The Dragoon

Newsletter
Volume 2, Issue 6 July 2013

2d Cavalry Regiment

Col D.A. Sims, 77th Colonel of the Regiment

Regimental Command Sgt. Maj. Wilbert E. Engram Jr.

U.S. Army Troops with Alpha Troop, Regimental Support Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, conduct safety checks and mount weapons on trucks before convoy operations at night July 30, 2013 at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. The troops provided security during a resupply mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Joshua Edwards)

Highlights in 2d Cavalry History

Contents
Calendar Events 2 Dragoon TOA 1st Squadron 2nd Squadron 3rd Squadron 4th Squadron Fires RSS 3 5 6 7 8 9 10

01 July 1863 Gettysburg, Pa. The 2d U.S. Cavalry fought against an everincreasing number of Confederates and finally moved the line back about 200 yards. On the evening of July 2 the 2d Cavalry was on picket duty on the left front of the Army. By the 3rd of July, they moved to the right of the Gettysburg road and formed part of the Unions left side near Round Top Mountain. Soon after entering the line, the 2d Cavalry was checked by heavy enemy fire. On the 4th of July, Gen. Lees army was in full retreat towards Williamsport, Md, with the Union cavalry (2d U.S. Cav) in hot pursuit. 07 July 1876 The 2d Cavalry Regiment left Big Horn Mountains, Mont. camp the afternoon of July 6, 1876, the party marched cautiously throughout the night, arriving in the vicinity of the Little Big Horn. A scout discovered a large war party of Sioux led by White Antelope. As the troops were outnumbered, it was decided to try to elude them. Late in the afternoon, when it was thought they had eluded the savages, they were fired upon from the nearby woods. Galloping for the nearest cover, they dismounted in the edge of a grove of trees. Lt. Sibley decided to abandon the horses and attempt to escape through the mountains. Taking with them the extra ammunition from the saddle bags, the little party moved out single file
www.2cr.army.mil www.flickr.com/photos/dragoons/2scr

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History Highlights cont...

through the rocks and trees. They soon crossed the Tongue River and ascended a mountain so steep, no mounted men could follow them. For two nights and days the band struggled with no food to eat. They discovered several parties of Indians but always eluded them. On July 9, they saw two horses grazing some distance away and knew they belonged to cavalrymen. It was a group of men from their own regiment out hunting. They had escaped without the loss of a man due to the courage of Lt. Sibley and the ingenuity of the scouts. 11 July 1850 Near Laredo, Texas. Pursuant to orders from the department headquarters at San Antonio, Capt. Hardee organized an expedition against the Indians in July. He directed Capt. Oakes with G Company to move down the left bank of the Frio River, Capt. Wallace with his company of Texas volunteers, to move down the right bank of the Nueces, with Company C, he scoured the country between the two rivers. Company G came upon a camp of a small party of Indians, killed two and captured 21 horses and all of the equipment.

Become a member of the 2d Cavalry Association - For more information, visit our website at: http://www.dragoons.org/

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Dragoon TOA
2 CR takes lead in Southern Afghanistan
Left: U.S. Army Col. D.A. Sims (left), commander of Combined Task Force Dragoon (2d Cavalry Regiment), and Command Sgt. Maj. Wilbert E. Engram, senior enlisted advisor for the task force, uncase the task force's colors during a transfer-of-authority ceremony July 25, 2013 at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. The ceremony formally marked CTF Dragoon's assumption of authority over operations in Regional Command South in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Joshua Edwards)

Story and photos by SPC Joshua Edwards

dvise and assist operations are now in full swing as the Troops of Combined Task Force Dragoon (2nd Cavalry Regiment) assumed their role in helping the security forces of Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

tional Security Forces, known as the ANSF, in becoming self-sufficient during their day-to-day security operations to stabilize and legitimize the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. With the regiment's Security Force Advisory and Assistance Teams fully trained and equipped to provide help where needed, the ANSF will take the lead The Regiment conducted a transfer of in securing its country and liberating its authority ceremony, or TOA, July 25, 2013 people from hostile forces. at Kandahar Airfield. This isn't the first time the Dragoons The ceremony marked the Dragoons' have occupied the same area of operations formal assumption of authority for opera- as CTF 4-2. The progress CTF 4-2 has tions from Combined Task Force 4-2 (4th made throughout their deployment is asStryker Brigade Combat Team), 2nd Infan- sured to be carried on as the Dragoons take try Division, Regional Command-South, the lead. that redeployed back to the United States. As the tour progresses, CTF Dragoon will "What's interesting about this ceremony be responsible for assisting Afghan Nais that this isn't the first time these two

