Fort Carson Public Affairs

Press Releases

Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Release Number: 09-141

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Secretary of the Army visits Mountain Post

Nov. 17, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-141
Media Opportunity
Secretary of the Army visits Mountain Post

Fort Carson, Colo. —Secretary of the Army the Honorable John McHugh will visit Fort Carson troops and hold a media opportunity to discuss his visit to the Mountain Post Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

While on post McHugh will meet with Fort Carson leadership, discuss deployment cycles and the future of the Army and attend two memorial ceremonies for Fort Carson’s Soldiers.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by noon Wednesday, for meeting times and locations.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525 or (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, November 13, 2009
Release Number: 09-140

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Fort Carson, Colo. — Two memorial ceremonies for 15 Fort Carson Soldiers who were killed during combat operations in Afghanistan will be held Nov. 18, at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The first memorial ceremony will be for eight 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers and is scheduled for 11:30 a.m., and the second memorial ceremony will be for seven 4th Engineers Soldiers and is scheduled for 3 p.m.

Soldiers who will be memorialized are:

4th Infantry Division:

Staff Sgt. Justin T. Gallegos, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Staff Sgt. Vernon W. Martin, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Sgt. Joshua M. Hardt, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Sgt. Joshua J. Kirk, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Sgt. Michael P. Scusa, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Spc. Christopher T. Griffin, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Spc. Stephan L. Mace, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

Pfc. Kevin C. Thomson, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team

4th Engineer Battalion Soldiers:

Staff Sgt. Glen H. Stivison Jr., 576th Mobility Augmentation Company

Spc. Kevin O. Hill, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

Spc. Jesus O. Flores, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

Spc. Daniel C. Lawson, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

Spc. Eric N. Lembke, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

Spc. Kimble A. Han, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

Pfc. Brandon M. Styer, 569th Mobility Augmentation Company

The memorial ceremony is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Media are reminded that no recording devices or photography will be allowed in the chapel during the ceremony, but there will be opportunities outside of the chapel to photograph the rifle salute and the playing of Taps. Every effort will be made to provide a spokesperson who knew the Soldiers for interviews.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719)524-2446 by 4 p.m. Nov. 17, for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 / 7525 or (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-139

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1 BCT, 4 ID commemorates grand opening of Raider dining facility

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will host a ribbon cutting ceremony commemorating the grand opening of the new Raider Brigade Dining Facility at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 12.

Lt. Col. Greg Applegate, 1st BCT brigade support battalion commander, and Maj. Mark Vandersteen, 1st BCT BSB executive officer, will speak at the event. The Army Corps of Engineers will also have a representative on hand to present a plaque to the brigade during the ceremony.

The Raider Brigade will host an open house following the ceremony that will include tours of the new facility and the grand opening meal.

The state of the art, environmentally-friendly facility utilizes geo-thermal heating and cooling and uses natural lighting extensively.

Most notably, the dining facility features a drive through window, a Latin grill, a Rotisserie grill and a daily selection of fresh-made pizzas.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 8:30 a.m. Nov. 12 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 / 7525 (719) 524-2446.

After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Monday, November 09, 2009
Release Number: 09-138

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EACH hosts Premier Army Health Clinic grand opening

Nov. 9, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-138
Media Opportunity
Evans Army Community Hospital hosts Premier Army Health Clinic grand opening

Fort Carson, Colo. — Evans Army Community Hospital will host a ribbon-cutting, grand opening ceremony for Fort Carson's new off-post, Premier Army Health Clinic Tuesday at 2:30 p.m.

The new full-service health clinic is located at 3920 North Union Blvd. Suite 200, Colorado Springs, in the Premier Health Plaza located on the SW corner of Austin Bluffs Pkwy and North Union Blvd.

All are welcome to attend the ceremony that will include tours of the new medical facility, light refreshments, and media opportunities. Discover the latest and best health care available by and for our military community.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Evans Army Community Hospital Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7473 by 10 a.m. Tuesday.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525 or 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, November 05, 2009
Release Number: 09-137

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carson hosts Army vs. Air Force pep rally

Nov. 5, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-137
Media Opportunity
Carson hosts Army vs. Air Force pep rally

Fort Carson, Colo. — Fort Carson will host a pep rally and bonfire in support of the Army Black Knights football team Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. at Alternate Escapes on post.

Brig. Gen. Patrick Finnegan, United States Military Academy Dean, and Col. James F. Pasquarette, deputy commanding general 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, will speak at the rally. The USMA Army Cadet Spirit Band and the Rabble Rouser cheerleaders will perform during the event.

The Army Black Knights hail from the United States Military Academy at West Point. They meet the Air Force Academy Falcons on the field at Falcon Stadium the following day at 1:30 p.m.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 2 p.m. Nov. 6.

- 30 -

Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-135

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S. Academy admissions meetings for students

Nov. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-135

Public Service Announcement
U.S. Military Academy admissions meetings for students

Fort Carson, Colo. – An admissions information meeting for high school students interested in attending West Point and their parents will be held Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Denver Marriott South, 10345 Park Meadows Drive in Littleton.

The presentation is designed to help students learn more about the USMA, including admissions procedures, academic and athletic programs, cadet life and career opportunities after graduation.

For more information call 800-822-8762 or visit http://admissions.usma.edu.

- 30 -

Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-136

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts installation run

Nov. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-136
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Installation Run

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host an installation-wide run in honor of Veteran’s Day beginning at Founder’s Field and ending at Ironhorse Park at 6:30 a.m. Thursday.

The four-mile run, intended to build esprit d’ corps and boost Soldier morale, will be led by Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson commanding general and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Daily, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson command sergeant major.

Perkins will hold a special formation with the Mountain Post Soldiers in honor of veterans and servicemembers at the conclusion of the event at Ironhorse Park. The Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard, Ivy Division Band, 4th Inf. Div. Color Guard and a Salute Battery will also be present during the run.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Nov. 4.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 or (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 30, 2009
Release Number: 09-134

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

68th Combat Service Support Battalion hosts flag casing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Col. Edward M. Daly, commander of the 43rd Sustainment Brigade, and Command Sgt. Maj. Randy S. Varner will host a flag casing ceremony at Manhart Field Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. in preparation for deployment in support of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Soldiers from Headquarters Company will leave the Mountain Post for a 12-month deployment to Afghanistan, and Soldiers from the 60th Ordnance Company will leave for a 12-month deployment to Iraq.

The casing of the unit colors is a military tradition signifying the completion of operations at an assigned duty location prior to departing for a new mission.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office no later than 12 p.m., Nov. 2 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525 (719) 524-2446.

After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Thursday, October 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-133

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Inf. Div. & Ft. Carson commemorate grand opening of Ivy Div. band facility

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post command will host a ribbon cutting ceremony commemorating the grand opening of the new Ivy Division Band Facility at 11 a.m. Oct. 30.

Col. Jim Pasquarette, deputy commanding general-support, 4th Infantry Division; Col. Robert McLaughlin, Fort Carson Garrison Commander; Chief Warrant Officer Marvin Cardo, Ivy Division Band Director; and Lt. Col. Quay Jones of the Army Corp of Engineers will speak at the event.

The state of the art, environmentally friendly building relies on geo-thermal heating and uses natural lighting extensively.

Following the ceremony, the Ivy Division Band will host an open house featuring tours of the new band facility, a coining ceremony and performances from the Ivy Division Band performance groups.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 9 a.m., Oct. 30 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 / 7525 (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Monday, October 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-132

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Red Ribbon Week includes "mock"crash to raise awareness

October 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-132

Media Opportunity
Red Ribbon Week includes “mock” car crash to raise awareness

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will stage a “mock” car crash Wednesday at 10 a.m. in recognition of the 2009 Red Ribbon Week, “Drug Free is Key” campaign.

Red Ribbon Week is a national campaign that focuses on reducing the demand for alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. The week calls upon citizens to become aware of the drug problems in their communities and to show their support and commitment by wearing a Red Ribbon.

Red Ribbon week started in 1985 shortly after law enforcement officer Enrique "Kiki" Camarena was murdered in Guadalajara, Mexico attempting to stop drug traffickers.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Tuesday for meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours, please contact the Fort Carson Operations Center at
(719) 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-131

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carson community makes a difference

Oct. 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-131

Media Opportunity
Carson community makes a difference

Fort Carson, Colo. — Members of the Fort Carson community will come together on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. to spruce up key areas of the post’s Turkey Creek Recreation Area during Make a Difference Day.

Volunteers from the Mountain Post will join millions of other participants across the nation doing similar clean-up projects aimed at improving their neighborhoods.

Participants will be asked to perform general cleanup and beautification of the recreation facility to include landscaping, tree planting and trimming, fence repair, painting, raking and pathway and ditch repairs.

The event is scheduled from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Oct. 23.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-130

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carson community makes a difference

Oct. 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-130
Public Service Announcement
Carson community makes a difference

Volunteers from the Mountain Post will join millions of other participants across the nation doing similar clean-up projects aimed at improving their neighborhoods.

The event is scheduled from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Volunteers are asked to register for the event via e-mail at josesimo.bautista1@us.army.mil. Work boots or sturdy shoes and work gloves are required to participate. Volunteers must be 14 and older. Breakfast and lunch will be provided at the event.

Turkey Creek ranch is located 8 miles south of Fort Carson’s main gate on Highway 115.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Oct. 23.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-129

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson, surrounding communities sign Army Community Covenant

Oct. 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-129
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson, surrounding communities sign
Army Community Covenant

Fort Carson, Colo. — An Army Community Covenant resigning ceremony will be held at the El Pomar Penrose House Garden Pavilion Thursday at 3 p.m. to reaffirm the Army, Fort Carson and surrounding communities’ commitment to Soldiers and Families.

Several Army, Fort Carson and community leaders will participate in the ceremony including the Civilian Aide Emeritus to the Secretary of the Army; 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Commanding General, Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins; Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of El Pomar Foundation, William J. Hybl; Colorado Springs Mayor, Lionel Rivera; Pueblo County Commissioner, Anthony Nunez; and Pueblo City Manager, Scott Trainer.

The Community Covenant is an Army program designed to foster and sustain effective state and community partnerships with the Army to improve the quality of life for Soldiers and their Families, both at their current duty stations and as they transfer to other states. It is a formal commitment of support by state and local communities to Soldiers and Families of the Army – Active, Guard and Reserve.

Media interested in covering this event should contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by noon Oct. 22 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 or (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 16, 2009
Release Number: 09-128

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carson hosts Retiree Appreciation Day

Oct. 16, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-128
Media Opportunity
Carson hosts Retiree Appreciation Day

Fort Carson, Colo. — Fort Carson will host this year’s Retiree Appreciation Day for the military retiree community of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. on post.

Events will begin at McMahon Auditorium and speakers will include Fort Carson commander Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins and Evans Army Community Hospital commander Col. Jimmie O. Keenan.

Events will continue at the Special Events Center where medical, dental, legal and financial resources will be made available to participants. Seasonal flu shots will be part of the medical and dental screenings. Discounts will also be available at the Post Exchange and commissary.

Representatives from the Social Security Administration, Society of Military Widows, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, the American Legion and the Association of the United States Army will be among the many participants providing information to retirees.

Approximately 2,000 retirees and their spouses are expected to attend this year’s event which is scheduled from 7 a.m.-noon.

Media interested in covering this event should contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Oct. 16 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 or (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Release Number: 09-127

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Oct. 13, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-127
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Fort Carson, Colo. — A memorial service for six Fort Carson Soldiers, who were killed in action while serving in Afghanistan, is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers being memorialized are:
• 1st Lt. Tyler E. Parten (3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division)
• Staff Sgt. Randy M. Haney (4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Division)
• Sgt. David A. Davis (68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43rd Sustainment Brigade)
• Sgt. Youvert Loney (2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division)
• Pfc. Matthew E. Wildes (1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division)
• Pfc. William L. Meredith (569th Mobility Augmentation Company, 4th Engineer Battalion)

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 8 a.m., Oct. 14 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525 (719) 524-2446. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Release Number: 09-126

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post holds press conference

Oct. 7, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-126
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post holds press conference

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Department of Defense announced today the death of eight Soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 3 in Kamdesh, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their contingency outpost with small arms, rocket-propelled grenade and indirect fires. They were assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
A press conference is scheduled to address the deaths of these eight Soldiers at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Fort Carson’s Gate 1.
Maj. Daniel Chandler, rear detachment commander for the 4th BCT, 4th ID, and Mrs. Corey Weathers, a Family Readiness Group representative for the brigade will be available to answer questions concerning the impact of theses casualties and the support programs Fort Carson has in place to assist the Soldier’s Families.
Media wanting to attend this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 no later than 3 p.m. Wednesday.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, September 28, 2009
Release Number: 09-125

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Posts hosts Senior Leaders Suicide Prevention Forum

Sept. 28, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-125
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post hosts Senior Leaders Suicide Prevention Forum

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A Senior Leaders Suicide Prevention Forum will be held Sept. 29, at 9 a.m. at Fort Carson’s Elkhorn Catering and Conference Center.
The forum, hosted by Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson commanding general, will feature key note speaker Dr. Thomas Joiner, Ph.D., who is a distinguished Florida State University professor and author of “Why People Die by Suicide.”
The event will bring together Fort Carson leadership, senior installation medical and behavioral health professionals and regional topic experts. The goal of the forum is to help leaders recognize the signs exhibited by individuals considering suicide and the tragic and demoralizing effects that suicide leaves on family, friends and the community.
Members of the media will have an opportunity to speak with Dr. Joiner and Fort Carson medical subject matter experts following his remarks.
Media wishing to attend this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 no later than 4:30 p.m. Sept. 28.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, September 25, 2009
Release Number: 09-124

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Infantry Division Soldiers prepare for OIF

Sept. 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-124
Media Opportunity
4th Infantry Division Soldiers prepare for OIF

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division are conducting field training in preparation for their upcoming deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom next spring.
The media is invited to observe situational training exercises that will expose Soldiers and leaders to a number of scenarios that they will likely encounter in Iraq. Units will coordinate with role playing Iraqi Army soldiers as they conduct joint security operations in a simulated Iraqi town. The simulated town is occupied by role playing citizens and insurgents and has the capability to produce realistic sounds and smells and has the capacity to capture the movement of Soldiers through buildings.
Media interested in attending should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 524-2446 no later than 4:30 p.m., Sept. 23.
Note: This training is being conducted in a tactical field environment. Media representatives should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and dress for current weather conditions.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Release Number: 09-123

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Sept. 22, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-123
Media Opportunity

Fort Carson celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Fort Carson, Colo. — The Fort Carson Equal Opportunity office will host a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, at the Elkhorn Conference Center.

The theme for this years’ celebration is ‘Embracing the Fierce Urgency of Now.’ The lunch-time event will include a selection of Hispanic food samples and feature guest speaker Mr. Ray Aguilera, Pueblo City Council Member, District 4. He is the founder of the Pueblo Hispanic Education Foundation and recently received the Latino Chamber Development Foundation’s annual Latino Lifetime Achievement Award.

Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept.15 to Oct.15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Sept. 22.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at
526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, September 18, 2009
Release Number: 09-122

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson opens Rewind Theater

Sept. 18, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-122
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson opens Rewind Theater

Fort Carson, Colo. — The Fort Carson Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will celebrate the grand opening of the Rewind Theater at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, at McMahon Theater on post.

The grand opening event is free to Department of Defense identification card holders and will include hamburgers, hotdogs, popcorn, candy and soft drinks at no cost.

The Rewind Theater will show second-run movies, which means they are no longer in commercial theaters but not yet available on DVD.

Current plans are to show movies at the Rewind Theater only during weekend hours and at a minimal cost.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Sept. 18.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, September 17, 2009
Release Number: 09-121

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Fall Fiesta

Sept. 17, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-121
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Fall Fiesta

Fort Carson, Colo. — Fort Carson, Colo. - Fort Carson will host Fall Fiesta, a unique celebration of autumn and the Hispanic culture featuring music, food and family fun from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m Saturday at Ironhorse Park.

Events will include a car, truck and motorcycle show, a motorcycle stunt show, Hispanic food vendors, carnival games and a flea market/garage sale. Tobias Rene, the "King of New Mexico music", will also perform during the fiesta.

Admission to the event is free and open to the public. Public access to Ironhorse Park will be through Fort Carson's main gate located on the west side of post at Highway 115.

All visitors must present a federal or state issued photo identification card, vehicle registration, proof of insurance and be prepared for a vehicle search at the gate. In an effort to minimize traffic, visitors are highly encouraged to car pool.

No pets will be allowed at this event with the exception of service animals. Glass bottles and firearms are also prohibited.

For event information and to register your vehicle for the car, truck and motorcycle show, or to register for a space at the flea market/garage sale, call (719) 526-5366 or visit www.mwrfortcarson.com.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Sept. 18.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at
526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, September 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-120

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts 9/11 remembrance run

Sept. 10, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-120
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts 9/11 remembrance run

Fort Carson, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host an installation-wide September 11th remembrance run beginning at Founder’s Field and ending at Ironhorse Park, at 6:30 a.m. Friday.

The 4-mile run, intended to build esprit d’ corps and boost Soldier morale, will be led by Maj. Gen. David Perkins, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson commanding general and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Daily, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson command sergeant major.

Perkins will lead a remembrance of 9/11 at the conclusion of the event at Ironhorse Park. The 4th Inf. Div. Band, Color Guard and a Salute Battery will also be present during the run.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m. Sept. 10.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143 / 7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Release Number: 09-119

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

______________________________________________________________________________
Sept. 8, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-119
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for four Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, who were killed in action while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers who will be memorialized are:

— Sgt. Matthew L. Ingram
— Sgt. Jonathan M. Walls
— Pfc. Patrick S. Fitzgibbon
— Pfc. Richard K. Jones

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Media are reminded that no recording devices or photography are allowed in the chapel during the ceremony, but there will be opportunities outside to photograph the rifle salute and playing of Taps. Every effort will be made to provide a spokesperson who knew the Soldier for interviews.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Wednesday.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, September 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-117

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID

Sept. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-117
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 45 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Sept. 5 at 11 p.m.
This flight represents the last contingent of 2nd BCT, 4th ID Soldiers to redeploy to Fort Carson.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Sept. 3, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, August 28, 2009
Release Number: 09-116

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from Iraq deployment

Aug. 28, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-116
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from Iraq deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Approximately 275 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will uncase the brigade colors in conjunction with a welcome home ceremony in their honor at the post’s Special Events Center at 4 p.m. Friday.
Col. Butch Kievanaar, commander of the 2nd BCT, 4th ID, will uncase the brigade colors signifying its official return to the Mountain Post following a 12-month deployment.
A final group of approximately 330 Soldiers with the 2nd BCT, 4th ID is scheduled to return Saturday at 8 p.m.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 1 p.m. Friday, for the meeting time and location.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, August 27, 2009
Release Number: 09-115

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Army Combatives Tournament

Aug. 27, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-115
Media Advisory
Fort Carson Hosts Army Combatives Tournament

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 43rd Sustainment Brigade will host an Army Combatives Tournament on Friday, Aug. 26 at 4 p.m. the Garcia Gymnasium.

