Monday, November 25, 2013

We'll be rooting for 14 N.C. high school students at All American Bowl 2014!!

Freeman Jones accepts his invitation to AAB on Nov 25, 2013.
Sitting is (l-r) Sgt. 1st Class Michael Nelson (ASB speaker), Capt. Ben Bagwell and Staff Sgt. Fred Sherrick.

Story and photo
by Ron Toland
Raleigh Recruiting Battalion


The All American Bowl Selection Tour rolled through the Raleigh Recruiting Battalion footprint, traveling to chosen high schools across the battalion, in November.

The tour was the official invitation for football players and/or band members. Fourteen students from our surrounding schools were selected to participate in the 2014 All American Bowl in San Antonia, Texas.

Friday, November 1, 2013

An note from Ops.--Sgt. Major Rieger


ONE TEAM, ONE FIGHT

This is something we have heard for our entire time in the Army.  It has been re-enforced during the past decade plus of continuous war.  No nation, no military, no service, no branch alone can win a war.  Now we fight jointly with other countries and other services.  It has become part of us.  As recruiting moves forward, we have moved away from the individual mission and have embraced this team first mentality to the benefit of all in the command.  USAREC is the Army.  The mission you have is one of, if not, the most, important ones the Army faces everyday-providing the force that will fight and win in the future.  I hope you feel the importance and are proud of the work you do to make this mission every phase line.  There is no rest from this mission.  It will go on as long as there is a United States Army.  As we fight to fulfill this mission, we strive for excellence by working to our potential and doing things the right way!  This is only achieved when we consistently achieve our mission and take care of our team.  Even with all the changes the battalion continually goes through, you have continued to excel.  During 4th quarter, the battalion finished 108% RA and 100% AR for 107% combined, enlisting 877 new Soldiers to the Army.  For FY 13, you fought back to finish the RA 100%, AR 82% and 97% combined, enlisting 2989.  A phenomenal number!!  You have started FY 14 very strong achieving 106% RA, 161% AR, and 111% combined while adjusting to the net mission.  The great thing is that we are poised to make this a standard by holding strong to some Army fundamentals:  Continued Teamwork, outstanding Leadership, and the desire to win!!
One of the strengths of this Command is everyone is a leader.  Officers and Noncommissioned Officers are leaders by definition.  Whether you are a company leader, center leader, Soldier leader, or community leader, hold strong to your duties and responsibilities.  Never rely on someone else to pick up the slack.  Always do the right thing and ensure others do too.  Be the difference maker in your organization.  The Army Values and NCO Creed provide us the guidelines for want to do and how to live.  If we do, we cannot go wrong.  Especially with our geographical dispersion, it takes great leaders to accomplish our difficult mission.  The battalion commander, LTC Greer, has given us our mission and has empowered each leader through Mission Command to do what it takes to achieve it.

Mission: The Raleigh Recruiting Battalion meets or exceeds its annual recruitment mission by recruiting qualified men and women within our area of responsibility, providing strength to our Nation's Army, while balancing recruitment operations with quality of life for all Soldiers, civilians and family members.

I believe Leadership makes the difference.   So I charge each of you to be the leader that makes that difference.

The other aspect of the American Soldier that I see in our formation is the desire to win!!  Here at the battalion, we look at the numbers and we can predict how the mission will finish.  The thing the numbers do not tell is your desire to win.  The Soldiers’ Creed is alive and well in Raleigh battalion, especially the Warrior Ethos.  These are not just words to you; they are what we live by every day.   You clearly have the mission first, you will never accept defeat or quit, and you do not leave anyone behind. 

We will continue to face challenges but with communication we can overcome them.  We must always strive to improve.  Everyone and every team must do their part for us to be successful.   Your desire and passion for the Army will carry us to all of our goals.

I am very proud to be part of the Raleigh Recruiting Battalion and work with such outstanding, dedicated Warriors.  Continue to do the right things and take care of each other.  I promise the battalion staff will work just as hard and be just as dedicated to supporting you and achieving the mission.  Thank you for all of your hard work.  Please let your Families know their dedication and sacrifice is greatly appreciated as well. 

Bulldawgs!!  Army Strong!!

Friday, October 18, 2013

Career Development Class at Cedar Ridge

Durham recruiters conducted a Career Development Class at Cedar Ridge High School Sept. 16, to educate students and teachers about Army Reserve and ROTC benefits for college.
 



Spring Lake recruiters tandem jump with Golden Knights

Spring Lake recruiters Sgts. 1st Class Moon and Smith, and Staff Sgt. Balbido, jumped in tandem with the Army Golden Knights, Aug. 19, in Laurinburg, N.C.
The three NCOs earned the privilege of jumping with Army’s parachutist team by winning the battalion board.

