United States Army Europe

7th Army NCO Academy NEWSLETTER EDITION VI

AUGUST 1, 2013

PREPARING FOR WLC

USAREUR Teammates-

WLC is the first step in the challenging process of becoming a professional NCO. It is the starting point to build the professional education and physical fit-ness foundation for a young Soldier’s future. Techniques and procedures learned during the early years of your career will be the basis for future growth and success. The first bit of advice I’d like to offer would be.

First, read background material on WLC. Understand the general require-ments. Conduct a self-assessment of individual leadership strengths and weak-nesses and current proficiency in areas to be evaluated at WLC. Second, talk to recent graduates of the course, particularly from your unit. Ask questions – lots of questions. Inquire into what they learned, how they prepared, and what they found most challenging. Ask them about areas that caused them difficulty. Question them about actions that, in hindsight, they wish they had taken before going to school. Third, and probably the most critical, talk to your NCO chain of command about being selected for WLC. Ask for a critical evaluation on your personal strengths and weaknesses and areas to improve upon as you prepare to become a NCO.

The APFT will be administered within the first 72 hours at the NCO Acad-emy. It will be administered to the Army standard! You must be able to suc-cessfully pass all events by correctly performing each event in accordance with the standards in TC 3-22.20, Army Physical Readiness Training. Prior to attending WLC, read and understand the standard for each exercise as de-scribed in TC 3.22.20.

Ensure you meet height and weight standards prior to arriving at WLC. If overweight, see a doctor and/or dietician to assist you in designing a diet and personal conditioning program.

At least 6 months prior to WLC, engage in a rigorous program of physical

conditioning. Exercise all muscle groups and the cardiovascular system. Run

long distances, engage in road marches, and continuously practice each event

on the APFT. Ask a unit NCO or friends to observe your performance to

ensure you are executing each event properly. Cutting corners during practice

will only hurt your performance later.

Map Reading and Land Navigation are evaluated areas of the period of instruction. In order to succeed in land navigation, you must know how to read a map. To graduate you have to pass a written map reading examination and successfully nego-tiate a difficult Land Navigation Course. You can prepare for these events in the f you have difficulty with map reading or land navigation ask an NCO to tutor you in order to improve your proficiency.

Seek opportunities to practice on a land navigation course on your installation.

If possible, gain additional proficiency by participating in orienteering activities sponsored by your unit.

Finally, as you gather information, keep an open mind. You are probably going to hear lots of war stories. Don’t let the smoke confuse you. Remember your personal and chain of command assessments, be confident, plan for success, and prepare to face the challenge.

P A G E 2

Commandant’s Note CSM JIMMY J. SELLERS

First Steps

P A G E 3

The Warrior Leader Course (WLC), formerly the Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC), is the first course of study in the US Army Non-Commissioned Officer Education System (NCOES). WLC is a 22-day course that trains Specialists, Corporals, and Sergeants in the fundamentals of leadership. The course curriculum includes instruction in Leadership Skills, Training Skills and War fighting Skills. To graduate, students must pass the following evaluations:

Land Navigation (75%) Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) (60%) Physical Fitness Training Evaluation (70%) Individual Training Evaluation (70%) Garrison Leadership Evaluation (70%) Field Leadership Evaluation (70%) (Fully participate in the Situational Training Exercise) Land Navigation and the APFT have only recently been added back to the list after being considered unit level tasks for several years prior to 2012. PT evaluation is the ability to conduct a PT session. A passing APFT score is needed to attend WLC, and an APFT will be administered. Also it is broken down in these exams and performance evaluations:

Army Leadership (written) (70%) Training Management (written) (70%) Warfighting (written) (70%) Garrison Leadership (70%) PT (conducting) (70%) Individual Task Training (70%) Oral Presentation (70%) Army Correspondence (70%) Tactical Leadership (STX) (70%) Drill and Ceremony (70%) This is current as of FY 2013

WLC is non-specific to the soldier's Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), and graduates are awarded the NCO Professional Development Ribbon. Graduates who are below the rank of Sergeant also earn 90 promotion points that are retained until the graduate has been promoted. The next level of education is Advanced Leader Course (ALC), formerly known as Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course (BNCOC).

WARRIOR LEADER COURSE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Warrior Leader Table of

Table of contents

2 Commandant’s Note

3 Warrior Leader Course Requirements

4 Table of contents

5 Students Lessons Learned

6 Chief Of Training Note

7 Instructor Corner

8 Instructor Corner

9 Deployable Instrumentation Systems Europe

10 Command Posts

11 Assassins 1SG Note

12 Bulldog 1SG Notes

13 Academy Medic Note

14 In– Processing Note

15 Academy Map

16 Commandant’s Inspection

17 Iron Warrior Challenge Winners

18 Exam Results

19 Land Navigation

20 Leader Reaction Course

21 Resilience PRT

22 Honors list

23 Commandant’s lists

24 Commandant’s lists

25 Job Opportunities

26 Career Enhancements

P A G E 4

Prior to Dinner Chow, Class 08-13 getting back to the basics of “Customs and Courtesies”.

P A G E 5

“ STUDENT LESSONS LEARNED”

These were comments from the students on what they learned throughout the course and plan to take back.

These were just a few of the many comments from class 08-13. However they all had a lot to say .

