Soldiers supply timber to local tribal communities

Photo By Sgt. Kristin Lichius | U.S. Army Sgt. Alexander Duam and Sgt. Brandon Mann, truck drivers with the 1487th Transportation Company, Ohio Army National Guard, work with local members from the Cheyenne River Sioux Nation to sweep debris off of trailers used to haul timber to Eagle Butte, S.D., June 17, 2016. The timber haul provides an opportunity for Soldiers to work with local communities to provide timber to use throughout the year.  

CHEYENNE RIVER RESERVATION, SD, UNITED STATES

06.17.2016

Story by Spc. Kristin Lichius 

129th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

The timber haul has been an important part of the Golden Coyote training exercise for many years. The mission provides the opportunity for the South Dakota National Guard and other participating units to gain valuable training and build relations with tribal communities throughout the state.

“The wood from the timber haul is used for sun dances, powwows, to heat homes during the winter and for any other needs the community has,” said Doug Dupris, maintenance director of the Cheyenne River Housing Authority.

For Soldiers of the 1487th, the timber haul required them to drive on unfamiliar routes in a convoy to complete the mission. The unit primarily transports heavy equipment and hauling timber provided them an opportunity to gain experience in their jobs.

“We have a lot of new drivers,” said Sgt. Jonathan Crum, a convoy commander of the 1487th. “We’re teaching them how to drive in a convoy, and safely secure the straps and chains on the trucks to make sure the loads don’t shift along the way.”

The 152nd CSSB coordinated with local tribal communities to determine how many loads of wood would be delivered to each drop site. Then, the transportation companies hauled the timber to each community.

“The convoy commanders were in constant communication with each other, as well as with coordinators at the drop sites,” said 1st Lt. Carla Mentele, liaison officer from the 152nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion.

One hundred and fifty loads of timber was taken from the Black Hills and transported to Pierre, S.D. where it was distributed throughout tribal communities.

“Being a former Soldier myself it is nice to work with the National Guard,” said Dupris. “You can tell the Soldiers thoroughly enjoy what they’re doing. It’s a good training exercise for them and the timber is appreciated.”

• Date Taken: 06.17.2016
• Date Posted: 06.21.2016 16:36
• Story ID: 201972
• Location: CHEYENNE RIVER RESERVATION, SD, US