units were ever on the same battlefield," said Maj. Gen. Paul LaCamera, Regional Command-South commanding general. "The Raider Brigade was created out of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in 2006, and share the same heritage. The strong Afghan relationships formed over the past year with the Raider Brigade will not stop with their departure, and the Dragoons will carry on as history demonstrates." Once again, the Dragoons have come to help the people of Afghanistan and assist security forces in order to help improve the country's capacity to govern itself. The advances 2nd Cavalry Regiment has helped coalition forces make have been sustained and improved over the past years.

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Dragoon TOA Cont...

Left: U.S. Army Troops with Combined Task Force 4-2, (4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division) color guard, and Troops with Combined Task Force Dragoon (2d Cavalry Regiment) color guard, stand at the position of attention during a transfer-of-authority ceremony July 25, 2013 at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. The Ceremony formally marked the CTF Dragoon's assumption of authority over operations being conducted in Regional Command South in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"Two years ago, the regiment's colors were cased in Zabul Province after service throughout all of RC-South," said Col. D.A. Sims, commander of CTF Dragoon. "Dragoons of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment served side by side with their Afghan partners to make life better for the average Afghan through enhanced security, greater development and increased government. As we uncase the colors on Afghan soil once again, I can say with great certainty that there is great progress in all these areas."

ance of Afghanistan," said Getchell. "I am sincerely humbled by the sacrifice extended, in both blood and treasure, from all those represented here today by members of the Afghan security forces and coalition. I look forward to reading the chapter of history this disciplined, confident, competent and storied team of teams will write over the coming months."

ently rated battalion in Afghanistan. They assisted security forces in all corners of Kandahar Province, representing their legacy dating back to 1836. The enemy is in an unfair fight against Afghan National Security Forces. The national forces are strong. They are better equipped and better trained. It is an honor to be among them as friends and brothers in arms." The Dragoons arrived at RC-South willing and ready to advise and assist the ANSF to overcome any and all enemies the region might have, who wish to create instability. "We arrive in southern Afghanistan with a renewed dedication to the Afghan people and with a sense of responsibility to those members of the coalition and Afghan security forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice," said Sims.

The last time 2nd Cavalry Regiment served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, much progress was made, and a foundation was laid for the Afghan people. Ever since then, a foothold has been occuCol. Michael A. Getchell, commander of pied by the ANSF against the local eneCTF 4-2, expressed his gratitude for the mies known as the Taliban. service of, not only the Dragoons, but the ANSF as well. "The Dragoons have returned to southern Afghanistan after their departure in May of "I am honored to stand among this mass 2011," said LaCamera. "The last time they group of incredibly brave leaders who are were here, they saw an Afghan National fully invested in the security and governArmy battalion become the first independ-

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War Eagle Update

U.S. Army Sgt. James Burchill with Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, looks over his area of operations as part of his duties as sergeant of the guard July 20, 2013 at Zangabad, Afghanistan. The Squadron has recently assumed responsibility for operations in the area in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Joshua Edwards)

uly has been an eventful month for the War Eagles. Following an aggressive train-up and a hard-earned leave period, the War Eagles deployed as a part of Combined Task Force Dragoon, 2d Cavalry Regiment to Panjwai (pronounced panj-way) district of southern Afghanistan. The War Eagles deployment took them through Manas Air Base in Kyrgyzstan, to Kandahar Airfield in southern Afghanistan and finally to Panjwai. While at Manas and KAF, the War Eagles continued their training to enhance their skills and prepare them for the mission. Their discipline and fitness, instilled prior to deployment, have carried them through while transitioning from the temperate climate of Bavaria to the blistering 110 degree heat of the Horn of Panjwai. This deployment is reminiscent to that of the 2010 campaign that took the War Eagles to a similar area in southern Afghanistan. We would like to congratulate a few War Eagles on their recent promotions. Just