How to conduct PRT properly? In many units within USAREUR, PRT is being conducted however, the com-mands and movements are not per FM 7-22 as were demonstrated here.

How to conduct counseling - Many students have been counseled before however, had no idea how to write, or

conduct it themselves. The practical exercises that were conducted in conjunction with the class were fun and infor-mative and gained the confidence of many for future counseling sessions.

How to conduct correspondence - They learned the way memos are written by having a reference, AR 25-50, not

something made up in their units orderly room.

Drill and Ceremony - They were shown it in BCT and have not done it since. It was refreshing to be a part of it and how to actually march a squad themselves.

ADP’s, ADRP’s, FM’s and AR’s - How to research and read the black and white print. Many students just assume

or take the word of mouth of their supervisors and peers having no idea from what or where it was derived.

How to be a part of a company level inspection during Commandant’s Inspection - What everyone’s role is and how to reference it in TC 3-21.5.

A majority of the support MOS’s enjoyed working with their combat arms peers when it came time for STX. Many

had not really done small unit movements.

Profiles - What the regulation states about profiles and recovery time and how to easily reference it from AR 40-501. Many were forced in their units to take PT tests the day after a profile expired for example.

Climbing drills in PRT - Most have conducted drills in their units however, were not at all shown in FM 7-22 and

here at WLC.

NCOER’s - The vast majority of Specialists have never seen one nor have an idea how to write one and the impor-tance of them in your Army career.

“LEADERS TRAINING LEADERS”

Schools NCO’s:

It is imperative that on Day 0 Students that ar-

rive for early report must already know their stu-

dent number. The SDNCO is the only one that

will be on academy grounds at that time. In the

past, Students are arriving on the bus, download

their gear and have no clue of the 5 W’s? No

building number where to go, student number or

Company they are in, etc. This slows the process

down immensely.

We have anywhere from 20 to 50 Students com-

ing in at any given time and for the SDNCO to

look through 375 names on a roster just to look

for one Student takes too much time. Where-as,

if they knew there Student number it would

streamline the process. I need your help; if this

continues to be an issue, this will require Brigade

level School NCOs to be here that Sunday early

arrival day.

P A G E 6

Chief of Training’s Note

EARLY ARRIVALS

SFC Antwan O. Garner

Have You Checked Out the 7th Army

NCO Academy to see the changes? Do you

really know what goes on behind the

scene? RSVP now and get in the “Be Know

Do” Era….

WLC FY 13 USAREUR

2293 99%

INTERNATIONAL

54 7%

P A G E 7

Land Navigation 550cord.com

Instructor Corner

We as Leaders at the 7th Army Non-Commissioned Officer Academy are constantly striving to improve training and enhance material for our students. One of the methods that we have came up with to better facilitate training is 550cord.com, 550cord.com is interactive learning at its finest. The animated and interactive Land Navigation Training software helps students; both new to land navigation and experienced service members learn and increase their land navigation skills. This training aid embeds animated 3D terrain models, animated graphics, instructional text, pictures, interactive exercises, 40 question Land Navigation Test, and examples from almost every aspect of Land Navigation. From ROTC cadets to Battalion Commanders, this is the perfect training aid to refresh and enhance Land Navigation skills. Land navigation is an instrumental attribute that all soldiers need to learn and comprehend while serving in the Army. Here at the 7th NCO Academy the foundations are taught from the basics all the way up to on the ground training in the field environment. The ability for soldiers today to recognize the importance of attention to detail and precise guidance and understanding comes into play very much during the Land Navigation process at the academy. Though there may be many different methods to teach someone Land Navigation the standards here at the academy are su-perb and efficient to all students who walk through the gates at the beginning of the cycle. Constant training and hands on scenarios are given to all students prior to moving all soldiers out to the land navigation lanes. By instilling this type of critical task and training to the students, we at the 7th NCO Academy can produce a well rounded and knowledgeable Soldier that will one day become a Sergeant and have to teach his or her solders the land navigation process.

P A G E 8

“What Right Looks Like”

Instructor Corner

The 7th Army Noncommissioned Officer Academy’s execution of What Right Looks Like has truly made an impact on the Students perspective of Army discipline and the proper way to conduct business as an Army Leader. The discussions are held in an environment that promotes two-way communication, builds clear and precise understanding and expands on relevant topics that are affecting today’s Soldiers. The discussions are held either outside or in the classroom and the students are in a relaxed and open atmosphere. This allows them to speak freely about the topic and ask questions or address any concerns. Cadre will either have the students sit in a horseshoe formation, in the wood line or in any setting that allows a student to feel comfortable. This definitely makes the climate better. The students have been taking full advantage of learning from the group discussions and have been expressing their ideas, opinions and experiences on each and every topic. The mixture of MOS’s and International Partners makes the discussion more versatile and in some cases very challenging. The ability to have Foreign Soldiers present gives the students an outside perspective of how other Armies conduct business. Most students are amazed to find out that their foreign counter parts daily duties consist of the same things that they are doing. This solidifies the strong bond built inside of the classroom.

The utilization of “What Right Looks Like” is a brick in the foundation that is the Warrior Leader Course. It is a valuable tool that can be done in any setting at any time. Not only does it bring peers closer together, it also allows them to see the differences. The topics are relevant and apply to all Soldiers in the Army to include international students. The 7th Army Noncommissioned Officer Academy will con-tinue to utilize and expand on “What Right Looks Like” all the while progressing and ensuring that the impact is a lasting one. The way ahead is to implement “What Right Looks Like” at the unit level by Senior Leaders to assist in shaping and forming a more solid, diverse and creative thinking Army. It is a step in the right direction that the NCO Corps should be headed.

