By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – In a nondescript building at U.S. Central Command headquarters here, officers from 64 countries work together daily to ensure the coalition fighting terrorism in the Middle East remains strong and well organized. Despite inevitable debate about the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, this coalition coordination center demonstrates the strong international will in the struggle against terrorism, the center's deputy director said in an interview yesterday.
"I think the state of support for the war on terror is still good," Marine Col. David Greco said. "We are talking to countries every day. We talk to the 64 that are resident here, and many others that don't have a senior national representative here, we talk to them via the State Department and via our attache system, where we have defense attaches throughout the world, helping those coalition partners."
The countries represented here support the war on terror in various ways, Greco said. Some provide troops directly to the fight, some provide air assets, others provide access basing and overflight for coalition forces, and still others offer capital support. Japan, for example, has an oiler ship deployed to the CENTCOM region to refuel coalition ships, he said.
The United States and a few key allies formed the coalition coordination center right after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. From there, more countries joined the coalition and therefore sent representatives to CENTCOM, Greco said. "It's a pretty dynamic coalition, in that there's countries involved from the Pacific region, the Americas, the Middle East, and European countries," he said.
Many officers in the coalition coordination center are connected to the senior levels of their home governments and can ease communication among the coalition countries, Greco said. Also, the officers represent countries that have forces working together in specific regions of Iraq and Afghanistan, so deployment planning is made easier. This camaraderie and interaction strengthens the coalition and translates to effectiveness on the battlefield, he said.
Every country in the coalition recognizes that the solutions in Iraq and Afghanistan will not be military force, but political and economic effort, Greco said. The Middle East has what leaders call a "youth bulge," where the majority of the population is young people. Many of these young people are unemployed or underemployed, so economic development is especially important, he said.
CENTCOM also has a security cooperation division, which works to help coalition partners help themselves, whether through training military police or border guards, participation in military exercises, or help with funding and reform, Greco said. CENTCOM works closely with the State Department, the Defense Department and the Joint Staff to encourage increased engagement from international countries in the war on terror, he said.
"We have all recognized that the solutions in both Iraq and Afghanistan are not going to be solved with military power," Greco said. "It is a pretty recognized and pretty well understood concept that there are diplomatic, economic, military and informational concepts that need to be talked about in those countries, and all that needs to be brought to bear."
Provincial reconstruction teams are important in the rebuilding of Iraqi and Afghan society, Greco said, and CENTCOM is working to encourage coalition partners to contribute civilian experts to these teams.
"What we're doing is working on coming up with the requirements of what kinds of job skills we need," he said. "And we're going to our coalition partners and we're saying, 'We're not looking for military guys; we're not looking for people to kick in doors and search for bad guys. We're looking for people that can help rebuild the Iraqi and even the Afghan infrastructure.'"
There will always be debate within the government about the U.S. involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, Greco acknowledged, but countries in the coalition recognize political cycles and aren't discouraged by criticism within the United States. The rest of the world looks to the United States as an example of government and policy, but the internal debate isn't damaging to the international will in the Middle East, he said.
"While we debate, the rest of the world watches how the United States does business, and we all recognize that, but I don't think it's going to cause any problems in our coalition," he said.
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Nature of War Makes Airlift Essential, General Says
By Capt. Travis Tougaw, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – Airlift is essential to success in the war in Afghanistan, the commander of U.S. Transportation Command said here March 14. Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz visited Bagram to observe and speak about the airlift mission being performed throughout Afghanistan.
As the single manager for global air, land, and sea transportation for the Defense Department, Schwartz said he's familiar with the partnerships exhibited here among the U.S. services and coalition forces. "The team at Bagram is, in fact, a joint team," he said. "People appreciate what each other do and try to provide mutual support. Teamwork is evident, and it's very satisfying to see people committed to the mission."
Bases in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Europe and the United States make up the airlift team for Operation Enduring Freedom.
"My impression is that the team is effectively supporting the folks that need it -- the shooters," Schwartz said. "It is clear that there's a sense of urgency here. It is clear that people are engaged. They feel passionately about the mission. And as a guy who's seven or eight thousand miles away, to see it personally is very satisfying."
The nature of the war in Afghanistan requires successful airlift, Schwartz said.
"This kind of fight cannot be effectively prosecuted from main operating bases. It's a distributed fight, and that requires us to be able to sustain those forces while they're the deployed," he said. "It is absolutely clear that we're doing that with considerable effect."
In addition to delivering troops, food, water, ammunition, and other supplies to the field, the airlift assets here are also called upon to move injured personnel.
"Medevac is what I call the quiet mission, because it does not get that much attention unless the people who are being evacuated are very prominent like Bob Woodruff from ABC News last year," Schwartz said. "But the truth of the matter is, the treatment that Mr. Woodruff received is exactly the same as what our troops get."
The medical evacuation system underwrites the all-volunteer force, the general said.
"Our youngsters know that if they get banged up, we'll leave no stone unturned to return them as quickly as possible to the best medical care, and that is what we do. In my view, that's how you sustain an all-volunteer force."
Using the C-17 Globemaster III for aeromedical evacuation greatly enhances the care given to the patients, the general said, because that platform has power, lighting, oxygen and other tools available for patient treatment.
That kind of versatility will be a key feature in new airlift platforms the Air Force develops, Schwartz said. He used the KC-X, the next generation of tanker, as an example. The KC-X will "certainly be a tanker first, but will have passenger, cargo, and air-evac capability designed in from the beginning rather than as an afterthought," he said.
Military commanders of the 21st century shouldn't have to rely on aging aircraft designed and built for 20th century wars, Schwartz said.
"Future commanders will have modern platforms that operate with much higher reliability and that will be very versatile," he said. "I think people understand that aging airplanes are an issue. The battles that we're fighting and likely to fight for the next few years are distributed fights that need airlift more than ever."
(Air Force Capt. Travis Tougaw is assigned to 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs.)
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – Airlift is essential to success in the war in Afghanistan, the commander of U.S. Transportation Command said here March 14. Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz visited Bagram to observe and speak about the airlift mission being performed throughout Afghanistan.
As the single manager for global air, land, and sea transportation for the Defense Department, Schwartz said he's familiar with the partnerships exhibited here among the U.S. services and coalition forces. "The team at Bagram is, in fact, a joint team," he said. "People appreciate what each other do and try to provide mutual support. Teamwork is evident, and it's very satisfying to see people committed to the mission."
Bases in Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Europe and the United States make up the airlift team for Operation Enduring Freedom.
"My impression is that the team is effectively supporting the folks that need it -- the shooters," Schwartz said. "It is clear that there's a sense of urgency here. It is clear that people are engaged. They feel passionately about the mission. And as a guy who's seven or eight thousand miles away, to see it personally is very satisfying."
The nature of the war in Afghanistan requires successful airlift, Schwartz said.
"This kind of fight cannot be effectively prosecuted from main operating bases. It's a distributed fight, and that requires us to be able to sustain those forces while they're the deployed," he said. "It is absolutely clear that we're doing that with considerable effect."
In addition to delivering troops, food, water, ammunition, and other supplies to the field, the airlift assets here are also called upon to move injured personnel.
"Medevac is what I call the quiet mission, because it does not get that much attention unless the people who are being evacuated are very prominent like Bob Woodruff from ABC News last year," Schwartz said. "But the truth of the matter is, the treatment that Mr. Woodruff received is exactly the same as what our troops get."
The medical evacuation system underwrites the all-volunteer force, the general said.
"Our youngsters know that if they get banged up, we'll leave no stone unturned to return them as quickly as possible to the best medical care, and that is what we do. In my view, that's how you sustain an all-volunteer force."
Using the C-17 Globemaster III for aeromedical evacuation greatly enhances the care given to the patients, the general said, because that platform has power, lighting, oxygen and other tools available for patient treatment.
That kind of versatility will be a key feature in new airlift platforms the Air Force develops, Schwartz said. He used the KC-X, the next generation of tanker, as an example. The KC-X will "certainly be a tanker first, but will have passenger, cargo, and air-evac capability designed in from the beginning rather than as an afterthought," he said.
Military commanders of the 21st century shouldn't have to rely on aging aircraft designed and built for 20th century wars, Schwartz said.
"Future commanders will have modern platforms that operate with much higher reliability and that will be very versatile," he said. "I think people understand that aging airplanes are an issue. The battles that we're fighting and likely to fight for the next few years are distributed fights that need airlift more than ever."
(Air Force Capt. Travis Tougaw is assigned to 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs.)
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
Group Remains 'Always Faithful' to Injured Warriors
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – A four-year-old servicemember support group has proved to be "Always Faithful" as it continues to assist Marines, sailors and other military members who have been injured during their service in the global war against terrorism. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund's genesis occurred at Camp Pendleton, Calif., in April 2003, when registered nurse and Marine spouse Karen Guenther and other volunteers organized activities for wounded Marines and sailors as they returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Guenther's husband was deployed overseas at the time, she recalled.
