More tragic news:
Friends and Family of Lighthorse,
Today we said good-bye to a Lighthorse hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation on March 16, 2013.
On behalf of the entire Lighthorse Family, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow Soldiers of our fallen.
Words can't describe what we are feeling at this time, but I will say that we were all honored to serve alongside of this hero. Our task force will once again come together to comfort one another and continue the mission to honor his life.
We ask that you pray for the other crewmember that has undergone surgery and is still being closely monitored. Our home detachment and family readiness group are absolutely committed to the care and support to the family of the fallen and the injured Soldier. We are incredibly fortunate to have a great team at home to support.
We will remain resolute in our mission here to support the ground forces to honor and show respect for our hero and all the fallen Soldiers.
LTC Michael Demirjian
March 17, 2013
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Chief Warrant Officer James E. Groves III, 37, of Kettering, Ohio, died March 16 in Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division Hunter Army Airfield, Ga. This incident is under investigation.
For more information please contact the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Public Affairs Office at 912-210-9375.
Posted 13 Mar 13:
Tragic news in from LTC von Eschenbach, please keep all these young Troopers, their families and fellow Troopers in your prayers. The chopper went down near Kandahar city according to early reports.
I've reopened this 3-17th Support page on our Spur site in their honor.
God bless our fallen Troopers - Bear
"Bear-wanted to let you know that the 5 fatalities from the recent UH-60 crash in Afghanistan were from TF Lighthorse. Bravo Company 4-3 AVN was the assault company that was attached to the Squadron Taskforce for their current deployment to RC-South. Keep them in your prayers and wanted to see if you can send a note out to the Spurs and others."
March 16, 2013
The Department of Defense announced today the death of five soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
They died March 11, in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The incident is under investigation. Killed were:
Staff Sgt. Steven P. Blass, 27, of Estherville, Iowa. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
Chief Warrant Officer Bryan J. Henderson, 27, of Franklin, La. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
Capt. Sara M. Knutson, 27, of Eldersburg, Md. She was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
Staff Sgt. Marc A. Scialdo, 31, of Naples, Fla. He was assigned to the 603rd Aviation Support Battalion, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
Spc. Zachary L. Shannon, 21, of Dunedin, Fla. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Ga.
For more information, media may contact the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Public Affairs Office at 912-210-9375.
13 May 12:
Videos posted: 3-17th Cav in Afghanistan
29 Oct 11:
Task Force Lighthorse Awarded Meritorious Unit Commendation
22 Jun 2011 - Change of Command on 15 Jun 11:
Col. Galli recently (15 June) turned over command of the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade to Col. Pepi. Galli is married to the daughter of a guy I
flew with in the 119th in 1965, Bill Staubach. He sent me this. If you look closely, you can see the red & white guidon of the Silver Spurs.
Chuck Oualline, Spur 3
3rd CAB changes command - WTOC - 15 Jun 11
1 Apr 2011 - Change of Command speech by COL Galli on 15 Feb 2011:
Preface: Col. Galli is married to the daughter of a guy I flew with in 1965 in the 119th Aviation, Bill Staubach, and Bill sent me this. Col. Galli, LTC von Eschenbach's superior, delivered this speech (in Office Word) when von Eschenbach passed command of the Silver Spurs to LTC Demirjian. Task Force Lighthorse was the larger force of which A Troop 3/17 Cavalry was a member during their recent deployment to Afghanistan.
Chuck Oualline, Spur 3
Transcript of COL Galli's Speech
COL Hughes, CSM and Mrs. Stidley, Distinguished guests, fellow commanders, family and friends, and most of all, Troopers of 3-17 CAV - Out Front!
Good morning and welcome to today's change of command ceremony.
I'd like to extend a special welcome to the families of LTC von Eschenbach and LTC Demirjian. It is tremendous to have all of you here with us today. Thank you for joining us.
To the Division band and Battalion Color Guard, you add a special touch to the ceremony and Army tradition. You make us all proud.
CSM Lemke - the Troopers standing in formation today look great! Your leadership is evident and very much appreciated. Please join me in a round of applause for these great Soldiers! (Applause)
Today, we bid farewell to LTC Tom von Eschenbach, his wife Melissa, and their 3 boys, Joshua, Jacob and Jackson. You have served selflessly and answered the Nation's call time and again. Thank you for all you have done for our Nation, this Brigade, and especially the Troopers of Lighthorse. Tom, I want to personally thank you for your leadership and dedication to this Task Force and the Brigade. (PAUSE…….)
