3-157th Field Artillery Battalion

Whether you’re experiencing big challenges or sensing something’s off, help is available. Know how to spot the signs of crisis: VeteransCrisisLine.net/SignsofCrisis.

Happy Thanksgiving

Please see attached flyer with resources available to assist your Soldiers impacted by the government shutdown. Also, AER is prepared to provide financial assistance during appropriations lapse as well. They will consider all T32 AGR and fed-tech that are caught up in the government shutdown. Reach out to your local AER chapter. If your Soldiers have issues at the local chapter level, SCSM/ CSEL can reach out to SMA(R) Tony Grinston’s office. They will help Soldiers in need regardless of rank.

Army Emergency Relief (AER) will provide rapid zero-interest loans to Soldiers if the Oct. 15 military payday is impacted. The financial assistance is intended to bridge the gap until standard government operations resume.

AER will provide an interest-free loan equal to the amount of one net paycheck (last direct deposit) up to a maximum amount of $6,000. Repayment in full will be completed within 30 days and will begin on October 30, 2025, after Soldiers receive back pay following the government shutdown.

Financial assistance will be offered to Soldiers and their families. Assistance will range depending on Soldiers’ needs and repayment of these loans will be made through payroll allotments. AER loans are always zero interest and do not affect credit scores.

Before applying, please check with your financial institution to explore any available relief options. While AER is committed to helping, our resources are limited and rely heavily on donations, many of which are paused during a shutdown.

Soldiers who believe they will be in financial distress if they do not receive pay on Oct. 15 or later are advised to create an account and apply online at https://aerprod.powerappsportals.us/.

Retired Soldier pay and survivor entitlements are not affected as those funds come from annuities rather than military appropriations.

AER is the U.S. Army’s official nonprofit. It receives no federal funding and finances programs through charitable donations.

For more information, go to www.ArmyEmergencyRelief.org

UNCLASSIFIED

Home  · Custom Portal Army Emergency Relief is aware that financial hardships don't always follow a predictable course. If you're facing a valid financial hardship, we encourage you to submit an online request with details about your situation. An AER Officer will personally review your request and reach out to discuss h...

Colorado Army National Guard Retirement Services and United State Army Reserves 88th Readiness Division will be holding a retirement training event on November 15th, 2025, at the Sparks Auditorium - Joint Forces Headquarters Colorado Army National Guard. National Guard and Reserve Soldiers within two years of eligibility for retirement pay, Gray Area Retirees, Retirees receiving retirement pay and spouses are invited to attend the event. Please RSVP as soon as possible as seats are limited.

Registration Link: https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/t44dYujRHx

The "Mt Carmel Bataan Death March" refers to the Bataan Death March Colorado, an annual endurance event organized by the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center in Colorado to honor the prisoners of war who endured the infamous 1942 Bataan Death March in the Philippines. While the event itself is held in Colorado, it commemorates the historical event where American and Filipino soldiers were forced to march over 65 miles by the Japanese army after surrendering in the Philippines during World War II.

What it is:

A Memorial Event: The Bataan Death March Colorado is a community and fundraising event.
A Test of Endurance: It serves as a challenging endurance event for participants to test their physical and mental limits.
A Way to Honor the Past: The event is held to honor the sacrifices of the soldiers who participated in the 1942 Bataan Death March.
Key Facts about the Historical Bataan Death March:

Date: April 9, 1942.
Location: The Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines.
Perpetrators: The Japanese Army.
The March: Captured American and Filipino soldiers were forced to march approximately 65 miles under scorching heat and treacherous terrain, often without food or water.
Casualties: About 1,000 Americans and nearly 9,000 Filipino soldiers died during the march.

LTC Matt Mercado thank you for your leadership and guidance. Your time as our Commander was invaluable, the Soldiers, NCOs and Officers truly appreciate the confidence you've shown in us to take on new challenges. Your mentorship has made a significant difference in our professional growth; we were very grateful to have worked with such an inspiring leader. Congratulations on such an impactful Command. LTC Graves, welcome back to the Lightning Regiment, we expect great things from you.
Soldiers, NCOs, and Officers of 3rd BN Field Artillery Regiment conducted a Change of Command ceremony which is a military tradition symbolizing the formal transfer of authority and the legacy of a unit from an outgoing commander to an incoming commander.

On Time
On Target
Every Time
169th Field Artillery Brigade

On behalf of Colonel William DiProfio, Commander of the 169th Field Artillery Brigade, Colorado Army National Guard, consider this a formal invitation to join us for the Annual Saint Barbara Ball!

