Last of 3rd Brigade Soldiers Home

Last of 3rd Brigade soldiers home
Fort Benning welcomes back last 67 soldiers from Iraq deployment

BY MICK WALSH

They're all home... finally.

The last group of 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team soldiers, who had stayed behind in Kuwait to ensure the safe return of all the brigade's equipment, arrived at Fort Benning's Lawson Army Airfield Monday afternoon, signaling the end of the unit's third deployment to Iraq since 2003.

No Army brigade has spent more time in Iraq than the 3rd's 41 months.

The homecoming for the 67 soldiers lacked the pizzazz, but certainly not the emotion, of previous arrivals.

When the chartered aircraft carrying the troops arrived about 30 minutes earlier than expected, just a handful of family members and friends waited for them in Freedom Hall, the airport's spacious terminal.

"We can't wait to see him," said William Morgan of Indianola, Wash., who with his wife, Cynthia, awaited the arrival of their son, Capt. Bryan Morgan.

Indianola, a town on Kipsak Peninsula in Puget Sound, west of Seattle, is more than 2,200 miles from Fort Benning.

"It did take us a while to get here," said a laughing Morgan, a Vietnam vet and a retired Department of Defense electrical engineer. "We were pulling a trailer."

So when did the couple start their trip?

"On May 1," they both laughed.

"I told you it took us a while. But we weren't going to miss this," William Morgan added.

Actually, with the brigade leadership team -- commander Col. Wayne Grigsby, deputy commander Lt. Col. Ryan Kuhn and battalion commanders Lt. Col. Jack Marr and Lt. Col. Troy Perry -- on hand, the in-processing procedure was expedited.

The plane landed at 3:50 p.m. and soldiers were reunited with families at 4:35 p.m. Normally, that process takes a full two hours.

"We were in Kuwait about a week," said Capt. Morgan after the reunification with his dad and mom. "That wasn't bad. Except for the fact we were also the first to go over (in March 2007)."

Morgan's parents have been getting their son's house cleaned up and have made sure his truck's in running order.

"And we have a huge root beer float waiting for him," his mother said. "That's the one thing he said he wanted."

They were going to have their first meal together since last fall. "We're headed to Buffalo Wild Wings," said the captain, a member of the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, who spent the last several months attached to the 2nd Brigade of the 2nd Infantry Division.

The latest, and last, group to arrive will be granted a 48-hour pass before starting 10 half-days of reintegration training. Then they'll be off on a block leave of 30 days.

Last, But Certainly Not Least!

Exactly fifteen months, to the day, Nick James finally returns home. As part of the "No Joke" party, Nick had been in Kuwait since mid April. At first it wasn't too bad but at the end, it was a little hard to deal with the fact that almost EVERYBODY else was already home. I think Nick was starting to wonder if he was becoming a permanent citizen of Kuwait!

It was absolutely an awesome feeling when my phone rang yesterday afternoon and when I answered it I heard "Hey Mom..." Our "adopted" son had returned! Our journey has officially ended! Nick called later on in the evening and was definitely enjoying all the luxaries of the USA which included a nice juicy steak at Outback. He was on top of the world! Now that Chris and Nick are both back, Outback should show a drastic rise in income!

I know the James family is enjoying their time with Nick and as we all did, doing a lot of staring. It's not a dream, Bernadette...he's finally home! Welcome Home, Nick!

FINALLY!

Finally!! I got word yesterday that Nick will finally be coming home. It seems like he has been there sooooooooooooo much longer than the rest of the Soldiers but it really hasn't been as long as it seems. Now I understand the meaning of the "No Joke" party. lol

We also got news that Chris will be arriving in San Antonio next week. Things are starting to get back to normal. It is sure nice to know that you can pick up the phone and call or send a text message. It just great knowing that Chris is back in the states and is safe and sound.

I'm very excited that the James family journey is finally coming to an end. My butterflies are back...

Memorial Day – A date for us to remember

By Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch

Today we remember the heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Many were our friends. They stood next to us in formation, they slept in our tents, they drove in our convoys, and they walked patrols with us. We mourn their loss.

I start every day in prayer and lay out cards with photos of the 152 Dog Face Soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice under my command in either Task Force Marne or 3ID. I study their pictures and think about the Families they left behind. I ask myself two questions: Did we do everything we could to preclude this from happening? Was it worth it?