In 1969, Armor Magazine published an article entitled: "What is a Cavalryman?" This, in part, is what it said:
[A] Cavalryman is confusion with profanity on his tongue … experience with three Purple Hearts on his chest … imagination with a slice of C4 in his mouth … and faith with body armor on his back. He isn't much for . . . RPGs, AK-47s . . . Kool-Aid, powdered eggs . . .walking, or waiting in line.
A cavalryman is a fabulous creature . . . You can frustrate his desires, but you can't frustrate his drive. You can top his jokes, but you can't top his combat record. He's your conscience, your shadow, your second set of eyes, your psychiatrist, . . . and your despair.
But when the chips are down and the bullets ricochet off the [aircraft] he's your pride and joy . . . a slashing, hard-charging bundle of nerve and sheer guts."
That is precisely what Tom and the Lighthorse team have been to the Marne Air Brigade.
Tom is a remarkable warrior, aviator, and leader. He is both well respected and well-liked. That combination is rare. Tom leads from the front. He's a Cavalryman.
Tom's unit is close-knit. The Troopers have a great affection for him and he for them. I felt that bond when I was with them on the battlefield. I can still feel it as I walk with them today . . . They are all Cavalrymen.
Throughout our deployment to Afghanistan, I spoke about seven immutable principles. I can assure you that Task Force Lighthorse lived and breathed all of those principles. But they honored three above all others.
First, their aircrews NEVER left troops in contact. Second, they ALWAYS took extraordinary measures to save the lives of American Soldiers. Third, they ruthlessly pursued the enemy and defeated them.
Lighthorse was operating in what can truly be called "the rooftop of the world." They flew in the highest mountains, the deepest valleys, in the most challenging weather, and against the toughest enemy imaginable. Direct fire, troops in contact and enemy presence failed to provide a deterrent to the brave aircrews of Lighthorse. Their professionalism and skill were on display every day.
Lighthorse supported Mountain Warrior, Bastogne, and Coalition Forces. They brought reconnaissance, firepower, and supplies to the fight . . . often at great risk to themselves. They conducted 55 deliberate air assaults. They flew the Kiowa Warrior at altitudes never reached before in combat. Everybody said it couldn't be done. . . then Lighthorse did it . . . they are Cavalrymen.
They were based at Jalalabad, but their influence on the battlefield was felt throughout the Konar Valley, the Pesh-Korengal-Wagal Valleys, and the Waynot Valley, in villages and towns named Chapadara, Tan Teal, Watarpour, and Narwan, all the way to the infamous Tora Bora Mountains to their south. They flew in support of missions such as Operations Barge Matal, Strong Eagle, Bulldog Bite and Mountain Descent.
Across Lighthorse's area of operation, over 900 troops were stationed in small, mountain-top or valley outposts that were inaccessible by vehicle. These outposts were well-known because of the constant fighting that occurred in and around them: Restrepo, Michigan, Mace, Hammerhead, Able Main. The Soldiers at those outposts were reliant on Lighthorse's Chinooks and Blackhawks for essential equipment and supplies. Again, nobody believed it could be done. Lighthorse did it . . . they are Cavalrymen.
When the decision was made to pull troops out of the Korengal, everyone said it couldn't be done without significant loss of lives and equipment. Lighthorse did it . . . under red illum and in the darkness of night. No shots were fired. No one was lost.
That's not all they did. Lighthorse's Kiowa Warriors and Apaches secured coalition forces. They completed more than 1,000 missions as urgent response to troops in contact. They provided life-saving close-combat attacks, often within danger close range, and destroyed enemy forces. On Lighthorse's watch, no friendly Combat Outposts or Forward Operating Bases were overrun by the enemy. That's an incredible record of reconnaissance and security.
I had the tremendous honor to fly with them. I can tell you first-hand that each and every one of the aircrews demonstrated their fearlessness in the face of the enemy. They embody what it means to be Cavalrymen.
But don't just take my word for it. Listen to what others said about them.