prior to the main bodies deploying, Staff Sgt. Edison Platt and Staff Sgt. Gualberto Ortiz were promoted Sgt. 1st Class. Their promotions show how much the Army values their skills and trusts their abilities. Additionally, Lieutenants Daniel Bishop and Aaron Smith were recently promoted to 1st Lt. Upon arriving to Afghanistan, the War Eagles moved to the Panjwai district of southern Afghanistan to conduct relief in place operations with the 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment Manchus, of 4th Brigade 2nd Infantry Division. This process is termed a Relief In Place and ensures that the incoming unit is knowledgeable of the assumed area and ready to continue the mission. Although time spent with the Manchus passed quickly, their professionalism, discipline and dedication made the RIP a success. The War Eagles who deployed early on the 1st and 2nd flights were key to this success. The official transfer of authority from the Manchus to the War Eagles occurred on July 20, with a small ceremony at Forward Operating Base Zangabad. The

War Eagles unfurled the squadron colors symbolizing the assumption of responsibility. The War Eagles now stand poised and ready to continue the mission to support the efforts and increase the capabilities of the Afghan National Security Forces and assist in keeping Afghanistan independent, free and secure. The War Eagles have already received several shipments of mail. The Soldiers truly appreciate the support from back home. Keep the packages coming, but remember not to send prohibited items. The War Eagle Facebook page is up and running, and has the first official posts on the deployment. Visit our page to see the War Eagles! Share, or post a comment, but remember to keep comments professional. Until the next newsletter Toujours Prt Always Ready! Lt. Col. Phillip K. Gage War Eagle 6 Command Sgt. Maj. Martin S. Celestine War Eagle 7

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Cougar Update

Soldiers from Fox Troop conducting vehicle recovery during Cougar Stakes.

fter more than two years of preparation to conduct oversees contingency operations, the time has come for the Cougars to demonstrate their professionalism and expertise as part of one of the last large unit deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. As we continued to train at Rose Barracks for the challenges ahead, several teams arrived in Afghanistan and started their work. Advance elements will continue to move forward this month while those who are set to deploy a little later improve their skill sets with air-assault training. The remaining deploying Cougars will move forward while the Dragoon Ready Reserve (DR2) trains to maintain its ready posture and builds on the Cougars relations with its partners in the German army. During the past month, we have shown the flexibility of our organization as we moved teams forward to Afghanistan, prepared for follow-on movements of the re-

maining deploying and continued to refine Combat skills. The Cougars said Auf Wiedersehen (until I see you again) to two teams that moved forward to advise Afghan National Security Forces, which will allow for the eventual transition of most U.S. Forces out of Afghanistan. Back in garrison, we refined our combat skills at Cougar Stakes, a set of round-robin events that over two week trained and tested our proficiency in performing 15 essential combat tasks. I can say with certainty that we are trained to keep ourselves and our teammates safe throughout the deployment. Next, we took advantage of an opportunity to have some fun and celebrate with a partnered German community at the Sorghofer Kirwa, the village of Sorghofs annual festival to commemorate its founding. This year was very special for the community, since it was 75 years since it began as a result of Germans displaced during an expansion of the Grafenwoehr Training Area. In August, we will continue to move

Troopers forward to Afghanistan while simultaneously training the Troopers remaining in garrison a little longer. This time off from training offers Cougars additional time to spend with our loved ones and take care of any personal business. Next, with support from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, we will make movement by combat aviation platforms throughout the GTA. Well also hold the Cougar Prowl, a 12-mile foot march that will demonstrate our physical stamina and mental toughness to succeed in the weather and terrain of southern Afghanistan. With the completion of Cougar Stakes, our Troopers and their families can take comfort in knowing that they have the skills necessary for success in combat and staying safe while deployed. With more than two years of preparation complete, we are excited to be one of the last units of its kind in Afghanistan and to cement the success of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Wolfpack Update

Soldiers with 3rd Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment conduct small arms training in preparation for their deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

d Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment, Task Force Wolfpack has successfully completed its preparations for deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. As the final squadron from 2 CR, Dragoons, to deploy, the Wolfpack will return to the same area of Afghanistan it served in on its last deployment in 20102011 the Maiwand district.