The Army Combatives Program blends several martial arts techniques into a combat focused training program. This program develops physical and mental endurance while teaching Soldiers battlefield survival skills.

First and second place finishers in six weight classes will represent Fort Carson in the All Army Combatives Tournament held at Fort Benning, Ga., September 17-21.

More than 100 Soldiers from across Fort Carson will participate in the tournament. Media is invited to observe championship rounds starting at 4:00 p.m. and the award presentation starting at 5:00 p.m.
Media wishing to cover this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 542-2446 by 11 a.m. Friday for meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-112

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carsn welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID

Aug. 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-112
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 980 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Aug. 27-29.
Three ceremonies are scheduled to honor the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 380 troops and will be held at 5:50 a.m., Aug. 27. The second ceremony is for approximately 270 troops and will be held at 6:25 p.m., Aug. 28. The third ceremony is for approximately 330 troops and will be held at 8 p.m., Aug. 29.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next week.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Aug. 26, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-113

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson prepares for possible epidemic

August 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-113
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson prepares for possible epidemic

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Mountain Post leaders and local

community members will meet Aug. 27 at 9:20 a.m. at the Fort Carson Elkhorn Conference Center to discuss community preparedness in the event of a possible future influenza epidemic.

Approximately 100 participants from Fort Carson and regional communities will participate in the table top exercise designed to help determine the best response to a possible influenza outbreak.

Functional area table groups will address a variety of issues in preparation for an actual epidemic or pandemic scenario including strengths and gaps in Fort Carson’s planned response, opportunities to enhance coordination between military installations and the Colorado Springs regional community and strategies for dealing with second and third order effects of an influenza pandemic.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., Aug 26.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-114

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson officials to discuss Mount Massive helicopter accident assistance

Aug. 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-114
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson officials participate in press conference to discuss Mount Massive helicopter accident assistance

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson and 4th Infantry Division officials in conjunction with Lake County Sheriffs Department Search and Rescue Squad, U.S. Forestry Service, Colorado Army National Guard and will hold a press conference at 10:30 a.m., Aug. 27 at the Lake County Gravel Pit.
Officials will discuss coordination efforts following the U.S. Army helicopter accident that occurred at Mount Massive Aug. 19.
To reach Lake County Gravel Pit from Denver take U.S. Highway 70 west to U.S. Highway 91 south to U.S. Highway 24 south through Leadville. Proceed west on U.S. Highway 300 until it intersects with County Rd. 11 and then turn left. The Lake County Gravel Pit is on the right side of the road approximately one half mile past Halfmoon Rd.
From Colorado Springs take Interstate Highway 25 North to U.S. Highway 24 west to Buena Vista. Continue on U.S. Highway 24 north until you reach U.S. Highway 300. Turn left on U.S. Highway 300; continue traveling west until it intersects with County Rd. 11 and then turn left. The Lake County Gravel Pit is on the right side of the road approximately one half mile past Halfmoon Rd.
Media interested in attending should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 524-2446 no later than 9 a.m.., Aug. 27.

- 30 -

Monday, August 24, 2009
Release Number: 09-110

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID, reservists

Aug. 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-110
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID, reservists

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 230 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and the 445th Civil Affairs Battalion, a California reserve unit, Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The ceremony will honor the return of these troops after their 12-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 10 a.m.., Aug. 25, for the meeting time and location.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 24, 2009
Release Number: 09-111

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Infantry Division welcomes two new Deputy Commanding Generals

Aug 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-111
Media Opportunity
4th Infantry Division welcomes two new Deputy Commanding Generals

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host a welcome ceremony in honor of two new 4th Infantry Division Deputy Commanding Generals, Col. Jeffery Bailey, Deputy Commanding General (Maneuvers) and Col. James Pasquarrette Deputy Commanding General (Support) at 4:45 p.m., Tuesday.

Deputy commanding generals assist the commanding general in fulfilling his command responsibilities by ensuring continuity of operations by maintaining a trained, ready and successful division.

Bailey’s recent assignments include Commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division and then service as the C3, Multinational Corps Iraq. As the Deputy Commanding General of Maneuvers, Bailey will be in charge of training and operations.

Pasquarrette’s most recent assignment was as executive officer to the Chief of Staff of the Army. As the Deputy Commanding General of Support Pasquarrette will be in charge of logistics, support services and supply.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525 or (719) 524-2446 by 2 p.m., Aug. 25.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, August 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-108

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

Aug. 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-108

Media Advisory
Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host the Run for the Fallen at 10 a.m., Aug. 23 at Ironhorse Park.

The Run for the Fallen honors the brave men and women who have fallen in battle while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Participants will wear runners’ bibs displaying names and ranks of fallen Soldiers and walk or run a 1-mile course.

Runners and walkers from across the nation will participate in similar events Aug. 22-23 to honor each Soldier, Sailor, Airmen or Marine who has made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Media wishing to cover this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 542-2446 by 4 p.m. Friday for meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, August 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-109

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from Iraq deployment

Aug. 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-109
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from Iraq deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 425 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and approximately 20 Soldiers from 43rd Sustainment Brigade following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Aug. 22 and Aug. 24.
Two ceremonies are scheduled to honor the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 220 troops and will be held at 9:50 p.m. Aug 22. The second ceremony is for approximately 225 troops and will be held at 9:50 a.m. Aug 24.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Aug. 21, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, August 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-107

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID, reservists

Aug. 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-107
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID, reservists

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 420 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and approximately 15 Soldiers from California’s reserve 445th Civil Affairs Battalion following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Aug. 21.
Two ceremonies are scheduled to honor the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 95 troops and will be held at 5:40 a.m. and will include Soldiers from the 445th CA Bn. The second ceremony is for approximately 340 troops and will be held at 9:15 p.m.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Aug. 20, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Release Number: 09-105

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson officials sign Army Family Covenant

Aug. 19, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-105
Media Advisory
Fort Carson officials sign Army Family Covenant

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host an Army Family Covenant signing ceremony, at 2 p.m. Thursday, at the Fort Carson Family Readiness Center.

Maj. Gen. David Perkins, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson commanding general, Col. Robert McLaughlin, Fort Carson garrison commander, and Fort Carson Family members will be on hand to officially sign the document that reaffirms the Army and the installation’s commitment to Fort Carson Families.
The Army Family Covenant, which was officially implemented Army-wide in October 2007, has committed $1.4 billion to programs designed to improve the quality of life for Army Families.
With its portion of those funds, Fort Carson has been able to open three new Family medicine clinics and three dental clinics, increase patient capacity at Evans Army Community Hospital, offer over 48,000 hours of free respite child care for Families of deployed Soldiers, offer free sports registration for children of deployed Soldiers serving over 800 youth, and develop a partnership with the Colorado Springs Department of Labor and Pikes Peak workforce to assist Family members in their job searches.
Media wishing to cover this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 542-2446 by 10 a.m. Thursday for meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Release Number: 09-106

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Run for the Fallen on Fort Carson open to the public

Aug. 19, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-106

Public Service Announcement
Run for the Fallen on Fort Carson open to the public

FORT CARSON, Colo. — In honor of the brave men and women who have fallen in battle in Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, Fort Carson will participate in the Run for the Fallen with a 1-mile walk at the post’s Iron Horse Park Aug. 23 beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Run for the Fallen is a run across America from Fort Irwin, Calif., to Arlington Cemetery in Virginia. Runners and walkers are encouraged to participate in this free event.

Individuals without a Department of Defense decal on their vehicles may enter the installation through Gate 1, at Nelson Boulevard and Highway 115. Drivers must present a valid, state-issued driver’s license, proof of insurance and registration. Passengers over age 18 must have a photo ID. Vehicles are subject to search.

For details about participation, call (719) 526-4494. Registration begins at 8 a.m., or register online at http://mwr.carson.army.mil and click on the Run for the Fallen icon.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Release Number: 09-104

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers from the 2nd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Aug. 18, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-104
Media Opportunity
Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID
welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 310 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Wednesday at 12:20 p.m.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 8 a.m., Wednesday, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 17, 2009
Release Number: 09-103

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Aug. 17, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-103
Media Opportunity
Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID
welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 575 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Tuesday.
Two ceremonies are scheduled to honor the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 375 troops and will be held at 4:20 p.m., and the second ceremony is for approximately 201 troops and will be held at 8:50 p.m.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 10 a.m., Tuesday, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, August 14, 2009
Release Number: 09-102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Aug. 14, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-102
Media Opportunity
Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 980 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 12-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Aug. 14, 15 and 16.
Three ceremonies are scheduled to honor the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 265 troops and will be held at 8 p.m. Aug. 14. The second ceremony is for approximately 35 troops and will be held at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 15. The third ceremony is for approximately 340 troops and will be held at 6:50 p.m. Aug. 16.
Soldiers of the “Warhorse” brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 2nd BCT is a mechanized infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 or (719) 524-2446 by 4 p.m., Aug. 14, for the meeting times and locations.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, August 13, 2009
Release Number: 09-101

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

Aug. 13, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-101
Media Opportunity
Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Approximately 150 Soldiers from Fort Carson’s 110th Military Police Company, 759th MP Battalion, will return to post following a 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. They will be honored in a ceremony at 8:30 a.m., Aug. 14 at the post’s Special Events Center.

Approximately 16 Soldiers with the 320th Psychological Operations Company are also returning from overseas duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and will be honored at the same ceremony. The 320th Psyops Company is a reserve unit from Oregon.

Media wishing to cover this homecoming should R.S.V.P. by 4:30 p.m., Aug. 13 with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 or 524-2446.

Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Release Number: 09-100

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

______________________________________________________________________________August 11, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-100
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for three 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers who were killed while serving in Afghanistan, is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers being memorialized are:
— Sgt. 1st Class Jason J. Fabrizi
— Spc. Gregory J. Missman
— Pvt. Steven T. Drees

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 10 a.m., Wednesday.

- 30 -

Monday, August 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-099

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts emergency preparedness exercise

Aug. 10, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-099
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts emergency preparedness exercise

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host exercise Mountain Responder at various locations on post, beginning Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Mountain Responder is designed to prepare and test the readiness of Fort Carson emergency services for a natural disaster. The exercise is based on a severe weather scenario that includes a tornado touchdown at housing areas on the Mountain Post.

Volunteer actors from the Fort Carson community will lend an air of realism to the emergency response exercise. Actors will have to be rescued, triaged and transported to nearby Evans Army Community Hospital.

Emergency services personnel from surrounding communities are also expected to participate in the exercise.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 10 a.m., Tuesday.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Fort Carson Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, August 06, 2009
Release Number: 09-098

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Grand opening ceremony for new dining facility held at airfield

August 6, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-098
Media Opportunity
Grand opening ceremony for new dining facility held at airfield

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A grand opening ceremony will be held in honor of a new dining facility at Butts Army Airfield at noon, Friday.

The new dining facility will serve approximately 500 Soldiers from the recently re-stationed 1st Battalion. 2nd Aviation Regiment, nicknamed the “Gunfighters”, as well as civilians and contractors working at the airfield.

According to 1st Lt. Sarah Spatzer, spokesperson for the regiment, the inaugural meal will include steak, shrimp, tempura fried fish and herbed baked chicken.

The DFAC is currently scheduled to serve breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday. Weekend hours may be added at a later date as required.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 9 a.m., Friday.

- 30 -

Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Release Number: 09-097

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Divisoin West (First Army) hosts relinquishment of command and color casing

August 4, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-097

Media Opportunity
Division West (First Army) hosts relinquishment of command and color casing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A relinquishment of command and color casing ceremony for Division West (First Army) will be held at Fort Carson’s Manhart Field at 10 a.m., Thursday.

During the ceremony Maj. Gen. Mark A. Graham will relinquish command of Division West (First Army) to Maj. Gen. Thomas D. Robinson, and the division will case its colors signifying its official move to Fort Hood, Texas.

Graham arrived at Fort Carson in 2007 and took command of Division West (First Army) and also served as commander of Fort Carson until July 2009. Graham will go on to serve as the Deputy Chief of Staff, G3, Operations and Training; G5, Military and Civilian Operations and Civil Affairs; and G7, Information Operations Officer of U.S. Forces Command located at Fort McPherson, Ga.

Maj. Gen. Thomas Robinson, who recently served as Deputy Commanding General, United States Army Reserve, First Army, will serve as the interim commanding general for Division West (First Army) until later this year when he will relinquish command to Maj. Gen. Charles C. Anderson at Fort Hood, Texas.

The multi-component Division West has seven brigades throughout the West and supports active and reserve component forces. It prepares and trains units and service members so they are ready to perform missions around the world. The new home of Division West is Fort Hood, Texas, where they will continue their training mission.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., Wednesday.

- 30 -

Monday, August 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-096

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Aug. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-096
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Fort Carson, Colo. — A memorial service for two 4th Engineer Battalion Soldiers, who were killed in Afghanistan when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device, is scheduled for 10 a.m., Aug. 4, at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers being memorialized are:
— Sgt. Joshua J. Rimer
— Spc. Randy L. J. Neff

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., Aug. 3 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-093

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army's Soldier Show open to public

July 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-093
Public Service Announcement
Army’s Soldier Show open to public

Fort Carson, Colo. —The 2009 Army Soldier Show is scheduled for Aug. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Pikes Peak Center.

Lights! Camera! Action! is the theme of this year’s show that features a cast and crew of active-duty Soldiers from duty stations around the world.

The show, which is “by Soldiers, for Soldiers,” is open to the general public. While there is no admission charge, tickets are required.

Free tickets are available from the Fort Carson Information, Tickets and Registration Office at the Outdoor Recreation Complex on Specker Avenue, the Colorado Springs World Arena box office or the Pikes Peak Center.

“The audience is going to have the rare experience of feeling and being in a live television studio, including commercial breaks,” said Soldier Show production director Victor Hurtado, who spent much of the past year working on TV productions, "Nashville Star,” “America’s Got Talent,” “Clash of the Choirs,” and country artist Michael Peterson’s “My Real Life — Strong For America Tour,” presented by the U.S. Army.

A lot of dance, rap, English rhythm and blues, visuals, patriotic tunes, movement, love of country — even a roller skater — graces the stage during the 90-minute production. Soldier-performers wear traditional attire from India during “Jai Ho,” a song from the Oscar-winning “Slumdog Millionaire.”

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-094

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

July 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-094
Media Opportunity
Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. —The Mountain Post community will welcome home 200 Soldiers with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony at 10:30 p.m., Thursday, at the post’s Special Events Center.

The 2nd Brigade Combat Team has been deployed for 12 months to Southern Iraq in support of Multi-National Division South.

Media wishing to cover this homecoming should R.S.V.P. by 4 p.m., Thursday, with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719)526-7525/4143.

Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-095

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Automobile crash simulated at Fort Carson

July 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-095
Media Opportunity
Automobile crash simulated at
Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers in the 1st Battalion (ATTACK) 2nd Aviation Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division will set up a mock automobile crash at 10 a.m., July 31, at the corner of Mister and Wetzel streets.

The mock crash will demonstrate an automobile crash caused by an intoxicated driver. The event is intended to educate Fort Carson Soldiers of the dangers of drinking and driving.

Fort Carson and Colorado Springs emergency personnel, including law enforcement, fire and ambulance service crews will participate in this demonstration to show observers how they would respond to an actual drinking and driving related vehicle incident.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., July 30.

- 30 -

Friday, July 24, 2009
Release Number: 09-091

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson DENTAC changes command

July 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-091
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson DENTAC changes command

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Dental Activity on Fort Carson will host a change of command ceremony at 1:30 p.m., July 27, at Manhart Field.

During the ceremony, Col. Craig C. Willard will relinquish command to Col. John W. Etzenbach after having served as DENTAC commander since August 2006.

Col. Etzenbach was most recently commander of the U.S. Army Dental Activity, Bavaria, located in Southern Germany. He is board certified in periodontology and has received the prestigious “A” designator from the Army surgeon general. Col. Etzenbach is also a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit and a fellow in the International College of Dentists.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 10 a.m., July 27.

- 30 -

Friday, July 24, 2009
Release Number: 09-092

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

July 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-092
Media Opportunity
Soldiers return to Mountain Post from Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. —The Mountain Post community will welcome home 14 Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony at 1 p.m., Saturday, at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 2nd Brigade Combat Team has been deployed to Southern Iraq in support of Multi-National Division South.
Media wishing to cover this homecoming should R.S.V.P. by 9 a.m., Saturday, with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143.
Note: Flight times are subject to change. In the event that flight times change you will be provided an updated front gate show time.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, July 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-090

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

43rd Sustainment Brigade food service team competes for Philip A. Connelly award

Jul 22, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-090

Media Opportunity
43rd Sustainment Brigade food service team competes for
Philip A. Connelly award

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The 43rd Sustainment Brigade food service team will compete in the 42nd annual Forces Command (FORSCOM) Philip A. Connelly Competition July 24, at 11:30 a.m. at Fort Carson.

The team will be judged by a group of evaluators who represent the FORSCOM G4, logistics support, from Fort McPherson, Ga. These evaluators travel around the world to judge Army teams selected by their commands as their best garrison and field dining facilities.

The Philip A. Connelly Award was established in 1968 by the Department of the Army and the International Food Service Executives Association to recognize outstanding Army food service operations on the job. The objectives of the program are to improve the professionalism of Army food service Soldiers and Civilians, provide recognition for demonstrated excellence in the preparation and serving of food, and provide an added incentive for continued improvement and education in Army food service operations through individual and unit recognition.

Media who would like to attend this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143, no later than 9 a.m., Friday, for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

-30-

Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-089

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Infantry Division hosts uncasing ceremony

__________________________________________________________________________________

July 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-089
Media Advisory
4th Infantry Division hosts uncasing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — An uncasing ceremony marking the final phase of the 4th Infantry Division’s arrival to Fort Carson will begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday, at Manhart Field.

During the ceremony Maj. Gen. David Perkins, commander of the 4th Inf. Div., will uncase the division colors, symbolizing the official arrival of the division to Fort Carson. The ceremony also signifies the transfer of senior command authority of Fort Carson from Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army), to Perkins. Thus Perkins will be the new commanding general of Fort Carson.

Highlights of the ceremony include an inspection of troops, remarks by Gen. Charles Campbell, commanding general of United States Army Forces Command, and Perkins. Campbell and Perkins will inspect the troop formation while the Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard leads the pass and review.

Following the uncasing ceremony Perkins, Erik Blechinger, deputy district engineer with the United States Army Corp of Engineers, and Allen Ross from PCL Construction will mark the official opening of the new 4th Inf. Div. headquarters building with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Bldg. 1435, 6105 Wetzel Rd.

Immediately after the ribbon cutting ceremony everyone is invited to participate in an open house at the new 4th Inf. Div. headquarters building. Guided tours will include the main conference room, joint operations center, and the command suite.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 5 p.m., July 21.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.
–30 –

Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Release Number: 09-088

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army releases Epidemiological (EPICON) Consultation study

__________________________________________________________________________________

July 14, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-088
Media Advisory
Army releases Epidemiological (EPICON) Consultation study

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Army will release the results of an Epidemiological Consultation (EPICON) study that examined a clustering of violent crimes since 2005 within units stationed at Fort Carson, Colo. The results of this study will also be discussed in the context of a larger ongoing review of violent crime throughout the Army.