COL Randy George, Commander of TF Mountain Warrior: "You and your pilots are consistently selfless and courageous team players . . . My thanks to Lighthorse for the incredible things you do every day."
LTC Brian Pearl, 2-12 Infantry Commander - "Phenomenal teamwork across the board . . . literally dealt a blow to the [insurgents] . . . the Taliban have never been dealt a serious blow like that - EVER."
And finally, BG Warren Phipps, DCG, 101st Airborne Division, "Task Force Falcon makes the remarkable look routine." He was inspired to say those words after watching an air assault in which Lighthorse made LZs that didn't previously exist - high in the Hindu Kush.
I could go on, but in short, when everyone said something was impossible, Lighthorse said "get out of my way" . . . And they got it done. That's because they are Cavalrymen.
The Lighthorse team at home was equally exceptional. I'd like to recognize and thank the incredible families for their devotion to these Soldiers and their dedicated service to our Nation.
Melissa, I offer a personal and heartfelt thanks to you. It was a long and difficult deployment for us. Your support of Tom and to the families of this Squadron made it easier to endure. Thank you.
And now, it's my pleasure to welcome LTC Mike Demirjian to the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade and 3/17 CAV. LTC Demirjian joins us from his latest assignment at the 82nd Airborne Division.
Mike, I welcome you, your wife Courtney and daughters Hannah and Kendall to the 3rd CAB. We are fortunate to have all of you as part of our team. I look forward to serving with you.
Troopers of 3/17 CAV - From now on, if someone ever asks me "What is a Cavalryman?", I won't need words . . . I will simply point them in the direction of 3/17 CAV Squadron.
You are incredible.
"Out Front! Marne Air! Rock of the Marne!"
Thank you. [End]
2 Mar 2011 - Change of Command speech by LTC Thomas von Eschenbach on 15 Feb 2011:
Lt. Col. Thomas von Eschenbach, Commander, 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry
Command Sgt. Maj. Richard B. Lemke, Command Sergeant Major, 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry
MG and Mrs. Cucolo----- COL and Mrs. Hughes----COL and Mrs. Galli
CSM Ashmen----CSM and Mrs. Stidley
Fellow Commanders, Command Sergeants Major
Family and friends
Thank you for attending today's ceremony.
Troopers of TF Lighthorse you look great today. As we close the book on another chapter in the history of the 17th Cavalry Regiment, know that each and every one of you played a part in adding an impressive list of accomplishments to an already storied unit.
Before I begin my comments I would like to thank a few people for their efforts in not only getting me here but in also in sharing in the ride during the past two years.
To my entire family for their tireless and unwavering support; Mom, Dad, Melissa, Jacob, Josh, and Jack-you are the cornerstone of my life and make me who I am. You gracefully share the burden of today's military service and keep my chin up during the bad times and my feet grounded during the good times.
Melissa, I couldn't have made it here without you. You continue to amaze me with your ability to take on every challenge and still have the composure to look for the good in anything and still smile about it.
To my boys, I hope you guys can one day understand that although my job often comes at a price to you, freedom is not free and service to your fellow man, in any form, is a noble cause. Thanks in advance for your continued patience as we will soon again embark on yet another journey together.
To my Mom and Dad-thanks for always being there and allowing me to choose my own path in life; your support and admiration means more than words can say.
To COL Galli-thank you for allowing me an amazing amount of latitude to command my formation and a never ending trust in my abilities. We have come a long way since our days in PCC together.
To my fellow battalion commanders-I couldn't have asked for a better team of warriors and friends to command next to. Thanks for your humor, advice, and ear.
To my battle buddy and the best Command Sergeant Major I have ever served with. Fate put us together and I was fortunate to have you by my side. I never felt alone in commanding the unit as you were the action to my ideas and the energy behind my vision. Your passion is what made this good unit a great one. You embody the aggressive spirit of a Cavalryman and always take care of the Soldier first. What you have accomplished is truly amazing.
