54th gut check -- noncommissioned officers get creative in keeping Soldiers prepared

Photo By Terrance Bell | Spc. Lloyd Williams catches his breath after completing several obstacles with his teammates.  

UNITED STATES

05.19.2016

Story by Terrance Bell  

Fort Gregg-Adams

FORT LEE, Va. (May 19, 2016) -- Noncommissioned officers in the 54th Quartermaster Company, 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) are saddled with an age-old problem – how to keep troops busy when they are not deployed.

It is an especially difficult challenge for the Grave Diggers, one of only two deployable active duty units here. Their highly specialized mission – primarily preparing troops for burial – requires the right mix of training and resources that are sometimes not available here.

Creativity is a must without the usual complements. Recently, the unit used Sergeant’s Time to challenge Soldiers with the 54th Challenge. It consisted of a number of mostly physical events fashioned to bolster teamwork and cohesion, said Staff Sgt. Ryan Brymer, one of the NCOs in charge of the event.

“You’re only as good as your weakest link,” he said, “and you’ve got to help your weakest link improve.”

After completing the obstacles, many of the participants were winded and relieved. The winning team finished in 11:34 and exulted in victory. It was hard-earned but all performed well, said Staff Sgt. Michael Potts.

“They really pushed hard. They put themselves out there and really gave it their all.”

• Date Taken: 05.19.2016
• Date Posted: 05.19.2016 16:31
• Story ID: 198580
• Location: US