Read all about the great things our Soldiers are accomplishing in Iraq ... articles from each platoon, lots of photos, and more!

1. Red Dragon Families and Friends, September 2011
The Red Dragons continue to accomplish much here in Southern Salah ad Din Inside this issue:
as we keep the pressure on the enemy through rock solid partnerships with our Iraqi Se-
Red Dragon 9 2
curity Forces, unwavering dedication to population security with local leaders and resi-
dents, and disciplined and precise execution of all missions. The routine 120+ degree Headquarters Battery 3-6
weather in August was no doubt hot, but your Soldier and all Red Dragon leaders were Alpha Battery 7-10
vigilant to ensure we were properly cared for and ready for the extreme heat. August
Bravo Battery 11-12
11-
was also the month of Ramadan and as such, many of us spent numerous nights with our
security force partners, Government leaders, and local tribal leaders by breaking of the Golf Company 13-15
13-
fast at dinner. It was a great time to get to know each other better, learn more about the
area where we serve, and discuss security topics. I am always impressed by the hospi- Chaplain’s Corner 16
tality of our host nation. These leaders insist on providing meals for entire platoons and Rear Detachment 17
will not rest until they are certain everyone has eaten and are satisfied. I suggest that all Promotions &
should experience an Iraqi style meal that is complete with lamb, chicken, rice, toma- Re-enlistments 18
toes, cucumber, bread, yogurt, humus, dates, watermelon, and many condiments. It is
Photo Collage 19
delicious and different than what many of us are accustomed to in the United States.
Most of the time, we are standing to eat and rarely do we use any utensils other than our Get the most up-to-date information
on the Red Dragons:
hands. It is a very social scene and emphasizes what is most important to our Iraqi part-
ners – family!
While each of the batteries continue to perform with distinction throughout our
area of responsibility, I will share one particularly special event. As part of the end of www.facebook.com/382FARedDragons
Ramadan, there is a three-day festival where everyone spends time with family. An ini-
tiative with both the US Air Force and the Red Dragons was to provide a small gift to about 300 of the children that live
nearby. It was a great opportunity to build our relationship with the local community and ensure the children could spend
time with Iraqi Police, Iraqi Army, and Iraqi Government leaders in a festive environment. The children were given
stuffed animals, soccer balls, and toys to brighten their day. It was a great success and a superb event coordinated by our
Civil Affairs Team and the Hellraiser Battery.
We have a lot to look forward to over the next few months. Our Rear-D continues to schedule fantastic events in
support of our Families. The FRG Family Nights continue to be a wealth of information and a good meal too. October
will bring the second Town Hall via video teleconference as well as our second iteration of Trunk or Treat! We are also
looking forward to the Red Dragon Spouses showing us how it
is done in the Spouses Spur Ride! We have added one more
goal for the battalion and that is to be over 1,000 likes on our
Battalion Facebook page by January! So, c‘mon ya‘ll, get your
Families and friends connected with us and let‘s keep the com-
munications lines wide open.
Red Dragons and Red Dragon Families and Friends, you
continue to inspire all that have the privilege to work with or
simply be around you. Thank you!
BlackJack!
Red Dragons!
Sincerely,
LTC Nate Cook
LTC Cook talking with CPT Hammond during the paladin live fire

2. Another month has gone by and we are now about a quarter of the way done with the deployment. The Red Drag-
ons continue to do well and I have been incredibly impressed to see how we have grown and adapted to meet the demands
of this deployment. I have had the privilege of being a member of this great organization for thirty-eight months, and have
seen how all the long hours of training have made a difference against the enemy and over the people of southern Salah Ad
Din province.
Our living conditions here on Joint Base Balad (JBB) are very comfortable compared to our previous deployments.
The Soldiers have the opportunity to enjoy multiple facilities such as a 24 hour gym, two dining facilities, PX, Local Na-
tional Bazaar, and MWR. Additionally, each battery has their own SPAWAR internet and phone service available at their
Command Posts. Each Containerized Housing Unit (CHU) is wired for American TV reception through the service of the
Armed Forces Network (AFN) and either cable or wireless internet service for a fee. Our living conditions in the Samarra
Joint Coordination Center (SJCC) are a little more austere due to the facility location and capacity; however, I can‘t find a
Soldier in Samarra that would like to voluntarily rotate to JBB. Overall, our Soldiers have access to a myriad of facilities
to relax or stay connected with friends and loved ones.
I wanted to take this opportunity and recognize SGT Roberto Velasco from the Gator Battery and PFC Marcus
Jones from Thunder for their performance and selection as NCO and Soldier of the Month for August. SGT Velasco and
PFC Jones performed exceptionally well and continue to meet and exceed the ‗Red Dragon‘ standard of performance.
Over the past month the battalion sponsored a GT improvement class, led by SGT Bracken from Gladiator to pro-
vide Soldiers an opportunity to raise their GT score. A total of 15 Soldiers volunteered to attend the evening GT improve-
ment program. The program is designed to educate our Soldiers in the areas of reading comprehension, grammar, vocabu-
lary, and mathematics. Soldiers with a GT score of 110 or above have the best chance to reenlist for their dream job
[Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)] in the Army.
Finally, I wanted to inform you that our
Morale, Rest and Recuperation Leave started this
month and a total of 57 Soldiers took advantage of
the program. We are in glide path to send another 54
Soldiers in September.
Thanks again for reading, and I look forward
to updating you all next month,
CSM Soto
Red Dragon 9
CSM Soto atop of a rooftop in front of Samarra‘s famous Golden
Mosque

3. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 3
Greetings Hellraisers!!! This month was a big learning experience for our platoons as the Iraqi people celebrate
Ramadan. Throughout August we improved our relationships with the local leaders in the Balad Qadaa as well as our Iraqi
Security Forces counterparts. On numerous occasions our Soldiers have been invited to Iftar dinners, to break the fast with
the local people. These dinners have been great and filled our bellies with complete satisfaction. Every day our Hellraiser
Soldiers work incredibly hard to enable the Iraqi Security Forces and provide security to the local populace. Our Soldiers
have remained focused and motivated and have made a significant impact throughout Balad.
We appreciate each and every one of you remaining patient throughout this deployment. We understand that there
are a lot of rumors as to when we are expected to return. As of now we are still focused on a 12 month deployment with all
Hellraiser Soldiers taking mid-tour leave. If there are any questions in regards to this don‘t hesitate to ask on the ‘Red
Dragon‘ Facebook page. We appreciate everyone‘s support throughout the month of August. Our Soldiers very much ap-
preciate the gifts, letters, and care packages. It‘s the greatest part of our day to hear from our Hellraiser family and to
know everything is well back home. Your support and service never go unnoticed.
Finally we want to say thank you to Mrs. Megan Haynes for her service as the Hellraiser FRG leader. Megan is
moving to South Carolina with CPT Robert Haynes as he continues his service in the United States Army. Megan has
been the Hellraiser FRG leader since October 2010. Her dedication and commitment to the unit and ensuring Families are
receiving accurate information has been incredible. We‘d also like to welcome Mrs. Leslie Tyree to the Hellraiser FRG
team as she will be assuming co-leader responsibilities with Mrs. April Thornton.
Thank you for everything you do for us. Your continued support throughout the deployment is much appreciated
by each and every one of us. Take care and we hope to see you soon!
Very Respectfully,
Michael Roscoe
CPT, FA Commanding
Hellraiser 6 4 Sept. – SFC Mark Sneed and his wife, Teresa
4 Sept. – SPC Timothy Humphries and his wife, Rebecca
15 Sept. – SPC Kevin Barry and his wife, Jessica
29 Sept. – SSG Elbert Smith and his wife, Christine
4 Sept. – SPC Ronald Magpayo
6 Sept. – SPC Delwin Smith
9 Sept. – PFC David Cho
10 Sept. – PFC Douglass Miller
15 Sept. – SPC Rafael Laureanoreyes
16 Sept. – CPT Maxwell Carroll
17 Sept. – CPL Kevin Grannes
19 Sept. – SPC David Treccariche
20 Sept. – SGT Eddie Brown
28 Sept. – SGT Jilly Gonzalez
CPT Roscoe with BG Mohammed of the Balad Iraqi Police

4. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 4
During the month of August, 1st Platoon has been working hard conducting missions throughout the Hellraiser Area
of Operations. The Soldiers have remained diligent in their efforts to keep the area around Joint Base Balad as safe as
possible. We continue to demonstrate what a close knit group we are. Members of the platoon do everything
together, from the small things such as haircuts and going to chow, to the big things like prepping for a mission. First
Platoon is a group of Soldiers that continue to make the Hellraiser Battery proud every single day.
We have been busy during the hot month of August. We had the honor of escorting Red Dragon 6 to an Iftar dinner
with a local Sheik. The feast that was prepared was a great demonstration of the relationship being developed between the
local Iraqi people and the United States Army. The men continue to strive to develop the close relationships that are crucial
to the end state the United States has been working towards for so many years, as the withdrawal from Iraq continues to
draw closer.
The platoon was fortunate enough to promote two Soldiers this month.
Both PFC Beck and PFC Green were promoted to Specialist. These two Sol-
diers are great examples of strong dedication to their jobs and the
desire to be the best at what they do. Soldiers of First Platoon strive every day
to be the best they can be, taking pride in their work and accept nothing but the
best out of each other.
On the third week of August, we conducted refit. This was a week
that allowed us to rest, recover, and conduct maintenance on our equipment
and vehicles. All Soldiers updated their records, retrained in combat life sav-
ing, and prepared themselves to get back into conducting missions with great
enthusiasm. First Platoon thanks everyone once again for your continued
support as we look forward to another month in Iraq.
1st Platoon Enjoying a dinner with a
2LT Zach Williams local sheik and his family
1st Platoon Leader
August has been a busy month for 2nd Platoon. Soldiers have been working hard getting to know the people who
live near Joint Base Balad. We are working incredibly hard to secure the future of Iraq, leaving a lasting impression on the
Iraqi people and to safely return home once our mission is complete. We‘d like to congratulate SSG Schones for his service
to the United States Army. SSG Schones has served four combat tours in Iraq and is currently planning on attending Okla-
homa University to begin a career in nursing and to continue his service as an officer upon graduation. His leadership will
be greatly missed in Second Platoon and we wish him the best of luck in his future quest.
We would also like to congratulate SGT Lape, who joined the NCO corps this month. We look forward to his fur-
ther contributions and leadership with his promotion. Also, Second Platoon
would like to congratulate the O‘Malley family for the birth of their son, Connor.
We hope he brings you happiness and joy through the coming years. Second
Platoon continues to influence the people of Iraq, and due to the contributions of
every Soldier, Iraq is becoming a safer place.
Thank you all for your efforts in keeping our Soldiers happy by giving
them the support they need. Your service and dedication to the unit has been a
great help to us. We appreciate each and every one of you and ask you to keep
up the good work. Thank you all once again.
2LT Andrew Roberts
2nd Platoon Leader
SSG Bartley preparing 2nd Platoon
Soldiers for a patrol in a local town
outside of Joint Base Balad

5. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 5
I hope all is well back in Texas. 3rd Platoon has had a successful August out here in Joint Base Balad. To our re-
lief, the weather actually started to cool down around the middle of the month. The middle of the day can still be brutal,
but we are enjoying cooler nights and the platoon looks forward to every night patrol. It is not unusual for Soldiers to find
themselves cold when they spend a lot of time inside air conditioned buildings, and they need to take periodic breaks to
step outside and warm back up. The patrol has had a chance to see the gorgeous Iraqi countryside during some dismounted
operations. Contrary to what all of us expected, the terrain here is surprisingly lush with vegetation. The platoon has
navigated canals, aqueducts, palm groves, orchards, and thick grass. The local farmers are very friendly and will often
offer some of their produce when the platoon passes through. The patrol has enjoyed grapes, pomegranates, figs, and dates
straight from the farm.
August has roughly corresponded with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the platoon has witnessed a
significant change in the daily routine of the locals. During the heat of the day all of the villages are like ghost towns, with
not a soul in sight. At about 8PM the local populace is rejuvenated from breaking their fast and the streets are packed.
Children are playing everywhere while adults chat with their neighbors; every evening
in the village is very similar to a block party back in the United States. The platoon has
certainly learned quite a bit about the local culture firsthand.
I have moved to the 1-8 Cavalry Battalion to work as a Fire Support Officer. I
did a one-for-one swap with 1LT Jon Coffield who will be taking control of the pla-
toon in September. It has been a true honor and a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead
your sons and husbands in theatre. I thank them for their dedication to their country
and their willingness to follow me every day on patrol.
1LT Christopher Koppel
3rd Platoon Leader SSG Fields and SSG Rodriguez
with local Iraqi Police
Once again greetings Hellraiser family and friends from the Radar Platoon on FOB Warhorse. We are another
month down in our deployment to Iraq. The Soldiers of the Radar Platoon remain focused on the task at hand and continue
to do an excellent job day in and day out. Since the last time we spoke, the Soldiers here have taken a Physical Fitness
Test, completed section level Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) training, and conducted equal opportunity training.
The morale of the platoon remains extremely high as we begin to transition and pack up equipment in preparation
for our move to Joint Base Balad where we will reunite with the Battalion in the near future.
If you have not yet been informed, there has been a change of address for the Soldiers here. The new address was
sent out in an email from the FRG. You may continue to send your care packages to your Soldiers. They are greatly appre-
ciated. I would like to continue to applaud you on the support you have shown to your Soldier. You make our jobs here a
little easier knowing that things are taken care of at home. We thank you for your support and look forward to reuniting
with you.
CW2 Robert T. McDonald
Radar Platoon Leader
New Mailing Address
Rank, Name
3-82FA, 2/1 CD (AAB)
Joint Base Balad
APO AE 09391
CW2 McDonald and
SFC Bradford

6. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 6
The Personal Security Detachment (PSD) ‗Spartan‘ Platoon has had a rather busy month this August. PSD has a
unique mission as we are a battalion asset that works directly for the battalion commander. Members of the platoon have
to be very flexible and willing to adjust to the ever-changing schedule of the battalion commander. We have conducted
operations throughout the entire Red Dragon operating environment from our northernmost boundary all the way to the
southernmost boundary. Each and every mission PSD conducts directly affects not only the mission of the ‗Red Dragon‘
battalion but also the Blackjack brigade. For every Key Leader Engagement (KLE) the battalion commander attends, the
Spartans escort him there and ensure his safety throughout the entire engagement.
Soldiers within the ‗Spartan‘ platoon have experienced the Iraqi culture first hand by joining the battalion
commander in the breaking of the fast meals known as Iftar dinners. These dinners, only conducted during Ramadan, are
very important to the Iraqis as it is the first time they have eaten or drink anything all day and are a big celebration. Many
of the Soldiers have especially enjoyed the Chai (Tea) that is served after the meal
and are seeking out ways to take some back with them when we re-deploy.
This month, some Soldiers have gotten a chance to enjoy a week of refit
and recovery in which they ensure their administrative information is up to date
and also take their truck through a maintenance refit. The Soldiers have taken
great pride in their mission and feel they are truly making a difference with the
local population in the Red Dragon Operating Environment and look forward to
the coming months as they further build on those relationships created with the
populace.
2LT John Manning
PSD Platoon Leader PFC Meza and SGT Stewart providing
security for Red Dragon 6
The Hellraiser Company Intelligence Support Team (CoIST) and Command Post (CP), has continued to provide
intelligence analysis and target development to Hellraiser 6 and the platoon leaders of the Hellraiser Battery. SGT Benson
and PFC Stakem haveSection at FOB WARHORSE Balad quite a bit over the past couple of weeks conducting Key Leader
Q36 both been off of Joint Base
Engagements and searching for weapons cache sites. It is very beneficial to the intelligence gathering and targeting
processes to be able to send CoIST Soldiers out into the area because they are Q37 Section at FOB WARHORSE. and have a
trained in intelligence collection
much more in depth view and understanding of the people they go to meet.
SPC Sarkady is really the ‗Big Brain‘ of the team. He is able to wrap his head around a lot of the intelligence in a
way that helps it make sense to the rest of the team. PFC Stakem is the calm, collected one who is able to see the battle
field in a unique light. SGT Benson is the one who wants to do everything to get the bad guys. The three of them, as the
CoIST, collectively assist the Commander with planning and execution of operations whether it be from JBB, or out on the
ground.
SGTs Weed and Thorpe are the key players for the Command Post.
These two individuals came on board a little later than the rest of us and
quickly integrated themselves as crucial members of the team. Their different
military experiences and backgrounds do nothing but enhance the mission
effectiveness of the Battery. They add their take on many of the intel-driven
operations and have been able to assist with them on several occasions. While
the CoIST is focusing on the intel driving the fight, the CP is focusing on
tracking it. The two teams together make sure that everything happening on the
battle field is tracked, assessed and exploited from every angle.
SGT Marcus Benson
HHB COIST NCOIC
PFC Stakem pulling security with SPC Greene
outside a local nationals home

7. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 7
Members of the Gator Family,
Greetings from Joint Base Balad, Iraq, I hope this letter finds you all doing well. We have just completed our third
month of the deployment and morale is still high. The Gators continue to take the fight to the enemy at every turn, denying
him refuge, and preventing his attacks against Joint Base Balad. The Gator‘s positive influence is felt by those both inside
and outside Joint Base Balad. These men continue to develop their skills and improve their abilities at a variety of tasks on
a daily basis working to make the Gators the best outfit it can be. The heat of the Iraqi summer continues with daytime
highs reaching over 120 degrees in the shade, marking the hottest part of summer. August also was marked by being the
Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan. During this month Muslims fast during daylight hours and adjust their daily schedules
accordingly. At sunset they have a large ceremonial meal known as Iftar to mark the end of that day‘s fasting.
These traditions impacted the way the Gators conducted our day to day business during this month. Many
meetings with key local leaders were shortened or held after sunset to be respectful of those who fast. Additionally, many
Gators were privileged to be invited to Iftar
dinners with various local Sheiks and Iraqi
Security Force leaders.
Gator Soldiers continue to lead the
way. The Gators still lay claim to the Red
Dragon NCO of the Month with SGT Velasco
earning the coveted honor for August. R&R
leave began this month and I know those
selected to go this month were glad to get
home and get some well deserved rest and
relaxation. August also marked a change in
leadership for 3rd Platoon, 1LT Anthony
Forstner transferred leadership of Blue Platoon
to 1LT Brian Degen on the 23rd. 1LT Forstner
moves to 1-5 CAV from where 1LT Degen
came. No stranger to the Red Dragons, 1LT
Degen served on the Battalion staff for five
months in 2010. I welcome him and his Family
into the Gator Family and wish the Forstner
Family the best of luck in all things. I continue
CPT Hammond checking the area on a dismounted patrol to be impressed with the skill, stamina, poise,
and initiative of the Gators; there is no other
outfit I‘d rather be in.
Each and every member of the Gators continues to look forward to the road ahead as we get a little closer to
completing the mission and coming home every day. We thank you for your continued thoughts, prayers, love and support.
I personally want to thank you again for what you mean to these men.
Very Respectfully,
Bryan S. Hammond
CPT, FA Commanding 3 Sept. – SPC Ritchie Nielson and his wife, Katie
10 Sept. – SPC Rafael Resendiz and his wife, Kenia
Gator 6
11 Sept. – PFC Phillip Fouqette and his wife, Victoria
15 Sept. – SSG Christopher Rifenbury and his wife, Kelly

8. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 8
It‘s been another exciting month in Iraq, with multiple accomplishments by the Gator Battery and 1st Platoon.
Gator Red continues to lead the way having fired the first artillery rounds downrange for the Red Dragon Battalion during
Operation New Dawn. The artillery missions were the first in the battalion and the only artillery rounds fired in the
Division‘s area of operations. This gives everyone from the platoon to the brigade a new, highly effective tool to use while
in country. We continue to prove that artillerymen are flexible and adaptable by maintaining our maneuver patrols in the
area and being able to fire artillery; we‘re like the post office, we always deliver.
The weather continues to be what everyone expects it to be in Iraq: Hot! The temperature should begin to drop
sometime next month. PT continues to be conducted almost daily and the boys are doing well and looking fit. On the me-
dia front, look for brigade to be publishing an article on the great things Gator Red is accomplishing in the Artillery world;
I do not have a time table on it, but it gives you something to look for-
ward to.
As always, the men appreciate the letters and packages you have
been sending, especially the food; they can‘t get enough of that stuff.
Enjoy the last bit of summer as the new school year begins and know
that your men in this platoon are doing great; we‘ll also ensure they have
time to contact you via email or a phone call as often as possible. Stay
safe and keep us in your thoughts, Gator Red 6 out.
1LT Michael Hobgood
1st Platoon Leader
SGT Cornier pulling security during dismounted patrol
2nd PLT has been keeping busy since you heard from us last. A
lot has been going on in the Gator area over the last month. The
Soldiers‘ hard work is paying off as SGT Shepard joined the ranks of the NCO Corps early in August and SGT Velasco
recently won the Battalion NCO of the Month board! In addition to missions, everyone has been working hard inside the
wire in preparation for the Physical Fitness Test coming up quickly in October. NCO‘s have taken turns leading the
platoon through vigorous PT sessions that include cardio, muscular strength/endurance and functional fitness. You‘re
barely going to be able to recognize your Soldier by the time he comes back.
Gator White Platoon recently went through services in the month of August. During this time they conducted a
comprehensive refit period in which they rest and prepare for future missions. All of the vehicles go through extended
maintenance while the Soldiers perform their own refit. Each Soldier
went through all the battery and battalion sections and made sure their
medical records, finance, security clearance, administrative data,
etcetera were updated while cleaning and inspecting equipment to make
sure it is ready to go for future missions. The platoon was also able to
catch up on some much needed rest, talk to their loved ones, and take care
of any other individual business that the Soldiers may have had.
It hasn‘t been a complete walk in the park for the platoon, though.
They‘ve been out winning the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people on
their daily missions while trying to stay cool in the sweltering heat.
It hasn‘t been as bad of late, with some days‘ temperatures only in the low
110s! Until next month, keep your Soldier in your prayers as we move
one month closer to completing the mission.
SGT Velasco working with the Iraqi Army
2LT Scott Smith while conducting a dismounted patrol
2nd Platoon Leader

9. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 9
Gator Blue has been keeping busy since you heard from us last. A lot has been going on in the Gator area over the
last month. The guys are working harder than ever at keeping enemy attacks down. In addition to missions, everyone has
been working hard inside the wire in preparation for the Physical Fitness Test and the coming up quickly in October.
3rd Platoon had a good old fashioned BBQ last week; it was a great turn-out and every Soldier really enjoyed
themselves. I think the BBQ always helps the morale in the platoon. SGT Alvarez is studying to win the NCO of the Year
board that he will be attending in the coming months; he has the support of the whole platoon. Overall, Gator Blue Platoon
is in the fight and will always be ready to go.
Congratulations go out to the seven Soldiers in the platoon who were awarded Combat Action Badges during the
month of August. SGT Rodriguez was awarded an Army Achievement Medal (AAM) on 1 August for getting nominated
NCO of the Quarter in July. PFC Leddick, another outstanding asset to the platoon, was awarded a Certificate Of Achieve-
ment (COA) on 1 August for being the Soldier of the month during June.
The platoon has gone through some changes this month. 1LT Forstner is leaving the platoon and will now become
a Fire Support Officer with our sister battalion, 1-5 CAV. He has done a lot for our platoon and we wish him well in his
new position. 1LT Degen, myself, will be the new Gator Blue 6. I arrived to Alpha Battery from C Company, 1-5 CAV,
where I was the Company Fire Support Officer.
Just arriving here from 1-5 CAV, I am already impressed with the Platoon. Their professionalism and motivation
to get things complete is outstanding. They made sure everything was ready for my first mission with them. For a little
about myself, I have a bachelors in Management Information Systems from Park University and, shortly after finishing my
degree, I decided to join the Army. I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters in Missouri. I look forward to meeting all of you when
we get back from deployment. Until then, I will put forth the effort that your Soldiers expect from their leader.
1LT Brian Degen
3rd Platoon Leader
CPL Vazquez giving muffins to local children

10. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 10
Hello from Joint Base Balad. We hope everyone at home is doing well and enjoying the last of their summer as
school starts again. The temperatures are beginning to drop here, thankfully, into somewhat cooler temperatures. While
109 may not seem cool, we can definitely feel the difference from 125. Everyone over here is doing well and has fully
settled into their jobs.
Headquarters Platoon continues to set the maneuver platoons up for success. Under the leadership of SSG Torie
Williams, the headquarters coordinates command and control to and from battalion, coordinating for assets and keeping the
maneuver platoons successful in their missions. New SSGs Fred Williams and Jonathan Sikes have helped lead the troops
in their skill sets and jobs. SGT Glendell Evans manages a shift while performing the vital task of managing all the Battery
interpreters and assisting the Platoon Leader in setting up Key Iraqi Nationals in the Bazaar. The Radio and Telephone Op-
erators (RTO) continue to handle their duties with competence and motivation. PV2 Juan Escobar has especially stood out
in his role as an RTO. SGT Justin Netherland and PFC Frank Blas continue to handle large amounts of property, ensuring
the platoons have everything they need to succeed, while preparing for future missions. New coming SPC Kevin Kruger
has handled the battery arms room with a skill belying his rank. Finally, SPC Jeffery Quinn and SPC Brian Allen have pro-
vided the battery with mail and accurate personnel accounting while helping the Battery finish awards for all the
Soldiers.
HQ Platoon sent five Soldiers home on EML this month, and will send two more in September. All the Soldiers
who go on EML look forward to seeing their Family and friends. Although we are happy for them and look forward to our
own EML, these Soldiers are severely missed here while they are gone. We look forward to the day when we see everyone
back safe at Fort Hood, having successfully completed Operation New Dawn.
2LT Caleb Gaasch
HQ Platoon Leader
5 Sept. – PFC Fenske, Thomas
15 Sept. – PFC Brickner, Jacob
15 Sept. – SFC Gray, David
21Sept. – SSG Sikes, Jonathan
30 Sept. – SPC Resendiz, Rafael
PFC Padden during a dismounted patrol

11. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 11
Thunder Family and friends, it is an honor for me to tell you all that your Soldiers here are doing great things.
Your Soldiers, on a daily basis, advise and assist the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) to ensure that the ISF are as prepared as
possible for when the United States Forces leave Iraq as per the Iraq/U.S. security agreement. Your Soldiers have con-
ducted
combined patrols with the ISF, taught forensics classes with the ISF, and assisted them in tactical operations center man-
agement. Your Soldiers have seen a great improvement in the capability of our ISF brethren and have taken pride in im-
proving their capabilities. I‘m also happy to report that morale here at the Samarra Joint Coordination Center (SJCC) is still
high. Your Soldiers are allotted the time to call you all at home, in which your support is vital to their morale staying high
here.
I‘d also like to recognize Mrs. Elizabeth Bartley for being named volunteer of the month. She has done an excellent
job with the Thunder Families at Ft. Hood, and the Thunder Soldiers, especially me, are more than thankful for her contin-
ued efforts to support the Thunder Family Readiness Group.
Lastly, we had a Thunder Soldier leave the battery and battalion to represent our Battery in a different Battalion.
1LT O‘Donnell, an outstanding Platoon Leader, was selected to represent the ‗Red Dragons‘ as a Company Fire Support
Officer for the ‗Black Knights‘ of 1-5 CAV. He has done an
excellent job as a Thunder Platoon Leader, and I have no doubt he will succeed as a fire support officer. 1LT Kevin
Conners, from HHC, 1-5 CAV, will be taking over as 1st Platoon‘s leader; I‘d like to give him a warm welcome to the
battery. The Thunder Family and friends would like to thank you for your contributions to Thunder—you have greatly
assisted in our success as a Battery.
Very Respectfully,
Jason A. Williams
CPT, FA Commanding
Thunder 6
11 Sept. — PFC Garcia
24 Sept. — SSG Santiago
29 Sept. — PV2 Schnider
CPT Williams on patrol through Samarra with Iraqi leaders and with
LTC Cook (far left) and COL Peeler

12. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 12
Thunder White Platoon has had an eventful month providing security for the battery and battalion leadership
throughout the Salah Ad Din province. White Platoon has worked diligently to ensure our Iraqi counterparts are trained and
proficient to assume sole responsibility for the security
of the province in the near future. We have continued
the weekly functional fitness challenges pushing each
Soldier to achieve fitness excellence while putting a
competitive spin on it. The platoon continues to set the
standard in tactical and technical proficiency,
conducting weekly training on our artillery and warrior
skills. SPC Curtis attended the promotion board this
month and has been selected for promotion to sergeant;
he has since been latterly promoted to the rank of
corporal and has assumed responsibility of the battery‘s
Tactical Operations Center (TOC) as the day shift
NCOIC. CPL Curtis was also presented with the award
for the Brigade Soldier of the Week for actions during
the month of June. This month we welcomed SGT Stahl 1LT O‘Donnell Leading his soldiers during a dismounted patrol
and PFC Nolasco from Headquarters Platoon to White
Platoon as well.
1LT Michael O‘Donnell
1st Platoon Leader
Thunder Headquarters platoon has done an outstanding job of upgrading our compound since we arrived here in
early June. SSG Mitchell and SGT Gifford have worked diligently to make Samarra an enjoyable place to live. Both the
day and night shifts of the battery operations center have done a fantastic job coordinating with our Iraqi counterparts and
ensuring that all battery operations run smoothly.
SSG Welch and PFC Lyon have joined 2LT Murphy and
SPC Clemeno on the Company Intelligence Sustainment Team
(COIST). The new team members have substantially increased
the COIST capabilities. They work hand in hand with our Law
Enforcement Professional, Mr. Charles Matthews from Arlington,
Texas. The COIST has worked tirelessly to uncover terrorist
networks in the Samarra area and to exploit evidence brought to
the Samarra Joint Coordination Center (SJCC) by our Iraqi
brothers. We would like to congratulate SGT Parker for
re-enlisting on August 24th and furthering his Army career.
The men are most appreciative for the constant prayers
and support from everyone back home. We all miss you and keep
you in our thoughts.
PFC Lyon teaching Soldiers how to gather evidence 2LT Sean Murphy
COIST Leader

13. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 13
Greetings, friends and loved ones of Gladiators! August has been an eventful month for our company. Whether
partnering with Iraqi Security Forces or sustaining our Battalion, the fact remains that our Soldiers are being challenged in new
and different ways on a daily basis.
Your efforts to maintain contact with our Soldiers has not gone without mention. Your continued support is evident in
your Facebook posts, letters, and care packages that are sent to our Soldiers. Remember that getting mail is one of the most sig-
nificant morale boosters Soldiers have while deployed, so keep the packages coming. You may also be interested to know that
Environmental Leave (known to some as R&R) has begun for our Soldiers. If your Soldier has not already been home, expect to
see him or her in the approaching months.
Our company is well into its mission to support the battalion‘s operational needs and still they are making their impact
on the transition to a safer, more secure Iraq. Headquarters Platoon is mission-focused on the priority of ensuring all personnel at
the Samarra Joint Coordination Center are sustained fully with Class I (food and water). The Distribution Platoon has the duty to
consolidate and deliver all classes of supply and personnel to our Soldiers in a more austere location in Samarra. This is no easy
feat with the prevalent enemy threat, but the mission is accomplished. The Maintenance Platoon continues to turn wrenches and
complete services, ensuring that all vehicles and equipment are maintained in a mission-ready stance. We have also added a
facet to their mission by training members of the Iraqi Security Forces on properly maintaining their equipment. This partnership
will only reinforce the bond we share with the Iraqi Army, and further the ISF maintenance skill sets.
Very Respectfully,
Crystal E. Chatman
CPT, LG Commanding
Gladiator 6
5 Sept. — SPC Graves
9 Sept. — SPC Humphrey
10 Sept. — PFC Denton
12 Sept. — SPC Malone
18 Sept. — SGT Gafford
19 Sept. — SPC Buchanan CPT Chatman and CPT Saddiq in the Golf FSC Motor Pool Bay
20 Sept. — 2LT Fonk
22 Sept. — SPC Manansala
23 Sept.— SPC Clark
23 Sept.— PFC Cook
24 Sept. — SPC Thornton
24 Sept. — PV2 Brady

14. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 14
As the month of August draws to a close, the Headquarters Platoon has
accomplished numerous tasks ensuring that we support the overall mission for Golf
Company and the ‗Red Dragon‘ Battalion.
First off, SPC Steadmon and his supply section have worked tirelessly day in and
day out to support the company with the ordering of supplies and ensuring proper
accountability of the battery‘s equipment. They are currently working diligently on the plan
to turn in over $10 million worth of combat equipment throughout the coming months .
Next, SPC Malone and the orderly room staff have spent countless hours working
on awards. They have processed over 53% of the current awards for the company,
ensuring our Soldiers get recognized for their dedication and hard work throughout the
deployment.
Working the field feeding mission, SGT Taylor and his 92G (cook) Soldiers have
ordered over 9,000 meals in order to support the operations at the Samarra Joint
Coordination Center (SJCC). This facilitates dining facility operations and feeding personnel
at Samarra, led by SSG Martin with PFC Simmons and SPC Drayton as assistants, to sup-
port the Soldiers and contracted civilians. SGT Stoller has been working vigorously to pro- SPC Wallace conducts a
vide the maneuver platoon with the most valuable and current intelligence information for technical inspection on a .50
their upcoming missions. This provides the Maneuver Platoon with the knowledge of the
Caliber Machine Gun
areas surrounding Joint Base Balad and gives them situational awareness in the areas they
will patrol. PFC Legardo has been working closely with SGT Taylor to ensure that Soldiers
are getting letters and packages from their loved ones. They have picked up and distributed over 3,000 letters/packages. This
has boosted the Soldiers‘ morale and helps them get through their working day faster. So please, keep sending the letters and
packages to your loved ones. As always, we‘re keeping friends and Family in our thoughts and look forward to coming home.
2LT Hoang Le
XO/HQ Platoon Leader
This month, Distribution Platoon has contributed to the success of Golf Company
through patrolling the streets of Southern Salah Ad Din, serving as a Quick Reactionary
Force (QRF) and pushing tactical logistics to ‗Red Dragons‘ in Samarra. The challenges we
face in accomplishing each mission has only caused the Soldiers of the Gladiator Red ele-
ment to grow closer. Because so much of our mission is leveraged on team work and team
building, we have become a more cohesive platoon. We have also combined our efforts with
the Iraqi Security Forces, ensuring our presence and combined missions are effective against
any malicious activity that may hinder the development of a safe and more secure Iraq. The
local populace
recognizes the faces of the ‗Red Dragons‘ and understands the dynamics of a fruitful
partnership. During our down time, we work out at the gym, read the letters we get from our
loved ones, or catch up on the latest in sports and news. We also enjoy the baked goods that
are prepared with love and sent to us so we can enjoy a home cooked treat! We may have to
spend more time in the gym burning the calories we eat, but, overall, we are happy to get
anything sent from our Families!
SPC Buchanan securing his 2LT Matthew Cline
sector on a dismounted patrol Distribution Platoon Leader

15. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 15
Wow! August flew by with the platoon completing task after task and planning for the upcoming weeks;
Maintenance Platoon has had a busy month. The month began with support operations of repairing and preparing the
M109A6 Paladins for the first live fire of Operation New Dawn. All the preparations required long hours under the hot sun
to complete total technical inspections and repairs on the equipment to be fully operational. They did it! Hot guns were
emplaced and shots were fired from the Paladins. The hard work and time paid off.
Maintenance platoon also strengthened their Iraqi partnership by training with the 17th Iraqi Army Brigade on High
Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV). Overall, the training was a success in that it gave our Soldiers an
opportunity for showcasing their skill sets while serving in the advise, train, and assist capacity.
The days are becoming regimented for our Maintenance Platoon as they work tirelessly at accomplishing our
mission and keeping our equipment mission-ready. No two deployments are the same, but as our Soldiers acquire combat
experience, one can see that, although the Maintenance Platoon is filled with combat veterans who have extensive
deployment experience, first-time deployers also have their outlook on the new experience. SPC Sala from Cebu, Philip-
pines stated, ―This deployment (my first) has shown me a lot of new skills which should prove valuable in future deploy-
ments.‖
As our Soldiers continue to sacrifice their time, they garner experience that they wouldn‘t have had serving the
United States. We all know that it would be much more difficult to gain this valuable deployment experience without the
support from our Families back home. I thank you for that and we will always keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
2LT Amanda Fonk
Maintenance Platoon Leader
SGT Modock teaches 17th Iraqi Army BDE Mechanics on the
M1114 HMMWV wiring schematic