During today's change of command ceremony you watched a time honored tradition of the passing of colors. Although much changes in a unit over time, it is the colors and the legacy of those that have served under those colors that always remains. I often challenged Lighthorse to understand the responsibility of maintaining that legacy. I reminded them that no matter how large the obstacle or how difficult the mission; success was the only option. I made only one promise to our supported ground force commanders during our deployment to the N2KL. A promise that TF Lighthorse would bring every capability we had to bear against a persistent and highly dedicated enemy force. I knew that, much like many of our Cavalry brothers from the past, we were called to perform our duty during a crucial period of time, as the outcome of our efforts heavily influenced and shaped the future of Afghanistan that hung in the balance.
The Soldiers you see on the tarmac in front of you range in age from as old as 50 to as young as 19. They represent the true melting pot of America hailing from many parts of the United States and the world. They had no choice in where they were born, but they did choose to serve as Soldiers. They were brought together as very different people with unique skills and experiences. However, they were transformed under the stresses of combat--forged together as one with a common focus on accomplishing an important mission. I could talk for hours about the hours we flew, the cargo and Soldiers we air assaulted, the ammo we shot and the enemy we killed. I could read from a long list of individual achievements and demonstrations of bravery. But I often said that there are those that do and those that talk about it, and we are the doers. I could tell a hundred stories about our heroic actions in places like Mara Wara, Chapa Dara, Barge-e-Matal, the Pech, Korengal, Shuryak. I could proudly talk of the amazing feats of our Soldiers at Jbad, Abad, Blessing, OP Mace, Hill 1311, the Ghaki Pass, Sherzad, Ranger Rock, the KOP. Although those names mean little to most people, they mean everything to us. Those are where we shed blood, sweat, and tears in some of the most extreme terrain in the world. Those are the places that I often saw firsthand what I referred to as the "Lighthorse Spirit". A spirit that never turned away from danger and took on every task with an attitude that no mission was too difficult; no cost too great.
Service to our Nation can be challenging and involves significant costs in many forms, but one of the many returns on our investment is the fact that these Soldiers are outstanding worldly ambassadors of our American values, ideals, and standards. I believe those Soldiers that stand out in front of you today factor largely in the formula that makes the United States of America the greatest Nation on this Earth. I am proud to simply walk amongst them and be in the company of such fine citizens and Soldiers. After one our many missions Lighthorse 7 famously wrote that
"The amount of blood, sweat, tears, and energy put into today's extremely high risk mission would not fit into any earthly container. The heart of an American Soldier is the only thing big enough. I am honored to be part of the whole, for the whole will risk all for the part."
I too am honored to be part of the whole and was honored for those Soldiers to call me their Commander.
It was a great ride and I am confident the Lighthorse will continue do great things under the leadership of LTC Mike Demirjian. Mike, you and Courtney have a great team. Show them the way and they will surely take you to new heights and places you never thought possible.
Out Front!
Marne Air!
Rock of the Marne!
Lt. Col. Michael E. Demirjian
New Commander
3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry
15 Feb 2011 - Change of Command:
My buddy from the 119th Aviation Company, Bill Staubach, phoned me today from Alabama. One of his daughters is married to Col. Galli, the Brigade CO at Hunter.
Today the 3-17 had a change of command ceremony for LTC Thomas von Eschenbach. The new Squadron CO, as of 15 February, is LTC Demergen. I am told that Col. Galli gave a great speech praising "the Cav." Am trying to get a copy of it.
Chuck Oualline
20 Dec 2010 - Message from the webmaster:
I want to express my personal thanks to LTC Thomas von Eschenbach for his unprecedented communications to keep us informed during their 2009-2010 deployment to Afghanistan.
It is clear from the 25 pictures and updates below that their missions were conducted in extremely difficult & challenging terrain without a loss of one Trooper. This is indeed a credit to their leadership, the pilots, aircrews & maintenance personnel who kept the aircraft flying. Truly a team effort led by Lighthorse 6.
I know that all the Troopers who served with the 3/17th Cav in Vietnam are extremely proud of these young men & women serving our country today! Welcome Home and enjoy the holidays with your families & friends!
Respectfully,
Roger "Bear" Young
Spur Scout Crewchief, '69-'70
20 Dec 2010 - Welcome Home Celebration:
Colors Uncased
Presenting Formation
SCO & CSM
Uncasing Colors
Welcome Home Poster
19 Dec 2010:
Thought you might enjoy these, flying into the Kamdesh Valley.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
18 Dec 2010:
In from Lighthorse 6:
3rd Combat Aviation Brigade Soldiers return at Thanksgiving - U.S. Army
"...Words don't express how proud I feel,' said Col. Galli, as he tearfully began to speak about the 240 Soldiers from the 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment and 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, the second to last group of Task Force Falcon Soldiers to return from Afghanistan after a one-year deployment..."