We’ll be celebrating the Patron Saint of Artillery with an evening of camaraderie, tradition, and good cheer on Saturday, November 8th, 2025, at the elegant Interlocking Omni Hotel in Broomfield.

Expect an evening worthy of the "King of Battle" filled with the time-honored traditions our artillery brethren have cherished for generations. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow Soldiers, families, and friends, and to honor the dedication and professionalism of the 169th.

For your convenience, you'll find the links to secure your Ball ticket and reserve accommodations below. And, for those who appreciate a good QR code, the official invitation is also included.

Ball Ticket Link: https://saintbarbaraball.rsvpify.com/?securityToken=5CI3dbhoBLGA0oXYmxUXbiEKsmDYFlqU

Hotel Reservation Link: https://bookings.omnihotels.com/event/denver-interlocken/st-barbara-s-ball-room-block
We sincerely hope you’ll join us for this special occasion. It promises to be an evening you won’t soon forget!

Saint Barbara Ball - RSVPify November 8, 2025 @ 5:00 PM - Omni Interlocken Hotel - 500 Interlocken Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80021, USA

Recognizing September as Su***de Prevention Month – Strengthening Our Readiness

Dear Colorado National Guard Members, Families, and Community,

As we observe Su***de Prevention Month this September, I want to underscore the critical importance of mental health and resilience in sustaining our strength—both as a force and as a community. In alignment with the Secretary of Defense’s priorities, caring for the well-being of our service members is essential to our mission readiness, operational capability, and the enduring commitment we share as members of the Colorado National Guard.

Su***de is a profound and deeply personal challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities across our state and nation. Each life lost impacts our entire Guard family and reminds us of the urgent need to build a culture of compassion, openness, and support. When we invest in the mental and emotional wellness of our members, we strengthen our ability to meet any mission—at home or abroad.

This month, I encourage each of you to reach out to fellow Guard members, friends, or loved ones. A simple conversation or willingness to listen could make all the difference. We must continue to break the stigma surrounding mental health and reinforce that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

As part of our collective efforts this month, I invite you to participate in two important events:

• Su***de Intervention Officers Symposium – September 11–12

This event will gather Guard leaders, intervention officers, and mental health professionals to share resources and strengthen our approach to su***de prevention. You can contact our State Risk reduction Coordinator Mrs Erin Summers at 720-250-1522

• Strength in Strides: Su***de Awareness & Prevention 5K Fun Run/Walk at Buckley Space Force Base – September 7th @0800 (flyer attached)

This community event is an opportunity to come together in support of wellness, connection, and shared awareness.

If you or someone you know needs support, please know that there are many resources that can help.

• National Su***de Prevention Lifeline – Call or text 988 (available 24/7)

• Military OneSource – 1-800-342-9647 (confidential support)

• Colorado National Guard Joint Resilience Directorate (J9) – 1-866-333-8844

As service members and leaders, we have a responsibility to foster resilience, encourage help-seeking, and ensure no one faces life’s struggles alone. By prioritizing mental health, we strengthen our force, deepen our unity, and uphold our values—not just in September, but every day.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, strength, and service to our state and nation. Together, we can make a difference—and save lives.

Hold the High Ground!

MG Laura Clellan
The Adjutant General

CMSgt Lisa Perry
Command Senior Enlisted Leader

To all whom these presents shall come, greetings. Let it be known that LTC Ashkan Angha and MAJ Joshua Gregory have faithfully served the Regiment, and being found honorable, cunning, and bold, have been entered into the distinguished and eternal rolls of 3-157th FAR. As such, these Soldier's are hereby deemed Lightning for Life and entitled to all rights and privileges herein.
Once Lightning, Always Lightning!

Signed
Matthew D. Mercado, LTC
Battalion Commander

Miguel A. Corrujedo, CSM
Battalion Command Sergeant Major

169th Field Artillery Brigade
On Time
On Target
Every Time

Soldiers of Bravo Battery (BIGHORN) participated in a Change of Command ceremony from outgoing Commander CPT Mark Rowan to incoming Commander CPT Nathan Reinoehl.
CPT Rowan, your leadership guided, and inspired Soldiers to make sound decisions, achieve shared goals and understanding, and fostered a a positive and productive environment. Destined to climb!
CPT Reinoehl, welcome to the Lightning Regiment.

On Time
On Target
Every Time
169th Field Artillery Brigade