P A G E 9

Deployable Instrumentation Systems

Europe

During the STX execution Soldiers are challenged with

conducting Key Leader Engagements, tracking down a

High Value Target, reacting to an Improvised Explosive

Device, conducting a movement to a Point of Origin and

searching for a Cache. Throughout the training Soldiers

must utilize their navigational skills to get from one point

to the next and prior to executing the mission the Soldiers

must plan and rehearse their actions on the objective be-

fore they execute the mission. DISE lays the ground work

to roll up all of the actions conducted by the Students with

ease.

Soldiers in the Warrior Leaders Course use advanced

simulation during the Situational Training Exercise

DEPLOYABLE INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEMS EUROPE

(DISE) is a State-of-the-Art, GPS and Radio, Soldier, Vehicle and

Structure Instrumentation System that tracks all actions, events

and engagements. It is fully deployable, Easy On - Easy Off

(Quick Transition to Combat Capability) system that can be ob-

tained by units to enhance pre-deployment, sustainment and re-

covery training. DISE is used by Students who attend the War-

rior Leaders Course; it captures all actions, events and engage-

ments between all instrumented Students involved in the exercise.

The system creates an immediate multimedia recording of the

students that enables them to view the execution of battle drills as

well as navigational and situational awareness errors during the

AAR. The AAR software features realistic representation of all

Students, by name and battle roster number allowing each individ-

ual Soldier to watch their actions. The software gives the facilita-

tor the ability to pan in and zoom out on the action and focus on

key events during the playback. This helps Students that where

placed into leadership positions during the particular battle drill to

visualize the concept of squad movement techniques, identify

their strengths and weakness and interactively discuss how to im-

prove upon them. Some of the capabilities that are utilized to

accomplish the overall training effect are the use of an audio cue

vest for artillery effects, small arms effects, wounds and kills.

P A G E 1 0

Command Post

Students learn the basics of Command and Control

As part of a culminating event planning rooms were

developed and incorporated into the Situational Training

Exercise students of the Warrior Leaders Course. Here Sol-

diers are challenged with standing up and operating a basic

Command Post where they battle track squad and team

movement, receive and disseminate reports, issue WARN-

ING Orders, and track all classes of supplies from rations to

ammunition expenditure. They also track casualties BLUE

FOR, OPFOR and Civilians on the battle field. The Stu-

dents get the opportunity to get a first hand look at what it

takes to prepare, plan and execute a mission from start to

finish which includes the use of an interactive After Action

Review process. A wide variety of Military Occupational

Specialties are selected to take on the task of coming to-

gether as a team and Command and Controlling their

Squads as they conduct varies missions through out the ar-

eas of responsibility. Some of the stations included cover the

basic Command elements that you would find within any

organization when there is a need to establish control.

Students use computers, projectors and overlays much like

they would use at home station while battle tracking and war

gaming strategies to accomplish their task. Soldiers use an

elevated sand table with graphics of the training area and

they use miniature models of vehicles, building and person-

nel to move around the sand table to depict both friendly

and enemy movement. Through the use of the Command

Post the squads executing the Situational Training Exercise

lanes get the most of what they need at the Squad Leader

level to request MEDIVAC, call for Fixed Wing and Artil-

lery support or request resupplies if needed. They receive

updates and changes to missions and utilize the Harris Radio

to communicate between squads and the Command Post.

P A G E 1 1

ASSASSINS 1SG 1SG SCOTT A. MADDEN

First Line Leaders preparation for WLC!

As a first line leader you have a Soldier selected to attend WLC. I hear

a lot of NCO’s say “Well, that Soldier better be prepared!” I’m here to

tell you there is more to just the Soldier being prepared. First Line

Leaders need to be prepared as well. If you are not prepared, how can

you expect your Soldier to be. I’m going to go over a couple of items

that as First Line Leaders, if you get out in front of won’t come back to trip you up later on the

dreaded 3X5 card.

TA-50 Inspections

You would think that this should be self explanatory; however it surely isn’t. Every cycle we have 50-60 Students that do

not have all the TA-50 that is required to attend the class.

Majority of the excuses come from 2 reasons,1– No one inspected the Student, or 2– It was there when the student was

inspected a week ago.

Some best practices for you to consider: 1– inspect Soldier the Friday before coming to school. Take said bags and lock

them up in your office area until that Student actually leaves for school. 2– If the Soldier was missing something on that

Friday, re-inspect once they get everything together again.

The packing list is extremely black and white. It says bring white or brown underwear, showing up with pink or black is

not acceptable. The packing list states bring 1 set of civilian clothing, substituting pt pants and white t-shirt for civilian

clothes is not acceptable. Have everything on the list: it’s black and white.

Student Documents

The Academy website under Academic Records has every single form that is needed to in-process on day one for WLC.