AU grad leads troops in Afghanistan Modern-day cavalry - Montgomery Advertiser - 15 Dec 10
24 Nov 2010 - Return of the Silver Spurs::
A buddy of mine from my first tour has a daughter married to a commander based at Hunter Army Airfield. Today my buddy attended a welcome home ceremony/party there for the 3rd Squadron 17th Cavalry, including our A Troop. They are back home, with no losses. He said they wore Cav hats and spurs in the formation.
Chuck Oualline, Spur 3
27 Oct 2010 - The Hard Work From The Ground
I usually send some pics from the air. These are taken from the ground
by an Infantry unit we supported on a operation a couple of weeks ago.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
19 Oct 2010
A link to a article on what we have been up to lately. Has been a busy
month as we were heavily involved with the attempts to find and rescue
the kidnapped British aid worker Linda Norgrove. Will be handing the
mission over to a unit from Fort Drum, NY next month. Thanks for
everyone's support.
'Al Qaeda associate' killed during Kunar operation By Bill Roggio
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
29 Sep 2010
Following link for an article posted by the Long War Journal on a recent
operation we conducted.
ISAF, Afghan forces kill 30 Taliban in air assault in eastern Afghanistan
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
24 Sep 2010
Below are three links to a recent three-part series done for the Stars &
Stripes. It is a documentary of a battle that was fought here in the
Konar Valley in June that had support from TF Lighthorse. Although we
aren't mentioned by name and the story leaves out of details of our
involvement, I am sure you can fill in the blanks of our role in this
battle. Hope you enjoy.
A nervous night, then a brutal battle in unrelenting summer heat
'I don't know if discipline is something you can teach'
A tough lesson on who wants it more
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
20 Sep 2010
Link below will take you to the CJTF-101 site that has an article on two
Lighthorse aviators that were recently awarded the Broken Wing. All is
well here as we are in our final 60 days. Working hard to keep the
focus on the mission and not smelling the barn. Chris Downey and his
6-6 Shooters will start flowing in mid to late October. Could not have
asked for a better Commander to hand this mission off to.
TF Falcon Soldiers receive Broken Wing award
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
=================
As a sidenote, the approximate cut-off date for Care Packages to the 3-17th would be 10 Oct 10 - Roger "Bear" Young, webmaster.
9 Sep 2010
Attached is a picture of the MEDEVAC section that is here at JAF with TF
Lighthorse (of course that is CSM Lemke on the ground sneaking into the
picture in the lower left hand corner). The MEDEVAC Company from the
3rd Combat Aviation Brigade is spread all over Regional Command East in
Afghanistan in order to support such a critical mission that is almost
exclusively done by helicopter. At JAF the company placed a section of
3 x UH-60s with crews. Although, the section we had here was still
assigned to the General Support Aviation Battalion and only under my
operational control (OPCON), they wanted and we allowed them to wear the
Stetson to signify that they were part of the Lighthorse team. One of
the warrants, CW3 Jeff Roberts, pitched the proposal for them to wear
the grey Stetson of Lighthorse Harry and General Robert E. Lee since
they were part of Lighthorse and since they would be the only MEDEVAC
section in the Army to wear Stetsons. Well the plan was approved and it
took them no time to order their Stetsons and break them in Cav style.
