ‘non-playing’ personnel andvehicles; lighting billboards and traffic lights; and pumping
in the smells of jet fuel, cordite, and third-world funk.”
The MRETS is the first step towards this dream and, as it
continues to mature, all-encompassing mission rehearsal andexecution centers will be perfectly poised to replace singularly
tasked simulators. We are currently researching numerous newtechnologies and capabilities to uncover the most advancedmeans to accomplish our lofty goals. We are also highly
conscious that, despite the many impressive new technologies
emerging every day, all technology will eventually falter while
plain paper still excels – it is a fine line to advance without
losing touch with the basics.
Of course, money is always an immense hurdle, but theeventual cost savings of this vision would be tremendous. Chris
Conrad, owner of Veraxx, estimates that “simulations cost abouta fifth of the price, operate at about a nickel on the dollar, andproduce more than six times as many available flight hours per
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Top left: The Beginning – Entire simulator computer rooms were once filledwith the technology now available in most teenagers’ cell phones.
Top right: MJH60L Simulator – The MH60L Combat Mission Simulator was
so advanced for the 90s that you could forget it was a simulator.

month as an actual aircraft.” But operational cost comparisonsalone barely scratch the true savings potential. Cutting back on,
but never eliminating, actual training exercises would pay forthis vision just in TDY expenses.
The most critical aspect of simulations training, however,will never be the simulators themselves. The actual tool used
isn’t necessarily as important as the knowledge of how to accomplish the task and it is far too simplistic to believe better fidelity alone equals a better simulator or better training.
Too often, the training is adapted to the available tools rather
than the right tools being developed for the best training. A
well-designed training program is an absolute necessity forcontinual evolution and improvement throughout every spectrum of training to remain ahead of potential enemy efforts.

The True Value

Simulators have always been the backbone of initial andcontinuation flight training focused on basic flight skills andemergency procedures, especially as aircraft become more
complex and cognitive. The majority of training efforts must
focus on creating the ‘expert aviator’, however distributed
simulated training is now capable of also making crews who arehighly adept at employing those aircraft as part of an entire task
force. By evaluating how to best learn, we can learn how to bestteach, and we can then design better simulation experiences.
“The true value of simulated training cannot be measured
in dollars spent or lost, it can only be measured by the livesof husbands and wives, fathers, sons, mothers, and daughters
who have been saved by the proficiency, experience, andconfidence provided in a simulated environment of complete
safety.” – Joe McManus, MH60 Simulations SME.
Special thanks go to the amazing Night Stalker Simulations Team of SMEs, coordinators, instructors, RSOs, PMs,
SOFPREP, and vendors who do the heavy lifting every day.
CW5 Michael J. Hangge is currently assigned as
the 160th/SIMO Mission Planning, Simulations,and Future Technologies Branch Chief. He can becontacted at michael.hangge@socom.mil.
43

July 31, 2019

Feature uArmy Aviation in Army Futures
Command

U.S. ARMY GRAPHIC

By COL Michael J. Best and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi

Figure 1. U.S. Army Futures Command Task Organization with AviationO

and Modular Open System Approach (MOSA). The FVL
CFT is also tracking closely the development and fielding of
Improved Turbine Engine (ITE) as a complementary enabling
capability for current and future forces.

n June 4, 2018, the Honorable Mark T. Esper, Secretaryof the Army, approved Headquarters, Department of
the Army, General Order Number 2018-10, establishing
Army Futures Command with a full operating capability
date of July 1, 2019. Similar to 40-plus years ago when
General Starry’s Air Land Battle doctrine created the mostfeared combined arms Army in the world, the Army Futures
Command is now charged with leading the Army’s futureforce modernization enterprise to respond to new multidomain security challenges.
AFC establishes unity of command and effort by consolidating the modernization process under one command. The Armyleadership is directing AFC to turn ideas into actions throughexperimenting, prototyping, improving acquisition businessprocesses, and pursuing appropriate commercial options. Most
importantly, AFC must directly incorporate requirements fromthe warfighter and reduce the time to deliver those requirements in order to maintain the Army’s competitive advantage.
So how does the Army Aviation Enterprise fit within thisnew command structure and new paradigm? Army Aviation
is well represented and a part of every aspect in the new AFC
Command structure to determine and develop greater reach,lethality and protection solutions for the future (see Figure 1.).

CCDC

In the Combat Capability Development Command(CCDC), all the research centers and the Army ResearchLaboratory are combined under a single organization. Of
course, the Aviation Enterprise continues to have first rate
support for aeronautical science and technology from the
CCDC Aviation and Missile Center at Redstone Arsenal,
Alabama. They are involved with all the CFT and non-CFT
aviation efforts developing and coordinating research anddevelopment activities.

Combat Systems

Combat Systems has the responsibility to refine, engineer,and develop the solutions to meet identified requirements. The
Program Executive Office, Aviation (PEO AVN), working
with Combat Systems and other PEOs across the office of theAssistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics andTechnology), continues to provide the procurement processes
and support structure for delivery of aviation materielsolutions. PEO AVN established the Program Manager for
FVL to work efforts with the FVL CFT.

Cross-Functional Teams

One of the first efforts established by the Army seniorleaders was the establishment of cross functional teams(CFTs). The CFTs in general terms are small, laser focused
staffs designed to bring the top priorities to the field quickly
to enable multi-domain operations (MDO), the Army’s new
operating concept. The Future Vertical Lift (FVL) CFT locatedat Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, coordinates the requirements
generation, science and technology (S&T) initiatives, andprogram management (PM) office activities for the FVL Linesof Effort: Future Advanced Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA),
Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), Advanced
UAS (AUAS)(includes brigade combat team (BCT) Future
Tactical UAS (FTUAS) and Air Launched Effects (ALE)),ARMY AVIATION Magazine

FCC

Finally, the Futures and Concepts Center (FCC) is
responsible to identify and prioritize development needs
and opportunities for the Army. FCC, formerly known as
the Army Capabilities Integration Center (ARCIC), is still
located at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. FCC is creating
more horizontal and vertical synchronization of concepts,
experimentation, and integration of capabilities acrosswarfighting functions and overall capabilities. FCC leads theconceptual transformation of the Army into MDO. In the
44

July 31, 2019

Figure 2. U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Organization

new Future Force Modernization Enterprise, Army materielrequirements come from one of three sources: CFTs, Capability
Development and Integration Directorates (CDIDs), or
Sprint IPTs. Sprint IPTs are like mini-CFTs created for a
specific, short period of intense requirements determinationand development based on an emerging operational need.

CDID

As a subordinate of FCC, all the centers of excellence(CoE) CDIDs provide proponent warfighting material
requirements and priority recommendations through theirrespective CoE commanding generals, who remain the
branch force modernization proponent. The Aviation CDID
still resides at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence(ACoE), Ft. Rucker, Alabama. The Aviation CDID retains the
responsibility to develop concepts, conduct experimentation
and analysis, and document requirements for all aviation needs.
The CDID is the Materiel Developer for all conventional
force Army Aviation materiel capabilities. The Aviation CDID
realigned into three subordinate organizations: Concepts,
Experiments and Analysis Directorate (CEAD); Aviation
Platforms – Requirements Determination Directorate – (APRDD); and Aviation Enablers – Requirements Determination
Directorate – (AE-RDD). Together, we are a leaner, smaller
version of our previous CDID structure focused on anddedicated to developing the future Aviation force with theneeded capabilities to fight effectively in MDO.

FFID

CDID’s partner in fielding and integrating capabilities
is a new/old TRADOC organization under a new banner:
the Fielded Force Integration Directorate (FFID). FFID
retains the TRADOC Capability Manager (TCM) offices ofReconnaissance/Attack and Lift, a new office proposed as theTRADOC Program Office (TPO) Aviation Enablers, theThreat Office, and the Aviation Survivability Development
and Tactics (ASDAT) Team.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

OPFD

The Organization, Personnel and Force Development(OPFD) Directorate, responsible for Army Aviation force
design and personnel proponency policies, is a separate
reporting directorate to the deputy commander, ACoE. The
TCMs will retain their traditional duties as user representatives
for currently fielded capabilities and the responsibility forexecuting testing and fielding new capabilities as they emerge.
Together, the CDID, FFID, and OPFD will be responsiblefor developing and integrating the doctrine, organization,
training, material, leadership and education, personnel,
facilities, and policy (DOTMLPF-P) solutions for Army
Aviation. The CDID focuses on future requirements, theFFID focuses on current and near-term capabilities, andOPFD spans the lifecycle of formation design and aviation
Soldier development. (See Figure 2.)
No matter the organizational structure of the Aviation
Enterprise, the CDID, FFID, and OPFD together are
dedicated to developing and fielding the best capabilities needed
for Army Aviation. Collectively, we continue to represent the
Aviation Enterprise and are responsible for significant nationaltreasure to provide over-matching third dimension reach,lethality, and protection in support of our ground commanders.
All three organizations are well partnered with HQDA, theArmy Futures Command, Training and Doctrine Command,
Futures and Concepts Center, the FVL CFT, Aviation andMissile Center, PEO AVN, and all of the other organizations,staffs and commands that make up our Aviation team toprovide America’s finest resource, The American Soldier, withthe capability to win on the next battlefield.
Above the Best!
COL Michael J. Best is the director and Mr. Glenn A. Rizzi
the deputy director of the Aviation Capability Development
Integration Directorate (CDID) of the Futures and Concepts
Center, U.S. Army Futures Command, located at Ft. Rucker, AL.
45

July 31, 2019

Feature u

Aviation Systems Reorganizes
By COL Johnathan Frasier and Ms. JoAnna Wright

ALL GRAPHICS – U.S. ARMY AMSA GRAPHIC

Previously under Aviation Systems:

Figure 1. Aviation Systems organizational structure of product offices prior to reorganization.

I

am proud to announce the Aviation
Systems Project Office has undergone an internal reorganization and is
now the Aviation Mission Systems andArchitecture (AMSA) Project Office.
AMSA is an Aviation project officelocated within Program Executive
Office Aviation (PEO Aviation) under
the leadership of MG Thomas Todd at
Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
AMSA has reorganized its operational structure in order to better support
U.S. Army and PEO Aviation priorities,
optimize alignment and execution ofcrosscutting capabilities, and align talent
to better serve mission success during aperiod of declining budgets.
In late 2018, Aviation Systems conducted an organizational study asking
one question: Does the Aviation Systems organization need to change, andif so, how? The objective of this study
was to consider how a realignment ofour current structure might enable ourorganization to work more efficiently
despite the challenges project offices
face due to budget changes, changing
sustainment resources, shifts in workload, and contract requirements. The
goal of a reorganization would enable

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Aviation Systems to provide the best
support to the Army Mission, ourpeople, and provide our product offices(PdO) with the necessary authority andcontrol to complete their missions.

AMSA as Aviation Systems waspreviously organized into five distinct
PdOs and a combined portfolio of 49
product lines. Figures 1 and 2 show ourorganization’s realignment.
These changes require the PdOs
to work across organizational lines
to execute their responsibilities. The
reorganization of our internal structures
allows the AMSA workforce to operate
as a fully integrated organization where
product offices depend on each otherand AMSA headquarters to achieve
mission success.
As Project Manager for AMSA, it
is my intention that our Soldiers arenever in a fair fight and have the ability
to win our nation’s wars. To achieve thisintent, my focus is always on the Soldier
first and foremost. I work continuously
to develop a professional workforce
that extends trust inside and outside
the organization, embodies the Army
Values, and is committed to excellence.
With these tasks in mind it was, andstill is, critical to ensure the incredible
talent that existed in Aviation Systems
carry over fully into AMSA to provide
the best support to our mission.

