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From the Chief of Infantry - National Infantry Association

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Spring 2005<br />

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL INFANTRY ASSOCIATION<br />

NONPROFIT ORG.<br />

U.S. POSTAGE<br />

PAID<br />

Marietta, GA<br />

PERMIT NO. 74<br />

www.infantryassn.com


NATIONAL INFANTRY<br />

ASSOCIATION OFFICERS<br />

President<br />

MG (Ret) Jerry A. White<br />

Secretary/Treasurer<br />

LTC (Ret) Mac Plummer<br />

Vice Presidents<br />

MG (Ret) Warren G. Lawson<br />

COL (Ret) Jose Feliciano<br />

COL (Ret) Ray Kauffman<br />

COL (Ret) Gary Jones<br />

CSM (Ret) David Libersat<br />

CSM (Ret) Eddie Roberts<br />

Directors<br />

MG (Ret) William B. Steele<br />

COL (Ret) Timothy D. Ringgold<br />

COL (Ret) Robert B. Simpson<br />

CSM (Ret) George R. Monk<br />

Mr. Jim Irvin<br />

Mr. Paul Voorhees<br />

Mr. Ben Williams<br />

Ex-Officio<br />

BG(P) Benjamin C. Freakley<br />

Staff Judge Advocate<br />

COL (Ret) Bob Poydasheff<br />

NIA STAFF<br />

Executive Director<br />

COL (Ret) Richard Nurnberg<br />

Programs and Awards Director<br />

Stephanie Seffernick<br />

Editor<br />

Doraine Bennett<br />

Non-Discrimination Statement<br />

Everything advertised in this publication must be made<br />

available for purchase, use, or patronage, without regard to<br />

<strong>the</strong> race, creed, color, sex, age, or national origin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

purchaser, user or patron.<br />

Cover: Photo courtesy <strong>of</strong> Paula Pagan, PAO, USAMU<br />

Copyright Notice: All materials submitted to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

Bugler become <strong>the</strong> property <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler. The<br />

author/photographer assigns all rights, including subsidiary<br />

rights, for <strong>the</strong> material. This includes rights to make or<br />

authorize reprints, to reprint <strong>the</strong> material in o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>National</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> publications, and to grant <strong>the</strong> materials<br />

to o<strong>the</strong>rs without charge for republication, all with<br />

appropriate credit to <strong>the</strong> submitter. The <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler, in<br />

return, grants <strong>the</strong> submitter <strong>the</strong> right <strong>of</strong> republication after<br />

original publication in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler, subject only to his<br />

giving proper credit to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler.<br />

The <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler is a quarterly publication produced by <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong>.<br />

Managing Editor: COL (Ret) Richard A. Nurnberg;<br />

Editor: Doraine Bennett.<br />

Publisher is SouthComm Publishing Co., Inc., 2600 Abbey<br />

Court, Alpharetta, GA 30004; southcomm@southcomm.com,<br />

telephone (678) 624-1075 or (800) 364-2034.<br />

For fur<strong>the</strong>r information regarding <strong>the</strong> contents <strong>of</strong> this<br />

publication, please contact Stephanie Seffernick at <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong>, <strong>Infantry</strong> Bugler, PO Box 2823,<br />

Columbus, GA 31902; email info@infantryassn.com;<br />

telephone (706) 323-2560 or (888) 224-7419. For<br />

advertising information, contact Sarah Weikert,<br />

sarah.weikert@comcast.net, or by phone at (678) 297-3978.<br />

CONTENTS<br />

★ Feature ★<br />

U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit: What Can They Do For You?..........................................8<br />

<strong>From</strong> Casing to Clip..........................................................................................................9<br />

★ Articles ★<br />

The Combat <strong>Infantry</strong>man’s Badge: A Cherished Emblem ..................................................5<br />

<strong>From</strong> PEO Soldier: Integrated Sites—A Leap Ahead ......................................................14<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Hero: CPL Aaron “Harry” Yamin........................................................................16<br />

History <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Branch Insignia ..........................................................................18<br />

★ Departments ★<br />

Message from <strong>the</strong> President and Executive Director ..........................................................4<br />

Notes from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> – Modularity ................................................................6<br />

Museum Update..............................................................................................................15<br />

News and Awards............................................................................................................19<br />

Letters<br />

to <strong>the</strong> Editor<br />

Dear Editor:<br />

I read <strong>the</strong> article about <strong>the</strong> proposed rifle, <strong>the</strong> XM8. The characteristics being<br />

evaluated reminded me <strong>of</strong> my experience with <strong>the</strong> M-14 in <strong>the</strong> 1960s. While a bit<br />

heavy, it performed solidly, accurately and with plenty <strong>of</strong> power. The reliability <strong>of</strong> its<br />

action certainly is something that should be emulated in <strong>the</strong> replacement for <strong>the</strong><br />

M-16. I’d love to see if I could fire “expert” with <strong>the</strong> XM8 should some veterans be<br />

included in an evaluative test firing at Fort Benning. A bit unorthodox, but such a<br />

test could make useful comparisons.<br />

Sincerely,<br />

John R. Carr<br />

Call for Submissions<br />

Do you have an opinion concerning one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> stories in this issue?<br />

We would like to print your responses in our Letters to <strong>the</strong> Editor column.<br />

Have you researched a topic that is <strong>of</strong> interest to <strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers?<br />

Submit it to us as an article for <strong>the</strong> Bugler. Do you have personal<br />

experiences or valuable lessons learned that would benefit o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

readers? Let us be your vehicle for delivering those thoughts. Send your<br />

submissions to dbennett@infantryassn.com.<br />

www.infantryassn.com 3


4<br />

MESSAGES<br />

<strong>From</strong> <strong>the</strong> President and <strong>the</strong> Executive Director<br />

Again, as it has been for <strong>the</strong><br />

past 230 years, our great<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers stand toe-totoe<br />

with <strong>the</strong> enemies <strong>of</strong> our<br />

nation and alongside those<br />

nations in search <strong>of</strong> democracy<br />

around <strong>the</strong> world. In IRAQ and<br />

Afghanistan, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>man is<br />

<strong>the</strong> vanguard for freedom and<br />

MG (Ret) Jerry A. White <strong>the</strong> hope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> oppressed. The<br />

recent successful elections in<br />

Iraq would not have been possible without <strong>the</strong> grunt who once<br />

more proved that he owns <strong>the</strong> last 100 yards <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fight. It has<br />

been this way since <strong>the</strong> Revolutionary War and will be this way as<br />

long as <strong>the</strong>re are those who attempt to impose <strong>the</strong>ir will on o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />

Over <strong>the</strong> years many <strong>of</strong> us have questioned what has made our<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers so special. Why do <strong>the</strong>se young men accomplish<br />

what many believe are nearly impossible feats <strong>of</strong> commitment and<br />

bravery? It was not uncommon during <strong>the</strong> Civil War for young<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers to risk <strong>the</strong>ir lives time and time again to save <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

buddy or to accomplish what would seem to be an impossible feat.<br />

In every war since <strong>the</strong>n, <strong>the</strong>se acts <strong>of</strong> heroism have been<br />

commonplace. I am not sure we have <strong>the</strong> answer, even those <strong>of</strong> us<br />

who have led <strong>the</strong>se brave Americans soldiers in both peace and<br />

war. But, we do understand that America is a value-based nation,<br />

and <strong>the</strong> notion <strong>of</strong> duty, honor and country are instilled in each <strong>of</strong><br />

us at a very early age — <strong>the</strong> spirit <strong>of</strong> don’t tread on me or my flag is<br />

ever present.<br />

However, none <strong>of</strong> this would be possible without proper<br />

training. Our young <strong>Infantry</strong>men are <strong>the</strong> best-trained (and<br />

equipped) soldiers in <strong>the</strong> world and this is a combat multiplier.<br />

Fort Benning stands as <strong>the</strong> Mecca for preparing young men to do<br />

what this nation expects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m. <strong>From</strong> initial entry training<br />

through all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> courses taught <strong>the</strong>re <strong>the</strong> standards are constant<br />

— train to fight and train to win. My hat goes <strong>of</strong>f to <strong>the</strong> great <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />

and NCO trainers who are responsible for this world-class<br />

accomplishment. They are <strong>the</strong> unsung heroes who make winning<br />

<strong>the</strong> last 100 yards <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fight possible.<br />

Those <strong>of</strong> us who have <strong>the</strong> privilege <strong>of</strong> continuing our<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>essional association with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> and Fort Benning through<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> want to express our deepest<br />

appreciation to <strong>the</strong> great <strong>Infantry</strong>men who today stand in harm’s<br />

way as well as those who are preparing <strong>the</strong>se young Americans to<br />

protect <strong>the</strong> freedoms we all enjoy. One team — one fight!!<br />

HOOAH!<br />

We <strong>of</strong>ten say that chapters are<br />

<strong>the</strong> lifeblood <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>National</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> (NIA),<br />

because <strong>the</strong>ir activities not only<br />

encourage people at <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

locations to join, but promote<br />

<strong>the</strong> name <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Association</strong> and<br />

<strong>the</strong> reputation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> branch.<br />

That is why we refund 25% <strong>of</strong><br />

COL (Ret) Richard Nurnberg<br />

quarterly membership dues to<br />

active chapters that submit<br />

quarterly meeting minutes.<br />

We have some wonderful recent examples <strong>of</strong> such activities: An<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Ball by <strong>the</strong> West Point Chapter to celebrate <strong>the</strong> branching<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cadets <strong>the</strong>re; an “Endurathon” by The Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals Chapter<br />

at Fort Knox (about which you will read more in <strong>the</strong> next issue),<br />

supported by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> Armor; and <strong>the</strong> reactivation and a<br />

multiple Order <strong>of</strong> St. Maurice presentation by <strong>the</strong> Pegasus Chapter<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> First Cavalry Division in Iraq. I’m sure <strong>the</strong>re are o<strong>the</strong>r equally<br />

impressive examples, too many to list <strong>the</strong>m all here.<br />

The point is that <strong>the</strong> NIA currently has 85 chartered chapters,<br />

<strong>of</strong> which only 41 are in an active status. But many <strong>of</strong> our members<br />

are at locations where <strong>the</strong>re are inactive chapters or where chapters<br />

are in an active status but conduct no activities. If you are among<br />

<strong>the</strong>se members, I ask you to consider helping to reactivate and/or<br />

reinvigorate your chapter. You will<br />

find that you will get more out <strong>of</strong><br />

your membership in <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Association</strong>, but both <strong>the</strong> NIA and<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> will also benefit.<br />

The NIA has had a new silk<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> necktie (pictured at right)<br />

designed and manufactured, and it<br />

is available through <strong>the</strong><br />

merchandise link on our website,<br />

along with o<strong>the</strong>r fine items. Please<br />

check out <strong>the</strong> NIA merchandise<br />

shown <strong>the</strong>re.<br />

Finally, as always, I ask your<br />

help in increasing our membership,<br />

and in finding interesting new<br />

material to print in our publication.<br />

We should all be proud <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> role<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> has played in securing<br />

freedom and <strong>the</strong> right to vote for<br />

Iraqis, Afghans and o<strong>the</strong>rs around<br />

<strong>the</strong> world — including our own<br />

American citizens.