WHAT: Press Conference discussing the results of the EPICON study with Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general; LTG Eric Schoomaker, the Army Surgeon General; and LTG Michael Rochelle, the Army G-1.
WHEN: Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at 10 a.m. MST
WHERE: Fort Carson, CO, Gate 1 by Kit Carson Statue
DETAILS: A podium will be provided for microphones. There will be an opening statement then the generals will take questions.
CONTACT: Brandy Gill, brandy.gill1@conus.army.mil 719-526-7527 to RSVP no later than
4 p.m. MST today.

WHAT: Telephonic Media Roundtable discussing the results of the EPICON study with LTG Eric Schoomaker, Commander, US Army Medical Command and Army Surgeon General; LTG Michael Rochelle, the Army G-1; and MG Mark Graham, the Commanding General of Fort Carson, Colo.
WHEN: Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at 2:30 p.m. Washington D.C. local time
WHERE: A central line with speakerphone will be provided in the Army Public Affairs Conference Room, 1E462, for any reporters within the Pentagon who wish to attend. For reporters outside the Pentagon, 10 additional lines will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
DETAILS: The three speakers will call into the phone bridge at approximately 2:30 p.m. EDT.
CONTACT: Lt. Col. Chris Garver, Christopher.garver@us.army.mil, 703-697-2564, to request a line.

Media who would like to attend the press conference should RSVP with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., July 14.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.
–30 –

Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Release Number: 09-085

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion hosts uncasing ceremony

July 8, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-085
Media Opportunity
4th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion hosts uncasing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Commanders and Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division’s Special Troops Battalion will host a flag uncasing ceremony at 10 a.m., July 9 at the DSTB Headquarters, Building 1445, across from the Division Headquarters.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new battalion headquarters is planned immediately following the uncasing ceremony.

The flag uncasing ceremony signifies the battalion’s official arrival at Fort Carson and readiness to perform its mission.

The 4th Inf. Div. Special Troops Bn. spent the past 14 years at Fort Hood, Texas, before re-stationing at the Mountain Post with the Division Headquarters and four brigade combat teams.

The DSTB's newest commander, Lt. Col. Matthew Tedesco, will lead the battalion which recently located more than 1,000 Soldiers to Fort Carson, Colo., to support the “Ivy” Division Headquarters in its ongoing mission to remain combat ready.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., July 8.

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Release Number: 09-086

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UPDATE: 4th ID Special Troops Battalion uncasing ceremony time change

July 8, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-086
Media Opportunity
UPDATE
4th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion hosts uncasing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Commanders and Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division’s Special Troops Battalion will host a flag uncasing ceremony at noon, July 9 at the DSTB Headquarters, Building 1445, across from the Division Headquarters.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new battalion headquarters is planned immediately following the uncasing ceremony.

The flag uncasing ceremony signifies the battalion’s official arrival at Fort Carson and readiness to perform its mission.

The 4th Inf. Div. Special Troops Bn. spent the past 14 years at Fort Hood, Texas, before re-stationing at the Mountain Post with the Division Headquarters and four brigade combat teams.

Please note: The time of this event has been changed from 10 a.m. to noon. Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., July 8.

- 30 -

Monday, June 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-083

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson celebrates 4th a day early, invites surrounding communities

June 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-083
Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson celebrates 4th a day early, invites surrounding communities

Fort Carson, Colo. — Fort Carson will open its gates to members of the Colorado Springs community for “Rocking in the Rockies,” a free Independence Day celebration, to be held at Ironhorse Park, July 3 from 4-10 p.m.

Participants can enjoy a variety of family-oriented activities to include big air jumpers for children, food vendors and musical entertainment from Ricky and the Radios and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic Orchestra. The evening will end with a fireworks display set to music provided by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
Visitors who do not have a military registration decal on their vehicles are asked to use gates 1, 4 and 20 beginning at 4 p.m. July 3. Gate 1 is Fort Carson’s main gate and is located just off of State Highway 115. Gate 4, also referred to as the B Street gate, is accessible from South Academy Boulevard. Gate 20 is the closest access gate to the city of Fountain and is accessible from nearby Highway 85/87 and Interstate Highway 25.

Visitors will be directed to a parking area and ride a shuttle bus to Ironhorse Park.

No pets will be allowed at this event with the exception of service animals. Glass bottles and firearms are prohibited.

- 30 -

Friday, June 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-082

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson opens Disability Evaluation System Administration Center

June 25, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-082
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Disability Evaluation System and Administration Center grand opening

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post and Evans Army Community Hospital will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony in honor of the establishment of Fort Carson’s new DoD/VA Disability Evaluation System and grand opening of the Medical Evaluation Board center at 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 29.

Fort Carson is one of 18 nation-wide DoD/VA DES pilot sites. DES simplifies and restructures how service members are evaluated for continued military service and qualify for benefits as a result of wounds, illnesses, or injuries.

The program eliminates duplicative DoD and VA practices; it shortens the disability claims process by engaging the VA as soon as a service member is referred for possible disability evaluation; and it integrates new case management features to ensure a smooth transition for Soldiers who are leaving active duty and utilizing VA healthcare.

The grand opening ceremony will include media opportunities and tours of the new facility.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Evans Army Hospital Public Affairs Office at 719-526-7473 by 4 p.m., Friday, June 26 for the meeting time and location.

-30-

Friday, June 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-083

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts U.S. Army garrison change of command ceremony

June 25, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-083
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts U.S. Army garrison change of command ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host a change of command ceremony welcoming a new Fort Carson garrison commander at 10 a.m., June 30 at Manhart Field.

During the ceremony Col. Eugene Smith will relinquish command to Col. Robert McLaughlin after serving as the Fort Carson garrison commander since July 2006.

While serving as the garrison commander, Smith has overseen the installation’s largest population growth since it was founded in 1942. He has also supervised the dramatic increase in the post’s infrastructure as it prepared for the relocation of the 4th Infantry Division to Fort Carson. His next assignment will take him to Fort Shafter, Hawaii, where he will serve as the deputy of Installation Management Command Pacific Region.

McLaughlin comes to Fort Carson from Carlisle Barracks, Penn., where he graduated from the Army War College with the class of 2009. Prior to that, he served as a field artillery battalion commander with the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Bliss, Texas.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 5 p.m., June 29.

- 30 -

Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-079

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th Infantry Division hosts meeting with Colorado Springs' Islamic leaders

June 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-079
Media Advisory
4th Infantry Division hosts meeting with Colorado Springs’ Islamic Leaders

FORT CARSON, Colo. --Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division, will host a meeting with Colorado Springs' Islamic leaders at 9:30 a.m., June 25 at the division headquarters at Fort Carson.

Immediately following the meeting Hammond and Colorado Springs masjed (mosque) leaders, Mr. Arshad Yousufi and Mr. Farouk Abushaban, will make remarks and answer media questions.

The 4th Inf. Div. leadership met with Central Texas Islamic leaders over the past two years to foster dialogue, interaction and understanding between the two segments of the community. 4th Inf. Div. leaders will continue to promote good-neighbor relationships with the Muslim communities near Fort Carson as well.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143 no later than noon June 24 for the meeting time and location.

-30-

Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-081

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1st BCT 4th ID hosts uncasing ceremony

June 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-081
Media Opportunity
1st BCT 4ID hosts uncasing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Commanders and Soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will host a flag uncasing at 9 a.m., June 25 at their new brigade headquarters building.

A flag uncasing ceremony signifies the brigade’s official arrival at Fort Carson and readiness to perform its mission. The 1st BCT Raiders spent the past 13 years at Fort Hood, Texas, before re-stationing at the Mountain Post with three other 4th ID brigades.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new brigade headquarters is planned immediately following the uncasing ceremony. During the ceremony, the Army Corps of Engineers, along with civilian contractors, will present an award to the brigade honoring the building’s energy efficiency and environmentally friendly architecture.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143 by 4 p.m., June 24.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours, please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, June 22, 2009
Release Number: 09-077

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes 259th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Soldiers home

June 19, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-077
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post welcomes 259th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Soldiers home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home approximately 75 Soldiers from the 259th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion who were deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony June 21 at 7 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 259th CSSB, which is an Army Reserve battalion from Denver, spent the last year at a Balad joint Air Base providing logistical support services including mission control, contracting and Morale Welfare and Recreation support; and vehicle, equipment and personnel transportation.
Soldiers from the 259th hail from several states including Colorado, Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Hawaii.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. June 19 for the meeting time and location. Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Adjustments to ceremony times will be sent via e-mail.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, June 22, 2009
Release Number: 09-078

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson celebrates 4th a day early, invites surrounding communities

June 22, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-078
Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson celebrates 4th a day early, invites surrounding communities

Participants can enjoy a variety of family-oriented activities to include big air jumpers for children, food vendors and musical entertainment from Ricky and the Radios and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic Orchestra. The evening will end with a fireworks display set to music provided by the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.

Visitors who do not have a military registration decal on their vehicles are asked to use gates 1, 4 and 20 beginning at 4 p.m. July 3. Gate 1 is Fort Carson’s main gate and is located just off of State Highway 115. Gate 4, also referred to as the B Street gate, is accessible from South Academy Boulevard. Gate 20 is the closest access gate to the city of Fountain and is accessible from nearby Highway 85/87 and Interstate Highway 25.

Visitors will be directed to a parking area and ride a shuttle bus to Ironhorse Park.

No pets will be allowed at this event with the exception of service animals. Glass bottles and firearms are prohibited.

- 30 -

Friday, May 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-069

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Soldier killed in motorcycle accident

May 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-069
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson Soldier killed in motorcycle accident

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A Special Forces Soldier assigned to the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) died as a result of a motorcycle accident May 28.

Sgt. 1st Class Justin Alfred Petersen was assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group. The accident is under investigation by the Colorado State Police and the Colorado Springs Police Department.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Release Number: 09-068

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration

______________________________________________________________________________
May 27, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-068

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts an Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration

Fort Carson, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host an Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Celebration May 28, at 11 a.m., at Fort Carson’s Iron Horse Park.

The celebration will highlight the diverse cultures and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the Army and the Colorado Springs community.

The event will feature comedian Ron McGehee who has headlined at many venues including the World Famous Improvs and the Comedy Store. He has also appeared on Funny Farm TV, the Joni Lamb Show on Day Star, JCTV, NBC, ABC Family, Si TV, Comedy Central, TBN and TLN.

The Pacific Pride and Island Hearts Dance Company will also perform their Taste of Hawaii dance presentation. Their mission is to teach students the basic art of Polynesian dance, build self confidence, respect, integrity, and an appreciation of life through participation in community services, fundraisers and charity functions.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at 719-526-7525/4143 by 9 a.m., May 28 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/9849. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-067

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts U.S. Army Medical Activity Change of Command Ceremony

__________________________________________________________________________________
May 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-067

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts U.S. Army Medical Activity Change of Command Ceremony

Fort Carson, Colo. — Brig. Gen. James K. Gilman, Commanding General, Great Plains Regional Medical Command and Brooke Army Medical Center will preside over the U.S. Army Medical Activity Change of Command Ceremony at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, at Evans Army Community Hospital's West Lawn.

Col. Kelly A. Wolgast has commanded the medical activity and hospital since June 2007. She was instrumental in establishing Fort Carson’s Warrior Transition Battalion and orchestrated the medical activity’s post-wide capital improvements.

Col. Jimmie O. Keenan will take command after having served as the Chief of Staff, U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command, Arlington, Va.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Evans Army Hospital Public Affairs Office at 719-526-7473 by 3 p.m., May 27 for the meeting time and location.

For more information do not contact the military police desk, but contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525/9849. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, May 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-066

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carso Soldier missing

__________________________________________________________________________________
May 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-066

News Release
Fort Carson Soldier missing

Fort Carson, Colo. — A 28-year-old Fort Carson Soldier has been missing since Tuesday.

Pfc. Roy Mason II, assigned to the Warrior Transition Unit, did not report to Tuesday morning’s accountability formation and is listed as absent without leave.

A BOLO (be on the lookout) was put out Tuesday for Mason and a car he rented from Enterprise. The car is a 2008 red Chevy Cobalt, license plate number CO 253SOX. The Soldier is 6 feet tall, weighs 195 pounds and has brown eyes and hair.

There is potential that the Soldier is in possession of a firearm, however there is no indication that he is a threat to the general public.

Maj. Gen. Mark A. Graham, commanding general, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson, said, “Please assist us in locating Pfc. Mason and bringing him back safely to his unit, friends and Family. We are very concerned about this Soldier and my heart goes out to his Family and friends who are right now wondering where he is.”

Anyone with information on his whereabouts or who may have spotted him is encouraged to call the Fort Carson Military Police at 526-2333.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Release Number: 09-065

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers remembered at Global War on Terrorism Memorial Ceremony

__________________________________________________________________________________
May 19, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-065

News Release
Soldiers to be Remembered at
Global War on Terrorism
Memorial Ceremony

Fort Carson, Colo. — The names of 15 Soldiers who lost their lives fighting the Global War on Terror will be added to the memorial located in Kit Carson Park May 21 at 10 a.m.

Maj. Gen. Mark A. Graham, Commanding General Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson, will be the keynote speaker. Family members of those being honored have been invited to attend.

Annually Fort Carson commemorates those Soldiers from the Mountain Post who have lost their lives fighting the Global War on Terrorism.

Attendees can come to Fort Carson's main gate on Colorado Highway 115, south of Academy Boulevard. From there, attendees will be directed to parking that will not require access to Fort Carson. The main gate will close 15 minutes prior to the event, reopening after the event.

No access will be provided to media who arrive after the gate is closed. Media must arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. to ensure that they have adequate time to set up prior to the start of the ceremony.

Interested media should RSVP with Fort Carson Public Affairs by noon, May 20.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-7525/9849. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.
- 30 -

Monday, May 18, 2009
Release Number: 09-063

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

______________________________________________________________________________
May 15, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-063

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for five 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers, who were killed in Iraq when their vehicle struck a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, is scheduled for 1 p.m. May 19 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers being memorialized are:
— Sgt. 1st Class Bryan E. Hall
— Staff Sgt. Gary L. Woods, Jr.
— Sgt. Edward W. Forrest, Jr.
— Cpl. Jason G. Pautsch
— Pfc. Bryce E. Gautier

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Media are reminded that no recording devices or photography are allowed in the chapel during the ceremony but there will be opportunities outside to photograph the rifle salute and playing of Taps. Every effort will be made to provide a spokesperson who knew the Soldier for interviews.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m., May 19 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, May 18, 2009
Release Number: 09064

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division Welcomes New Commander

__________________________________________________________________________________

May 18, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-064
Media Release
3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division
Welcomes New Commander

Fort Carson, Colo. — A change of command ceremony welcoming Col. James E. Rainey to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will be held at 11 a.m., May 19, at Manhart Field.

Col. Rainey’s most recent assignment was as the 4th Infantry Division Operations Officer (G-3).

Col. John Hort will be continuing his military career as a student at the U.S Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, Pa.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 9 a.m. May 19 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/1264. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, May 15, 2009
Release Number: 09-062

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Warrior Recovery Center Grand Opening

May 15, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-062
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Warrior Recovery Center Grand Opening

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post and Evans Army Community Hospital will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony in honor of the grand opening of Fort Carson’s new Warrior Recovery Center at 1 p.m., May 18.
The center will provide treatment to patients recovering from concussions and specifically provide services to wounded warriors returning from deployments.
The grand opening ceremony will include tours of the new facility, light refreshments, and media opportunities.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Evans Army Hospital Public Affairs Office at 719-526-7473 by 10 a.m., May 18 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Release Number: 09-061

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony and Luncheon

May 12, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-061
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony and Luncheon

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will honor approximately 200 volunteers for their service at the annual Fort Carson Army Volunteer Corps awards ceremony and luncheon at noon May 13 at the Elkhorn Catering and Conference Center.
Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general, and Mrs. Graham, will be on hand to honor the award recipients.
Awards that will be given include certificates of appreciation, Fort Carson Columbine award of excellence, exemplary volunteer service, volunteer of the year, youth volunteer of the year, III Corps helping hand award, FORSCOM commanding general’s certificate of appreciation, Kit Carson volunteer service award, and the military outstanding volunteer service medal.
Media wishing to cover this event should R.S.V.P. by 10 a.m., May 13 with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-7525/4143.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, May 11, 2009
Release Number: 09-060

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return to Mountain Post after 15-month deployment

May 11, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-060
Media Opportunity
Soldiers return to Mountain Post after 15-month deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. —The Mountain Post will welcome home 20 Soldiers from the 152nd Movement Control Team following their deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom at 11 a.m., May 11 at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 152nd MCT mission was to track the movement of personnel, passengers, cargo and rotary winged aircraft equipment into and out of Afghanistan during its 15-month deployment.
Media wishing to cover this homecoming should R.S.V.P. by 10 a.m., May 11 with the 43rd Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 375-9415. The ceremony time may shift slightly depending on the actual arrival time of the flight. Media will be made aware of any changes.

