Explore every episode of the podcast The Dirt Logistician

In episode 45 of the Dirt Logistician, GM25 (CW4 Dougan) interviews the Brigade Maintenance Technician of 3/1 Armor Division, CW4 Sanders, following the end of the rotation.

 

Key Topics Include:

 

• Incorporating lessons learned from previous rotations to upcoming rotation
• Improving maintenance processes and procedures at home station and building upon them during the NTC rotation
• Usage of maintenance surge teams at NTC
• Importance of ISSL inventories and replenishment prior to NTC rotations
• The impact of manufactured repair parts on Brigade maintenance

In episode 44 of the Dirt Logistician, WAG05 (MAJ Slaton) and WAG12(A) (CPT Shannon) discuss the challenges associated with conducting sustainment operations in an urban environment.

Key topics include:

- Changes to predicted commodity numbers

- Different resources that are easier or harder to work with

- General planning considerations

In episode 43 of the Dirt Logistician podcast, GM07 (LTC Octavia Davis) interviews the BC and XO of the RSS for 3rd Cavalry Division, LTC Cole and MAJ Mauldin following the end of their rotation.

 

Key Topics include:

- Transitioning from a consolidated to dispersed RSA

- What the unit gained by dispersing

- Challenges during their rotation

We're back! GM07, LTC Stacy Moore, provided some advice for the force prior to her departure from NTC.

In Episode 41 of the Dirt Logistician, MSG Michael Rogers (Goldminer 24A) talks with SGM Dagoberto Chapa from Fort Leavenworth about training opportunities and improvements to medical systems explored at the national Training Center.   Key Topics include: -Sergeant Major Skills Enhancement Program -Project Warrior -BATDOK (Battelfield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit) Program

In Episode 40 of the Dirt Logistician, CPT JP Shannon (Wagoneer 12) talks with Joe Odell, a contractor who supports counter-UAS training at the National Training Center, to discuss the evolving landscape of unmanned platforms in combat.   Key Topics include: -Evolving level of UAS involvement in combat theaters -UAS detection and denial -Recommended unit TTPs and countermeasures

In Episode 39 of the Dirt Logistician, MAJ Sarah Barron (Goldminer 05) interviews MAJ Griffin Hill and SFC Richard Rayman of 123rd BSB, 3/1 AD after rotation 23-06 about their SPO OIC/NCOIC relationship and how they run their shop.   Key Topics include: -Talent management in the face of minimal staffing -Specified and implied tasks -Communicating with the FSCs and supported units -Personality-based and process-based shops -Supporting HHC requirements

In Episode 38 of the Dirt Logistician, CPT Jonathan Shannon (Wagoneer 12) interviews the 423rd Transportation Company leaders about preparing Reserve units for CTC rotations.   Key Topics include: -Roles of full-time staff -Challenges -Individual training -Planning timelines

In Episode 36 of the Dirt Logistician, LTC(P) Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07) interviews LTC Manny Velez on lessons learned from Rotation 23-06.

 

Key Topics Include:

• Developing relationships within the Brigade and Battalion
• Establishing priorities of training and maintenance
• Training TOC operations and communication
• Maximizing usage of additional enablers

In Episode 37 of the Dirt Logistician, CPT Carlvin Leggett (Wagoneer 5A) interviews leaders from 87th DSSB, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3ID about their TTPs for base defense.

Key Topics include: -Training Glidepath -TACSOP development -On-site training -Intra-unit communication and coordination

In Episode 35 of the Dirt Logisitican, MAJ Jen Guerra (Wagoneer 02) and CPT Eric Roggow discuss planning considerations for medical coverage within the CSSB to DSSB

 

Key Topics include:

• Role I integration
• Doing more with less
• Developing unit understanding of medical capabilities

In Episode 34 of the Dirt Logistician, CPT Jonathan Shannon, Wagoneer 12, and the DSSB SPO Trainer, MAJ Kenneth Slaton, Wagoneer 05, discuss considerations and their perspective on the successful employment of LNOs at NTC and during operations.

 

Key Topics include:

• Pros and Cons
• LNO selection
• The role of the LNO
• Setting conditions for LNO success
• Observed successful and unsuccessful LNO TTPs

In Episode 33 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC(P) Stacy Moore, Goldminer 07, interviews LTC Jonathan Daniels, the BN CDR of the 87th DSSB, on the successes and learning opportunities from his BN’s experiences during Rotation 23-05.