The Combat <strong>Infantry</strong>man’s<br />

Badge: A Cherished Emblem<br />

By Robert B. Simpson<br />

It had not been a good war so far. The nation, still mired in <strong>the</strong><br />

Depression and addicted to its isolationist tendencies, had been jolted<br />

into a war on opposite sides <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world that it was utterly unprepared<br />

to fight. Trying desperately to build its military forces almost from<br />

scratch and mobilize its industrial capacity from near idle to warp<br />

speed, while producing positive results in battles across <strong>the</strong> globe with<br />

two powerful enemies, had required all <strong>the</strong> country’s strength. Now, in<br />

1943, <strong>the</strong> astounding cost <strong>of</strong> fighting <strong>the</strong> worldwide conflict was<br />

beginning to be fully felt. And <strong>the</strong> end seemed to be nowhere in sight.<br />

In just less than two years <strong>of</strong> war, America had seen <strong>the</strong> nighttime<br />

along its Eastern seaboard illuminated by <strong>the</strong> light <strong>of</strong> ships set ablaze by<br />

marauding German U-boats. It had read with pain <strong>the</strong> mounting lists <strong>of</strong><br />

its youth killed or maimed in air, ground and naval operations<br />

conducted in every quarter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> globe.<br />

In <strong>the</strong> China-Burma-India <strong>the</strong>ater, sparse groups <strong>of</strong> Americans,<br />

allied with British, Australians and Chinese, fought <strong>the</strong> Japanese under<br />

primitive, grueling conditions. In North Africa, II Corps, after a<br />

humiliating defeat by Rommel’s German forces at Kasserine Pass, had<br />

recovered and performed creditably. Soon after, Patton’s American and<br />

Montgomery’s British forces took Sicily.<br />

In <strong>the</strong> Pacific, MacArthur had begun his torturous island-hopping<br />

course out <strong>of</strong> Australia toward <strong>the</strong> Philippines and Japan. This was<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> warfare at its most brutal, as Japanese soldiers defended <strong>the</strong><br />

jungle-clad islands that stood between <strong>the</strong> South Pacific and Japan.<br />

It was clear at this point that large numbers <strong>of</strong> well-trained<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>men would be needed to fight this war that had not even begun<br />

to reach its peak <strong>of</strong> activity, and <strong>the</strong> Army was already woefully short <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers and appeared likely to remain so. Young men were not<br />

breaking down doors trying to get into <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>.<br />

The <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> Staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army, GEN George C. Marshall, had<br />

served as an <strong>Infantry</strong>man in France in World War I. He had been <strong>the</strong><br />

Assistant Commandant <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> School at Fort Benning, Ga. He<br />

understood and had a special affection for <strong>Infantry</strong>men. Thus, even<br />

more than o<strong>the</strong>r senior leaders might have been, he was extremely<br />

receptive to anything that would, without denigrating o<strong>the</strong>r arms and<br />

services, enhance and honor <strong>the</strong> harsh and too <strong>of</strong>ten deadly existence <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> combat <strong>Infantry</strong>man, <strong>the</strong> only soldier whose unvarying job it is to<br />

seize and hold terrain by closing with and destroying <strong>the</strong> enemy in<br />

close combat.<br />

<strong>From</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

At <strong>the</strong> same time, he was well aware that what <strong>the</strong>se soldiers had<br />

been called upon to do so far in <strong>the</strong> war had barely scratched <strong>the</strong><br />

surface; <strong>the</strong>y would be called upon to do far more for far longer periods<br />

before this war finally ground to a successful conclusion.<br />

By mid-1943, it was clear that <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>, although a small<br />

portion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> entire Army, was doing 70 percent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fighting and<br />

dying. A survey showed, not surprisingly in such circumstances, that<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> was by far <strong>the</strong> least popular <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> branches <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army.<br />

Very few men were eager to become a part <strong>of</strong> an organization that not<br />

only provided a very strong possibility <strong>of</strong> losing one’s life, but that<br />

<strong>of</strong>fered little but misery in <strong>the</strong> process.<br />

Creature comforts for <strong>Infantry</strong>men on <strong>the</strong> battlefield ranged from<br />

few to none. And perhaps worst <strong>of</strong> all, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>men felt<br />

unappreciated. O<strong>the</strong>r branches seemed to get publicity and glory, if<br />

<strong>the</strong>re was any, while <strong>the</strong> unsung <strong>Infantry</strong>men lived miserably and<br />

died violently.<br />

Out <strong>of</strong> this background <strong>of</strong> sacrifice and death, with a consciousness<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> desperate need for more fighters, came <strong>the</strong> birth <strong>of</strong> a badge that<br />

would be awarded exclusively to <strong>Infantry</strong>men who had fought against<br />

an armed enemy in ground combat.<br />

LG Lesley J. McNair pushed <strong>the</strong> idea. Marshall was an easy sell.<br />

Marshall’s civilian boss, Secretary <strong>of</strong> War Henry Stinson, also was<br />

enthusiastic. Stinson, who had served as an <strong>of</strong>ficer in World War I and<br />

much preferred <strong>the</strong> title <strong>of</strong> “Colonel” to that <strong>of</strong> “Mr. Secretary,” was<br />

eager to see combat <strong>Infantry</strong>men, who did so much <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dirty work<br />

and got so little recognition, be singled out for this commendation.<br />

The Combat <strong>Infantry</strong>man’s Badge (CIB) and its sibling, <strong>the</strong> Expert<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>man’s Badge (EIB), were born toge<strong>the</strong>r in October 1943. But it<br />

quickly became obvious that <strong>the</strong> EIB, significant though it was in<br />

denoting a high level <strong>of</strong> skill and pr<strong>of</strong>iciency, would never achieve <strong>the</strong><br />

mystique <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> CIB.<br />

The silver musket on a field <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> blue, partially surrounded<br />

by a silver wreath <strong>of</strong> laurel leaves, became a cherished emblem, a sign<br />

to <strong>the</strong> outside world that <strong>the</strong> wearer is a member <strong>of</strong> a band <strong>of</strong> bro<strong>the</strong>rs<br />

unlike any o<strong>the</strong>r. Few would casually choose to learn what must be<br />

learned, to live <strong>the</strong> life that must be lived, and to undergo <strong>the</strong> extreme<br />

stress and danger that must be undergone to join this bro<strong>the</strong>rhood. Yet<br />

many <strong>Infantry</strong>men will admit, if only to <strong>the</strong>mselves, that once having<br />

earned <strong>the</strong> CIB, <strong>the</strong>y would surrender any o<strong>the</strong>r form <strong>of</strong> recognition<br />

before <strong>the</strong>y would willingly part with this distinguished decoration.<br />

While <strong>the</strong> regulations governing <strong>the</strong> award <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> CIB have been<br />

modified several times over <strong>the</strong> years, <strong>the</strong> overall thrust remains<br />

remarkably close to <strong>the</strong> original. The award can be made only to<br />

enlisted soldiers and warrant <strong>of</strong>ficers with an <strong>Infantry</strong> or Special Forces<br />

MOS, or <strong>Infantry</strong> or Special Forces <strong>of</strong>ficers in <strong>the</strong> grade <strong>of</strong> colonel or<br />

below. The recipient <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> award also must be assigned or attached to<br />

an element <strong>of</strong> a brigade/regiment or a unit <strong>of</strong> smaller size, which is<br />

actively engaged against an enemy.<br />

<strong>From</strong> time to time, an effort springs up to dilute <strong>the</strong> prestige <strong>of</strong> this<br />

special emblem by awarding it to soldiers who are not <strong>Infantry</strong>men<br />

continued on page 7<br />

www.infantryassn.com 5


6<br />

Modularity<br />

NECESSITY FOR SURVIVAL<br />

By BG(P) Benjamin C. Freakley,<br />

<strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

The ongoing transformation in <strong>the</strong> Army<br />

is part <strong>of</strong> an evolutionary process that all<br />

armies must undergo if <strong>the</strong>y — and <strong>the</strong><br />

nations <strong>the</strong>y serve — are to survive.<br />

History is full <strong>of</strong> examples where <strong>the</strong><br />

nation that adapted <strong>the</strong> fastest to change<br />

won <strong>the</strong> war.<br />

Prior to America’s entry into World War I, we had to transform a<br />

108,000-man army <strong>of</strong> regulars and national guardsmen into what<br />

would be a two million-man expeditionary force. At <strong>the</strong> same time<br />

we had to train <strong>the</strong> force in <strong>the</strong> techniques <strong>of</strong> 20th century warfare,<br />

which <strong>the</strong> Army did by studying <strong>the</strong> tactics and techniques, as well<br />

as <strong>the</strong> successes and failures, <strong>of</strong> our allies and our enemies.<br />

The lessons <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> World War I were not forgotten. Since <strong>the</strong>n<br />

<strong>the</strong> Army has continually evolved new tactics, techniques, procedures<br />

and organizations to better respond to potential or current threats.<br />

Today’s transformation, which includes reorganization into a modular<br />

force, is a continuation <strong>of</strong> that process.<br />

We are a nation at war. The global war on terrorism has revealed<br />

<strong>the</strong> diversity and resourcefulness <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> enemy. To anticipate and<br />

counter such an enemy, we must be able to deploy lethal, effective,<br />

sustainable units with <strong>the</strong> right capabilities anywhere in <strong>the</strong> world,<br />

and we must be able to do it even faster than we have in <strong>the</strong> past.<br />

The division-based organizations <strong>of</strong> our earlier force projection have<br />

required us to deploy sometimes hastily task-organized brigadesized<br />

units — that may or may not have extensively trained toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />

— for <strong>the</strong> missions <strong>the</strong>y were about to undertake.<br />

We are moving towards being a brigade-based tactical fighting<br />

organization, which is to some extent analogous — but not identical<br />

— to <strong>the</strong> Army’s earlier separate brigades with which we are familiar.<br />

Each had its own mix <strong>of</strong> combat, combat support and combat<br />

service support elements that enabled it to fight and sustain itself.<br />

The modular brigade combat team (BCT) is designed to be a<br />

complete, combat-ready organization that receives additional task<br />

organized capabilities as needed, in country. Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> five types<br />

<strong>of</strong> supporting brigades (Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target<br />

Acquisition; Aviation; Sustainment; Fires; and Maneuver<br />

Enhancement) have relatively fixed organizations while o<strong>the</strong>rs have<br />

core command and control (C2) and support capabilities that are<br />

augmented by specialized battalions or companies based on mission<br />

analysis. All are able to assimilate additional task-organized elements<br />

as needed.<br />

Joint capabilities are absolutely essential to <strong>the</strong> success <strong>of</strong><br />

modularity, and <strong>the</strong> BCT organizational design has been built to<br />

capitalize on this through C2 networks, intelligence ga<strong>the</strong>ring<br />

capabilities and better integration <strong>of</strong> tactical air control parties<br />

(TACP). The new modular organizations provide a mix <strong>of</strong> land<br />

combat power that is task organized for any combination <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fensive,<br />

defensive, stability or support operations as part <strong>of</strong> a joint campaign.<br />

Success in tactical operations is based upon securing or retaining <strong>the</strong><br />

initiative and exercising it aggressively to defeat <strong>the</strong> enemy. A core<br />

concept for <strong>the</strong> modular force is to organize, train, deploy and fight as a<br />

combined arms team that is inherently joint.<br />

The division, corps and Army headquarters are being condensed into<br />

two more flexible headquarters, currently called <strong>the</strong> UEx and UEy. The<br />

UEx has no fixed organizational structure outside <strong>of</strong> its requirements to<br />

man and equip <strong>the</strong> command posts, and provide support for <strong>the</strong><br />

commander. The UEx gives up some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> tactical warfighting<br />

responsibilities to <strong>the</strong> BCTs, while gaining some Corps responsibilities.<br />

BCTs are associated with a home station UEx for training,<br />

deployment and reach back, and can deploy with this UEx as <strong>the</strong> higher<br />

headquarters for combat. However, <strong>the</strong>y are just as likely to deploy with<br />

BCTs and supporting brigades from various locations. In <strong>the</strong> cases where<br />

BCTs deploy separately from <strong>the</strong>ir home station UEx <strong>the</strong>y are task<br />

organized to a UEx or JTF HQs designated for a given area <strong>of</strong> operations,<br />

based on a regional combatant commander’s METT-TC analysis.<br />

The Army is moving from multiple types <strong>of</strong> ground maneuver<br />

brigades to just three Tables <strong>of</strong> Organization and Equipment (TOE)<br />

organizations: <strong>the</strong> Stryker BCT (SBCT), <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> BCT (IBCT) and <strong>the</strong><br />

