PARWAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan - With elements of the 2nd "Black Jack" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, spread across multiple regions within Afghanistan, the brigade commander, Col. Robert Whittle Jr., relies on multiple command assets to provide him with an overall view of the battlefield.
The 2nd "Spartans" Brigade Special Troops Battalion, Black Jack, located in Kandahar province and is one of those valuable assets maintaining brigade intelligence and support throughout the southern region of Afghanistan as a tactical assistance command, Lt. Col. Archie Herndon, 2nd BSTB commander, said.
Parts of three Black Jacks battalions currently operate in the south conducting security, intelligence, and logistical support, he added.
"We serve as a command and control for the brigade in the southern part of Afghanistan, tracking and facilitating Black Jack operations here so we can provide Col. Whittle with critical information," Herndon added.
Information that streams from a positive collaboration between Black Jack units in the southern region, especially 1st "Mustangs" Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, he said.
"We have great communication with all the Black Jack elements in our area," Herndon said. "The Mustangs are great enablers and helped cover all our required training upon arrival in country."
Logistical support is key too, as the TAC receives necessary supplies from other surrounding units, while coordinating with other Black Jack assets to provide them with any supplies they may need, added Staff Sgt. Toya West, 2BSTB logistical noncommissioned officer-in-charge.
"As we receive property and turn-ins we ensure any equipment that can be utilized by the brigade we get it to them or our outlining units," West said.
With no real constraints on logistical matters, as the drawdown continues and support for the brigade goes up, they are prepared to handle any situation West said.
Herndon agreed saying he has full confidence in his young team, "They have a lot of potential, can absorb knowledge and handle any added responsibilities the brigade deems necessary."
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