"My husband was in Iraq, and I knew he could be on one of those stretchers at any point of time," Guenther said. "It became very personal, and I saw the needs."
The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit organization, has provided more than $8 million in assistance to injured servicemembers and their families since the group was incorporated in May 2004, said Guenther, who now lives in Colorado with her Marine husband.
Guenther's group is affiliated with America Supports You, a Defense Department-sponsored program highlighting the ways Americans are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
"We're thrilled to be a part of America Supports You. I think it is a wonderful campaign. It helps provide visibility and support and assists nonprofit organizations like ours to help those who serve our country," Guenther said.
The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund assists wounded Marines, sailors and other servicemembers who have been injured while supporting Marine units, Guenther explained. The group has about 95 volunteers, she said, who work at military and Veterans Affairs hospitals worldwide.
Most donations come from private individuals, Guenther said. Corporate donations, she said, also are accepted.
Donations are used for home renovations, to purchase special vans and wheelchairs, and for other needs of wounded servicemembers, Guenther said.
For example, the group just bought a $23,000 customized wheelchair for a Marine who'd been paralyzed from the waist down as the result of injuries suffered in Iraq, she said. The Marine, she noted, was honorably discharged and has dreams of becoming a chef.
That former Marine now works in one of the best restaurants in New Orleans and is studying at a culinary school there, Guenther said.
"It's all because of this chair; without the chair he wouldn't be able to do it," she said. "He has his future back."
The group provided $84,000 to help establish the Wounded Warrior Center at Camp Pendleton, a 26-bed facility that opened in August and provides accommodations for recovering wounded Marines and sailors.
Wendy Lethin, director of business operations at the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund's office at Camp Pendleton, has been with the group since its inception.
"I have the wonderful opportunity to work with our wounded heroes," Lethin said. "I also get to talk to great Americans who want to support our troops."
The Marine Corps' motto, "Semper Fidelis" -- often shortened to "Semper Fi" -- is Latin for "Always Faithful," Guenther said. The group, she noted, strives to live up to that motto as it assists wounded servicemembers and their families.
"We're 'Always Faithful' to our Marines and other servicemembers who come back injured," she declared. "We help from the moment they get to the hospital and we stay with the family through their recovery."
Donations can be forwarded by accessing the group's Web site at www.semperfifund.org, or they can be mailed to: Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, 825 College Blvd., Suite 102, Personal Mailbox 609, Oceanside, CA, 92057.
The group's Camp Pendleton office telephone number is 760-725-3680. It has another office at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., which can be reached at 703-640-0181.
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – A four-year-old servicemember support group has proved to be "Always Faithful" as it continues to assist Marines, sailors and other military members who have been injured during their service in the global war against terrorism. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund's genesis occurred at Camp Pendleton, Calif., in April 2003, when registered nurse and Marine spouse Karen Guenther and other volunteers organized activities for wounded Marines and sailors as they returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Guenther's husband was deployed overseas at the time, she recalled.
"My husband was in Iraq, and I knew he could be on one of those stretchers at any point of time," Guenther said. "It became very personal, and I saw the needs."
The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit organization, has provided more than $8 million in assistance to injured servicemembers and their families since the group was incorporated in May 2004, said Guenther, who now lives in Colorado with her Marine husband.
Guenther's group is affiliated with America Supports You, a Defense Department-sponsored program highlighting the ways Americans are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
"We're thrilled to be a part of America Supports You. I think it is a wonderful campaign. It helps provide visibility and support and assists nonprofit organizations like ours to help those who serve our country," Guenther said.
The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund assists wounded Marines, sailors and other servicemembers who have been injured while supporting Marine units, Guenther explained. The group has about 95 volunteers, she said, who work at military and Veterans Affairs hospitals worldwide.
Most donations come from private individuals, Guenther said. Corporate donations, she said, also are accepted.
Donations are used for home renovations, to purchase special vans and wheelchairs, and for other needs of wounded servicemembers, Guenther said.
For example, the group just bought a $23,000 customized wheelchair for a Marine who'd been paralyzed from the waist down as the result of injuries suffered in Iraq, she said. The Marine, she noted, was honorably discharged and has dreams of becoming a chef.
That former Marine now works in one of the best restaurants in New Orleans and is studying at a culinary school there, Guenther said.
"It's all because of this chair; without the chair he wouldn't be able to do it," she said. "He has his future back."
The group provided $84,000 to help establish the Wounded Warrior Center at Camp Pendleton, a 26-bed facility that opened in August and provides accommodations for recovering wounded Marines and sailors.
Wendy Lethin, director of business operations at the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund's office at Camp Pendleton, has been with the group since its inception.
"I have the wonderful opportunity to work with our wounded heroes," Lethin said. "I also get to talk to great Americans who want to support our troops."
The Marine Corps' motto, "Semper Fidelis" -- often shortened to "Semper Fi" -- is Latin for "Always Faithful," Guenther said. The group, she noted, strives to live up to that motto as it assists wounded servicemembers and their families.
"We're 'Always Faithful' to our Marines and other servicemembers who come back injured," she declared. "We help from the moment they get to the hospital and we stay with the family through their recovery."
Donations can be forwarded by accessing the group's Web site at www.semperfifund.org, or they can be mailed to: Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, 825 College Blvd., Suite 102, Personal Mailbox 609, Oceanside, CA, 92057.
The group's Camp Pendleton office telephone number is 760-725-3680. It has another office at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., which can be reached at 703-640-0181.
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
Bush Assures Wounded Warrior Commission He'll Act on Recommendations
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – President Bush met this morning with members of the Commission on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors to tell them he's behind their efforts and will act on the problems they identify. The president established the commission March 6 to conduct a comprehensive review of military medical care at both Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals and outpatient facilities. He asked its members to recommend ways to improve the transition to other military service or civilian life; ensure high-quality services for wounded troops and increase their access to benefits and services.
"I assured the members of this committee that I will support their work and will address the problems that they find," the president told reporters after the meeting. "We owe it to those who wear the uniform and their families to make sure our troops have the best, and that is what this commission is meant to do."
Bush thanked the commission members for the contributions they are making - today and into the future. "You're doing the country a great service, because the commission report will ensure that service goes beyond my time in office," he said. "In other words, it'll really set the stage for this presidency and other presidencies (and) set a standard that we expect government to follow."
Former Sen. Bob Dole and former Health and Human Services Secretary Donna E. Shalala, currently president of the University of Miami, are co-chairing the committee.
Other commission members are:
-- Marc Giammatteo, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and former Army captain whose leg was severely injured during a rocket-propelled grenade attack in Iraq in 2004. Giammatteo has undergone more than 30 surgeries at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and served as an unofficial patient advocate at the hospital from 2004 to 2006. He currently is a student at Harvard Business School.
-- Jose Ramos, a former Navy petty officer 3rd class who lost an arm in combat during his second deployment to Iraq. Ramos, who previously served a tour of duty in Afghanistan, was a hospital corpsman who treated soldiers wounded in Iraq. He is currently a student at George Mason University.
-- Tammy Edwards, whose husband, Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Edwards, was severely burned in Iraq when a 500-pound bomb exploded under his vehicle. Since his injury, she has provided support for families of wounded veterans in her community of Cibolo, Texas. She is a research assistant at The Geneva Foundation.
-- Kenneth Fisher, chairman and chief executive officer of Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that constructs homes for families of hospitalized military members and veterans. Fisher Houses serve 8,500 families a year at little or no cost.
-- C. Martin Harris, chief information officer and chairman of information technology at the Cleveland Clinic and a practicing physician since 1987. He has served on government and private-sector commissions that have addressed health care interoperability issues.
-- Edward Eckenhoff, president and CEO of the National Rehabilitation Hospital and a member of the District of Columbia Hospital Association Board of Directors who is an innovator in the field of rehabilitation medicine.
-- Gail Wilensky, an economist and senior fellow at Project Hope, an international health education foundation who also serves as co-chair of DoD's Task Force on Future Health Care.
Bush praised the qualifications and commitment of the commission members. "We've got compassionate people who all care about whether or not our government is fulfilling its responsibility to make sure our health care systems ... are meeting our obligations," he said.
As the commission conducts its review, DoD and the VA also are working to improve the way their agencies serve wounded warriors.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has formed an independent review group to assess outpatient treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Naval Medical Center. The group held its first meeting March 1 and will report on its initial findings early next month.
"This deadline is relatively short for a reason: to make sure we identify additional flaws in the system and get on with fixing them as fast as possible," Gates told reporters during a Pentagon roundtable last week.
Gates told reporters he also has ordered acting Army Secretary Pete Geren to report to him later this month about the service's action plan to fix the outpatient situation at Walter Reed.