Heavy BCT (HBCT). While we will not fully discuss <strong>the</strong> details <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

significant changes we are seeing within <strong>the</strong> Heavy and <strong>Infantry</strong> BCTs in<br />

this note, it is important to highlight some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> organic combat, combat<br />

support and combat service support capabilities.<br />

These units no longer are task organized to a brigade; <strong>the</strong>y are<br />

assigned to <strong>the</strong> BCT. (Task organization still occurs, both within and from<br />

outside <strong>the</strong> BCT; however, this is not as common as it was before <strong>the</strong><br />

transformation.) The modular brigade yields big benefits in teamwork,<br />

cohesion and effectiveness, but requires additional focus and effort in<br />

individual, crew and small-unit collective training. As an example, an air<br />

assault brigade today has roughly<br />

60 Military Occupational<br />

Specialties (MOS) in it, while <strong>the</strong> We are going<br />

IBCT has more than 100.<br />

through a significant<br />

More is to be expected <strong>of</strong> our<br />

leaders! I recognize that to support change across <strong>the</strong><br />

this we at <strong>the</strong> home <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> entire Army, not<br />

must develop better training<br />

simply within <strong>the</strong><br />

methodologies, both within <strong>the</strong><br />

institution and for home station, <strong>Infantry</strong>. Our entire<br />

to include distance learning and structure <strong>of</strong> systems<br />

Mobile Training Teams.<br />

is being reevaluated<br />

Although organized with<br />

different equipment and MOSs, to determine how we<br />

<strong>the</strong> two BCTs look essentially <strong>the</strong> can better support<br />

same. Each has a staff with<br />

<strong>the</strong> warfighter.<br />

increased functional capability


and a deputy commanding <strong>of</strong>ficer (DCO). Each has a brigade support<br />

battalion (3 companies plus an HHC), a Fires Battalion (2x8 105 or<br />

155), a reconnaissance battalion or squadron (3 companies/troops) and<br />

two maneuver battalions. (A third maneuver battalion is projected in<br />

<strong>the</strong> future.)<br />

The <strong>Infantry</strong> battalion consists <strong>of</strong> three rifle companies, a weapons<br />

company and an HHC. The combined arms battalion has two armor, two<br />

Bradley, one engineer and an HHC. Each maneuver battalion also has a<br />

10-man sniper section within its HHC. Each <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se battalions has a<br />

dedicated forward support company (transportation and maintenance),<br />

which, although assigned to <strong>the</strong> BSB, will habitually train, deploy and<br />

fight with a specific battalion.<br />

The two BCTs also have a new organization called <strong>the</strong> brigade troops<br />

battalion (BTB). The BTB has separate companies and platoons assigned<br />

to it for administrative and logistics support, plus individual and<br />

collective training responsibilities. Sub units include <strong>the</strong> battalion HHC,<br />

MI Company, Network Company, MP Platoon and Chemical Platoon. The<br />

IBCT BTB also has an organic Engineer Company. All assets within <strong>the</strong><br />

BTB (minus <strong>the</strong> BTB HHC) provide support to <strong>the</strong> BCT; however, <strong>the</strong><br />

BTB commander and staff give <strong>the</strong> BCT commander options on how he<br />

organizes <strong>the</strong> battlefield.<br />

A core function <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> BTB is to provide logistical support to any<br />

element <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> BCT that is not task organized to a BCT battalion. The<br />

BTB also assumes o<strong>the</strong>r roles, such as monitoring assigned areas <strong>of</strong><br />

operation, conducting security operations if task organized with<br />

additional combat power, co-locating with <strong>the</strong> main command post or<br />

acting as an alternate CP, to name a few.<br />

The HBCT has a three-troop reconnaissance squadron (M3/HMMWV<br />

mix) and <strong>the</strong> IBCT has a three-company reconnaissance battalion<br />

(HMMWV, mounted and dismounted capability). This gives <strong>the</strong> BCT<br />

Commander a tremendous capability to conduct intelligence, surveillance<br />

and reconnaissance missions, and reflects <strong>the</strong> shift <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> old<br />

division capabilities to <strong>the</strong> BCT.<br />

We see <strong>the</strong> threat sooner and more precisely from units organic to <strong>the</strong><br />

BCT. When coupled with higher joint and national intelligence feeds, we<br />

can verify, synchronize efforts and, if required, engage <strong>the</strong> enemy more<br />

quickly with internal, UEx, or joint assets. Additionally, we have<br />

redundant means to get accurate battle damage assessment. The<br />

capability for fast and accurate sensor-to-shooter information sharing is<br />

better enabled by <strong>the</strong> modular design.<br />

The BCT staff now contains assigned expertise that in <strong>the</strong> past was<br />

nonexistent or had to be task organized to <strong>the</strong> brigade. Examples include<br />

<strong>the</strong> addition <strong>of</strong> MP, Civil Affairs, PSYOP, PA and IO personnel, plus <strong>the</strong><br />

staff has formalized cells to perform functions that in <strong>the</strong> past were ad<br />

hoc, at best. These include an Air Defense Airspace Management (A2C2)<br />

cell, a Brigade Aviation Element, and a Fires and Effects Cell.<br />

The XO can focus on staff integration and synchronization, while<br />

<strong>the</strong> DCO can focus leadership in o<strong>the</strong>r areas as directed by <strong>the</strong><br />

Commander. The BCT Commander has more flexibility in how he sets<br />

up his Main CP, TAC CP and Command Group. A command and<br />

control system that includes networked information systems, combined<br />

with advanced sensors and better analysis and information management,<br />

allows <strong>the</strong> Commander to see, understand and share tactical information<br />

more rapidly.<br />

We are going through a significant change across <strong>the</strong> entire Army, not<br />

simply within <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>. Our entire structure <strong>of</strong> systems is being<br />

reevaluated to determine how we can better support <strong>the</strong> warfighter. We<br />

are updating doctrine and developing better training methodologies,<br />

refining <strong>the</strong> TOE organization to give <strong>the</strong> Commander what he needs to<br />

accomplish <strong>the</strong> mission, changing POIs for leadership development,<br />

and stabilizing <strong>the</strong> force so units can train as a team and remain in a<br />

high state <strong>of</strong> readiness for extended periods <strong>of</strong> time. As new<br />

technologies and materiel become available, BCTs will be gradually<br />

upgraded over time.<br />

The Army is changing for <strong>the</strong> better. Support <strong>of</strong> modularity efforts<br />

complements <strong>the</strong> priority <strong>of</strong> supporting <strong>the</strong> global war on terrorism.<br />

History has repeatedly taught us that wars are won and nations<br />

preserved by capably led, quality soldiers who are trained to standard.<br />

The individual soldier and his leaders always have been <strong>the</strong> key to<br />

victory and will continue to be so as long as freedom endures. This is<br />

where <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> excels and where we strive for continuous<br />

improvement. The success <strong>of</strong> our modularity initiatives requires focus,<br />

discipline and dedication, three areas in which <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> has<br />

consistently led <strong>the</strong> way. I am proud <strong>of</strong> you and our Army; we are<br />

setting <strong>the</strong> standard. Follow Me!<br />

continued from page 5<br />

who, under military necessity, have performed duties in combat<br />

similar to those performed by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>. It is understandable<br />

that commanders would want to see <strong>the</strong>ir people properly<br />

recognized for performing on <strong>the</strong> ground, in actual combat against<br />

an enemy, in a manner that <strong>the</strong>y see as consistent with that <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>. In most cases, <strong>the</strong>ir efforts to award those outside <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> have been wisely repulsed or at least corrected.<br />

There is a human tendency, or perhaps just an American one,<br />

to democratize and spread things that are good as broadly as<br />

possible, and in so doing destroy <strong>the</strong>ir uniqueness and weaken<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir value. It seems obvious that proliferation <strong>of</strong> an incomparable<br />

and prestigious honor certainly is not likely to enhance its renown<br />

but is, instead, almost certain to diminish it.<br />

And yet misguided efforts to prostitute <strong>the</strong> CIB continue to<br />

surface from time to time. Those who resist such efforts do so not<br />

because <strong>the</strong>y have no sympathy for <strong>the</strong>ir fellow soldiers, nor<br />

because <strong>the</strong>y believe such soldiers to be somehow less worthy.<br />

Indeed, should such non-<strong>Infantry</strong> soldiers wish to transfer into <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>, placing <strong>the</strong>mselves in <strong>the</strong> line <strong>of</strong> fire and in <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>tenmiserable<br />

lifestyle <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> not just for a finite period but for<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir entire military future, <strong>Infantry</strong> commanders would be proud<br />

to accept <strong>the</strong>m.<br />

No, those who resist <strong>the</strong> dilution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> CIB are about what<br />

is bought in blood by generations <strong>of</strong> soldiers, a connection with<br />

those grimy heroes who slogged through Normandy and froze at<br />

<strong>the</strong> Bulge, who sacrificed with Task Force Smith and <strong>the</strong>n broke<br />

out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> perimeter at Pusan. They treasure <strong>the</strong> kinship <strong>of</strong><br />

today’s <strong>Infantry</strong>men with those who fought in Vietnam and in a<br />

dozen deadly trouble spots around <strong>the</strong> world and who continue<br />

to sacrifice in Afghanistan and Iraq.<br />

Those who wear <strong>the</strong> CIB revere it as an emblem that marks<br />

<strong>the</strong>m as special foot soldiers in <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> queen <strong>of</strong><br />

battle. The exceptional bond thus forged, though mystical, is no<br />

less real. For <strong>the</strong> good <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>man, <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army, and <strong>of</strong><br />

America, it must not be weakened.<br />

Robert B. Simpson is a retired Colonel and <strong>Infantry</strong> combat<br />

veteran, now a freelance writer. He lives in Midland, Ga.<br />

www.infantryassn.com 7


8<br />

FEATURE<br />

By Doraine Bennett<br />

United States Army<br />

Marksmanship<br />

Unit: WHAT CAN THEY<br />

DO FOR YOU?<br />

The 3ID deployed with 240 new Designated Marksman rifles built by <strong>the</strong> USAMU.<br />

When <strong>the</strong> 3rd <strong>Infantry</strong> Division deployed to Iraq in January, every squad<br />

included a designated marksman equipped with what appears to be a<br />

standard M16 rifle. The weapon may look <strong>the</strong> same on <strong>the</strong> outside, but<br />

underneath <strong>the</strong> front rail system, a heavier fluted barrel cuts down<br />

vibration so <strong>the</strong> bullet wobbles less as it leaves <strong>the</strong> gun. The new twostage<br />

match trigger is tuned to <strong>the</strong> same standards used in competition<br />

shooting at <strong>the</strong> Olympics. The result is sniper-like accuracy for one<br />

soldier in each squad — a soldier who, on <strong>the</strong> surface, appears no<br />

different than any o<strong>the</strong>r to <strong>the</strong> enemy.<br />

When soldiers from <strong>the</strong> 3ID shot with <strong>the</strong> U.S. Army Marksmanship<br />

Unit (USAMU) at <strong>the</strong> Army Championships in <strong>the</strong> summer <strong>of</strong> 2003, <strong>the</strong>y<br />

returned to <strong>the</strong>ir unit convinced that <strong>the</strong> improved competition rifles met<br />

an operational need.<br />

LTC John Charlton, who was <strong>the</strong> commander <strong>of</strong> 1-15 INF, 3ID on<br />

Kelly Hill at <strong>the</strong> time, was impressed with <strong>the</strong> demo rifle his scout<br />

platoon leader brought back from USAMU. “Based on my experiences as<br />

a Battalion Task Force commander in OIF1, I thought <strong>the</strong>se rifles would<br />

The target on <strong>the</strong> right shows <strong>the</strong> 26-inch shot spread<br />

from 3ID rifles before <strong>the</strong> USAMU reworked <strong>the</strong>m.<br />

On <strong>the</strong> left is an eight-inch target spread from <strong>the</strong><br />

rebuilt Designated Marksman rifle.<br />

provide a great capability in combat and that we should begin a test<br />

program in 1-15 INF,” Charlton said.<br />

MG William Webster, Commanding General for <strong>the</strong> 3ID, supported<br />

<strong>the</strong> test program and <strong>the</strong> unit began sending rifles to USAMU for<br />

conversion. USAMU converted 22 rifles, which meant one per rifle squad<br />

plus one for each spotter in <strong>the</strong> battalion sniper section. Based on<br />

successful fielding and training in 1-15 INF, <strong>the</strong> 3ID requested fielding<br />

across <strong>the</strong> division. The request went all <strong>the</strong> way up to <strong>the</strong> Army G3 and<br />

was approved in September 2003. USAMU immediately began building<br />

rifles, and a total <strong>of</strong> 240 went with <strong>the</strong> 3ID when <strong>the</strong>y left for Iraq earlier<br />

this year.<br />

The USAMU usually receives publicity for outstanding competition<br />

performance. This year <strong>the</strong> unit won every military rifle event in interservice<br />

competition up through <strong>the</strong> 1,000-yard matches. They shot<br />

against 70 challenging teams from o<strong>the</strong>r services to achieve <strong>the</strong> record<br />

and fulfill <strong>the</strong> first tenet <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir mission statement — to win inter-service,<br />

national and international competitions. They sent seven shooters to <strong>the</strong><br />

2004 Olympics, and <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficial U. S. Olympic team gunsmith was a<br />

member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> USAMU.<br />

Less well-known, but perhaps <strong>of</strong> greater interest to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>man,<br />

is <strong>the</strong> final tenet in unit’s mission statement — to give <strong>the</strong> war fighter<br />

advanced marksmanship training, and perform research, development<br />

and prototyping for improving combat weapons.


