Berserker Monthly- October edition - Evansville Courier & Press

Rank/ Name: SPC Steven Schmitt
Section: 3 RD PLT – 1 ST Squad
Unit: A BTRY 163 FA BN
Location: FOB Diamondback
Hometown: Evansville, Indiana
SPC Steve Schmitt, gunner
for 3 RD Platoon, is the Berserker
Hero of the Month for October.
SPC Schmitt was recently
sent 300 soccer balls from private
contributor, Chuck Nab. With his
daily observation of children on
convoy security missions in Mosul,
Steven wanted the opportunity to
deliver them to local children.
His opportunity came early
in October when the 18 TH CSSB
Chaplain Gerald Woodford put
SPECIAL PICTURE ISSUE: THE LAST AND FINAL EDITION OF THE BERSERKER MONTHLY
Berserker Monthly
SGT ERNEST GRIFFIN A BTRY 1-163 FA OCTOBER 2008
The sun sets behind the Berserker Tactical Operations Center: symbolic for
Alpha Battery’s rapidly approaching departure in just a matter of days.
BERSERKER HERO
Of the Month
together a team of soldiers to go in
to Mosul, Iraq for a Humanitarian
mission. The group included two
Alpha Battery soldiers: SPC Steven
Schmitt and SPC Jerry Mikesell.
SPC Schmitt acted without
thought of himself on the mission
and was instrumental in providing
many local Iraqi children with
books, clothing and of course,
soccer balls. Being the largest
national sport in Iraq, the soccer
balls were well received by the
children and their families.
The actions taken by SPC
Steven Schmitt are noteworthy and
deserving of the Berserker Hero of
the Month Award and serves as a
model for all Berserker’s. ***
***For more pictures of the Humanitarian Mission see page 15

Our October Edition of the Berserker Monthly is our
last, but not least. The editor, SGT Ernie Griffin, has done an
outstanding job supporting our Soldiers, their families and our
community with this amazing product throughout the course of
this tour. Words cannot express how happy we are with the
response received from our Berserker Coloring Contest. To date
we have received over 1000 colored pictures back from children
in the Tri State area. It’s always nice to see support from our
family and friends back home.
Our replacements arrived in Mosul, Iraq today and we
are all living together in temporary housing until we depart. It is
easy to look past the next couple of weeks, but our job today is
as difficult as it has ever been since we have arrived. We
understand the importance of taking one day at a time until we
get on the plane. Our list of accomplishments here are
astonishing. I could not be more proud of a unit for the job they
have done. I have not seen another unit in this country with a list
of accomplishments as long as the Berserkers.
The roller coaster of events was as mentally as it was
physically challenging. Because we were so successful does not
mean we didn’t have adversity over the course of the past year.
However, their ability to bounce back and make the mission
happen every time is a testament to our strong teams and their
perseverance.
Commander
Well it is that time of the month where I get the pleasure of communicating some of what we have
accomplished and have planned here in Mosul, Iraq. This last year has been long, intense and fulfilling to say the
least. We have accomplished almost every benchmark and goal the commander and I have set for ourselves. When
the unit we replaced explained their problems getting things and making things happen because of whatever reason,
we made those our priorities and made it happen. Networking and resourcing our Berserkers with everything we
could possibly get in theatre to accomplish our mission with optimal efficiency was our main focus and that was
accomplished. Statistically we have set the standard for convoy security companies to achieve and will leave this
area of operation better than the way we found it! Our contribution to the Iraqi people and to Operation Iraqi
Freedom has been complimented by all echelons of our various commands.
As we pack up and welcome our replacements we are sustaining our mission operation tempo and ensuring
that all that we have gained in proficiency is passed on. The finish line is near but I can assure you all our guard is
still up and “mission first” remains our Berserker battle cry. The next few weeks are going to be just another
challenge that we will hit head on. We look forward to making our way back home to our families and friends and
begin to celebrate our achievements. We are coming home stronger, more mature and full of memories that we can
look back on for ages and know we did everything we set out to do almost one year ago. Be proud of your soldier as
I am of each and every one of them.
God Speed, Berserker 7 – OUT!!!
As we transition to home life as does my focus.
However, my concern for my Soldier’s wellbeing has not
changed. We will be checking in periodically on each of them to
help us gauge what assistance is required for each individual
Soldier. Families need to understand something ahead of time.
Soldiers here have done things they have never done before.
They have seen things they have never seen before. These things
affect everyone differently. In some way, we have lived our
lives here and you have lived your lives at home separately.
As a previously deployed Soldier I can say some
families will not only need to grow back together, but do so after
being subjected to some of life’s most challenging
circumstances. 1SG Fulkerson and I will be here to support each
you in any positive way we can. Reintegration back home is as
much of my responsibility of ours as a Soldier’s well being in
combat. Our Soldiers deserve the best of everything for their
contribution to our great nation. Without each Soldier and the
support of their families back home, we could not have
accomplished this mission.
Thank you all again for your support and a mission very
well accomplished to my Berserker family. Galatians 5:1: “Stand
fast therefore in the liberty in which Christ has made us free.”
Berserker 6 Out!!!
FIRST
SERGEANT