Now under Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture:

Figure 2. Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture organizational structure following reorganization.
Five Product Offices realigned into four.
46

July 31, 2019AMSA’s portfolio includes 49
distinct product lines which are now
realigned under the four PdOs. The
tireless work put into the organizational
study ensured no product lines were
dropped and talent and personnel wererealigned to shift the workload toward
a balance that enables all personnel tofocus on the Soldiers and the mission.
The successful implementation ofthis reorganization means AMSA
can provide focused and responsive
stakeholder alignment with the Armyand PEO Aviation’s priorities. Witha fully engaged workforce, skills arealigned to the products and processes,
so they can contribute at a high level tomission success.
New organization and product officenames mean new logos as well; ourPdOs are currently in the design phaseand will announce new logos in thenext edition of ARMYAVIATION.
COL Johnathan Frasier is the project
manager for PEO Aviation’s Aviation
Mission Systems & Architecture Project
Office, and Ms. JoAnna Wright provides
communications-operations support on
AMSA headquarters’ Special Staff. Bothare located at Redstone Arsenal, AL.

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47

July 31, 2019

Reprinted from the August/September 1979 Issue of ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Historical Perspective u 40th Anniversary of the Black Hawk First Unit Equipped

A GREAT DAY
for the ARMY and The 101st!
By General John R. Gutherie, Commander, USA Materiel Development and Readiness CommandG

ood morning, Ladies andGentle­men and members of “D”
Company, 158th Aviation Battalion.
This is, indeed, a great day for the
Army, for American industry andfor the 101st Airborne Division (Air
Assault). It is also, for me, a personal
and professional pleasure and honor
to participate in another ceremonymarking the a­chievement of a major
milestone in the fielding of one of the“Big Five,” and to represent not one
but two Chiefs of Staff of the Army
who would, except for press­ing duties,
be here today. They did, however, ask
me to express both their regrets at
not being able to come and their greatsatisfaction that we have achieved thismilestone in the Black Hawk program.
Too often we hear it said thatyou can’t put your finger on who’s
responsible for what happens – goodor bad – to a program. Normally, thisis caused by the lack of continuityof people in the job. It is a personal
pleasure, therefore, for me to pointout that there are at least four of us
here – Bill Crawford, Gerry Tobias,
Dick Kenyon, and I – on whom you
can put the finger.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

I’m proud to say that I was Directorof Development in the Office of Chief,Re­search and Development when thedem­
onstrator engine program began,
Deputy Commanding General for
Materiel Ac­
quisition at AMC when
the UTTAS re­quest for proposal wasissued and the program began, that I
contributed per­sonally to structuring
the program (we had no engineeringdevelopment phase}, and that I wasagain back in a responsible position
to help Bill, Gerry, and Dick throughtheir trials of initial production anddeliveries. Now, Dick will be leaving
us, at an appropriate time in that thisdevelopment phase is now completewith the deliveries of these first
production models to a TOE unit,
but the rest of us will still be here tosee how well his integrated logistics
support plan works.

Jim Thorpe’s son, Carl, we named the
UTTAS the Black Hawk. This morning represents another milestone in the
Army/Industry effort to provide thetotal Army with modern equipment toenable it to meet the threat of the 80s.
We are fielding the first production
models of a modern, much needed
troop­
carrying helicopter of greatly
increased capabilities to a regular
TOE active Army unit, “D” Company
158th Aviation Battalion, the Ghost
Riders. In so doing, we not only fulfill
a commitment made 14 months
ago when the Black Hawk colors
were presented to this unit upon its
designation as the Army’s first Black
Hawk Company, but also initiate aprocess which will see some 48 new
systems fielded over the next 5 years.

Another first for the 101st!
So much for such reminiscing. Thisis, by any measurement, a truly historic
day for the Army and for the 101st
Airborne Division (Air Assault). Another first for the 101st! Like that day
21 months ago when, with the help of48

July 31, 2019

The two aircraft you have seen in flightare symbolic of the culmination of many
hard years of effort by General Electric
Sikorsky Aircraft, their sub-contractors
in 43 states, and the government. Those
years, I assure you, were sometimes very
eventful for all of us who believed -who
knew - that the Army had to have a
new troop transport helicopter which
could survive on the battlefield of today
and tomorrow. I said we are fulfilling apledge to “D” Company. We are doing
so despite the crash of a prototype in
May 1978. That the program despite an
initial two-month delay, is now just one
month off its original schedule. Thisis a tribute to everyone involved in its
development and production.
A firm and steady handIn particular, I would like to acknowledge the very firm and steadyhand which guided the Black Hawk
program through this period – *COL
Richard Kenyon, who, as I said, with
the initial Black Hawk fielding almost
completed, leaves the program. Because of his outstanding accomplishments, COL Kenyon was awarded the1978 Secretary of the Army’s Award
for Project Management. He leaves the
program in good shape and for once,
we are making the transition of PM’s
at a rational point - when the system ismaking its own transition from development to production and support.
Unquestionably, Black Hawk is amajor improvement over the 20 year
faithful workhorse of the Army, theUH-1. Black Hawk is our first truesquad carrying heli­copter with greatly improved survivability, reliability,
and maintainability. ( Just how greatly
improved will be something for “D”
Company to demonstrate.) It is not
too much to say that Black Hawk is thefirst Army aircraft designed, developed,
and produced specifically with the soldier in mind, from the combat squadmembers to the mechanics who willappreciate the modular concept used
for the T700 engine and other aircraft
parts. I might add that this aircraft is sohighly regarded that, in addition to its
primary role as a troop carrier, it is also
being considered as the basic airframe
for both Army and Navy electronics
equipment.
Most of you know that Black Hawk
is already being used at Fort Rucker for
training, and I’m happy to say that we’ve
had “good vibes” from there. The pilots
have been elated by its performance and
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

handling qualities, and I am confident
that your experience with Black Hawk
will be the same.
“D” Company is, I am sure, proud tobe the first operational unit to receive,
maintain, and operate the Black Hawk.
From a review of its history, I doubtthat the Army could have found a
better unit to which to entrust thisnew aerial combatant. “D” Company’srecord in war - 2 Presidential Unit
Citations, 2 Valorous Unit Awards, 9Vietnam campaigns - and in peach - ontraining exercises and in civilian relief- bespeaks the courage, dedication,and unselfishness which have always
marked the American soldier.
As I looked, upon our arrival, fromthe men and women of “D” Company,
158th Aviation Battalion, to this helicopter, I was struck anew by the for­tuitous circumstances which unite
Black Hawk and the “Ghost Riders” forI understand that the latter have chosen as their unofficial song a ballad ofmany years ago entitled “Ghost Riders
In The Sky.”The pursuit of lasting peace
Like the Ghost Riders of the song,“D” Company’s modern Ghost Riders,mounted on the Black Hawk, are also
engaged, with the rest of this proud
Division and all of our forces, on whatmust seem at times an equally endlesschase - the pursuit of lasting peace inour world. Their mission - our mission- is, by being ready, to protect that peaceby deterring war; but if that proves impossible, to fight to defend and protect
our national interests - and to win.
Let me, in that spirit, close byrepeating for the benefit of “D”
Company and all those who will use
this fine aircraft what Carl Thorpe, sonof the great Jim Thorpe and memberof the Sauk Indian tribe from whichsprang the great Indian Chief whosename this helicopter bears, said ofBlack Hawk twenty-one months ago
when it was christened:
To this bird we say “Go to the skies,
To the clouds, andChallenge the thunder.
Bring upon your strong wings
The peace of Black Hawk.”
I would only add that, God willing, we
trust that peace - and not war - will
indeed be the Ghost Riders and Black
Hawk’s destiny.
49

July 31, 2019

AAAA

u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORTAAAA Chapter Affairs By LTC (Ret.) Jan Drabczuk

I greatly appreciate the support from the Phantom Corps Chapter for authoring and sharing this information to our membership.

The Phantom Corps Chapter

Fort Hood is also home to Hood Army
Airfield and Grey Army Airfield. The
Phantom Corps Chapter has been
serving and supporting aviation professionals and their families on Fort Hoodfor decades. The chapter ensures that
this tight knit community has a voice
before senior leadership, government,
and encourages the Army Aviation
profession. The Phantom Corps Chapter currently has approximately 300
members and will soon become a super
chapter thanks to the engagement ofaviation leaders throughout Fort Hood.
Fort Hood History
Fort Hood was named after John Bell
Hood, a famous Confederate Army
General who commanded the Texas
Brigade during the American Civil
War. In 1861, John Hood resigned his
commission in the Union Army to join
the Confederate Army where he wasquickly promoted to Brigadier General.
A leader who always took the fight tothe enemy, General Hood was placedin command of the Army of Tennessee
and aggressively opposed Union General Tecumseh Sherman during theinfamous “March to the Sea.” Today,
Fort Hood is comprised of 340 square
miles. The post stretches 26 miles fromeast to west and 24 miles from northto south. Live-fire exercises take place
on 50 ranges and 2 scaled-down ranges
located throughout the posts maneuverarea. Fort Hood is approximately 60
miles from the state capital of Austin,and borders the cities of Killeen to theeast, Copperas Cove to the west and
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Gatesville to the north. Fort Hood is“The Great Place.”
Leading the Way
In early 2019 the Phantom Corps
Chapter was reinvigorated by theaddition of new chapter officers from
1st Air Cavalry Brigade and 166th
Aviation Brigade. The goal of the
Chapter President is to have chapter
leadership from officers and enlisted aswell as current and retired military, that
represent the great variety of different
aviation units and assignments in andaround Fort Hood. The current chapter
leadership includes Chapter President:
CSM(R) Doug Greene who retired
from the Air Cav, Treasurer: Joann
Courtland (former CW2) from US
Army Operation Test Command, Vice
President of Awards: CW5 Immanuel
DelaCruz, the Senior Warrant Officerof 166th Aviation Brigade, and theVice President for Membership: CW2
Cristobal Quiroz from 1ACB.
Supporting Aviation
Readiness for the Future,
and Beyond
The Chapter has instituted monthly
chapter meetings with special guest
speakers planned quarterly. Having arobust military community around Ft.
Hood, speakers are planned from the
Army Futures Command, US Army
Test Command, Aviation Test Directorate, Fort Hood Garrison Command,and the Aviation Center of Excellence.
The Phantom Corps Chapter plans tohost three events in 2019. The first is
50

CHAPTER GRAPHICThe Phantom Corps Chapter is located on Fort
Hood and supports the aviation professionals andfamilies of the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade (1ACB), 166th
Aviation Brigade, 15th Military Intelligence Brigade,
US Army Operation Test Command, Aviation Test
Directorate, and Army Futures Command.

a planned visit to Army Futures Command in Austin, Texas. The second will
be a family-style golf scramble that will
include an 18-hole golf tournament,a driving range social, and a putt-putt
tournament. The final event of 2019will be an AAAA formal that all theaviation units, aviation professionals, andaviation support on Fort Hood will be
invited to attend. The Phantom Corps
Chapter will be using the proceeds fromthese events to give back in scholarships,
recognitions, and other incentives toaviation unit members and their families within the chapter. These events will
network, support, and recognize not justthe aviation professionals in uniform, butalso their spouses and family members.
Summary
It is good to see the Phantom Corps
Chapter gaining momentum at Ft.
Hood. Chapter growth and monthly/quarterly chapter events will help thechapter provide a strong membershipbase. This will allow the chapter to also
grow its support to Soldiers and theirfamilies in the Ft. Hood area.
Feel free to contact me if you needhelp for your Chapter, Executive
Board support, would like your chapter
featured in the AAAA magazine orto obtain clarification of National
procedures. I look forward to working
with you and supporting AAAA.
LTC (Ret.) Jan S. Drabczuk
AAAA VP for Chapter Affairs
jan.drabczuk@quad-a.org
July 31, 2019

AAAA

NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u

CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO

Bluegrass Chapter
Recognizes Returning
AviatorOnce again, CPT Ron Shashy is back in
uniform to serve his country after a 24-year
break in service. He is currently assigned
to 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade with the
Kentucky National Guard and flying UH-60L
Black Hawks. He has invested in the AAAA
Bluegrass Chapter scholarship program tohelp others with a $5,000 donation; AAAA
helped him with scholarships in 1995 &1996 while he pursued his medical degree.
The chapter recognized CPT Shashy for his
extremely generous contribution.