Research and Development<br />

In accordance with this mission, gunsmiths and machinists in <strong>the</strong><br />

basement <strong>of</strong> USAMU’s headquarters at Fort Benning fine-tune firearms<br />

for exact levels <strong>of</strong> accuracy, eliminating every variable possible to<br />

improve <strong>the</strong> performance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rifles, pistols and ammunition. Barrels<br />

are machined and tooled in <strong>the</strong> gun shop to tolerances measured in<br />

hundredths <strong>of</strong> an inch. The weapons are handmade with <strong>the</strong> same<br />

materials used in standard Army issue guns, but <strong>the</strong> care and precision<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fitting and <strong>the</strong> intricate matching <strong>of</strong> parts produces a weapon that<br />

groups more accurately.<br />

The shot pattern at 600 yards from <strong>the</strong> rebuilt rifles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 3ID, using<br />

match-grade ammunition, was reduced to a quarter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> original shot<br />

group. With this degree <strong>of</strong> accuracy, a shooter aiming at a target has a<br />

more reasonable chance <strong>of</strong> hitting an enemy at twice <strong>the</strong> distance that<br />

soldiers are normally trained. “It’s <strong>the</strong> same rifle, it’s just fitted and better<br />

adjusted,” said LTC David Liwanag, Commander <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> USAMU. “It’s<br />

almost like NASCAR. All <strong>the</strong> improvements are under <strong>the</strong> hood.”<br />

The key combat capabilities Charlton and <strong>the</strong> 3ID were looking for<br />

in a rifle were:<br />

◆ Accuracy to 600+ meters.<br />

◆ A rifle based on an M16A4 — soldiers would be familiar with its<br />

operation and no specialty parts would be needed.<br />

◆ The ability to fire standard 5.56mm ball ammo as well as matchgrade<br />

5.56mm ammo.<br />

◆ A multi-function rifle useful in clearing rooms, alleys, etc., yet still<br />

able to hit long-range targets.<br />

◆ A low-power, versatile scope that would support short-range,<br />

reflexive shooting as well as long-range precision fire.<br />

The USAMU took lessons learned from competition to build <strong>the</strong><br />

Designated Marksman (DM) rifle Charlton needed. This process is<br />

nothing new for <strong>the</strong> USAMU. During <strong>the</strong> Vietnam War, almost 1,400<br />

competition M14 rifles became <strong>the</strong> Army sniper rifle.<br />

“What we hope is to keep showing that competition improvements<br />

can be cordoned and used for direct transfer into combat application. It<br />

doesn’t cost <strong>the</strong> army anything more because we’re doing this kind <strong>of</strong><br />

shooting anyway as part <strong>of</strong> our mission statement,” Liwanag explained.<br />

Designated marksmen SPC Michael Loveless and PFC David Kirk,<br />

with B Company <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1-15 INF, took a 10-day crash course at <strong>the</strong><br />

sniper school to prepare for deployment with <strong>the</strong> new DM rifle. “One<br />

<strong>of</strong> my favorite improvements on <strong>the</strong> weapon is <strong>the</strong> trigger squeeze,”<br />

Kirk said.<br />

The new rifle requires only 4.3 pounds <strong>of</strong> pressure to fire a round<br />

compared to seven pounds on <strong>the</strong> M16 trigger, allowing <strong>the</strong> shooter to<br />

focus on keeping his weapon steady. “I like it a lot,” Loveless said. “It’s<br />

easy to operate, easy to shoot. It’s really exciting to be able to shoot<br />

that far.”<br />

After training, Loveless and Kirk returned to <strong>the</strong>ir unit at Kelly Hill<br />

and began to pass along <strong>the</strong> techniques <strong>the</strong>y learned to o<strong>the</strong>rs in <strong>the</strong><br />

SFC Charles C<strong>of</strong>fey makes concentric openings in cartridges on <strong>the</strong> Dillon<br />

progressive press in AMU’s loading shop.<br />

<strong>From</strong> Casing to Clip<br />

By Doraine Bennett<br />

A soldier in <strong>the</strong> U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) loading<br />

shop measures bullets from <strong>the</strong> O joint, where <strong>the</strong> bullet starts to<br />

taper, to its point. The difference in length from bullet to bullet<br />

could be as little as 40 thousandths <strong>of</strong> an inch, but even this<br />

amount may change <strong>the</strong> way <strong>the</strong> bullet engages <strong>the</strong> lands inside<br />

<strong>the</strong> gun barrel. The soldier’s task is to determine whe<strong>the</strong>r this<br />

variation also could affect <strong>the</strong> accuracy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bullet downrange.<br />

Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> USAMU test every possible variable in <strong>the</strong><br />

components necessary to make one round <strong>of</strong> ammunition. Their<br />

goal is to determine which factors actually make <strong>the</strong> greatest<br />

difference in creating <strong>the</strong> most accurate product possible for<br />

shooters. “It’s a play on which variable we try to eliminate. Where<br />

do we get <strong>the</strong> most bang for our buck?” said SFC Charles C<strong>of</strong>fey,<br />

NCOIC, Parts Range. “We always keep an open mind and try new<br />

things, but what we have gotten it down to right now starts with<br />

<strong>the</strong> canister.”<br />

Brass canisters from army ammunition factories are sorted<br />

according to weight. Since external dimensions are <strong>the</strong> same, a<br />

weight difference indicates less volume internally for powder — a<br />

significant variable that will affect <strong>the</strong> impact downrange.<br />

After being weighed, each canister is placed in a Dillon<br />

progressive press that forces a die into <strong>the</strong> neck so that each<br />

opening is concentric. Then a trimmer trims both <strong>the</strong> inside and<br />

<strong>the</strong> outside, and cleans <strong>of</strong>f all burrs that might hinder <strong>the</strong> bullet<br />

from sliding smoothly into <strong>the</strong> casing.<br />

Once <strong>the</strong> case is prepped, <strong>the</strong> powder charge, measured to a<br />

tenth <strong>of</strong> a grain, can be dumped inside. The charge itself has been<br />

previously tested to determine what amount produces <strong>the</strong> greatest<br />

accuracy downrange.<br />

continued on page 11<br />

www.infantryassn.com 9


FEATURE<br />

company. They see this as part <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong>ir role as Designated<br />

Marksmen. “And <strong>the</strong> information<br />

flow goes up and down,” said<br />

SFC Earl Wilson, commander for<br />

B Company. “Both <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se guys<br />

have taught me things because<br />

I’m not qualified on <strong>the</strong> weapon.”<br />

In November 2004, <strong>the</strong><br />

Army G3 tapped Soldier Battle Lab to compare <strong>the</strong> DM rifle with existing<br />

army weapon systems. Test results have not yet been publicly released,<br />

but Liwanag feels certain that <strong>the</strong> DA G3 tests and this rotation to Iraq<br />

will validate <strong>the</strong> importance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> DM rifle.<br />

Charlton said <strong>the</strong> 3ID will collect feedback on rifle performance<br />

during <strong>the</strong>ir deployment to Iraq and provide that information back to <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> School and USAMU. “We believe strongly in <strong>the</strong> squaddesignated<br />

rifle concept,” Charlton said, “and are sure that this rifle and<br />

<strong>the</strong> training our soldiers received will be a tremendous combat multiplier<br />

for <strong>the</strong> 3ID and <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army.”<br />

Because <strong>the</strong> USAMU is not formally in <strong>the</strong> research and development<br />

cycle, soldiers <strong>of</strong>ten learn <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> group’s capabilities through seeing <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

weapons used in competition. Liwanag encourages units to send <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

soldiers to <strong>the</strong> Army championships for exposure to <strong>the</strong> improved<br />

equipment. When a commander determines that <strong>the</strong> USAMU’s improved<br />

weapon fills a shortfall, <strong>the</strong> unit may submit a proposal, called an<br />

operational (or a war fighting) needs statement, through <strong>the</strong> Army G3.<br />

The Division Master Gunner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 82nd Airborne attended a DM<br />

Instructor Course and asked if <strong>the</strong> rebuilt capability applied to<br />

competition guns could be retr<strong>of</strong>itted onto <strong>the</strong>ir carbines. Would it work<br />

on <strong>the</strong> shorter version necessary for jumping? The new gun designed for<br />

<strong>the</strong> Airborne unit has almost <strong>the</strong> same capability as <strong>the</strong> longer rifle, but is<br />

two inches shorter.<br />

One would expect <strong>the</strong> capabilities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> USAMU to be in great<br />

demand. Liwanag said <strong>the</strong> unit does not get more requests than <strong>the</strong>y can<br />

handle, but <strong>the</strong>y do get more than <strong>the</strong>y can afford. “Unless it comes with<br />

resourcing or a check, I cannot fix <strong>the</strong> weapons for <strong>the</strong> entire force on my<br />

own budget,” he said. “It has to<br />

come from <strong>the</strong> Army, be approved<br />

by <strong>the</strong> Army, but I can make<br />

prototypes to show what is possible<br />

with <strong>of</strong>f-<strong>the</strong>-shelf technology.”<br />

SFC Kevin McMahon, machinist, uses a<br />

chamber reamer to cut a chamber in a barrel<br />

on a Southbend metal cutting la<strong>the</strong>. The<br />

machine has been used for tuning barrels<br />

since <strong>the</strong> turn <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 19th century.<br />

10<br />

SSG Shawn Waller, machinist, drills a<br />

gas port hole on an M16 barrel.<br />

The cost for <strong>the</strong> DM rifles for <strong>the</strong> 3ID with all <strong>the</strong> modifications and<br />

500 rounds <strong>of</strong> match-grade ammunition was $1,100 per rifle. The Army<br />

paid for all <strong>the</strong> modifications, and <strong>the</strong> USAMU completed all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m on<br />

budget a month early.<br />

Instruction<br />

USAMU conducts both <strong>the</strong> Close Quarters Combat Course and DM<br />

Course at Fort Benning. It also <strong>of</strong>fers blocks <strong>of</strong> instruction during Army<br />

championships. Courses teach a rifleman to shoot his M16 from seven to<br />

600 yards. Most soldiers are confident in short- to medium-range shots,<br />

but have never been trained or challenged to hit distant targets. In Iraq<br />

and Afghanistan <strong>the</strong>y are discovering <strong>the</strong>y can see a lot far<strong>the</strong>r than <strong>the</strong>y<br />

can shoot.<br />

Training also focuses on advanced tactics and techniques developed<br />

by <strong>the</strong> USAMU — fighting while mounted in a Humvee or truck, or<br />

engaging <strong>the</strong> enemy on foot while doing a cordon in search <strong>of</strong> buildings<br />

or homes. Instruction includes how to stay in <strong>the</strong> fight when a rifle or<br />

shotgun has a stoppage by transitioning to a pistol or to an AK-47 that a<br />

soldier might find on <strong>the</strong> battlefield. The unit owns both Russian AK-47s<br />

and Chinese AK-47s — procured from U.S. Customs at no cost to <strong>the</strong><br />

Army — for training purposes.<br />

At <strong>the</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> a week’s absence from <strong>the</strong>ir units, soldiers will return as<br />

trained trainers who will improve <strong>the</strong> level <strong>of</strong> marksmanship in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

units. Because <strong>the</strong> USAMU has ammunition allocated for competition and<br />

training, in most courses, soldiers will shoot many more rounds than <strong>the</strong>y<br />

would at <strong>the</strong>ir home units or in a training platform.<br />

USAMU also sends Mobile Training Teams (MTT) out to deployed<br />

units. A five-soldier team went to Baghdad to give Close Combat Training<br />

to <strong>the</strong> 1st Armored Division. They were in six separate forward camps for<br />

three days each, teaching soldiers accuracy skills that will allow <strong>the</strong>m to<br />

survive <strong>the</strong> first 30 seconds <strong>of</strong> a gunfight.<br />