These documents have to be completed digitally and sent into Academic Records to be screened. If you are looking at a

form that does not have little green bubbles on it, you are looking at the wrong form. Hover over those bubbles and they

will tell you EXACTLY what is needed in that block and you can’t go wrong. The biggest area of issue has been the pre-

execution checklist. The Commander’s Name, Rank AND Branch have to be on the form. The little green bubble tells

you to put it in there. Fill out ALL information if it doesn’t pertain to the Soldier, then put N/A in the block.

Consent to Train Memos

If your Soldier has a physically limiting profile, the Soldier needs to sign a “Consent to Train” Memo. This memo explains

the minimal physical standards that the Soldier will encounter while here at WLC. If the Soldier is unable to obtain those

minimal physical standards then they will not be allowed to enroll into the course. The “Consent to Train” Memo helps

clarify to the Soldier with a run at own pace or distance, or a no upper body profile what exactly they will be expected to

accomplish.

Taking the time as First Line Leaders to accomplish these simple tasks prior to your Soldier arriving at WLC will not only

increase the Soldiers ability to be stress free from day one, but it has a positive impact on your own unit knowing you.

Organization

P A G E 1 2

.Preparing to attend WLC:

Physical Readiness

Very similar to conducting

Squad Drill you will also be

required to Conduct Physical

Readiness Training (T224).

You must plan the PRT ses-

sion and correctly perform

18 or, more of the 25 per-

formance steps in accor-

dance with the Course Man-

agement Plan (CMP) and FM

7-22. As always physical readiness starts very early in the

morning and embodies the fundamentals of strength, agility,

resiliency, and coordination. By executing a well thought out

plan every morning and during your daily

activities you can rest assured that you will

be at the fore front of good physical condi-

tioning and health. The first thing that I

would say is that no matter what you are

doing, you owe it to yourself to not cheat

your way out of a good workout. Physical

training should always be challenging, delib-

erate and focused on building a strong core.

Here at the Warrior Leaders Course we are

always looking for ways to improve our

physical fitness programs in order to provide a good solid

baseline in which Soldiers can take good practices back to

their units and assist with getting results. What I would like to

ask is that you dig really deep into FM 7-22, and take a look at

your repetitions, your posture, and your moderation of each

exercise that you perform. Across the board there are a lot of

Soldiers that attend the course and attempt to perform exer-

cises that cannot be referenced in FM 7-22. This is not to say

that there are not a lot of good fitness programs out there that

exist in the world today, but we are trying to stay uniformed

and practical across the board. If Soldiers make an investment

in a good quality physical fitness session derived from FM 7-

22 at home station, the reward of being physically fit, mentally

tough and resilient will be the outcome.

BULLDOG 1SG 1SG WALTER WALL

Preparing to attend WLC:

Drill and Ceremony

While attending the Warrior Leader Course at the 7th Army NCO

Academy, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to Con-

duct Squad Drill (T225). You will have to effectively lead Soldiers in

movement by correctly performing 14 or more of the 20 steps, in

accordance with the Course Management Plan (CMP) and TC 3-21.5.

Although, this may sound like a very difficult task, you can rest as-

sured that it is not. There are some very simple, basic steps and tasks

that you will need to practice while at your home unit that will make

you an expert in no time at all. Trying to find the time within a very

busy unit or organization can prove to be a challenge for some, but

there are opportunities that exist if we put our best foot forward and

make it happen. Here are some examples of those opportunities:

1). When units depart the first accountability formation and break

down into platoons for movement to and from your PRT areas.

2). Once PRT is complete and Soldiers move to your

local dining facility to consume a healthy morning

meal.

3). Your first company recall formation at 0900hrs

and the platoons move out to their work areas or

motor pools.

4). During your midday break for a healthy lunch at

your local dining facility (marching to and from the

DFAC is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills

on Drill and Ceremony).

5). Block off at least one hour on your training calendar two or three

times a week (OPTEMPO dependent) to conduct basic Drill and

Ceremony movement drills.

6). Soldiers that are recent graduates of the Warrior Leaders Course

are a wealth of knowledge on what to expect and how to execute

marching movement drills to standard.

It is a fact that not everyone wants to take advantage of their local

dining facility, which is designed to promote good health by selecting

only the meals that will help you achieve maximum results as far as

boosting energy levels and maintaining your weight. Before you are

released to consume the meal of your choice, dedicate the first 20-30

minutes to covering the basics on marching and military movement

drills in accordance with TC 3-21.5. You will find that you will be-

come more disciplined, trained and ready to meet the evaluation re-

quirements upon attending the Warrior Leaders Course.

.

Organization

P A G E 1 3

There is a new Consent to Train memo IAW the NCOA Paperless SOP dated 10 July 2013. This can be found at the link below: http://www.eur.army.mil/jmtc/Organization/NCO_Academy/NCOA.html Student profiles with a completed and signed Consent to Train must be submitted to the Medic inbox NLT 15 days prior to the class start date. Paperwork that is hand-carried into in-processing or missing paper-work will not be accepted and consequently, will not be submitted to the Commandant for approval. An issue most Units have is sending profiles with memos to our Academy Records or Chief-of-Training: the Medics do not track documents sent to another section. If the pa-perwork is sent anywhere other than the Medic inbox, it is not considered properly submitted. The email for submission is below:

usarmy.grafenwoehr.usareur.mbx.7ancoa-

medic@mail.mil

As shown in the attached chart over 83% of profiles submitted for Class 08-13, were not sent to the Medics 15 days in advance. These misconnections lead to rosters with incorrect information and we are unable to address issues early on. A Soldier on profile cannot in-process without prior approval, even Soldiers who have traveled from outside the footprint i.e. Vincenza, Shate and Landstuhl. Please note: The Academy will not be liable for Sol-diers forgetting medication, missing/cancelling appointments or treatment for chronic health con-cerns that were not managed prior to arrival. EBONIE N. ROUSER SGT, USA Medical NCOIC, 7th ANCOA