The chapter hosted the Vlasics’ Classic
Bass Fishing Tournament on April 15, 2019at Lake Guntersville, AL. Program Executive
Office, Military Deputy, COL Robert Barrie
was on hand and took part in the presentationof awards. Organized by Tod Glidewell, VP
Veterans Affairs, and Leon Hite, VP Enlisted
Affairs, over 60 people from AAAA chapters
across Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia andAlabama braved windy conditions to attend.
And this year an anonymous donor sponsoredmembers of “Heroes on the Water” (HOW)
and TVC AAAA staff partnered to sponsor
wounded warriors to fish the event whichconcluded with Laura & Jack Bequetteproviding a Jambalaya and Brats luncheon.

Pictured left to right COL John Fraiser,
Blake Douglas & COL Robert Barrie with thewinning catch from the boater division; and,CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO

SoCal Chapter Golf
Outing and Quarterly
Meeting

The Southern California Chapter held theirsecond quarter meeting on June 1, 2019at the Fiddlers Green pub patio on theLos Alamitos Army Airfield, Los Alamitos,
California. Pictured in front of a recently
restored Huey, UH-1 M-model gun ship
are some chapter members and officers
including: (far left) CSM Ron Cabrera, VP
Enlisted/Awards; LTC Tom Lasser, Sr. (3d fromleft) VP; 2d from right LTC John Hendrickson,
President; and 3d from right, Mr. Mike Letson,
VP membership. The meeting was precededby the chapter’s annual scholarship fundraising golf outing held at the Seal Beach
Navy golf course in Cypress, CA.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Left to right – Bubba White, Yulista (sponsorof Big Fish); Mark Cory, Big Fish Boater Div.;Dan Hardy, Kayak Big Fish; and Mike Key,
Yulista Big Fish Sponsor.
A special thanks to the sponsors formaking the fishing tournament possible:
TVC AAAA, Boeing, Boenker Hill, Defense
Enterprise Solutions, Radiance, PAE, Parker,
Quantitech, Big Oh’s, People Tec, 82nd
Airborne Association, Screaming Eagle
Aviation Association and Yulista.

Want to change your AAA A
Chapter Affiliation ?
No Problem !
Call 203-268-2450
51

ORDER OF ST. MICHAEL
and OUR LADY OF LORETOINDUCTEES
Black Knight Chapter

CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO

Tennessee Valley
Chapter Fishing Tourney

National AAAA Secretary MG (Ret.) Wally
Golden (left), together with Black Knights
Chapter president, COL Richard Melnyk,
induct MAJ Walter Thomas (center left) and
MAJ John Wlasniewski into the Bronze
Honorable Order of St. Michael at the U.S.
Military Academy, West Point, NY on April 25,
2019. Both individuals were recognized fortheir mentorship to the cadets and service tothe chapter as they prepare for change of duty.
Thomas, who served as chapter secretary
and an instructor in the Department of
Physical Education, will move to Hawaii as thebattalion aviation officer for 2-25th Infantry;
and Wlasniewski, the chapter treasurer andregimental executive officer, 2nd Regt., U.S.
Corps of Cadets, USMA, heads to Europe andthe 12th Cbt. Avn. Bde.

CHAPTER PHOTOS BY SHERRY L.DORNERAAAA Chapter News

Tennessee Valley Chapter

LTC Rod Turner, product manager for
Infrared Countermeasures is inducted into
the Silver Honorable Order of St. Michael bychapter president Gary Nenninger during a
ceremony at LogiCore Event Hall in Huntsville,
AL on May 23, 2019. Turner was recognized
for managing the current ASE portfolio of
Infrared Countermeasures: Advanced Threat
Infrared Countermeasure (ATIRCM) andCommon Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM).
Continued on Page 55

July 31, 2019

AAAA

u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORTAAAA Membership Update By CW4 Becki Chambers

The Membership CornerMy husband, Greg, is always asking me to keep
this question in mind as I perform the duties

of Vice President of Membership: Why should people

One of the many reasons thatcomes to mind is the statementthat “Professionals join professionalorganizations.” But you might beasking yourself why is that true? One
person that can answer this question is
CW3 (Ret.) Becky Pinckney.
Becky first joined the Army in1994. She was attending college at
Austin Peay State University near Ft.
Campbell, KY, and, in her words, “theArmy just seemed cool.” After initiallyjoining the Reserves, she switched to
Active Duty in order to travel more andto change her MOS. She first enlisted
as a personnel records specialist before
becoming an air traffic controller.
While on active duty Becky wasan air traffic controller for the first
10 years stationed at Ft. Rucker, AL,
Germany, and Korea. She became
an air traffic and airspace manager
warrant officer for her last 12 years,
stationed at Ft. Rucker, AL, and Ft.
Hood, TX, with deployments to Iraq
and Afghanistan. She culminatedher career as an instructor/training
developer. Becky retired in 2019 and is
now a training developer for PM A3S(formerly PM ATC) for Tactical Air
Traffic Control Systems.
Becky has been a member of AAAA
for over 10 years. In addition, she has
also been an active member of theUnited States Army Warrant Officer
Association for over 11 years. She is a
Lifetime Member of USAWOA andserved as the secretary for The Abovethe Best Silver Chapter, Ft. Rucker, AL
for the last 2 years.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

I asked Becky to share her thoughts
on why she believes it’s important tojoin a professional organization. She
summed up her reply perfectly in one
sentence: “Professional organizations
are a platform for Soldiers to voice
opinions, learn the near long-termchanges occurring in the Army,volunteer for great organizations, meet
Soldiers and Officers from all branches
and places all while serving thecommunity in which they are living.”
Additionally, Becky believes that every military leader needs to remember
where they came from and continue togrow. “Never be too big to admit yourfaults and continue to learn from everyone around you.” Becky has no regrets
about retirement as she made numerous
acquaintances along the way, a great dealof friends, and gained a handful of family members. She will continue to be active in the local chapters of both AAAA
and the Warrant Officer Association.
Like Becky said, networking,knowledge sharing, and leadership
opportunities are all great reasons
to join a professional organization.
AAAA chapter meetings can help
facilitate these reasons: from guest
speakers at the meetings, to developing
leadership skills as an elected chapter
officer. Ultimately, being involved ina professional organization fosters
the development of relationships thatallow you to learn and grow in yourprofession.
Did you know that there is a joint
Warrant Officer Association/AAAA
membership available? Visit www.

52

PERSONAL PHOTO FROM BECKY PINCKNEY

join AAAA?

CW3 (Ret.) Becky Pinckney and her son, Jaylon
Porter, at her retirement ceremony.

usawoa.org and select “online” store. As
you scroll down, you will see the joint
membership option.
By the time you read this article,
we will have finished the Spring
Fever Membership Contest. I lookforward to revealing the winners in
next month’s magazine. This contest isjust another way to help us reach ourgoal of 20K by 2020. We’ve made great
strides in the last year towards reachingthat goal, and the momentum keeps
building. Besides these specific contests
we keep running, please think of eachday as a recruiting day. Ask yourself
every day, who can I ask to join AAAA
today? Make it your goal to sign up aminimum of one new member every
month. Remember, anyone that has aninterest in Army Aviation is eligible tojoin. And remember, the top recruiterfor each month, with a minimum of 10
new members signed up in that month,
will receive $100 from AAAA!

CW4 Becki Chambers
AAAA Vice President for Membership

July 31, 2019

AAAA

NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u

New AAAALife Members

Aloha Chapter
LTC Kacie Lee
Arizona Chapter
LTC William F. Hipple, Jr. Ret
Badger Chapter
COL Larry R. Boehme, Ret.
Central Florida Chapter
LTC Thomas E. Rountree, Ret.
COL Delloyd Voorhees, Jr. Ret.
Connecticut Chapter
LTC Paul B. Hoar, Ret.
Mrs. Natalie Pelland
Great Lakes Chapter
2LT David Bindon
CW5 James F. Wise, Ret.
High Desert Chapter
LTC Cameron G. Gallagher
Keystone Chapter
MG Jessica Wright, Ret.
Lonestar Chapter
MAJ Thomas M. Kolb, Ret.
Minuteman Chapter
LTC James J. Lonchiadis
Mount Rainier Chapter
SFC Fabian Bandoo
Narragansett Bay Chapter
Mr. Michael O’Keefe
North Texas Chapter
CPT Sean C. Thomas
Pikes Peak Chapter
Cw2 Jerid Hitchens
Tennessee Valley Chapter
Ms. Kathy Willerton

New AAAA
Members

Air Assault Chapter
WO1 Daniel J. Adams
Bryan L. Corbett Sr.
Arizona Chapter
John P. Graham
Aviation Center Chapter
WO1 Cornelius J. Kettles
SFC John Timothy Pryor
2LT Paul J. Rankin
WO1 Julie Reinking
WO1 Andrea J. Romberger
WO1 Sally R. Thomas
Desert Oasis Chapter
James Allen Lippencott
Follow Me Chapter
1SG Deborah Ann Countryman
Griffin Chapter
SGT Jacob F. Casner
PFC Jean E. Etienne
SGT Matthew T. Golding
SPC Matthew S. Gunn
1LT Joseph LaMagna

SGT Dakota R. Mercer
SSG Justin C. Middleton
SGT Nathan A. MillerPeter J. Mock
SSG Daniel W. Pennington
SPC Carlos M. Rivera
SPC Paul G. Rodriguez
MAJ Jonathan M. Romaneski
SPC Joshua M. Sailer
SGT Bryce D. Wood
Idaho Snake River Chapter
WO1 Brandon T. Anderson
Magnolia Chapter
WO1 Andrew L. Eaves
Morning Calm Chapter
CW5 Michael A. Corsaro
SGT Andrew Ji
SFC Uziel T. Lopez
Mount Rainier Chapter
MAJ Nicole Solana
North Texas Chapter
Ms. Haley Hartwick
Phantom Corps Chapter
WO1 Travis D. Watson
ShowMe Chapter
SPC Lyza Jamerson
Tennessee Valley Chapter
Tim Aultman
WO1 Jackie C. Bottoms
John Bullock
Linda D. Diedrich
April L. East
Daniel S. Gadomski
Aimee D. Ghee
Brian M. Sullivan
Washington-Potomac Chapter
SPC Suraj Raj Mali
Winged Warriors Chapter
SFC Brandyn D. Andres
SGT Alicia A. Baum
SGT William F. Bavetta
1LT Jordan D. Carbol
CW3 Matthew M. Christopher
SFC Donald L. Cribbett
SPC Enrique M. Cuevas
SGT Travin O. Dashell
SSG Jose F. Esperacion
CPT Kevin T. Filip
CPT Philip H. FonsCW2 George L. Howard
1LT David A. Jackson
CW2 Jayson D. Johnson
CPT William T. Lane
SGT Tavarus D. Lewis
SPC Natalie A. Li
SSG Timothy J. McGrathSPC Kevin B. Muldrow
SGT Janay L. Nutter
SGT Timothy A. Robinson
SGT Kali T. Saini
CPT Carey Wade Shepard

Top Recruiter Program
AAAA awards $100 to the member who recruits the most new members
in a given month (minimum of 10 members to qualify).

AAAA congratulates the following Top Recruiters:

SGT Shawn Bourke
Sinai Chapter
Recruited 12 new members in March 2019!

1LT Ryan Fiore
Winged Warriors Chapter
Recruited 27 new members in May 2019!
For more information on this and other programs, contact your
Chapter officers or go to quad-a.org.

SGT Perceiver Tozaygono
SSG Jose A. Vasquez
SGT Edison M. Vera
SFC Phillip K. Webb
CW3 Joshua D. Weston
SPC Austin G. Wim
Lost AAAA Members

Help AAAA locate a lost member andreceive a FREE one month extension to
your AAAA membership.
PFC Anthony Aleman
CPT Robert Boham
Harold Bowie
MAJ James Bruckart
SPC Brett Butler
E. Cavanaugh
LTC Richard Cercone
LTC Tzu-Shan Chang
Kenneth Clark
MAJ Harry Connors
Cynthia Crutchfield
Bruno Cussigh
SGT Travis Darnell
CW3 Matthew Decker
2LT Arthur Galloway
Michael Glass
MAJ Gregory Glover
LTC William GoforthMary Gorman
COL Gerhard Granz
Tashia Harris Smith

NEW for AAAA Members!
Over thousands of Travel andEntertainment Discounts!