The main function <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> MTTs, as well as <strong>the</strong> courses taught at <strong>the</strong><br />

unit’s home, is not initial training. The unit trains NCOs who will return<br />

to <strong>the</strong>ir own units to train two or three generations <strong>of</strong> soldiers. MTTs<br />

have been in Korea, <strong>the</strong> Sergeants Major Academy, Fort Leonard Wood<br />

and Fort Bragg in recent months. Last year USAMU trained cadets,<br />

students in ROTC and JROTC programs, and combat and line units from<br />

Fort Benning, Iraq, Fort Lewis, Fort Bliss, Fort Riley, Fort Jackson and<br />

Fort Campbell. USAMU would like to send more MTTs to <strong>the</strong> soldiers<br />

forward in Iraq and Afghanistan for sustainment training to keep <strong>the</strong>m on<br />

<strong>the</strong> edge, but teams go where <strong>the</strong>y are requested.<br />

To receive MTTs, a unit must send a request through <strong>the</strong>ir G3 ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />

to TRADOC or to <strong>the</strong> USAMU. TRADOC <strong>the</strong>n prioritizes where <strong>the</strong>se<br />

teams will go. Scheduling also depends on <strong>the</strong> operations tempo at <strong>the</strong><br />

home unit, whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> unit is in a shooting season or teaching Close<br />

Combat or DM courses.<br />

“Lots <strong>of</strong> units out <strong>the</strong>re don’t know <strong>the</strong> marksmanship unit exists at<br />

all, or what services we can <strong>of</strong>fer <strong>the</strong>m,” Liwanag says. “There are ways <strong>of</strong>


Instructors from <strong>the</strong> USAMU conducted <strong>the</strong> first squad-designated marksman course for<br />

31 Soldiers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 3rd <strong>Infantry</strong> Division and 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Benning 4-8<br />

Oct. 2004.<br />

requesting support directly through <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> School, but remember<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> School is in <strong>the</strong> business <strong>of</strong> providing qualified soldiers. We<br />

provide advanced training above <strong>the</strong> entry level.”<br />

Unit Composition<br />

Of <strong>the</strong> 122 people currently a part <strong>of</strong> USAMU, 70 are shooters. The rest<br />

are support personnel including groundskeepers, target repairmen,<br />

ammunition handlers, gunsmiths and machinists.<br />

Recruitment for <strong>the</strong> unit occurs in two ways. Inside <strong>the</strong> force, when<br />

someone with shooting potential comes to <strong>the</strong> unit’s attention at<br />

championship matches, he or she may be invited back to <strong>the</strong> team for a<br />

two to three month trial period. The shooter will <strong>the</strong>n accompany <strong>the</strong><br />

team to inter-service or national championships. After three months <strong>of</strong><br />

practice and national-level competition, if <strong>the</strong> shooter shows <strong>the</strong> potential<br />

to improve or to medal, he or she will receive an invitation through <strong>the</strong><br />

Department <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Army to PCS into <strong>the</strong> unit and represent <strong>the</strong> Army.<br />

Potential shooters from outside <strong>the</strong> force <strong>of</strong>ten are spotted at<br />

international matches. College students who are high-level competitors<br />

may be invited to join through <strong>the</strong> Army Unit <strong>of</strong> Choice program. They<br />

are given 12 to 24 months to prove <strong>the</strong>ir potential as a soldier and as a<br />

champion. A good example is SPC Hattie Johnson who joined <strong>the</strong> unit at<br />

18 and in four years, during her first enlistment, went to <strong>the</strong> Olympics<br />

representing <strong>the</strong> United States.<br />

Gunsmiths are recruited much like shooters from inside <strong>the</strong> force or<br />

from colleges and gunsmithing schools. After joining <strong>the</strong> unit, <strong>the</strong>y<br />

receive advanced gunsmith training at <strong>the</strong> USAMU.<br />

Once in <strong>the</strong> unit, soldiers have <strong>the</strong> potential to stay indefinitely, as<br />

long as <strong>the</strong>y show potential to win or are consistent performers and<br />

champions. Shooters are evaluated every year, usually in October, to see<br />

whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y will be retained or sent back to <strong>the</strong> force in <strong>the</strong>ir MOS. In<br />

<strong>the</strong> last year, <strong>the</strong> unit returned soldiers to be recruiters, drill sergeants,<br />

and back to <strong>the</strong> line in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their experience in USAMU<br />

provides invaluable service to <strong>the</strong>ir new units.<br />

A Record Worthy <strong>of</strong> Notice<br />

On 19 July 2002, SSG Christopher S. Hatcher won <strong>the</strong> Inter-Service<br />

1,000-yard Service Rifle Competition in Quantico, Va., with a score <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>From</strong> Casing to Clip<br />

continued from page 9<br />

Finally each bullet is checked to see that it falls within <strong>the</strong><br />

desired seat length before it is set on <strong>the</strong> case. The total tolerance<br />

for seat length is approximately four thousandths <strong>of</strong> an inch —<br />

about <strong>the</strong> thickness <strong>of</strong> a piece <strong>of</strong> paper.<br />

Machinists in <strong>the</strong> loading shop are experimenting with a new<br />

machine, something like an MRI. It spins <strong>the</strong> bullet, revealing any<br />

imperfections inside. Testing will follow to see if <strong>the</strong>re is a<br />

measurable difference between bullets with few imperfections and<br />

those with a higher level. Because this is a time-consuming<br />

operation, <strong>the</strong> unit will have to determine whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> effect on<br />

<strong>the</strong> bullet’s accuracy is worth <strong>the</strong> time it takes to sort <strong>the</strong>m.<br />

When <strong>the</strong> ammunition is ready, rifles are brought to <strong>the</strong> test<br />

range for a 10-shot group at 300 meters to test <strong>the</strong> accuracy <strong>of</strong><br />

each barrel. Weapons passing <strong>the</strong> accuracy standards may <strong>the</strong>n<br />

become test rifles for new lots <strong>of</strong> ammunition. Once <strong>the</strong><br />

ammunition is tested to determine good loads, newly built rifles<br />

are <strong>the</strong>n tested with that load.<br />

Ammunition is kept lot specific. Each case is loaded with one<br />

lot <strong>of</strong> bullets, one lot <strong>of</strong> brass and one lot <strong>of</strong> powder. That way<br />

nothing changes and no new variables are introduced into <strong>the</strong> lot.<br />

When a soldier squeezes <strong>the</strong> trigger, he knows that <strong>the</strong> ammunition<br />

has been matched to give <strong>the</strong> best performance out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> gun.<br />

Lessons learned in building competition ammunition are<br />

applied to building more accurate ammunition for <strong>the</strong> regular<br />

army. USAMU designed a piece <strong>of</strong> competition ammunition for<br />

<strong>the</strong> U.S. Army Rifle Team. “The ammunition we had before was<br />

just not performing,” said LTC David Liwanag, “so we hand<br />

loaded something better.” After 9/11, Special Forces requested that<br />

<strong>the</strong> load be standardized. It is now <strong>the</strong> standard special operations<br />

command load, as well as <strong>the</strong> load used for <strong>the</strong> new designated<br />

marksman rifles.<br />

200 – 7X. Firing an M16 at a target at a<br />

distance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> length <strong>of</strong> 10 football fields,<br />

using only iron sights, Hatcher shot 20<br />

out <strong>of</strong> 20 hits inside <strong>the</strong> 10 ring — about<br />

<strong>the</strong> size a dart board. Seven <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 20<br />

shots hit inside <strong>the</strong> bull’s-eye — about <strong>the</strong><br />

size <strong>of</strong> a Frisbee.<br />

“If we can give an average rifleman a<br />

rifle/ammunition combination and <strong>the</strong><br />

training to shoot with this kind <strong>of</strong> accuracy,<br />

it gives tremendous flexibility to support<br />

and overwatch <strong>the</strong> guys that go fur<strong>the</strong>r and<br />

fur<strong>the</strong>r out,” Liwanag says. “That’s <strong>the</strong> kind<br />

<strong>of</strong> accuracy and confidence we want our<br />

guys to know.” And what better way to<br />

learn <strong>the</strong> skills than by having a coach who<br />

may have won an Olympic medal?<br />

www.infantryassn.com 11


14<br />

<strong>From</strong> PEO Soldier<br />

Integrated Sights—A Leap Ahead<br />

By Project Manager Soldier Equipment<br />

Two sights have been tested as part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> OICW Increment I, formerly<br />

known as <strong>the</strong> XM8 Family <strong>of</strong> Weapons: <strong>the</strong> Integrated Sighting Module<br />

(ISM) and <strong>the</strong> Advanced Magnified Optic (AMO).<br />

The ISM is a unity magnified reflex optic with red dot aim point for<br />

target engagement during <strong>the</strong> day, and infrared (IR) aiming laser/pointer<br />

and illuminator for target engagement at night. In o<strong>the</strong>r words, <strong>the</strong> ISM<br />

integrates <strong>the</strong> capabilities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> M68 Close Combat Optic and <strong>the</strong><br />

AN/PEQ-2A into a single device.<br />

The red dot and IR lasers are co-aligned. This means <strong>the</strong> soldier can<br />

zero his weapon once during daytime and it will be accurate in<br />

engaging targets day or night.<br />

The ISM is intended for use on <strong>the</strong> Special Compact and Baseline<br />

Carbine variants, and provides <strong>the</strong> soldier with both passive and active<br />

target acquisition capability out to 300 meters.<br />

Selector<br />

Switch<br />

Knob<br />

Rear Shroud<br />

Rear Locking<br />

PCAP Foot<br />

Adjustment Direction<br />

Indicator<br />

Integrated Sighting Module (ISM)<br />

Elevation Adjuster<br />

Front PCAP Foot<br />

Front Shroud<br />

Azimuth<br />

Adjuster<br />

Throw<br />

Lever<br />

Lever Lock<br />

IR Illuminator<br />

IR Pointer<br />

Front Shroud<br />

Red Dot Intensity<br />

Adjustment<br />

Remote<br />

Switch Jack<br />

Adjustment Direction<br />

Indicator<br />

Safety Screw<br />

Storage<br />

Activation<br />

Switch<br />

Battery<br />

Direction<br />

Indicator<br />

Battery Cap<br />

Battery Cap<br />

Lanyard<br />

The XM8 weapon system not only includes <strong>the</strong> weapon it also includes an integrated<br />

close combat optic and lasers. PM Soldier Equipment has integrated into one package<br />

our current M68 Close Combat Optic and <strong>the</strong> PEQ-2A (IR pointer and IR illuminator).<br />

Red Dot & Reticle<br />

Elevation Adjuster<br />

Advanced Magnified Optic (AMO)<br />

IR Aim Elevation<br />

Adjuster<br />

IR Aim Windage<br />

Adjuster<br />

Front Mounting Pin<br />

Red Dot & Reticle<br />

Windage Adjuster<br />

Activation Button<br />

IR Illuminator<br />

Lever Lock<br />

Throw Lever<br />

Remote Jack<br />

Battery<br />

Compartment<br />

IR Pointer<br />

IR Illuminator<br />

Red Dot Intensity<br />

Control Buttons<br />

Mode Select<br />

Switch<br />

Status Indicator<br />

LED<br />

Rear Mounting Pin<br />

The XM8 weapon system also includes a powered optic with integrated lasers. We<br />

integrated into one package our current ACOG and <strong>the</strong> PEQ-2A (IR pointer and IR<br />

illuminator) for <strong>the</strong> XM8 Sharpshooter and Auto-Rifle variants.<br />

The AMO is a 4X magnified optic with <strong>the</strong> same IR aiming laser and<br />

IR illuminator as <strong>the</strong> ISM. It also includes a backup reticle with aim<br />

points at 400, 500 and 600 meters, and a variable focus capability on <strong>the</strong><br />

IR illuminator. The AMO integrates <strong>the</strong> capability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ACOG and <strong>the</strong><br />

AN/PEQ-2A into a single device.<br />

The red dot and aim lasers are not co-aligned on <strong>the</strong> AMO. It is<br />

intended for use on <strong>the</strong> Designated Marksman or Automatic Rifle variant,<br />

and provides <strong>the</strong> soldier with both passive and active target acquisition<br />

capability out to 600 meters.<br />

During FY04, <strong>the</strong> ISM and AMO underwent developmental testing at<br />

Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), Md., and White Sands Missile Range<br />

(WSMR), N.M.; user evaluation at Fort Benning, Ga.; arctic testing at<br />

Cold Regions Test Center (CRTC) in Alaska; desert testing at Yuma<br />

Proving Ground, Ariz.; and tropic testing at <strong>the</strong> Tropic Regions Test<br />

Center in <strong>the</strong> Republic <strong>of</strong> Panama. Additional testing is planned for FY05<br />

at CRTC, APG and WSMR.