- 30 -

Thursday, May 07, 2009
Release Number: 09-057

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10th SFG conducts awards ceremony

May 7, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-057

Media Opportunity
10th SFG conducts awards ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – One Soldier will receive the Distinguished Service Cross and two Soldiers will receive the Silver Star at a ceremony May 14 at 2 p.m. at Fort Carson’s Special Events Center.
Staff Sgt. Jarion Halbisengibbs, a native of Fremont, Ohio, assigned to 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), will receive the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action on Sept. 10, 2007, while serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Halbisengibbs was the detachment weapons sergeant, Operational Detachment Alpha 083, in Samara, Iraq, at that time.
Capt. Matthew A. Chaney, a native of Peoria, Ill., assigned to 3rd Bn, 10th SFG (A), will receive the Silver Star for gallantry in action on Sept. 10, 2007. Chaney served as detachment commander, Operation Detachment Alpha 083, in Samara, Iraq, at that time.
Sgt. 1st Class Michael D. Lindsay, a native of Cora Peak, N.C., assigned to 3rd Bn, 10th SFG (A), will receive the Silver Star for gallantry in action on Sept. 10, 2007, in Samara, Iraq. Lindsay served as detachment communications sergeant.
Media interested in attending this event or in conducting pre-ceremony interviews should contact the 10th SFG (A) Public Affairs Office at (719) 524-1220 or by e-mail at owenk@ahqb.soc.mil or nogglem@ahqb.soc.mil.
For attendance at the event, please R.S.V.P. no later than noon May 13. To schedule an interview with the award recipients, please R.S.V.P. no later than noon May 8. Interviews will be conducted May 11-13, by appointment only; no interviews will be granted the day of the ceremony.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, May 07, 2009
Release Number: 09-058

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Department of Defense Wildfire Academy hosts prescribed burn demonstration

May 7, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-058
Press Release
Department of Defense Wildfire Academy hosts prescribed burn demonstration

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post in conjunction with Cheyenne Mountain Fire Department and several other local firefighting agencies will participate in a fire fighter field day and prescribed burn demonstration May 8 at 11:00 a.m.
The fire fighter field day and prescribed burn demonstration are the culmination of the week-long course designed to improve inter-agency cooperation and ultimately enable emergency responders to train, work and respond together in any scenario.
Students from approximately 15 agencies are participating at the wildfire academy in courses like basic and advanced fire fighting, chain saw operations, land navigation and logistics and incident command support.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 9 a.m. May 8.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, May 07, 2009
Release Number: 09-059

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts open house May 9

May 7, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-059

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts open house May 9

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fort Carson will host an open house at Butts Army Airfield for the entire Front Range community May 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The purpose of the open house is to enable residents to tour the post, view military equipment and ask questions about the Mountain Post’s activities.
Events include an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. with keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general; windshield tours of the installation; a training simulator tour which includes the medical skills training center and a Humvee roll-over trainer; and live entertainment provided by the Air Force Academy Band —Blue Steel, and the Kory Brunson Band.
Blue Steel is the Air Force’s premier commercial popular music ensemble featuring seven elite musicians playing high-energy music from a variety of genres. The Kory Brunson Band is a Denver-based country and Southern rock group who have headlined their own shows and opened for Brad Paisley, Sugarland and Lynard Skynard.
Spectators can also see Soldiers of the 10th Special Forces Group parachute into the event from a C-23 Sherpa, a small transport aircraft.
Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. May 8.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Release Number: 09-056

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chief of Staff of the Army visits Fort Carson

__________________________________________________________________________________

May 6, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-056

Chief of Staff of the Army visits
Fort Carson
FORT CARSON, Colo. – Chief of Staff of the Army, General George W. Casey, Jr., will host a press conference with Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general at Fort Carson May 7 at 3:20 p.m.
Gen. Casey will discuss his plans to rebalance the force, reduce the stresses and strains on Soldiers and Families and increase time at home for Soldiers. He will also discuss his plans to raise mental health fitness to the same level as physical fitness.
While at Fort Carson Gen. Casey will visit with Soldiers and Families to discuss issues affecting them and learn more about innovative Fort Carson programs.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than noon May 7.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Release Number: 09-054

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

759th MP Bn holds casing ceremony

May 5, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-054

Media Opportunity
759th MP Bn holds casing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The 759th Military Police Battalion will officially case its colors in a ceremony at 2 p.m. May 6 at Fort Carson’s Manhart Field.
The casing of the units’ colors symbolizes its readiness to deploy. The 759th MP Bn will be deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
A unit’s colors are unique to that unit and stem from ancient Roman times when flags were used for battlefield identification, and served as a way for commanders to know if their troops were ready for battle.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719)526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. May 5.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Release Number: 09-055

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts special speaker USMC Sgt. Andrew Brandi

___________________________________________________________________________

May 5, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-055

Fort Carson hosts special speaker USMC
Sgt. Andrew Brandi

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will welcome former United States Marine Corps Sgt. Andrew Brandi, a nationally known motivational speaker and author, May 7 at 9 a.m. at McMahon Theater.

Brandi, who is a Vietnam veteran, will provide a unique, one-hour presentation to Soldiers, veterans, Family members and care providers about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and suicide.

During his presentations, Brandi covers suicide and homicide guilt; general guilt or regret issues; survivor guilt; loss of true friends; controlling rage; desire to continue killing; trust and determining who the enemy is now; the primal/savage side of our nature; family issues with spouses, parents and children; the need for combat adrenaline; returning from war as a changed person; establishing goals for the future; and methods of dealing with stress and identifying trauma.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. May 6.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, May 04, 2009
Release Number: 09-053

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Secretary of the Army visits Fort Carson

__________________________________________________________________________________

May 4, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-053

Secretary of the Army visits Fort Carson
News conference with Maj. Gen. Graham,

others at 3 p.m. May 5

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Secretary of the Army Pete Geren will host a press conference with Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general at Fort Carson May 5 at 3 p.m. to discuss Army 101 and the Warrior Family Community Partnership, two innovative Fort Carson programs.
Don Addy and Terrence McWilliams will speak about the Warrior Family Community Partnership and Phil Martinez will speak about Army 101. Addy is President of the National Homeland Defense Foundation and a member of the Board of Directors. Addy also co-founded The Citizen Soldier Connection, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving Fort Carson Soldiers and Families by connecting them with local citizens. McWilliams is the Director of Military Support for El Pomar Foundation, where he oversees community outreach activities. Martinez is the Fort Carson USO Center and Program Manager and an Army 101 graduate.
Army 101 is an introduction to the Army and Fort Carson and serves as a venue for teaching community leaders, first responders and interested citizens about what Fort Carson is and does and the unique aspects of Army culture.

The Warrior Family Community Partnership is an integrated, multi-faceted partnership to leverage services and support to provide first-class quality of life for Army leaders, Soldiers and Families.
An opportunity for media to shoot b-roll and take pictures of the Secretary of the Army as he participates in a reenlistment ceremony will be available before the press conference.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than noon May 5.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, May 01, 2009
Release Number: 09-052

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson invites community to visit during open house May 9

May 1, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-052

Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson invites community to visit during open house May 9

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fort Carson will host an open house at Butts Army Airfield for the entire Front Range community May 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The purpose of the open house is to enable residents to tour the post, view military equipment and ask questions about the Mountain Post’s activities.
Events include an opening ceremony with keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general; windshield tours of the installation; a training simulator tour which includes the medical skills training center and a Humvee roll-over trainer; and live entertainment provided by the Air Force Academy Band —Blue Steel, and the Kory Brunson Band.
Blue Steel is the Air Force’s premier commercial popular music ensemble featuring seven elite musicians playing high-energy music from a variety of genres. The Kory Brunson Band is a Denver-based country and Southern rock group who have headlined their own shows and opened for Brad Paisley, Sugarland and Lynard Skynard.
Spectators can also see Soldiers of the 10th Special Forces Group parachute into the event from a C-23 Sherpa, a small transport aircraft.
To attend the open house, access to the installation can be gained at Gate 6, located off of Highway 115. Gate 6 is 3.5 miles south of Fort Carson’s Gate 1 (Highway 115 at Nelson Boulevard). Visitors need to present a valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID for passengers, valid registration and proof of insurance.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Release Number: 09-051

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th BCT, 4th ID cases its colors

April 29, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-051

Media Opportunity
4th BCT, 4th ID cases its colors

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will officially case its colors in a ceremony at 10 a.m. May 1 at Fort Carson’s Manhart Field.
The casing of the “Warrior” colors symbolizes the unit’s readiness to deploy. The “Warrior Brigade” will be deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
A unit’s colors are unique to that unit and stem from ancient Roman times when flags were used for battlefield identification, and served as a way for commanders to know if their troops were ready for battle.
The Warrior colors stand for the past, present and future efforts of the unit and its Soldiers.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719)526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. April 30.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, April 27, 2009
Release Number: 09-048

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Days of Remembrance Observance Luncheon

__________________________________________________________________________________

April 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-048

Press Release
Fort Carson hosts Days of Remembrance Observance Luncheon

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post will host a Days of Remembrance Observance Luncheon in honor of World War II Holocaust survivors April 28 at 11:20 a.m. at the Elkhorn Conference Center.
The event will feature guest speaker David Bram, a candlelight ceremony, a dance selection by Synergy Dance Company, and a presentation by Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Fort Carson’s commanding general.
Bram is a Colorado Springs resident and businessman who spent 5 years in a German Nazi prison camp during World War II. He was 13 years old when he was taken from his family and put to work in a labor camp. He never saw his parents, grandparents, or five siblings again. He was moved to several labor and prison camps before being liberated by the U.S. Army on May 5, 1945.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. April 27 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, April 27, 2009
Release Number: 09-049

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes home 396th MP Detachment

April 27, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-049

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes home 396th MP Detachment

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post community will welcome home 12 Soldiers from the 396th Military Police Detachment following their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony April 27 at 4 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 396th MP Det is an Army Reserve unit based in Denver. While deployed, the unit provided personal security to high-ranking officers.
Media wishing to cover this homecoming should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719)526-4143/7525 no later than noon April 27.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, April 27, 2009
Release Number: 09-050

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ground breaking, open house held for A/DACG

April 27, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-050

Media Opportunity
Ground breaking, open house held for arrival-departure aircraft control group facility

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fort Carson officials will host a ground-breaking ceremony and open house for the post’s arrival-departure aircraft control group (A/DACG) facility April 28 at 2 p.m. The A/DACG is located south and west of Colorado Springs Airport off Milton Proby Parkway/Air Cargo Road.
The A/DACG complex provides Fort Carson a secure location with direct access to the primary runway from an aircraft parking apron. The complex permits safe, day or night rapid staging, processing and deployment capability for more than 1,200 Soldiers and their equipment.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719)526-4143/7525 no later than 10 a.m. April 28.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Release Number: 09-047

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson MP company honored as best in the Army

April 22, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-047

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson MP company honored as best in the Army

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fort Carson’s 59th Military Police Company will be awarded the Forces Command Eagle Award and the Brig. Gen. J.P. Holland Award for the best Military Police Company in the Army for 2008. A ceremony will be held April 23 at 9 a.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The Brig. Gen. J.P. Holland award (a trophy and a letter) was established to promote esprit de corps and to recognize the MP unit which displayed excellence. The award is based on total unit accomplishments, encompassing every activity bearing directly on mission accomplishment. The first award was presented in 1970.
Media interested in covering the awards ceremony should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 338-0506 by 8 a.m. April 23.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-046

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Earth Day events

April 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-046

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Earth Day events

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Continuing its long history of teaching environmental stewardship to future leaders, Fort Caron will host its 21st year of activities around Earth Day, celebrated nationally April 22. The theme for this year’s Army celebration of Earth Day is “Sustain the Future.”
Earth Day events planned for Fountain-Fort Carson District 8 Schools April 20-24 will focus on educating students on practices to sustain resources for the future. Fort Carson activities scheduled for Earth Day are accomplished through partnering with various local, state and federal organizations that help provide a broad, multi-faceted curriculum.
Fountain-Fort Carson school activities include:
• A recycled grocery bag drawing contest for grades K-8. Artwork is to depict the Earth Day theme. Complete grocery bag entries will be turned in to the Fort Carson Commissary for use at the conclusion of Earth Day activities.
• A poetry contest open to all grades, using the theme of “Sustain the Future.”
• An Earth/Arbor Day reading program at Fort Carson schools featuring volunteers reading “The Lorax,” an environmentally-themed children’s book by Dr. Seuss, April 20 and 21.
• Students from Carson Middle School will conduct a rehabilitation project at the wetland south of the school April 22, removing debris and noxious weeds.
• An Earth/Arbor Day educational fair at Carson Middle School April 23-24, featuring five educational stations.
• Students will also plant trees and shrubs during April and May, supporting Fort Carson’s “Tree City USA” certification, now in its 22nd year.
More than 2,000 students from Fort Carson schools and schools near Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site are expected to participate in Earth Day events this year, representing one of the Mountain Post’s most visible and longstanding community outreach and partnership efforts.
Media interested in covering the education fair April 24 should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 by 4 p.m. April 23.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Thursday, April 16, 2009
Release Number: 09-045

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Training Area 25 fire area rehabilitated

April 16, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-045

Press Release
Training Area 25 fire area rehabilitated

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The area that burned during the TA-25 Fire, which occurred in April 2008 on Fort Carson and consumed approximately 9,000 acres, has been “rehabilitated” to again support the training mission.
Teams of specialists inventoried the impact to resources within the burn area for erosion/sediment, forestry, invasive plants and cultural needs. Native vegetation, with the exception of some forested areas, is recovering normally and cultural resource work has been completed in the area.
Nearly 9,000 tree seedlings were planted in 2008 and another 10,000 will be planted before the end of 2009. About 4,000 acres were aerially seeded and another 20 acres of steep slopes south of Turkey Creek Recreational Area were hand seeded and hydro-mulched to hold the soil in place while seeds established. Crews constructed 14 erosion-control structures to capture ash and sediment to prevent it from impacting wetlands, drainages and a portion of Highway 115.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Release Number: 09-044

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10th SFG conducts valorous awards ceremony

April 14, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-044

Media Opportunity
10th SFG conducts valorous awards ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fifteen Soldiers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) will receive valorous awards at Manhart Field April 15 at 10:45 a.m.
Seven Soldiers will receive the Bronze Star medal with “V” device and eight will receive the Army Commendation medal with “V” device for their gallantry in action while engaged with the enemy during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Three Soldiers will receive awards for valorous conduct in Mir Qasim, Iraq, in April, 2007. One Soldier will receive an award for valorous conduct in Halaweya, Iraq, in August, 2007. Two Soldiers will receive awards for valorous conduct in Baghdad in May, 2008. Nine Soldiers will receive awards for valorous conduct in Baghdad in July, 2008.
Media interested in attending this event should contact the 10th SFG Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 524-1220 or e-mailing owenk@ahqb.soc.mil or nogglem@ahqb.soc.mil by 4 p.m. April 14.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, April 09, 2009
Release Number: 09-043

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson future construction site requires asbestos cleanup

April 9, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-043

Press Release
Fort Carson future construction site requires asbestos cleanup

FORT CARSON, Colo. – A future construction site on Fort Carson will require asbestos cleanup prior to the building of family housing and a new Fountain-Fort Carson District 8 elementary school.
A 39-acre parcel of land east of Gate 1, as a precautionary measure, has been fenced off with “Caution Do Not Enter” signs. Some debris containing asbestos was found in March by the posts’ Directorate of Public Works employees during a routine environmental inspection.
The site, located west of the Post Exchange, was previously the site of several World War II-era buildings which were torn down between 1971 and 1998.
Waste materials from demolition such as asbestos-containing cement and siding do not pose a health risk if undisturbed. Colorado Department of Environmental Health and Environment regulations do not require removal and disposal of these materials until construction activities could disturb the materials and cause the asbestos to crumble and become airborne.
Prior to construction, the area will be assessed thoroughly to determine the extent of the problem and develop an appropriate cleanup plan. It is unknown whether the asbestos discovery and resulting cleanup may result in construction delays.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Release Number: 09-042

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts first Military Combatives Tournament

April 8, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-42
Media Opportunity

Fort Carson hosts first
Military Combatives Tournament

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post will host its first Military Combatives Tournament for both male and female Soldiers at the Fort Carson Special Events Center April 9 at 10 a.m.

Participants will compete in seven different weight classes, and the top two competitors from each weight class will represent Fort Carson in the annual Army-wide combatives tournament at Fort Benning, Ga., later this year.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525 by 4 p.m. April 8, for meeting time and location.

Monday, April 06, 2009
Release Number: 09-041

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Apaches arrive at Carson

April 6, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-041

Media Opportunity
Apaches arrive at Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. –Twelve of the 24 AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopters assigned to the 1-2 Attack Reconnaissance Battalion’s fleet, Fort Carson’s newly assigned aviation asset, will arrive to the post today between 2 and 4 p.m. The Apaches were delivered to Port Hueneme, Calif., last week from the Republic of Korea, where the unit had been stationed.

The unit’s stationing at Fort Carson was announced last November. The move was done for operational and Family reasons, according to the Department of the Army. The re-stationing allows the unit to stabilize it Soldiers and Families, preset organizational equipment, and provide an opportunity to train prior to a deployment slated for spring 2010.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon April 6 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, April 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-040

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post hosts 2009 Eggsperience

April 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-040

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post hosts 2009 Eggsperience

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Fort Carson will host its annual Easter-themed event, Eggsperience 2009, at the post’s Special Events Center April 4. This year’s theme is “Going Green with the Bugs and Bees!”

There will be egg hunts for kids, photos with the Easter bunny and Spider-Man, donkey cart rides and a 100-foot banana split. The event is free and open to the public.

In case of inclement weather, some events may be moved inside. If the post is closed due to weather, the event will take place April 5.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. April 3 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, April 02, 2009
Release Number: 09-039

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

43rd Sustainment Bde holds distinguished platoon award ceremony

April 2, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-039
Media Opportunity
43rd SUS BDE holds distinguished platoon award ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post’s 43rd Sustainment Brigade will host the Distinguished Platoon Award Ceremony to highlight two platoons from the 68th CSSB and the 43rd STB. The ceremony will be held at the Special Events Center at 2 p.m. today.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

-30-

Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Release Number: 09-038

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

32nd Transportation Company holds deployment ceremony

April 1, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-038

Media Opportunity
32d TC holds deployment ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post’s 32nd Transportation Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43d Sustainment Brigade will host a deployment ceremony at Garcia Gym in preparation for the unit’s upcoming deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The event will take place April 3 at 3 p.m.
Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. April 2 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Release Number: 09-037

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldier

__________________________________________________________________________________

March 24, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-037
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Spc. Darrell L. Fernandez, a 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldier who died in a military vehicle accident in Iraq, is scheduled for 10 a.m. March 25 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 8 a.m. March 25.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, March 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-036

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes home the 1835th Medical Detachment

March 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-036
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post welcomes home the 1835th Medical Detachment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson and surrounding communities will welcome home approximately 40 Army Reservists serving with the 1835th Medical Detachment at 5:30 p.m., March 24, at the post’s Special Events Center.

Soldiers from the 1835th Medical Detachment, which is based out of Denver, were deployed for 12 months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 1 p.m., March 24, for the meeting times and locations. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Friday, March 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-035

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

71st EOD conducts flag-casing ceremony

March 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-035
Media Opportunity

71st EOD conducts flag-casing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 71st Explosive Ordnance Detachment will conduct a flag-casing ceremony at Manhart Field March 23 to mark the group’s preparedness to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

This is the final ceremony prior to the 71st EOD departing the Mountain Post for a 12-month tour.
Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon March 23.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, March 16, 2009
Release Number: 09-032

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson soldiers conduct convoy live fire training at PCMS

March 16, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-32
Media Opportunity
68th CSSB conducts a Convoy Live Fire Exercise at

Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site

FORT CARSON, Colo. – Soldiers from the 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43rd Sustainment Brigade are conducting a two-week convoy live fire exercise (CLFX) until March 24 at Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site.

CLFX training is designed to prepare Soldiers at a platoon level to effectively perform in a convoy live fire situation while deployed.

Media representatives who would like to cover the exercise will meet at 9 a.m. March 18 at the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site front gate. Please R.S.V.P. no later than
4 p.m., March 17 with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office.

Monday, March 16, 2009
Release Number: 09-033

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson celebrates the Year of the NCO with reenlistment ceremony

March 16, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-33
Media Opportunity

Fort Carson celebrates the Year of the NCO

with reenlistment ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post will pay tribute to the Year of the NCO while hosting a reenlistment ceremony for 16 noncommissioned officers March 17, at 3 p.m. at the installation headquarters building.

The Year of the NCO recognizes the leadership, professionalism, commitment, courage and dedication of noncommissioned officers who have emerged as the Army’s small–unit leaders, trainers’ and guardians of standards.

The NCOs who will be honored at tomorrow’s reenlistment ceremony represent six Fort Carson units, 150 years of combined service and 23 combined deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs office by 10 a.m. March 17.