UPCOMING EVENTSAUGUST 2019
1 Award Submission Deadline – Logistics Support Unit of the Year; Materiel
Readiness Awards; Fixed Wing Unit of the Year; UAS Soldier & Unit of the Year
20-21 AAAA Luther G. Jones Army Aviation Depot Forum, Corpus Christi, TX
30-2 Sep NGAUS 141st General Conference & Exhibition, Denver, CO

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Click “My Discounts” – Start Shopping & Saving!

SEPTEMBER 201930-2 NGAUS 141st General Conference & Exhibition, Denver, CO
28 National Aviation Hall of Fame Enshrinement – Denver, CO

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

COL Jose Hinojosa
CW4 Delbert Jackson
MAJ Gregory Jenkins
MAJ David Jobe
LTC Peter Kowal
Beth Kramer
CW3 Vladimir Kultschizky
CW3 Timothy Larz
MSG David Little
SPC Poblo Lopez
CPL Williams Marquez
SFC Jim Moore
Fred Newcomb
SFC Henry Rathbone
SPC Cameron Rumbo
LTC Martin Scheld
Thomas Schiltz
LTC Jerry Scott
SPC Jeremy Sharkey
SPC Shelton Shia
SGT Nishi Shogo
Brian Skiltow
Jeremy Smith
MAJ James Speelman
LTC Friedrich Stern
WO1 Armando Torres
Kevin Tucker
SPC Mark Villaluazo
MAJ L.D. Walker
Rose Weast
Nadia Whatley
SSG Johan Zarae

53

July 31, 2019

AAAA

u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT			AAAA Legislative Report

By LTC Kevin Cochie, Retired
AAAA Representative to the Military Coalition (TMC)
kevin.cochie@quad-a.org
Defense Budget Fight
Ramps UpA lot has materialized on Capitol Hill sincelast month’s article with the Senate andHouse both finalizing their versions of the
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)
for FY20. We will focus on this because it
sets the stage for the political dance we will
witness in the coming months.
Budget Authorizations
As discussed in previous articles, the
NDAA is the annual piece of legislationthat “authorizes” the DoD to spend
dollars for research and development,
procurement, and sustainment. The otherthing the NDAA does is guide and influence
policy. When industry disagrees with thedirection DoD is going on programs, they
use their lobbyists to influence throughthe House and Senate authorizationcommittees (HASC and SASC). Each ofthese committees pass a version of the
NDAA that will eventually be resolved in a
conference period for a final version. Eachof these versions comes with their own
accompanying report that issues directive
report language (DRL) to DoD mostly in theform of report and briefing requirements.
These are aimed at making the DoD
do more homework on the decisions
they are making. The HASC and SASC
versions of the FY20 NDAA reveal that
Congress remains very interested in thecurrent state of Army Aviation readinessas well as the future of our enterprise.
The President’s budget request has a
topline of $750B in defense spending. The
Senate, controlled by the GOP, publishedtheir version of the NDAA in alignment with
the President’s request while the HASC,
controlled by the Democrats, publisheda version with a topline of only $730B.
That’s $20B that must be resolved by
the end of the fiscal year in September. In
the coming months, our Aviation general

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

officers will move back and forth acrossthe Potomac to underscore our needs andadvocate for funding and policy that aligns
with our needs. They are busy because at
the same time, they are in parallel working
the budget request for FY21 and they are
working to answer the mail on the directive
report language that have hard deadlines.

Directive Report
Language (DRL)
Let’s take a little closer look at thedirective report language. When you lookat the hundreds of pages of DRL publishedin conjunction with each chamber’s
version of the NDAA, it reveals interesting
insight into parochial and non-parochialinterests that effect Army Aviation. Politicalinfluence happens on and off Capitol Hill,
but it is very powerful and often comes in
the form of DRL. In the Senate’s report,
they add detail on why they cut or add
funding authorizations to the budget lines
requested by the President. Apache newbuilds is one example. We requested
zero new build Apaches in the budget
request, but the Senate disagrees andadded an authorization of $105M (3 newaircraft). UH-60M procurement had abudget request of $1.4B, but the Senate
felt that was too much and reduced theauthorization by $140M specificallystating that 7 aircraft to be built for theactive force would be reduced out ofthe procurement plan. UH-60V also saw
action as Congress increased the $169M
request for the upgraded platform by$35M (+8 conversions) noting the needfor these aircraft in the National Guard.
What drives these decisions and changes?
The answer is two-fold. Remember,
the FY20 Army Aviation Budget request
was built over a year ago and went toCongress this past March. Life in DoD
is dynamic, and requirements changeover the course of 12-18 months, but

54changing the budget request right before
it goes to Capitol Hill is impossible. So, ourAviation general officers confer often withcongressional staff on these changes sowhen lawmakers move into their actions
to make edits to the President’s budget
requests, some of them such as those
noted above are coordinated between
the Pentagon and Capitol Hill. This is thepart of the process that works very well.
The other influence on changes occurs
through parochial influence by industry
lobbyists and partisan organizations.
We’d be fooling ourselves if we did notrecognize that Sikorsky, Boeing, and large
companies as well as organizations likethe National Guard Association contributed
to the adjustments noted above. This
is not a bad thing, and a natural part ofthe process. Another piece of DRL that
seems very promising also came out of
the Senate. They published a long anddetailed piece of language encouraging
the future vertical lift (FVL) acquisition
strategy be accelerated. There is strong
support on Capitol Hill to give our next
generation warfighters advanced rotary
wing technology, but again, everythingcomes at a price and aviation is expensiveso the puts and takes is a very challenging
balance for our Aviation leaders to achieve.

Aviation Engagement
Continuity
We’ve had quite a few general officers
on the move this summer and one to noteis the return of BG “Mac” McCurry to Army
G3 Aviation in the Pentagon. This is good
for Army Aviation because of his lengthy
experience in Army G3 and G8 and extensive
experience working with congressional staff
and members. BG McCurry needs very little
ramp up speed as he already knows theprocess inside and out and has existingand productive relationships with the key
influencers on the Hill.

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ARMY AVIATION Magazine

55

CHAPTER PHOTOS BY SHERRY L.DORNER

CW3 Robert L. Renny
CW4 Travis R. Michael
CW4 Shai M. Bardfield
SFC Uziel T. Lopez
SSG Jonathan H. MizeGOLD
CW2 Rocky A. MyersCW5 Joseph Roland
CW2 Victor M. Trinidad
SILVER
1SG Lee A. Dalton
CW5 Steven N. Russell
CW4 Travis N. Westfall
COL Rick Zampelli
MSG Charles Raines
COL Geoffrey Crawford
CW4 Dominick J. Petro
COL Bernard J. Harrington CW4 Don-Carlos Moniz
COL Erik Gilbert
CW4 Benjamin Foster
COL Christopher W. Waters CW3 Craig Tomko
COL Brian Hughes
CW3 Jay M. Thompson
COL Scott Beall
CW3 Derrick R. Nunley
CW5 Richard J. Rylee
CW3 Bobby L. Escarciga
LTC Bryan Wiley
CW3 Christopher Hise
CW3 Francisco Cervantes
BRONZECW3 Joshua Bosak
MAJ Erika Holownia
CW3 David Droste
CW4 Edward C. McKiver
1SG Eric A Beilfuss
1SG James P. VanAlstine
MAJ Lauren G. N. Fernando 1SG Jorge H. Cobo
SFC Michael L. Manwaring CW3 James N. Bueby
1SG Jason Setliff
1SG Perry Molden
CW4 John Kinard
CW4 James T. Brzezinski
CW3 Richard Satterfield
MAJ Lukas B. BergCW4 Nicholas Quinn
1SG Daniel J. AllanCW3 Heath B. Robinson
1SG Brain McFarland
1SG Christopher Cheasty
1SG Jason M. SchadCW4 Sean Martin
1SG Jesse Taitingfong
1SG Eduardo Alvarran
1SG Edzel Yadao
CW3 Brian Tallent
CPT Michael Haynes
CW5 Bryan Synder
CPT Michael Casares
CW4 Steven Farabaugh
CPT Jay Irwin
CW3 Mark Sluss
CW4 Brett Haskin
CW2 Erik Bartelt
MAJ Jared H. Brynildsen
CW5 Bernard E. Litaker Jr.
MAJ Aris J. Comeaux
MAJ Anthony Snipes
CW4 Charles S. Rhoden
CW4 Thomas O’Grady
CW3 Anthony S. MarionCW4 Jason Nazarenko
CW3 Andrew Lau
SFC Christopher Rennie
MAJ Billy D. Blue III
MAJ Lisa Klewkowski
CW3 Phillip Owens
MSG Fidel DiazSantiago
CW3 Charles R. BerryCW2 Eric D. Hauser
CW2 Vito McMillian
CW4 Bradley J. Renneke
CW3 David Southall
CW4 Michael A. Gazda
CW4 Shawn D. Linnean
LTC Michael S. Johnson
SSG Aldreaka Battle
Mark D. Smith
SSG Curtis J. Phelps
Bruce D. Benson
SFC Dustin A. Esewein
CW5 Larry R. Kulsrud, Ret.
SFC Lamont Womack
SFC Matthew W. Gagnon
SFC Chad A. Tieben
MSG Billy J. Hardwick
CPT Aaron W. Amacker
1SG David L. George
CPT Michael Bramel
MAJ David Cook
CPT James R. Duffy, Jr.
MAJ James Seale
CPT Charles B. Hale
1SG Anthony Mintz
CPT Richard D. Kubu
CPT Peter B. Todsen
MSG James S. Lange

LTC Nathan Lewis
Our Lady
CPT Joshua J. Waddellof Loreto
CW2 Derek Wilkinson
RecipientsCW3 Dupree Bartley
1LT Justin HallBG Marcus Evans
1SG Shawn A. Burns
CPT Francesco Candelmo
CPT Ryan Beilstein
CW2 Eric Lopez
1SG Robert K. Derk
Paige Forrester
CPT Jennifer Schaus
Courtney Miralrio
CSM Francisco J. Declet
CPT(P) Savannah Livingston Erin Hubert
Sasha Moen
SSG Abimelec Santiago
Stephanie R. Vokert
CW4 Lorenzo J. Key
Lisa Michelle Edmonds
CW5 Doug Finstad
CW5 John J. Blank
Melissa Kellum
LTC Robert Klarenbach
Kathryn McNeal
LTC Adam Reed Keown
Tiffany Walker
COL Steven Braddom
Sabrina Glaze
CW3 Jason Plonka
Suzzane Harmon
Harry Statia
Elena Trawick
Linette O. Neal
Honorable
Jennifer Lee Rhoden
KnightSabrina Spurrier
Jackie Schad
Recipients
Jessica Loeza
Michelle Hernandez
Lydia Garza
Dana Clark
Sarah Anne O’Rourke
Christina C. Ehteridge
Tammi Von Hagel
Jenna Severs
MG Kirk F. Vollmecke SFC Heather Meyerhoff
Andrea M. Sieg
Wendy Buzzard
SSG Michael D. Reyes
Abby Griffin
SFC Rodrigo Valdivia
Brittney MyersCPT Daniel Cannon
Katherine Waters
COL Brendan Raymond
Wanetta Armitage
BG Joel Vowell
1SG Jermaine S. Grandison Tammie Friel
Amanda Gulsby
BG Adnrew Preston
Shari Hutcins
CSM Kevin Donegan
Kalie St. Onge
CPT John T. Walsh
Jennifer Griswold
CPT Nathaniel Berger
Christa Ploetz
CPT Lauren E. Seibt
CPT Pepito A. Purugganan Marsha Setliff
CPT Kathleen Rojewski
Samantha Weston
SFC Ricky Amon
Lorena Blackwell
MAJ Jamie Wright
Christie Scott
MSG Jerome Rogers
Penny Goddard
MAJ Jonathan Neal
Jennifer RoleyCW2 Kyle BrouilletteMichelle Waleski
MAJ Kevin Hoffman
Stephanie Lange
Latana Pempleston Erves
Sarah Mintz
CPT Jeremy M. Weeks
Karen Blomberg
CPT Andrew J. Ware
Lori Wilsher
CPT Russell D. Woody
Ashley Konesko
MSG Nicholas Nyberg
Allie Minsinger
MAJ Christopher Malone
Amy Outlaw
CSM Victor Fernandez II
Brooke Lewis
CSM Todd W. Sims
Daneisha Wilson
BG John W. Brennan Jr.
Krista Waddell
CPT Jae J. Kim
Laura BlackCW3 Derrick L. DoyleSarah Malo
Chong Man Lee
MAJ C. Haywood McMillian Whitney Saari
Tiffany Bergemann
BG Olliver Kingsbury

His wife, Paula Turner, was also inducted
into the Honorable Order of Our Lady
of Loreto at the same ceremony for her
unfailing support of her husband over the
past 23 years.