Greetings from Mosul, Iraq again. The month
of October flew by which means we are much closer
to coming home to friends and family. The platoon
was hard at work this month rolling on missions and
conducting other mission specific tasks. The platoon
again has shown its character by being able to switch
missions at the drop of a hat.
Our platoon was the sole representative in the
NCO and Soldier of the Quarter Competition this past
month. SGT Scott Milcareck and SPC Ignacio Diaz
had the opportunity to represent not only 1 ST platoon,
but the company as well.
All the men and women of 1 ST Platoon are
anxious to get back to their families. We have started
to pack up most of gear anxiously waiting the new
unit to come and replace us. All the soldiers
appreciate your prayers and ask that you keep praying
for us as this deployment comes to an end. Romans
3:23 Acts 20:24
Berserker 1-6 out!
1st
Platoon
1Lt Andrew Hilden “Candy Man” SFC Luke Hill “SMOKE”
SPC William Waller, gunner for an M1151
HMMWV, checks his 240B before mission.
1LT Andrew Hilden poses with Albanian soldiers
that travelled with 1 ST Platoon to FOB Q-West.
Everyone here in 1 st platoon is doing
well and looking forward to coming home.
The platoon did a good job of reacting to the
new mission set that we are doing now. We
had to lose a couple of great NCO’s and
soldiers to help the other three platoons run
their mission.
We are preparing to move out of our
“cans” and into transient housing while the new
unit that replaces us takes our old rooms. We
are looking forward to training up the new unit
that will take our mission over when we leave.
All the guys are very excited to come home and
be with their families again.
Berserker 1-7out!
SPC Michael Baughn, gunner for 1 ST Platoon,
is waiting for a convoy brief before a mission.
SPC Stephen Lupfer is caught taking a nap on top
of his armored MRAP before a convoy mission.

1 st Platoon soldiers talk while they wait
for KBR to show up for a convoy mission.
SPC Ignacio Diaz talks to SSG Richard
Taylor and CPL Lacey Ashby at the range.
SPC Diaz, SPC Gibson and 1LT Hilden
try a Charlie’s Angels pose at the range.
SGT Shaune Clark shakes the hand of the
Brigade Commander, COL Courtney Carr.
1st PLATOON
SPC Thawatchai Phapinit, 240B gunner, scans his area
for possible enemy while on a Convoy Logistics Patrol.
1 st Platoon soldiers hold up their qualification cards to
show off their scores after an M4 qualification range.
*
CPL Richard Gregory, SGT Arthur Davey, and SGT
Patrick Weber pose for the camera at the rifle range.

The month of October has gone by really fast.
We have been really busy as a platoon. Some of the
things that have been keeping us busy include: moving
out of our housing into temporary housing, running
several missions, and preparing to return home.
While the deployment hasn’t been that long we
have accumulated a lot of extra comfort items. So
moving into the temporary housing was quite difficult.
With only space for two duffle bags, we had to carefully
decide what to keep with us, sell to new units or mail
home. Some items that people acquired over the
deployment were televisions, refrigerators, microwaves,
and game systems to name a few.
Everyone in second platoon enjoys running the
new mission set that we have recently picked up. Our
mission tempo has kept us very busy, but it has helped
pass the time that remains on this deployment. We
continue to stay mission- focused and have not become
complacent. Because of the high demand and the high
stress of missions some soldiers take time at Habur Gate
to watch television, play cards, and get in touch with
family members.
2ND
Platoon
October has Come and Gone Home is Only Weeks Away
2LT McCoy, CPL Mauck, and CPL Staalenburg
relax around the television after a mission.
SPC Jonathan Witham gets on the computer
to contact his family after a long mission.
As we get closer to going home everyone is
getting very excited. In order to get ready to go home,
we are turning in equipment that can be mailed back
to the state or that can remain in country for other
soldiers use. Some of these items are protective
masks, NOMEX uniforms, and chemical suits.
Soldiers are preparing to return to their
civilian lives. We are all ready to go back to work,
school, and families. Soldiers are anxious to return to
their routine obligations and duties. One duty they
have is to vote. Many soldiers took the opportunity
to receive their absentee ballot in the mail. Despite
being in Iraq some soldiers still were able to do their
part as an American and vote.
As we prepare to complete our mission, we
still have many long days and nights ahead of us.
Even though we are all really excited to be going
home, we still have to focus on our jobs. Each
member of platoon will be grateful when the work
they have put in will be a distant memory in the past.
BERSERKER 2-6 and BERSERKER 2-7 OUT!
It looks like the duffel bags are bigger than
SPC Brad Wilson, who we call “Chuck.”

