Mobilizing an entire battalion brought many challenges at multiple levels, but Minton remained steadfast and persistent on mission accomplishment. Again, I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to have Minton as my battle buddy as the division continues to operate in an environment of complexity, fiscal constraints, and ambiguity.
Sgt. Maj. Richard Minton
Command Sgt. Maj.
95th Training Division (IET)
Also, I want to thank Command Sgt. Maj. Joe Payne for his consistent insight, knowledge, and counseling over the years. As Payne departs over the next couple weeks, I am mindful of all that he represents to this command – its journey and transformation over turbulent years for our nation and the Army Reserve. I am truly thankful for his over watch and guidance during those many days of patrolling the streets of Baghdad – knowing that Payne would not accept nothing less than the best for our Soldiers and our families under extremely stressful conditions. I wish Payne the very best moving forward – always – and thank you for everything.
I must also report the passing of a great soldier Staff Sgt. Michael Prokop who was struck by another vehicle while attempting to administer first aid to a motorist from an automobile accident in San Diego, Calf. Prior to joining Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 413th Regiment, 2nd Brigade, 95th Training Division (IET), Prokop served with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment on multiple deployments into austere scenarios as a combat medic — in the thick of the fight. Truly dedicated to our nation’s defense, Prokop’s professionalism, valor, and integrity is an example to us all in a time where selfishness and greed is paramount across our society. Let us not forget his spouse, his children, and his father during this time of personal grief. To Prokop — RLTW — always.
I enjoyed the opportunity to meet the brigade and battalion command teams over the past couple months during the Yearly Training Briefs. Across the division, we are blessed with leaders who understand the challenges, the difficulties — but who also continue to aggressively take each tasking, each change with complete focus on mission accomplishment. Over the next couple weeks, there are three areas that command teams are focusing on — drill sergeant recruitment/production, medical readiness, and the APFT. The division immediately needs to tackle any and all deficiencies related to our drill sergeant strength, medical readiness, and the APFT — above and beyond what has happened in the past. More to follow ....
In closing, let us not forget that many Soldiers within our formation accelerate down the path of deployment over the next couple of weeks. As our Soldiers prepare for operations – mentally, physically, and spiritually – there is family that is impacted in a profound way – often silently - especially with the holiday season upon us.
Stay safe in your travels — meet you on the objective — and Godspeed. Charlie mike ....