4th MISG (A) soldiers bond during Short Walk event

4th Psychological Operations Group (Airborne)
Courtesy Story

Date: 12.14.2011
Posted: 11.30.2012 11:06
News ID: 98549
4th MISB (A) Short Walk group photo

LILLINGTON, N.C. – Soldiers and civilians from the 4th Military Information Support Group (Airborne) took advantage of the unseasonable weather to take a walk at Raven Rock State Park.

The nine-mile hike dubbed the "Short Walk" was headed up by the 4th MISG (A) commander, Col. Reginald Bostic, and the command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Fernan Castelo, as a way for the unit to build morale and unit cohesion.

"During this hike we hope that you will get to know each other," said Bostick. "We are seeing many new faces these days and we want you to interact in a relaxed environment."

Soldiers and civilians formed into groups of four or more and then walked a circuitous route around Cape Fear River. Civilian attire was the clothing of choice as Bostick wanted to emphasize a relaxed setting.

Since many of the personnel in the 4th MISG (A) are recent additions to the unit, participants welcomed the opportunity to spend the day out in the wilderness away from the daily grind of the office.

"It was relaxing," said Maj. Yolanda Gore, 4th MISG (A) unit resource adjutant. "I had a great time finally getting to put a name to the faces of my fellow soldiers."

Sgt. Michael Cohen, 4th MISG (A) chaplain's assistant, said the walk helped break the proverbial walls that often exist between soldiers and their superiors.

"In the office there is always that invisible barrier between you and your leadership,” he said. “Participating in this walk helps break down those barriers and makes the leadership seem more approachable."

After the hike, participants were joined by Maj. Glenn Fuller, a former 4th MISG (A) operations officer and cancer survivor. Fuller shared his story of survival with the group and some of the challenges he faces everyday fighting the disease. This was followed by lunch at a restaurant in Lillington where participants could share stories of the trail.

Summing up the event, Castelo said, "I believe that more of these events should be in order. If the response is this positive, where can we go wrong?"