18.36-mile ruck march. Designed with the Regiments 1836 birth date in mind, the route for this ruck march took all deploying members of the Wolfpack through the Other events that occurred during this towns of Sulzbach-Rosenberg, Hahnbach, training cycle include specialty training for and Vilseck in a scenic, yet demanding, specific troops and squadron-level training. cross-country foot march under tactical For example, Killer Troop planned and conditions. The standard for this ruck conducted a demolition range in which march was clear: all deploying Soldiers their junior Soldiers were able to gain pro- would complete the march and they did. ficiency in the use of explosives and hand After participating in the Regimental grenades while also conducting M4 CarAlthough the next month will see the color casing ceremony at the end of June bine qualification for their attached field Wolfpack moving to their designated area the Wolfpack began an aggressive 30-day artillery platoon. of operation in Afghanistan, the training training cycle designed to ensure that all will not stop. Specialized drivers training, personnel deploying would have the utAt Squadron level, all Troops sent their counter-improvised explosive device trainmost proficiency in a number of critical best drivers to become qualified on speing and a whole range of other unique skills. The flagship training event during cialized pieces of equipment that are not classes await the members of the Wolfpack this cycle was the Guardian Angel Trainorganic to a cavalry squadron. as they enter Afghanistan. ing Program where approximately 70 perAmong others, these systems included sonnel completed an exhausting two-week the D7 Bulldozer and the Rough Terrain After all, the strength of the pack relies course designed to produce highlyContainer Handling System equipment that on the strength of the wolf and the wolf qualified M9 Pistol and M4 Carbine exis vital to the continuing transition equipmust train to remain strong. perts. This training, which was completely ment out of Afghanistan. organized, designed and run by a platoon WOLFPACK! from Lightning Troop, produced a cadre of The capstone event during this rigorous squadron-level Guardian Angels, distraining cycle was, without a doubt, the

creet security personnel who act as the bodyguards for members of Wolfpack Security Force Assistance Advisory Teams.

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Saber Update

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Christopher L. Budihas (middle), commander of 4th Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, and Command Sgt. Maj. Robert L. Ochsner, senior enlisted advisor for the squadron, uncase the squadron colors during a transfer-of-authority ceremony July 24, 2013 at Forward Operating Base Lindsay, Afghanistan. The ceremony formally marked the squadron's assumption of responsibility of operations in the area in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Joshua Edwards)

uch like the rest of the 2d Cavalry Regiment, 4th Squadron, Task Force Saber has been very busy with deploying and preparing troops and equipment to accomplish the mission in Afghanistan. The Soldiers and Noncommissioned Officers of TF Saber are doing an outstanding job supporting the overall mission, not only for TF Saber, but 2d Cavalry Regiment and International Security Assistance Force.

parties who left in June, July 8 was first big push of Sabers. After they travelled through Manas and Kandahar, theyve arrived at their final destination and have assumed responsibility for their sectors. After only a few weeks, the Sabers have already demonstrated the resolve and professionalism needed to help the Afghan National Security Forces assume responsibility and take control.

partnered Iftar, or breaking the fast, dinner with local Afghan village elders to promote partnership and trust during the month of Ramadan. As the remaining Soldiers from TF Viking depart for re-deployment, the Sabers assume the responsibility of upholding the high standards for the deployment. The Soldiers of TF Saber will continue to prepare for any mission given and will also continue to train on tasks that will allow us to be a success. Our Soldiers will also enjoy time, when available, to call or contact their families. The facilities at Fob Lindsey are top-notch and we enjoy a robust dining facility, We will ensure they do enough physical fitness training so they dont come back out of shape with a large appetite! Hope all is well back in Germany!

Headquarters and Headquarters, Nemesis, Outlaw, Palehorse, and Ghost Troops, As TF Saber departed from Vilseck, Ger- are working on Forward Operating Base many and arrived in Kandahar, AfghaniLindsey in Kandahar Province, while Costan, it has been a long road leading to manche Troop is working out of KAF. The Security Forces Assistance and Advisory now. Teams have begun the link up and advising The Troops are in their sectors and the roles with their respective Afghan counterrelief in place and transfer of authority is parts. complete. The initial push for the Sabers to come to Afghanistan was at the beginning Early in the relief in place and transfer of of July 2013. Aside from the 1st and 2nd authority process, TF Saber conducted a

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Artillery Hell Update

Field Artillery Squadron soldiers transports Afghan civilian during Entry Control Point training operations.