Cary Center Recruiter Receives Distinguished Honor Grad


Congratulations to Sgt.(P) Timothy Phillips, who was recognized as Distinguished Honor Graduate while attending the Advanced Leaders Course, Aug. 4 through Sept. 24, 2013, at the Signal Regimental Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, Fort Gordon, Ga.
 
He achieved a GPA of 97.14% and was recognised as the student who encompassed the Army's "Total Soldier Concept."
 
Sgt. Phillips served as squad leader and platoon sergeant and coordinated a five hour volunteer event that pushed the class over a combined total of 250 volunteer hours.

Kannapolis Recruiters volunteer with Habitat For Humanity

Kannapolis recruiters joined other volunteers of Habitat For Humanity to help build homes for local families in need in Concord, N.C. Sept. 21.

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL?

We wrapped up  the Friday Night Football after sponsoring six high school football games and educator luncheons across Raleigh, Charlotte and Fayetteville.  Teachers and staff from the six schools received an ESS briefing during lunch and the during the games, recruiters were able to engage students and discuss enlistment options.




To see the full set of photos from the series, go to:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/us_army_recruiting_raleigh/sets/72157635916609016/

U.S. Army photos by Ron Toland

Thursday, September 26, 2013

New Bern Center implements awards program for recruiters



The New Bern ACC implemented an awards program for recruiters within the center as a tool to give thanks and to motivate the team to succeed, Sept. 20 during company training.
"Although we are SUR, it is equally important to reward greatness when displayed," said Sgt. Bourcier who implemented the program at the Wilmington Army Reserve Center.

This incentive not only spread motivation throughout the center, but gives recruiters incentive to have a healthy competitive center and most importantly to give thanks to the recruiters in this thankless atmosphere.

The center staff will continue to reward and recognize the center as a whole during each phase line. However, it will reward recruiters as well for displaying their hard work and dedication to the mission.

In-rank inspection with JROTC students from Person County High School

Sgt. 1st Class Middleton and retired 1st Sgt. John Coley, conducted an in-rank inspection, with JROTC students from Person County High School, Sept. 17 at the school. 
New JROTC cadets trianed on in-rank inspections and how military customs and courtesy play a major role in the U.S. Army.
 
 
Pictured above is retired 1st Sgt. John Coley conducting an in-rank inspection with JROTC students at Person County High School, Sept. 17.

Monday, September 16, 2013

Wilmington Recruiting Company Change of Command

Wilmington Recruiting Company changed command from Cpt. Paul Brooks to Cpt. George King at the USAF Recreation Center/NCNG Training site at Ft. Fisher, Sept. 13, 2013.
Before the ceremony, Cpt. Brooks was awarded the MSM.

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Recognized with Volunteer Awards for countless hours of selfless service tes

Well done Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Kenny and Sgt. Samuel Amartey!


For the last three years Sgt. 1st Class Kenny has coordinated and conducted food drives that have raised more than 1,700 pounds canned goods and non-perishable food for the local community.  He has partnered with the Easter Seals, Allstate’s Helping Hands, and The Salvation Army.  He has also served as a coach with the YMCA.

"My volunteer work is a way for me to give back," said Kenny. "I have has countless opportunities in my life that were provided by the Army and I feel that it is important to pay it forward."

Kenny explained that, the community is like "office space" and it should be left better than we found it.

Alongside, these seuccesses, Sgt. Amartey is recognized for the many volunteer roles he plays in his church and community. He has a passion for helping young people recognize and attain their potential success. He works with future business leaders on the Wake County School’s Youth Business Alliance and Youth Chambers of Commerce.  As a volunteer he helps young people develop interview skills and evens sits on a panel during mock interviews.

"Volunteering within the the community has opened doors for our recruiting efforts," Kenny said. "As recruiters, we need to make ourselves value added to the community rather than alwasy asking for things."




 
 
Raleigh Recruiting Center's Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Kenny (left) and Sgt. Samuel Amartey received the Volunteer Award in recognition of their dedication to supporting the local community and displaying true selfless service. This event was held on Aug. 2, at the Knightdale Army Reserve Center.



 

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Maj. Gen. Allen W. Batschelet visits the Sanford Forward Engagement Center

USAREC's Commanding General visits with his Recruiters and Future Soldiers


Maj. General Allen W. Batschelet made an impromptu visit with the recruiters of Fayetteville Recruiting Company's Sanford Forward Engagement Center. While there he met with the center's non-commissioned officers, who took the opportunity to discuss current recruiting trends with their new leader.



