Home of the 2-12th Inf Regiment
Bn and Bde HQ's
May 8, 2024
We arrived in Colorado Springs on May 7th. Prior to the Military Ball on the evening of May 8th, Terry Corum and I  met CSM Willie Woods at BN HQ and spend some time with him chatting about current events and some of our experiences in Vietnam. LTC Travis Stellfox unfortuately was tied up at Division HQ in training but managed to see us later during his lunch break before having to return to Div HQ. I had asked prior to arriving if it was possible to spend some time with COL Keith Benedict the 2nd Bde commander. CSM Woods escorted us over to Bde HQ, across the hall from Bn HQ where we caught up with COL Benedict and had a pleasant 45 minutes learing about the challenges facing today's army and the upcoming changes being laid out to turn the military back into a two front tactical force. It was refreshing to hear all that Col Benedict had to say during our brief meeting. Afterward, he took the time to takes some pictures with us before he had to resume his duties.
COL Keith Benedict, Bde Cmdr
LTC Travis Stellfox -  Bn Cmdr
CSM Willie Woods, Terry Corum, Arnold Krause and LTC Travis Stellfox  in the regimental room, Bn HQ
Miltary Ball at the Antler Hotel, Colorado Springs
Brigade
CSM Joseph Cobb
CSM Willie Wood
I have been to numerous balls since my first invitation back in 2013. I was remiss not to have taken photos. The usual protocol at one of these events, was the mess call, followed by welcoming remarks, invocation, posting of the colors, National Anthem and the distribution of awards.This was followed by toasts to the United States, President, U.S. Army, Infantry, the 2-12 Battalion and to our significant others. Next recognition was given to the fallen in the "Fallen Comrade Toast."  Finally, the Grog Bowl ceremony was done, where we pay tribute to the many campaigns the unit has fought in with a toast and adding a bottle of liquor representing the area, added to the punch in the grog bowl. You can see that being done in the Military Ball 2014 tab. After this ceremony, dinner was served. After dinner the guest speaker was introduced. It was CSM Michael Eiermann, the former brigade CSM who was retiring from the service that week. I met him in 2023 and was impressed with his demeanor and commitment to his career. He gave a nice and informative speech to the young troops, talking about dedication and commitment to the our country and to the service. afterward, the evening was ended with dancing and socializing. I had the pleasure of sitting with Brigade CSM Joseph Cobb during dinner. -  Sarge
Former Brigade
CSM Michael Eiermann