You are the very best Soldiers in our Nation’s history. You are properly equipped, well trained, and most importantly, well led. Five years into this war, leaders are combat tested and thoroughly analyze the risks when they place Soldiers on the battlefield.

The death of our Soldiers creates an irreplaceable void for their Families, but in the larger picture, their tragic loss is making a difference. We are fighting terrorism here so that we do not have to fight it at home, and you are truly having an effect on the insurgency.

When the 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters arrived last March, attacks average 25 per day – now they average less than two a day. You have transitioned from security operations to stability operations, and are making a difference in the lives of the Iraqi people every single day. I could not be more proud or more humbled to serve alongside of you.

The loss of so many Dog Face Soldiers is heartbreaking. CSM Andrews and I have been to the majority of the memo- rial services.

During the course of the memorial service, each of us grieves in his own way. But afterwards, we put on our body armor and Soldier on. That’s the true definition of a hero. We continue to take the fight to the enemy so we do not lose more Soldiers, and we will not give up any of the ground for which our brothers in arms gave their lives.

This Memorial Day we remember the lives of those who made the ultimate price, but we do not forget them. We continue to fight on so their sacrifice is not made in vain.

Rock of the Marne!

Task Force Marne Transformation Book

Task Force Marne Transformation Book

"Before" and "After" pictures, chronicling the transformation of Task Force Marne's area of responsibility, Multi-National Division - Center.

Giving Thanks!

The title of yesterday's sermon was "Thanksgiving: Giving God Thanks" and was based on Psalms 138: 1-3. Wow, how appropriate! When Chris deployed, I was devastated and wasn't sure if and how I was going to be able to cope. Once I realized that I had to turn it over to God, it became a lot easier.

So many times, we try to take on the world and all its problems by ourselves. We make life much hard than it was intended to be. We forget that God is there to help us, all we have to do is ask.

When our problems are solved or go away, many times we forget to give thanks...we just take it for granted. I survived Chris deployment because God was with us and for that I give thanks.

I have so much to be thankful for! Thanks be to God, for being by Chris' side and returning him home safely!

We have one more to go...Nick! Then we can celebrate!

Grigsby Arrives Home To Fort Benning

Two hundred and thirty soldiers of the 3rd Brigade are now home. Among them, the brigade’s commander, Colonel Wayne Grigsby.

The plane full of soldiers arrived on a breezy afternoon at Fort Benning. Something much different than the deserts they are used to.

“The feeling… it doesn’t get, it just gets better each time you come home you’re just so happy that you made it home,” Grigsby said.

Grigsby is no stranger to deployments. He says it’s been tough over the years, but thanks his wife Cynthia for all of her help during the tough times.

“It’s just like we were 18 years old again. I met her in Panama on a blind date and gave her a kiss we married 4 months later and it will be just the same way. She’s my hero and I love that woman to death,” he said.

The Sledgehammer soldiers followed their leader into the limelight, while Grigsby’s family waited to be re-united. Once they were together again, he had the chance to hold his new grandson.

“He is in uniform so he’s ready to grow so I have to introduce myself to him. Whenever that is we’ll be good,” he said

Grigsby says the majority of the brigade is now back home with their families, but there are more flights coming home, so stay tuned, because more Sledgehammer soldiers will soon return.

Home At Last and Looking Good

Our first glimpse of Chris on American soil...well, American concrete! He looks great! It's so nice to see his big ole happy smile! I'm not sure what all he had planned for his 48 hours, but I know it is going to be something very special for Patricia. He has alway been great at planning and doing special things. I hope he is having the time of his life...he certainly deserves it! We can hardly wait to see him and give him a hug and kiss. Maybe then, I will be able to realize that this isn't a dream, he really is back home!

Iron Brigade takes command at FOB Hammer

Colonel Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., commander of 3rd HBCT, 3rd Inf. Div., and Command Sgt. Maj. James Pearson, of 3rd HBCT, case their unit's colors during a transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Hammer May 15. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Justin Snyder)

By Spc. Justin Snyder, 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div., PAO

Colonel Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., commander of 3rd HBCT, 3rd Inf. Div., and Command Sgt. Maj. James Pearson, of 3rd HBCT, case their unit's colors during a transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Hammer May 15. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Justin Snyder)
FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq - Authority in the Mada'in Qada area of Iraq transferred from the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, here May 15.

