Saturday, August 18, 2007

Soto Cano Task Force Responds to Peru Earthquake

By Tech. Sgt. Sonny Cohrs
Special to American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - A task force composed of about 30
U.S. Army and Air Force personnel departed here today to support of relief efforts near Lima, Peru, following a devastating Aug. 15 earthquake that reportedly killed more than 500 people and left more than 1,500 injured. The task force, composed of a Mobile Surgery Team, communications specialists and a small security detail, departed the base aboard a C-130J assigned to the Maryland Air National Guard. The aircraft was the first of two scheduled to fly relief missions from Soto Cano.

"They said, 'an earthquake happened and we need you in Peru,'" said
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Will Morales, a loadmaster assigned to Maryland Air National Guard's 135th Airlift Squadron, based in Baltimore.

Morales and the rest of his crew were in the theater making supply runs from Puerto Rico to Honduras when their mission was diverted to support the relief effort.

Medics from Soto Cano's Medical Element deployed with a Mobile Surgery Team capable of setting up within a few hours of arriving in Peru. The surgery team brings with it all necessary equipment and personnel to conduct up to seven surgeries back to back upon arrival.

"We can get our equipment set up in an hour and a half to two hours, and two hours after we arrive, we can see our first patient," said
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Shelby Hatch, a scrub technician deployed to Soto Cano from Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Air Force Maj. Paul Valdez, deployed here from Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., said the valuable training the military has provided throughout his career has prepared him for events such as this.

"We're here so we can support our host nations with our expertise and our capabilities," he said. "This is what I've trained for my whole career (and) I'm very excited to be a part of this."

Army Lt. Col. Robert Rush, deployed from Madigan Army Medical Center on Fort Lewis, Wash., has had similar experience in Bosnia and Afghanistan, but said this will be his first disaster relief mission.

"Our team is designed to do life and limb-saving operations," he said. "We can't do very specialized surgeries, but we can stabilize patients so they can be treated later. This is what we're here for."

The task force is slated to be on the ground for approximately three days, although their stay may be extended by U.S. Southern Command. Members of the team said it's an unfortunate situation in Peru, and they are glad to help any way they can.

"You're not fully prepared for something like this until you're in the middle of it," said Army Lt. Col. Ed Zarzabal, commander of the deployed task force. "To be able to help someone in need like this is priceless."

The Medical Element's primary mission is to provide health service support and mobile surgical teams to U.S. Forces deployed in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. As the only continuous
U.S. Military Health presence in Central America, the Medical Element also provides emergency and routine medical treatment and support for all Defense Department health care beneficiaries in the area.

The medical element also supports all humanitarian and civic assistance, disaster relief, and personnel recovery missions in the region and reinforces regional international cooperation through U.S. Southern Command missions.

"As the only forward-deployed task force in Central America, we are uniquely positioned to respond to contingencies in Central and South America," said Air Force Lt. Col. Howard Jones, Joint Task Force-Bravo deputy commander. "This earthquake was a tragedy, but Joint Task Force-Bravo is ready and willing to help with recovery efforts however we are needed."

Soto Cano Air Base is home to Joint Task Force-Bravo, which supports U.S. interests in Central America by building regional cooperative security, developing military roles and missions, supporting the National Counterdrug Strategy, and exercising combined forces.

Soto Cano is located near the city of Comayagua, Honduras, and is co-located with the Honduran air force's Palmerola Air Base.

(
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Sonny Cohrs is assigned to Joint Task Force-Bravo Public Affairs.)

USNS Comfort Officials to Make 'Needs Assessment' in Peru

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - Two
military medical officials onboard the USNS Comfort will join a U.S. military mobile surgical team in Lima, Peru, to assist victims recovering from a magnitude 8 earthquake that struck the country Aug. 15 and claimed at least 500 lives. Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said he and Navy Rear Adm. David J. Smith, the Joint Staff surgeon, will fly to the Peruvian capital tonight or tomorrow, depending on when an aircraft becomes available. They will depart USNS Comfort, a ship that provides humanitarian relief and currently is docked off Ecuador's coast, roughly 800 miles from where doctors will arrive and make a "needs assessment."