Al the Interpreter and SPC Stephens talk
to Local Nationals before a mission.
SSG Brinker helps a Local National
fix his truck before a convoy mission.
2 ND Platoon gets together after a mission
to play a quick game of Apples to Apples.
SPC Mickel Yates takes a quick catnap
in between convoy security missions.
2 nd PLATOON
SPC Michelle Delashmutt is thrilled to turn her gas
mask in to supply. One step closer to going home!
It’s time to pack for redeployment! SPC Jacob Kirsch
is stuffing his duffel bags again, this time for good.
*
SPC Mewes and CPL Staalenburg check the weapons
systems one more time while putting on their gear.

We are almost at the end and within a
blink of the eye we will be back with our loved
ones. Throughout my career I have had the
pleasure to serve with many great Soldiers and
am proud to have had the opportunity to lead
3 rd Platoon in a successful tour.
Your loved ones served honorably for
the United States and the people of Iraq. These
Soldiers represent the best part of being an
American and the force that signifies freedom
world-wide.
As our replacements arrive we will
train them effectively to continue the great
work that we have started. With every new
Soldier from the unit replacing us arrives there
is a sigh of relief that our Soldiers let out. We
know we are almost home, but will continue to
remain vigilant until the day that we feel your
loving embrace.
BERSERKER 3–6
3RD
Platoon
SFC DARREL EDWARDS SGT STEVEN OSBORNE
SPC William Pugh stands outside of the 3 RD
PLT Connex waiting for something to happen.
CPL Sol Peralta does something incredible with
his face to impress his fellow 3 RD PLT soldiers.
Greetings families and friends of all my
3 rd PLT Berserkers. It is that time – the time that
you and all of your soldiers have been waiting
for. We only have a couple of weeks left here in
glorious Mosul. I would like take some time to
reflect on the past year, and say a few words
about all the great things we have accomplished.
There have been a few hard times, and
lots of good times. All third platoon soldiers
have performed above and beyond, any other
unit that I have ever seen. Often times we have
found our-selves having to adapt to change at a
very rapid pace. We have had numerous mission
changes that we have been able to jump right in
and take over with no problems.
I would like to express my gratitude to
all of you back home that have supported these
fine soldiers. Thanks for the countless care
packages, and all of the things you sent to keep
us in good spirits.
BERSERKER 3–7
SFC Darrel Edwards discusses the route with
SPC Justin Walsh before a security mission.

3 RD PLT vehicles stage up at the CRSP
yard before a convoy security mission.
3 RD PLT soldiers waiting in the motor
pool through night vision goggles.
CPL Brandon Beehler secures a tow bar
to the front of an M1151 HMMWV.
SGT Bryan McIntire distributes chow
to his soldiers before a convoy mission.
3 RD PLATOON
SSG James Vandine sits in an armored HMMTT
wrecker before a convoy mission to Habur Gate.
SGT Ronald Zeller and SPC Adam Moseman discuss
a convoy manifest before 3 RD Platoon’s mission prep.
SPC Eric Slater, gunner for 3 RD PLT from the 18 TH
CSSB takes care of business in an M1151 turret.

The past month has been very
busy for the PLT. We have made the
switch from doing a logistical mission
to running convoy security with the
rest of the Berserkers.
The other platoon’s have been
extremely helpful with getting us
trained up and ready for this task.
Since we started doing Gun-Truck
Missions we have already done over
30 missions.
The Soldiers of 4 th Platoon have
continually been very flexible with all
of the changes and have worked
extremely hard. I am continually proud
of them and know that they will
always strive to do their best.
4TH
Platoon
2LT JASON BENTON SFC THOMAS FLYNN
SFC Flynn and SSG Pelley work together
to install a canopy on the turret of a PLS.
SSG Pelley takes a picture during a mission
while riding in the turret of an M1114.
Things have been changing a
lot within the Platoon. The Soldiers
have adapted quickly to all of the
changes and continue to roll with the
punches.
The platoon is doing well and
continually setting higher standards for
themselves. While doing our convoy
security mission we have still been
able to carry out a logistics mission of
hauling mail alongside the rest of the
Berserkers.
The Platoon will continue to
successfully complete mission after
mission and would like to offer our
congratulations to all Berserker’s for a
job well done!
SGT Draper receives a class on how to operate
the load system by SFC Flynn and CPL Jaquez.

