Courtesy Photo | (Chap.) Maj. Claude Brittian, senior chaplain for the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment,...... read more read more
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BABIL, Iraq – As the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment places great emphasis on its daily missions in Operation New Dawn, it is also focusing on the health and welfare of the soldiers it tasks to perform those missions.
In a recent ceremony on Contingency Operating Site Kalsu, senior leaders of the regiment, joined by the senior leaders of the 36th Infantry Division and a large group of local soldiers and leaders, cut the ribbon opening the new COS Kalsu Resiliency Center.
Plans for the center’s development began shortly after the regiment assumed responsibility for COS Kalsu. Now open, new features will continue to be added under the regiment’s supervision.
“We will continue to make improvements to the center as funds and more equipment become available,” said Col. Reginald E. Allen, commander of the 3rd ACR.
Currently, the center provides soldiers with access to a relaxation room, computers with webcam capability so soldiers can visually communicate with their families, as well as a library. Soldiers can also use the United Through Reading program, allowing them to record themselves reading children’s books and send the video to family.
“This center is the best thing on Kalsu,” said Sgt. Justin E. Parker, a supervisor for the center assigned to Supply and Transportation Troop, Regimental Support Squadron, 3rd ACR, and a native of Seattle. “The internet is really fast, and even the video connection is flawless.”
The center hosted a recent Functional Academic Skills Training course, which allowed students to raise their ASVAB scores, opening new possibilities for their future service.
Other physical health related courses are held in the center’s education room.
“We will hold smoking cessation, relaxation, and anger management courses here in the center,” said Spc. Luis A. Rosado, a mental health specialist assigned to the 883rd Combat Stress Detachment. “These courses will show soldiers how to cope with the stresses of the deployed environment.”
Soldiers on Kalsu now have a place to go to get some quiet time to themselves, share some counsel with fellow soldiers, and even receive specialized training and assistance if needed.
“It is my hope and intent that this center will foster greater collective strength,” said Allen. “This collective strength is the key to resiliency in all our ‘Brave Rifle’ men and women.”
| Date Taken: | 03.05.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 03.05.2011 03:41 |
| Story ID: | 66525 |
| Location: | BABIL PROVINCE, IQ |
| Web Views: | 134 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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