"A group of us are heading over to do needs assessment, to thank the people involved, to be sure that all of our people are safe and to see what we can do to assist," Casscells said.

"The point of getting there early, for my team, is to say that we care about this, that humanitarian relief counts, that we will set aside other things to go there, that the United States cares about Peru, that we thank them for looking after our students and citizens who are down there," he said.

Casscells said those affected by the earthquake need clean water, water treatment materials, food and blankets. Others may require surgery, immunizations or vitamins, he said.

U.S. Southern Command has not ordered USNS Comfort to deploy to Peru. But officials onboard said it would take two to two and a half days to reach the country's affected areas if ordered there.

SOUTHCOM announced today that it will deploy a joint U.S. military mobile surgical team from Joint Task Force Bravo, based at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras, to aid relief efforts.

The 30-member
U.S. Army and Air Force surgical team will include a general surgeon, anesthesiologist, general practitioner, physician's assistant, nurses and medical technicians, and will partner with the U.S. Embassy, as well as Peruvian defense and health officials, to provide specialized medical services to area residents.

U.S. Southern Command Alerts Additional Medics for Peru Mission

American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - A
U.S. Air Force medical team consisting of six doctors, a physician's assistant, a pharmacist and six medical technicians will deploy Aug. 18 from Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas, to Ica, PerĂº, to assist residents affected by an 8.0 magnitude earthquake Aug. 15. The medical readiness team will travel by commercial air and is scheduled to arrive in Ica on Sunday. The deployment will augment other U.S. military medical personnel providing assistance to the South American nation.

Earlier today, SOUTHCOM deployed a 30-man mobile surgical team from Joint Task Force, Bravo, based at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras, to Peru to provide specialized medical care to communities affected by the disaster.

The deployments follow a disaster declaration issued Thursday by U.S. Ambassador to PerĂº, Peter Michael McKinley, paving the way for U.S. government aid.

In addition to deploying medical assistance teams, U.S. Southern Command is purchasing $50,000 in needed medical supplies to be donated to the Peruvian Ministry of Health to assist the country with its ongoing relief efforts.

(Based on a U.S. Southern Command press release.)

Pace Receives Japanese Emperor's Rising Sun Award

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 18, 2007 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff received one of Japan's most prestigious awards here yesterday for his work to strengthen the U.S.-Japanese alliance. Japanese Emperor Akihito approved awarding the Grand Cordon of the Rising Sun to
Marine Gen. Peter Pace, and personally signed the proclamation.

Japanese Defense Minister Yuriko Koike presided at the medal conferment ceremony at the Ministry of Defense. Pace accepted the award on behalf of the thousands of American servicemembers and their families who work every day to make the U.S.-Japanese Treaty work.

"I deeply appreciate the honor," Pace said during the ceremony in Koike's office. "It is not about me, but about the thousands of U.S. servicemembers who are guests in your country and work alongside the Japanese Self-defense Force."

He asked Koike to tell the emperor how humbled he was to receive the award, and how much he appreciates the honor.

During the ceremony, Koike cited Pace's efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Japanese Mutual Assistance and Cooperation Treaty. The general was recognized for his efforts to improve the
military-to-military relationship between the treaty allies, his work to improve interoperability between the militaries of the two countries and the agreement to realign U.S. forces in Japan.

Koike said Japan will continue to cooperate with the international community "and play our role in the fight against
terrorism." She said the shared values and belief in freedom of Japan and America make the alliance particularly powerful.

In a conversation with the minister after the ceremony, Pace said that although challenges lay ahead of the alliance, the "wonderful, long friendship strengthens both countries, so that no one on the planet can cause permanent harm to both our societies."

Pace and his family lived in Japan when he served as the deputy commander of U.S. Forces Japan from 1994 to 1996.