Monday, March 16, 2009
Release Number: 09-034

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warrior Healthcare Covenant Signing slated

March 16, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-034
Media Opportunity
Warrior Healthcare Covenant Signing slated

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host a Warrior Healthcare Covenant Signing ceremony March 19 at 3 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

The Covenant is a joint affirmation by Fort Carson and Colorado Springs area healthcare providers to ensure dedicated and quality healthcare for Wounded Warriors and their Families.

Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commander; Col. Kelly Wolgast, Evans Army Community Hospital commander; and Lt. Col. Andrew Grantham, Warrior Transition Battalion commander, will host the event. Representatives from Memorial Hospital, Penrose-St. Francis, Cedar Springs, Pikes Peak Mental Health and Parkview Hospital are expected to participate in the signing.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 by 4 p.m. March 18 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, March 12, 2009
Release Number: 09-031

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson holds ASBP blood drive to support deployed Soldiers

March 12, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-031
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson holds ASBP blood drive to support deployed Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host an Armed Services Blood Program Blood Drive March 13-14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center. The need for blood remains critical in part because of the continued support of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

The Armed Services Blood Program from Fort Bliss, Texas, is able to quickly move blood donated locally to wherever it is needed without having to buy it from commercial sources.

Media interested in covering this event March 13 should R.S.V.P. to (719) 526-4143/7525 by 4 p.m. March 12 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-030

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson provides Suicide Prevention Training

March 10, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-030

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson provides Suicide Prevention Training

for Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post’s 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43rd Sustainment Brigade, will conduct unit level Suicide Prevention Training at 1 p.m. March 10, at McMahon Theater.

This training is part of an Army-wide Suicide Prevention Stand Down effort instituted in response to the recent rise in suicide numbers, and all Fort Carson Soldiers, Civilians and Families will be required to participate.

Suicide Prevention Training reflects Fort Carson’s ongoing efforts to raise suicide prevention awareness, eliminate stigmas associated with receiving help, and improve access to care.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office no later than 11:30 a.m. March 10, for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, March 09, 2009
Release Number: 09-029

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson holds ASBP blood drive

March 9, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-029
Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson holds ASBP blood drive to support deployed Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host an Armed Services Blood Program Blood Drive March 13-14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center. Those wishing to donate blood should go online at www.militaryblood.dod.mil/bliss to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins will also be accepted.
Everyone is welcome to donate providing they are healthy (over the age of 17, weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood in the last 56 days). “Healthy" means that you feel well and can perform normal activities.
The Armed Services Blood Program from Fort Bliss, Texas, is able to quickly move blood donated locally to wherever it is needed without having to buy it from commercial sources. The need for blood remains critical in part because of the continued support of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.
Non-Department of Defense decaled vehicles should enter Fort Carson through Gate 1 for vehicle inspection. Gate 1 is located at Highway 115 at Nelson Boulevard. Drivers need to present a current insurance card and valid vehicle registration and driver’s license. Adult passengers must present current government issued photo identification.
For more information about donating blood, contact the Fort Bliss Blood Donor Recruiter at (915) 568-5365.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Release Number: 09-027

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Quarry Fire update

March 4, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-027
Press Release
Quarry Fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Quarry Fire, which began March 3 on Training Areas 7 and 10, has now consumed about 6,500 acres. The fire is 10 percent contained, according to Fort Carson officials.
Currently there are 90 firefighting personnel from six different agencies working the blaze.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the detonation of less than a quarter stick of C-4 in a rock quarry in the training area may be the cause of the fire.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Release Number: 09-028

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Quarry Fire 70% contained

March 4, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-028
Press Release
Quarry Fire 70% contained

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Quarry Fire, which began March 3 in between the post’s Training Areas 7 and 10, has burned nearly 6,500 acres. The fire is 70 percent contained, according to Fort Carson officials.
A preliminary investigation reveals that the detonation of less than a quarter stick of C-4 in a rock quarry in the training area may be the cause of the fire.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Quarry Fire starts at Fort Carson

March 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-025
Press Release
Quarry fire starts at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Approximately 10 a.m. today, a range fire started on Fort Carson training areas. As of noon, the fire had burned about 100 acres.
The fire has been named the “Quarry Fire” and started on Training Areas 7 and 10, about 6 miles south of the main post.
As of noon, the fire is not contained. Colorado Springs and El Paso County are assisting with the wildfire. Air firefighting assets are not available due to high winds.
“We have all available assets at the fire right now and we are working hand-in-hand with local officials to get this fire under control as quickly as possible,” said Col. Eugene Smith, Fort Carson garrison commander.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.

- 30 -

Monday, March 02, 2009
Release Number: 09-024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes home last of the 3rd BCT, 4th ID

Mar. 2, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-024
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 90 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A ceremony will be held Mar. 2 at 11:45 a.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

This is the last group of Soldiers from the 3rd BCT, 4th ID to return from Iraq. Soldiers from the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10:30 a.m. for the meeting time and location. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Thursday, February 26, 2009
Release Number: 09-023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post Soldier awarded Meritorious Service Medal

February 26, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-023

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post Soldier awarded Meritorious Service Medal

FORT CARSON, Colo. – The Mountain Post will host a Meritorious Service Medal award ceremony for Sgt. 1st Class Jesus Rodriguez of Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 759th Military Police Battalion Feb. 27 at 1 p.m.

Rodriguez will receive this honor for heroic actions that saved the life of a rock climber who fell nearly 100 feet while climbing at the Garden of the Gods earlier this month.

Rodriguez, who is a previous Soldier of the Quarter and Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, used the skills he learned in Army Combat Lifesaver Training to assist the fallen climber until emergency services arrived and were able to evacuate the climber to a local hospital.

Media who would like to cover the ceremony should R.S.V.P with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 11 a.m. Feb 27 for meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Monday, February 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson closes gate for exercise

Feb. 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-021
Media Advisory
Gate closure due to training

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Mountain Post commuters may experience delayed access to the installation Feb. 24, due to a Force Protection exercise scheduled for that day.
Gate 2, at the intersection of O’Connell Boulevard and Colorado Highway 115, will be closed during the exercise. All drivers are urged to use alternate gates to access the installation and should expect some delays due to the closure.

- 30 -

Monday, February 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th BCT, 4th ID conducts Operation Gunsmoke

February 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-022

Media Opportunity
4th BCT, 4th ID to conduct
Operation Gunsmoke

FORT CARSON, Colo. -- The Warriors of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will be conducting a week-long fire support coordination exercise called Operation Gunsmoke from Mon, Feb. 23 through Fri, Feb. 27.

Gunsmoke is designed to simulate an Operation Enduring Freedom environment in order to train key leaders at the squad, platoon and company level on the coordination and synchronization of close supporting fires, including close air support, close combat attack, cannon artillery and mortars.

Media are invited to attend on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. For a detailed list of available times and events please contact Maj. T.G. Taylor at (970) 412-3497 to coordinate coverage.

- 30 -

Friday, February 13, 2009
Release Number: 09-020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

3rd BCT, 4th ID return to Mountain Post after deployment

Feb. 13, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-020
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 640 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at the post’s Special Events Center Feb. 15 and Feb. 16.
Two ceremonies are scheduled in honor of the returning Soldiers. The first ceremony is for approximately 280 troops and will begin at 4:20 p.m., Feb. 15. The second ceremony is for about 360 troops and will begin at 1 p.m., Feb. 16.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m., Feb. 13, for the meeting time and location. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Thursday, February 12, 2009
Release Number: 09-019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

3rd BCT, 4ht ID Soldiers return to Mountain Post after deployment

Feb. 12, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-019
Media Opportunity
3rd BCT, 4th ID Soldiers return to Mountain Post after deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 380 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will return to Fort Carson following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. They will be honored in a ceremony at 1 p.m. Feb. 13 at the post’s Special Events Center.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Feb. 13 for the meeting time and location. Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Adjustments to ceremony times will be sent via e-mail.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Release Number: 09-018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

3rd BCT Soldiers return to Mountain Post after deployment

Feb. 11, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-018
Media Opportunity
3rd BCT Soldiers return to Mountain Post after 15-month deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 280 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will return to Fort Carson following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. They will be honored in a ceremony at 11 a.m. Feb. 12 at the post’s Special Events Center.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Feb. 11 for the meeting time and location. Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Adjustments to ceremony times will be sent via e-mail.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hall of Famers host meet and greet at Fort Carson USO

Feb. 10, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-016
Media Opportunity
Hall of Famers host meet and greet at Fort Carson USO

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Fort Carson USO welcomes Major League Baseball Class of 2008 Hall of Fame Inductee, Rich “Goose” Gossage, and NBA Class of 1987 Hall of Fame Inductee, Rick Barry, for a meet and greet/autograph signing session Feb. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 11 a.m. for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Release Number: 09-017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return to Mountain Post after 15-month deployment

Feb. 10, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-017
Media Opportunity
Soldiers return to Mountain Post after 15-month deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 375 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will return to Fort Carson following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. They will be honored in a ceremony at 1 p.m. Feb. 11 at the post’s Special Events Center.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 11 a.m. Feb. 11 for the meeting time and location. Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Adjustments to ceremony times will be sent via e-mail.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, February 09, 2009
Release Number: 09-015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Members of the 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Feb. 9, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-015
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 345 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Feb. 9 at the post’s Special Events Center.
Two ceremonies are scheduled in honor of the returning troops. The first ceremony is for approximately 45 troops and will begin at 1:15 p.m., and the second ceremony is for about 298 troops and is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Feb. 9 for the meeting time and location. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Friday, February 06, 2009
Release Number: 09-014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers of 3rd BCT, 4th ID return to the Mountain Post

Feb. 6, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-014
Media Opportunity
Soldiers of 3rd BCT, 4th ID return to the Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson and the surrounding community will welcome home Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ceremonies will be held Feb. 7 at 9:50 p.m. and Feb. 8 at 11:05 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Feb. 6 for the meeting times and locations. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Thursday, February 05, 2009
Release Number: 09-013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home Feb. 6

Feb. 5, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-013
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 310 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A ceremony will be held Feb. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 2 p.m. Feb. 6 for the meeting time and location. Please note that Soldiers’ return flights are subject to change. Updates to ceremony times will be sent out via e-mail.

- 30 -

Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts National Prayer Breakfast

______________________________________________________________________________

Feb. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Release 09-011

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts annual
National Prayer Breakfast

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host the annual Fort Carson National Prayer Breakfast Feb. 4, at 7 a.m., at the Elkhorn Conference Center.

The event will include a segment by motivational speaker Dave Barr, a breakfast buffet, inspirational and patriotic music and a special time of prayer.

Barr is a former Marine who received 57 air medals while serving on a helicopter gunship in Vietnam and later lost both legs in a landmine explosion. After a lengthy rehabilitation period, he completed his military enlistment, became an inspirational speaker and started the Dave Barr Foundation which is a charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of the disabled.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. Feb. 3 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 . After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Release Number: 09-012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GAO releases report assessing Army's July 2008 report to Congress

Feb. 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-012

Press Release
GAO releases report assessing Army’s July 2008 report to Congress on PCMS

FORT CARSON, Colo. — On Jan. 13, the General Accounting Office released a report (GAO-09-171) assessing the Army’s July 2008 report to Congress on the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site and the need to expand it.
To ensure adequate opportunity for the public to provide additional comments on the Army’s July 2008 report to Congress and on the GAO report, a public comment period will be open through April 17, 2009. During this time, public comments on the PCMS report or the GAO report can be e-mailed to ndaacomments@conus.army.mil or mailed to Department of the Army, Public Affairs Office, ATTN: PCMS Report Comments, 6101 Wetzel Avenue, Fort Carson, CO 80913-4143.
At the completion of the public comment period, all comments will be forwarded to Congress for review.
The PCMS report and the GAO report are available electronically at www.carson.army.mil. A hard copy of the report can be made available upon request for those who do not have access to the Internet.
Media questions regarding the Army report on PCMS as required in the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act should be directed to Mr. Dave Foster at (703) 697-5344 or dave.foster@hqda.army.mil. Media questions regarding local training at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site should call the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, February 02, 2009
Release Number: 09-010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Feb. 2, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-010

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for three 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers killed in Iraq is scheduled for 10 a.m. Feb. 3 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

Soldiers being memorialized are:
— Spc. Stephen G. Zapasnick
— Spc. Stephen M. Okray
— Staff Sgt. Christopher G. Smith

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Feb. 2 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Friday, January 30, 2009
Release Number: Fort Carson Tax Center Opening Ceremony

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Tax Center hosts annual opening ceremony

______________________________________________________________________________
Jan. 30, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 09-009

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson Tax Center hosts
annual opening ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host a celebration in honor of the annual Fort Carson Tax Center opening Feb. 2 at 8:30 a.m.

Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Fort Carson commanding general, Col. Eugene Smith, garrison commander, and Col. Michael Meier, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, will preside over the ceremony.

The center offers free tax services for all active duty service members, mobilized reservists, disabled or retired veterans, family members and surviving family members.

Last year the Fort Carson Tax Center filed 4,012 federal returns saving customers over $650,000 in tax preparation fees. Additionally the tax center’s customers received $8.4 million in tax refunds.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. Jan. 30 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 . After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Release Number: 09-008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th ENG BN conducts flag-casing ceremony

Jan. 28, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-008
Media Opportunity
4th ENG BN conducts flag-casing ceremony
FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 4th Engineer Battalion will conduct a flag-casing ceremony Jan. 29 to mark the group’s preparedness to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

This is the final ceremony prior to the 4th Eng Bn departing the Mountain Post for a 12-month tour.

Media interested in covering this event should RSVP to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Jan. 28.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, January 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Jan. 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-007
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 200 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A ceremony will be held Jan. 28 at 6:30 a.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Jan. 26 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, January 23, 2009
Release Number: 09-006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes 62nd EOD Soldiers home

Jan. 23, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-006
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post welcomes 62nd EOD Soldiers home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 40 Soldiers from the 62nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A ceremony will be held Jan. 26 at 4:20 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
During their deployment, Soldiers of the 62nd EOD provided explosive ordnance disposal support to Task Force Troy at Camp Taji, Iraq.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Jan. 26 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Release Number: 09-005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-6 Cavalry hosts change of command

__________________________________________________________________________________

Jan. 21, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-005

Media Advisory
1-6 Cavalry hosts change of command

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 1-6 Cavalry will host a change of command ceremony Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. at Butts Army Airfield, Fort Carson.

Lt. Col.(P) John Thompson will relinquish command to Lt. Col. Kenneth Chase. The 1-6 Cavalry recently returned from a 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 8:30 a.m. Jan. 22 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525 . After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes 183rd Maintenance Company home

Jan. 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-002
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post welcomes 183rd Maintenance Company Soldiers home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 200 Soldiers from the 183rd Maintenance Company following their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony Jan. 20 at 4:20 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 183rd Maintenance Company provided force protection for 58,000 Coalition Forces and supporting civilians on the Victory Base Compound to include six entry control points, seven perimeter guard towers and a Joint Special Forces Compound. Additionally, the Soldiers provided supply, maintenance and recovery support to all units operating in Multi National Force-West.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 2 p.m. Jan. 20 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Suicide Prevention Classes for Families

January 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-003

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Suicide Prevention Classes for Families

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post’s 43rd Sustainment Brigade is hosting four suicide prevention classes for all Fort Carson Families on Jan. 20-21, at the Family Readiness Center.

The classes will feature guest trainer and licensed psychologist Dr. Kelly Forys, who focuses on a holistic approach with her patients that includes finding a healthy mind, body and spirit balance.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office no later than 4 p.m. Jan. 20, for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Release Number: 09-004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

Jan. 20, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-004
Media Opportunity
Members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID welcomed home

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home about 45 Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division following their 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A ceremony will be held Jan. 21 at noon at the post’s Special Events Center.
Soldiers of the brigade have performed a myriad of missions during their deployment. The 3rd BCT is a heavy (mechanized) infantry brigade with approximately 3,800 Soldiers. The remainder of the brigade will redeploy to Fort Carson throughout the next month.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Jan. 21 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, January 12, 2009
Release Number: 09-001

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post welcomes 396th MP Det home from deployment

Jan. 12, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-001
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post welcomes 396th MP Det home from deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post community will welcome home 28 Soldiers from the 396th Military Police Detachment following their year-long deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in a ceremony Jan. 13 at 5 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.
The 396h MP Det is an Army Reserve unit based in Denver. While deployed, the unit provided personal security to several high-ranking officers.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Jan. 13 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, December 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-151

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post begins Christmas meal preparation

Dec. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-151
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post begins Christmas meal preparation

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will begin Christmas meal preparation for Soldiers, Families, retirees and local area residents who are less fortunate by receiving food shipments Dec. 19 at 9 a.m.
In addition to serving meals to Soldiers and Families on post for the holiday, Fort Carson Soldiers will cook, transport and deliver food to the Salvation Army, Fountain Valley Senior Center, Marion House, Manitou Springs City Hall and New Song Christian Fellowship on Dec. 25.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Dec. 18 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-149

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post achieves Gold LEED sustainable construction rating

Dec. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-149
Press Release
Mountain Post achieves Gold LEED sustainable construction rating

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s new 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division Brigade and Battalion Headquarters building has received the U.S. Green Building Council’s Gold Certificate for leadership in energy and environmental design. The headquarters building, which was completed in August, is the first structure in the Colorado Springs area and in the Army to achieve such a high rating.

The Gold LEED rating is the second highest of four — Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum — in the internationally-recognized sustainable building standards of the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED verifies environmental performance, occupant health and financial return. It was established for market leaders to design and construct buildings that protect and save precious resources while also making good economic sense.

The LEED Certification of one of Fort Carson’s newest buildings is part of the Army’s commitment to environmentally-sustainable projects. “It is only common sense to pursue design and construction elements that will save resources, lower costs and provide an overall better facility for the Soldier,” said Maj. Mark Himes, Fort Carson U.S. Army Corps of Engineer liaison. “I believe it is our responsibility to lead the way for other government agencies and civilian industries to pursue sustainable construction projects.”

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-150

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Purple Heart Medals awarded to 4th ID Soldiers

Dec. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-150
Media Opportunity
Purple Heart Medals awarded to 4th ID Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will receive the Purple Heart Medal during a ceremony at Fort Carson’s McMahon Theater at 1 p.m. Dec. 18.

The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Dec. 18 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, December 11, 2008
Release Number: 08-148

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Agencies host open house on black-footed ferrets

Dec. 10, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-148

Public Service Announcement

Agencies host open house on proposed experimental reintroduction of black-footed ferrets to Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo will host an open house Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. to provide information on a proposed multi-agency effort to reintroduce the black-footed ferret at Fort Carson potentially during the fall of 2009.

The open house meeting will take place at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Lodge at Moose Lake, 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road.

Fort Carson, in partnership with several activities and agencies, is evaluating seeking authorization from the USFWS to conduct a five-year study to determine if a viable population of the black-footed ferret can be established on a new reintroduction site within the original geographic range of the plague in eastern Colorado.

The goal of the proposed reintroduction is to establish a self-sustaining population of ferrets on Fort Carson. If successful, the project will contribute to the recovery and delisting of the black-footed ferret and the restoration of an extremely rare native Great Plains species to Eastern Colorado.

Reintroduction activities would include releasing wild-born or captive-raised ferret kits or adults and conducting subsequent surveys and monitoring to determine presence/absence, survival, dispersal and reproductive success. The project will also involve conducting research to determine the effects of military training on the ferrets and evaluating overall success of the project.

