Carlisle Barracks Garrison Commander

05/21/2026

Ready to level up?

Enlisted Soldiers, your next move starts here.

With Credentialing Assistance, you can earn industry-recognized certifications.
✅ 1,900+ credentials available
✅ Training, exams, & materials covered
✅ Up to $2,00 per FY | 3 per 10 FY

From IT to fitness to project management, this is your chance to build skills that go beyond the uniform.

05/20/2026

Carlisle Barracks' Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, and Security will conduct their monthly test of the emergency mass notification system, the "Giant Voice," today, May 20, 2026, between 1 and 1:30 p.m.

| | | | |

05/13/2026

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month! 🏍️

Awareness is a great start, but CHANGING our behavior is what actually saves lives. Whether you are on two wheels or four, road safety comes down to the choices we make.

🛡️ RIDERS:
• All the gear, all the time.
• Ride within your limits—leave the ego at home.
• Stay visible and predictable.

🚗 DRIVERS:
• Motorcycles are smaller, but not invisible.
• Look twice. Then look again.

Safety isn’t just a slogan—it’s a commitment we make every time we get behind the wheel or the handlebars. Let’s look out for each other!

Stay tuned throughout the month as we release ✨NEW✨ products, tools, and resources to help keep our riders safe 365 days a year!



NHTSA | U.S. Army | Naval Safety Command | Air Force Safety Center

05/12/2026

Leading from the Front: Carlisle Barracks Sets Certification Standard for Combat Field Test

Merit-based leadership dictates that commanders lead by example. Demonstrating that principle in action, U.S. Army Garrison Carlisle Barracks Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Torsten Gojowsky and Command Sgt. Maj. Pete Hernandez executed the newly required Combat Field Test (CFT) today, May 12, 2026, at 6 a.m. on MT Pleasant Field. The Command Group completed the grueling seven-event circuit in under the allotted 30-minute threshold, exceeding the requirement and officially certifying the standard for the installation.

As one of the first Garrisons to conduct and certify the CFT, this leadership-driven event operationalizes the Army's strict fitness mandate. By exceeding the baseline and establishing a local certification standard, the Garrison ensures it is fully prepared to validate incoming Army War College combat-branched students, cementing a culture of uncompromising high standards and readiness.

Forging Lethality and Warfighting Capabilities

The ex*****on of today's test directly supports Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll's Army Directive and aligns seamlessly with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's intent for the Military Fitness Standards. The CFT is not merely an assessment; it is a grueling, continuous pass-or-fail crucible designed to measure the raw, physical exertion required in combat specialties.

By demanding peak physical performance without test modifications or timed rest periods between events, the Army reinforces its warrior ethos. It ensures that every combat-specialty Soldier possesses the lethality and warfighting capabilities required to fight and win, maintaining the U.S. Army's position as a formidable, unmatched deterrent on the global stage.

CFT Key Events and Requirements

The CFT is a continuous evaluation where cumulative time determines a Soldier's pass or fail status. Participants must complete the following events in sequence, in the Army Combat Uniform, without pausing between stations:

Sequence, Event, and Description & Standard:

1) Opening Run — One-mile run
2) Upper Body Strength — 30 dead-stop push-ups
3) Anaerobic Sprint —100-meter sprint
4) Heavy Lift — 16 sandbag lifts (40 lbs. each) onto a 65-inch platform
5) Weighted Carry — 50-meter carry of two 40-lb. water cans (80 lbs. total)
6) Tactical Movement — 50-meter movement drill (25m high crawl, followed by 25m of 3-5 second rushes)
7) Closing Run — Final one-mile run

A Call to the Next Generation of Warriors

The U.S. Army is a lethal, ready, and elite force. The standards set forth by the Secretary of War and the Secretary of the Army ensure that only the most capable are entrusted with defending our nation's freedoms. For those who possess the grit, determination, and physical toughness to embrace our warrior ethos, the Army is actively recruiting driven individuals ready to meet these high standards and join the ranks of the world's premier fighting force.

Do you have what it takes to pass the CFT? Contact your local recruiter today to earn your place. Visit https://www.goarmy.com/ to learn more.

Photos by Carlisle Barracks Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment Commander, Capt. Ian Stevenson.

| | | | | | | | |


Artificial intelligence assisted in the drafting of this article, while human editors maintained full responsibility for its final content, verification, and accuracy.

05/08/2026

Carlisle Barracks Community, please be aware the Carlisle Barracks Exchange Vista Optical Shop will be Closed May 8 though 11, 2026.

Attention Carlisle Barracks Main Exchange Customers: We are sorry to inform you that the Vista Optical Shop will be Closed 8-11 May 2026. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We hope to see you soon.

05/06/2026

Celebrating Excellence!

Carlisle Barracks' Garrison Commander took a moment today, May 6, 2026, in Upton Hall Foyer to recognize the incredible dedication of Carlisle Barracks MWR Team Members for their support of the Army War College's 2026 Jim Thorpe Sports Days.

From providing a welcoming environment for Senior Service College athletes and their families, to the "miraculous logistical coordination" and "seamless ex*****on" of a highly visible, multi-day competition, the MWR team truly delivered. Their high standards directly support the physical readiness and warrior ethos of our future strategic leaders, ensuring our forces remain competitive, resilient, and lethal.

