Ceremony Honors Schofield Soldiers

MAJ. LESLIE WADDLE

Special to Central Oahu Islander

Approximately 20 soldiers from the 14th Construction Management Team (CMT) and 15th Explosive Hazards Team (EHT) at Schofield Barracks were recognized Feb. 4 during a redeployment ceremony.

The two groups served approximately nine months in Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

The 14th CMT partnered with Navy Seabees to train Afghan National Army’s National Engineer Brigade in basic carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. During the same deployment, the 15th EHT assisted in clearing improvised explosive devices and training Afghan Nation Army explosive ordnance specialists.

“Every day was hard for both teams,” said Lt. Col. Anela Arcari, the commander of the 130th Engineer Brigade (Provisional). “The 14th filled a critical gap and overcame every obstacle to establish a world-class training program that will have a lasting effect on the Afghan National Engineer Brigade as well as the country of Afghanistan.”

In addition to the 14th CMT and 15th EHT, approximately 45 soldiers from Headquarters Company, 130th Engineering Brigade, who also recently redeployed, were recognized.

Erika Gronenthal, the unit’s Family Readiness Group leader, and Sgt. First Class Richard Martinez, a military intelligence noncommissioned officer, also received surprise recognition during the event for their contributions to the unit and the Army.