In addition, said he tasked David S.C. Chu, defense undersecretary for personnel and readiness, and Dr. William Winkenwerder, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, to conduct a comprehensive review of all medical care programs, facilities and procedures departmentwide to ensure DoD is providing servicemembers the standard of care they deserve. "I have told them that resources will not be an issue," he said.
Meanwhile, Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson established a new interagency task force at Bush's direction to examine the processes for combat veterans seeking services and benefits from the VA and other federal agencies.
VA established a Web site that allows active-duty servicemembers, veterans, family members and others to provide input about their experiences to the task force.
"As the task force moves forward in studying how we can enhance services and cut red tape, we believe it's important to provide veterans, their family members and others with the opportunity to share their ideas and experiences," Nicholson said.
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – President Bush met this morning with members of the Commission on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors to tell them he's behind their efforts and will act on the problems they identify. The president established the commission March 6 to conduct a comprehensive review of military medical care at both Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals and outpatient facilities. He asked its members to recommend ways to improve the transition to other military service or civilian life; ensure high-quality services for wounded troops and increase their access to benefits and services.
"I assured the members of this committee that I will support their work and will address the problems that they find," the president told reporters after the meeting. "We owe it to those who wear the uniform and their families to make sure our troops have the best, and that is what this commission is meant to do."
Bush thanked the commission members for the contributions they are making - today and into the future. "You're doing the country a great service, because the commission report will ensure that service goes beyond my time in office," he said. "In other words, it'll really set the stage for this presidency and other presidencies (and) set a standard that we expect government to follow."
Former Sen. Bob Dole and former Health and Human Services Secretary Donna E. Shalala, currently president of the University of Miami, are co-chairing the committee.
Other commission members are:
-- Marc Giammatteo, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and former Army captain whose leg was severely injured during a rocket-propelled grenade attack in Iraq in 2004. Giammatteo has undergone more than 30 surgeries at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and served as an unofficial patient advocate at the hospital from 2004 to 2006. He currently is a student at Harvard Business School.
-- Jose Ramos, a former Navy petty officer 3rd class who lost an arm in combat during his second deployment to Iraq. Ramos, who previously served a tour of duty in Afghanistan, was a hospital corpsman who treated soldiers wounded in Iraq. He is currently a student at George Mason University.
-- Tammy Edwards, whose husband, Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Edwards, was severely burned in Iraq when a 500-pound bomb exploded under his vehicle. Since his injury, she has provided support for families of wounded veterans in her community of Cibolo, Texas. She is a research assistant at The Geneva Foundation.
-- Kenneth Fisher, chairman and chief executive officer of Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that constructs homes for families of hospitalized military members and veterans. Fisher Houses serve 8,500 families a year at little or no cost.
-- C. Martin Harris, chief information officer and chairman of information technology at the Cleveland Clinic and a practicing physician since 1987. He has served on government and private-sector commissions that have addressed health care interoperability issues.
-- Edward Eckenhoff, president and CEO of the National Rehabilitation Hospital and a member of the District of Columbia Hospital Association Board of Directors who is an innovator in the field of rehabilitation medicine.
-- Gail Wilensky, an economist and senior fellow at Project Hope, an international health education foundation who also serves as co-chair of DoD's Task Force on Future Health Care.
Bush praised the qualifications and commitment of the commission members. "We've got compassionate people who all care about whether or not our government is fulfilling its responsibility to make sure our health care systems ... are meeting our obligations," he said.
As the commission conducts its review, DoD and the VA also are working to improve the way their agencies serve wounded warriors.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has formed an independent review group to assess outpatient treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Naval Medical Center. The group held its first meeting March 1 and will report on its initial findings early next month.
"This deadline is relatively short for a reason: to make sure we identify additional flaws in the system and get on with fixing them as fast as possible," Gates told reporters during a Pentagon roundtable last week.
Gates told reporters he also has ordered acting Army Secretary Pete Geren to report to him later this month about the service's action plan to fix the outpatient situation at Walter Reed.
In addition, said he tasked David S.C. Chu, defense undersecretary for personnel and readiness, and Dr. William Winkenwerder, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, to conduct a comprehensive review of all medical care programs, facilities and procedures departmentwide to ensure DoD is providing servicemembers the standard of care they deserve. "I have told them that resources will not be an issue," he said.
Meanwhile, Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson established a new interagency task force at Bush's direction to examine the processes for combat veterans seeking services and benefits from the VA and other federal agencies.
VA established a Web site that allows active-duty servicemembers, veterans, family members and others to provide input about their experiences to the task force.
"As the task force moves forward in studying how we can enhance services and cut red tape, we believe it's important to provide veterans, their family members and others with the opportunity to share their ideas and experiences," Nicholson said.
This article is sponsored by criminal justice online leadership as well as police and military personnel who have authored books.
Fallon Takes Reins of Central Command
By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – For the first time since the United States created a combatant command with responsibility for the Middle East, Northern Africa and Southwest and Central Asia, a naval officer took over the helm of U.S. Central Command here today. Navy Adm. William J. Fallon, a naval aviator with almost 40 years of service, assumed duties as commander of CENTCOM from Army Gen. John P. Abizaid, who is retiring after leading CENTCOM for more than three years.
Fallon comes from commanding U.S. Pacific Command, the largest geographical command in the military, where he worked to improve military ties with China.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates presided over today's ceremony. He praised Abizaid for the work he did in the Middle East while commanding CENTCOM. Abizaid studied the region's culture extensively, becoming an expert and forging important relationships with the people, Gates said. Abizaid took over the command early in the Iraq conflict, at a time when there was much work to be done, he noted.
"He accepted enormous responsibility at a crucial time in history," Gates said of Abizaid.
Under Abizaid's leadership, CENTCOM helped Iraq conduct three elections, form a new government and constitution, and grow the Iraqi security forces threefold, Gates said. In Afghanistan, he noted, thanks in large part to Abizaid's efforts, NATO countries have stepped up and taken responsibility for the security of the country, in partnership with Afghan security forces.
Gates said he is confident that Fallon will build on Abizaid's good work, noting that the admiral brings decades of experience and a record of success to the command. He praised Fallon as one of the military's top strategic thinkers, who built important relationships with other nations during his time in Pacific Command.
After relinquishing command to Fallon, Abizaid thanked the members of the coalition for the work they do with CENTCOM. He also thanked the officers under his command, who he said do so much to fight the war on terror, provide humanitarian assistance, and strengthen partnerships around the world.
"Never has a commander been so blessed by a team of capable and heroic leaders," Abizaid said.
Abizaid noted that war is never easy, and the war on terror will be long and will require "courage and time." Victory against terror will require not only military effort, but also political and diplomatic work, he said.
"This conflict is greater than the sum of Iraq and Afghanistan," Abizaid said.
Upon taking command, Fallon thanked Abizaid for the legacy he left and pledged to strengthen and nurture relationships with members of his command and other nations. Fallon acknowledged that much work lies ahead of CENTCOM in the months ahead, and that Iraq and Afghanistan are both at critical points. However, he said, the troops and commanders of CENTCOM and allied countries are capable and dedicated, and can help the people of the Middle East achieve what most people in the world want: peace, security and stability.
"In concert with our allies, if we put our minds to it, there's very little we can't accomplish," Fallon said.
CENTCOM was created in 1983 and is responsible for U.S. military activity in a 27-country region in the area between U.S. European Command and Pacific Command. CENTCOM is responsible for the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, focused on defeating terrorism, strengthening regional stability, building the capacity of partner nations, and protecting U.S. interests in the region.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – For the first time since the United States created a combatant command with responsibility for the Middle East, Northern Africa and Southwest and Central Asia, a naval officer took over the helm of U.S. Central Command here today. Navy Adm. William J. Fallon, a naval aviator with almost 40 years of service, assumed duties as commander of CENTCOM from Army Gen. John P. Abizaid, who is retiring after leading CENTCOM for more than three years.
Fallon comes from commanding U.S. Pacific Command, the largest geographical command in the military, where he worked to improve military ties with China.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates presided over today's ceremony. He praised Abizaid for the work he did in the Middle East while commanding CENTCOM. Abizaid studied the region's culture extensively, becoming an expert and forging important relationships with the people, Gates said. Abizaid took over the command early in the Iraq conflict, at a time when there was much work to be done, he noted.
"He accepted enormous responsibility at a crucial time in history," Gates said of Abizaid.
Under Abizaid's leadership, CENTCOM helped Iraq conduct three elections, form a new government and constitution, and grow the Iraqi security forces threefold, Gates said. In Afghanistan, he noted, thanks in large part to Abizaid's efforts, NATO countries have stepped up and taken responsibility for the security of the country, in partnership with Afghan security forces.
Gates said he is confident that Fallon will build on Abizaid's good work, noting that the admiral brings decades of experience and a record of success to the command. He praised Fallon as one of the military's top strategic thinkers, who built important relationships with other nations during his time in Pacific Command.