This rendering, by artists at Christopher Chadbourne and Associates, depicts “The<br />

Last 100 Yards,” which will begin <strong>the</strong> visitor's experience at <strong>the</strong> new <strong>National</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Museum.<br />

The Last 100 Yards<br />

By Cyndy Cerbin<br />

No matter how many bombs are dropped, no matter how much<br />

ordnance is fired, it will always be <strong>the</strong> grunt on <strong>the</strong> ground that takes<br />

<strong>the</strong> last 100 yards. <strong>Infantry</strong>men already know this. The new <strong>National</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Museum wants everyone to know it.<br />

The “Last 100 Yards” is <strong>the</strong> driving <strong>the</strong>me behind exhibit designer<br />

Christopher Chadbourne and Associates’ plans for <strong>the</strong> new museum,<br />

which is being built on a 200-acre site that connects Fort Benning and<br />

Columbus, Ga. The Boston-based firm recently unveiled its master<br />

plan to <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Foundation <strong>of</strong>ficials. It includes an opening<br />

experience that will lead <strong>the</strong> museum visitor along a 100-yard path<br />

tracing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>’s major battles from <strong>the</strong> past 229 years <strong>of</strong><br />

American history.<br />

Through multi-dimensional environments, huge scale projections,<br />

immersive sound, <strong>the</strong>atrical lighting and a stirring musical score,<br />

visitors will be transported to <strong>the</strong> front lines. They will experience war<br />

as <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> does, face-to-face with <strong>the</strong> enemy.<br />

The “Last 100 Yards” is 30 feet wide and gradually ascends through<br />

<strong>the</strong> middle <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> museum’s spacious central gallery. At its end, visitors<br />

are positioned to begin <strong>the</strong>ir interactive journey through <strong>the</strong> six era<br />

galleries and three <strong>the</strong>matic galleries that will line <strong>the</strong> central gallery.<br />

The era galleries depict defined periods <strong>of</strong> U.S. History, beginning with<br />

events leading up to <strong>the</strong> Revolutionary War until now, <strong>the</strong> United States<br />

being <strong>the</strong> sole super-power.<br />

The Fort Benning gallery, which is first, will explore <strong>the</strong><br />

transformational experience <strong>of</strong> basic training. Visitors, accompanied by<br />

<strong>the</strong> commanding voice <strong>of</strong> a drill sergeant, will learn what it takes to<br />

turn an unskilled, undisciplined teenager into a brave and dedicated<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> soldier.<br />

As guests conclude <strong>the</strong>ir visit, <strong>the</strong>y will enter <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Theater,<br />

where a specially produced film will tie toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>mes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

museum and leave visitors with both a new understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

MUSEUM UPDATE<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> and pride in <strong>the</strong> soldiers who protect<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir freedoms.<br />

The museum also will include unique, state<strong>of</strong>-<strong>the</strong>-art<br />

simulator experiences, a large screen<br />

digital <strong>the</strong>ater, a <strong>the</strong>med café and a gift shop<br />

<strong>of</strong>fering top quality items <strong>of</strong> particular interest to<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>men, <strong>the</strong>ir families and history buffs.<br />

“I’m amazed at how this exhibit plan mirrors<br />

just what we asked for, how <strong>the</strong> designers were<br />

able to take our abstract messages and make<br />

<strong>the</strong>m come alive,” commented <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

Foundation Director Ben Williams. “I’m<br />

absolutely convinced we selected <strong>the</strong> right team<br />

for <strong>the</strong> job.”<br />

Site Work Update<br />

As <strong>the</strong> exhibit designers continue to refine <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

master plan, work is progressing on <strong>the</strong> site <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> new museum.<br />

The first action, now underway, is <strong>the</strong> relocation <strong>of</strong> seven World<br />

War II-era buildings to a clearing in <strong>the</strong> woods. The buildings include<br />

two barracks, a day room, supply room, chapel, and <strong>the</strong> headquarters<br />

and sleeping quarters once used by GEN George Patton before his<br />

deployment to South Africa. The buildings were saved by <strong>the</strong>n Fort<br />

Benning Commander MG Jerry White when <strong>the</strong> Army tore down all <strong>the</strong><br />

World War II wood in <strong>the</strong> mid-’90s. They will be restored to recreate a<br />

company street typical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> years when some 16 million Americans<br />

signed up to join <strong>the</strong> war effort.<br />

Next on <strong>the</strong> construction checklist will be <strong>the</strong> seven-acre parade<br />

field and <strong>the</strong> Memorial Walk <strong>of</strong> Honor. Construction on <strong>the</strong> museum<br />

building will begin as additional funds become available.<br />

Please visit www.nationalinfantryfoundation.com to learn more about <strong>the</strong><br />

museum project. Donations may be securely made online, or you may write<br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Foundation at P.O. Box 2823, Columbus, GA 31901 or<br />

call (706) 653-9234.<br />

Crews prepare <strong>the</strong> site for <strong>the</strong> relocation<br />

<strong>of</strong> seven historic buildings, which will<br />

recreate a typical company street during<br />

World War II.<br />

www.infantryassn.com 15


16<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Hero:<br />

CPL Aaron<br />

“Harry” Yamin<br />

Compiled by Doraine Bennett from personal letters and documents<br />

archived at <strong>the</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Museum<br />

CPL Aaron “Harry” Yamin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1st<br />

Battalion, 306th Regiment, 77th<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Division.<br />

May 12, 1918<br />

Dear Everybody,<br />

I’m writing this letter<br />

from <strong>the</strong> guardhouse. Don’t<br />

get scared. As one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

guards. Not a prisoner. I did not<br />

have my shoes polished right<br />

so I was put on guard as<br />

punishment. So you see <strong>the</strong>y<br />

are trying to make a man out<br />

<strong>of</strong> me in this army. I don’t know<br />

whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y will ever<br />

succeed….<br />

CPL Aaron “Harry” Yamin may have<br />

been concerned about his abilities,<br />

but when put to <strong>the</strong> test, he proved<br />

himself worthy <strong>of</strong> being called one <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>’s finest. He was awarded<br />

<strong>the</strong> U.S. Army Distinguished Service<br />

Cross for his action on 27 September<br />

1918, in <strong>the</strong> Forest <strong>of</strong> Argonne.<br />

Yamin was born to Jewish<br />

parents in Russia in 1896. His family<br />

immigrated to <strong>the</strong> United States in<br />

January 1905, settling in New York City. Yamin was drafted in<br />

September 1917 and assigned to <strong>the</strong> Army’s 77th Division at Camp<br />

Upton, Long Island, N.Y. He was promoted to <strong>the</strong> rank <strong>of</strong> Corporal on<br />

4 April 1918. Later in <strong>the</strong> month, Company B, 306th <strong>Infantry</strong> Regiment<br />

embarked from New York headed for France.<br />

After initial training with <strong>the</strong> British Army’s 39th Division at<br />

Bonnigues, France, <strong>the</strong> 1st Battalion, 306th Regiment, 77th <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

Division was ordered to Rambervilliers in <strong>the</strong> area <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> French VI<br />

Army Corps. In June, <strong>the</strong> 77th Division was attached to <strong>the</strong> French 61st<br />

Division d’Infanterie (D.I.). When <strong>the</strong> French unit was withdrawn from<br />

<strong>the</strong> sector in mid July, <strong>the</strong> 77th Division took command, remaining in<br />

action in <strong>the</strong> front lines until 4 August 1918.<br />

June 25, 1918<br />

Dear Ben and Everybody,<br />

I have decided to write this letter to you. I have not<br />

received any letters from you for a long time. In fact I have<br />

not received any mail from home in over two weeks. I’d<br />

ra<strong>the</strong>r have one letter from home now than a steak. That’s<br />

going some. Seriously, I am anxious.<br />

Our outfit is now situated in a large deserted village.<br />

When I say deserted, I mean deserted. Not a civilian in sight.<br />

You ought to see <strong>the</strong> houses. They look like Seventh Avenue,<br />

after a subway cave in. Only a hundred percent worse. The<br />

buildings banged to pieces, wall and stairways crumbled. You<br />

ought to see <strong>the</strong> church. Every French village has to have a<br />

church. This one used to be a church. When Fritz got through<br />

playing with it, it ceased to be one.<br />

My squad is billeted in an old busted up shack that’s<br />

fallen to pieces. There is a squad on <strong>the</strong> floor above us. We<br />

are pretty comfortable, except when <strong>the</strong> boys upstairs forget<br />

<strong>the</strong>mselves, and tread a little too hard on <strong>the</strong> floor, that<br />

brings <strong>the</strong> ceiling down on our heads. O<strong>the</strong>rwise we are quite<br />

comfortable.<br />

You know we are supposed to be in <strong>the</strong> front lines. Two<br />

<strong>of</strong> our platoons are actually in <strong>the</strong> trenches. Our platoon is<br />

right back <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> line … It’s a very quiet sector … The only<br />

way we know we are at war here is when <strong>the</strong> big guns keep<br />

banging away once in a while. At present <strong>the</strong>y are very quiet.<br />

Also we have to wear our gas masks at all times. Several<br />

nights ago <strong>the</strong> big guns were banging away all night. We<br />

were up for an hour listening to <strong>the</strong> bang and whine and <strong>the</strong>n<br />

we went to sleep again.<br />

In August, <strong>the</strong> 306th <strong>Infantry</strong> Regiment with <strong>the</strong> 77th Division was<br />

ordered to <strong>the</strong> U.S. 1st Army Corps area where it relieved elements <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

U.S. 4th Division and <strong>the</strong> French 62nd Division in <strong>the</strong> Vesle Sector. On<br />

August 17, <strong>the</strong> sector merged into <strong>the</strong> Oise-Aisne operation where <strong>the</strong><br />

regiment remained until 15-16 September.<br />

September 15, 1918<br />

Dear Sis,<br />

The days come and <strong>the</strong>y go and I don’t know which is<br />

which. I just found out <strong>the</strong> day and date. I also think today is<br />

Yom Kippur. I’m not doing much fasting. Nor feasting ei<strong>the</strong>r.<br />

Rosh Hashanah has gone by. General Pershing’s order<br />

was all men were allowed a pass to town, if it does not<br />

interfere with your<br />

military duties. As it<br />

happens, we were in<br />

<strong>the</strong> front line. There<br />

was a town nearby,<br />

but <strong>the</strong>re was not a<br />

whole building left in<br />

<strong>the</strong> place. So what’s<br />

<strong>the</strong> use….<br />

Guess after I<br />

finish this letter I’ll go<br />

down and see if I can<br />

CPL Yamin poses with his mo<strong>the</strong>r<br />

before leaving for France.


find a spring and take a bath. Three <strong>of</strong> us slept in <strong>the</strong> same<br />

tent last night. A tent made for two … all night we argued<br />

about <strong>the</strong> covers. The blankets were made for two, and<br />

three under <strong>the</strong>m, we had a perfectly good time ….<br />

As for <strong>the</strong> rest, we are going somewhere. Don’t<br />

know where but we know it’s for a long rest. It is good<br />

to be out <strong>of</strong> range <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> old whiz bangs.<br />

On 19-20 September, <strong>the</strong> 77th Division was ordered to <strong>the</strong> area <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> U.S. I Corps to relieve <strong>the</strong> French 120th D.I. in <strong>the</strong> Foret-d’Argonne<br />

Sector, preparatory to entering <strong>the</strong> Meuse-Argonne operation. The<br />

306th <strong>Infantry</strong> entered <strong>the</strong> front line area on 19 September. The<br />

regiment was in line when <strong>the</strong> Meuse Argonne operation began on 26<br />