"Like the Hammer Brigade, the Iron Brigade will be at your side to continue to support and assist you," said 2nd BCT commander, Col. Pat White, to Iraqis in attendance. "We are honored to be a part of your history."

The ceremony began with the playing of both the United States and Iraqi national anthems. Following the anthems, Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, commanding general of Multi-National Division - Center, addressed the crowd, which included 2nd BCT Soldiers, 3rd HBCT Soldiers and many local Iraqi leaders and citizens.

Lynch, a native of Hamilton, Ohio, began by thanking everyone for coming out and supporting the Hammer and Iron Brigades. He told the crowd that his Soldiers could not have been successful alone and that the partnerships they developed with the Iraqi Army and National Police were a large part of their success.

"Everyone did this together, including the courageous people of the Mada'in Qada," Lynch said. "We are excited about what the future holds for you as Col. Pat White and the [Iron] Brigade Combat Team takes command. They will take things to the next level in the Mada'in Qada."

He then introduced Col. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., 3rd HBCT commander, and congratulated him on a job well done.

"Wayne, you did an outstanding job and your Soldiers were lucky to have served with you," Lynch said. "Nothing was too great for you to accomplish and you accomplished it all. The people of the Mada'in Qada will miss you greatly."

Grigsby, a native of Prince George's County, Md., took the microphone and thanked the Iraqis for accepting him and his Soldiers as their neighbors.

When the Hammer Soldiers arrived in the Mada'in Qada 15 months ago, the region was strangled by Shia and Sunni extremist influences. The markets were vacant, women and children could not walk safely in the streets and irrigation canals were dry, leaving the area sparse of drinking water.

The Hammer Soldiers went to work alongside the IA, NP and Sons of Iraq, providing security, which led to the detaining of more than 500 suspected criminals, 47 of them being high-value targets. This allowed them to help revitalize markets, build schools and improve water distribution facilities, once again returning glory to the people of the Mada'in Qada.

On this celebratory day, Grigsby said he was proud to be a part of the rebuilding, and it was because of the bold citizens of Iraq that they were able to come so far.

"All things have changed in the Mada'in Qada and we have transformed," Grigsby said. "In our time here, the bold citizens have stepped forward. Because of you, the Mada'in Qada is a better place for future generations."

Grigsby promised more improvements would come as the Iron Brigade took over command in the qada.

"The Sledgehammer Brigade is leaving, but the mission will continue on," Grigsby said. "Col. White and the great Iron Brigade will take on this task and continue to make the Mada'in Qada even better than it stands today."

Grigsby left the podium and cased the colors of the 3rd HBCT, signifying the brigade's mission completed, turning over command to the 2nd BCT.

White, from Apple Valley, Ca., followed by uncasing the Iron Brigade's colors, signifying the transfer of authority as official. The Iron Brigade stands strong and ready to perform full spectrum operations in the Mada'in Qada.

White thanked the 3rd HBCT for a great transition and said that there is nothing more important than what the Army is doing in Iraq. He said the Iron Brigade would continue to support and assist the people of Iraq, but it would involve their help.

"As the transition moves forward, there remains one constant, to free citizens in this Mada'in Qada," White said. "It is up to you to provide the leadership, security and economic growth required to improve this Mada'in one day at a time."

Lynch believes this transition holds much larger meaning than just a change of command, one that will stay with the Iraqi people forever.

"We are doing this for our children and your children," Lynch said. "We are truly building a new Iraq together."

The 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div., from Baumholder, Germany, has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since April in the Mada'in Qada in southeastern Baghdad Province.

Welcome Home Soldier

Welcome Home Soldier

Welcome home soldier
We finally get to say
You just don't know how good it is
To finally see your face.

Welcome home son
We've missed your more each day
Please let our boy come home safe and soon
is what we'd often pray.

Welcome home brother
You've filled our hearts with pride
The love we have for you right now
is something we just can't hide.

Welcome home soldier,
The journey's been tough and long
But you finally made it back to us,
back home where you belong.