 

Key topics include:

• Base Defense
• Synchronization between the BSB and DSSB
• BN Preparations and Leadership

In Episode 32 of The Dirt Logistician, Several of the senior NCOs from the Goldminer Team, MSG Samuel Acquah, MSG Brian Lomibao, SFC Elsa Theirs, and MSG Corey Sommerville, discuss their observations of NCO Engagement during their rotations at NTC.   Key topics include:

• The current status of NCO Engagement
• NCO Engagement in the Company, Platoon, and below
• NCO Engagement on Staff
• Suggestions for fostering NCO Engagement in your organizations

In Episode 31 of The Dirt Logistician, two of the longest-tenured OCs on the Team, MAJ Jennifer Guerra, Wagoneer 02, and MAJ James Rainey, Goldminer 03, discuss the roles of TOC personnel in base defense.   Key topics include:

• Staff roles and Responsibilities
• Force Protection Working group TTPs
• Incorporating medical considerations into base defense

In episode 30 of “The Dirt Logistician” podcast, The Goldminer and Wagoneer team MAJ Kenneth Slaton (Wagoneer 05 DSSB/CSSB SPO trainer) and MAJ James Rainey (Gold Miner 03 Operations trainer) had the pleasure of interviewing COL Cedric D. Gaskin. Commander of 916 Sustainment Brigade at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin CA.  

 

Key Topics:

Leader collaboration at echelon

The importance of being yourself as a professional

Working hard and not wasting time  

In Episode 29 of the Dirt Logistician, two Goldminer Team company trainers, CPT Jonathan Shannon and MSG Corey Sommerville, discuss the keys to success and some tips for preparing for a successful, safe, and efficient LOGPAC convoy.

 

Key Topics include:

• Staff, Company, and Convoy Leadership Roles and Responsibilities
• Planning and Coordination
• Managing convoy loading and marshalling
• PCCs and PCIs
• Refinement

In Episode 28 of The Dirt Logistician, MAJ James Rainey (Goldminer 03, BSB S3 Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-10 with LTC McFerrin “Mac” McDonald (47th BSB Battalion Commander).

Key topics include:

• Training progression/preparation for Rotation 22-10
• Development of junior staff personnel
• FTCP/CTCP composition
• Managing parts flow through displacement and personnel shortages
• Base defense
• Advice to units coming to NTC for future rotations

In Episode 27 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses how to succeed when rotational Unit come to NTC with MAJ Jennifer Guerra (Wagoneer 02, Senior DSSB/CSSB Trainer).

 

Key topics include:

-              Communication among staff

-              Establishing role and responsibilities

-              Nesting with your Higher Headquarter

-              Staff synchronization

In Episode 26 of The Dirt Logistician, CW4 Sorepa Thomas (Goldminer 29 (Ancient), SSA and Material Management Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-04 with CW2 Nelson Dawson (1ID Sustainment Brigade Supply Systems Tech) and WO1 Stephen Valentine (299 BSB SSA Accountable Officer).

 

Key topics include:

 

• Primary mission of the attached Supply and Services branch from 1ID Sustainment Brigade
• Role of the Supply and Services branch in deploying the 299BSB SSA to NTC
• Lessons learned that can help to prepare SSAs for NTC Rotations

In Episode 25 of The Dirt Logistician, CPT Joseph Tereniak (Tarantula 17 (Ancient), Forward Support Company Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-04 with CPT Jacquelyn Lockard (I FSC Commander).

 

Key topics include:

• Training focus areas prior to Rotation 22-04
• How to maximize opportunities during RSO&I
• TTPs for establishing communications capabilities within the FSC
• Challenges the FSC faced during Rotation 22-04
• Preparations for transitions between battle periods
• How FSC Commanders can maximize working out of the FTCP

In Episode 24 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-07 with LTC Octavia Davis (3D RSS Battalion Commander).

 

 

Key topics include:

 

• Training Progression for Rotation 22-07
• Methods of training at home station without taking the entire formation to the field
• Augmentation of logistics assets across the battlefield during Rotation 22-07
• Preparation and execution of the BSA Live Fire
• How prior OC/T experiences shape thoughts on training management and leadership

In Episode 23 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-04 with MAJ Shawn Scott (Brigade Executive Officer of 3ABCT, 1CAV).