Monday, August 5, 2013

Raleigh Battalion Change of Command

The Raleigh Recruiting Battalion held a Change of Command Ceremony on Friday, Aug. 2.

Outgoing commander Lt. Col. James Hunt was honored while incoming commander Lt. Col. Dan Greer was welcomed. The ceremony and reception were held at the U.S. Army Reserve Center, Knightdale, N.C.
Col. Dave Stewart, commander of U.S. Army 2nd Recruiting Bde, passes the battalion’s guidon, indicating the passing of responsibility, to incoming commander Lt. Col. Greer.

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Family Readiness
Group

The Spring Lake Recruiting Center and Fayetteville Company participated in the FRG (Family Readiness Group) event held on 19 July in Morehead City, NC. This event helped to increase the espirit de corps and overall morale of the center.
Fun and camaraderie were had by all.


Youth Business Alliance
Staff Sgt. Taylor and Sgt. Amartey participated in the Wake County School's Youth Business Alliance held in Raleigh on July 22, 2013. The recuriters got a chance to interact with Wake County middle schools as they learned about networking, business and successful leadership skills.





Thursday, April 25, 2013

Xtreme Beginnings Career Fair

Xtreme Beginnings Career Fair

Sgt. 1st Class Thorpe, Sgt. 1st Class Stanislas, Staff Sgt. Taylor, Sgt. Amartey, and Sgt. Kaiser attend the Xtreme Beginnings Career Fair at McKimmons Center at the North Carolina State University Campus, April 18, 2013.
High school seniors from all Wake County Schools were brought to the event by their school to go through mock business interviews. These interviews are used to give them self awareness through feedback from panel members along with an idea of what to expect from corporate America once completing college or a military career.  Our NCOs served as panel members and advisors along with running a standard table setup.




 

Gates High School SASVAB Test

 
Gates High School SASVAB Test
 
 
 

Sgt. Hewett from, Elizabeth City Station, assisted a SASVAB testing session at Gates High School in April, to assist in the ASVAB testing for high school students to assess career fields of interest and strengths. Further relations with school staff and students.

Lt. Col. Hunt introduces Tony Schumacher

NHRA  "Army Day at the Races"

Charlotte Company participated in the NHRA “Army Day at the Races” with 18  Center Of Influencers from the surrounding area on  April 20, 2013,at the Zmax Dragway in Concord, N.C. The purpose was to cultivate new and existing Center Of Influencers throughout the Charlotte and Winston-Salem Company Footprints.


Top: Lt. Col.Hunt introduces Tony Schumacher; Bottom Left: SFC Caldwell works the SIAZ; Bottom Right: Ms. Dvorak, Devry Univ, poses with members of the Army crew.

NHRA Showcar visits at area high schools



                  NHRA Showcar visits area High schools


To bridge the gap between high schools and the Army, local recruiters conducted three NHRA Showcar visits at area high schools, April 15-17, 2013.  Tony Schumacher, driver of the US Army sponsored NHRA Top Fuel Dragster, and spoke with students at Central Cabarrus HS.


 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Recognition for Staff Sgt. Smith and Staff Sgt. Valladolid




   Recognition for Staff. Sgt. Smith and Staff Sgt. Valladolid





Spring Lake Center recognizes Staff Sgt. Smith and Staff Sgt. Valladolid on April 24, 2013. Both have made the FY 13 Sgt First Class  Promotion List; they will pin  E-7 on May 1, 2013 as both soldiers’ sequence numbers have been selected. The Spring Lake Center is proud of their accomplishments and wishes them continued success.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Iron Dog PT Challenge



      Iron Dog PT Challenge

To build Espirit De Corps and reaffirm their commitment to the Army, Future Soldiers participate in the Iron Dog PT Challenge on April 5, 2013 at Arnette Park, Fayetteville, N.C. 
 

Reenlistment Ceremony


       Reenlistment Ceremony


Staff Sgt. Sell of Winston Salem Company, reenlists at a reenlistment Ceremony in Winston Salem Center.


Promotion to Sgt. 1st Class


                            Promotion to SFC

Staff Sgt. Burns, Staff Sgt. Oakes, Staff Sgt Campbell, Staff Sgt. Malugin and Staff Sgt. White, from Charlotte Company, were selected for promotion to Sgt First Class on April 1, 2013. Charlotte Company continues to groom the finest NCOs for greater responsibility throughout the command.

Swearing in of Mrs. Amartey


                              Swearing in of Mrs. Amartey

Mrs. Amartey (wife of SGT Amartey – 3J3M) earned her U.S. Citizenship in Durham, N.C. on April 5, 2013Raleigh Main RC and CCG attended the swearing in of Mrs. Amartey, to show their support and celebrate.  It is extremely important as an organization, that we support and encourage our family members. 