After relinquishing command to Fallon, Abizaid thanked the members of the coalition for the work they do with CENTCOM. He also thanked the officers under his command, who he said do so much to fight the war on terror, provide humanitarian assistance, and strengthen partnerships around the world.
"Never has a commander been so blessed by a team of capable and heroic leaders," Abizaid said.
Abizaid noted that war is never easy, and the war on terror will be long and will require "courage and time." Victory against terror will require not only military effort, but also political and diplomatic work, he said.
"This conflict is greater than the sum of Iraq and Afghanistan," Abizaid said.
Upon taking command, Fallon thanked Abizaid for the legacy he left and pledged to strengthen and nurture relationships with members of his command and other nations. Fallon acknowledged that much work lies ahead of CENTCOM in the months ahead, and that Iraq and Afghanistan are both at critical points. However, he said, the troops and commanders of CENTCOM and allied countries are capable and dedicated, and can help the people of the Middle East achieve what most people in the world want: peace, security and stability.
"In concert with our allies, if we put our minds to it, there's very little we can't accomplish," Fallon said.
CENTCOM was created in 1983 and is responsible for U.S. military activity in a 27-country region in the area between U.S. European Command and Pacific Command. CENTCOM is responsible for the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, focused on defeating terrorism, strengthening regional stability, building the capacity of partner nations, and protecting U.S. interests in the region.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Utah Expresses Gratitude to Troops
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – Utah will observe "Thank a Soldier Day" tomorrow and March 19 to express gratitude to the servicemembers who protect America's freedoms. Tomorrow's public events will feature military equipment displays, a climbing wall, camouflage face-painting for children, concessions, and music. Speakers will include local and state politicians and military personnel.
March 19 is the official, state-designated day for the observance, but organizers said most activities take place on the Saturday before the official day to facilitate high participation.
"We want to create a culture of gratitude for the men and women that serve our country," Jared Gomez, president of Thank a Soldier Day, said. "We want to help especially the youth understand why it is that we can live the lives we do."
It doesn't matter how anyone feels about the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq, he added. "There are people that are sacrificing their lives every day for us, and we need to respect that," Gomez said.
To honor that sacrifice, the Thank a Soldier organization is sponsoring an injured servicemember who has recently returned from Iraq or Afghanistan. The organization will, through donations, provide assistance to that servicemember who may have needs the government is not able to meet, Gomez said.
"This is kind of our small way of showing our gratitude to them and that we appreciate their service," he said.
He also hopes that the public will take a moment to do just that on March 19, which is set aside to personally say "thank you" to a servicemember, he said.
"The idea is, whenever you walk past a soldier on the street ... you just stop and say, 'Thank you,'" Gomez said. "What I'd like to see happen is for all the news stations, all the radio stations on that day ... just stop and say, Today is Thank A Soldier Day.' We want to express our gratitude. Thank you for all you do.'"
Thank a Soldier Day was started by seniors at West Jordan High School three years ago. Rachelle Romero initiated the day for personal reasons, Gomez said.
"She has some family (members) that are members of the military, (and) she was really tired of all the negative news about the war and about soldiers," he said. "She didn't think it was right, so she wanted to do something."
That original "something" was creating a huge banner for her school to sign before it was sent to Iraq. That sparked interest in doing something more, and a small group of students worked with the high school's assistant principal to create a day of recognition for servicemembers, Gomez said.
This year, Thank a Solider Day's gratitude and goodwill are expanding to help America Supports You home-front member Operation Give, a care package group based out of Salt Lake City.
America Supports You is a Defense Department program highlighting ways Americans and the corporate sector are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
"They initially contacted me just to have me actually speak during (tomorrow's) program," Paul Holton, a chief warrant officer in the Utah Army National Guard, said. "They wanted to get more of an ongoing project or organization involved in the Thank a Soldier Day organization, so we came up with 'Thank a Soldier for the Week.'"
The groups have placed 15 drop boxes around the West Jordan area so residents who'd like to donate convenience items, food and entertainment items can do so. Those wishing to donate don't have to be local residents, though. Donations are accepted from across the country.
"The can either look at the list and send us things that are on the list, or we would prefer that they donate money ... to purchase things that are needed," Holton said, explaining that cash donations help keep the cost of shipping down. "But they can go on our Web site ... and donate."
Money donated through Operation Give's Web site can be earmarked for any specific project the group runs, including Operation Support the Troops, which the Thank a Soldier for a Week collection drive is benefiting. The Web site also provides the mailing address to donate items.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 16, 2007 – Utah will observe "Thank a Soldier Day" tomorrow and March 19 to express gratitude to the servicemembers who protect America's freedoms. Tomorrow's public events will feature military equipment displays, a climbing wall, camouflage face-painting for children, concessions, and music. Speakers will include local and state politicians and military personnel.
March 19 is the official, state-designated day for the observance, but organizers said most activities take place on the Saturday before the official day to facilitate high participation.
"We want to create a culture of gratitude for the men and women that serve our country," Jared Gomez, president of Thank a Soldier Day, said. "We want to help especially the youth understand why it is that we can live the lives we do."
It doesn't matter how anyone feels about the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq, he added. "There are people that are sacrificing their lives every day for us, and we need to respect that," Gomez said.
To honor that sacrifice, the Thank a Soldier organization is sponsoring an injured servicemember who has recently returned from Iraq or Afghanistan. The organization will, through donations, provide assistance to that servicemember who may have needs the government is not able to meet, Gomez said.
"This is kind of our small way of showing our gratitude to them and that we appreciate their service," he said.
He also hopes that the public will take a moment to do just that on March 19, which is set aside to personally say "thank you" to a servicemember, he said.
"The idea is, whenever you walk past a soldier on the street ... you just stop and say, 'Thank you,'" Gomez said. "What I'd like to see happen is for all the news stations, all the radio stations on that day ... just stop and say, Today is Thank A Soldier Day.' We want to express our gratitude. Thank you for all you do.'"
Thank a Soldier Day was started by seniors at West Jordan High School three years ago. Rachelle Romero initiated the day for personal reasons, Gomez said.
"She has some family (members) that are members of the military, (and) she was really tired of all the negative news about the war and about soldiers," he said. "She didn't think it was right, so she wanted to do something."
That original "something" was creating a huge banner for her school to sign before it was sent to Iraq. That sparked interest in doing something more, and a small group of students worked with the high school's assistant principal to create a day of recognition for servicemembers, Gomez said.
This year, Thank a Solider Day's gratitude and goodwill are expanding to help America Supports You home-front member Operation Give, a care package group based out of Salt Lake City.
America Supports You is a Defense Department program highlighting ways Americans and the corporate sector are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
"They initially contacted me just to have me actually speak during (tomorrow's) program," Paul Holton, a chief warrant officer in the Utah Army National Guard, said. "They wanted to get more of an ongoing project or organization involved in the Thank a Soldier Day organization, so we came up with 'Thank a Soldier for the Week.'"
The groups have placed 15 drop boxes around the West Jordan area so residents who'd like to donate convenience items, food and entertainment items can do so. Those wishing to donate don't have to be local residents, though. Donations are accepted from across the country.
"The can either look at the list and send us things that are on the list, or we would prefer that they donate money ... to purchase things that are needed," Holton said, explaining that cash donations help keep the cost of shipping down. "But they can go on our Web site ... and donate."
Money donated through Operation Give's Web site can be earmarked for any specific project the group runs, including Operation Support the Troops, which the Thank a Soldier for a Week collection drive is benefiting. The Web site also provides the mailing address to donate items.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Mom Asks Americans to 'Have a Heart'
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – An Army mom in Malone, N.Y., is asking Americans to show their compassion and make life a little more pleasant for troops serving overseas through her Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier program. Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting the ways Americans and the corporate sector are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
Gladys Walker started the organization in December 2002, when the popularity of her care packages spread beyond her son's unit.
"He called and said there were others ... that weren't getting any mail and they weren't getting any supplies, so we sponsored them," she said. "We deal with every branch of the military, plus we've even (helped) civilians that are stationed over there."
Her son, Army Sgt. Robert Collins, is serving his third tour in Iraq.
Each week, she and five of her 18 regular volunteers pack and ship 100 to 200 boxes of comfort, hygiene and entertainment items for troops from her list of nearly 1,000 servicemembers, Walker said.
"The most requested (item), believe it or not, is still those little tuna and cracker packets," she said, adding that needed items are sent when requested, as well.
While care packages are her main focus, Walker also works to help families with financial difficulties, she said. One instance found her helping to cover unexpected expenses of soldier's funeral that the family couldn't afford at the time. "We've done big things and little things," she said.
But it all comes with a price tag, and she sometimes has multiple fundraisers going at once. Yet there are bright spots.
Inclusion on the America Supports You site has given Walker's group visibility, drawing both requests and offers of assistance, she said.
A local group has agreed to adopt four soldiers for a year, a $10-per-month commitment, Walker said. Another group is sponsoring 50 servicemembers through the group's 2X program, which, at $20 per month, covers both the care package items and postage.