ACADEMY MEDIC SGT ROUSER, EBONIE

Methods of Submission Sent correctly prior to 15 day cutoff

9

Sent correctly but not before cutoff

8

Hand Carried / Not sent properly

38

TOTAL Profiles: 55

P A G E 1 4

SFC GARNER Chief Of Training NCOA

Early Arrivals- Students are highly encouraged to report on day

0, and should have already received their Student #’s and company desig-

nation from their Schools NCO or Sponsor. Also any Student who has

been ATRRS approved or is an approved walk-on will receive a Student

Welcoming Packet from the NCOA. It consists of the Student Guide and

Barracks SOP. This initiative was implemented class 08-13.

Schools NCO– You will report to in-processing Bldg 3423 at 0630 in order to receive an in-

brief with the Chief of Training i.e. Special instructions walk-ons, drops or questions. Schools

NCOs need to make sure Students are already aware of their assigned student numbers and compa-

nies, which is detailed on the PERSTAT which is sent to School NCOs 72 hours prior to class start

date. This information should be disseminated down to the lowest level.

Sponsors- You are welcome to eat breakfast in the DFAC on Academy grounds however spon-

sors are released after their Students have report to their assigned Company and attended the first

formation; at this point NCOA is accountable for the Student.

Student numbers - will be posted at the DFAC Gate of the NCOA. On that board will be a

list of Student, building, company and room numbers. These boards will reflect all Students that are

ATRRS approved and approved walk-ons. If you are not an approved walk-on report to the main in-

processing building. Everyone else will

report directly to assigned companies.

See picture of the boards to the right.

Important numbers:

Chief Of Training( SFC Garner): 475-8456

ATRRS (SGT Quillen) 475-8124

Academic Records (SGT Smullen) 475-6093

MEDICs (SGT Rouser) 475-8938

IN-PROCESSING

P A G E 1 5

SFC GARNER Chief Of Training NCOA

Below is a map of the Academy grounds. In-processing will begin at 0630 with

your assigned company. If you do not have your Student number, please report to

the in-process building (Bldg 3424) and a Cadre will point you in the right direc-

tion. Walk-on Students are the only ones required to report to the in-process build-

ing to be assign a Student number and company. Walk-on bags will be placed in

the Combatives building (Bldg 3444). All reserved will bring your bags to your as-

signed company and place it in your room prior to 0630. If you would like to eat breakfast chow, the DFAC is

open at 0600, but you must be present at 0630 for in-processing. Additionally, only BDE Schools NCOs are al-

lowed to be at the main in-processing buildings. All others, if you have any questions please report to the main in

-processing building. The holding area for Sponsors will be at the Multipurpose Building (Bldg 3500).

Early Arrivals: Allowing Soldiers to arrive one day prior to the official start date is highly encouraged. This practice will prove to dramatically reduce in-processing time. As the weather worsens please keep this in mind as you coordinate for buses to bring the Soldiers to the course. If you chose to send Schools NCOs and/or Sponsors early, we have room for them to reside overnight. The only requirement is for them to bring a sleeping bag. Any questions please contact the Chief of Training.

ACADEMY MAP

SGT/P Fernandez

sheds some insight:

SPC Cavallo, Angela R

Shape Health Clinic, ERMC

SSG. Kanev, Zdravko L.

Bulgaria

SGT/P Fernandez, Nicholas

Bravo Company

7th ANCOA SGL

Commandant’s Inspection The Commandant’s Inspection is an opportunity not just to display awards The Commandant’s Inspection is an opportunity not just to display awards

and decorations, but to show knowledge and understanding of AR 670and decorations, but to show knowledge and understanding of AR 670--1. 1.

The 7The 7thth ANCOA Command Team will inspect the Soldiers uniform, wall ANCOA Command Team will inspect the Soldiers uniform, wall

locker and room. You will also be asked basic Soldier knowledge questions locker and room. You will also be asked basic Soldier knowledge questions

that pertain to what you have learned while attending the course. The Sol-that pertain to what you have learned while attending the course. The Sol-

dier that stands out amongst their peers will be awarded thedier that stands out amongst their peers will be awarded the

“Commandant’s Award”“Commandant’s Award”

P A G E 1 6

H O N O R - L I V E U P T O A L L T H E A R M Y V A L U E S .

SPC. Wellington, Chameria D.

B Co 72nd ESB, 5th SIG CMD

NCOs are always eager to be given the chance

to look professional and lead by example. Stu-

dents at the 7th Army Noncommissioned offi-

cer Academy take part in a formal inspection in

which their knowledge of AR 670-1 and profes-

sionalism is put to the test. By wearing the Army

Service Uniform proudly, NCOs confirm their

commitment to the Profession of Arms and

traditions of the United States Army.