Koike noted that the chairman will be retiring from the
Marine Corps Oct. 1, but she said "the friendship between Japan and Gen. Peter Pace will go on forever."

Foundation Supports Veterans Past, Present

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 18, 2007 - Veterans health care facilities have a friend in a newly formed nonprofit organization. The Gerald T. Parks Memorial Foundation's mission is to support veterans, past and present, by providing funds to help repair and develop
military and Veterans Affairs health care facilities, one of the foundation's chairmen said.

"We have just begun our initial project," Terri Pendleton said. "We received our (nonprofit) status on June 28. Since then, we have contacted the Dorn VA Hospital in Columbia, S.C., as well as the outpatient clinic in Rock Hill."

Both of the facilities have provided the foundation with a list of needs specific to each facility. Some of the items requested will help make the Dorn VA Hospital as "home-like as possible," according to the foundation's Web site.

To raise the funds necessary to fulfill its mission, the foundation will conduct a variety of fundraisers.

"Our impact will be one location at a time," Pendleton said, "but we plan to move as quickly as possible."

The organization was founded for two very special reasons. The first is as a memorial to Pendleton's grandfather, Gerald T. Parks, who retired from the
Navy in 1970. "There was no one prouder to serve his country," the foundation's Web site states.

Secondly, foundation officials believe the men and women of the United States armed forces are the best America has to offer and, therefore, deserve the best, according to the site. That includes modern health care facilities to address the new types of injuries being suffered while fighting a modern war.

"We know (ours) is a worthwhile mission and a meaningful way to say thanks to veterans of all generations," Pendleton said.

The all-volunteer foundation recently became a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with
military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad. The foundation is anticipating benefiting from the exposure and credibility America Supports You provides its supporting groups.

Pace: Protecting Freedom Abroad Protects Nations' Own Freedoms

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

When nations protect other countries' freedoms, they also are strengthening their own, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here yesterday.
Marine Gen. Peter Pace spoke with Japanese defense reporters at the American embassy here. The general is in Japan meeting U.S. troops based in the country.

"I think that Japan, in helping to protect other people's freedoms, is in fact helping to strengthen freedom at home in Japan," Pace said.

Japan has helped within the limits of its constitution in operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The Japanese Maritime Self-defense Force has sent Aegis-class ships to support operations in the Indian Ocean. Japan has also stationed a refueling vessel in the region.

In Iraq, the Japanese Ground Self-defense Force was based in southern Iraq, providing engineering support to coalition forces stationed there. The Japanese engineers also provided humanitarian relief and built construction projects for the Iraqi people.

The Air Self-defense Force has provided cargo aircraft to support efforts in both Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Japanese participation in almost any overseas operation always is controversial domestically, due to Article 9 of the country's constitution, which renounces war.

Soto Cano Task Force Arrives in Peru

By Senior Airman Shaun Emery, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service

Aug. 18, 2007 - A team of airmen and soldiers from Joint Task Force Bravo at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, arrived here yesterday to provide medical care to those suffering in the aftermath of a magnitude 8.0 earthquake that devastated the region Aug. 15. The task force is the first American force to touch down in Pisco, joining other relief personnel from all over the world. Members of the Soto Cano Medical Element are equipped to treat up to 500 people without resupply.

"We will be able to provide basic medications, treat minor wounds, as well as perform a few minor or major surgeries," said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Robert Rush, the medical element's chief of surgery.

As citizens of Pisco begin the tedious process of reconstruction, there is a chance for additional injuries, officials said.

"If we need to treat additional traumas as people sift through rubble and debris, we will be able to take on those cases as well," Rush said.

In an area where basic medical care is in short supply, members of Joint Task Force Bravo are ready to provide everything they can.

"This is an opportunity for the
United States military to use its medical care capabilities in an austere environment," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jesus Antillon, assistant noncommissioned officer medical technician charge for the element. "This is what we train for. It is the reason we conduct exercises for all different scenarios -- so we can support other nations in times of need."