 

 

Key topics include:

 

• The role of the Brigade XO within the Brigade’s Sustainment Enterprise
• The organization of the Brigade Main Command Post
• Training Progression for Rotation 22-04
• Maintenance Management at the Brigade XO level

In Episode 22 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses Rotation 22-04 with LTC Chris McLean (Commander of 6BN, 3SFAB).

 

Key topics include:

 

• The differences of Rotation 22-04 from a standard NTC Rotation
• The Role of 3SFAB as advisors to 2/1 ID during Rotation 22-04
• Advisory mechanisms used by 3SFAB during Rotation 22-04
• Balancing internal and external requirements
• Training progression for Rotation 22-04

In Episode 21 of The Dirt Logistician, CPT Prayer Watson (Goldminer 24, Medical Company Trainer) and SFC Ian Loud (Goldminer 24B Ancient, Forward Medical OC/T) discusses MEDEVAC and CASEVAC observations at The National Training Center with CSM Sedrick Brown (Cobra 40, Cavalry SQN CSM Trainer).

 

 

Key topics include:

 

Critical components of executing MEDEVAC and CASEVAC

               -Communication

               -Rehearsals

               -Shared Understanding

Battalion Staff responsibilities within the evacuation plan

In Episode 20 of The Dirt Logistician, CPT Prayer Watson (Goldminer 24, Medical Company Trainer) and SFC Ian Loud (Goldminer 24B, Forward Medical OC/T) discusses MEDEVAC and CASEVAC procedures with CSM Ryan Roush (Outlaw 40, BCT CSM Trainer), CSM Kevin McLellan (Scorpion 40, Maneuver BN CSM Trainer), MSG Christian Cuyno (Goldminer 24A Ancient, Senior Medical Company NCO Trainer), and SFC Steven Ricks (Scorpion 24A, Maneuver BN Medical Trainer).

 

 

Key topics include:

 

CASEVAC within Large Scale Ground Combat Operations

The role of Combat Lifesavers and Aid and Litter Teams within the formation

Triggers to move echelons of care

Identifying planning gaps

In Episode 19 of The Dirt Logistician, CSM Krista Keune (Goldminer 40 Ancient, Sustainment CSM Trainer) discusses NTC Rotation 22-03 with the First Sergeant from B CO, 296 BSB, 1SG Crystal Ross.

 

Key topics include:

• Focus areas for the 1SG during an NTC rotation
• NCO Involvement at echelon
• Balancing the B CO's maintenance mission with the base defense mission

In Episode 18 of The Dirt Logistician, CSM Krista Keune (Goldminer 40 Ancient, Sustainment CSM Trainer) discusses the role of the BSA within the Brigade and the management of base defense with the 296 BSB Operations Sergeant Major, SGM James Jenner.

 

Key Topics include:

• Assets the BSB brings to the Brigade
• Challenges faced with during BSA Displacement
• Management of BSA Defense
• Incorporation of NCOs into staff functions

In Episode 17 of The Dirt Logistician, CSM Krista Keune (Goldminer 40 Ancient, Sustainment CSM Trainer) discusses the training progression and key points of Rotation 22-03 for 296 BSB with the 296 BSB Command Sergeant Major, CSM Eric Richardson.

 

Key Topics include:

• 296 BSB's training plan for the NTC
• Execution of base defense
• Factors affecting base defense
• The NTC BSA Defense Live Fire Exercise

In episode 16 of The Dirt Logistician, LTC Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses the training progression of 296 BSB for Rotation 22-03 with the 296 BSB Battalion Commander, LTC Harry Mars.

 

Key Topics include:

• Overall 6 month training program to prepare 296 BSB for the NTC
• Crew gunnery for gun truck crews for BSB and FSC personnel
• Training for technical and tactical competencies
• Training for the BSA Live Fire Exercise at the NTC
• Building the training plan after a successful NTC Rotation

In episode 15 of The Dirt Logistician, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sorepa Thomas (Goldminer 29, SSA and Material Management Trainer) discusses SSA operations during Rotation 22-03 with the 296 BSB SSA Platoon Leader, 2LT Crystal Clarke, and SSA Accountable Officer, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Sheriff Shoetan.

 

Key Topics include:

• SSA Layout and daily operations
• Preparations within the SSA for an NTC rotation
• SSA personnel conducting live fire

On this episode, we're talking with the command group (BC, CSM, and XO) of the 541st CSSB out of Fort Riley about their experiences during NTC rotation 20-10, the NTC's first divisionally focused rotation. As the only sustainment organization on ground, we get to hear about their organization's lessons learned, ERSOI priorities, supporting as a DSSB, the support requirements of the division's HQ and HQ battalion, force protection, and integration with the SB and SACP, as well as downtrace compo 2 and 3 units.