4 th PLT Soldiers work on a PLS in the
18 TH CSSB Joint Battalion Motor Pool.
This is how CPL Jaquez normally looks
when he gets his car towed in Germany.
CPL Jaquez and CPL Claridy hooks up
tow chains to a PLS before mission.
SPC Tan tightens lug nuts on a Palletized
Loading System before a convoy mission.
4 TH PLATOON
4 th Platoon staged and ready for yet another convoy
security mission from COS Marez-East to Q-West.
SFC Thomas Flynn stands out front of 4 th PLT after a
Combat Patch ceremony outside of the company TOC.

SFC Anthony Wester - Maintenance Chief SFC Anthony Maxwell – Motor Sergeant
I would first like to say Thank You to all of
our loved ones back in Indiana, your prayers and
support have helped us each and every day of this
deployment.
Our mission here in the Motor Pool has been
a challenge from the time we arrived in March with
the onset of equipment that none of the mechanics
had ever worked, and again in July when the Battery
received the new MRAP’s, but with the guidance
from all of our Field Service Representatives, we
were able to move forward and continue with the
maintenance mission of services and repairs.
Along with servicing all of the equipment, the
maintenance section was tasked with providing
wrecker support to all of the convoy missions as well.
Your A Battery mechanics have performed far above
any expectations I had coming into theater. Not only
do they lead the Battalion in maintenance, they lead
the whole Brigade. I commend them on this outstanding
achievement.
** *
I would just like to say thanks to all of you
and to all your love ones. Alpha Battery 163 RD FA
maintenance section has lead the way in every
aspect of maintenance the entire time we’ve been
deployed in theater and will continue to lead the
way wherever they go. It is my belief that these
men can complete any mission no matter what it
entails or where it may take them. It has been a
pleasure to serve with these soldiers. I would
recommend them to any command. Thank you.
SPC Frank Jones replaces a broken head-light
on one of our HMMT wrecker recovery trucks. SSG James “PeePaw” Vandine works under an
FMTV troop carrier in the maintenance bay.
SSG Brinker at Q-West during the new Retro-
Fit process for our Armored Security Vehicles.
BERSERKER
MAINTENANCE
M
A
I
N
T
E
N
A
N
C
E
SSG Donald Myrick (now SFC Myrick) looking
good as we train to fight at FT Stewart, Georgia.
SGT Curtis Drake and SFC Samuel Spencer
discuss PMCS in the joint maintenance bay.

BERSERKER MAINTENANCE
SFC Spencer and SFC Cambell hard at
work reinstalling a HMMWV tire.
SGT Messer performs an accountability
check on truck tools in the Tool Room.
SPC Kenneth Lewis Standing in front of
his wrecker before a recovery mission.
SGT Elvin Streets walking to “Deadline
Row” to perform maintenance duties.
IN ACTION
SPC Sean Rosner performs routine maintenance on
a Heavy-Armored M1151 HMMWV in the shop.
SGT Goodwin, the unit TAMMS clerk, works hard to
make sure the unit’s logistical issues are squared away.
*
The Godfather, SPC (P) Jerry Mikesell in the city of
Mosul on a humanitarian mission. The kids loved him.

Berserker Work
SPC Kyle Rickenbaugh pulls on his
protective gear before a convoy mission.
SPC Michael Baughn adjusts a spotlight
on his Armored Security Vehicle (ASV).
SSG Taylor reviews a few platoon hand
receipts in the Berserker Supply Office.
SPC Steven Schmitt takes time to inspect
and clean his weapon after a mission.
PFC Justin Walsh uses an air compressor to wash
the dirt off of his MRAP after a convoy mission.
CPL Lance Yearby turns pork chops on a homemade
grill outside of the Supply and Commo work areas.
SSG Matthew Brinker is inside of an armored HEMTT
Wrecker used for vehicle recovery on convoy missions.

Berserker Command
CSM Gregory Rhoades and COL Courtney Carr read
over the latest edition of the Berserker Monthly.
CPT Matthew Haywood shows COL Carr the outer
perimeter and the battle drills for defending it.
1SG Fulkerson and CSM Knies discuss plans for new
improvement in the Alpha Battery joint Motor Pool.
LTC Vesper inspects the Berserker Mission Tracking
Board – designed to keep track of daily operations.
1SG Fulkerson points out the modification that SGT
Clark created to mount a mine roller onto an MRAP.
COL Carr covers SGT Griffin’s rock in a Paper, Rock,
Scissors showdown which SGT Griffin was victorious.