 

Baseball Tournament



           Baseball Tournament


Rocky Mount and  Elizabeth City Centers attended a baseball tournament on April 3, 2013, to open the second annual baseball tournament as the official Color Guard for Northeast Academy in Lasker, N.C., in support of fallen troops overseas.


Career Fair



                           Career Fair

Sgt. 1st Class Casillas and Sgt. Lindstrom attended a Career Fair at Westover High school on April 8, 2013. The fair was to enlighten prospective recruits and talk about Army opportunites.



The Army Ground Forces


               The Army Ground Forces

Staff Sgt. Graham and five  Future Soldiers from the Greenville Recruiting Center had the great privilege to attend the Army Ground Forces Band Concert at East Carolina University, Greenville, N.C., March 27, 2013. Special Guest was Legendary Trumpeter Allen Vizzutti.



Future Soldier Training at Northeastern


    Future Soldier Training at Northeastern High School

 Elizabeth City Station along with Future Soldiers held Future Soldier Training at Northeastern H.S. on April 4, 2013. This training is to  prepare Future Soldiers for their entry into basic training, to instill excitement and discipline.

Recruiters also conversed with students at the Pasquotank County High School to inform high school Juniors and Seniors of the benefits the Army offers them upon graduation of high school.





Sgt. 1st Class Scott Dickinson


                           SFC Scott Dickinson

 Sgt. 1st Class Scott Dickinson was honored  on April 9, 2013, for his diligent work in mentoring a local Boy Scout Troop. Sgt First Class Dickinson gives selflessly with his mentorship as Army Ambassador within his community. Sgt First Class Dickinson works in the Kannapolis Army Recruiting Center. 

Science Fair and Opening of Robotics Display


                    Science Fair and Opening of Robotics Display

Staff Sgt. Pyle attended a Science Fair and Opening of Robotics Display on April 13, 2013. The fair was held at the Greensboro Science Center in Greensboro, N.C., to discuss Army Technology and its influence on society in the civilian sector. Staff Sgt. Pyle instituted the Spider Web asset to challenge the attending students on their problem solving skills while using the web
(internet scenario) at the end of each of his speaking sessions. The Science
Center opened their robotics exhibit center. 




JROTC competition


        JROTC Competition

The JROTC Competition was held on April 13, 2013 at Wake Forest Rolesville High school. The participating schools were Wake Forest Rolesville, Knightdale, South Granville, Person County, West Johnston and Garner High schools. The objective for this event was to identify the best JROTC program in all aspects of their curriculum. Events ranged from PT test, obstacle course, uniform inspection, color guard, Drills and Ceremonies. Our NCOs were used as graders and also spoke to interested individuals about the Army and the Army opportunities. Sgt. First Class Thorpe, Sgt. Amartey, and Sgt. Kaiser attended the Competition.



Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Winston Salem Company MEGA FS event

        Winston Salem Company MEGA Future Soldier Event

 Mega Future Soldier Event was held at Armstrong Park in High Point, NC on March 30, 2013.

 The Winston Salem MEGA FS event was an excellent opportunity for the Future Soldiers of Winston Salem Company to get together prior to the Easter Holiday. The Future Soldiers from High Point, Greensboro, and Winston Salem all converged on Armstrong Park in High Point to conduct team-building operations. Today’s event consisted of some old fashion kick-ball. Upon the completion of the sporting events, we facilitated a time for the Future Soldiers to introduce themselves and state where they are going to basic training. This will allow them to make new acquaintances for this new transition to the Army.

Fayetteville Main RS, 3J1G--news


Fayetteville Main Recruiting Station  News

National High School Cheerleading Championship

National High School Cheerleading Championship was held on March 22-23, 2013 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Tenekeyia McGaskey is the the daughter of Sgt. First Class McGaskey of the Fayetteville Main Center, Fayetteville, N.C.
The championship spirit among the NCOs of the Fayetteville center does not stop with the Soldier, but extends to their family members as well.
 



Charlotte Checkers visit Jesse C. Carson High School

 Charlotte Checkers visit Jesse C. Carson High School  The Charlotte Checkers "Chubby"  Mascot visits the Kannapolis Center and Jesse C. Carson High School. This visit was held on March 26, 2013 at Jesse C. Carson High School. Sgt. 1st Class Anderson also visited the school along with "chubby." The event was to gain leads and share Army opportunities with students.
 

Chubby, the Checkers mascot, poses for a pic with a Jesse C. Carson student who entered the scholarship contest.


SFC Anderson talks with students during the Charlotte Checkers HS visit.