GM02, MAJ Jeremy Glenz sits down with COL Brian Olson, the 1IDSB CDR and talks rotation 20-10, a division-focused rotation and gets his thoughts on the SACP, the relationship with the division G-4, lessons learned, and implications for the sustainment brigade on shifting from COIN to LSCO.

Join us for the relaunch of our popular Ask a Goldminer podcast. In this extended session, Goldminer 07, LTC Parker leads a discussion on the changes to the National Training Center, the new expeditionary reception, staging, onward movement, and integration process, ways to get your SSA prepared for operating in a tactical environment, maximizing your battle rhythm, and homestation training opportunities.

In episode 14 of The Dirt Logistician, Lieutenant Colonel Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses rotation 21-10 with Colonel Michael Simmering, Deputy Commanding Officer - Support for the 1st Armored Division and previously severed as Commander Operations Group for the National Training Center.   Key topics include:

• Hard and fast rules to get right within the sustainment warfighting function
• Sustainment architecture within the brigade combat team (BCT) and how it fits in the battlefield construct
• Resources that the division used to assist the BCT for the rotation (before, during and after)
• What separates professionals from amateurs

In episode 13 of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jeremy Glenz (Wagoneer 02, CSSB/DSSB XO Trainer) discusses rotation 21-10 with Lieutenant Colonel Kalin Reardon, Commander of the 142nd Division Sustainment Support Battalion, Division Sustainment Brigade, 1st Armored Division.   Key topics include:

• Operating under a structure of a division sustainment support battalion (DSSB)
• Recommended focus for homestation training
• Roles and responsibilities of company commanders/first sergeants and platoon leaders/platoon sergeants
• Employment of assets unique to a DSSB (maintenance surge team)

In episode 12 of The Dirt Logistician, Command Sergeant Major Krista Keune (Goldminer 40, BSB Senior NCO Trainer) discusses rotation 21-10 with Command Sergeant Major Joshua "Josh" Bitle, Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.   Key topics include:

• Role of the brigade-level command sergeant major in sustainment and how it differs from battalion-level
• Homestation training prior to coming to the National Training Center and recommendations for other brigades
• Tactical evacuation planning and changes during the rotation
• Noncommissioned officer (NCO) involvement at echelon in executing the sustainment plan
• Role of the senior NCO in regards to maintenance within their formation

In episode 11 of The Dirt Logistician, Lieutenant Colonel Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses rotation 21-10 with Colonel Sean Kelly, Commander of the 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade, 1st Armored Division.   Key topics include:

• Rear command post employment at the National Training Center
• Enabling the building of combat power for the rotational brigade combat team
• Division sustainment brigade home station training
• Considerations and advice for rear command post considering coming to the NTC

In episode ten of The Dirt Logistician, Captain Kyle Myers (Goldminer 37, Distribution Company Trainer) talks about the modular ammunition transfer point (MATP) section and how it differs from the ammunition transfer holding point (ATHP) section in brigade support battalions supporting brigade combat teams.   Key topics include:

• Breakdown of the ATHP section for reference
• Movement of ammunition personnel from the ATHP to the MATP design
• Employment considerations of the MATP

In episode nine of The Dirt Logistician, Lieutenant Colonel Stacy Moore (Goldminer 07, Senior Sustainment Trainer) discusses rotation 21-09 with Lieutenant Colonel Brent Irish, Commander of the 2nd Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.   Key topics include:

• Sustainment architecture used by the brigade
• How the sustainment architecture shifted over time for the brigade
• Focus for training plans to hone in on lessons learned
• Shift in the sustainment rehearsal format used by the brigade

In episode eight of The Dirt Logistician, Command Sergeant Major Krista Keune (Goldminer 40, BSB Senior NCO Trainer) discusses rotation 21-09 with Command Sergeant Major Johnny Blanshard, Command Sergeant Major of the 2nd Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.   Key topics include:

• Training focus prior to the National Training Center
• Field trains command post integration
• Noncommissioned officer involvement
• Brigade support area defense

