FORT POLK, La. – The 1st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade is the first impression of the Army for some Soldiers and their family members. For others, their service in 1st MEB will be the final chapter of their military career. As the Army’s pace continues to change the Soldiers in 1st MEB stand firm, dedicated to serving with honor. The 88th Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) was the first battalion to case its colors on June 12. The Soldiers and leaders in the 88th BSB remain committed to upholding the highest level of readiness with battle-focused physical readiness training.
Although the 88th BSB cased its colors, Soldiers are not yet finished. Non-commissioned Officers in the 88th BSB met at Muleskinner ridge next to the combative pit July 17, for a competitive battle focused physical readiness training session. Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), Alpha Company, Bravo Company and the 337th Signal Support Company competed for bragging rights within the battalion. The companies competed in seven areas: relay race, litter carry, water jug carry, tire flip, fire-mans carry, push- up event , sit up event and the final tie-breaker between senior and junior non-commissioned officers the tug-of-war.
“The training was motivational,” said Sgt. Joey Talimeliush, of Bravo Company, 88th BSB. “I love the teamwork and competitiveness, flipping the tire was the most challenging part of the training.”
“We (senior leaders) enjoy the unity and Teamwork amongst the NCO Corps and building on the morale to be filtered down throughout our formations on a daily basis,” said Master Sgt. Kevin L. Jenkins, Sergeant Major for 88th Brigade Support Battalion.
“I had fun,” said Sgt. Darren Stokes, of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 88th Brigade Support Battalion. “I’m going to carry over what I’ve learned to my next unit. I like that we get out and do something different.”
“Take what we are doing now to the next unit and what we are doing in 1st MEB will become infectious,” said Jenkins. “Our 1st MEB motto will spread across the Army with each of you as we train our Soldiers with honor.”
“We encourage teamwork by motivating our Soldiers to give one hundred percent,” said Sgt. 1st Class Devion Alexander, First Sergeant of Alpha Company. This was good training.
“Everyone gets something,” said Jenkins. That is what it’s about. One of the great things about being an NCO is we push each other to the limit.
As the battalion continues on the road to inactivation Soldiers remain focused on the future. The legacy of the 1st MEB will continue and Soldiers, past and present, will carry the 1st MEB’s strengths and leadership around the Army.