The ferret reintroduction is being proposed for Fort Carson. The installation occupies 57,870 hectares (143,000 acres) in El Paso, Pueblo and Fremont Counties. Within Fort Carson, the proposed reintroduction site is a 960 ha (2,370 acres) black-tailed prairie dog colony near the southern boundary of the installation in Pueblo County. The black-tailed prairie dog is the primary food source for the ferret.

The proposed reintroduction of the black-footed ferret onto Fort Carson represents the third attempt to establish a ferret population in Colorado and the first attempt within the geographical range of the black-tailed prairie dog and east of the Continental Divide in Colorado.

For additional information on the black-footed ferret call (719) 526-4320.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, December 08, 2008
Release Number: 08-147

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

Dec. 8, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-147
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Staff Sgt. Timothy H. Walker and Spc. Armando A. De La Paz, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers killed in action in Iraq is scheduled for 10 a.m. Dec. 10 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Dec. 9.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, December 04, 2008
Release Number: 08-146

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10th Combat Support Hospital Hosts Flag Casing Ceremony

December 4, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-146

Media Opportunity
10th Combat Support Hospital Hosts Flag Casing Ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post’s 10th Combat Support Hospital will host a flag casing ceremony at the Fort Carson Special Events Center in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Iraq on Friday, Dec. 5, at 9:30 a.m.

Approximately 400 troops with the 10th CSH will leave the Mountain Post over the next few weeks for a 12-month deployment to various locations throughout Iraq.

Media interested in covering the event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office no later than 8 a.m. Dec. 5. for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Release Number: 08-145

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-6th CAV Soldiers redeploy to Mountain Post 26 NOV

Nov. 25, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-145
Media Opportunity
1-6th CAV Soldiers redeploy to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 240 Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment will return to the Mountain Post after a 14-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Nov. 26. A ceremony will be held in their honor at 6:30 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

During their deployment, Soldiers of the 1-6th Cav flew reconnaissance and security missions in support of 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division. The squadron flies OH-58 Kiowas. The Kiowa is a single-engine, single-rotor, observation and light attack helicopter.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Nov. 26.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, November 24, 2008
Release Number: 08-144

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post Hosts Sixth Annual Santa's Workshop

November 24, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post Hosts Sixth Annual Santa’s Workshop

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in honor of the opening of the sixth annual Santa’s Workshop on Nov. 25 at 10 a.m.
Santa’s Workshop, which is sponsored by Fort Carson Officers’ Spouses Club, provides toys for the children of military families who may be struggling financially during the holiday season.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 8 a.m. Nov. 25 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, November 21, 2008
Release Number: 08-143

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

127th MP Company re-stations to Fort Carson

Nov. 21, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-143
Media Opportunity
127th MP Company re-stations to Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 759th Military Police Battalion will host a re-stationing ceremony for the 127th Military Police Company Nov. 24 at 10 a.m. at Fort Carson’s Garcia Gym.

The 127th MP Company formerly fell under command and control of the 709th MP Battalion in Germany. As part of force restructuring in Europe, the 127th was transferred to Fort Carson’s 759th MP Battalion.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Nov. 21 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Thursday, November 20, 2008
Release Number: 08-142

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post begins Thanksgiving meal prep

November 20, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-142
Media Opportunity
Mountain Post begins Thanksgiving meal prep

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will begin Thanksgiving meal preparation for Soldiers, Families, retirees and local area residents who are less fortunate by receiving food shipments Nov. 21 at 9 a.m.
In addition to serving meals to Soldiers and Families on post for the holiday, Fort Carson Soldiers will cook, transport and deliver food to the Salvation Army, Fountain Valley Senior Center, Marion House, Manitou Springs City Hall and New Song Christian Fellowship on Nov. 27.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Nov. 20 for the meeting time and location.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Release Number: 08-141

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern Colorado Sustainable Communities Conference held Nov. 20-21

Nov. 19, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-141
Media Opportunity
Southern Colorado Sustainable Communities Conference held Nov. 20-21

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s annual Sustainability Conference will now be hosted by the Catamount Institute. This year’s event, named the Southern Colorado Sustainable Communities Conference, is slated for Nov. 20-21 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Colorado Springs.

The SCSC Conference will feature speakers, vendors and workshops that lead the region toward sustainable change. Conference sessions include topic relating to:
— Green buildings
— Military sustainability
— Energy and water
— Zero waste
— Transportation
— Sustainable food networks
— Sustainable business
— Academic sustainability

Speakers include Denise Coogan, manger of Safety and Environmental Compliance for Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc; Angie Fyfe, program manager of Greening Government for Colorado Governor’s Energy Office; and Joe Cascio, federal environmental executive, Office of the Federal Environmental Executive.

Fort Carson, Colorado Springs Utilities, the Colorado Governor’s Energy Office, Renewal by Andersen, IKON, Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc, and the Southern Colorado Clean Cities Coalition are SCSC Conference partners. Media partners include the Colorado Springs Business Journal and the Colorado Springs Independent.

Eric Cefus, executive director of Catamount Institute, says he hopes the SCSC Conference will support and celebrate sustainable businesses, practices and communities in southern Colorado and will grow in size in coming years.

“The timing is right for our community to step up and lead by example. Sustainability and conservation is and will be playing a critical role in everything we do from health care to our economy to education to our quality of life,” said Cefus. “By offering this conference, we will be able to not only educate, but also engage these communities to act.”

Interested media are invited to attend Nov. 20 from 1-4 p.m. Call the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office to R.S.V.P.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-140

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th ID commander to hold press conference

Nov. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-140
Media Opportunity
4th ID commander to hold press conference

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The commanding general for 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division Baghdad, Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, will host a video teleconference at 10 a.m. Nov. 21.

Hammond will discuss the accomplishments of the 4th ID and re-stationing during a video teleconference from Camp Liberty, Iraq, and provide an update on Soldiers’ activities in Iraq.

The 4th ID has been deployed for 12 months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and has provided a variety of services including security, patrolling the neighborhoods and rebuilding Iraq’s infrastructure.

Media interested in attending the video teleconference should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 by noon Nov. 20.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-139

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-2 Attack Reconnaissance Battalion re-stations to Mountain Post

Nov. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-139
Press Release
1-2 Attack Reconnaissance Battalion re-stations to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Department of the Army announced Nov. 17 the re-stationing of 1-2 Attack Reconnaissance Battalion and its Aviation Intermediate Maintenance structure from Korea to Fort Carson in March 2009. The decision will bring about 500 Soldiers and their Families to the Mountain Post.

Twenty-four of the most modern Army helicopters, the AH-64 Apache Longbow, equip the unit. This aviation asset will aid Soldiers at Fort Carson to train and fight as a combined arms team, and helps fill part of the installation’s aviation requirements.

The Army’s plan to re-station the 1-2 ARB to Fort Carson is both operationally and family focused. It will allow the unit to stabilize its Soldiers and Family members, preset organizational equipment, and to provide an opportunity to properly train prior to its operational deployment in the fall of 2009. The relocation of the unit to Fort Carson will also allow geographically dispersed Family members to consolidate prior to the unit’s deployment.

An interview with a Fort Carson spokesperson will be available today at 1 p.m. Please R.S.V.P. by calling (719) 338-0506 by noon.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, November 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-137

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-6th CAV Soldiers redeploy to Mountain Post

Nov. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-137
Media Opportunity
1-6th Cav Soldiers redeploy to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 50 Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment will return to the Mountain Post after a 14-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom early Tuesday morning. A ceremony will be held in their honor at 3:40 a.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Nov. 17.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, November 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-138

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warrior Transition Unit hosts provider marriage conference

Nov. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-138
Media Opportunity
Warrior Transition Unit hosts provider marriage conference

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Members of Fort Carson’s Warrior Transition Unit support staff (cadre) and their spouses will attend a marriage enrichment seminar at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Colorado Springs Nov. 19 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

WTU support staff endure long hours in their role as caregivers for Fort Carson’s wounded warriors, greatly adding to the stress and strain in their personal lives. Marriage enrichment counselors from Fort Carson’s Army Community Service will present strategies and approaches to strengthening marriages.

Chaplain (Capt.) Ted Highhouse, WTU coordinator for the event, said that similar events have been held in the past for WTU soldiers and their spouses, but not for support staff. “The battalion command,” he said, “is concerned that the heavy workload is adversely affecting those who provide care for our wounded warriors.” Providing for the providers, Highhouse added, is an important part of caring for wounded soldiers.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling (719) 526-4143 / 7525 by 1 p.m. Nov. 19.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Release Number: 08-136

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

Nov. 12, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-136

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warriors

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Spc. Christopher Fox and Sgt. Michael Clark, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers killed in action in Iraq is scheduled for 10 a.m. Nov. 13 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Nov. 12 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Monday, November 10, 2008
Release Number: 08-135

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-6 Cav Soldiers return to Mountain Post

Nov. 10, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-135
Media Opportunity
1-6th Cav Soldiers return to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 75 Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment will return to the Mountain Post after a 14-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Tuesday. A ceremony will be held in their honor at 11:25 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling (719) 338-0506 by 4 p.m. Nov. 11.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, November 03, 2008
Release Number: 08-132

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Evans Army Community Hospital expands health care for Soldiers, Families

Nov. 3, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-132
Press Release
Evans Army Community Hospital expands health care for Soldiers, Families

FORT CARSON, Colo. — “Today we are here to plant the seed of growth at Evans. This Soldier Family Care Center will be a truly visible sign of the medical and dental capability growth that began some time ago,” said Col. Kelly A. Wolgast, commander of Evans Army Community Hospital, at a groundbreaking ceremony Oct. 31.
According to Wolgast, the new tri-level facility will greatly expand the hospital’s ability to treat the influx of Soldiers and their Family members as the remaining portion of the 4th Infantry Division, the “Grow the Army” brigade and other smaller units positioned to be stationed at Fort Carson.
“These efforts are part of a long-term strategic plan to provide the medical and dental space needed to care for the number of Soldiers and their Families at Fort Carson,” she said.
Capt. Scott Anderson, adjutant of EACH, explained that the growth of the hospital is a direct result of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission recommendations that Fort Carson expand. The 4th ID, headquartered at Fort Hood, Texas, and currently deployed to Iraq, will return completely to Fort Carson next year. The division was previously stationed at Fort Carson from 1970-1995 and the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Brigade Combat Teams are already home stationed here.
He said that the hospital is currently 514,820 square feet and the new facility will add 153,000 square feet. There will be physical therapy, occupational therapy, family medicine, podiatry and pediatrics clinics as well as offices for social work services.
Kiewit Building Group of Englewood, Colo., is the lead on the design-build team contracted to construct the facility, which should be done in approximately two years. According to A.J. Klebba III, vice president for Healthcare Service of Kiewit, said that the company has a long-standing affiliation with Fort Carson, having constructed many of the buildings in the 1940s when the installation was still Camp Carson.
Brig. Gen. James K. Gilman, commander of the U.S. Army Great Plains Region Medical Command, stressed the importance of caring for Soldiers and that this expansion is typical for Army hospitals around the world. He noted that in the last several years that Army hospitals have fallen under public scrutiny and expansions are one way that the Army can ensure all Soldiers will be cared for.
“Outstanding facilities support outstanding health care,” said Wolgast. “We will embrace this building and transform it into an environment for healing.”

Written by Douglas Rule, Fort Carson Public Affairs

Monday, November 03, 2008
Release Number: 08-133

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson's Prescribed Burn Program Reduces Potential for Wildfires

Nov. 3, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-133
Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson’s Prescribed Burn Program Reduces Potential for Wildfires

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson Fire and Emergency Services will conduct prescribed burns Nov. 10 through December, or until wet weather stops operations.

Fort Carson has a proactive prescribed burn program to offset the potential for wildfires.

In 2007, Fort Carson officials conducted 26 prescribed fires, burning a total of 15,656 acres, and contained 201 wildfires which would have impacted about 3,300 acres. Prescribed fires are conducted both on Fort Carson and at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site to facilitate military training and natural resource conservation. The carefully planned and executed fires reduce heavy vegetation in training areas that could provide potential fire fuel.

Prescribed fires are conducted in accordance with permits issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and in coordination with the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment and Las Animas County.

At Fort Carson, Directorate of Emergency Services and Directorate of Environmental Compliance and Management staff develop prescribed burn plans to reduce smoke impacts by combining favorable weather conditions with a variety of fire management techniques aimed at keeping smoke to a minimum.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, October 30, 2008
Release Number: 08-131

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ground breaking ceremony held at Evans Army Community Hospital

Oct. 30, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-131
Media Opportunity
Ground breaking ceremony held at Evans Army Community Hospital

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Evans Army Community Hospital will hold a ground breaking ceremony for its new Soldier Family Care Clinic Oct. 31 at 1 p.m.

The new Soldier Family Care Clinic will be a 153,000 square foot, 3-story structure used to provide medical care to Soldiers and their Families. The clinic will be located 33 feet east of the current hospital. Its expected completion date is September 2010.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Oct. 31 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, October 27, 2008
Release Number: 08-130

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Red Ribbon Week campaign includes mock crash at Fort Carson

Oct. 27, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-130
Media Opportunity
Red Ribbon Week campaign includes mock crash at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A “mock” car crash Oct. 28 at the Mountain Post that will involve several agencies responding to a serious alcohol-related incident is part of the post’s Red Ribbon Week 2008 campaign.

Red Ribbon Week is a national campaign that focuses on reducing the demand for alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. It started in 1985 when law enforcement officer Enrique Camarena was murdered while attempting to stop drug smuggling. The week calls upon citizens to become aware of the drug problems in their communities and to show their support and commitment by wearing a Red Ribbon.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 27 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 24, 2008
Release Number: 08-129

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Soldier awarded Soldier's Medal

Oct. 24, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-129

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson Soldier awarded Soldier’s Medal

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Staff Sgt. Jaime West, Fort Carson Dental Activity, will be presented the Soldier’s Medal Oct. 27 at 2:30 p.m. at the post’s Elkhorn Conference Center.

West will receive the medal for saving three Colorado Springs children from drowning in a near-frozen pond last February. West was driving in the Stetson Hills area of Colorado Springs last winter when he spotted three children playing on a not-quite-frozen collection pond. As he was driving past, one of the children jumped on the ice, causing all three of them to fall into the chilly water. West assisted the three children to safety.

The Soldier's Medal was first introduced by a law passed by Congress on July 2, 1926. The criteria for the medal are: "The Soldier's Medal is awarded to any person of the Armed Forces of the United States or of a friendly foreign nation who, while serving in any capacity with the Army of the United States, distinguished himself or herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. The medal is awarded to Soldiers who risk their lives to save other people.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Oct. 27 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, October 20, 2008
Release Number: 08-127

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th BCT, 4th ID begins 'Warrior Strike' exercise

Oct. 20, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-127
Media Opportunity
4th BCT, 4th ID begins ‘Warrior Strike’ exercise

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will begin “Warrior Strike,” a two-part field exercise to prepare the brigade for its upcoming deployment. The brigade will deploy to Afghanistan in the spring of 2009.

Soldiers of the 3rd Battalion, 61st Cavalry Regiment will be conducting training exercises at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site Oct. 20-24. While there, the unit will be conducting several different types of missions including reconnaissance, raids, mounted movement and dismounted movement. The terrain at the maneuver site closely replicates the terrain and conditions Soldiers of the brigade will likely encounter in Afghanistan.

Media are invited to see the training Oct. 22 at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the meeting time and location by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 21.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-125

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1-6th Cav Soldiers return to Mountain Post

Oct. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-125
Media Opportunity
1-6th Cav Soldiers return to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 50 Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment will return to the Mountain Post after a 14-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Saturday. A ceremony will be held in their honor at 4:30 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 17.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-126

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson responds to Sen. Salazar letter

Oct. 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-126
Press Release
Fort Carson responds to Sen. Salazar letter

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, commanding general of Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson, received a copy of a letter by Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) to Secretary of the Army Peter Geren, prompting Graham to contact Sen. Salazar.

“I spoke to Senator Salazar today regarding his concerns outlined in his letter to Secretary of the Army Geren,” Graham said. “We are all saddened by the recent murder of Ms. Judi Lawrence and our thoughts and prayers are with her family.

“We have many great young Americans in our Army who have volunteered to serve during a time of war, almost all of whom are great citizens. However, we too are very concerned about these horrible acts. Therefore, I have established a comprehensive task force to identify any commonalities between previous homicides by our Soldiers or former Soldiers. This task force is comprised of representatives from legal, medical (to include behavioral health), law enforcement and human resources, and will report directly to me.

“This remains the land of the Free … Because of the Brave.”

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, October 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-124

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson to host Retiree Appreciation Day, media invite

Oct. 16, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-124

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson to host Retiree Appreciation Day

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host a Retiree Appreciation Day for the military retiree community of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming Oct. 18 from 7 a.m. to noon at the post’s Special Events Center.

Fort Carson will make medical, dental, legal and financial resources available to participants. Flu and pneumonia shots will be part of the medical and dental screenings. Powers of attorney and advance medical directives will be prepared by the judge advocate general staff. Additionally, discounts will be available a the post exchange and commissary.

Media interested in covering this event should contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 17 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Release Number: 08-123

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

549th QM Co, 360th Trans Co Soldiers return to Mountain Post

Oct. 15, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-123
Media Opportunity
549th QM Co, 360th Trans Co Soldiers return to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 170 Soldiers from the 549th Quartermaster Company and 360th Transportation Company will return to the Mountain Post following a 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Oct. 16 at 12:30 p.m. at the Special Events Center.

During their deployment, Soldiers of the 549th provided showers, laundry and clothing repair services for troops. The unit processed more than 60,000 pounds of laundry per month and provided 5,000 showers per month.

The 360th Transportation Company completed 444 missions and logged more than 1 million miles. While in theater, the 360th Soldiers hauled fuel, major end items, repair parts and mail to combat outposts and forward operating bases.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Oct. 16.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 10, 2008
Release Number: 08-121

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army Notice of Availability of the Fort Carson Grow the Army DEIS

Oct. 10, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-121

Public Service Announcement
Army Notice of Availability of the Fort Carson Grow the Army Stationing Decisions Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)

FORT CARSON, COLO. — The Army announced today the availability of the Fort Carson Grow the Army Stationing Decisions Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The DEIS was prepared in accordance with the Army’s responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act.

This DEIS analyzes alternatives for implementation of stationing decisions affecting Fort Carson that were made in the December 2007 Record of Decision for the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Army Growth and Force Structure Realignment, and for the potential stationing of a medium Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Carson.

Under the 2007 stationing decisions, Fort Carson is scheduled to receive an additional Infantry Brigade Combat Team in 2011. Implementation actions include construction of facilities and training the additional Soldiers at Fort Carson and the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. Facility construction is proposed only at Fort Carson. This DEIS does not analyze the proposed expansion of the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. The DEIS is available electronically for download at www.aec.army.mil.

The Army invites the general public, local governments, other federal and state agencies to submit written comments or suggestions concerning the analyses and alternatives addressed in the DEIS. Comments on the DEIS must be received by Nov. 24, 2008. The general public, local governments, other federal and state agencies are also invited to participate in public meetings where oral and written comments and suggestions on the DEIS will be received.

