LV will host drill sergeant training for Army Reserve

Dick Benoit

Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005 | 8:45 a.m.

Las Vegas will soon be a training center for Army Reserve drill sergeants, according to a recent release from the 104th (Institutional Training) Division, U.S Army Reserve in Vancouver, Wash.

Maj. Gen. T.K. Moffett, commanding general of the 104th, visited Las Vegas in November to make the announcement to local Army Reserve officials and community leaders.

Two drill sergeant companies of the 104th will be located in Las Vegas.

"To my knowledge there has never been a drill sergeant unit in Las Vegas," said the general. "This will give soldiers in the area who want to serve as drill sergeants the opportunity to do so."

The Las Vegas "Delta" and "Echo" drill sergeant companies will be two of six companies within the 104th's 1st Brigade, 1st Battalion, 415th Regiment. Regimental headquarters is in Phoenix.

The intent of the 104th Division, according to the release, is to "expand its footprint throughout its 14-state area and give more soldiers the opportunity to become drill sergeants. Many new positions will now be available including logistics, training, supply, senior leadership and drill sergeant candidates."

"The mission of the drill sergeant units is particularly critical now as we train soldiers to deploy to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom," Moffett said.

"Before there is a warfighter, there is a trainer. I am proud of our drill sergeants and the Army they train. Most soldiers will remember their first drill sergeant."

Individuals with prior military service who are interested in getting more information can contact Sgt. 1st Class Donald Housley at 104th Division Headquarters by calling (800) 517-8379, ext. 4230. Locally, information can be obtained by calling 1st Lt. Angie Oliveros at 236-9367.

In brief