16. Page 16 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
Greetings from the Red Dragon Religious Support Team (RST)! Another month has passed for you without your
Soldier. That, however, also means you are one month closer to getting your Soldier back from this deployment. Some of
you have been experiencing the joy of having your Soldiers come home for Environmental Leave (EML). Most of you
have not had that brief reunion yet…but you will. So, rejoice with those who have experienced it and anticipate your own
experiences of the same.
Many changes occur even over short periods of time. You have changed and so have your Soldiers. Change itself
is usually neither good nor bad. But change is stressful no matter what the circumstance or outcome, even the change as-
sociated with having your Soldier back for fifteen or so days of leave. Change is the only thing that does not change. So,
you can expect to notice changes in your Soldiers and expect they will notice changes in you as well. The greatest issue
with changes that occur during deployment is that Soldiers and their Families are changing independently of each other.
That makes handling the change more challenging because both Soldiers and Families get acquainted with the changes all
at once instead of gradually as they happen. Everyone knows the plane bringing Soldiers home on leave is not a time ma-
chine; nevertheless, it can still be overwhelming to see that May, 2011 is long gone.
During pre-leave briefings, we cover the topic of change and how to handle it over the leave period. We hopefully
and prayerfully share these tips with you as well. First, change occurs over time. Give yourself time to digest change
before trying to ―fix‖ it. Fifteen days is not enough time to sufficiently understand months worth of change, so relax and
enjoy your leave. Second, assume change is good, positive, and necessary. Fifteen days is not enough time to determine if
the changes are bad, negative, and unnecessary. Third, do not make
potential, or actual, life altering decisions under the stress associated with
the sudden realization of change. Finally, express love and affection often.
Making the show of love a top priority leaves little time to brood over all
that change you may encounter. Leave is only fifteen days so give and
receive love while you have the chance.
Thanks for all you have to do so that your Soldiers can be here
accomplishing the mission at hand.
CPT Darrell Burriss
3-82 FA Chaplain
―Red Dragons!‖
3-82 FA Chaplain, CPT Burriss, and his assistant,
Red Dragon Strong Warriors of the Week PFC Kim
August Newborns!
PFC Michael Warren of HHB 26 July—2 Aug. SGT Pettyjohn of Golf Company and his wife,
Jessica, on the birth of their daughter, Lilly Ann —born 2
August!
SGT Jarrett Giddens of Bravo Battery 3 Aug.—10 Aug. SPC JC Vanpelt of HHB and his wife, Amanda,
recently had their daughter, Avery—born on 30 July!
PFC Freddie King of HHB and his wife, Deanna, re-
2LT Amanda Fonk of Golf Company 11 Aug.—18 Aug. cently had their daughter, Kadence Rose-Marie—born on
17 August!
SGT Elliot Omanson of HHB and his wife, Aubrey, re-
SPC Ricardo Williams of HHB 19 Aug.– 26 Aug. cently had their daughter, Evelyn—born on 15 August!
SPC O‘Malley of Bravo Battery and his wife, Lacey,
gave birth to their son, Connor, on 14 Aug.

17. Page 17 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter
Rear Detachment Letter
Soldiers, Families, and Friends,
Another awesome month has passed, and another month closer to your Soldiers returning! This past month I have
seen an awesome transition through the Families and Family Readiness Groups in truly making this a team effort to ensure
everyone is taken care. The constructive efforts, questions, and support has been growing, and I commend you all on your
tireless work. I know it will only continue to improve as we grow together as a team helping our fellow Families and our
Soldiers forward.
Thank you for all your work in supporting our pot luck dinner during our Red Dragon Family Night in August! I
hope you all enjoyed the food, information, our awesome guest speaker (Dave the Brigade Military and Family Life Con-
sultant), and discussion. I want to thank you for aggressively nominating me as Dave‘s volunteer as my wife appreciated
the flower! I hope to see an even greater turnout in September; always feel free to make suggestions for anyone or any
resource/program you would like as our guest speaker.
The Back-to-School Pool Party on 19 August was an amazing event and a chance to escape the heat while
enjoying some good food and even better company! Thank you all who made this event possible for those who attended.
We will continue to execute fun events every quarter, so look for the next one in emails from your FRGs and through
Facebook.
Your Soldiers continue to work hard each and everyday because of your support. I am in constant contact with the
forward unit, and I hear nothing but positive things about the work they are accomplishing. I hope you are proud of what
they are doing as they advise and assist their Iraqi counterparts in Joint Base Balad and Samarra. They are equally as proud
of you for holding down the home front and taking care of your children and Families!
As issues or questions arise, remember to use your FRG Leaders and Rear Detachment and we will assist you in
any way possible. Keep up the great work!
Red Dragons!
CPT Chris Freeman
Rear Detachment Commander
Great Support Services
Relocation Assistance: 254-213-2857
AER Assistance: 254-213-3991
Military Family Life Consultants: 254-213-2857
Chaplain On-Duty: 254-213-3967
Chaffee Child Development Center
TJ Mills Boulevard, Bldg 198
254-287-4749
FRG hosting a back-to-school pool party
Rear Detachment Upcoming Events
8 Sep 2011 — Red Dragon Family Night @ 5:30 PM @ Oveta Culp
3 Oct 2011 — Town Hall Meeting @ 6:00 PM — Location TBD

18. 3-82 FA Red Dragon Newsletter Page 18
SGT Clair (Alpha) re-enlisted for 4 more years of service
SGT Parker (Bravo) re-enlisted for 5 more years of service
PFC Ashe (HHB) SPC Manansala (Golf) CPL Curtis (Bravo) SSG Williams (Alpha)
1 Aug 1 Aug 18 Aug 1 Aug
PFC Cook (Golf) SPC Wallace (Golf) SSG Sikes (Alpha)
9 Aug 1 Aug 1 Aug
PFC Juan Escobar (Alpha) SPC Green (HHB)
27 Aug 1 Aug
SPC Beck (HHB)
1 Aug
SPC Browning (HHB)
6 Aug * * * Come one come all!!! * * *
SPC Ybarra (HHB) Buy your Red Dragon T-Shirt today!
14 Aug
SPC Kodep (Golf)
Only $10
Contact the Rear Detachment Commander
21 Aug
to get yours today!
CPT Hammond and 1SG Minton promoting SSG Sikes and
SSG Williams