CHAPTER PHOTO BY GARY A. JONES

Order ofSt. Michael
Recipients

OSMs Continued from page 51

Chapter President, Gary Nenninger, inducts
Gregory D. Gore, deputy project manager,
Utility Helicopters, into the Silver Honorable
Order of St. Michael on June 5, 2019 at
Redstone Arsenal, AL. Gore was recognizedfor his selfless and exceptional service whichenabled the transformation of the Army’s
utility helicopter fleet

CHAPTER COURTESY PHOTO

AAAA Awards

MSG (Ret.) Tom Migliozzi, UH-60 A/L
Modifications office, is inducted into theBronze Honorable Order of St. Michael bychapter president, Gary Nenninger, at the
Tennessee Valley Chapter AAAA Mission
Area Awards on June 13, 2019. His blend ofaccomplishments over 21 years in the Armybefore his retirement, along with his 11-year
career supporting the UH-60 Black Hawk
office are not only impressive but will have alasting and overwhelmingly positive impact on
Army Aviation.
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u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORTAAAA Family Forum By Judy Konitzer
Past President BG (Ret.) Steve Mundt and Janis Arena introduced me to Gabriela during the AAAA Functional Awards Ceremony held at
Fort Rucker on January 30, 2019. We were impressed by her positivity and appreciation of being a military spouse, and I invited her to share
her thoughts with our readers.

The Military Does Take Care of Us!
By Gabriela Lopez, With Edits by Judy Konitzer

M

When he finished college, he announced
he was returning to active duty and in
the next breath asked me to marry him.
I came from Mexico as a teenager
and became naturalized. I had a daughter and worked paycheck to paycheckall thru college, just wanting to makea better life for us. Chris convinced methat the military would take care of us,
although I had no idea what that meant.
Our first duty station was Fort Drum.
I had never been out of California, andthe only thing I knew was that mymother told us that when we married,
you follow your spouse wherever it may
take you. We arrived in April with Chris
deploying in June. I worried about how
I was going to find a job, get healthcare,pay for the house, and get childcare allwhile being thousands of miles awayfrom my family. Before deployment, theunit held a marriage retreat. The chaplain spoke of marital/family issues andhow to work through them, and I was
comforted knowing the military reallycared about its families.
After the unit deployed, I attended afamily readiness group (FRG) meeting
and was honestly disappointed when
one of the FRG leaders began discussing dealing with issues while ourspouses were deployed. She stated wewere basically single parents - the strawthat broke the camel’s back, I could not
keep quiet. I told her our spouses volunteered to be in the Army, and a few
months prior to that day, the only thing
I knew about the Army was that it went
to war. I didn’t want my husband to be
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

at war, but he volunteered, and I wasgoing to support his choice. I felt secureknowing that every two weeks we hada paycheck. I felt safe living in a houseprovided by the military on base. I felt
reassured knowing that if my children
were sick, they would be taken care of.
I felt relieved that organizations wereactively helping with employment after
relocating. Having never been exposedto the military before this, I explained
these benefits did not exist in the civilian world. To think she was a single
parent with her spouse risking his life
to provide ALL these benefits to us was
not only shameful, but disappointing to
her spouse’s sacrifice.
Now nearly 14 years later, we have
had four more duty stations and three
more deployments. Our three children
have grown knowing nothing but the
military as a way of life. It has been aroller coaster of ups and downs, but wehave never worried about being able toprovide for our family. We have met
some great people and have seen somegreat leadership and units that genuinely care for families.
Since Fort Drum, I have engaged
in other FRG events with mixed outcomes. Some were good; some werenot; but there was often an underlying
thought of what is owed to us as families. I have volunteered at local post
Red Cross organizations, because it is
one way I can pay forward what has
been done for us.
Chris has been in the military formore than 20 years. He has a master’s
56

AAPI PHOTO BY RENÉ BIDEZ

y husband, Chris, and I met in 2001 while
attending Oxnard college in California. He hadtransitioned from active duty to California National
Guard.

Author Gabriela Lopez with her spouse, CPT
Laurencio C. Lopez, 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry
Regiment, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, whoreceived the 2018 Army Aviation Medicine Award
sponsored by Gentex Corporation during the
AAAA Functional Awards dinner on January 30,
2019 at Ft. Rucker, AL.

degree, without a penny of student debt.
I completed college and certifications
including dental assistant and radiology technician, at no cost to me. Our
daughter is in college using her dad’s
GI bill and can concentrate on school
without worrying about work. Our son
has aspirations of going to West Pointand serving as an Army officer. To say
or think the military owes us is troubling knowing how much it has given. I
never felt like a single parent, and I am
grateful for my life as a military spouse.
Gabriela Lopez is a dental assistant andspouse of CPT Laurencio C. Lopez, 2/17th
CAV, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade.
The Lopez’es have 3 children and live in
Clarksville, Tennessee.
Judy Konitzer is the family forum editor
for ARMY AVIATION; questions andsuggestions can be directed to her at judy@quad-a.org.
July 31, 2019

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NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u

Thank You to Our Scholarship Fund Donors

AAAA recognizes the generosity of the following individuals, chapters and organizations that have donated to the Scholarship Foundation from January
through June, 2019. The list includes donations received for all scholarships, as well as the General Fund which provides funding to enable the chapter, corporate,
heritage and individual matching fund programs as well as national grants and loans. Donors marked with an * are partially or totally donating to the Families of the
Fallen Scholarship. Every penny donated to the Scholarship Foundation goes directly to a grant or loan as a result of the Army Aviation Association of America
subsidizing ALL administrative costs!

AAAA Badger Chapter
AAAA-Speaker Donation 2019 Summit
AAAA Air Assault Chapter
Airbus Helicopters, Inc.
AAAA Aloha Chapter
Alyssa Perry
Amazon Smile
Ameripack
Amy Anderson
AAAA Arizona Chapter
AAAA Aviation Center Chapter
Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union
Army Aviation Publications, Inc.
BAE System
Becker’s Air Powered Sweeping, Inc.
Bell
BG (Ret.) James M. & Joyce L. Hesson
BoeingBoeing YourCause LLC
Booz Allen Hamilton
Bradley S Boyer Alexandria H Boyer
Brig Gen Harry H. Bendorf
Canebrake Club, LLC
Cari KreiselCharleen Kennedy
Charles David Bayless
Charles E. Wright Jessica L. Wright
Christie Reyenga
Colonel (RET) Harry Townsend, Diana L
Townsend
AAAA Colonial Virginia Chapter
Community Health Charities
Concept Components
Constance Hansen
AAAA Cowboy Chapter
Cynthia S. Campbell
D.R. Haag, D.E. Haag
Dan Brown
Daniel T Madish, Elisabeth Madish
David BlackburnDavid John Stock II Jennifer Lynn Stock
Davis Aircraft Products Co., Inc.
Debra Harlow-Aldecoa
AAAA Delaware Chapter
Donald MunschDustoff Association
Edward Lewis Landry & Kimberly A Jamison
EJ. Sinclair & Susan Sinclair
Ellen Luz Ramil & Manuel B Ramil
Emily M Miller
Evelyn A. Soucek Trust
AAAA Flint Hills Chapter
Gail Vergez

Gary N. & Christine A. Nesta
Greater Giving
AAAA Idaho Snake River Chapter
Ingrid K Bruce
Ironmountain Solutions, Inc
Jack A. JamesAAAA Jack H. Dibrell Alamo Chapter
JACS Aircraft Certification Specialist
James E. Rogers Reba A. Rogers
James Emerson
Jason Benedict
Jeff Becker
Jerry P. Mellick
Jodi Lynch
John Maez
John D. & Kathleen B. LaMotta
John S. Bolton, Linda S. Bolton
Johnson& Johnson
Jolanda Masters
Jon C Eidem
Joy Skantz
Judith H. Janowiak
Judy French
Karissa Poe
K-Con, Inc.
Kelly F Carberry
AAAA Keystone Chapter
Khalifa Almeghairi
Larry D. & Julianne S. Holcomb
Laura Arena
Laura Steele
Lawrence P. Peduzzi
Leslie H Gilbert
Lewis McConnell
AAAA Lindbergh Chapter
LTC (Ret.) Jerry O. & Vivian A. Obert
LTG William Phillips, Ret Marilyn H. Phillips
AAAA MacArthur Chapter
Marc Rassler
Marlene Raczkowski
Masaki Sudo
Matthew J. Sheedy
MG (Ret.) Andy & Artie Andreson
Michael YounceMichele Lynn Broshear
Mimi F. Boulden
AAAA Minuteman Chapter
AAAA Mount Rainier Chapter
Munsch & Co. Aeromechanics
N. L. Amato
Network for GoodAAAA North Star Chapter
AAAA North Texas Chapter

AAAA Northern Lights Chapter
Pamet W. Brown
Patriot Taxiway Industries, IncPaul McCarthy
Peduzzi Associates LTD
AAAA Phantom Corps Chapter
Phantom Products Inc.
Piasecki Foundation
QuantiTech, Inc.
Raymond Milora
Raquel E. & Terry R. Horner
Robert Seigle
Robertson Fuel Systems
Roy Sullivan
Rudolph & Pamela N. Ostovich III
S D Mundt & B J Mundt
Safran El. & Def., Avionics USA
Safran Helicopter Engines
Safran USA Virginia
Scott Kubica
Sharon Kleiber
Shashy Family Charitable Fund
Shelley YarboroughSidney W Achee
AAAA Southern California Chapter
Steven M Soucek & Chandra L Soucek
Strata-G Solutions, Inc.
System Studies & Simulation, Inc.
T Konitzer & TJK Konsulting Inc.
Tactical & Survival Specialties, Inc.
Tee It Up for the Troops, Inc.
AAAA Tennessee Valley Chapter
The Luminescence Foundation, Inc.
The OV-1 Mohawk Association
Thomas F. McNamara
AAAA Thunder Mountain Chapter
AAAA Thunderbird Chapter
Tier 4 LLC
Timothy Wooldridge
Vantage West Credit Union
Veteran Guardian
VHPA Scholarship Fund
Victoria Bendure
Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association
AAAA Voodoo Chapter
AAAA Washington Potomac Chapter
William Hipple
William Newby
William Phillips
William S. & Sara S. Johnson
AAAA Wright Bros. Chapter
Your Cause LLC

For more information about the Foundation or to make a contribution, go online to www.quad-a.org; contributions can also be mailed to
AAAA Scholarship Foundation, Inc., 593 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468-2806.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

57

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u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT

People On The Move
Aviation General Officer
Promotions/Assignments

FY 2019 Colonel
Army Competitive
Category
Selection Board
Results

Yeager Makes History as First Female
Infantry Division Commander

MG Thomas H. Todd III takes the oath of office during
his promotion ceremony on June 6, 2019 in front of
the PEO Aviation headquarters, Redstone Arsenal,
AL. BG (Ret.) Edward M. Harrington administered
the oath, with Todd’s wife, Tracy, by his side.