They wear them everywhere and I am extremely proud to have them as part
of TF Lighthorse.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
7 Sep 2010
All,
Like a proud father I would like to share with you a recent picture of
Task Force Lighthorse in Afghanistan. Although the picture isn't the
entire team due to the demands of 24/7 combat operations, like good
Cavalrymen we did the best we could with what we had. What you do see
in this picture is a Multi-Functional Aviation Task Force made with
American Dog Face Marne Air Cavalrymen who not only do their Nations'
bidding every day; they do it with phenomenal attitude, expertise, and
pride. Combat deployments are challenging and have significant costs in
many forms, but one of the many returns on our investment is the fact
that American Soldiers are outstanding worldly ambassadors of our
values, ideals, and standards. I believe with a little bit of pride and
prejudice that our military servicemen, both past and present, factor
largely in the formula that makes the United States of America the
greatest Nation on this Earth. I am proud to simply walk amongst and be
in the company of such fine citizens and Soldiers and have them call me
their Commander.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
Task Force Light Horse, 3-17 Cav
24 Aug 2010
LTC von Eschenbach & CW2 Rankin
23 Aug 2010
The following two pictures are courtesy of CSM Lemke, 3-17th Air Cav:
21 Aug 2010
Article in the upcoming issue of Men's Journal about Kiowa Warrior
pilots. Pretty good read on what we do here. The units in this article
is stationed south near Kandahar and are commanded by a good friend of
mine that I went to flight school with, LTC Hank Taylor. They are out
of Fort Campbell.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
PDF: America's New Cavalry by Michael Hastings
21 Jul 2010
US hunts wanted Taliban and al Qaeda commander in Kunar
30 Jun 2010
Agency to launch online voter registration assistant to ease registration process - U.S. Army - Posted 30 Jun 10
26 Apr 2010
We Will Never Leave A Fallen Comrade - The February 8th Lighthorse MEDEVAC Mission [2003 Microsoft Office document file] courtesy of LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6.
CSM flying 3-17th battle flag in the back of a Chinook
courtesy of LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6
19 Apr 2010
Tip of the Spear - MSNBC Special Report
14 Apr 2010
Thanks to Sharon H. I learned today that the 3-17th is on Facebook. See: Lighthorse Inn
Roger "Bear" Young, Spur Trooper & webmaster
10 Mar 2010
LTC Tom von Eschenbach & CW2 Vanduynhoven
5 Mar 2010
This February edition of the Falcon Flyer and three pictures just in from LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighhorse 6.
PDF: Falcon Flyer - Feb 2010 edition - Requires 
Afghan helicopters coming in for fuel at our FARP
Snap from the countryside as the SS flew a mission in the Konar Valley
Kunar Valley
26 Feb 2010
This Lighthorse newsletter just in from LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6.
PDF: Lighthorse FRG Newsletter #3 - Requires
10 Feb 2010
Wanted to pass on a story to you and the guys about Lighthorse in
Afghanistan.
Without getting into too much details in a story that would take an hour
to tell, on Monday February 8th we sent aircraft in terrible weather
into one of the highest threat areas in Afghanistan and picked up a
wounded Soldier and flew him to Bagram Airfield. My most memorable
moment of event was standing in the TOC looking at the faces of the
aircrews and leaders as they were looking at me for a decision to go.
We had already launched and turned around once but they wanted to try
again. This time we were going to try with only an Apache and one
MEDEVAC. I called the ground force to see how long a ground evac would
take and was told 2 hours to get it going. The roads were bad and the
Soldier was on a breathing apparatus and the bumping ride would make it
very difficult to keep him stable. One of the pilots says to me, "Sir,
we can do it. Let us try". The look of confidence on this face said it
all. I still had to call the Brigade Commander for permission but told
them. "OK, get to your aircraft, I'll tell COL Galli we are going." I
called Falcon 6, who was aware of the previous attempt, and instead of
asking told him that we were trying again. He approved and the rest is
history. The Soldier is awake and responsive in the CSH at Bagram.
Fate had it hands in many things that day. Below is the email my
Command Sergeant Major sent out to the leaders that night. Pretty
awesome stuff that will bring tears to your eyes.
"Today was one of the most humbling days of my 21 year adventure with
the Army. Today we saved a life. The family of the Soldier that was
snatched from the hands of death in the Pech Valley will never know.
Rightfully so, it is not within our character to boast. They will never
know that, we too, value their Son as if we were Family and so much
more. We are him. We will never leave a fallen comrade. Thanking the
enormous team involved in saving this Soldier would take a novel, so I
will attempt to do it with brevity.
From Colonel to Private.......
The amount of blood, sweat, tears, and energy put into today's extremely
high risk MEDEVAC mission would not fit into any earthly container. The
heart of an American Soldier is the only thing big enough. I am honored
to be part of the whole, for the whole will risk all for the part. We
have come a long way from beginning of the formation of Task Force
Lighthorse at Fort Bliss, TX.