SPC Almazan, Brianda 173rd BSB, 173rd IBCT(A) (299)

The Army Physical Fitness Test is administered on DAY The Army Physical Fitness Test is administered on DAY 3 as a graduation requirement. The APFT tests their 3 as a graduation requirement. The APFT tests their muscular endurance, abdominal strength and aerobic muscular endurance, abdominal strength and aerobic fitness. This cycle, one male and female winner and one fitness. This cycle, one male and female winner and one International Military Soldier from the Academy will be International Military Soldier from the Academy will be awarded the title “Iron Soldier”.awarded the title “Iron Soldier”.

P A G E 1 7

Class 08-13 IRON WARRIOR WINNERS!

PV2 Hren, Denis 20th Infantry BN, 72nd BDE Slovenia (323)

CPL Morgan, Andrew M. B Co 2-159th AVN , 12th CAB (332)

The Army Physical Fitness Test that was given at the WLC academy was the best I have seen. The cadres were proficient in their jobs and everyone handled them-selves in a professional manner while the event was being conducted. As a Slovenia Soldier I saw some good training that I will take back to my unit to show my Sol-diers how to train. The route selection for the run was a great course as everyone knew where to go and turn around and the time of the day for our test was a great time. The test was a great beginning to the first week of the course and was a

very physical test that showed that the WLC Cadres were ready to train Sol-diers.

The PT Test was definitely graded to the standard. The instructors were tough but fair. Only the exercises that were done correctly were counted. I think it was a great experience to see What Right Looks Like. By ensuring tough standards across the board everyone gets the exact same opportunity. When the standard is set and the grade is complete, Students can realize that they were graded to the correct stan-dard and they received a grade for exactly what they completed. By ensuring the grades and scores are definitely accurate encourages an awesome feeling for me and knowing that I did my best and was graded by the best.

“Physical Fitness is a key component when ensuring complete combat readi-ness. All Soldiers should strive to achieve the high-est possible level of fit-ness. It may save your life.”

TRAINING EXAM

WARFIGHTING EXAM

LEADERSHIP EXAM Army Leadership

Developmental Counseling

Army Correspondence

History of the Army and the Non-

commissioned Officer

SHARP

Personnel Recovery

Effects of Culture

Resilience

Military Justice and Discipline

Suicide Prevention for Junior Leaders

Ethical Problem Solving

NCOES Initiatives

Average Scores

Assassins –90.81%

Bulldogs - 89.18%

Average Scores

Assassins - 90.32%

Bulldogs - 85.68%

Average Scores

Assassins - 94.13%

Bulldogs - 91.22%

Risk Management

After Action Review

Training Management

Conduct Individual Training

Health and Fitness

Drill and Ceremonies

Supply Procedures

Training Examination

Height and Weight

APFT

Small Unit Combat Operations Ac-

cording to the Law of War

Combat Orders

Team and Squad Movement Tech-

niques

Tactical Site Exploitation

Tactical Operations

Tactical Reports and Requests

Casualty Evacuation

War fighting Examination

Situational Training Exercise

Map Reading

Land Navigation

.

P A G E 1 8

P A G E 1 9

On January 2013 Map reading and Land Navigation was implemented into the Warrior Leader Course as a Graduation require-

ment.

Preparing for the Land Navigation Evaluation

WLC land navigation is very challenging and conducted on day 16 & 17. In order to succeed in land navigation, you must

know how to read a map or at least the basics. To graduate

you have to pass a written map reading examination and

successfully negotiate a difficult Land Navigation Course.

You can prepare for these events in the following ways:

Review map-reading skills from the Common Skills Sol-

diers Manual/Test (STP 21-1-SMCT). Read and understand

FM 21-26, Map Reading and Land Navigation. Practice

locating points on a map, determining distance from one

point to another, plotting grid coordinates and plotting azi-

muths onto or from a map. Understand how to prepare

and execute movement from one point to another using a

military map, coordi-

nate scale, protractor, and lensatic compass. Practice walking from one point to an-

other using a map and compass. Determine if you tend to veer to the right or left as

you move and learn to compensate for such habits. Identify your pace for 100 me-

ters on flat and hilly terrain. Gain experience maintaining azimuth while keeping

track of distance traveled. Practice navigating around obstacles, thick terrain and

around buildings. When in doubt ask to be an assistant instructor, they are here to

help and Instructors here at the 7th Army NCO Academy conduct the course every

cycle break, also ask your squad leader at your unit. Seek opportunities to practice

on a land navigation course on your installation. Lastly talk to other graduates and

receive some tips and techniques from them, Grafenwoehr Land Navigation course

is not a easy course, you must know what you are doing IOT succeed.

LAND NAVIGATION CYCLE 08-13

P A G E 2 0

Leaders Reaction Course 08-13

Students conducted the Leader Reaction Course which proved to be a great team building exercise. Soldiers learned from each other's skills and talents. When a mix of MOSs face a critical task, many courses of action can take place and selecting the right one is challenging. The team expects their Leaders to guide them to a positive outcome and complete the task, in many occasions they have to re-assess their COA and look to other team members for additional input. The entire squad has to think quickly due to time constraints and are constantly under pressure, both mentally and physically.