Special Congratulations to our Civilian Service Achievement Recipients: Nicole Willshier, Don Watkins, and Jerry Cataldo.

And to all our Certificate of Appreciation Honorees: Chad Johnson, Michael Murad, Ann Miller, Shane Keller, Tanner Schrubb, Sonoko Cash, Nadya Sanchez, Kristina Kaufman, A.J. Wolfe, Michael Jeffries, Luke Stager (who missed the ceremony because he was busy taking care of an MWR patron's car!), and the rest of the MWR Team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

Thank you for your exceptional dedication, technical expertise, and flawless ex*****on of Jim Thorpe Sports Day. By taking exceptional care of our people and providing premier facilities, our dedicated civilian workforce actively supports our Army recruiting goals and helps maintain the United States Army as a formidable deterrent.

MWR's hard work reflects great credit upon the Directorate, U.S. Army Garrison Carlisle Barracks, and the United States Army!

| | | | | | | | Army Family and MWR Programs

04/30/2026

Sgt. Adalberto Orozco, a religious affairs noncommissioned officer, recommitted to his Army career on April 29, 2026, during a high-altitude reenlistment ceremony onboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter. The aircraft, provided by the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade, Pennsylvania National Guard out of Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., flew over Carlisle Barracks and the Susquehanna River as Orozco took his oath of enlistment administered by Carlisle Barracks Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment Commander, Capt. Ian Stevenson.

Before departing on the mission, the Chinook crew opened the aircraft to the Carlisle Barracks community. Residents and staff toured the heavy-lift helicopter and spoke with the crew, providing a firsthand look at the warfighting capabilities that support Army operations worldwide. Following the mission, the Carlisle Barracks Garrison Commander presented the crew members with Certificates of Appreciation for their exceptional support of the reenlistment mission and the total Army partnership.

This milestone follows Orozco’s recent graduation from Airborne School on April 17, where he joined the ranks of the Army's elite paratroopers. His decision to continue his service so soon after earning his wings is a clear demonstration of the warrior ethos and the high standards of readiness that define the Carlisle Barracks team.

By maintaining his place in the force, Orozco reinforces the lethality and warfighting capabilities that ensure the U.S. Army remains a formidable global deterrent. His leadership and drive serve as an example to his peers and a testament to the Army’s commitment to excellence.

Carlisle Barracks is proud to retain such a disciplined and capable warrior. Orozco’s dedication ensures we remain ready to meet any mission, anytime, anywhere.

Are you ready to join a team of lethal professionals and forge your own path? Discover the opportunities waiting for you at https://www.goarmy.com/

| | | | | |

04/20/2026

Sgt. Adalberto Orozco, a Religious Affairs Noncommissioned Officer at Carlisle Barracks, graduated from Airborne School on April 17, 2026, alongside 260 newly forged Paratroopers from an initial class of 450. Earning these wings is a testament to the Army's high standards and uncompromising readiness.

In a demonstration of commitment to putting people first, the Garrison Command Team traveled from Carlisle Barracks to Fort Benning, Ga., to stand with Orozco on graduation day. There, the Garrison Commander personally pinned on Orozco’s jump wings.

Orozco and his fellow graduates represent the lethal, warfighting capabilities that make the U.S. Army a formidable global deterrent. They carry the mantle of the Warrior Ethos. Their grit, resilience, and refusal to accept defeat reflect the same spirit that built the Airborne's legacy from Sicily to today’s Airborne formations. Their achievement is more than a qualification; it is a reaffirmation of mission first, a willingness to step into the door, and a solemn commitment to uphold the standards of those who jumped before them into combat.

Carlisle Barracks is extremely proud of Orozco's discipline, drive, and example. He now returns to the Garrison with the wings of a Paratrooper and the spirit of a warrior ready to serve.

For those with the drive to meet these rigorous standards and lead from the front, the Army offers unparalleled opportunities to forge your own legacy. https://www.goarmy.com/

| | | | | |

04/15/2026

Carlisle Barracks Community -- Be aware, demolition of Building 121 (formerly Bliss Hall) and Building 122 (formerly Root Hall) is underway.

For your safety, the sidewalks along Forbes Avenue and Ashburn Drive surrounding the demolition site are completely closed to pedestrian traffic.

Forbes Ave. and Ashburn Dr. are open to two-way vehicle traffic only via the established traffic pattern.

Increased Hazards: Heavy equipment is operating in these areas, creating significant risks for pedestrians and bicyclists. Workers have observed individuals attempting to navigate the construction zone despite closures, which significantly increases the chance of serious injury or loss of life.

Stay Safe: Do not walk in the street on Forbes Ave. near the construction zone. Equipment operation may limit visibility.

Alternate Routes: Use the sidewalks around MT. Pleasant Field or find alternative routes to avoid the construction area.

Carlisle Barracks MWR's MT. Pleasant Field Gym will remain open throughout this construction project. To access the gym, please utilize the sidewalks from MT. Pleasant Field. Parking is available for all gym patrons in the lot located across from the Field, adjacent to Building 46. Accessible parking spaces are available behind the theater for patrons with disabilities.

Your safety is our top priority. Please adhere to these guidelines, be extra cautious, slow down, and follow all signs and directions.

| | | | | | Army War College | | Army Family and MWR Programs