She also said America Supports You membership lends her group credibility. "(Potential donors) see that larger organizations are supportive of us little guys," Walker said. "That helps."
Visit Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – An Army mom in Malone, N.Y., is asking Americans to show their compassion and make life a little more pleasant for troops serving overseas through her Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier program. Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program highlighting the ways Americans and the corporate sector are supporting the nation's servicemembers.
Gladys Walker started the organization in December 2002, when the popularity of her care packages spread beyond her son's unit.
"He called and said there were others ... that weren't getting any mail and they weren't getting any supplies, so we sponsored them," she said. "We deal with every branch of the military, plus we've even (helped) civilians that are stationed over there."
Her son, Army Sgt. Robert Collins, is serving his third tour in Iraq.
Each week, she and five of her 18 regular volunteers pack and ship 100 to 200 boxes of comfort, hygiene and entertainment items for troops from her list of nearly 1,000 servicemembers, Walker said.
"The most requested (item), believe it or not, is still those little tuna and cracker packets," she said, adding that needed items are sent when requested, as well.
While care packages are her main focus, Walker also works to help families with financial difficulties, she said. One instance found her helping to cover unexpected expenses of soldier's funeral that the family couldn't afford at the time. "We've done big things and little things," she said.
But it all comes with a price tag, and she sometimes has multiple fundraisers going at once. Yet there are bright spots.
Inclusion on the America Supports You site has given Walker's group visibility, drawing both requests and offers of assistance, she said.
A local group has agreed to adopt four soldiers for a year, a $10-per-month commitment, Walker said. Another group is sponsoring 50 servicemembers through the group's 2X program, which, at $20 per month, covers both the care package items and postage.
She also said America Supports You membership lends her group credibility. "(Potential donors) see that larger organizations are supportive of us little guys," Walker said. "That helps."
Visit Have a Heart/Adopt a Soldier
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Acquisitions Chief Outlines Streamlined Processes
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – As the Defense Department works to simplify its acquisitions processes, it can borrow best practices from business, but also must factor in variables businesses simply don't have to deal with, the Pentagon's acquisitions chief told reporters here yesterday. Ken Kreig, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, told reporters people often ask him, "Why don't you run this like a company?"
"First of all, no company would be this large (and) complex and try to structure this way," Kreig said. DoD is the largest, most complex organization in the world, owning more than 600,000 buildings in 146 countries, and with assets and liabilities that exceed those of WalMart, Exxon, Ford and IBM combined, defense officials noted.
But the differences go beyond mere scale, Kreig said. "No company would try to manage this level of risk. No company would try to surge and reduce like the Defense Department tries to do. And so managing it just like a company is hard," he said.
For-profit companies also have a concrete way to measure their efforts, based on the bottom line, Kreig said. That's not as simple within DoD, he noted, where effectiveness is measured not by numbers on a spread sheet, but by capability.
"At the end of the day, what we do in the Defense Department is provide capability to warfighters. ... Whether they're engaged in war or whether they're engaged in peacetime operations, like the tsunami, we provide them capability," Kreig said. "They take all the capability and they do amazing things with it."
Another big difference between how DoD and the private sector do business boils down to their ability to get across-the-board agreement to an initiative and sticking with it to ensure it succeeds, he said.
"In the private sector, if you make a decision to invest capital, particularly a sizeable decision to invest capital, that goes all the way to the chairman and probably to the board if it's a reasonable amount," he said. Everyone within the company - directors of the manufacturing, marketing, sales, finance and other departments - agrees to the decision and commits to making it work.
Not so in the government, he said, where a tremendous number of stakeholders often work toward contradictory goals, and year-to-year budget fluctuations can derail an initiative before it's able to bear fruit.
Despite these challenges, Kreig said he's confident efforts under way to improve DoD's acquisition processes are having a direct impact on warfighters while making more effective use of taxpayer dollars.
These initiatives, detailed in the newly released Defense Acquisition Transformation Report to Congress, aim to make acquisition systems more effective, efficient and responsive to warfighter needs, he said.
The report, sent to Congress last month, describes the departmentwide drive to transform enterprisewide acquisition processes, systems and management structures. It notes the basic strategic choice it boils down to: How DoD determines which assets and investments will best provide warfighter capability.
Kreig outlined seven basic goals DoD's acquisition transformation initiatives aim to achieve:
-- A top-quality work force that's critical to disciplined, accountable and ethical acquisition process;
-- DoD's core values, policy objectives, joint capability needs and resources, all focused together to reducing risk and provide predictable schedules and cost;
-- An acquisition system that's able to respond to combat commanders with product-ready capabilities, on time and on cost;
-- Realistic, cost-effective plans and programs essential to preserving flexible and responsive options;
-- An environment within DoD that encourages industry to create and sustain reliable and cost-effective industrial capabilities sufficient to meet the department's strategic objectives; and
-- Efficient and effective acquisition performance, achieved through effective structure and integration of efforts within the department and fewer layers of authority.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the Senate during his confirmation hearing in December he will continue to champion acquisition reforms under way within DoD. "I will seek to balance the acquisition and operational testing processes between reducing costs and accelerating schedules," he told the panel.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – As the Defense Department works to simplify its acquisitions processes, it can borrow best practices from business, but also must factor in variables businesses simply don't have to deal with, the Pentagon's acquisitions chief told reporters here yesterday. Ken Kreig, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, told reporters people often ask him, "Why don't you run this like a company?"
"First of all, no company would be this large (and) complex and try to structure this way," Kreig said. DoD is the largest, most complex organization in the world, owning more than 600,000 buildings in 146 countries, and with assets and liabilities that exceed those of WalMart, Exxon, Ford and IBM combined, defense officials noted.
But the differences go beyond mere scale, Kreig said. "No company would try to manage this level of risk. No company would try to surge and reduce like the Defense Department tries to do. And so managing it just like a company is hard," he said.
For-profit companies also have a concrete way to measure their efforts, based on the bottom line, Kreig said. That's not as simple within DoD, he noted, where effectiveness is measured not by numbers on a spread sheet, but by capability.
"At the end of the day, what we do in the Defense Department is provide capability to warfighters. ... Whether they're engaged in war or whether they're engaged in peacetime operations, like the tsunami, we provide them capability," Kreig said. "They take all the capability and they do amazing things with it."
Another big difference between how DoD and the private sector do business boils down to their ability to get across-the-board agreement to an initiative and sticking with it to ensure it succeeds, he said.
"In the private sector, if you make a decision to invest capital, particularly a sizeable decision to invest capital, that goes all the way to the chairman and probably to the board if it's a reasonable amount," he said. Everyone within the company - directors of the manufacturing, marketing, sales, finance and other departments - agrees to the decision and commits to making it work.
Not so in the government, he said, where a tremendous number of stakeholders often work toward contradictory goals, and year-to-year budget fluctuations can derail an initiative before it's able to bear fruit.
Despite these challenges, Kreig said he's confident efforts under way to improve DoD's acquisition processes are having a direct impact on warfighters while making more effective use of taxpayer dollars.
These initiatives, detailed in the newly released Defense Acquisition Transformation Report to Congress, aim to make acquisition systems more effective, efficient and responsive to warfighter needs, he said.
The report, sent to Congress last month, describes the departmentwide drive to transform enterprisewide acquisition processes, systems and management structures. It notes the basic strategic choice it boils down to: How DoD determines which assets and investments will best provide warfighter capability.
Kreig outlined seven basic goals DoD's acquisition transformation initiatives aim to achieve:
-- A top-quality work force that's critical to disciplined, accountable and ethical acquisition process;
-- DoD's core values, policy objectives, joint capability needs and resources, all focused together to reducing risk and provide predictable schedules and cost;
-- An acquisition system that's able to respond to combat commanders with product-ready capabilities, on time and on cost;
-- Realistic, cost-effective plans and programs essential to preserving flexible and responsive options;
-- An environment within DoD that encourages industry to create and sustain reliable and cost-effective industrial capabilities sufficient to meet the department's strategic objectives; and
-- Efficient and effective acquisition performance, achieved through effective structure and integration of efforts within the department and fewer layers of authority.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the Senate during his confirmation hearing in December he will continue to champion acquisition reforms under way within DoD. "I will seek to balance the acquisition and operational testing processes between reducing costs and accelerating schedules," he told the panel.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Top Enlisted Servicemember Gets Special Delivery
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – The military's top enlisted servicemember received a very special care package at his Pentagon office this morning. Jeanette Cram, founder of troop-support group Treat the Troops, personally delivered a box of chocolate chip cookies to Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Treat the Troops is a member of the Defense Department's America Supports You program that highlights and facilitates support for the nation's men and women in uniform.
Cram has been shipping cookies to deployed servicemembers around the world for 17 years with the help of her volunteers, or "crumbs" in 38 states. "I do this for all of them," Cram said. "I can't imagine not doing it for the soldiers.
