7TH ENGR BDE COMMANDER REPT VOL 18A

File: 970815_sep96_decls58_0008.txt
Page: 0008
Total Pages: 49
Subject = 7TH ENGR BDE COMMANDER REPT VOL 18A                             

Parent Organization = ARCENT      

Unit = VII CORPS   

Folder Title = 7TH ENGR BDE-COMMANDER REPT-VOL 18A -FORWARD AND COMMANDERS PERSPECTIVE                         

Document Number =          1

Box ID = BX000313








                The staff continued to work miracles. Each time I would
           start to ask something they already had the answer. Each time I
           would start to suggest something I quickly found they had already
           anticipated the requirement and had taken care of the situation.
           My guidance was minimal as each staff officer was rising to the
           occasion.

                Seemingly impossible obstacles became a routine matter of
           accomplishment. Fortunately we were already well ahead in
           planning and preparation. As I watched other commands crashing
           about getting organized I was ever so thankful that we had
           started early. I do not know why I felt driven to get us ready
           early, but it was a factor in our success.

                We formalized personnel data, equipment was redistributed
           and brought up to 100% (The Battalions not deploying paid a heavy
           price in "donating" practically everything), orders were placed
           for non-standard equipment and those things beyond our USAREUR
           requirements that were unique to Southwest Asia. The S-2
           mysteriously began accumulating intelligence that often exceeded
           the Corps collection effort. A good Ml officer always has his
           "sources." Quickly the IRAQI posture began to materialize.

                There seemed to be a million things ongoing at once. But,
           despite the busy schedule we found time for social functions and
           a Brigade HQ Hail and Farewell. This was the beginning of
           solidifying an already strong and operational spouse and family
           support group. Emotions were high yet everyone sensed a call to
           duty and everyone, families included, rolled up their sleeves and
           collectively began to support the effort.

                POM days came - Processing for overseas Movement. Soldiers,
           NCos, and officers alike stood in long lines reviewing finance
           and personnel records, filling out forms, wills, power of
           attorney, family support plans, and receiving a multitude of
           dreaded shots. Spouses volunteered to manage the POM stations --
           long hours and many days. Everyone was pulling.together like
           never before.

                Military communities embarked on a massive effort to develop
           facilities and programs designed to support family members not
           deploying. Family lounges were built and staffed. Briefings
           were held almost nightly with all community support agencies
           providing answers to anxious questions. Each unit, down to
           company level, established its own support group and held
           countless sessions to ensure every question, every need was met.




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