Berserker Benevolence
SPC Steven Schmitt and
SPC (P) Jerry Mikesell recently
had the opportunity to go into
Mosul on a charitable mission to
deliver toys and clothing to the
local Iraqi’s.
SPC Schmitt received 300
soccer balls from Chuck Nab, a
private contributor, and had the
tremendous pleasure, along with
SPC Jerry Mikesell, of passing
them out to children and families
within the city.
Chaplain Gerald Woodford
and Chaplain Assistant SSG
Payten Redfearn from the 18 TH
CSSB coordinated the event and
pictures are shown here.

*
HERO
Of the week
SPC WILLIAM PUGH
BOONVILLE, IN
SPC William Pugh, driver for 3 RD
PLT, has performed his role above
and beyond the call of duty. SPC
Pugh is the driver for the Convoy
Commander and PLT Sergeant, SFC
Darrel Edwards: a demanding and
rigorous role that requires him to
work at an elevated sense of security
and personal courage. With his
flawless performance, selfless service
and strict attention to detail, SPC
Pugh was nominated for this award.
*
SPC DAVIS KORACH
EVANSVILLE, IN
SPC Davis Korach, ASV Gunner for
2 ND PLT has been awarded as the
Berserker Hero of the Week. SPC
Korach has shown leadership skills in
the absence of guidance and the
ability to lead soldiers when the job
needs to get done. SPC Korach
travels along some of the most
dangerous routes in Iraq and does so
with courage and without hesitation.
These fine attributes are what make
SPC Korach a Hero of the week.
Berserker Hero’s
LOGISTICS
Hero Award
SPC (P) JERRY MIKESELL
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
SPC Jerry Mikesell is the Logistic Hero
for the month of October. This is Jerry’s
second award for his efforts, which
continue to shine above the rest of his
peers. Not only does Jerry contribute to
maintenance and supply logistics, he also
acts as a mentor and guide for many
Alpha Battery Berserker’s. SPC Mikesell
was also hand-picked to participate in the
Humanitarian mission in Mosul based on
his hard work, positive attitude, and
overall desire to be helpful. ***
CPL LACEY ASHBY
EVANSVILLE, IN
CPL Lacey received the Logistics Hero
Award for September for her weapons
maintenance and logistic support. CPL
Ashby created and enforced the Alpha
Battery Weapons Maintenance Program
in which all crew-served and individual
weapons were rotationally inspected and
serviced. She also helped the Platoons on
a regular basis by acting as a gunner on
many Convoy Security Logistic Patrols.
CPL Ashby continues to set the standard
and prove herself as a fine NCO.
*** The full article of SPC Mikesell’s Humanitarian Mission is on page 15
EAGLE EYE
Award
SPC STEVEN LUPFER
EVANSVILLE, IN
SPC Lupfer was performing his
driving duties when he spotted an
IED along his route. EOD was able
to secure the route and detonate the
explosive device in place to clear
the road. SPC Lupfer’s attention to
detail and quick decision making
potentially saves the lives of his
Platoon and prevented injury to his
Unit. SPC Lupfer was also a Hero
of the Week for October and given
an Army Commendation medal.
*
CPL KOREY MAUCK
JASPER, IN
CPL Korey T. Mauck performed his
role as gunner during a combat patrol
on his assigned route when he
spotted an improvised explosive
device. CPL Mauck’s find on the
route prevented injury to his unit and
to other units in the immediate area.
CPL Mauck’s attention to detail and
personal courage make him eligible
to receive the prestigious Eagle Eye
Award. He also was presented with
the Berserker of the Week Award.

SSG Albright, Billy
SPC Baughn, Michael
SPC Brown, Jay
SGT Clark, Shaune
CPL Davis, Karl
SFC Edwards, Darrel
SPC Frigerio, Elias
SPC Goebel, Dwayne
SPC Hargrave, Hilary
ALPHA BATTERY
SSG Antrim, Norman
CPL Beehler, Brandon
CPL Bruce, Louis
SGT Cleavenger, William
SPC Delashmutt, Laura
CPL Ellington, Jessica
SPC Frizzell, Travis
SGT Goodwin, Jason
SPC Harris, David
BERSERKER’S
CPL Ashby, Lacey
SPC Boger, Daniel
SSG Budd, Tracy
SGT Cohee, Steven
SPC Diaz, Ignacio
CPL Ellis, Dwight
1SG Fulkerson, David
SPC Gray, Donald
CPT Haywood, Matthew
SPC Aubrey, Caleb
SSG Brinker, Matthew
SFC Campbell, Donald
SPC Coots, Timothy
SPC Dixon, Phillip
SPC Esche, Frederick
SPC Fyffe, Christian
CPL Gregory, Richard
SPC Hedge, Jonathan
CPL Barrentine, Jerry
SSG Brown, Carrol
SPC Carter, Torie
SPC Coulter, Travis
SGT Drake, Curtis
CPL Fehrenbacher, Aaron
SSG Gallagher, Timothy
SGT Griffin, Ernest
1LT Hilden, Andrew
SPC Barrentine, Michael
SPC Brown, James
SFC Cates, Michael
SPC Davis, James
SSG Durham, John
SPC Fisher, Jared
SPC Gibson, Robert
SPC Grove, Jacob
SFC Hill, Luke