"There's a lot of us out here that love you, and we want you to come home safely, but we know you want to do the job," she added, directing her comment directly to the servicemembers.
When Cram began her effort in 1990, her first box of cookies went to an Army staff sergeant based out of Fort Stewart, Ga. Valeria Smith wrote to thank Cram for her kindness, but that was the last contact she had with the "Cookie Lady" as Cram has come to be known. "I've never found her," Cram said.
Cram acknowledges that after nearly two decades and more than 430,000 cookies, it's more complicated to send packages than it was when she sent Smith that first box in 1990. Now, her shipments typically require a servicemember's name and mailing address, and Cram said she understands why it's necessary.
"Back in 1990 ... when you would send a box, you could just send it to 'Any Soldier,'" she said. "I can understand they need that paperwork. They need to know who these cookies are coming from."
Gainey said Cram's long-term efforts, which send a message of total commitment, are even more important today than when she began. They prove to the troops that the people back home are behind them, and that's where the biggest risk of losing the war lies - with the American public, he said.
"We've got to stay strong at home," Gainey said, acknowledging that Cram is doing her part to make that happen. "She's building up the morale of all the troops that bite into one of those chocolate chip cookies.
"She's doing more for her country than she'll ever realize," he added.
What Cram does realize is that, while every cookie may bring a smile, perhaps not every servicemember wants a cookie. "America Supports You has a lot of organizations," she said. "There's a lot of things you might need, (and) we're going to connect you with the right people."
Treat the Troops was fortunate to be connected with the right people last year.
DuPont Teflon organized "The Great American Cookie Swap," which encouraged friends and family to come together and send homemade cookies to deployed troops. For each of the more than 17,000 cookie swap parties registered through the DuPont Teflon Web site, the company is making a donation to help offset Treat the Troops' cost of baking and shipping cookies.
"It's an honor and we're deeply appreciative to show our support for our combined efforts, and to made donations and provide support to groups like America Supports You and Treat the Troops," Dan Turner, a DuPont Teflon spokesman, said. "We're glad to be able to be a part of that effort."
Cram and Turner presented each other gifts of appreciation after meeting with Gainey.
As for the box of cookies Cram brought Gainey, he said he'd sample a couple and run some extra miles to work them off. The rest of the five dozen cookies will brighten the days of some of the injured servicemembers recovering at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., he said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 15, 2007 – The military's top enlisted servicemember received a very special care package at his Pentagon office this morning. Jeanette Cram, founder of troop-support group Treat the Troops, personally delivered a box of chocolate chip cookies to Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Treat the Troops is a member of the Defense Department's America Supports You program that highlights and facilitates support for the nation's men and women in uniform.
Cram has been shipping cookies to deployed servicemembers around the world for 17 years with the help of her volunteers, or "crumbs" in 38 states. "I do this for all of them," Cram said. "I can't imagine not doing it for the soldiers.
"There's a lot of us out here that love you, and we want you to come home safely, but we know you want to do the job," she added, directing her comment directly to the servicemembers.
When Cram began her effort in 1990, her first box of cookies went to an Army staff sergeant based out of Fort Stewart, Ga. Valeria Smith wrote to thank Cram for her kindness, but that was the last contact she had with the "Cookie Lady" as Cram has come to be known. "I've never found her," Cram said.
Cram acknowledges that after nearly two decades and more than 430,000 cookies, it's more complicated to send packages than it was when she sent Smith that first box in 1990. Now, her shipments typically require a servicemember's name and mailing address, and Cram said she understands why it's necessary.
"Back in 1990 ... when you would send a box, you could just send it to 'Any Soldier,'" she said. "I can understand they need that paperwork. They need to know who these cookies are coming from."
Gainey said Cram's long-term efforts, which send a message of total commitment, are even more important today than when she began. They prove to the troops that the people back home are behind them, and that's where the biggest risk of losing the war lies - with the American public, he said.
"We've got to stay strong at home," Gainey said, acknowledging that Cram is doing her part to make that happen. "She's building up the morale of all the troops that bite into one of those chocolate chip cookies.
"She's doing more for her country than she'll ever realize," he added.
What Cram does realize is that, while every cookie may bring a smile, perhaps not every servicemember wants a cookie. "America Supports You has a lot of organizations," she said. "There's a lot of things you might need, (and) we're going to connect you with the right people."
Treat the Troops was fortunate to be connected with the right people last year.
DuPont Teflon organized "The Great American Cookie Swap," which encouraged friends and family to come together and send homemade cookies to deployed troops. For each of the more than 17,000 cookie swap parties registered through the DuPont Teflon Web site, the company is making a donation to help offset Treat the Troops' cost of baking and shipping cookies.
"It's an honor and we're deeply appreciative to show our support for our combined efforts, and to made donations and provide support to groups like America Supports You and Treat the Troops," Dan Turner, a DuPont Teflon spokesman, said. "We're glad to be able to be a part of that effort."
Cram and Turner presented each other gifts of appreciation after meeting with Gainey.
As for the box of cookies Cram brought Gainey, he said he'd sample a couple and run some extra miles to work them off. The rest of the five dozen cookies will brighten the days of some of the injured servicemembers recovering at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., he said.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Independent Review Group Hosts First Public Meeting
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
March 14, 2007 – An independent review group charged by the defense secretary with identifying shortcomings and making recommendations for improvements in care for injured troops held its first public meeting at Walter Reed Army Medical Center yesterday. The group heard emotional testimony ranging from praise and support to tearful pleas for help and change.
"What we really want from you is as much as you have to tell us," Togo West, a former Veterans Affairs and Army secretary, told those who had come to be heard.
Anyone wanting to speak was allowed five minutes at the microphone, but no one was stopped if they went over their allotment. The panel promised individual meetings and follow-ups. Hearing the stories, panel members said, was their priority, and there would be no repercussions for anyone testifying.
For nearly three hours, one by one, servicemembers, family members and veterans took turns at the microphone in a town-hall like session, delivering the details of their experiences -- good and bad -- at the facility that has been thrust into the national spotlight in recent weeks after reports of poor outpatient soldier care and bureaucratic medical board processes.
The sometimes emotional testimony took roller-coaster-like turns, with some passionately defending the quality of care and the staff at the center, and others opening crying and pleading to the panel for help.
While most proclaimed that the doctors and medical staff at Walter Reed provided exceptional care, even the staunchest defenders of the hospital conceded that changes are needed in the administration of its outpatient services and the medical and physical board processes.
"You know, what's failed to have been said in all this bad press ... is that Walter Reed is not as bad as (what's) being portrayed in the media," said one of the first speakers, an Army specialist injured in Afghanistan. "Yes, there's issues with the (medical) board process -- there are issues -- but that's been ongoing for years. It's not exclusive to Walter Reed."
He said that for five days he was bedridden with pain from his injuries, and that everyone in his chain of command, including his social worker and case manager, volunteered to deliver meals to his room.
He's only lived in Walter Reed's outpatient quarters for five months - a relative newcomer, considering some servicemembers spend two years or more in outpatient care. But still, he said, he is not daunted by the impending board process that promises mountains of paperwork, numerous appointments and certain frustration.
"They have helped me get supporting documents. Well, that eases me a little bit. Whenever I get ready to start my med board, I'm not as scared as what you might think, because I've got a good social worker. I have an excellent chain of command, and I do not feel that it's as big of an issue (as it's been made out to be)," he said.
The panel followed up by asking the soldier if he was coached prior to the meeting, to which he responded "No."
"I'm doing this on my own accord," he said. "This is my home right now. I'm sticking up for my home."
Other testimony included a veteran who asked the panel to visit the Armed Forces Retirement Home and survey what he called "significant medical, health and welfare" issues there.
Two Army National Guard soldiers testified to problems in the medical and physical board process. Doctors categorized their injuries as pre-existing, even though they had been cleared for duty and had no prior record of the injuries, they said.
The wife of an Army National Guard lieutenant colonel said no one from the hospital met him when her husband arrived at the airport here last year. Her children drove from West Virginia to pick him up. He was forced to stay in a local motel for weeks because there was no room at the center, and still has not been reimbursed for the room.
Near tears, she said she is tired of fighting the system.
"Sometimes you just feel like giving up, you know? I've got other things I need to take care of. I've got to take care of my husband and my children, and I don't really have the time or the energy or the strength left in me to deal with all of this here," she said.
The family is again staying in a motel, she said, for which she is not sure they will be reimbursed.
One father of a soldier injured in Ramadi, Iraq, said the center is the best facility a servicemember could ask for. He cited several changes there that were made even prior to the media attention at the center.
He said escorts now meet soldiers and families at the airport. Also, the Malogne House -- a temporary lodging facility on the Walter Reed grounds -- now accepts soldiers' meal cards. If soldiers are too ill to leave their rooms, meals will be delivered.
"My son has received the best care," he said.
A woman caring for her injured Army National Guard stepson said she is bothered by what others are surmising from recent media reports.
