Command teams from across the 1st Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, gathered for a senior leader forum on community partnerships, medical services and Fort Riley programs Aug. 7 at Riley's Conference Center.
"Since July, we've had an 80 percent turnover rate of company command teams, operations and executive officers within the brigade," Col. Matthew R. Lewis, "Demon" brigade commander, said. "This is the first time we have done this, and your comments are going to help us develop future forum topics."
Empowering leaders was the day's goal, Lewis continued.
The forum's topics included the roles and capabilities of Army chaplains, family readiness groups volunteer opportunities, family advocacy, medical support and a discussion session with Col. Risa Ware, Irwin Army Community Hospital commander.
Also in attendance were Suzie Fritz, Kansas State University volleyball coach, and Ligia Paquette of the Lady Troopers. Both organizations are community partners with 1st CAB.
"The forum is very informative," said Angelica Garner, spouse of Capt. Bryant Garner, Troop E, 1st Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, company commander.
"The best part for us was showing the CAB's upcoming training and events for the remainder of this year and next year. As the family readiness group leader for my husband's troop, I can now pass on the information on to my families."
Angelica was pregnant and at home in St. Louis three years ago her husband came to Fort Riley, and she missed the Fort Riley newcomers' briefing.
"I think this is a great opportunity and is more in depth than what I received at the commander's and first sergeant's course," Garner said of the senior leader forum, adding the post offered more services than he first thought.
Included in the forum was a collaborative lunch with table group discussion topics and an afternoon tour of various facilities and locations across the post.
"You don't know what you don't know, which is why we are here to learn about all the services Fort Riley has to offer to your Soldiers and their families," Lewis said.
Brigade leaders are planning future forums with potential discussions focusing on tax help and activities in and around Fort Riley.
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