Mangum Selected For DACOWITSAAPI PHOTO BY RENE BIDEZ

LTG (Ret.) Kevin W. Mangum
was selected on June 11, 2019as one of five new members
to the Defense Advisory
Committee on Women in theServices. DACOWITS provides
the secretary of defense withadvice and recommendations
on matters and policies
relating to the recruitment, retention, employment,
integration, well-being and treatment of women in
the armed forces. The committee is comprised of
up to 20 members, who include military retirees,
veterans, civilian women and men from academia,
industry, public service and other professions.
Selection is based on military experience or withwomen-related workforce issues.

U.S. ARMY PHOTO SFC BENJAMIN COSSELOn June 29, MG Laura Yeager, was promoted to hercurrent rank and took command of the 40th Infantry
Division, at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos
Airfield, Los Alamitos during a ceremony hosted by
California Adjutant General MG David S. Baldwin,
Yeager is the first woman in history to lead a U.S. Army
infantry division. A Senior Army Aviator, she flew Black
Hawk helicopters on a combat deployment to Iraq in2011 and commanded the California National Guard’s
40th Combat Aviation Brigade.

Changes of Command/
Responsibility
Cutchin Takes Command of TF Warhawk

COL Harvey A. Cutchin, 244th
Combat Aviation Brigade
commanding officer, out of Joint
Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,
assumed command of Task
Force Warhawk, in a ceremony
at the Camp Taji Airfield, in
support of Operation Inherent
Resolve, May 1, 2019. The
244th CAB has deployed to Iraq to support OIR, whichis the operational name for the military intervention
against the Islamic State of Iraq.
U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY CPT FERNANDO OCHOAPHOTO FROM PEO AVN FACEBOOK PAGE

Todd Promoted to 2 Stars

The fiscal year 2018 colonel
army competitive category
selection board results werereleased May 21, 2019. AAAA
congratulates the following 24
Aviation/Acquisition lieutenantcolonels on their selection.
Seq #0116 Arriaga, Thomas Jason +0002 Buss, Darren W. *0013 Cook, Jason Thomas +0001 Didier, Hannon A. *0051 Duus, Andrew John *0071 Hay, Marcus C. *0036 Herman, Joseph M. *0009 Hogan, Kyle Martin *0064 Holcombe, Robert J. +0072 James, Jeremy Wayne *0127 Kirk, Christopher J. +0152 Lamb, Phillip Hayes *0016 Mannion, Michael J. *0033 Martin, Elizabeth A. +0141 Miller, Jacob W. *0168 Mykins, Jennifer A. +0123 Rowland, Matthew L. *0158 Ruisanchez, Joshua +0060 Schuck, Gerald P. +0061 Shaffner, Jonathan *0079 Surrey, Nathan S. +0076 Tucker, Richard P.
0032 Von Hagel, Daryl S. *0044 West, Jason L** Below the zone selection* = AAAA Member+ = Life Member

ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING (AIT) GRADUATIONSAAAA congratulates the following PV2 Mark Gathogo Muturi
Army graduates of the indicated PV2 Chase Scott Prince
Advanced Individual Training (AIT) PV2 Michael Jose Rivera
courses at the 128th Aviation
PV2 Terrell Chase Wadsworth
Brigade, Joint Base LangleyPV2 Noah Alexzander Whitlow
Eustis, VA and the U.S. Army
PV2 Barrington L. Williams
Aviation Center of Excellence, Ft. Class 010-19
Rucker, AL.
PV2William Loyd Dunnam II-DG
PV2 Ryan James Adams
AH-64 Attack Helicopter
PV2 Sergio Adrian Armendariz
Repairer (15R)
PV2 Cameron Noah BerginClass 009-19
PV2 Derek Rashad Covington
PFC Johnny Silva-DG
PV2 Christopher Diaz
PV2 Dhanvi Achanta
PV2Ryan Alexander Esqueda
PV2 Payne Stewart Harris
SPC Dustin Friedrich
PFC Nichols Javier Labastida
SPC Michael Patrick Keavey
PV2 Hagan Gibbon Mcintosh
SGT Arun Kumar Srivastava
PV2 Luis Felipe Jesus Medrano CPL Kranti Prasad Thyadi

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Class 011-19
SPC Casey Sean Hietala-DG
SPC Zachary Ryan Brooks
SPC Shawn Thomas Calchera
PV2 Darrell Blaine Esteppe Jr.
SGT Mouncef Ettayeb
PFC Jordan Isaiah Maize Griggs
PV2Jacob Ingual Hanson Jr.
SPC Jacob Matthew Hull
SSG Justin Joseph Humphrey
SPC Hunter Michael Irby
PV2Jason Edward Keefover
PFC Javier David Soria
Class 523-19
PFC Brooke Lynn Weaver-DG
SPC Nora Jane Malate Grover
PV2 Devon Fredrich Lurch
PV2 Spencer Thomas Madison

58

PV2 Gevanei Donovan Malcolm PV2Bianca Danielle Yanez
PV2 Zachary Dewitte Mangrum Class 524-19
PV2 Eitan Nathaniel M.Comacho PV2 Nickolas J. Siciliano-DG
PFC Ryan Christian Paradise
PV2 Adam Michael Gonzales
PV2 Brian Eugene Peevy
PV2 Austin Morgan Hatch
PFC Luis Ernesto Perez
PV2 Gavin Anthony Lopez
PV2 Gerardo Pimentel
PV2 Cristian B. Lopez Cornejo
Class 012-19
PV2 John Henry Merritt Jr.
PV2 Stephen J.Drake Jr. - DG PV2 Christopher R.Piñeiro
PV2 Kyler Michel Applebee
PFC Gepaul Saldivar
PV2 Omari Malique BellPV2 Kelton Wade Shriver
PFC Soulisa Tai Bountathip
PFC Anthony Bruce Skubic Jr.
PV2 Steven Mauricio Cabrera
PV2 Isaac Anthony Roy Weller
PV2 Christian Eugene Campbell
PV2 Jong Ho Choi
UH-60 Helicopter Repairer
PV2 Joshua McCabe Cole
(15T)
PV2 Jackson Nicholas Despas Class 025-19
SPC William Kenneth Miller
PV2 Tyler Grant Absher

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NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u

People On The Move
Flight School Graduates

AAAA provides standard aviator wings to all graduates and sterling silver
aviator wings to the distiguished graduates of each flight class ...
another example of AAAA’s SUPPORT for the U.S. Army Aviation Soldier and Family.
AAAA congratulates the fol- WO1 Hancock, Justin A.
lowing officers graduating from WO1 Harris, Diantha R.
Flight School XXI at the U.S. WO1 Hawkins, Dylan C.
Army Aviation Center of Excel- WO1 McEvers, Brantley A.
lence, Fort Rucker, AL.
WO1 Mertens, Joshua M.
WO1 Montiel Brito, Miguel A.
58 Officers, May 23
WO1 Neidner, Robert C. *Commissioned Officers
WO1 Prais, Joseph K.
1LT Territo, Dominick G. – DG
WO1 Ramirez, Eduardo
1LT Sinopoli, Nickolas J. – HG WO1 Rodriguez, Jorge A.
1LT Solo, Scott N. – HG
WO1 Sharpe, Joshua A.
2LT Stoesser, Dominic R. – HG WO1 Taran, Constantin V.
2LT Acevedo, Jean C.
WO1 Ungles, Corey D.
2LT Burgess, Braden T.
WO1 Vaughn, Justin D.
1LT Bybee, Tyler M.
WO1 Watson, Travis D.
CPT Diaz, Dana C.
WO1 Wiederspan, Michael S.
2LT Elliott, Kyle M.
WO1 Winn, Clayton T.
2LT Kendrick, Austin R.
WO1 Yogore, Morgun C.
2LT Mattos, April M.
1LT Milani, Andrew N. *42 Officers, June 6
1LT Mitchell, Zachary T.
Commissioned Officers
1LT Nguyen, Jonathan D.
2LT Oveson, Lars P. – DG
CPT Phan, Vinh Q.
2LT Brewer, Coburn G. – HG
2LT Phillips, Abby V.
2LT Scales, Austin R. * – HG
1LT Sleek, Ashley B.
1LT Schroeder, Zachary T. – HG
1LT Thrasher, Donald J.
2LT Cabe, Anthony C.
2LT Wortham, Maurissa N.
CPT Crum, Dustin R.
2LT Zacharias, Roy J.
2LT Dente, Mark A.
Warrant Officers
1LT Ezdebski, Paul H.
WO1 Crockett, Samuel R. – DG 1LT Holcomb, Leighann B.
WO1 Maroon, Douglas M. – HG 2LT Jackson Haney, Jonathan R.
WO1 Plummer, David L. – HG
CPT Parish, Matthew R.
WO1 Williams, Jason A. – HG
2LT Peace, Korbahn C.
WO1 Wright, Dustin K. – HG
2LT Porter, Meredith L.
WO1 Adams, Brandon M. *2LT Roach, Christopher A.
WO1 Adams, Daniel J.
2LT Rompel, Austin D.
WO1 Aegerter, Jacob J.
1LT Roudbari, Rebecca S.
WO1 Anderson, Brandon T.
2LT Schmersahl, Alexander J.
WO1 Anderson, Daniel J.
2LT Shuey, Michael D.
WO1 Bobroff, Nathaniel B.
1LT Yoo, Michael A.
WO1 Brown, Timothy D.
Warrant Officers
WO1 Coleman, John M.
WO1 Krustchinsky, Jacob A. * – DG WO1 Brandon, Matthew C.
WO1 Creed, Daniel T.
WO1 Gross, Michael C. – HG
WO1 Carda, Christian D.
WO1 Dean, Austin M.
WO1 Guest, Christopher M. – HG WO1 Clark, Brody
WO1 Emge, Matthew J. *WO1 Kraus, Andrew J. – HG
WO1 Clark, Phillip A.
WO1 Galloway, Kyle W. *WO1 Swain, Bryce K. – HG
WO1 Delgado, Emanuel A.
WO1 Gomez, Diego M.
WO1 Baird, Jackson E.
WO1 Dittrich, Tanner S.
WO1 Hamilton, Patrick K. *WO1 Behnke, Benjamin J.
WO1 Garcia, Jorge L.

IERW May 23

IERW June 6
WO1 Giger, Kimberly R.
WO1 Goetze, Damon M.
WO1 Jordan, Matthew F.
WO1 Krynauw, Cheyenne F.
WO1 Leake, Gerald C. Iii
WO1 McFann, James P.
WO1 Michalsen, Bjorn H.

WO1 Moye-Linehan, Lewis P.
WO1 Taylor, Eric M.