"I get phone calls and letters from family and friends daily who think that my son is living in squalid conditions here. He's not," she said.
Still, she said, holding up her calendar, her life is inundated with appointment-making, to the point that she cannot manage it by herself. She said that a central appointment system is needed so that all departments can schedule using a single servicemember appointment calendar.
"This is out of hand. I can't do this any more. My son was in the hospital again for four days last week, so all of his appointments scheduled (were) completely cancelled. We had to start over," she said.
She also cited several other family members she knew who were muddling through the benefits process unaware of benefits to which they are entitled and unsure of the claims process.
The nine-member panel made up of doctors, lawyers, congressmen and former senior military members was formed about two weeks ago, and since then has been visiting medical facilities. The group is working as a subcommittee of the Department of Defense Health Board and will report its findings through the board to the secretaries of the Army and Navy by April 16. They travel to the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., today for another such public meeting.
The review group may hold additional meetings for patients and families.
The group has established a Web site at www.ha.osd.mil/dhb/irg. There, anyone can submit comments. Click on "How You Can Help" in the left column of the review group Web site to provide comments.
The group also has opened a toll-free hotline at 1-866-268-2285.
Submissions will be recorded. All persons submitting comments can remain anonymous.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 14, 2007 – An independent review group charged by the defense secretary with identifying shortcomings and making recommendations for improvements in care for injured troops held its first public meeting at Walter Reed Army Medical Center yesterday. The group heard emotional testimony ranging from praise and support to tearful pleas for help and change.
"What we really want from you is as much as you have to tell us," Togo West, a former Veterans Affairs and Army secretary, told those who had come to be heard.
Anyone wanting to speak was allowed five minutes at the microphone, but no one was stopped if they went over their allotment. The panel promised individual meetings and follow-ups. Hearing the stories, panel members said, was their priority, and there would be no repercussions for anyone testifying.
For nearly three hours, one by one, servicemembers, family members and veterans took turns at the microphone in a town-hall like session, delivering the details of their experiences -- good and bad -- at the facility that has been thrust into the national spotlight in recent weeks after reports of poor outpatient soldier care and bureaucratic medical board processes.
The sometimes emotional testimony took roller-coaster-like turns, with some passionately defending the quality of care and the staff at the center, and others opening crying and pleading to the panel for help.
While most proclaimed that the doctors and medical staff at Walter Reed provided exceptional care, even the staunchest defenders of the hospital conceded that changes are needed in the administration of its outpatient services and the medical and physical board processes.
"You know, what's failed to have been said in all this bad press ... is that Walter Reed is not as bad as (what's) being portrayed in the media," said one of the first speakers, an Army specialist injured in Afghanistan. "Yes, there's issues with the (medical) board process -- there are issues -- but that's been ongoing for years. It's not exclusive to Walter Reed."
He said that for five days he was bedridden with pain from his injuries, and that everyone in his chain of command, including his social worker and case manager, volunteered to deliver meals to his room.
He's only lived in Walter Reed's outpatient quarters for five months - a relative newcomer, considering some servicemembers spend two years or more in outpatient care. But still, he said, he is not daunted by the impending board process that promises mountains of paperwork, numerous appointments and certain frustration.
"They have helped me get supporting documents. Well, that eases me a little bit. Whenever I get ready to start my med board, I'm not as scared as what you might think, because I've got a good social worker. I have an excellent chain of command, and I do not feel that it's as big of an issue (as it's been made out to be)," he said.
The panel followed up by asking the soldier if he was coached prior to the meeting, to which he responded "No."
"I'm doing this on my own accord," he said. "This is my home right now. I'm sticking up for my home."
Other testimony included a veteran who asked the panel to visit the Armed Forces Retirement Home and survey what he called "significant medical, health and welfare" issues there.
Two Army National Guard soldiers testified to problems in the medical and physical board process. Doctors categorized their injuries as pre-existing, even though they had been cleared for duty and had no prior record of the injuries, they said.
The wife of an Army National Guard lieutenant colonel said no one from the hospital met him when her husband arrived at the airport here last year. Her children drove from West Virginia to pick him up. He was forced to stay in a local motel for weeks because there was no room at the center, and still has not been reimbursed for the room.
Near tears, she said she is tired of fighting the system.
"Sometimes you just feel like giving up, you know? I've got other things I need to take care of. I've got to take care of my husband and my children, and I don't really have the time or the energy or the strength left in me to deal with all of this here," she said.
The family is again staying in a motel, she said, for which she is not sure they will be reimbursed.
One father of a soldier injured in Ramadi, Iraq, said the center is the best facility a servicemember could ask for. He cited several changes there that were made even prior to the media attention at the center.
He said escorts now meet soldiers and families at the airport. Also, the Malogne House -- a temporary lodging facility on the Walter Reed grounds -- now accepts soldiers' meal cards. If soldiers are too ill to leave their rooms, meals will be delivered.
"My son has received the best care," he said.
A woman caring for her injured Army National Guard stepson said she is bothered by what others are surmising from recent media reports.
"I get phone calls and letters from family and friends daily who think that my son is living in squalid conditions here. He's not," she said.
Still, she said, holding up her calendar, her life is inundated with appointment-making, to the point that she cannot manage it by herself. She said that a central appointment system is needed so that all departments can schedule using a single servicemember appointment calendar.
"This is out of hand. I can't do this any more. My son was in the hospital again for four days last week, so all of his appointments scheduled (were) completely cancelled. We had to start over," she said.
She also cited several other family members she knew who were muddling through the benefits process unaware of benefits to which they are entitled and unsure of the claims process.
The nine-member panel made up of doctors, lawyers, congressmen and former senior military members was formed about two weeks ago, and since then has been visiting medical facilities. The group is working as a subcommittee of the Department of Defense Health Board and will report its findings through the board to the secretaries of the Army and Navy by April 16. They travel to the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., today for another such public meeting.
The review group may hold additional meetings for patients and families.
The group has established a Web site at www.ha.osd.mil/dhb/irg. There, anyone can submit comments. Click on "How You Can Help" in the left column of the review group Web site to provide comments.
The group also has opened a toll-free hotline at 1-866-268-2285.
Submissions will be recorded. All persons submitting comments can remain anonymous.
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Test Center Focuses on Warfighters While Advancing Innovations
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
March 14, 2007 – As the Defense Department hurries to get the latest weapons systems and protective equipment to deployed troops, the Aberdeen Test Center here is operating at what its commander calls a "fast and furious rate" to ensure effectiveness and safety remain top priorities. The center, on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, is the most diverse of seven DoD test facilities and is a critical partner in the Army's Rapid Fielding Initiative, Army Col. John Rooney, center commander, told American Forces Press Service.
During the past two years, the center's scientists, technicians and engineers have tested about 30 rapid fielding initiatives a week, with more than 1,400 tests conducted last year alone. There's been an 87 percent increase in range activity here since fiscal 2001.
"That's all being driven by technologies to support the warfighter in the global war on terror," Rooney said.
Technology undergoing testing here range from enhancements to improve the way vehicles operate in combat to protective gear that helps troops survive enemy attacks.
"Our focus is on identifying the best technology available now, getting that capability to the warfighter today, and then improving on it," Rooney said.
This concept, referred to as "spiral development," turns the military's traditional fielding method on its head. Rather than developing, testing, then fine-tuning systems before sending them to the field, the priority now is to get new technologies to the troops quickly as possible, while continuing to improve on them, Rooney explained.
"We're inserting them into the war without the breadth and depth of testing that we would go through in peacetime," he said. "There's a whole different dynamic of supporting an Army at war that's different that in peacetime. You have to make sure you do an adequate job (of testing), but not at the expense of withholding capabilities."
Even with the big push to get new systems to deployed forces, Rooney said the military holds the line when it comes to safety. "We always do safety testing up front," he said. "But once we've done that, the big question becomes, 'What's enough testing to understand how (the system is) going to work (in combat)?'"
Evidence of this balancing act is prevalent throughout the combat theater. The Aberdeen Test Center staff tested for electromagnetic interference in Blue Force Tracker, a satellite-based Force XXI Battle Command, Brigade and Below communications system, as well as for additional radios placed on M1A1 Abrams command vehicles.
They tested new software for the M1A2 tank's nuclear, biological and chemical protective system, and a variety of bridging systems so deployed forces could cross gullies and low spots throughout the Iraqi desert.
But few examples demonstrate the emphasis on expedient fielding more clearly than how the military gets new vehicle protection to deployed troops.
As DoD's primary ground-vehicle tester, the Aberdeen Test Center started exploring ways to protect troops against roadside bombs in August 2003, as soon as these weapons began appearing in Iraq.
Rooney described the motivation that drove testers here to move quickly to evaluate the first add-on armor prototypes. "We knew that every day we didn't get the test finished was another day that we weren't getting these kits to the field, and that it could have a direct impact on someone's life," he said.