ith the deployment officially started, the Field Artillery Squadron watched the first of its soldiers depart the first week of July. As the rest of the squadron wait on their dates to arrive, the Squadron continues to prepare as it did by focusing on the mission, team building while not losing sight of family. Only a few weeks before the squadron is 100 percent deployed, the FA Squadron used the month of July to fine tune section, team and individual skills. Among these individual skills were individual weapons training such as M4 carbine, M249 and the M240. The squadron also conducted Combat Life Saver certification training where individual soldiers learned important lifesaving skills crucial to the upcoming mission. The FA Squadron conducted counter improvised explosive devices training where platoons learned intricate details about how IEDs work, how they are made, capabilities and what they look like. Soldiers were also taught how to utilize this

information along with the intelligence of historic activity to plan successful missions. Platoons were then taught the proper techniques to discover and react to an IED.

The squadron is scheduled to conduct a senior leader field leadership reaction course. This course includes 11 individual stations which consist of obstacles for which specific materials are provided to be Individually the batteries conducted their used to complete a given task within 15 own training. Hell Raiser Battery conminutes. This course is designed to producted urban operations training where mote collaboration, team building, creativthey learned proper urban maneuver tech- ity and innovation. On Aug. 5 the squadron niques while Archer Battery conducted a will conduct a spur ride where soldiers will team live-fire exercise and combat out post have an opportunity to earn their spurs. defense which consists of properly manning and operating entry control points, The spur ride has been described as 24 manning towers, escalation of force, vehi- hours of hell where soldiers in teams complete physical and mentally challenging cle searching and civilian interaction. tasks for which the end reward is the covBull Dog Battery conducted Squad Tac- eted silver spurs. tical Exercises and Mine Hound ground penetrating radar training while Cobra On Aug. 7 the squadron will conduct an Battery conducted base defense along with spirit-de-corps run where soldiers will be drivers training where soldiers were famil- able to wear jerseys of their favorite footiarized on operating procedures of the ball team. The squadron will also start MATV including how to drive, conduct half-day schedules as it encourages family preventive maintenance checks and sertime before the deployment while also vices, beginning level maintenance and remaining TOUJOURS PRET! emergency and roll over procedures. Moving forward the FA Squadron will focus mainly on team building and family.

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Muleskinner Update

Spc. Farron Wellborn and SPC Mathias Jager of Engineer Troop, Regimental Support Squadron get hands on experience with the CROWs II system.

ask Force (TF) Muleskinner has hit the ground running since arriving in country last month. In preparation for their deployment, task Force Muleskinner has added two new Troops to their organization last spring, the Regimental Headquarters and Headquarters Troop (Vipers) and the Engineer Troop (Sappers), giving the Task Force a combined total of seven troops conducting operations in both Germany and Afghanistan. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of both the incoming and outgoing Soldiers over the last couple of weeks, the forward element completed a successful relief in place with the 702nd Brigade Support Battalion. After the official transfer of authority ceremony on July 17, 2013, TF Muleskinner began full scale sustainment, route reconnaissance, communications and aerial reconnaissance operations in support of Combined Task Force (CTF) Dragoon. TF Muleskinners mission is to provide essential enabler support to every Trooper within CTF Dragoon with efforts coordinated by our support operations and operations sections. Packhorse Troop delivers food, water, fuel, ammunition, medical

supplies and mail across the battle space to tle space by manning and operating reensure all Troopers are fit to fight. transmitting towers and tactical communication nodes where needed. They also play a critical role transitioning material from outlying bases as coaliNot only does Viper Troop manage the tion forces reduce our footprint in Afadministrative requirements for the Regighanistan. This mission is accomplished mental Staff, but they possess a truly through tactical convoy operations, as well unique aspect of the Task Force in the unas air delivery across the southern part of manned aerial systems. This platoon flies Afghanistan. unmanned surveillance aircraft providing intelligence support throughout the area of Hellraiser Troops maintenance platoon operations. Their efforts, combined with performs maintenance of the CTF Drathat of the Engineer Troop, help ensure the goons vehicle fleet, communication safety of the Troopers operating throughequipment and weapons while its medical out the Dragoon Area of Operations. platoon provides treatment, behavioral health, physical therapy and environmental Aside from the ability to provide logistiscience support to the Dragoon Soldiers. cal support across the entire Regiment, TF Sapper Troop is charged with leading the Muleskinner offer our Troopers a gym, a way, clearing routes of unexploded ordibasketball court, and our own resiliency nance (UXO) and improvised explosive center. devices (IEDs) that may pose a threat to friendly forces. The resiliency center offers Soldiers a chance to connect with loved ones back They utilize their training and various home with desktop computers with internet pieces of specialty equipment to detect and access as well as phones. It is the hope of reduce hazards along main routes allowing task force leadership that these amenities movement throughout the CTF Dragoon will allow Troopers time to refit, relax, and area of operations. Quickstrike Troop enrest so they can give 100% to the mission sures leaders are able to communicate to when supporting the Regiment. the farthest reaches of the Regiments bat-