From the Commanders who deliberately agreed to trust their Troopers to
the aircrews that wouldn't quit. From the NCO that busts his knuckles
daily making sure our horses are fixed, fueled, and armed to the
countless others that make sure the mission comes first, all the way
down to the private on the radio.
7 for 1. Seven went into harm's way for one.
Nerve, guts, bravery, courage, gallantry, valor. Parts of the whole."
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
FOB Fenty
9 Feb 2010
Thought you might enjoy
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
3-17th, Afghanistan, Feb 2010
"Blood Before Dishonor"
Lighthorse 6 pinning on combat patches
22 Jan 2010
Fellow Spurs,
I've posted a page on Pam's and my newsletter blog where you can view and post messages for the 3-17th Cav in the comment section. I had some problems with the password protection so have opened it up for all as of today so you can post your messages.
Please feel free to use it and show your support for the 3-17th Cav serving in Afghanistan today. You can view the page here.
Roger "Bear" Young
19 Jan 2010
As you know, this is Lighthorse's third deployment since
the beginning of the "War on Terror". I don't know if you have kept up
with the other Squadrons histories but three years ago, as the fight
against the Taliban was expanded, an Aviation Task Force was formed in
Jalalabad. It was no coincidence that a Cavalry Squadron was selected
to perform full spectrum aviation operations in support of coalition
forces in the toughest and most demanding region of Afghanistan. As the
third unit in a line of 17th Cavalry Regiment units, (2-17 CAV was
2008-08, 7-17 CAV was 2008-08, and 3-17 will be 2009-10), I promised the
ground force commander that we will bring every capability Army Aviation
has to bear against a persistent and highly dedicated enemy force. Much
like our Cavalry brothers in Vietnam, we are called again to perform our
duty during a crucial period of time, the outcomes of our efforts will
influence and shape not only the future of Afghanistan but possibly the
future of the world. I say with a little bit of pride and prejudice
that there is no better team than us to accomplish that task. Our
Troopers take great pride in carrying on the legacy and reputation of
those that served in the 17th Cavalry before us. It is what makes us so
great. Thank you for forging the path for the present day Troopers.
I am attaching a picture of CSM Lemke and I uncasing the colors on 8 Dec
in Afghanistan.
LTC Tom von Eschenbach
Commander, TF Lighthorse
Uncasing the Colors
Courtesy of LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6
3-17th Squadron Colors
Courtesy of LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6
Kiowa Warrior flying up the Konar Valley
Courtesy of LTC Tom von Eschenbach, Lighthorse 6
PDF: Falcon Flyer January 2010 Newsletter [Similar to our old "Hawk" newsletters]
PDF: Lighthorse FRG Newsletter #1
PDF: Lighthorse FRG Newsletter #2
18 Jan 2010
It is clear from the 3-17th site and their FRG page that the squadron is now in Afghanistan.
You can read a few updates from their FRG page [above].
Roger "Bear" Young, Spur trooper & webmaster
9 Nov 2009
I'm LTC Jim Ward - the former XO/S-3 for 3-17 Cav during our 2007-08 Iraq deployment. Thought you might be interested to know that 3-17 Cav was again awarded the Valorous Unit Award for OIF 07-09 (our rotation - May 07-Aug 08).
Best to Trapper and the others you are in contact with.
Hope all is well with you and all!
V/r,
James E. Ward
LTC, USA
VUA - 5 May 07 to 5 Aug 08
17th Cavalry Regiment, 3d Squadron, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop (to include subordinate units: Troop A, 3d Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; Troop B, 3d Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; Troop C, 3d Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; Troop D, 3d Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; Troop E, 3d Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment; Detachment, Company B, 277th Support Battalion)
19 Mar 2009
I'm glad to report that Chuck Oualline has heard directly from CPT Schildman, the A Troop Commander. Here's hoping this will lead to improved communications with the 3-17th.
Roger "Bear" Young - Spur webmaster
5 Nov 2008
With the move of the 3-17th from Ft. Drum, Chuck Oualline, LTC (Ret.) & Spur 3, will be our interim POC with the 3-17th. We thank Trapper and Sue for the years of being our POC with the 3-17th while they were stationed at Ft. Drum!