The Soto Cano task force, which comprises about 30
U.S. military personnel, includes a mobile surgery team, communications specialists and a small security detail.

(
Air Force Senior Airman Shaun Emery is assigned to Joint Task Force Bravo Public Affairs.)

Twin Sisters Help Promote, Support Brother in Iraq

By Sgt. Mike Alberts, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - Twin sisters and fellow
Army Spcs. Sarah and Angela Andrews helped promote their brother, Ryan McCarty, to sergeant here earlier this month. Both Sarah and Angela are supply specialists with 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, deployed to Forward Operating Base Warhorse, in Baqubah. Their brother, Ryan, is deployed with 2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, attached to 25th Infantry Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team in Kirkuk. All three siblings are natives of Bremerton, Wash., and were reunited by Army leaders for McCarty's promotion.

"(Angela and I) were both shocked that the Army would send us here to see Ryan get promoted," said Sarah, the elder sister by five minutes. "We're really glad that we could be here today for him."

Angela agreed. "Today is important for a lot of reasons, but mostly because we haven't seen our brother in over two years," she said. "Family is very important to all of us, and it means a lot to the whole family that we're here today for Ryan."

As for the newly minted Sergeant McCarty, having his sisters present for his promotion reinforced his opinion about the Army's commitment to family. However, it also required that he make a commitment to his Mom.

"It was very important to me that they're here today for a lot of reasons," McCarty said. "It's been a long time since I've seen my sisters. But also, it just shows that the Army does care about family and was willing to take two soldiers out of (combat) to support a family member.

"Of course, the family is proud of all three of us, and Mom made sure to remind me that I'd better not forget to take and send pictures."

(
Army Sgt. Mike Alberts is assigned to the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team.)

Group Surprises Soldier With Keys to Jeep

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - Thousands of servicemembers get care packages with surprises in them every day, thanks to caring folks back home. Some of the surprises, however, are bigger than others. Operation Gratitude, a nonprofit troop-support group, celebrated the packing of its 250,000th care package by teaming with Tri-State Jeep Dealers Association to put
Army Spc. Alfonso Sanchez in the driver's seat of a 2007 Jeep Patriot Limited.

"We were thrilled to give a Jeep Patriot to a true American patriot," said Carolyn Blashek, Operation Gratitude's founder. "It is an honor to be able to recognize him and, through him, all servicemembers in uniform."

Operation Gratitude is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with
military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.

Sanchez, who received the package containing keys to the Jeep on July 24, is assigned to the 16th Military
Police Brigade, which is serving in Iraq. He will receive the actual vehicle upon his redeployment to the states, hopefully by the end of the year, Blashek said.

Not expecting any packages, Sanchez didn't initially respond when his name was called.

"When they called my name, I was shocked, stunned, and I froze for a second, double-checking that my last name was Sanchez," he said. "The first thing I saw when I opened the box was a Jeep brochure, but they give those at the post exchange.

"I expected anything else but this vehicle," he said. "I don't have enough words, but with all my heart, thank you (Operation Gratitude) for all you do."

The package also contained a letter from Blashek explaining how her group was able to provide such a special "goodie" in their milestone package.

Sanchez won't be the only one who will receive a Jeep Patriot vehicle, however. Jeep, Major League Baseball's New York Mets and a New York television station launched a letter-writing campaign July 15. Letters of support for the troops will be accepted until Sept. 17, when one lucky letter writer letter will be randomly chosen to receive a Jeep Patriot. That person's letter will then be sent to Sanchez, as well. The winner of the letter-writing campaign will be announced during a Sept. 30 pre-game ceremony at Shea Stadium in Queens, N.Y., Blashek said.

"We are proud and humbled to contribute to a great organization like Operation Gratitude that does so much good in support of our troops," Eric Neilsen, president of the New York Dealer Association, said. "The Jeep was originally developed to serve our
military, and we are very pleased to be able to continue this tradition in a small way."

(Army Spc. Beatrice Florescu contributed to this report.)