The earliest add-on armor kits sent to the combat theater had limitations, he acknowledged, but still offered far more protection than no additional armor. Even as these kits were being sent to the field, the Aberdeen Test Center staff continued to look into new systems to improve on them.
Since the start of the terror war, the center staff has subjected more than 500 potential solutions to the rigorous testing that takes place here every day, Rooney said. These prototypes have been fired at to test their ballistic protection and run through simulators, computer models and outdoor tracks to see how they stand up to real-world road conditions like they'll encounter in Iraq and Afghanistan.
A drive around the test ranges here -- nine miles of interconnecting roads and 25 permanently constructed courses -- shows some of the armor enhancements undergoing testing now. They range from a new add-on armor kit for Humvees that includes 450 pounds of armor to the front door alone and extra baseboard armor to a one-piece door assembly for the 5-ton M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck to an improved slat armor kit for the Stryker light armored vehicle.
The staff here developed the initial prototype for the Stryker's slat armor-a cage-like apparatus bolted to the Stryker to protect it from rocket-propelled grenades - and Rooney calls it one of the staff's proudest achievements. Although the first users didn't necessarily like the slat armor's looks, they quickly grew to love its protective qualities, he said.
While continuing to seek out newer, more effective ballistic protections, the staff here recognizes the impact of these improvements on overall vehicle performance, Rooney said. Putting additional armor on vehicles affects everything from the way they handle, to their tip-over point, to the life cycle of their shocks and suspension systems to their overall reliability.
"Every time something gets added or placed on a vehicle, you have to look at the whole range of effects," Rooney said. "When you evaluate protective armors, you have to work hand-in-glove with the automotive side, because even if a vehicle stops everything (in terms of ballistics), if it can't drive, it's of no value."
So evaluators here put vehicles through the paces in both outdoor courses and indoor simulations to replicate the worst of real-world conditions. Vehicles get exposed to bumps, ditches, slopes, mud and sand courses, fording basins and other difficult conditions similar to what deployed troops experience regularly.
"We're trying to create the circumstances that might cause failures so we can learn from it and address those issues here," Rooney said. "The whole intent is to fully understand the vehicle's capability."
Once a vehicle passes through the rigors imposed here, Rooney said he's confident they'll be ready for the demands warfighters will subject them to.
That's the mindset at the Aberdeen Test Center that Rooney said has continued to turn ideas into solutions for combat troops. "Our end product is a better equipped, better protected warfighter," he said.
As the Aberdeen Test Center supports today's warfighters, it's carrying on a tradition that began in 1917, when it helped prepare the military for World War I.
Today, the center continues testing a broad spectrum of military weapons systems and equipment: vehicles, weapon systems, ammunition, portable bridges, generators, night-vision devices, individual equipment ranging from boots and uniforms to helmets, and even surface and underwater naval systems.
As it conducts this testing, Rooney said the staff here never loses sight of the men and women on the front lines whose lives are at stake.
"We are a very busy, very diverse and very relevant test center, doing things that people know matters," he said. "We are helping the warfighter tremendously. And because people here recognize the direct impact of what they're contributing, job satisfaction is pretty easy to come by here."
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
March 14, 2007 – As the Defense Department hurries to get the latest weapons systems and protective equipment to deployed troops, the Aberdeen Test Center here is operating at what its commander calls a "fast and furious rate" to ensure effectiveness and safety remain top priorities. The center, on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, is the most diverse of seven DoD test facilities and is a critical partner in the Army's Rapid Fielding Initiative, Army Col. John Rooney, center commander, told American Forces Press Service.
During the past two years, the center's scientists, technicians and engineers have tested about 30 rapid fielding initiatives a week, with more than 1,400 tests conducted last year alone. There's been an 87 percent increase in range activity here since fiscal 2001.
"That's all being driven by technologies to support the warfighter in the global war on terror," Rooney said.
Technology undergoing testing here range from enhancements to improve the way vehicles operate in combat to protective gear that helps troops survive enemy attacks.
"Our focus is on identifying the best technology available now, getting that capability to the warfighter today, and then improving on it," Rooney said.
This concept, referred to as "spiral development," turns the military's traditional fielding method on its head. Rather than developing, testing, then fine-tuning systems before sending them to the field, the priority now is to get new technologies to the troops quickly as possible, while continuing to improve on them, Rooney explained.
"We're inserting them into the war without the breadth and depth of testing that we would go through in peacetime," he said. "There's a whole different dynamic of supporting an Army at war that's different that in peacetime. You have to make sure you do an adequate job (of testing), but not at the expense of withholding capabilities."
Even with the big push to get new systems to deployed forces, Rooney said the military holds the line when it comes to safety. "We always do safety testing up front," he said. "But once we've done that, the big question becomes, 'What's enough testing to understand how (the system is) going to work (in combat)?'"
Evidence of this balancing act is prevalent throughout the combat theater. The Aberdeen Test Center staff tested for electromagnetic interference in Blue Force Tracker, a satellite-based Force XXI Battle Command, Brigade and Below communications system, as well as for additional radios placed on M1A1 Abrams command vehicles.
They tested new software for the M1A2 tank's nuclear, biological and chemical protective system, and a variety of bridging systems so deployed forces could cross gullies and low spots throughout the Iraqi desert.
But few examples demonstrate the emphasis on expedient fielding more clearly than how the military gets new vehicle protection to deployed troops.
As DoD's primary ground-vehicle tester, the Aberdeen Test Center started exploring ways to protect troops against roadside bombs in August 2003, as soon as these weapons began appearing in Iraq.
Rooney described the motivation that drove testers here to move quickly to evaluate the first add-on armor prototypes. "We knew that every day we didn't get the test finished was another day that we weren't getting these kits to the field, and that it could have a direct impact on someone's life," he said.
The earliest add-on armor kits sent to the combat theater had limitations, he acknowledged, but still offered far more protection than no additional armor. Even as these kits were being sent to the field, the Aberdeen Test Center staff continued to look into new systems to improve on them.
Since the start of the terror war, the center staff has subjected more than 500 potential solutions to the rigorous testing that takes place here every day, Rooney said. These prototypes have been fired at to test their ballistic protection and run through simulators, computer models and outdoor tracks to see how they stand up to real-world road conditions like they'll encounter in Iraq and Afghanistan.
A drive around the test ranges here -- nine miles of interconnecting roads and 25 permanently constructed courses -- shows some of the armor enhancements undergoing testing now. They range from a new add-on armor kit for Humvees that includes 450 pounds of armor to the front door alone and extra baseboard armor to a one-piece door assembly for the 5-ton M977 heavy expanded mobility tactical truck to an improved slat armor kit for the Stryker light armored vehicle.
The staff here developed the initial prototype for the Stryker's slat armor-a cage-like apparatus bolted to the Stryker to protect it from rocket-propelled grenades - and Rooney calls it one of the staff's proudest achievements. Although the first users didn't necessarily like the slat armor's looks, they quickly grew to love its protective qualities, he said.
While continuing to seek out newer, more effective ballistic protections, the staff here recognizes the impact of these improvements on overall vehicle performance, Rooney said. Putting additional armor on vehicles affects everything from the way they handle, to their tip-over point, to the life cycle of their shocks and suspension systems to their overall reliability.
"Every time something gets added or placed on a vehicle, you have to look at the whole range of effects," Rooney said. "When you evaluate protective armors, you have to work hand-in-glove with the automotive side, because even if a vehicle stops everything (in terms of ballistics), if it can't drive, it's of no value."
So evaluators here put vehicles through the paces in both outdoor courses and indoor simulations to replicate the worst of real-world conditions. Vehicles get exposed to bumps, ditches, slopes, mud and sand courses, fording basins and other difficult conditions similar to what deployed troops experience regularly.
"We're trying to create the circumstances that might cause failures so we can learn from it and address those issues here," Rooney said. "The whole intent is to fully understand the vehicle's capability."
Once a vehicle passes through the rigors imposed here, Rooney said he's confident they'll be ready for the demands warfighters will subject them to.
That's the mindset at the Aberdeen Test Center that Rooney said has continued to turn ideas into solutions for combat troops. "Our end product is a better equipped, better protected warfighter," he said.
As the Aberdeen Test Center supports today's warfighters, it's carrying on a tradition that began in 1917, when it helped prepare the military for World War I.
Today, the center continues testing a broad spectrum of military weapons systems and equipment: vehicles, weapon systems, ammunition, portable bridges, generators, night-vision devices, individual equipment ranging from boots and uniforms to helmets, and even surface and underwater naval systems.
As it conducts this testing, Rooney said the staff here never loses sight of the men and women on the front lines whose lives are at stake.
"We are a very busy, very diverse and very relevant test center, doing things that people know matters," he said. "We are helping the warfighter tremendously. And because people here recognize the direct impact of what they're contributing, job satisfaction is pretty easy to come by here."
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
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