NCOs are the backbone of the unit and the Army. The Warrior Leaders Course is a two day event that helps prepare soldiers to take up the role of NCO, giving them the tools needed to be effective leaders. Candidates are those Specialists, Corporals, and Warrant Officers who have shown the potential and drive to be solid leaders of Fireteams or Flights as well as opening the opportunity for advancement to Sergeant and beyond.

Graduates:

Warrant Officer 1 Alvin Nikeus  
Corporal Jordan Duck 
Corporal Nolan Kovic 
Corporal Jordan Nicholas 
Specialist Danny Smiřický 
Specialist David Smith 

Instructors:

Major John LaFlash
First Sergeant Christoph Brock
Sergeant First Class Chris Winters

In March of 1965, the first U.S. troops entered the jungle-filled country of Vietnam. This would begin America’s involvement in one of the most controversial wars in history. While the service members were facing new dangers around every turn, the environment back home was growing increasingly hostile. As more of the population grew to protest the war, it became evident that the military members fighting in the jungles of Vietnam were quickly becoming public enemy number one.

By March of 1973, with the war ending, demonstrations in the States began to die down. However, disillusionment with the war was as widespread as ever. The troops were withdrawing from Vietnam, but no warm welcome and appreciation were waiting for them as they arrived home. The World War II era of celebration as troops returned to U.S. soil had passed, and the troops of the Vietnam era were met with nothing more than disdain, anger and protest. Even decades later, those who served in Vietnam were ignored or seen with the same contempt they were met with when they arrived home.

It wasn’t until 2007 when the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the Vietnam War was being observed that the movement to give Vietnam Veterans the acknowledgment they deserve genuinely took form. It was then that Congress authorized a program to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. However, it wasn’t until 2017 that Vietnam Veterans Day was officially established to be celebrated every year on March 29.

Along with establishing a specific day to acknowledge these veterans, there has been a movement across the country to give Vietnam Veterans the welcome home they never received 45 years ago. This movement encourages Americans to thank Vietnam Veterans, shake their hand, and tell them, ‘Welcome home,’ when they meet them. Each of these veterans sacrificed something in those jungles many decades ago. Many sacrificed everything — while over there, or after they returned home. It is long overdue that those men are given the welcome home and the gratitude they deserve.

To each and every Vietnam Veteran: Welcome Home

Image Credit: Amy Givens, Nebraska National Guard
 

Today the United States marks Medal of Honor Day, commemorating the heroism and selflessness of awardees.

The nation first celebrated the holiday on March 25, 1991 under the leadership of President George H. W. Bush.

The date, March 25, was chosen in remembrance of the first six recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor. These men were awarded on March 25, 1863 for actions performed during the famed Great Locomotive Chase.

Nationwide, groups and individuals paused to remember the 3,516 Medal of Honor recipients who have served our nation well. Of this total, 65 awardees are alive today.

The Medal of Honor signifies heroism, but also sacrifice. Let us remember the hard realities and the costs of war. And let us never forget those who gave everything they had so that we can enjoy what we have today.

The Parachutist Badge, also commonly referred to as "Jump Wings" or "Silver Wings" is a military badge of the United States Armed Forces awarded to members awarded to U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy.

Congratulations to the class of 23-01 (ARMA3) for completing Airborne School. Soldiers who have completed the school for the first time shall be awarded their Basic Parachutist Badge. Great job to everyone who attended. Airborne!

Graduates:

CPL Jordan Duck
CPL Austin Bills
CPL James Nicholas
SPC Danny Smiricky
SPC Jake Starling
PFC Piper Byrde
PFC David Hughson

Instructor(s):
1SG C.Brock (Jumpmaster)
MAJ J.LaFlash (Safety Officer)
SSG R.Ivanov (Safety Officer)

Aviation:
WO1 J.Tracey