U.S. Military Medics to Respond in Peru Quake-Relief Efforts

American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - A joint
U.S. military mobile surgical team from Joint Task Force Bravo, based at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras, will deploy to Peru today as part of U.S. Southern Command's response to an 8.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the South American nation Aug. 15. The deployment follows a disaster declaration issued yesterday by U.S. Ambassador to Peru Peter Michael McKinley.

The 30-member
U.S. Army and Air Force surgical team will include a general surgeon, anesthesiologist, general practitioner, physician's assistant, nurses and medical technicians and will partner with the U.S. Embassy, as well as Peruvian defense and health officials to provide specialized medical services to area residents, SOUTHCOM officials said.

"We want to extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Peru and the families affected by this tragic earthquake,"
Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis, commander of U.S. Southern Command, said. "Any time there is disaster of this magnitude, there is dramatic increase in the medical needs of those communities affected. As a partner nation and close friend of Peru, we stand ready to assist with those resources and capabilities at our disposal."

A
U.S. Air Force C-130 from 156th Airlift Wing, based in Puerto Rico, will airlift the surgical team to Peru.

U.S. Southern Command military planners continue to work with interagency partners and Peruvian counterparts to assess recovery needs in the affected areas and identify additional U.S. military units that may be able to provide assistance, officials said.

JTF Bravo, the only U.S. Southern Command component with permanently assigned U.S. military personnel, is a first responder to crises in the region and routinely conducts humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, search-and-rescue, personnel-recovery and non-combatant medical evacuation operations.

(From a U.S. Southern Command news release.)

Law Enforcement Technology

Editor's Note: Many of the technologies reviewed in these articles are cross-over technologies from the military to law enforcement, or law enforcement to the military.

NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary
Thursday, August 16, 2007

"Iris Scan Boosts Jail Security"
Fort Collins Coloradoan (08/10/07) P. 3A; Reed, Sara

The Larimer County, Colo., Detection Center is now utilizing iris scanning to increase prison security and improve efficiency. Employing a handheld scanner, deputies at the facility scan the irises of everybody who is booked into the prison on top of fingerprint and photographing them. "One of the strong reasons we bought into the system is that someone might pose as someone else at release," explained Lt. Pat McCosh. He recalled how a prisoner was set for release but a different prisoner who had a similar name was set free instead. The scanner captures a black-and-white photo of the individual's eye, digitizes it, and stores it for later comparison. Irises do not change over time, are as individual as fingerprints, and the scan is not impacted by glasses or contacts. Money paid by people booked into the prison financed the $88,000 system, McCosh stressed. He added that the scans are not connected to any personal data besides a name and a file number. http://www.coloradoan.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070810/NEWS01/708100342/1002

"Crime-Tipping Technology Updated"
Contra Costa Times (CA) (08/08/07); Gokhman, Roman

When a passer-by saw a man attempting to kidnap his girlfriend, he used his cell phone to videotape the crime in action and shot an image of the vehicle's license plate number.
Law enforcement have noticed the accessibility of the public to assist police with such witness-supplied evidence, so some agencies have created ways for the public to submit and post footage on the Web to assist with arresting criminals. Yet some say the initiative is a matter of credibility, as in the case of individuals holding grudges and falsifying information. The Pismo Beach Police Department has launched the "E-Tip" program, where the public can email video footage to an address monitored by emergency dispatchers. Police Chief Joe Cortex says the department wanted "to get more timely crime-tip info" so the initiative was instated. He added that at first there was apprehension about receiving prank tips, but he noted such instances have not been an issue. Knox County sheriff's communications specialist Drew Reeves says the program has been successful at his department, and although the evidence does not supplant the work of officers, it is an effective tool for assisting with crime solving. http://www.contracostatimes.com/alamedacounty/ci_6571801

"Jones Studies Cameras in Use at Virginia Beach"
Charleston Daily Mail (WV) (08/09/07) P. 4C; Pettit, Zack