SPC Hubbard, Adam
SPC Kemp, Ian
SPC Lewis, Kenneth
SPC McDowell, James
SGT Milcarek, Scott
1LT Nunn, Casey
CPL Peralta, Sol
SPC Rickenbaugh, Kyle
SPC Sorrell, Daniel
CPL Hughes, James
SPC Kerzan, Timothy
SPC Lupfer, Steven
SPC McGinnis, Thomas
CPL Miller, Johnny
SPC Ohara, Shane
SGT Perry, Stephanie
SGT Riddle, Michael
SFC Spencer, Samuel
SGT Jackson, Larry
SPC Kirsch, Jacob
SPC Maddox, Cody
SGT McIntire, Bryan
SPC Moseman, Adam
SGT Olivo Michael
SPC Phapinit, Thawatchai
SPC Roebling, Richard
CPL Staalenburg, John
SGT James, April
SPC Korach, Davis
CPL Mauck, Korey
SGT Messer, Jay
SGT Muha, Jason
SGT Osborne, Stephen
CPL Pigman, Michael
SPC Rosner, Sean
SPC Steele, Anthony
SPC Johns, Clifford
SSG Lakes, Matthew
SFC Maxwell, Anthony
SPC Mewes, Drew
SSG Myrick, Donald
SGT Overfield, John
SPC Pugh, William
SPC Schmitt, Steven
SPC Stephens, Alexander
SPC Jones, Frank
SPC Law, Jarrett
2LT McCoy, Zachary
SPC Mikesell, Jerry
CPL Neidlinger, Alex
SPC Patrick, Zachary
CPL Ramirez, Christopher
CPL Schweikhart, Nicholas
SGT Streets, Elvin
CPL Taylor, Matthew SSG Taylor, Richard SPC Tucker, John CPL Tyrrell, Dale SPC Upshaw, Domonique SPC Ussery, Jason

SSG Vandine, James SPC Waller, William SPC Walsh, Justin SGT Weber, Patrick SPC Wells, Travis SFC Wester, Anthony
SPC Wharton, Jeremy SPC Wilke, Ryan SPC Williams, Cherra SPC Williams, Gilbert SPC Williams, Justin SPC Wilson, Bradley
SPC Witham, Johnathan SPC Woolever, Richard SPC Yates, Mickel CPL Yearby, Lance SGT Zeller, Ronald SPC Zenker, Kristopher
REFRAD SOLDIERS
CAMP Atterbury, Indiana
• SPC Wildt, Tamara
• SPC Bitter, Rayne
• SPC Poe, Jesse
• SPC Brandon Neumann
• SPC Kenan Bliss
• SGT Addison, Gregory
• SGT Pickett, Mark
• SGT James Pazzaglia
ALPHA BATTERY
1-163 rd FA BERSERKERS
REFRAD SOLDIERS
FT Stewart, Georgia
• PFC Fyffe, John
• SPC Law, Jarrett
• SPC Sanford, Charles
• CPL Miller, Johnny
• SGT Cleavenger, William
REFRAD SOLDIERS
FOB Marez-East, Iraq
• SPC Ohara, Shane
• SPC Brown, Jay
• CPL Ramirez, Chris
• CPL Barrentine, Jerry
• CPL Bruce, Louis
• CPL Ellis, Dwight
• SSG Gallagher, Timothy
REFRAD Soldiers are those that were removed from deployment due to injury, illness,
family tragedies or inability to deploy due to extra-ordinary circumstances. Some soldiers in
red and blue may not be pictured due to absence during the creation of the Berserker Company
Photos. All Soldiers listed were a part of Alpha Battery on or after December 10, 2007.

BERSERKERS in ACTION
Alpha Battery, 1-163d Field Artillery would like to extend deep gratitude to our Brigade Public Affairs Representative,
SSG Lesley Newport. SSG Newport worked tirelessly to ensure that as many Berserkers as possible were included in
his photography. SSG Newport has taken all pre-mission pictures seen above as well as many more featured in this
article. On behalf of all Alpha Battery soldiers: “Thank you for your dedication to the mission and all Berserkers!”

