31st ADA names Soldier best sponsor

By Capt. Corey Robertson, 31st Air Defense Artillery PAONovember 20, 2014

Army Sponsor Program
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FORT SILL, Okla. (Nov. 20, 2014) -- For Soldiers and their families, reporting to a new unit and installation can be a daunting process. Knowing where to report, where the housing office is or what school their children will attend are some questions that need to be answered.

The Army sponsorship program assigns sponsors to new Soldiers arriving at their new unit. With this assistance, Soldiers and their families usually have a much easier transition and a resulting accompanying piece of mind about their new home.

The 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade held its monthly brigade newcomers' brief Nov. 7. The brief is a forum for the commander, command sergeant major and their staff to welcome and acquaint their new Soldiers with the brigade.

This month brigade leadership recognized their first brigade sponsor of the month.

"The intent is to formally recognize outstanding sponsors and the work they are doing to help Soldiers who are new to the unit and Fort Sill," said Capt. Jerame Johnson, brigade human resources officer.

The sponsors were selected based off a survey new Soldiers filled out. Through that feedback, the efforts of 30 sponsors were recognized. Also, that feedback helps the brigade tailor the newcomer brief and sponsorship program accordingly to meet the needs of new Soldiers and their families.

"We hope that the Soldiers continue to give us quality feedback so we can provide them the tools they need to transition easily," said Johnson. "It also recognizes Soldiers who are truly displaying selfless service and exceptional sponsorship traits."

Spc. Corey Calvert, 4th Battalion, 3rd ADA, was named sponsor of the month.

Readiness, in their Soldiers and families is at the forefront of the 31st ADA Brigade command team. To aid this focus, leaders are committed to supporting Soldiers and their families.