Page 7 - Ft. Irwin High Desert Warrior, January 2022

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916th Support Brigade Celebrates 24th Birthday and Reflects on its Important Mission
High Desert Warrior 7 January 2022
A Look Back on 2021
Fort Irwin Community Playgrounds Receive Multimillion Dollar Upgrades
The Fort Irwin Garrison Command Team alongside the Department of Public Works and Aloha Construction Services hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony opening multiple community playgrounds across the installation, on Sept. 20.
Desert DUSTOFF MEDEVAC Crew rescue downed Naval Aviator
A MEDEVAC crew from C Company, 2916th Aviation Battalion “Desert DUSTOFF” rescued a Naval Aviator shortly after the pilot’s F/A-18F Super Hornet crashed in Death Valley National Park, California on Oct. 4. The flight crew for the rescue operation consisted of a pilot, co- pilot, crew chief, flight paramedic, as well as a Fort Irwin Firefighter Paramedic.
Upon reaching the crash site at Death Valley National Park, the paramedics rendered care to the Aviator for possible fractures and lacerations. The wounded patient was in stable condition on the scene and was then transported for treatment at Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center in Las Vegas.
The 916th Support Brigade kicked off a multiday birthday celebration with a Esprit De Corps Run and an organization day as the Brigade turned 24 on Sept. 16. Activated in 1997, the Brigade provides support to the National Training Center, sustainment for rotational units, and trains forces for worldwide contingency operations. The Brigade is also heavily involved in every aspect of training rotations.
During the past few years, the Brigade has seen some notable achievements while undertaking their daily routine of sustaining the force. “There are countless things Sergeant Major and I are proud of when we reflect on the past year,” Brunson said.
Fort Irwin Community Honors Gold Star Families
Fort Irwin’s Survivor Outreach Services held a run/walk on Sept. 18, to honor and remember Gold Star Families.
Often called “an honor no one wants”, the practice of replacing blue stars with gold stars on Service Flags after the death of a loved one began during World War I. It was not until 1936 did the United States begin observing Gold Star Mother’s Day on the last Sunday of September.
For Lori Picard, Fort Irwin’s Survivor Outreach Coordinator, this event is crucial for both Fort Irwin and Gold Star Families. “All of the families were pleased on how their loved ones were honored and remembered during the event,” said Picard. “Events like this signify that Gold Star Families are still part of the Army Family and are always welcome here on Fort Irwin. “
For more information go to home.army.mil/irwin
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