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Centaurs Update

Combined Task Force Centaurs Commander Lt. Col. H.I.B. McNeilly and Command Sgt. Major Aaron White uncase the 1st Battalion, 6th Field Artillery Regiments Battalion Colors during the Transfer of Authority ceremony on Forward Operating Base Spin Boldak. (Photo by 102nd MPAD Print Specialist, Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann.)

he Centaur Battalion hit the ground running when they arrived at Forward Operating Base Spin Boldak in mid-June.

The first flight, led by Task Force Centaur Executive Officer Maj. Bernard House, arrived on June 15, 2013, and immediately established a great working relationship with 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment Tomahawks from the 4th Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, commanded by Lt. Col. Thomas Feltey.

uncasing of the 1-6 FA Regiment's colors marks another significant milestone in our history. This is the battalions third deployment to Afghanistan. Lt. Col. McNeilly emphasized patriotism and teamwork when he said The flag is who we play for, Team USA.

Maj. Gen. Paul LaCamera, visited TF Centaur and FOB Spin Boldak. While in AO Texas, LaCamera went on patrol with TF Centaur to the Weesh Border Crossing checkpoint along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, just south of the city of Spin Boldak. This was done in order to view the progress of the checkpoints construction and implementation on the border.

That is why we are here I am an American, serving the United States, like my forefathers before me. He concluded with We do it for the National Colors, our Regimental standards, each other, for Free- TF Centaur Soldiers continue to sharpen dom. For there is no mission too difficult, their skills by conducting several ranges On July 5, the battalions main body, to or a sacrifice too great. with partnered and coalition units. Adinclude Battalion Commander Lt. Col. vanced rifle and pistol marksmanship H.I.B. McNeilly, and Battalion Command On July 14, TF Centaur conducted their (ARM/APM) ranges have taken place, Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. combat patch ceremony, awarding Soldiers including ranges with the Albanian Special Aaron White, arrived at FOB Spin Boldak. of TF 1-6 with the 1st Infantry Division Forces company. At this time, the Centaurs ramped up their Big Red One combat patch. The battalefforts to take charge of Area of Operaion and battery commanders placed the TF Centaur continues to provide support tions Texas. Big Red One Patch on the right shoulder to Security Force Assistance Advisory of every 1-6 FA Soldier, symbolizing their Teams, and will strengthen our relationThe TOA ceremony, conducted on July service in the battalion during combat op- ship with our ANSF partners throughout 13, marked the official handover from 2nd erations. AO Texas. Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment to 1-6 Precluding the TOA and patch ceremoFA Regiment. During his address at the nies, the new commander for RC-South, Swift and Bold! ceremony, Lt. Col. McNeilly stated The

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Downrange Photos
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Christopher L. Budihas, commander of 4th Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, bows his head in prayer during an invocation given at a transfer-of-authority ceremony July 24, 2013 at Forward Operating Base Lindsay, Afghanistan. The ceremony formally marked the squadron's assumption of authority over operations in the area in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Army Troops with Alpha Troop, Regimental Support Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, conduct safety checks and mount weapons on trucks before convoy operations July 30, 2013 at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. The troops provided security during a convoy in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

U.S. Army Sgt. James Burchill with Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, Combined Task Force Dragoon, rides a four-wheeler as part of his duties as sergeant of the guard July 20, 2013 at Forward Operating Base Zangabad, Afghanistan. The Squadron has recently assumed responsibility for operations in the area in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Photos by Spc. Joshua Edwards