By Army Sgt. LeeAnn Lloyd
22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Soldiers had a sit-down chat, June 2, with the man responsible for the effectiveness of troops coming out of basic training.
Gen. William Wallace, commander of the Army's Training and Doctrine Command, spoke with Soldiers from the 122nd Aviation Support Battalion with Task Force Corsair, many of whom completed basic training not too long ago.
"What if I told you that every Soldier coming out of basic training would be Combat Life Saver qualified?" Wallace asked the troops. According to Wallace, that is exactly what will happen around the September timeframe of 2007. It will become policy that each Soldier be fully qualified as a combat life saver prior to joining their respective units.
Wallace asked the troops what it would take to keep them in the Army. Most replied bigger bonuses, and more time at home with loved ones. Sgt. Ryan Budil, team leader with the 122nd, brought the general up to speed on the latest bonus options for his military operational specialty.
"Wow, you all really keep up on this money issue, don't you?" Wallace asked jokingly.
Wallace wrapped up the luncheon by thanking the Soldiers for their service.
"You folks, and folks just like you, are the best Soldiers I've ever served with during my 38 years of service," Wallace noted. As a final gesture of thanks, the commander offered his coin to each Soldier in attendance.