In episode seven of The Dirt Logistician, Captain Joseph Tereniak (Tarantula 17, Light Infantry/Airborne Task Force Forward Support Company Trainer) discusses rotation 21-08.5 with Captain Vernon Long, Commander of the Forward Support Company, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oklahoma National Guard.   Key topics include:

• Developing innovative logistics solutions when challenged with personnel and capacity constraints
• Integrating and synchronizing logistics capabilities with the supported unit
• Lessons-learned and deliberate planning of the field trains command post composition
• Training focus areas for forward support companies in the National Guard

In episode six of The Dirt Logistician, Sergeant First Class Linda Franco (Goldminer 8B, Ammunition Transfer Point Trainer) and Staff Sergeant Byron, Fuentes (Goldminer 10B, Mortuary Affairs Trainer) discuss casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) with Master Sergeant Christian Cuyno (Goldminer 24A, Senior Medical NCO Trainer) and Sergeant First Class Steven Ricks (Goldminer 24C, Evacuation Platoon Trainer).

Key topics of discussion:

• Definitions and differences between medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and CASEVAC
• Less discussed methods of evacuation
• Command team responsibilities
• Vehicle and personnel requirements for CASEVAC
• Unit stand operating procedures and rehearsals/training

In episode five of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jerod Farkas (Goldminer 05, BSB SPO Trainer) discusses rotation 21-08 with Major Sean Maily, the Support Operations Officer for 106th Brigade Support Battalion, 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team, Mississippi National Guard. 

Key topics include:

• Deploying and assembling
• Brigade collective training 
• Personnel management
• Field trains establishment
• CL IX management without shop stock
• Logistics synchronization and distribution

In episode four of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jerod Farkas (Goldminer 05, BSB SPO Trainer) interviews LTC William "Joe" Parker before he departs Fort Irwin to capture his insights after serving three years at the National Training Center as the Commander of the Regimental Support Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and as the Senior Sustainment Trainer, Operations Group, National Training Center.  Key topics include:

• Being stationed at Fort Irwin
• Getting left of the rotation
• Brigade support battalion commander engagement during expeditionary - reception, staging, onward movement, and integration
• Brigade support battalion concurrent planning
• Field trains integration

In episode three of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jerod Farkas (Goldminer 05, BSB SPO Trainer) discusses the expeditionary - reception, staging, onward movement, and integration (E-RSOI) concept with Major Adam Bolliger, the Support Operations Officer for 916th Support Brigade.

Key topics include:

• Changes to the way units flow into the NTC
• Torch and ADVON responsibilities and life support
• Completing E-RSOI tasks from TAAs
• Force flow considerations to receive combat equipment with logistics assets layered in for initial life support
• Early CL V draw with accelerated LFAST and calibration timelines
• Differing options of how to approach combat power build

In episode two of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jerod Farkas (Goldminer 05, BSB SPT Trainer) discusses FTCP and CTCP doctrine and employment considerations with LTC William “Joe” Parker, Goldminer 07, the NTC Senior Sustainment Trainer, and LTC Gabriel “Gabe” Pryor the G-4 of the 1st Armor Division and former commander of 47th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat, 1st Armor Division.

Key topics include:

• Differences between maneuver and sustainment doctrine when referring to FTCP and CTCP solutions
• The debate about who should OIC the FTCP and CTCP
• Divide in support concepts: support areas brigade and above, and trains battalion and below
• The 1st Armor Division approached this problem set with a division brigade trains standard

In episode one of The Dirt Logistician, Major Jerod Farkas (Goldminer 05, BSB SPO Trainer) discusses rotation 21-06 with Major William "Will" Cunningham, the Support Operations Officer of the 64th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

Key topics include:

• Execution of the new MATP concept
• Effective FTCP incorporation into the SPO section
• Exercising a split BSA concept and reorganization of the A/BSB
• LOGCOP management and distribution
• Running estimates and logistical mission tracking
• Sustainment integration training at home station
• SSA training, employment, and displacement
• Leveraging aviation assets to support the sustainment fight

Today on Ask a Goldminer, MAJ Jorge Aponte, Goldminer 05 spends a few minutes with a Brigade Maintenance Tech about his experience regenerating combat power at the National Training Center and some lessons that he learned.

On this episode of Ask A Goldminer, Goldminer 02, MAJ Dan Cole, interviews a BSB XO as he concludes his rotation at the National Training Center. This XO offers some perspective and feedback on some of the things that challenged his BSB and talks about some of the successes that his team experienced.