By Andrea Senter

Proud Member of the Army 3rd ID

I was called to duty in a country far across the sea
To stand the wall against terrorism, so all can be free

I deal with the unknown, hot days and cold night
Living in the darkness, far from all city lights

I stand in the desert, surrounded by sand
Gazing over the horizon, ready to fight in a foreign land

Why am I here, is the question asked of me
To protect any land that wishes for democracy

I live to serve my country in its time of need
A prayer for protection and guidance is my only plea

I am no one special, just a commoner's son
So I joined the U.S. Army, became an "Army of One"

I serve in a proud unit that stands out above the rest
A unit with courage, pride and history which makes it the best

Just look at my left shoulder and you shall see
I am a proud member of the Army 3rd ID!

by 1st Sgt. Jay S.
148th Engineer Detachment
Camp New York, Kuwait

Grigsby, 250 Troops Arrive at Lawson

Grigsby, 250 troops arrive at Lawson
Entire brigade should be home by month's end

BY MICK WALSH

Hammer Six is home.

And so are more than 250 of his fellow 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team soldiers.

Brigade Commander Col. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., known to the troops as Hammer Six, and Command Sgt. Maj. James Pearson, were among those who arrived at Fort Benning's Lawson Army Airfield Friday night, concluding a 15-month deployment.

"We're happy to be back," Grigsby said on the airport tarmac. "I love Fort Benning."

He and Pearson were the first off the plane, which left Kuwait earlier in the day.

Hundreds of family members waited inside Freedom Hall, the airport terminal, to greet the soldiers. Also waiting were several brigade soldiers who arrived back at Fort Benning earlier in the week.

"It's so good to see all those smiling faces," said Grace Wilson, who watched on a huge TV screen as the soldiers, still carrying their weapons, debarked the plane. She had come to welcome home her nephew, a member of the 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment.

Soldiers first had to clear customs, turn in their equipment, in-process and hear a safety message before finally reuniting with loved ones and friends. That wait usually lasts about two hours.

Grigsby said several more flights will be leaving Kuwait over the next week. The entire brigade -- 3,800 soldiers -- should be home by month's end.

Maj. Gen. Walt Wojdakowski, the post commander, was on hand to welcome the brigade soldiers home.

Hey Mom

It's official! Chris has landed and is on American soil. We got a call at about 8:15 this evening. "Hey, Mom!"...music to my ears! It was awesome. He had a good flight, just long. They landed around 7:15 Georgia time and had already been released when he called so they were going to eat.

I can only imagine how much he is going to enjoy eating over the next few weeks. I am trying to figure out how to get a Taco Cabana bean and cheese burrito to him next week when we fly out to see him. I'll bet I can figure out something!!! We can hardly wait to see him and give him a big ole hug!

Well, I can sleep a little easier tonight knowing that Chris is safe and sound. He arrived on the same flight as Capt. McGrue. Now we've just got to get Nick home safely and we can all go back to our normal lives before deployment. I definitely think my life has changed as a result of the deployment. I have learned to appreciate life a lot more and will NEVER take anything for granted again!

Welcome home guys and thank you for serving your country!

Even The Lizards Know...

When Chris first deployed, we put up our beautiful yellow bow on our oak tree. Within a couple of days, it had been occupied by a family of lizards. Every day as we would drive into the driveway, we would look to see if the lizards were out. We would often go up to the bow and say Bub, are you home (that's our nickname for Chris and what we named the lizards). Over the past fourteen months, the lizards have been our connection...it has sort of been like Chris has been checking on us. I know it might sound a little strange to some people but when you have a child off at war, some of the most bizarre things make a big difference.

This morning, as I went out to take a picture of the Welcome Home banner, I went to check on our lizard family. Two of them were poking their heads out...almost as if they were saying..."what's going on?" I had to chuckle and say...well guys it's time to start looking for a new home...the real Bub is coming home and his ribbon will come down.

Ready and Waiting!

Airborne Dad asked to see a picture of our welcome banner...well, here it is. I have it on the front of my house for the whole world to see. It will remain there until Chris comes home to San Antonio.

Thank You, Spurs!

As most of you know, Chris is a huge Spurs fan. Unfortunately, the Spurs have had a difficult time with this series. Since the beginning of the season, we have hoped and prayed that the Spurs could at least make it far enough in the playoffs that Chris could see at least a game. Well, our wish has come true! With the Spurs win last night, they will take on New Orleans in game 7 Monday night. It is going to be a tough game and the odds are against the Spurs but that's okay...win or lose, Chris will be watching the game ON AMERICAN SOIL!

One Step Closer To Home

It's slowly becoming a reality. Last night we got a call from Chris..."hey Mom...I'm one step closer to home". It's not been the smoothest journey so far but at least it's a journey. There have been a few hiccups along the way but he didn't seem to mind. He had not slept in 24 hours but you certainly couldn't tell it by talking to him. He was on top of the world and so ready to be home.