September 1918.<br />

On 26 September, <strong>the</strong> command post <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1st Battalion was<br />

located at Le Claon, France. The battalion was moved forward in front<br />

<strong>of</strong> Route Marchand on <strong>the</strong> late evening <strong>of</strong> 25 September. H Hour was<br />

fixed for 5:30 a.m. on 26 September. Artillery preparation lasted for<br />

three hours. At 5:30 a.m., <strong>the</strong> 1st Battalion attacked with <strong>the</strong> 3rd<br />

Battalion in close support, following a rolling barrage at <strong>the</strong> rate <strong>of</strong> 100<br />

yards in five minutes. During that day an advance <strong>of</strong> two kilometers<br />

was made through <strong>the</strong> vast trench complex. The line for <strong>the</strong> night was<br />

established just north <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Four de Paris-Barricade Pavilion Road.<br />

At 3:00 a.m. COL George Vidmer and his staff moved forward to<br />

<strong>the</strong> front line. Two companies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1st Battalion had become separated<br />

in <strong>the</strong> dense network <strong>of</strong> trenches and could not be found. Officers and<br />

orderlies rushed about reestablishing <strong>the</strong> front line and trying to find<br />

<strong>the</strong> lost companies. As daylight appeared, soldiers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> German 2nd<br />

Landwehr Division could be seen across <strong>the</strong> little valley immediately to<br />

<strong>the</strong> front in <strong>the</strong> vicinity <strong>of</strong> Abri de St. Louis and St. Hubert’s Pavillion.<br />

A German red rocket shot up into <strong>the</strong> sky and a bugle call signaled<br />

<strong>the</strong> Germans to fire trench mortar shells, machine guns and grenades.<br />

The intense fire caused <strong>the</strong> men <strong>of</strong> Company B to hug <strong>the</strong> ground for<br />

15 minutes. When <strong>the</strong> fire ceased, a sergeant and six men found a gap<br />

in <strong>the</strong> German barbed wire, crawled through, and capturing two enemy<br />

machine guns and two prisoners. One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> prisoners reported that a<br />

large force <strong>of</strong> German infantry held <strong>the</strong> position. The doughboys called<br />

back to <strong>the</strong> main body to cut <strong>the</strong> wire and come through.<br />

Yamin and PFC Carl I. Johanson volunteered to cut a strip <strong>of</strong><br />

enemy barbed wire to make an opening for <strong>the</strong>ir company, which was<br />

at that time under renewed heavy fire from artillery and machine guns.<br />

The two soldiers went into action and, inside <strong>of</strong> three minutes, cut a<br />

wide path through <strong>the</strong> wire enabling Companies B and K to file through<br />

and occupy <strong>the</strong> vacated trenches.<br />

Just as his task was completed and he had given <strong>the</strong> signal for his<br />

platoon to advance, Yamin fell with six wounds. He died two days later<br />

and was buried in <strong>the</strong> cemetery at Commune <strong>of</strong> La Chalade, Meuse,<br />

France. His remains were later moved to <strong>the</strong> U.S. cemetery at<br />

Romagne, France.<br />

Yamin was awarded <strong>the</strong> Distinguished Service Cross in 1919. His<br />

mo<strong>the</strong>r accepted <strong>the</strong> award. His heroism and devotion to duty were in<br />

keeping with <strong>the</strong> highest traditions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> military service and reflect<br />

great credit upon himself, his unit and <strong>the</strong> U.S. Army.<br />

Why Belong to <strong>the</strong> NIA?<br />

• To support <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ONLY organization representing <strong>the</strong> entire<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>. The combined strength <strong>of</strong> our<br />

membership ensures that <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> voice is heard by decision makers.<br />

• To share <strong>the</strong> camaraderie <strong>of</strong> like minded soldiers and citizens who believe<br />

in maintaining <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> spirit, and to help recognize outstanding<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>men.<br />

• To grow pr<strong>of</strong>essionally through participation in <strong>Association</strong> activities,<br />

programs and publications.<br />

• To support a new, expanded <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Museum and <strong>the</strong> educational<br />

values associated with its contents.<br />

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION<br />

Please Check One: [ ] Change <strong>of</strong> Address [ ] New Membership<br />

[ ] Membership Renewal Chapter Affiliation ______________<br />

Rank/Grade First Name MI Last Name Sex<br />

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Office Phone Home Phone Email<br />

Annual Dues: All applicants o<strong>the</strong>r than those listed below:<br />

[ ] 1 yr. - $20 [ ] 2 yrs. - $38 [ ] 3 yrs. - $55<br />

Trainees, Enlisted E-2/E-6; Officer Candidates; 2LT in IOBC, GS-8, DACS and<br />

below, Wage Board 12 DAC and below:<br />

[ ] OSUT 1yr. - $10 [ ] 1 yr. - $14 [ ] 2 yrs. - $25 [ ] 3 yrs. $36<br />

Corporate Membership – Annual Dues:<br />

[ ] Corporation - $300 [ ] Small Business - $100<br />

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[ ] Check here to pay in $25 monthly installments by credit card<br />

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Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Qualifications:<br />

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Tel. (706) 323-2560; Fax (706) 323-0967<br />

members@infantryassn.com<br />

www.infantryassn.com<br />

www.infantryassn.com 17


18<br />

History <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> Branch Insignia<br />

Two gold color crossed muskets, vintage<br />

1795 Springfield musket, 3/4 inch in height.<br />

Crossed muskets were first introduced<br />

into <strong>the</strong> Army as <strong>the</strong> insignia <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficers<br />

and enlisted men <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> on 19<br />

November 1875 (War Department<br />

General Order No. 96 dated 19 Nov<br />

Branch Plaque<br />

1875) to take effect on or before 1 June<br />

1876. Numerous attempts in <strong>the</strong> earlier<br />

years were made to keep <strong>the</strong> insignia<br />

current with <strong>the</strong> ever-changing styles <strong>of</strong><br />

rifles being introduced into <strong>the</strong> Army.<br />

However, in 1924 <strong>the</strong> branch insignia was<br />

Branch Insignia<br />

standardized by <strong>the</strong> adoption <strong>of</strong> crossed<br />

muskets, and <strong>the</strong> 1795 model Springfield Arsenal musket was adopted<br />

as <strong>the</strong> standard musket to be used.<br />

This was <strong>the</strong> first <strong>of</strong>ficial U. S. shoulder arm with interchangeable<br />

parts made in a government arsenal. MG Charles S. Farnsworth first<br />

suggested <strong>the</strong> image <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> standardized musket, now in use, while he<br />

was <strong>the</strong> first <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> in July 1921.<br />

One day in <strong>the</strong> early spring <strong>of</strong> 1922, in <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>, Farnsworth made a remark in substance as follows:<br />

“In 1887,when after graduation leave I joined my regiment on<br />

<strong>the</strong> frontier, <strong>the</strong> crossed muskets which were embroidered on <strong>the</strong><br />

collar <strong>of</strong> my blue blouse had hammers which were distinctly shown.<br />

The musket was <strong>the</strong> old Springfield model 1876, .45 caliber, singleshot<br />

rifle. In 1892, following <strong>the</strong> rearmament <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> with <strong>the</strong><br />

Krag-Jorgensen, .30 caliber, magazine, bolt-action rifle, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

collar mark was changed to show <strong>the</strong> bolt action. In 1903, <strong>the</strong> ‘new’<br />

.30 caliber Springfield taking five cartridges in a clip replaced <strong>the</strong><br />

Krag. You see when <strong>the</strong> Ordnance changed <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> weapon, <strong>the</strong><br />

Quartermaster changed <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> collar mark. The Ordnance is<br />

now working on a shoulder automatic for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>. Do you think<br />

<strong>the</strong> crossed muskets, which our grandsons will wear on <strong>the</strong>ir collars,<br />

will show some sort <strong>of</strong> a rapid-fire pinwheel breech action? Will it be<br />

possible for you to make a study to determine just what <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

collar mark should be? And incidentally <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> collar mark is<br />

crossed muskets, not crossed rifles, for any gun with a twisted bore is<br />

a rifle.”<br />

At <strong>the</strong> time, MAJ Jerome Clark <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Finance Department<br />

generally was known to have <strong>the</strong> best private collection <strong>of</strong> small arms<br />

in <strong>the</strong> Army. When <strong>the</strong> case was made known to Clark, without a<br />

moment’s hesitation he reached into <strong>the</strong> corner behind his desk and<br />

produced one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> prize pieces <strong>of</strong> his collection, with a remark to<br />

<strong>the</strong> effect that, “This is <strong>the</strong> 1795 model Springfield Arsenal musket,<br />

<strong>the</strong> first <strong>of</strong>ficial U.S. shoulder production, caliber .69, flintlock,<br />

smooth bore, muzzleloader, <strong>the</strong> first standardized, quantity<br />

production infantry weapon.”<br />

Clark’s 1795 Springfield musket was taken to <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

Quartermaster General; it was photographed from each side and<br />

drawings made. Farnsworth and <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

were pleased.<br />

The record drawing was made; GEN Pershing, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> Staff,<br />

signed <strong>the</strong> drawing and later approved <strong>the</strong> actual metal collar mark<br />

in <strong>the</strong> spring <strong>of</strong> 1922. There have been slight modifications in <strong>the</strong><br />

size <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> insignia over <strong>the</strong> years; however, <strong>the</strong> basic design has<br />

remained unchanged.<br />

Sources:<br />

“Crossed Musket – The Device <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong>.” The Institute <strong>of</strong> Heraldry.<br />

www.tioh.hqda.pentagon.mil/ROTCMiscNGB/Crossed%20Musket.htm.<br />

“<strong>Infantry</strong>.” The Institute <strong>of</strong> Heraldry.<br />

www.perscomonline.army.mil/tagd/tioh/Branches/<strong>Infantry</strong>.htm.<br />

The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong><br />

would like to give special thanks to:<br />

CORPORATE MEMBERS<br />

All American Recycling, Inc. ................................Columbus, GA<br />

AM General ........................................................South Bend, IN<br />

Archangel Defense Systems, Inc. ..........................Alexandria, VA<br />

Atmos Energy Corporation ..................................Columbus, GA<br />

BAE Systems ........................................................Columbus, GA<br />

Bell South Federal ....................................................Atlanta, GA<br />

Brashear LP............................................................Pittsburgh, PA<br />

CamelBak Products, Inc. ........................................Petaluma, CA<br />

CB&T ..................................................................Columbus, GA<br />

Columbus Convention and Visitor's Bureau ........Columbus, GA<br />

Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) ................Columbus, GA<br />

Deer Creek Awards ................................................Olympia, WA<br />

Defense Solutions, LLC......................................Washington, DC<br />

Fire Arms Training Systems, Inc. ............................Suwanee, GA<br />

First Command Financial Planning ......................Columbus, GA<br />

GEICO Direct ......................................................Columbus, GA<br />

General Dynamics Armament and<br />

Technical Products ................................................Arlington, VA<br />

General Dynamics C4 Systems ..............................Scottsdale, AZ<br />

General Dynamics Land Systems ..............................Cataula, GA<br />

General Dynamics Robotic Systems ..................Westminster, MD<br />

Greater Columbus Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce ..........Columbus, GA<br />

Heckler & Koch Defense, Inc. ..................................Sterling, VA<br />

Honeywell, Inc. ..............................................Albuquerque, NM<br />

L-3 Communications, BT Fuze Products ................Lancaster, PA<br />

Lockheed Martin ..................................................Columbus, GA<br />

Northrop Grumman Electro-Optical Systems ......Columbus, GA<br />

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Corp. ........Columbus, GA<br />

Omega Training Group, Inc. ................................Columbus, GA<br />

Phantom Products, Inc. ........................................Rockledge, FL<br />

Pioneer Services ..................................................Clarksville, TN<br />

Pioneer Services....................................................Columbus, GA<br />

Radiance Technologies, Inc.......................................Fortson, GA<br />

Ranger Joes ..........................................................Columbus, GA<br />

Ray<strong>the</strong>on ..............................................................Columbus, GA<br />

SAAB Training, LLC..................................................Orlando, FL<br />

Steven J. Greer Foundation ....................................Manassas, VA<br />

SYColeman Corp. ..................................................Arlington, VA<br />

TEC-Masters, Inc...................................................Huntsville, AL<br />

TIC Federal Credit Union ....................................Columbus, GA<br />

Titan Corporation ....................................................Opelika, AL<br />

United Defense, LP ..................................................Fortson, GA<br />

Warrior Solutions, Inc. ............................................Boulder, CO<br />