SPC Martin Mekina
PV2 Wiridalis Perezortiz
SPC Sarah Jo Ward
PV2 Jackson Mathew Willem
Class 028-19
PFC Alexander J.Garcia - DG
PV2 Christopher Lee A.Baird
PV2 Liam Tobias Belhumeur
PV2 Matthew Dylan Bramble
PV2 Ethan Makenzie Crawford
PFC Jax Anastasi Currington
PFC Brody Charles Feind
PV2 Brandon Edward Fleming
PV2 Tyler Mackenzie Herndon

PV2 Michael Dewayne Watkins
SPC Justin Taylor Webber
PV2 Duane Andrew Wilbur, Jr
Class 524-19
PV2 Jason Allan Sharik - DG
PV2 Devin Isaiah Buckhannon
PV2 Carter M.Hildebrandt
SPC Daehyeok Kweon
PFC Nicholas Athonio Nance
PV2 Yohan David Paduacintron
PV2 Brandon Lee Parrish
PV2 Devin Ray Phillips
SPC Jared Ott PopeContinued on page 60

DG: Distinguished Graduate
HG: Honor Graduate* = AAAA Member

ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING (AIT) GRADUATIONSPV2 Cody Allen Bentley
PVT Tyler Wayne Bond
PV2 Gabriel Ray Bettencourt
SPC Billy Daniel Grayless
PFC Raymond M. Bodtmann
PFC William Wyatt Hutter
PV2 Julian Peter Bonaguro
PVT Zackary Brian Mott
SGT Troy Dean Chambers
PFC Roman I.Petrashishin
PV2 Cody Albert Cloteaux
PV2 Joseph Ernest Rastelli
PV2 Justin Michael CookPFC Kyle Matthew Thompson
SPC James John Dzurica
PV2 Journey Rock J.Wright
SPC Juan Carlos Gaytan
SPC Daniel Patrick Wycklendt
PFC Branden Thomas Miller
PFC Wameng YangSPC Oscar Javier Rios, Jr
Class 523-19
Class 026-19
PFC Loen Scott Langley - DG
SPC Adam Shaffer Taylor -DG
PV2 Dorian David D.Enequist
PV2 Malsawmtluanga J.Bawitlung PV2 Austin Michael Ewing

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

PV2 Rivera Andres Ferrer
PV2 Benjamin Lee Hymel
PV2 Jacob Charles Manzanares
PV2 Steven Michael McCain
PV2 Soto Luis Ortiz
PV2 Johnathan Tyler Sanders
Class 027-19
PV2 Nicholas Michael Self - DG
SPC Carter Acton
PFC Petaann Ramona Campbell
SPC Thomas David GearyPFC Tristan Ernest Gurry
PV2 Morgan Elizabeth Leal
SPC Jessica Ann Lynch

59

July 31, 2019

AAAA

u NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT

People On The MoveAIT GRADUATIONS continued
PV2 William Bryce Sanders
PV2 Alexander David Snyder
PV2 Jahsiah Kaleokamalani
Arthur Vasquez
Class 029-19
PV2 Nathan T. Weinel - DG
PV2 Kathleen Phyllis Doane
PV2 Jordan Reece Hooper
PV2 Jessica Marie LongPFC Justin Lee Massie
SPC Reco Emmanuel Moody
PV2 Jahbari Dayne Moses
PV2 Carlos Miguel Silva-OrtizPFC Callie Estelle Stevens
PV2 Brayner Valencia
SPC Joshua Velazquez
Class 030-19
PFC Timothy D. Dawson - DG
SPC Jack William Anderson
PVT Jermaine Monte Blocker
PV2 Gregory Paul Brame
PVT Torin Matte Bryant
SPC Jackson Niles Caldwell
PV2 Ian Patrick Callahan
PV2 Timothy Edward Carter
PFC Isaiah Daniel Cook
SPC Ivan Diaz
PV2Clayton Warren Elliott
Class 525-19
PFC Andres J.Gonzalez - DG
PV2 Taylor Michael Fowler
PV2 Nicholas Sean Fox
PV2 Alfred Ronald Fraser, III
PV2 Bryan Joel Gradney
PV2 Cody Harmon
PV2 Anthony Sage Harper
PFC Jacob Michael Manaska
PV2 Lewis W. Manning, Jr
SPC Michael A. Quirindongo
PFC Wycliff Kemal Rumble
Class 031-19
PFC Robert M. Dodson - DG
SGM Faiz B. H. Al Balawi
SGT Moayad Omar H. Alluhaybi
SSG Mohammed O. Al Osaimi
SFC Sultan H. K. Al Wathnani
SFC Abdulaziz J. M. Al Zahrani
SPC Joshua Drake
SPC Tyler James FlathSPC Dante Jeome Horne
SSG Guan-Yu Lin
SPC Justin James Quiggle
SPC Duncan Lanier Watts
Class 032-19
PV2 Joshua Barajas - DG
PV2 Cody Zacshary Ackerman
PV2 Cristian Ricardo Anoceto
PV2 Kyle Christopher Couly
PV2 Zachary Alan Eversman
PV2 Joshua David Eyeington
PV2 Jason Michael McGurl
PV2 Jahbari Dayne Moses
PV2 George Stephen Roosen
PV2 Zachary Allen Santos
PV2 Corbin Scott SmithClass 033-19
PV2 Ranger O. Collard - DG
PV2 Trenton Allen Bates
SGT Christopher J. Duplantis*
PV2 Jeffrey Tyler G. Ebert
PFC Ricky Henderson
SPC Nathaniel Paul Jackson

PV2 Dominic Joseph Luciani
PV2 Cameron Anthony Tralle
PV2 Joshua Danyael Valentin
PV2 Charles Wallace Wood, Jr
Class 034-19
SPC Matthew R.Coyner - DG
PFC Diego Eduardo Alcantara
PFC Justin Gabriel Deluna
PFC Tyler Shea Hayes
PV2 Dylan Scott Leach
SPC William James Liles
SPC Joao Carlos Limao
SPC Jonathan Patrick McClain
SGT Benito Muniz-Velez
SPC Steven Douglas Parker
PV2 Conner Allyn Woodford
SGT Alexander Douglas Zwicky
CH-47 Medium Helicopter
Repairer (15U)Class 008-19
PV2 Nicolas J.Costonzo - DG
PV2 Tyler Austin Avila
PV2 Brendan Irving A. Barney
PV2 Andrew Carson Carlisle
PFC Kayn Kevin Forsyth
PV2 Cameron Michael Dovidio
PV2 Rigoberto G.Gonzalez
PV2 Erick Guevara
PV2 Mendez A.Hernandez
PV2 Devan Alexander Jeffries
PV2 Nicholas Ryan Jordan
SPC Garcia Josue Lemus
Class 511-19
PV2 Justin Carl Metheny - DG
PV2 Cory Joseph McElfresh
PV2 Sydney Marie McMahan
SGT Maximilian Molina
SPC Connor Patrick Oneil
PV2 William Michael Sattizahn
PV2 Paul Joseph Scherling
PV2 Tristan Calvin Siegers
PV2 William Francis Smith
PFC Phillip Michael Voluntad
PV2 Camron L.Weatherbee
PV2 James Michael Welch
Class 010-19
SFC David J. Danielson - DG
PV2 Joshua Monroe Blanchard
PV2 Matthew Jacob King
PV2 Trenten Jonathan Lewis
PV2 Bailey Paul Maynard
PV2 Anthony R. McCormick
PV2 Leslie McCoy Pitts
SGT Jared Keil Quigley
PV2 Nickolas W. Rasmussen
SPC Victor Shawn Shotts, Jr
PFC Derek Scott Wilke
PV2 Daniel Weatherbee
Class 011-19
PV2 Brent Isaac Ballard - DG
PFC Rachel Nadine Benson
SPC Brandon Phillip Carpenter
PFC Mercado Christian Cruz
SPC Jared Christopher Fossek
PV2 Rodriguez Victor Galvez
PV2 Charles Cody Johnson
PFC Spencer Jones
PV2 Erik Daniel Meehan
PV2 Phillip Robert Meridith
PV2 Davied Allen Montgomery
PV2 Nicole Thomas NateARMY AVIATION Magazine

Class 506-19
PV2 Alex Theron West-DG
PV2 Matthew Charles Agan
PV2 Carlos Moreno
SPC Shelby Ray Ogorman
PV2 Luis F. Ordonez-Salvatierra
PV2 Braydon McCall Postma
PV2 Diego Rodriguez
PV2 Zachery Allen Rogers
PV2 Michael Jay Rosso
PV2 Corey Randolph Settle
PFC Justin David Simons
PV2 Love Andre Taylor
Aircraft Powerplant
Repairer (15B)
Class 004-19
PV2 Justin Tyler Adwell - DG
PV2 Johnathan Michael Beris
PV2 Ilisha Ishmael Bottomley
PV2 Jeremy Chase Bradley
PV2 Jonathan M. Castrechino
PV2 Daijon Marquez Cooper
PV2 Shon Michael Cox
PV2 Dakota William Crump
PV2 Pauloroberto Dasilva
SPC Anthony C. Edwards
PV2 Mishael Josiah Esper
PV2 Ernesto Garcia
PV2 Robert Daniel Krim
PV2 Joshua Elias Lopez-Sigala
PV2 Kaleb Malachi Meadows
PV2 Daniel Adam Shreeve Jr.
Class 502-19
PFC Ji Hoon SongPV2 David Spencer Tribble
PV2 Curtis James Williams
Class 005-19
PV2 Stewart A. Ludwig - DG
PV2 Bryant Bernal
PV2 Thomas Dwayne Bradley
SPC Michael David Burns
PV2 Michael Monoru Cloward
PV2 Bryson Trevon Davis
SPC Andrew Stephen Gordon
PV2 Marshall Tylor Gwyn
PFC Evrard Kevin Loue
PV2 Lorenzo Antonio Martinez
SGT Amber Rai Moffett
PV2 Keegan Emerson Murphy
PV2 Zachary Scott Yerkie
Aircraft Powertrain
Repairer (15D)Class 003-19
PV2 Mckay Aaron Pelsue - DG
PV2 Dusty Leroy Clark
PV2 Adam Tyler Devoe
PV2 Bryan Anthony Guy
PV2 Tyronn Jamel Jackson
PV2 Nicolas Hunter Lowery
PV2 William Russell Mansfield
SPC Michael Kayle McCallum
PV2 Joshua M.McCandless
SPC Bryan James McDowell
PV2 Dalton James Pelham
PV2 Nicolas Alexander Ramirez
SSG Jason Robert Reynolds
Class 503-19
PV2 Charles T.Tompkins - DG
PV2 Buster Mitchell Dreksler
PV2 Cameron Adonis Shaw60

PFC Dwight Ricardo Spence
PV2 Dalton Leon Watson
PV2 Jacob Ryan Wilson
Aircraft Electrician (15F)Class 005-19
PV2 Russell Espinal-Cardenas
PFC Victor Gracia
PFC Bernard Clinton LeblancPV2 Jared Samuel Meyers
PV2 Quinton Troy Surfus
PFC Kyle Aaron Woods
Aircraft Structural Repairer(15G)
Class 004-19
PV2 Ryan Charles Bailey - DG
PV2 Thomas Edward Finley
PV2 Cecil Edward Hardin
SPC Andrew Lorin Hubbard
PV2 Lane Michael Kurtz
PV2 Cody Allen Roote
PV2 Jordan Michael Sevin
SPC Pramod Shakya
SGT Benjamin Dale Spencer
PV2 Landen James YowellAircraft Pnedraulics
Repairer (15H)
Class 005-19
PV2 Nathaniel Michael-Cole
Asiatico – DG
PV2 Gashian D.D.Cotton
PV2 Breonna Faith Hill
SPC William Joseph Luketich
PV2 Christopher J.Washington
Avionic Repairer (15N)Class 001-19
PV2 Shamarah R.Tezeno - DG
PV2 Lane Valentine Bartz
PFC Landon Scott Carter
PV2 Adam Lee Gonzalez
PV2 Hailey Marie Hearn
Fitzritson Eglon Ingram Jr.
PFC Thalia Mercedez Windley
PV2 Stephanie Marie WrightClass 002-19
SPC Arron Donovan Arnold
SPC Dirk Lanakila Harber
PV2 Colton Montgomery Jones
SPC Christopher Wayne Moore
PV2 Joseph Stanley Moore
SPC Gary Nathan Salsgiver
SPC Iguere Serge Togo
SGT Christopher David Ventre
Class 501-19
PFC Marqies N.Burnett – DG
PV2 Cameron Jerome Lagace
PV2 Cameron D.Mathewson
PV2 Elbert Scott Self
PV2 Andrew James Smith
PV2 Joshua Hayden Templeton
PV2 Aaron Joseph Weaver
PV2 Charles Collin Willingham
AH-64 Armament/
Electrical/Avionic Systems
Repairer (15Y)Class 001-19
PV2 Raymond D.Coones-DG
PV2 Jesus Jhoel A.Calderon