As for me, it seems like my emotions are on overdrive. I can't believe it's almost a reality! Today my welcome home sign will go up and remain there until Chris actually returns to San Antonio. I want the whole world to know...he's almost home!

Col. Grigsby Briefs The Media

Col. Grigsby briefs the media on the accomplishments of his unit while being deployed. He then answers questions from the media. Part 1 of 2.

Video: Col. Grigsby Part 1

Video: Col. Grigsby Part 2

Command Change Nears Completion

Command change nears completion
Col. Grigsby turns over keys to FOB Hammer
BY MICK WALSH

If all went as planned at this morning's transfer of authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Hammer, the last segment of 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team soldiers has left Iraq and will soon be heading back to Fort Benning.

"We'll be jumping on a helicopter as soon as the ceremony concludes," brigade commander Col. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr. said Wednesday. "We could be at home as soon as this weekend."

Grigsby has already turned over the keys to Hammer to Col. Pete White, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Armored Division.

"We've been riding in the right-hand seat the past few days," Grigsby said. "They now own the ground. I'm certain they'll do a great job."

Five of the 3rd Brigade's six battalions have already turned over the reins to their successors; the sixth was to do so immediately before the total transfer of authority.

"We're down to 38 soldiers," said Grigsby, who packed his gear Tuesday night in preparation for his departure today. He had time earlier Wednesday to brief Pentagon reporters during a conference call.

"I told them the story of my soldiers and the work they've accomplished during the past 15 months," he said.

Grigsby said he would spend his remaining hours sending out his final set of e-mails to commanders within the 3rd Infantry Division.

Then it's off to Kuwait and the long ride home.

No Army brigade has spent as many months deployed to Iraq as the 3rd, which is completing its third deployment since Iraqi Freedom I began in March 2003.

Its main responsibility this time was to prevent accelerants from coming into Baghdad through its main theater of operation, the Mada'in Qada.

"I'd say we were very successful doing that; in addition, we helped stop the criminals that were harming the good people here," he said.

The Hammer Brigade captured 43 division-level and brigade-level HVIs, or High-Value Individuals, and killed more than 160 enemy fighters.

"We have been very effective along all lines of operations," Grigsby said.

Two planeloads of soldiers are expected to arrive at Lawson Army Airfield today, one in the morning and the other in mid-afternoon. Two more flights are expected on Friday evening.

Only a handful of the brigade team will remain in Kuwait until later in the month, ensuring that all equipment is packed and shipped back to Benning.

Windmills in Brigade's Legacy

Windmills in brigade's legacy
Benning soldiers give water with security to Iraqis
BY MICK WALSH

While two more flights carrying redeploying soldiers are expected to arrive at Fort Benning today, those remaining in Iraq prepare for today's transfer of authority ceremony.

The 1st Armored Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, based in Baumholder, Germany, officially will take over operations in the Mada'in Qada area from Benning's 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team.

The 3rd, under the command of Col. Wayne W. Grigsby Jr., has been deployed to Iraq since March 2007. No U.S. Army brigade has spent more time in Iraq than the 3rd.

During their final days at Forward Operating Base Hammer, where Thursday's ceremony will take place, soldiers from the 3rd Brigade joined with their replacements to visit the towns of al-Zatir and Hollandia.

Their objective: To check on progress made on windmills over the past eight months.

Yes, windmills, which provide those communities water for irrigation and drinking.

"These people should be very proud of what they have done here," said Col. Ryan J. Kuhn, the 3rd Brigade's deputy commander. "They have done something that no other Iraqi ever has. History is being made in this village."

Kuhn was part of the planning and joined the visits Monday. He said the Iraqi contractors have made significant progress on the windmills.

"These people have done a great job," Kuhn said. "Now, when children come walking by on their way home from school, they will be able to drink clean water."

Kuhn said they also provide the security to enjoy it.

"Water is expensive for these people," he said. "We are defeating the insurgents by not allowing them to control the prices of water and by providing free water."

Lt. Col. Matthew F. McKenna of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team will take over the windmill project when the 3rd leaves Iraq.

"We want to get the director general for water in Iraq to look at these windmills," McKenna said. "Hopefully they like the idea and we can expand the windmill program through the Government of Iraq."