Photo By Staff Sgt. Felix Mena | Attendees pose for a group photo at the conclusion of the Building Strong and Ready...... read more read more
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LAS CRUCES, N.M. — The 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment Unit Ministry Team (UMT) recently hosted a three-day “Building Strong and Ready Teams” (BSRT) event at the Hotel Encanto in Las Cruces, New Mexico, aimed at enhancing communication and conflict resolution skills for single Soldiers and Army families. Led by Chaplain (Cpt.) Joshua Gorczyca and Pvt. Jose Suarez, the event provided a platform for participants to strengthen their character and foster relationships built on trust and teamwork. The BSRT program is a key initiative within the U.S. Army, focusing on the holistic well-being of Soldiers and their families.
The event utilized a variety of interactive methods to engage participants. Through guided discussions, practical exercises, and real-world scenario applications, attendees were encouraged to reflect on their personal and professional relationships. This reflection served as a catalyst for identifying areas of growth and implementing strategies for improving communication and conflict resolution. The program addressed a wide range of relationship dynamics, including marital relationships, professional interactions within the Army, and the personal resilience required to navigate life's challenges. The focus on practical application ensured that participants left with actionable tools they could immediately implement daily.
"This is our second BSRT event," said Sgt. Flor Luu, who attended the event with her husband Staff Sgt. Mark Luu. "We're a young couple, both in the Army, we struggle a lot. When we come to these events it reminds us that we are a team and we're in this together."
"Being in the Army changes your perspective," said Staff Sgt. Mark Luu. "Sometimes the reason we argue is that we forget to be human. This event allowed us time to reconnect with each other in a beautiful environment. We had some one-on-one time with the Chaplain which allowed us to get more in-depth and personal."
The U.S. Army's commitment to building strong and ready teams is evident in its investment in programs like BSRT. These programs recognize that the strength of the Army is not solely dependent on physical readiness, but also on the emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being of its soldiers and families. By equipping individuals with the skills to build and maintain healthy relationships, the Army fosters a culture of trust and cohesion, essential for mission success.
"In the demanding and often unpredictable world of military service, readiness is not just about physical fitness or technical proficiency, it is also about the strength of our relationships and the resilience of our teams," stated Chaplain (Cpt.) Joshua Gorczyca. "The most rewarding aspects of this BSRT event was witnessing Soldiers and their Family Members engage in meaningful conversations that led to real breakthroughs. Many couples reenforced relationships of trust through open healing dialogue."
The BSRT event, situated in the serene environment of the Hotel Encanto, provided a conducive setting for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and personal growth. The event's success highlighted the vital role of the UMT in supporting the overall readiness of the 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment. By addressing the diverse needs of single Soldiers and Army families, the team contributed to building a more resilient and cohesive unit. The skills learned during the BSRT event are expected to have a lasting impact on the participants' personal and professional lives, fostering stronger relationships and enhancing their ability to navigate challenges.
"One key takeaway for soldiers from the BSRT is that, amidst all the hard work and dedication they put into their jobs and the Army, they must also remember to invest the same effort into themselves and their families. Attending events like these provides an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones and gain valuable insights from the chaplain," added Religious Affairs Specialist, Pvt. Jose Suarez. "My favorite part of the BSRT event was the combination of sleeping and eating, as well as getting the chance to explore New Mexico."
United States Army Unit Ministry Teams, comprised of chaplains and religious affairs specialists, play a crucial role in providing spiritual support, counseling, and programs that enhance the resilience of the force. The U.S. Army Chaplain Corps, dating back to 1775, ensures the free exercise of religion for all soldiers, while also providing critical support in areas such as moral leadership and ethical development. As participants returned to Fort Bliss, they carried with them not only new knowledge and skills but also a renewed sense of connection and commitment to building strong and ready teams within their unit and beyond.
| Date Taken: | 03.10.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.11.2025 16:09 |
| Story ID: | 492430 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 36 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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