Public meetings will be held in Trinidad, La Junta, and Colorado Springs, Colo. The Trinidad meeting will be held Oct. 27 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Trinidad State Junior College, 600 Prospect Street, Trinidad, Colo. The La Junta meeting will be held Oct. 28 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Otero Junior College, 2001 San Juan Avenue, La Junta, Colo. The Colorado Springs meeting will be held Oct. 29 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel located at I-25 and Circle.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, October 10, 2008
Release Number: 08-122

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Up with People stops at Fort Carson

Oct. 10, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-122
Media Opportunity
Up With People stops at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The cast of Up With People will perform for community members Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m. The show is free and open to the public. There are no tickets, so seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Up With People is a high-energy music show featuring students from dozens of countries around the world. The singing group seeks to unite various people and cultures through their free shows.

Media are invited to attend the production and should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 10.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Release Number: 08-119

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson to host Retiree Appreciation Day

Oct. 8, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-119

Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson to host Retiree Appreciation Day

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson will host a Retiree Appreciation Day for the military retiree community of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming Oct. 18 at the post’s Special Events Center. A complimentary continental breakfast will be served from 7-8 a.m. All events and services offered are free.

Fort Carson will make medical, dental, legal and financial resources available to participants. Flu and pneumonia shots will be part of the available medical and dental screenings. Powers of attorney and advance medical directives will be prepared by the judge advocate general staff. Additionally, discounts will be available at the post exchange and commissary.

- 30 -

Monday, October 06, 2008
Release Number: 08-118

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post remembers fallen Warrior

Oct. 6, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-118

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post remembers fallen Warrior

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Spc. Steven J. Fitzmorris, a 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldier killed in action in Iraq, is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Oct. 7 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Release Number: 08-116

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers return from OIF deployment

Sept. 24, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-116

Media Opportunity
Soldiers return from OIF deployment

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will welcome about 170 Soldiers back from a 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at the post’s Special Events Center.

Returning Soldiers are assigned to the 59th Military Police Company, 230th Finance Battalion and 360th Transportation Company. A combined ceremony will be held.

Media wishing to cover the event should contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 by noon Sept. 25 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, September 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-115

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mountain Post hosts Fall Fiesta

Sept. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-115

Media Opportunity
Mountain Post hosts Fall Fiesta

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host its Fall Fiesta Sept. 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the post’s Iron Horse Park.

The event is open to the public and offers a car, truck and motorcycle show, a boom-off contest, Latin music, Hispanic food and activities for children.

Media wishing to cover the event should meet contact the Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Sept.19 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, September 15, 2008
Release Number: 08-114

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson growth brings community benefits and challenges

Sept. 15, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-114

FORT CARSON, Colo. — In late 2006, Fort Carson embarked upon a massive Military Construction Program to plan, design and construct more than $2.25 billion in new facilities and infrastructure to accommodate more than 28,000 troops by 2013.

This construction program has been and will continue to be a boost to the local economy. The majority of designers, contractors and suppliers come from the Front Range area. To date, nearly 2 million man hours of local craft-worker labor has been used to construct the facilities, which are being built at a present pace of more than $40 million per month. Barracks; motor pools; dining halls; headquarters buildings; gyms; child care facilities; firing ranges; training complexes; hospital expansion; and roads and utility infrastructure are in progress.

While successful, the construction program has encountered its share of challenges. One of those being mold detected in the interior of the modular barracks buildings. Earlier this summer, during an initial inspection of the module stacking, small areas of mold were identified by the contractor, Hensel Phelps Construction from Greeley, Colo.

Since that time, the contractor has been aggressively working with mold remediation experts to identify, remediate and clear the mold. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has also hired an industry expert in mold remediation to assure any mold is completely removed and remediated prior to there being occupants in the buildings.

To date, two of the five barracks buildings have been tested and remediated for mold. Efforts will continue by the contractor, as well as verification by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for the next several months until each building is confirmed clean through an extensive set of confirmation and evaluation from several third party experts hired by both the contractor’s insurance carrier and the Corps of Engineers. Such is required prior to ownership transferring from the contractor to the government.

Media are invited to tour the barracks’ areas impacted by mold Sept. 16 at 1 p.m. and to speak with construction personnel, Army Corps of Engineers representatives and mold remediation experts.

Media wishing to cover the event should contact the Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m. Sept.16 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, September 11, 2008
Release Number: 09-113

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Purple Heart Medals awarded to 3rd BCT, 4th ID Soldiers

______________________________________________________________________________

September 9, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 09-113
Media Opportunity
Purple Heart Medals awarded to 3rd BCT, 4th ID Soldiers

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Four 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldiers will receive the Purple Heart Medal during a ceremony at Fort Carson’s Elkhorn Catering and Conference Center at 10 a.m. Sept. 11.

Media interested in covering this event should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Sept. 10 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 or 526-7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Release Number: 08-110

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warhorse Brigade manifests for Iraq

Sept. 2, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-110

Media Opportunity
Warhorse Brigade manifests for Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will manifest for their deployment to Iraq Sept. 3 at 9 a.m.

Soldiers will await transportation and finish last-minute preparations for their year-long deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom at one of Fort Carson’s gyms. Media are invited to talk to Soldiers of the Warhorse Brigade during this time.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 by 4 p.m. Sept. 2 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Release Number: 08-109

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Larson Dental Clinic ribbon-cutting ceremony set

Aug. 26, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-109

Media Opportunity
Larson Dental Clinic ribbon-cutting ceremony set

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Following 21-months of renovations and nearly $8.6 million in upgrades, Fort Carson officials will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the post’s Larson Dental Clinic Aug. 28 at 10 a.m.

Renovations to the building include security and handicap-accessible upgrades, an additional dental chair, new X-ray machines and lab equipment. The clinic will be rededicated to the late Col. Harold R. Larson, a distinguished Army dentist who designed and engineered dental clinics, among other accomplishments.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143 by 4 p.m. Aug. 27 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Release Number: 08-108

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Women's Equality Day celebration

Aug. 25, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-108

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Women’s Equality Day celebration

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Equal Opportunity Office will host a Women’s Equality Day celebration Aug. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the post’s Elkhorn Conference Center.

Command Sgt. Maj. Athena Velez, 43rd Sustainment Brigade command sergeant major, will be the guest speaker.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Aug. 25 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Monday, August 25, 2008
Release Number: 08-107

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

Aug. 22, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-107

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

Run for the Fallen is a run across America from Fort Irwin, Calif., to Arlington Cemetery in Virginia. Runners and walkers are encouraged to participate in this free event.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. by calling (719) 338-0506 by 4 p.m. for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, August 21, 2008
Release Number: 08-106

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Soldier undergoes general court-martial for desertion

Aug. 21, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-106

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson Soldier undergoes general court-martial

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Pvt. Robin Long, a Soldier assigned to Fort Carson’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will undergo a general court-martial beginning Aug. 22 at 9 a.m. at the post’s courthouse.

Long is charged with desertion. A general court-martial consists of not less than five members and a military judge, or an accused may be tried by military judge alone upon request of the accused. A general court-martial is often characterized as a felony court, and may try all persons subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including officers and enlisted.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143/7525 no later than 4 p.m. Aug. 21. No recording devices or photography will be allowed in the courtroom during the trial.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Release Number: 08-105

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

Aug. 19, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-105

Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson hosts Run for the Fallen

Run for the Fallen is a run across America from Fort Irwin, Calif., to Arlington Cemetery in Virginia. Runners and walkers are encouraged to participate in this free event.

For details about participation, call (719) 526-4494. Registration begins at 3:30 p.m., or register online at http://mwr.carson.army.mil and click on the Run for the Fallen icon.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-104

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army Soldier Show slated at Fort Carson

Aug. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-104
Media Opportunity
Army Soldier Show slated at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The cast and crew of the Army Soldier Show will perform for community members Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 20 at 2 and 7 p.m. The show is free and open to the public. There are no tickets, so seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This year’s theme is “A Taste of Baghdad,” complete with a stage floor resembling sand and a façade that’s covered with desert camouflage nets and faux sandbags. A Fort Carson Solider is in this year’s cast; Sgt. Kevin Lynum, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Media are invited to attend the Aug. 20 at 2 p.m. production. Media should R.S.V.P. for the event by calling the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Aug. 20.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 18, 2008
Release Number: 08-103

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2nd BCT, 4th ID to conduct casing ceremony

Aug. 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-103
Media Opportunity
2nd BCT, 4th ID to conduct casing ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division will conduct a color casing ceremony Aug. 20 at 10 a.m. to mark the Warhorse Brigade’s readiness to deploy to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The ceremony will be held on Fort Carson’s Manhart Field.

This will be the final ceremony prior to the 2nd BCT’s departure for a 12 month tour. Media are invited to attend a press conference after the ceremony with Col. Butch Kievenaar, the 2nd BCT commander.

Media should R.S.V.P. for the ceremony by contacting Maj. Tanya Bradsher, 2nd BCT Public Affairs Officer at (719) 359-6958 or e-mail Tanya.Bradsher@us.army.mil.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, August 15, 2008
Release Number: 08-102

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NDAA report on PCMS available online

Aug. 15, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-102
Press Release
NDAA report available online

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 2831(a) required the Army to complete a report on the proposed expansion of the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS) in Southeastern Colorado. This report was completed and submitted to Congress July 18.

In addition to the reporting requirement, Section 2831(c) of the 2008 NDAA requires the Army to solicit public comments on the report and provide those comments to Congress. The 90 day public comment period will open Aug. 15 and remain open through Nov. 15. Over the next 90 days, public comments on the PCMS report can be submitted by going to the Fort Carson website at www.carson.army.mil and clicking on the link titled “NDAA Comments,” located on the left side of the page under Piñon Canyon. Comments can also be mailed to: Fort Carson Public Affairs Office, ATTN: PCMS Report Comments, 6151 Specker Avenue, Fort Carson, CO 80913-5119.

At the completion of the public comment period, all comments will be forwarded to Congress for review.

The PCMS report is available electronically at www.carson.army.mil under the “Piñon Canyon” link. A hard copy of the report will be made available for those who do not have access to the Internet.

Media questions regarding the U.S. Army’s NDAA report on PCMS should be directed to Mr. Dave Foster at (703) 697-5344 or dave.foster@hqda.army.mil. Media question regarding PCMS should be directed to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office, Ms. Dee McNutt at (719) 526-1269 or doraine.mcnutt@conus.army.mil.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Release Number: 08-101

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson TA 30 fire update

Aug. 13, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-101
Press Release
Fort Carson TA-30 fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The fire that began Tuesday in Fort Carson’s training area 30 is currently about 75 acres in size and is zero percent contained.

There are about 70 personnel on hand working the fire. Crews from Fort Carson, Colorado Springs Fire Department, Rio Grande and San Isabel National Forest are included in those numbers, according to Fort Carson Assistant Fire Chief Mike Orr.

No evacuations have been ordered and there is currently no danger to structures.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 11, 2008
Release Number: 08-100

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Memorial service scheduled for Fort Carson Soldier killed in Iraq

Aug. 11, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-100
Media Opportunity
Memorial service scheduled for Fort Carson Soldier killed in Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Hammett, a 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Soldier killed in action in Iraq, is scheduled for 10 a.m. Aug. 13 at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. Aug. 12 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, August 04, 2008
Release Number: 08-097

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2nd Transportation Company redeploys to Mountain Post

Aug. 4, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-097
Media Opportunity
2nd Transportation Company redeploys to Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — About 50 Soldiers of the 2nd Transportation Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43rd Sustainment Brigade, will be welcomed home in a ceremony Aug. 6 at 8:15 p.m. at Fort Carson’s Special Events Center.

The unit has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom for 15 months. While in theater, the Soldiers of the 2nd TC transported inbound and outbound unit equipment and goods.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by noon Aug. 6.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, July 24, 2008
Release Number: 08-096

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldier and Family Assistance Center Grand Opening Ceremony

July 23, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 08-096
Media Opportunity
Soldier and Family Assistance Center

Grand Opening Ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Soldier and Family Assistance Center will host a grand opening ceremony at 1p.m. on July 25, to celebrate the completion of its newly built facility at Fort Carson.
Major Gen. Mark Graham, commanding general Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson, will preside over the event.
The SFAC, which began operating here in January 2008, is specifically designed to assist wounded warriors assigned to Fort Carson’s Warrior Transition Battalion.
Wounded warriors and their families will be able to access several services at the SFAC including, educational and financial counseling, social services and chaplain counseling, Veterans’ Affairs and Social Security Administration assistance and Child and Youth Services assistance.
Media representatives who would like to attend the ceremony should RSVP with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-7525 no later than 10 a.m. Friday, July 25.
For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Thursday, July 17, 2008
Release Number: 08-095

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assistant Secretary of the Army Keith Eastin hosts press conference

July 17, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-095
Media Opportunity
Assistant Secretary of the Army Keith Eastin hosts press conference to discuss Piñon Canyon

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations and Environment, Mr. Keith Eastin, along with Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general, will host a brief press conference to discuss the Grow the Army initiative as well as answer questions on the possible expansion of the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site. The event will be held at 9:30 a.m. on July 18 at Fort Carson’s Gate 1.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-094

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

43rd ASG reflags, hosts change of command

July 16, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release 08-094
Media Opportunity
43rd ASG reflags, hosts change of command

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 43rd Area Support Group will host a combined ceremony to reflag and change command July 18 at 10 a.m. on Fort Carson’s Manhart Field.
The 43rd ASG will officially become the 43rd Sustainment Brigade during the event while Col. John C. Howard will relinquish command to Col. Edward M. Daly.
As part of Army Transformation from a division-based structure to a brigade-based army, area support groups are being transformed to sustainment brigades. A sustainment brigade has a joint capability that allows the Army to better manage the flow of logistics into the area of operations and provides support to other services for common logistics like fuel, ammunition, medical supplies, and repair parts of wheeled vehicles.
Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. July 17 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143/7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Release Number: 08-092

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warhorse Brigade hosts pre-deployment fair

July 14, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-092

Media Opportunity
Warhorse Brigade hosts pre-deployment fair

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, hosts a pre-deployment fair at Fort Carson July 14-17 at the Double Tree Hotel in Colorado Springs.
This event is open to both Soldiers and Family members of the 2nd BCT. During the fair, there will be presentations from legal, TRICARE, Army Community Service and more. Information booths from a variety of agencies will also be available.
Media are invited to attend July 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and can R.S.V.P. by contacting the 2nd BCT Public Affairs Officer, Maj. Tanya Bradsher, at (719) 359-6958 or e-mail Tanya.Bradsher@us.army.mil.

- 30 -

Monday, July 14, 2008
Release Number: 08-090

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Military Golf outreach program launches at Fort Carson

July 14, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-090
Media Opportunity
Military Golf outreach program launches at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson, the United States Golf Association and the National Amputee Golf Association are hosting a First Swing golf clinic at Fort Carson’s Cheyenne Shadows Golf Course July 13 and 14.

The two day event will introduce and promote the recreational and therapeutic values of golf to wounded warriors and retired Soldiers.

Sunday’s session included hands-on training for local golf instructors and therapists, who learned to assist injured soldiers, and on Monday instructors and therapists will work with soldiers in rehabilitation as a practical teaching and learning experience.

The program is also a research tool and results will be used to develop a golf curriculum that other military installations will use for training and treating soldiers and veterans.

Media who are interested in covering Monday’s activities should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10:30 a.m. July 14 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-7525. After hours please contact the 24-hour Installation Operations Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, July 11, 2008
Release Number: 08-089

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts open house for new Family Readiness Center

July 11, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-089
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts open house for new Family Readiness Center

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will host an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony for its newly renovated, state-of-the-art Family Readiness Center July 14 at 10 a.m.

The Family Readiness Center is a community center where Families and Soldiers can gather for support activities before, during and after deployments. The 16,000 square-foot building, part of the old hospital complex at the post, has been remodeled according to historic preservation standards at a cost of $3 million.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 8 a.m. July 14 for the meeting time and location.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143. After hours please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Release Number: 08-088

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson welcomes new 71st Ordnance Group commander

July 9, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-088
Media Opportunity
Fort Carson welcomes new 71st Ordnance Group commander

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Mountain Post will welcome Col. Patrick Kelly, 71st Ordnance Group commander, in an assumption of command ceremony July 10 at 10 a.m. at Manhart Field.
A relinquishment of command ceremony was held last month when Col. Karl Reinhard departed for his next assignment.

On order, the 71st deploys and conducts operations in support of the combative commanders or other government agencies to counter chemical, biological, radiological/nuclear and explosive and weapons of mass destruction threats.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m. July 9 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Monday, July 07, 2008
Release Number: 08-087

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Garrison hosts change of responsibility, retirement ceremony

July 7, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-087
Media Opportunity
Garrison hosts change of responsibility, retirement ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph P. Van Dyke, the Garrison command sergeant major, will retire in a ceremony at Fort Carson’s Manhart Field July 8 at 10 a.m. Also at that time, a change of responsibility ceremony will take place where Van Dyke will pass the reigns to Command Sgt. Maj. James Kilpatrick.

Van Dyke has served 30 years in the U.S. Army. He has served in every enlisted leadership position from squad leader to command sergeant major. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (with two oak leaf clusters); the Army Commendation Medal (with five oak leaf clusters); the Army Achievement Medal (with one silver oak leaf cluster); the Army Good Conduct Medal (ninth award); National Defense Service Medal (with one bronze service star); Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Korea Defense Service Medal; Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (with numeral four); Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (with numeral three); Track and Wheeled Vehicle Driver’s Badge; and Wheeled and Track Mechanic’s Badge.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143 by 8 a.m. July 8 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Release Number: 08-084

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4th BCT, 4th ID hosts change of command ceremony

July 1, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-084

Media Opportunity
4th BCT, 4th ID hosts change of command ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Soldiers of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will bid farewell to the man who led them through a 15-month tour in Iraq during a change of command ceremony July 2. The ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Manhart Field.

Col. Jeffrey L. Bannister will relinquish command to Col. Randy A. George. Bannister led what was then the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, October 2006-December 2007. The unit has since reflagged to the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with Fort Carson Public Affairs by 4 p.m. July1.

- 30 -

Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Release Number: 08-085

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson hosts July Fourth on the 3rd celebration

July 1, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-085

Media Opportunity
Fort Carson hosts July Fourth on the 3rd celebration

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host the post’s Independence Day celebration July 3 from 4-10 p.m. at Ironhorse Park.

There will be live music, food and family activities, along with a live band, bounce houses and climbing walls. The event is free and open to the public.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with Fort Carson Public Affairs by noon July 3.

- 30 -

Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Release Number: 08-086

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson releases name of Soldier who died in car crash

July 1, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-086

News Release
Fort Carson releases name of Soldier who died in car crash

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Fort Carson Soldier who died in an early morning car accident in Colorado Springs June 29 is Spc. Kacey C. Day, 20, of Camas, Wash. Day was assigned to A Company, 1-12th Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

“The Mountain Post family is deeply saddened by the death of one of our own. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of this Soldier,” said Col. B. Shannon Davis, Fort Carson chief of staff.