LITTLE BERSERKER ARRIVALS
JAMES RYAN YEARBY PROUD FATHER: CPL LANCE YEARBY
CPL Lance Yearby, the Communications NCO for A
BTRY, is the proud father of one of the newest Berserker
arrivals. James Ryan Yearby was born in Owensboro,
Kentucky at Owensboro Mercy Hospital on September 16 th
at 7:55 AM. James weighed in at 7 lbs, 8 oz, 20” long and
had all the fine attributes one would expect to find in a
fierce and healthy Berserker baby boy.
CPL Yearby was fortunate enough to be present in
Owensboro with his spouse Jamie Yearby at the time of
James’ birth. When asked about how he felt about having
his second child “I’m glad it’s a boy. I’m excited and can’t
wait to get home and be with my family!”
On Behalf of all A BTRY Berserkers:
Congratulations CPL Yearby!
MAKAYLA ELIZABETH LUPFER PROUD FATHER: SPC STEVEN LUPFER
SPC Steven Lupfer, an MRAP driver and a 240-B
machine gunner for 1 ST Platoon, is the proud father of yet
another Berserker arrival. Makayla Elizabeth Lupfer was
born in Evansville, Indiana at the Deaconess Women’s
Hospital on August 25 TH at 11:53 AM. James weighed in at
7 lbs flat, 21” long and had all the fine attributes one would
expect to find in a fierce and healthy Berserker baby girl.
SPC Lupfer was fortunate enough to be present in
Evansville with his spouse Alicia Lupfer at the time of
Makalyla’s birth. When asked about how he felt about being
a new father “It was awesome – it was great! Words cannot
explain what little bit of time I got to spend with her!”
On Behalf of all A BTRY Berserkers:
Congratulations SPC Lupfer!

IRIS ELIZABETH DIAZ PROUD FATHER: SPC IGNACIO DIAZ
SPC Ignacio Diaz, the Communications Assistant
and driver for 1 ST Platoon, is the proud father of one
precious Berserker arrival. Iris Elizabeth Diaz was born in
South Bend, Indiana at St. Joes Hospital on August 15 at
1:38 AM. Iris weighed in at 6 lbs, 6 oz, 19.4” long and had
all the fine attributes one would expect to find in a fierce
and healthy Berserker baby girl.
SPC Diaz was fortunate enough to be present in
South Bend with his spouse Carol Diaz at the time of Iris’
birth. When asked about how he felt about having his first
child he said: “It’s some of the happiest moments I have
ever experienced and am waiting for more of them with my
new family.”
On Behalf of all A BTRY Berserkers:
Congratulations SPC Diaz!
TOTAL BERSERKER BABY COUNT SINCE DECEMBER 10, 2007: 12
JESSICA MARIE TUCKER PROUD FATHER: SPC JOHN TUCKER
SPC John Tucker, an M1151 Driver for 1 ST Platoon,
is the proud father of the newest Berserker arrival. Jessica
Marie Tucker was born in Evansville, Indiana at Deaconess
Women’s Hospital on September 22 ND at 12:35 PM. Jessica
weighed in at 7 lbs, 5 oz, 22” long and had all the fine
attributes one would expect to find in a fierce and healthy
Berserker baby girl.
SPC Tucker was fortunate enough to be present in
Evansville with his spouse Andrea Tucker at the time of
Jessica’s birth. When asked about how he felt about having
his first child he said: “It’s a whole new life being a father.
Now everything I do shapes the way she is.”
On Behalf of all A BTRY Berserkers:
Congratulations SPC Tucker!