21 Oct 2008
Trapper,
On behalf of LTC Fowler and CSM Whitney, I would like to invite you and all the 17th Cavalry brothers and alumni to the casing of the
Squadron Colors, our last formal military ceremony at Fort Drum.
Ceremony will be simple and short, and will be held at 1330 on 31 October 2008 in the Squadron Hangar at Fort Drum. The reviewer will be
COL(P) Mangum, the Division-Rear Commander.
Please let me know if you will be able to make it, and how many people you think might be interested in coming up via your extensive
Veteran network.
Thanks,
James E. Ward
MAJ, CAV
S3, 3-17 Cavalry
Casing of the Colors Ceremony at Ft. Drum on 31 Oct 08.
Photos courtesy of Al "Trapper" Kemes
Attending left to right, Col. Kevin Mangum, David Russell Spur 6 70-71, Maj. David Essels 3/17th 70-71,
Al "Trapper" Kemes A Trp 3/17th Scouts 68-69, Sue Kemes, LTC Fowler, CSM Whitney
[Webmaster's note: The 3-17th is in the process of moving to be part of the 3rd Infantry Division in Georgia. Please see our 14 Jul 2008 update below. Roger "Bear" Young]
25 July 2008
According to information posted by the Ft. Drum PAO, HHT, 3-17th is scheduled to return on 31 Jul 08 (subject to change).
A warm "Welcome Home" to all the 3-17th Troopers and job well done !
21 July 2008
3-17th Main Body II was rescheduled to arrive home on 20 Jul 08 according to the Ft. Drum PAO. More news if/when posted by Ft. Drum.
14 July 2008
3-17th Main Body I Returns home:
Aviation brigade squadron to be welcomed home Sunday - Watertown Daily Times - 12 Jul 08
"...The soldiers from the 3-17 will be part of the switch that Col. Kevin W. Mangum announced at the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization annual meeting. The unit will consolidate and then move to Hunter Army Airfield at Fort Stewart, Ga. to become part of the 3rd Infantry Division. In return, an AH-64A Apache battalion will be reassigned to Wheeler-Sack and the 10th Mountain Division..."
9 July 2008
Greetings all,
[Some of] the Troops are back. Sue and I made it a point to go to Ft. Drum to see the advanced team home, they arrived at 03:00 3 July and even though most did not have much sleep it was a great feeling to see old friends back and out of harms way. We also plan to be there when the main force arrives.
Trapper
====================
3-17th Pilots Shot Down in Iraq Tell of Dramatic Escape
The Washington Post - 4 Jul 07
====================
Silver Spurs Ride Again!
17 Nov 2004
Gentlemen:
I'm CPT Craig McNamara and until recently I have been the commander of C Company 1-10 AVN. For the past 15 months we have been attached to Task Force Light Horse here in Northern Iraq. The Squadron has reorganized under the new 10th Mountain Division Task Organization. Our company’s attachment has now been made permanent and we have been redesignated as A Troop 3-17th Cavalry. So once again in its history A Troop is an Air Cavalry Troop. It is with great pride and through the understanding of the experiences over the last year that I and all the troopers have chosen to adopt the Silver Spur call sign. We are returning to Fort Drum in the near future and would very much like to maintain our roots and remember those who have fought and served under our guidon. I hope this finds you and all our Silver Spur brothers in good health. We will be in touch. Cavalry!
CPT Craig McNamara
Silver Spur 6
New Silver Spur patch courtesy of Trapper
19 Jul 2005
Dear sirs,
My name is SSG Patrick Allen, we had this picture taking just before our trip to Mosul, Iraq about an hour drive. Just wanted to let you see what the new Silver Spurs looked like a year ago. We are all crew chiefs and proud of what we are doing and always think of our comrads before us. We have decades between us but war will never change. Hope to see you brothers soon down the road. "Silver Spurs ride again"
P.S. "Welcome Home"
SSG Patrick Allen
A Troop 3-17th Cavalry "Silver Spurs"
(L to R)
Spc Baker, Sgt Guarino, Spc Testruth, SSG Allen, Spc Cole,
Sgt Wells, Spc Lambert, Spc Cortes, SFC Williams, Sgt Quimby
(Photo courtesy of SSG Allen)