The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation.

- 30 -

Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Release Number: 08-083

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

5025th Garrison Support Unit inactivates

June 25, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-083

Media Opportunity
5025th Garrison Support Unit inactivates

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The United States Army Reserve at Fort Carson will inactivate a unit, the 5025th Garrison Support Unit, at a ceremony June 28 at 1 p.m. This ceremony will take place at the Special Events Center.

The 5025th was activated December, 1997. This 300 person unit was designated as Fort Carson’s war-fighting reserve garrison to support mobilization and backfill those Soldiers who deploy at the power projection platform. Duties formerly performed by members of the 5025th have recently been filled with contractors.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with Fort Carson Public Affairs by noon, June 27.

- 30 -

Monday, June 23, 2008
Release Number: 08-082

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson clarifies gate changes

June 23, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-082

Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson clarifies gate changes

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Beginning today, Fort Carson’s access control procedures changed. To clarify what these changes mean to motorists entering the installation, the Provost Marshal’s Office has issued the following:

Motorists with a Department of Defense decal (including those with extended temporary passes) can enter the installation through any of the post’s six gates. However, gate 1 (Colorado Highway 115 and Nelson Boulevard) will be the primary visitor access/processing gate. Gate 3 (Academy Boulevard and Chiles Avenue) will be the primary contractor and commercial vehicle gate. There will not be designated lanes at either gate 1 or 3 for decaled vehicles, and priority will not be give to those with decals.

Vehicles without a DoD decal or temporary extended pass, but with a DoD ID cardholder in the vehicle, will be required to use gate 1 or register their vehicle at the Vehicle Registration Office, building 6012, outside gate 1.

Contractors with post decals or temporary extended passes are authorized to use any gate. Those participating in the RAPIDGate program are also authorized to use any gate.

Gate 1 is the visitor access gage. All non-decaled vehicles will need to use gate 1. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Gate 2 is open for decaled vehicles only from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Gate 3 is the contractor/commercial vehicle gate. All non-decaled contractor and commercial vehicles are required to use this gate for access. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Gate 4 is open for decaled vehicles only. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Gate 5 is open for decaled vehicles only. It is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.

- 30 -

Monday, June 23, 2008
Release Number: 08-081

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site 'Bridger' Fire 100% contained

June 22, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-081

Press Release
Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site ‘Bridger’ Fire 100% contained

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site “Bridger” Fire is 100 percent contained as of early Sunday morning, according to post officials.

Due to the containment status of the fire perimeter, the Unified Command Type 3 Team resourced by the Colorado State Forest Service, The U.S. Forest Service and Fort Carson will transition to a Type 4 Team resourced by Fort Carson beginning early Sunday morning.

Fort Carson Wildland Fire personnel will continue to monitor the fire area. Local residents may continue to see smoke as fire areas that are considered contained may smolder for several weeks.

- 30 -

Friday, June 20, 2008
Release Number: 08-080

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PCMS 'Bridger' fire update

June 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-080
Press Release
PCMS ‘Bridger’ fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site fire personnel responded to a fire located on Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site Monday, June 9. The fire was located at Spring Canyon and was approximately six acres in size. Local residents may have seen smoke emanating from this fire.

The ‘Bridger’ fire – which is currently 85 percent contained – showed Tuesday, June 10. The fire began in Red Rock Canyon.

Due to the location of this fire on treacherous terrain with heavy fuels plus the combination of strong winds and low relative humidity, the fire spread quickly. Fort Carson firefighting resources had the lead in battling the blaze until a Type 2 Incident Management Team arrived June 13.

Fort Carson did not deny assistance from any certified local firefighters.

Colorado residents elect their state representatives to ask difficult questions and to represent the people in their districts. Fort Carson officials appreciate the public’s interest in the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site and all the help the installation has received from local, county, state and federal firefighters.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143. After hours or on weekends, please contact the 24-hour Installation Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Friday, June 20, 2008
Release Number: 08-079

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site 'Bridger' Fire 85% contained

June 18, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-079
Press Release
Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site ‘Bridger’ fire 85% contained

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fire officials estimate that the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site Bridger Fire is now 85 percent contained. Nearly 48,000 acres have burned in the wild land fire that has primarily affected the Army’s training land in Southeastern Colorado.

Crews continue to mop up and patrol the contained areas of the fire while working to contain parts of the eastern perimeter. Weather has been favorable the past several days for firefighting, and crews attribute their ability to rapidly contain the fire to those conditions.

The Rocky Mountain Type 2 Incident Management Team has transitioned control of the fire to Fort Carson’s Type 3 team. Col. Eugene Smith, Fort Carson Garrison commander, said he is pleased with the ease of the transition and confident of the team’s ability to complete the containment.

For more information contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at
(719) 526-4143. After hours or on weekends, please contact the 24-hour Emergency Operation Center at 526-5500 and ask for the On-Call Public Affairs Officer.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-077

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

71st Ordnance Group commander relinquishes command

June 16, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-077
Media Opportunity
71st Ordnance Group commander relinquishes command

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Col. Karl E. Reinhard, commander of the 71st Ordnance Group (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), will relinquish command in a ceremony June 18 at 10 a.m. at Manhart Field, Fort Carson.

The unit’s new commander will arrive to Fort Carson in early July. An assumption of command ceremony will be held at that time.

On order, the 71st deploys and conducts operations in support of the combative commanders or other government agencies to counter chemical, biological, radiological/nuclear and explosive and weapons of mass destruction threats.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m., June 17 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-076

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon fire update

June 16, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-076
Press Release
Piñon Canyon fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Firefighters continue to battle the “Bridger Fire” at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado. Officials report that the fire has grown to 45,800 acres due to the addition of containment lines, but is now 55 percent contained.

“Tuesday will be one week since we’ve been fighting this fire and the interagency cooperation has been tremendous. We are glad to see the weather change which should help firefighters continue to contain this fire,” said Col. Eugene Smith, the Fort Carson garrison commander.

Cooler weather, higher relative humidity and a 20 percent chance of precipitation should assist firefighters in their containment efforts.

Approximately 355 personnel representing eight agencies are working the fire. Equipment, to include three aircraft, three water tenders and 19 engines are being used to fight the fire along with seven hot-shot crews.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-075

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon fire update

June 15, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-075
Press Release
Piñon Canyon fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Firefighters continue to battle the “Bridger Fire” at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado. Officials report that the 43,100 acre blaze is now 33 percent contained.

“Local and county fire resources have cooperated well with state, federal and Army resources during the entire incident,“ said C.K. Morey, district forester for La Veta district of the Colorado Forest Service.

Low relative humidity and shifting winds will test fire lines this afternoon. A forecasted increase in humidity and lower temperatures tomorrow should assist firefighters in their containment efforts.

Assets from several interagency fire response teams and the U. S. Army are working the fire. Equipment, to include seven aircraft, three water tenders and 19 engines are being used to fight the fire along with six hot-shot crews.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-074

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon 'Bridger' fire 1% contained

June 14, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-074
Press Release
Piñon Canyon ‘Bridger’ fire 10% contained

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Firefighters continue to battle the blaze that spans approximately 42,000 acres at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado. Officials report that the Bridger Fire is now 10 percent contained.

“With the resources we have fighting the fire today and the forecasted light winds, we hope to make excellent progress,” said Mike Gaylord, operations section chief for the Rocky Mountain Type II Incident Management Team. A cooler air mass is also predicted to move over the fire area on Sunday.

Assets from several interagency fire response teams, the U.S. Army and Colorado National Guard are working the fire. Equipment, to include six helicopters, three water tenders and 12 engines are being used to fight the fire along with five hot-shot crews.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-073

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

42,000 acres burned at Pinon Canyon fire

June 13, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-073
Press Release
42,000 acres burned at Piñon Canyon fire

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Bridger Fire at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado has been held at bay over night and is at approximately 42,000 acres with zero percent reported containment.

At the request of Fort Carson, the Rocky Mountain Type II Incident Management Team Bravo assumed management of the fire at 6 a.m. today under the direction of the Forest Service, Colorado State Forestry and Fort Carson.

There are approximately 260 personnel fighting the fire at this time, though additional resources have been ordered and will continue to arrive throughout the next several days. Crews have been performing structure protection for several facilities on the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site and the Rourke Ranch Complex on the Picket Wire Canyonlands, which is just off the northeast corner of the maneuver site.

Residents in the area will continue to see smoke, some heavy at times, over the next several days as crews work toward containment.

“This is a complex interagency effort due to the extreme burning conditions and all agencies are working together exceptionally well to fight this fire,” said Col. Eugene B. Smith, Fort Carson Garrison Commander.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-072

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

7-158th Aviation Regiment hosts Welcome Home Warrior Citizen ceremony

June 12, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-072

News Release
7-158th Aviation Regiment hosts Welcome Home Warrior Citizen ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The 7-158th Aviation Regiment, a U.S. Army Reserve unit headquartered out of Fort Hood, Texas, will host a Welcome Home Warrior Citizen ceremony Sunday at 10 a.m. at Fort Carson’s Special Events Center.

The Welcome Home Warrior Citizen Program is a Soldier recognition program, established in 2004, to thank Soldiers and Families for their sacrifices in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with Fort Carson Public Affairs by noon June 13.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-069

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon fire update

June 12, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-069
Press Release
Piñon Canyon fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Firefighters from Fort Carson and the U.S. Forestry Service are battling a blaze that spans approximately 20,000 acres at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado.

Currently there has been no damage to structures and no injuries are reported. A medical support element from the 10th Combat Support Hospital and a Mobile Kitchen Team from the 43rd Area Support Group are among the military personnel supporting the efforts of firefighters. CH-47 Chinook helicopters are providing administrative support and two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters are being used to help douse the flames.

The fire started in the Red Rock Canyon Area of Piñon Canyon, and there were no prescribed burns in the area. Fort Carson officials believe it started from a lightning strike.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-070

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon fire update

June 12, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-070
Press Release
Piñon Canyon fire update

The fire has jumped the Purgatoire River and has spread to nearby federal, state and private land to the east of PCMS. Gusting winds, high heat and low relative humidity have hampered efforts to limit the fires course.

Currently there has been no damage to structures and no major injuries are reported. Aviation assets from several interagency fire response teams and the U.S. Army are working the fire. Heavy equipment and nine engines are on the ground along with over 100 firefighters. More firefighters and equipment will be arriving throughout the day.

The fire started in the Red Rock Canyon Area of Piñon Canyon. This fire, along with the earlier fire on Monday, which was extinguished, are believed to have been started by lightning. There were no prescribed burns in the area.

- 30 -

Monday, June 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-071

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson celebrates Army's birthday

June 12, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-071
Media Event
Fort Carson Celebrates Army’s Birthday

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson is celebrating the Army’s 233rd birthday by hosting an barbecue July 13, at the School Age Services building from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Events include relay races with the American Flag, jump rope competitions, and various ball games for the children. After the activities and barbecue, a cake will be cut honoring the Army’s birthday.

This event is open to military families.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 10 a.m., June 13 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Release Number: 08-068

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pinon Canyon fire update

June 11, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-068
Press Release
Piñon Canyon fire update

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Firefighters from Fort Carson and the U.S. Forestry Service are battling a blaze that spans between 2,800 and 3,200 acres at the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site in Southeastern Colorado.

There are more than 50 personnel at Pinon Canyon right now. In addition, the equipment being used to fight the blaze includes four brush trucks, two water tenders and one type-one hand crew from the Forestry Service. There are also two Blackhawk helicopters and a Forestry Service Tanker dousing the fire from the air. One CH-47 Chinook is transporting supplies and personnel from Fort Carson to Piñon Canyon as well.

The fire started in the Red Rock Canyon Area of Piñon Canyon, and there were no prescribed burns in the area. Fort Carson officials believe it started from a lightning strike.

"We are zero percent contained at this point and given the weather, which is hot with low humidity, it's going to be a lot of work to slow down and contain this fire," said Glen Silloway, Fort Carson Fire Chief.

- 30 -

Monday, June 02, 2008
Release Number: 08-064

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warrior Transition Unit hosts change of command

June 2, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-064

Media Advisory
Warrior Transition Unit hosts change of command

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Fort Carson’s Warrior Transition Unit will host a change of command ceremony June 3 at 10 a.m. at Manhart Field.

Lt. Col. Gaylene K. Weber and Sgt. Maj. Bernard Richardson will relinquish command to Lt. Col. Andrew Grantham and Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Bunch. The Warrior Transition Unit
evaluates, treats, returns to duty, and/or administratively processes out of the Army, and refers to the appropriate follow-on health care system, Soldiers with medical conditions.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143 no later than 4 p.m. June 2 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Release Number: 08-063

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Memorial service scheduled for Fort Carson Soldier killed in Iraq

May 27, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-063
Media Opportunity
Memorial service scheduled for Fort Carson Soldier killed in Iraq

FORT CARSON, Colo. — A memorial service for Sgt. First Class Lawrence David Ezell, a 62nd Ordnance Battalion, 71st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group Soldier killed in action in Iraq, is scheduled for 10 a.m., May 29, at Fort Carson’s Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.

The memorial service is rich in military tradition and honors Soldiers with the traditional roll call, a rifle squad salute and the final tribute to a fallen Soldier with the playing of Taps.

Media are reminded that no recording devices or photography are allowed in the chapel during the ceremony but there will be opportunities outside to photograph the rifle salute and playing of Taps and also afterward to photograph and interview Soldiers.

Interested media should R.S.V.P. with the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by 4 p.m., May 28 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Release Number: 08-061

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Soldiers to be Remembered at Global War on Terrorism Memorial Ceremony

May 21, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-061
Media Opportunity
Soldiers to be Remembered at Global War on Terrorism Memorial Ceremony

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The names of 46 Soldiers who lost their lives fighting the Global War on Terrorism will be added to the memorial located in Kit Carson Park May 23 at 10 a.m.

Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general, will be the keynote speaker. Family members of those being honored have been invited to attend.

Annually Fort Carson commemorates those Soldiers from the Mountain Post who have lost their lives fighting the Global War on Terrorism.

Attendees come to Fort Carson’s main gate on Colorado Highway 115, south Academy Boulevard. From there, attendees will be directed to parking that will not require access to Fort Carson. Gate 1 will be closed from 9:55 a.m. to 11 a.m. Traffic on Highway 115 will be detoured during the ceremony.

Media outlets interested in attending must R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143 no later than noon May 22.

- 30 -

Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Release Number: 08-062

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UCCS Holds ROTC Commisssioning Ceremony at Mountain Post

May 21, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-062
Media Opportunity
UCCS Holds ROTC Commissioning Ceremony at Mountain Post

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs’ ROTC program will host a 2008 commissioning ceremony Saturday, May 24, at 10 a.m. at Fort Carson’s Elkhorn Conference Center.

Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson commanding general, will be the guest speaker. Sixteen graduating seniors will be commissioned as 2nd lieutenants at the event.

Media outlets interested in attending must R.S.V.P. to the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office by calling (719) 526-4143 no later than noon May 23 for the meeting time and location.

- 30 -

Friday, May 16, 2008
Release Number: 08-059

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Carson Partially Closes Gate 1 for Construction

May 16, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-059

Public Service Announcement
Fort Carson Partially Closes Gate 1 for Construction

FORT CARSON, Colo. — Beginning Monday, May 19, Fort Carson’s Gate 1 (Nelson Boulevard and Colorado Highway 115) will be partially closed for construction.

This closure is the first step in the installation of an automated access control system called “Mountain Post Express.” Construction is expected to last through Aug. 8.

Motorists should use alternate gates to access the installation and anticipate delays during peak traffic times. During the construction, Gate 1 will only be open to vehicles bearing a Department of Defense decal.

- 30 -

Thursday, May 08, 2008
Release Number: 08-056

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Army Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for GTA

May 8, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-056

Public Service Announcement
Army Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for Grow the Army Actions at Fort Carson, Colo.

FORT CARSON, Colo. — As part of the Grow the Army effort, the U. S. Army intends to prepare an EIS to analyze (1) the environmental and socioeconomic impacts resulting from the decision to station a new Infantry Brigade Combat Team at Fort Carson and (2) Fort Carson’s Butts Army Airfield as a potential location for stationing a Combat Aviation Brigade in the future.

The Proposed Action is the construction of new facilities at Fort Carson to support an IBCT (approximately 3,900 additional Soldiers and their dependents) and the potential stationing of a CAB (approximately 2,800 Soldiers and their dependents). The Proposed Action includes construction or upgrade of live-fire training ranges and an increase in the intensity of maneuver training at Fort Carson and the Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site.

The alternatives to be examined in this EIS may consist of alternative siting locations within Fort Carson for facility/utility construction projects, renovation and use of existing facilities, or a combination of both new construction and use of existing facilities. Under the No Action Alternative, the stationing of a new IBCT and CAB at Fort Carson would not be implemented.

Impacts analyzed will include a wide range of environmental resource areas including, but not limited to, air quality, traffic, noise, water resources, biological resources, cultural resources, socioeconomics, utilities, land use, solid and hazardous materials/waste, and cumulative environmental effects. Additional resources and conditions may be identified as a result of the scoping process initiated by this NOI.

The public is invited to participate in the scoping process which includes several scoping meetings to provide input on the proposed actions and alternatives in the EIS. The public scoping meetings are scheduled as follows:

Trinidad State College
600 Prospect Street
Trinidad, Colorado 81082
May 20, 2008
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Colorado Springs Hotel
2886 S Circle Drive
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906
May 21, 2008
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Otero Junior College
1802 Colorado Avenue
La Junta, Colorado 81050
May 22, 2008
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

After the scope of the EIS has been determined, detailed environmental analysis will be conducted and a Draft EIS will be prepared. The public will also be invited to review and comment on the Draft EIS. These public involvement opportunities will be announced in the local news media. Comments from the public will be considered before any decision is made regarding implementing the proposed action at Fort Carson.

For more information, please contact the Fort Carson Public Affairs Office at (719) 526-4143. Please send any written comments or questions to:
NEPA Coordinator
1638 Elwell Street, Building 6236, Fort Carson, CO 80913-4000
E-mail: pcmsdecamnepa@conus.army.mil or carsdecamnepa@conus.army.mil

- 30 -

Thursday, May 08, 2008
Release Number: 08-057

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Martian Arts Demonstration Set to Celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander Month

May 8, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 08-057

Media Opportunity
Martial Arts Demonstration to Celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

FORT CARSON, Colo. — In celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Fort Carson Equal Opportunity Office is hosting a Martial Arts Demonstration May 9 at the Elkhorn Conference Center at 11:30 a.m.

The guest speaker for the event is the Father of American Tae Kwon Do, Grand Master Jhoon Rhee. Rhee is a world-renowned 10th degree black belt and was the martial arts instructor for renowned celebrities such as Muhammad Ali, Tony Robbins, Jack Valenti and over 300 United States senators. Rhee was inducted into the Tae Kwon Do Hall of Fame in 2007.

The Asian Pacific Heritage Council chose “Leadership, Diversity, Harmony-Gateway to Success” as the 2008 national theme for this years event. The martial arts demonstration will be conducted by the Fountain Valley Martial Arts School and a small food sampling