PAST

JULY 1980

PRESENT

JULY 2013

P A G E 2 1

RESILIENCE Incorporated into the physical readiness training plan for the WLC., Soldiers lead and participate in challenging Comprehensive Team Building Physical Readiness Training. The plan was developed and implemented by one of the NCOA’s resident Master Resil-iency Trainers (MRT), SSG Laos assigned to A Co, 7th Army NCO Academy. He derived the training plan from the five pillars of strength Physical, Emotional, Spiritual, Family and Social. Resiliency PRT consists of multiple challenging events which assist Soldiers in focusing not only the rigors of completing the event. But how they can apply what they endure, to overcoming the demands in the challenges life presents. Upon conclusion of each event, small group leaders facilitate discussions on the six resilient competencies of self awareness, self regulation, optimism, mental, agility, strength of character and connection. The Soldiers agree that this type of PRT is something they would advertise at their units, with the intent of assisting others in handling the stressors of life and Soldier-ing.

GUERRILLA GUERRILLA DRILLSDRILLS

VERTICALS AND VERTICALS AND SHUTTLE SHUTTLE SPRINTSSPRINTS

YY--SQUATS AND SQUATS AND ROWERROWER

MOUNTAIN MOUNTAIN CLIMBERCLIMBER

SIDE BRIDGESIDE BRIDGE

POWER SKIPPOWER SKIP

LATERALSLATERALS

LEG TUCK AND LEG TUCK AND TWISTTWIST

LITTER CARRYLITTER CARRY

4 MAN PARTNER 4 MAN PARTNER ASSISTED ASSISTED CARRYCARRY

SQUAD TIRE FLIPS SQUAD TIRE FLIPS

CLIMBING DRILLSCLIMBING DRILLS

SUPINE BICYCLESUPINE BICYCLE

SHOULDER ROLLSHOULDER ROLL

LUNGE WALKLUNGE WALK

LOG CARRYLOG CARRY

WLC Class 08-13 Honor Roll

Distinguished Honor Graduate

BCO SGT QUINTERO, GUSTAVO, HHC 1/503RD, 173RD IBCT (A)

Distinguished Honor Graduate (IMS)

ACO PV2 HREN, DENIS , SLOVANIA

Distinguished Leadership Awardee

BCO SGT RITTERHOUSE, KRISTOPHER, HHC 1/503RD, 173RD IBCT(A)

Distinguished Leadership Awardee (IMS)

ACO PV2 HREN, DENIS , SLOVANIA

Commandant’s Inspection Awardees

ACO SPC CAVALLO, ANGELA R. SHAPE HEALTH CLINIC, ERMC

BCO SPC WELLINGTON, CHAMERIA D. B CO 72ND ESB, 5TH SIG CMD

IMS SSG KANEV, ZDRAVKO L. BULGARIA

Iron Soldiers (Male) CPL MORGAN, ANDREW , B CO 2/159TH AVN, 12TH CAB (332)

Iron Soldiers (Female)

SPC ALMAZAN , BRIANDA , HHC CO 173RD BSB, 173RD IBCT(A) (299) Iron Soldiers (IMS)

PV2 HREN, DENIS (323) SLOVANIA

INSTRUCTOR OF THE CYCLE

BCO SSG CELONA, JOEL M.

P A G E 2 2

WLC Class 08-13 Honor Roll CONT..

P A G E 2 3

Commandant’s List Awardees:

SPC HAGAN II GERALD D A CO, 2ND MI BN 66TH MI BDE

SPC LUNT IAN C B CO, 412TH AVN 12TH CAB

SGT CARDENAS JOSE A HHT 1/91ST CAV 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT CARLSON JASON C C CO, 2/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC SCHULTZ JASON R WEISBADEN HEALTH CLINIC ERMC

SPC FELIX EFRAIN D CO, 2/159TH AVN 12TH CAB

SPC MCNEIL JUSTIN K C CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT POWELL JONATHAN K B CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT SCHOENTHAL MATTHEW W C CO, 1 MI BN 66TH MI BDE

SGT FERRO BRADLEY M B TRP, 1/91ST CAV 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC WINTERS STEFAN M HHB 5-7 ADA 10TH AAMDC

SGT ALLEN ERIN M D CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT MACATEE MICHAEL J B CO 1-4 INF OPFOR JMRC

SGT KLINE ETHAN R HHC, 173RD ABCT 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT GATEWOOD JOSHUA D HHC BDE, 173RD IBCT 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT BOOKER NATHANIEL F B TROOP, RSS 2 CR

SPC JIMENEZ KEVIN M C CO, 2ND MI BN 66TH MI BDE

SPC CHRISTIAN ALAN G C 1-214 AVN REG 12TH CAB

SGT DAY JAMES G B CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT HAGEN JACOB K 527TH MP CO, 709TH MP BN 21ST TSC

SPC ECHEVARRIA JESUS M A CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC LAWSON SCOTT J D CO, 2/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT DOWD ALEXANDER W HHC, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC HAYS DOUG H 106th FMSU, 16TH STB 21ST TSC

SPC JOHNSON KEITH J C CO, 2/159TH AVN 12TH CAB

SPC SYPNIEWSKI RYAN J D 5/158 AVN REG 12TH CAB

SPC MANSFIELD KEITH A C CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

CPL WALKER CODY L B CO, 1/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC STEPANIUK ASHLEY R 529TH MP CO, 95TH MP BN 18TH MP BDE

SPC SAPINSKI EUGENE F HHC 30 MEDCOM 30TH MEDCOM

SPC VANDENBOSSCHE JUSTIN A B CO 44TH ESB, 7TH TTSB 5TH SIG CMD

SPC ZARZECK, JR. RONALD G HHC 2 MI BN, 66TH MI BDE 21ST TSC

WLC Class 08-13 Honor Roll CONT..