Worldwide Army Rangers, Inc. ............................Columbus, GA


★ News and Awards ★<br />

Reunions<br />

The Third <strong>Infantry</strong> Division Society, and attached units in war and in<br />

peacetime, will hold <strong>the</strong>ir 86th reunion on 15-18 Sept 2005 in San<br />

Diego, Calif. at <strong>the</strong> Red Lion Hanalei Hotel, 2270 Hotel Circle North, San<br />

Diego, CA 92108. (619) 297-1101 or (800) 882-0858. Room rates are<br />

$99 per night plus tax. Parking is free. Contact: Bruce Monkman at (818)<br />

343-3370, brucemonkman@earthlink.net. or Linda Irvine at (360) 663-<br />

2521, info@TheReunionBRAT.com. www.warfoto.com/3rdiv.htm.<br />

The 101st Airborne Division <strong>Association</strong> (Screaming Eagles) will hold its<br />

annual reunion from 10-14 August 2005, in Tampa, Fla., at <strong>the</strong> Double<br />

Tree Hotel. The Desert Storm Eagles will be honored during <strong>the</strong> event.<br />

Contact Jim Joiner at (813) 645-8777 or at mjoiner883@aol.com or<br />

junglejim327@juno.com.<br />

The Society <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> First <strong>Infantry</strong> Division (Big Red One) will hold its 87th<br />

Annual Reunion from 20-24 July 2005 at <strong>the</strong> Crystal Gateway Marriott in<br />

Arlington, Va. The group is composed <strong>of</strong> veterans who served in World<br />

War I, World War II, Vietnam, Desert Storm, <strong>the</strong> Balkans, Iraq<br />

(previously or currently), during <strong>the</strong> Cold War and peacetime. Contact:<br />

Society <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> First <strong>Infantry</strong> Division, 1933 Morris Rd., Blue Bell, PA<br />

19422. (888) 324-4733, (215) 661-1934 (fax), Soc1ID@aol.com<br />

NIA MEMBER BENEFITS<br />

GEICO OFFERS SAVINGS OPPORTUNITIES FOR<br />

MEMBERS OF NATIONAL INFANTRY ASSOCIATION<br />

GEICO Auto Insurance has been saving drivers money <strong>of</strong>f car<br />

insurance since 1936 through incentives such as multi-car, five-year<br />

good driver, 50 plus, anti-lock brakes and an anti-<strong>the</strong>ft device.<br />

GEICO now provides an additional discount for members <strong>of</strong> <strong>National</strong><br />

<strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> in 42 states plus <strong>the</strong> District <strong>of</strong> Columbia.<br />

In a recent survey, policyholders reported saving an average <strong>of</strong> 15<br />

percent when <strong>the</strong>y switched <strong>the</strong>ir car insurance to GEICO. GEICO<br />

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To find out how much you could save with GEICO, contact your<br />

local GEICO <strong>of</strong>fice, or call (800) 368-2734, and be sure to mention<br />

that you are a NIA member. If you already have a GEICO policy, call<br />

to discuss whe<strong>the</strong>r you qualify for <strong>the</strong> NIA member discount.<br />

WELLS FARGO CAPITAL FOR<br />

KNOWLEDGE PROGRAM<br />

The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> has teamed up with <strong>the</strong> Wells<br />

Fargo Capital for Knowledge program, making it easier than ever for<br />

you and your family members to receive education financing. You can<br />

borrow funds to cover all education-related expenses, including a<br />

current or previous year's tuition, room and board, books, fees and<br />

even a personal computer. An instant credit decision is available over<br />

<strong>the</strong> phone or online, and rates and terms are personalized to meet<br />

your specific credit pr<strong>of</strong>ile. Call (888) 651-5626 or visit<br />

www.capital4u.net to apply or for more information.<br />

Members <strong>of</strong> Lone Star Chapter <strong>of</strong> <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> <strong>Association</strong> and<br />

2-142 IN conducted an <strong>Infantry</strong> Punch Bowl Ceremony prior to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

deployment for Operation Iraqi Freedom III on 29 Dec 2004 at North<br />

Fort Hood, Texas. 2-142 IN is a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 56th BCT, 36th <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

Division, Texas Army <strong>National</strong> Guard. CSM John Morgan was <strong>the</strong> master<br />

<strong>of</strong> ceremonies and 1SG Hubert Smith, 1SG Russell Lee, 1SG Scott<br />

Bushnell, 1SG Jeffery Thon, 1SG Dan Reid and MSG Jeffrey Muckleroy<br />

charged <strong>the</strong> punch bowl. A second ceremony is planned when <strong>the</strong> 2-142<br />

IN de-mobilizes at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir OIF III mission.<br />

NIA Merchandise<br />

Please visit our website at:<br />

www.infantryassn.com<br />

and click on “NIA Merchandise”<br />

The <strong>National</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

<strong>Association</strong> has a new<br />

product line and <strong>the</strong><br />

proceeds go directly<br />

to <strong>the</strong> support <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

NIA mission.<br />

www.infantryassn.com 19


20<br />

★ News and Awards ★<br />

Pelham American Legion Post 50 Initiates<br />

Commemoration <strong>of</strong> World War II 60th<br />

Anniversary Ceremonies in Italy<br />

Former Sen. McGovern, Ambassador Boggs Plan to Participate<br />

The Battle for Italy is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most important, yet <strong>of</strong>ten overlooked,<br />

campaigns in World War II. Post 50 Pelham, N.Y., toge<strong>the</strong>r with fellow<br />

organizations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> American Legion, will recognize <strong>the</strong> sacrifices made<br />

by countless soldiers by conducting memorial ceremonies on <strong>the</strong> 60th<br />

anniversary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> surrender <strong>of</strong> German forces to <strong>the</strong> Allies on Mon.,<br />

May 2. The event will be held at <strong>the</strong> Sicily-Rome American Cemetery<br />

and Memorial located in Nettuno, a short drive south <strong>of</strong> Rome. On<br />

Thurs., May 5, a wreath laying ceremony will be held at <strong>the</strong> Florence<br />

American Cemetery.<br />

Members <strong>of</strong> Post 50 were moved by <strong>the</strong> ceremonies honoring <strong>the</strong><br />

60th Anniversary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> D-Day invasion last June. When <strong>the</strong>y realized<br />

that nothing was planned to commemorate <strong>the</strong> Italian fight due to<br />

resource limitations, <strong>the</strong>y took <strong>the</strong> initiative to draft a resolution<br />

requesting approval to organize an anniversary ceremony in Italy, and<br />

presented this to American Legion leadership on <strong>the</strong> county, state and<br />

national level. To date approval has been received from <strong>the</strong> county and<br />

state level, and a “favorable” response was received from <strong>the</strong> <strong>National</strong><br />

Executive Committee.<br />

Post 50 also was informed by <strong>the</strong> WWII 60th Anniversary<br />

Committee that <strong>the</strong> proposal had generated interest within <strong>the</strong> leadership<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> U.S. military and <strong>the</strong> federal government. Both could be expected<br />

to send senior level representation to <strong>the</strong> ceremonies. Former Sen. George<br />

McGovern, a WWII veteran, and former Vatican Ambassador Lindy<br />

Boggs have expressed interest in participating.<br />

To help veterans and <strong>the</strong>ir families to attend, two tour companies are<br />

coordinating travel plans. Both <strong>of</strong>fer transportation to an opening<br />

reception and <strong>the</strong> ceremonies, as well as a variety <strong>of</strong> sightseeing<br />

opportunities. Information is available by contacting Andy Ambrose <strong>of</strong><br />

Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours (which will provide a historic military<br />

perspective) at (888) 903-3329, or Harriet Balter <strong>of</strong> Rich Worldwide<br />

Travel (which will highlight Italian culture and history) at (914) 835-<br />

7600 ext. 134 or (800) 431-1130.<br />

For additional information on participation, contact Kenneth G.<br />

Kraetzer, Jr. at (914) 381-5353 or by e-mail at kgk914@aol.com. Please<br />

direct media inquiries to John Chuhran at (914) 235-5523 or by e-mail at<br />

jtchuhran@aol.com.<br />

In Memoriam<br />

LTG John Norton died <strong>of</strong> cancer in his home in Basye, Va., on 6 Dec<br />

2004, at age 86. Norton served in <strong>the</strong> Army nearly 40 years. He<br />

received four Distinguished Service Medals, four Silver Stars and four<br />

Legion <strong>of</strong> Merits, two Bronze Stars, <strong>the</strong> Air Medal and <strong>the</strong> Combat<br />

<strong>Infantry</strong>man’s Badge. On 22 Sept 2004, he received <strong>the</strong> Doughboy<br />

Award for his contributions to combat <strong>Infantry</strong>.<br />

LTG John Norton stands with BG (P) Benjamin Freakley, MG (Ret) Jerry White and<br />

CSM Michael A. Kelso at <strong>the</strong> Doughboy Award Ceremony.


★ News and Awards ★<br />

COL John Davoren, in-coming Commander, 69th Troop<br />

Command, KSARNG, <strong>the</strong> new senior <strong>Infantry</strong>man in Kansas,<br />

presented <strong>the</strong> OSM to COL Lyn Smith, out-going Commander,<br />

69th Troop Command during his change <strong>of</strong> command and<br />

retirement ceremony on 6 Nov 2004 in Wichita, Kan.<br />

MSG Blaine Huston (left) was awarded <strong>the</strong> OSM on 2 Dec<br />

2004 at <strong>the</strong> CONUS Replacement Center Battalion<br />

Formation/Promotion Ceremony. Pictured with Huston is LTC<br />

Gary L. Spry, Commander, CONUS Replacement Center,<br />

Fort Benning.<br />

MG Rick Erlandson, 34th (Red Bull) Commander, and COL<br />

Don Kerr (OSM 00315), 34th (Red Bull) <strong>Chief</strong> <strong>of</strong> Staff, present<br />

<strong>the</strong> OSM to SGM Steve Bender, 34th Field Training Group, at<br />

<strong>the</strong> Red Bull's annual Dining Out on 4 Dec 2004.<br />

SMA (Ret) William A. Connelly received <strong>the</strong> Doughboy Award<br />

on 22 Sept 2004 during <strong>the</strong> <strong>Infantry</strong> Conference. Pictured<br />

from left to right are: BG (P) Benjamin C. Freakley; CSM<br />

Michael A. Kelso; Connelly; Mrs. Bennie Connelly, who<br />

received <strong>the</strong> Shield <strong>of</strong> Sparta; and MG (Ret) Jerry A. White.<br />

SSG Nye, Alpha Company 2-11 IN IOBC Class 4-04 Cadre<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cycle, was presented <strong>the</strong> OSM by COL (Ret) Puckett (left),<br />

Honorary Commander, 75th Ranger Regiment, on 7 Oct 2004.<br />

LT Bump (right) narrated <strong>the</strong> event. MAJ Hollis, Commander<br />

Alpha Company 2-11 IN stands in <strong>the</strong> background.<br />

LTC Philip J. Carey, PM Javelin Missile, Huntsville, Ala.,<br />

was presented <strong>the</strong> OSM on 19 Oct 2004 by COL<br />

Michael K. Beasock, TRADOC Systems Manger, Close<br />

Combat Missiles.<br />

COL Charles W. Durr, Jr., Director <strong>of</strong> Combat<br />

Developments, U.S. Army <strong>Infantry</strong> Center,<br />

presented Leon N. Tomlinson, Department <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> Army civilian, with <strong>the</strong> OSM Civis on 17<br />

Dec 2004 in <strong>the</strong> Bayonet Room, <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

Hall, Fort Benning, Ga.<br />

SSG Jernardo Marmo <strong>of</strong> 2-46 <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

received his Legionnaire OSM from LTC<br />

Jerry Cashion, 2-46 <strong>Infantry</strong> Commander, at<br />

<strong>the</strong> first meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals chapter<br />

in Fort Knox, Ky., on 15 Oct 2004.<br />

SFC Richard Stepanek <strong>of</strong> 1-46 <strong>Infantry</strong><br />

speaks to members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>essionals<br />

chapter, Fort Knox, Ky., at <strong>the</strong>ir first meeting<br />

as an active chapter after being presented<br />

with <strong>the</strong> Centurion level OSM by 2LT Hank<br />

Hamblin on 15 Oct 2004.<br />

www.infantryassn.com 21

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