JAMES ISAAC BROWN
To the families and friends of Alpha Battery Berserkers
and the 1-163 Field Artillery Battalion let me say hello. My
name is XO, LT Nunn or Casey to most. I am the Executive
Officer for Alpha Battery and for the past year it has been my
privilege to get to know your Soldiers through the highs and
lows of a year spent in service to our Nation. This past year has
been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences for
our Soldiers in Alpha Battery. And this edition of the Berserker
Newsletter brings with it the end of that year and the end of our
deployment here in Mosul, Iraq.
But let me start out by saying that I have the deepest
respect and appreciation for our Soldiers serving here in Mosul.
It amazes me to watch them operate in spite of the danger and
fear that comes from performing our particular mission in this
region of Iraq. It is difficult to sugar coat or minimize the
danger and real world events which our Soldiers have faced
here. Our Soldiers have experienced more contact with the
enemy than any other unit in the Brigade. And with that I will
say please know that our Soldiers have faced more challenges,
both physically and emotionally, than many will experience in a
lifetime.
However, these dangers have not been met with
complacency or detachment. The leadership of A Battery has
ensured that every one of our Soldiers has the latest in
equipment, technology and training with which to use against
PROUD FATHER: SPC JAMES BROWN
SPC James Brown, an Operations Clerk and Information
Management Officer for Alpha Battery, is the proud father
of Berserker arrival. James Isaac Brown was born in
Indianapolis, Indiana at Methodist Hospital on August 31 at
2:04 PM. James weighed in at 8 lbs, 6 oz, 21” long and had
all the fine attributes one would expect to find in a fierce
and healthy Berserker baby boy.
SPC Brown was fortunate enough to be present in
Indianapolis with his spouse Amy Brown at the time of
James’ birth. When asked about how he felt about having
his first child he said: “It’s great – it’s a life changing
experience!”
XO’s
CORNER
On Behalf of all A BTRY Berserkers:
Congratulations SPC Brown!
our enemy. I can assure you that this equipment, technology
and training have prevented injury and saved lives countless
times on the roads of Iraq. The thing I want you to know is
that your Soldier’s welfare and safety have been the primary
focus of the leadership of our unit throughout this deployment
because we truly care about our Soldiers.
And to mention welfare, your support has been such
an asset to our mental and emotional well being throughout
the year here and I hope you are aware of that. The endless
supply of emails, letters and care packages has benefitted us
more than you probably know. I ask that as your Soldiers
come home, you continue to watch out for and support them
through the months and years following our deployment.
Become aware of the developmental, medical and
rehabilitative services offered to you and your Soldier and
don’t hesitate to use them if you or your Soldiers are in need.
Lastly, this has been a great year and you, the
families and friends of Alpha Battery Berserkers have helped
make it that way. We understand that when we deployed, you
deployed too and often times the worry and concern you
experienced for us was greater than the worry and concern we
experienced for ourselves while here. Know that you are a
part of our family and know that you have helped bring us
home safely. And until the day we are reunited and beyond,
let me extend a sincere, Thank You.

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BERSERKER PRIDE
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1. SPC Sherra Williams and SPC Elias
Frigerio receive their 76 th Infantry
Brigade Combat Patch in recognition
of spending 3 months in Iraq.
2. SGT Tracy Budd is seen receiving his
promotion to Staff Sergeant and
reading the NCO Creed to soldiers.
3. LTC David Vesper watches a combat
patch and promotion ceremony for the
1-163 rd FA Berserker’s in Mosul, Iraq.
4. PFC James Davis is seen receiving his
promotion to SPC with 1SG Fulkerson
and SSG Richard Taylor and shaking
hands with CSM Christopher Knies.
5. SSG Myrick receives his promotion to
Sergeant First Class with CSM Knies
and reads the NCO creed to soldiers.

BERSERKER BIRTHDAYS
SPC Richard Woolever
OCTOBER 3
SFC Darrel Edwards
OCTOBER 12
SPC Daniel Sorrel
OCTOBER 6
SSG John Durham
OCTOBER 15
SPC Mickel Yates
OCTOBER 7
BERSERKER GRAPHIC DESIGN
A BTRY Berserker’s cannot
believe the amount of participation from
the children from our tri-state area! We
want to thank all of you for such great
pictures and such a wonderful job!
CPT Matthew Haywood, our
Commanding Officer, has evaluated
each and every coloring page and has
decided the winners! Participants can
expect a letter in the mail for their effort
and the winners will receive official
notice in just a few weeks.
Schools that participated in this
event will also receive an official letter
for your cooperation in this event. We
received hundreds of coloring pages
from schools all over the tri-state area
and are eager to come and thank you
personally. We’ll be in touch!
Thank you parents and children
for making this a huge success! We look
forward to meeting the winners at our
Welcoming Ceremony in February!!!
SGT Overfield - creator of the coloring page.
SFC Anthony Maxwell
OCTOBER 8
SPC Ryan Wilke
OCTOBER 16
SGT Curtis Drake
OCTOBER 9
SPC Thomas McGinnis
OCTOBER 18

PHOTO of the MONTH
SFC Michael Cates’ High School Senior Photo – He graduated from Henderson
County Senior High School in 1984 – and yes, he was in the Science Club!
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
It has been a tremendous joy to have participated
in such a wonderful Newsletter. I could not have done it
without a good deal of help from friends and co-workers.
I would like to extend a debt of gratitude to the
Evansville Courier and Press for their constant flexibility
and understanding; my direct supervisor for the extra
time and the Platoons of Alpha Battery for their pictures,
articles and humor.
It is unbelievable to many of us that we are set to
return home in just a few weeks. I hope that the pictures
and words have allowed you to feel closer to your loved
ones as it has made me feel closer to you.
SGT Ernest Griffin