Commandant’s List Awardees:

P A G E 2 4

SPC SMITH CETERA C 317TH SMC, 16TH STB 21ST TSC

SPC SCHROEDER JONATHAN L E 173 BSB 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT HADINEC ANTHONY C C0 2-503RD INF BN 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC SNODDERLY STEVEN K HHC, 16TH STB 21ST TSC

SPC MAYFIELD CASEY J HHC, 21ST TSC 21ST TSC

CPL MORGAN ANDREW M B 2/159 AVN REG 12TH CAB

SPC ARANA FRACISCO 240TH QMSC, 16TH STB 21ST TSC

SPC PROUGH DEVON M 230TH MP CO, 95TH MP BN 21ST TSC

SPC DELAPENA ERICK S A CO, 173RD BSB 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC HUFFSTETLER NICHOLAS A C CO, 2/503RD INF 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC GONZALEZ, JR. VICTOR M E CO, 1/503 Inf 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC HEUER JASON E HHB 5-7TH ADA 10TH AAMDC

SPC ADAMS CAMERON J 181ST SIG CO 5TH SIG CMD

SPC KIM HYONG U 3-17TH MAINT CO, 16th STB 21ST TSC

SPC JOHNSON ANTWAIN D HHC CO, 173RD BSB 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC BROWN GARRETT M E TRP. 2-2 CR 2 CR

SPC MCMAHON RYAN F G BTRY, 4/319TH FSE 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT DIXON DANIEL J A CO, 173RD STB 173RD IBCT (A)

SPC LESLEY ALLAN I A CO, 24TH MI BN 66TH MI BDE

SPC MONTALVO ARELI 240TH QMSC 21ST TSC

SPC CHIARELLI RACHAEL L 557TH Medical Center 30TH MEDCOM

SPC GARCIA JESUS D E TRP, 173RD BSB 173RD IBCT (A)

SGT HEWARD KEVIN B HHB 4/319 FA 173RD IBCT (A)

Job Opportunities

P A G E 2 5

Interested in joining the Academy team?

We are looking for the very best NCOs in Europe to serve as instructors at the most prestigious Warrior Leader Course in the U.S. Army.

Qualifications:

Potential WLC instructors must meet the following criteria: · Hold the rank of Staff Sergeant or Sergeant 1st Class · Graduate of WLC and Advanced Leadership Course · Successfully served as Squad Leader or equivalent · Passed last APFT · Meet Army height and weight standards · At least 2 year's experience in PMOS at the skill level you will be instructing · High School graduate or GED equivalent · GT score of 100 · No physically limiting permanent/temporary profiles · Remaining time in country not less than 24 months from date of assignment to the Academy · Must have a security Clearance

Packet Items: Interested NCOs must submit the following docu-ments to be considered: · ERB · Copy of last current APFT and body fat worksheet (if applicable) · Weapons Card · Copy of last 5 NCOERs · Letter of release from Battalion Command Sergeant Major Documents can be found at the web address below: http://www.eur.army.mil/jmtc/Organization/NCO_Academy/WLC.html

S E L F L E S S S E R V I C E - P U T T H E W E L F A R E O F T H E N A T I O N , T H E A R M Y A N D Y O U R

S U B O R D I N A T E S B E F O R E Y O U R O W N .

P A G E 2 6

CAREER ENHANCEMENT

How to earn the Badge:

(INCOPD) Institute for Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development after the candidates appear be-

fore a panel of select personnel designated by the Commandant and the Quality Assurance Officer. Instructors

must accumulate 500 contact hours as a Primary Instructor after receiving Instructor certification and a few

more requirements, then the NCOA will submit the request to USASMA. INCOPD will review the request to

ensure that the MINUMUM standards for the award of each recognition level is met (Basic, Senior). (INCOPD)

will then submit a memorandum for record to the Center/School that documents the acceptance of the Rubric

IOT receive the Army Instructor Badge and receive the Addional Skill Identifier “8K”.

What SFC and MSG Selection Boards look for: Having diverse duty positions within your CMF is strongly encouraged; leadership and staff. (S3, S4, Battle

NCOs, SPO NCOs and etc.) Taking on additional level of responsibility is a strong indicator. You should strive

to do and establish bench marks of things you want to achieve in the additional level of responsibility.

Special Duty: Drill Sergeant, Recruiter, Small Group Leaders, AIT platoon Sergeant, EOA, IG, Forward Ob-

servers and etc. Selection Boards recommend if you have had the normal leadership and staff jobs within your

CMF go apply for a special duty. This is heavily favored. Do not go from special duty to special duty. The 7th

NCO Academy had a 45% selection rate for the last Sergeant First Class Board and 57% (4 out of 7) selection

rate for Master Sergeant.

H O W T O S E T Y O U R E S L F A P A R T F R O M Y O U R P E E R S

N E W I N S T R U C T O R B A D G E S P E N D I N G A P P R O V A L

P A G E 2 7

In the Next Issue: Preparing For the Board

Cycle 09-13 Sharp

Ethical Problem Solving “ High Ground”

(CAPE)