PV2 Caleb Galen Boucher
PV2 Nickolaus Wyatt Chvojka
PV2 Michael W. Crawford Jr.
PV2 Alexzander Jay Everlen
PV2 Christopher A. Gonzalez
PFC Karson Gonzales
SPC Tarvaris Grant
SPC Kathryn Ann Peeples
PV2 Christopher Adrian SmithClass 002-19
PFC Cyle Justin P. Paulino-DG
PV2 Cameron Scott Elliott
PV2 Chris Gonzalez
PV2 Ethan James Hook
PV2 Nicholas Taylor Martin
PV2 Shawn Michael McCraith
PV2 Tyler Nicholas McDade
PFC Mateo Brendon McDonald
PV2 James Thomas Mettlach
PV2 James Stanton Miller
PV2 Derek Jonathan Olsen
PV2 Rashad Jamal Queen
Class 501-19
SPC Patrick Thomas Boring
PV2 Jarred Blake Cotton
SPC Joshua Andrew Dyer
SPC Joshua Lawrence Gibson
PV2 Robert Andrew Goad
PV2 Douglas Paul Koosman
PV2 Jaime L. Velazquez Jr.
PV2 David John L.Shackelford
SPC Cameron Avery Stanko
PFC Ethan Jarett White
DG: Distinguished Graduate
HG: Honor Graduate* = AAAA Member

UNMANNEDAIRCRAFTSYSTEMS (UAS)GRADUATIONSUAS REPAIRER
AAAA congratulates the following Army graduates of the
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Repairer Course, MOS 15E, at
Fort Huachuca, AZ.
Shadow UAS Repairer
Course10 Graduates, 09 May 2019
CPL Christian PerezCabral - DHG
SPC Connor P. Keegan - HG
SGT Kevin Aviles
SGT Garrett R. Keiper
PFC Osbaldo Robles
PV2 Devin C. Brown
PV2 Stephen A. Reed
PV2 Frank E. WoodPVT Jacob S. Newhart
PVT Edward J. Wilkins Jr.
DHG = Distinguished Honor
Graduate
HG = Honor Graduate

July 31, 2019

AAAA

NETWORK I RECOGNITION I VOICE I SUPPORT u

Industry News Announcements Related to Army Aviation Matters
Contracts – (From various sources.
An “*” by a company name indicates a small
business contract)

Editor’s note: Companies can send their
Army Aviation related news releases andinformation to editor@quad-a.org.

Improved Turbine Engine
Development Resumes

U.S. ARMY PHOTO

DynCorp International LLC, Fort Worth, TX,
was awarded a $129,666,053 modification
to contract W58RGZ-17-C-0011 for logistics
support services; work will be performed in
Fort Worth, with an estimated completion
date of May 31, 2020.

For 100 days, the Improved Turbine Engine
Program (ITEP) was in a holding pattern while
awaiting the conclusion of an official protest
by The Advanced Turbine Engine Company(ATEC) against the ITEP Engineering andManufacturing Development (EMD) contract
award to General Electric Aviation. The wait
ended on May 30, with the contract award
to GE Aviation for their T901 turbine engine
upheld as the Army’s Improved Turbine
Engine, a state-of-the-art 3,000 shaft
horsepower class turbine engine. With work
now able to continue, the next step for ITEP
in EMD will be reaching the Critical Design
Review in FY20 followed by the First Engine
to Test build completion in FY21.

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Sierra
Vista, AZ, was awarded a $163,588,331
cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Hunter
unmanned aircraft system fleet support
for operations, maintenance, engineering,
re-engineering and remanufacturing; work
will be performed in Sierra Vista, with anestimated completion date of May 9, 2020.
Rockwell Collins Inc., Cedar Rapids, IA,
was awarded a $49,114,577 firm-fixedprice contract for maintenance and overhaulof the display unit for the UH-60 Black Hawk
helicopter; work locations and funding will
be determined with each order, with anestimated completion date of June 3, 2024.

SIKORSKY COURTESY PHOTO

Lockheed Martin Flies
Unmanned Tech for First
Time

Lockheed Martin announced on June 6 it
has flown its Optionally Piloted Vehicle (OPV)
technology aboard a Sikorsky UH-60A Black
Hawk testbed helicopter for the first time. The
flight, which took place at Sikorsky’s West
Palm Beach facility in Florida on May 29th,
marked the official start of the flight trials
program for the OPV technology following
an earlier test aboard a S-76B Sikorsky
Autonomy Research Aircraft (SARA) testbed
helicopter. Lockheed said this was the firstfull authority fly-by-wire retrofit kit developedby Sikorsky that has completely removed
mechanical flight controls from the aircraft.
The UH-60A will continue flight-envelope
expansion trials to the third quarter of 2019.
ARMY AVIATION Magazine

International Enterprises Inc., Talladega,
AL, was awarded a $24,500,000 firmfixed-price contract for depot level repairof the Aviator Night Vision Heads-Up
Display family of repairable assemblies andsubassemblies; work locations and funding
will be determined with each order, with anestimated completion date of May 30, 2029.

S.B. Ballard Construction Co., Virginia
Beach, VA, was awarded a $40,457,981
firm-fixed-price contract for constructionof an aviation maintenance training facility;
work will be performed in Newport News, VA,
with an estimated completion date of Nov.
4, 2021.
The Boeing Co., Ridley Park, PA, wasawarded a $10,115,993 modification tocontract W58RGZ-17-C-0059 to support
CH-47F Block II Engineering and Manufacturing Development program; work will be
performed in Ridley Park, with an estimatedcompletion date of July 27, 2021.
The Boeing Co., St. Louis, MO, was awarded
an $18,943,540 firm-fixed-price contract toimplement, integrate, test, upgrade and field
to the Longbow Crew Trainer Generation 4
and Generation 5; work will be performed in
St. Louis, with an estimated completion dateof April 1, 2022.

61

Upcoming Special Focus
2018 Blue Book Issue

NETWORK l RECOGNITION l VOICE l SUPPORT

August/September 2018

August/September
2019
Blue Book
Scholarship Winners

NETWORK l RECOGNITION l VOICE l SUPPORTOctober 31, 2018

October 2019
Aviation Survivability
Aviation Support
Aviation Soldier Support
Aviation Sustainment

Contact:
Bob Lachowski or
Erika Burgess

AAAAindustry@quad-a.org

203. 268.2450
ARMYAVIATIONmagazine.com

Advertisers Index
ALKAN....................................................26
Army Aviation Museum Foundation...........29
Arnold Defense........................................19
CAE Inc.....................................................1
Coastal Seat Cushions, Inc........................16
David Clark Company...............................27
DynCorp International...............................21
Esterline Avionics Systems........................11
Flight Safety International...........................9Garmin International Inc..............................2Inter-Coastal Electronics, Inc.....................13
L-3 Wescam Communications....................7
Meggitt Defense Systems.........................23
Northrop Grumman Corporation................64
Phantom Products, Inc.............................17
Science and Engineering Services, SES, Inc..15
SKEDCO, Inc............................................41
TRU Simulation & Training..........................5
Viasat......................................................25

July 31, 2019

Art’s

Attic

By Mark Albertson

Art’s Attic is a look back each issue at 25 and 50 years ago to see
what was going on in ARMY AVIATION Magazine. Contributing
editor Mark Albertson has selected a few key items from each
decade’s issues. Art Kesten is our founder and first publisher
from 1953 to 1987. He is also the founder of the AAAA in 1957
and served as its Executive Vice President. The cartoon, right,
was created back in 1953 by LT Joe Gayhart, a friend of Art’sand an Army Aviator, showing the chaos of his apartment-officein New York City where it all began.

25 Years Ago

50 Years Ago

July 31,1994

July 31, 1969

Briefings
Working under the U.S. Army/
NASA Advanced Rotorcraft
Transmission (ART) Program,
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter
Systems and Lucas Western Gear
have designed a 5,000-horsepowertransmission for the Apache attack
helicopter. This latest design is almost twice as powerful as the present transmission, but, weighsnearly half as much as it would if it were designed using existing
technology. The technology is applicable to virtually any conventional rotorcraft.

One Millionth Hour
Fort Wolters—WOC Richard E.
Adams (left), Class 69-3581, andCWO Larry R. Hanson, Flight
B-2, accept congratulations for
logging the 1,000,000th hour offlight time recorded for FY69;
the highest total yet recorded
in a single training year at the
USAPHS. Pictured at Dempsey Army heliport are (leftto right): Colonel John F. Roberts, Director of Training;
Major Ronald C. Clarke, Flight Safety; Candidate Adams;
CWO
Hanson;CaptainBrent J.` Artley, B-2 Flight
Commander; Colonel Lloyd G.
Huggins, Center Commander;and Lieutenant Colonel C.M.
Crain, Director of Flight
Department B. The new hourmark was established in an OH13 aircraft.

160th In Norway
An MH-47D, from the 2nd
Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment(Airborne), over a Norwegian fiord, March 1994.
Army Special Forces and the Navy
An MH-47 on the flight deck of the
USS George Washington (CVN-73),
during recent joint exercises with the
Navy and the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Help Wanted:
Pilots with Chinook or Vertol 107 experience... Primarily
for construction work throughout the United States,
including Alaska, Starting as co-pilots. Applicants shouldhave 1,000 hours minimum. Pilot for Hiller 12-E or SL-4…
Flying for Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management.
Job entails mountain flying, sling loads, fire patrol andsuppression, and personnel transportation. Applicant shouldhave at least 500 hours in the model and at least 1,000 hours
total helicopter time and be willing to travel. Send resume
to: ARMY AVIATION MAGAZINE, Attn: Box 9155,
Westport, Ct. 06880.

Briefings
The Aviation Applied Technology Directorate of the U.S.
Army has selected Simula Inc., to develop an airbag system
for the cockpit on the UH-60 Black Hawk. The order, valued at some $4 million, will see to the installation of airbags
in the instrument panel in an effort to reduce crewmember
injuries in the event of crashes.
West Point Grad

From USAAF to Army Aviator
Lieutenant Colonel Samuel P. Kalagian
graduated from the U.S. Army War College
in June of this year; this prior to assuming
the duties of Deputy Director of the
Department of Rotary Wing Training at
USAAVNS. LTC Kalagian, a World War II
fighter pilot, transferred to the Army in August 1950. He was
rated a Master Army Aviator in 1963.

The 1994 AAAA award for the Top West
Point Cadet who has branched Aviation
went to Cadet Spencer T. Kympton. MG
Richard E. Stephenson, (Ret.), AAAA
Senior V.P., presents Cadet Kympton
with a Certificate of Appreciation. Presentation was made at West Point, in theThayer Room, May 24, 1994.

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

62

July 31, 2019

Army Aviation

Hall of Fame
The Army Aviation Hallof Fame, sponsored by
the Army Aviation
Association of America,
Inc., recognizes thoseindividuals who have madean outstanding c­ ontribution
to Army ­Aviation.

The actual Hall of Fame
is located in the
Army Aviation Museum,
Fort Rucker, Ala.

The deadline fornominations for the2021 induction isJune 1, 2020

Contact the AAAA
National Office for details
and nomination forms at(203) 268-2450 or visit
www.quad-a.org

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

Major
Delbert L. Bristol
Army Aviation Hall of Fame 1976 Induction(Inducted to represent the 1942-1949 period)Major (later Colonel) Delbert L.
Bristol served as an Army Liaison
Pilot in the early test that established organic air observation in 1942.
After serving briefly on the faculty of the Department of Air Training,
Lieutenant Bristol left the continental U.S. with the first group of pilots
and aircraft mechanics deployed overseas in October 1942.
After his arrival in England, and during late 1942 while in North
Africa, he was the driving force in the organization of a combat zone
school that trained additional pilots and aircraft mechanics to meet
the Artillery’s combat aviation needs until replacements from Fort Sillbecame available in sufficient numbers.
While serving as the Artillery Air Officer for II Corps during theTunisian and Sicilian campaigns, Major Bristol directed and coordinatedthe employment of the Air Observation Posts [Pilot and Field Artillery
Observer teams in radio-equipped Piper L-4 Cubs] that later was
acclaimed as one of the great innovations of World War II. Calling on
his experience as First Army Artillery Air Officer in Northern Europe in
1944-45, he contributed in great measure to the success of the Air OP’sin combat.
In 1948-1949, while a Major on the Army General Staff inWashington, D.C., his negotiations in the Army Staff and with the
Air Force, sometimes against heavy odds, assured the foundation of the
Army’s organic aviation following the unification of the services.

63

July 31, 2019

ARMY AVIATION Magazine

64

July 31, 2019