Photo By Spc. Ryan Dunn | Officer Candidate School Phase III candidates receive instruction from Command Sgt....... read more read more
Subscribe
When a scheduled aviation training event for Washington Army National Guard Officer Candidate School (OCS) Phase III candidates was canceled due to logistical challenges, one senior noncommissioned officer stepped in to ensure the mission continued.
Command Sgt. Maj. Jeff Dvorak, command sergeant major of the 122nd Theater Public Affairs Support Element, coordinated and executed a static-load training event aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, providing candidates with critical hands-on experience ahead of an upcoming live (hot) load exercise.
The training, originally planned as part of the OCS Phase III curriculum through 205th Regiment (Regional Training Institute), Washington National Guard, is designed to familiarize candidates with aircraft loading procedures, safety protocols and communication with aircrew — essential skills for future Army officers operating in aviation-supported missions.
Leveraging his role as a full-time technician at the facility, Dvorak secured access to the training site at Joint Base Lewis-McChord and ensured the event was conducted safely and effectively.
“This was an important opportunity for the candidates to build confidence and competence before executing a live load,” Dvorak said. “Training doesn’t stop because of setbacks, we adapt and make it happen.”
Candidates rotated through the aircraft, receiving instruction on proper approach, load sequencing and safety considerations while operating around a CH-47. The hands-on experience provided a critical bridge between classroom instruction and real-world application, reinforcing the importance of preparation and adaptability in leadership roles.
For his initiative and commitment to training excellence, Dvorak was recognized on-site by Lt. Col. Nicholas Zaharevich, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 205th Regiment (Regional Training Institute), who presented him with a commander's coin.
“We thought we had to shift the schedule because nobody was available to open shop on the weekend, Zaharevich stated, “but in fact Sergeant major was there and could make it happen”.
The recognition highlighted the impact of noncommissioned officer leadership in developing the next generation of Army officers.
OCS Phase III represents the final stage of officer candidate training, where candidates are evaluated on their leadership, decision-making and ability to operate in complex environments.
By stepping in to salvage the training event, Dvorak ensured candidates remained on track and mission-ready.
“Leadership is about taking care of soldiers and accomplishing the mission,” he said. “Today was about both.”
| Date Taken: | 03.21.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 03.23.2026 10:03 |
| Story ID: | 561070 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, WASHINGTON, US |
| Web Views: | 80 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
This work, Grounded No More: Command sergeant major keeps OCS training cleared for takeoff, by SPC Ryan Dunn, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