Charleston, W.Va. Mayor Danny Jones and other city
leaders recently traveled to Virginia Beach to see how that city has benefited from the use of surveillance cameras. According to Charlie Meyer, the chief operating officer for Virginia Beach, there is not as much hard facts and figures as there is anecdotal evidence that surveillance cameras deter crime. He that he could not say that any one factor affected crime rates in Virginia Beach. Nonetheless, Meyer said he is a big supporter of using surveillance cameras because they can monitor more effectively than an officer on patrol and because they can gather evidence. Virginia Beach's emphasis on improving street lighting also seems to have helped deter crime and has prevented the cameras from being ineffective, Meyer said. Jones noted that Charleston needed to improve lighting as well. He added that Charleston's camera initiative would not likely get underway until next year, after officials obtain and learn to use the ca! meras and resolve public concerns about invasion of privacy. http://www.dailymail.com/story/News/2007080968/Mayor-and-police-chief-have-eye-opening-trip-to-check-out-surveillance-cameras/

"Grant Will Aid Care of Copters"
Sacramento Bee (CA) (08/09/07) P. G1; Sanchez, Edgar

The Department of Justice has granted $475,880 to the Sacramento City Council to improve the city's two
police helicopters. Aire One and Aire Two will receive night-vision goggles, infrared cameras, and a thermal-imaging camera that will assist law enforcement in spotting individuals from the craft during the night. Sgt. Mike Hutchins says that the new model infrared camera will be especially beneficial because it has a low-light color capability that makes seeing suspects considerably easier at night. The camera will take high-definition photographs of an individual that exhibits the color of the clothing the suspect is wearing; pilots can then relay the information to officers on the ground. Additionally, the cameras' infrared features will thwart attempts from suspects to resort to hiding places such as the bushes or garbage cans, because the camera's technology will capture a glow around the suspect. Lt. Sylvia Moir said the cameras will also be able to assist in searching for missing persons, while the technology can be used by weather specialists in the winter to detect trouble spots in the case of flooding. The federal funding will also pay for replacement main rotor blades for Air One and a reconstructed engine for Air Two. http://www.sacbee.com/city/story/312943.html

"Courthouse Security Upgrades Near Completion"
Kokomo Tribune (IN) (08/08/07); de la Bastide, Ken

Howard County, Ind., authorities have scheduled a tentative date of Aug. 20 to install increased security measures at the courthouse. County authorities had earlier hoped the improved security initiatives would be enacted by April 20, 2007. The county got $30,000 from the state Department of Homeland Security to buy equipment and has spent another $110,000 for additional security improvements and a pair of security officers. Although courthouse staff will have access to the facility's west door, other county workers and public members will be mandated to come in through the east door. Extra cameras costing $44,000 were ordered for the building after a recent failed break-in. Any individual breaching Howard County's security regulations, which include a weapons ban, could be fined as much as $2,500.
Law enforcement officers who are off-duty will be mandated to keep their weapons in the security office. A frequent-visitor pass will be given to attorneys and other individuals who have regular courthouse business. http://www.kokomotribune.com/local/local_story_220220537.html

"Houston OKs High-Tech Tracking of Probationers"
Macon Telegraph (GA) (08/08/07); Crenshaw, Wayne

On Aug. 7, the Houston County Board of Commissioners voted to use new
technology to monitor people on court probation. The board voted to alter the agreement with Sentinel, its probation firm, to permit for tracking of certain probationers utilizing GPS technology and alcohol-tracking bracelets. Sentinel had formerly been contracted to follow as many as 50 probationers with electronic ankle brackets and phone checks. Every day, data from the bracelets is downloaded over the phone, and it would inform probation officers whether an individual had violated probation. County administrator Steve Engle explained that the advantage of using GPS technology is that it would permit officers to monitor the location of a probationer at any time. He added that the sheriff's department asked for the new service mostly to monitor child molesters. The alcohol-tracking gadgets would be employed for DUI violators and other people mandated by the court to not drink alcohol. The devices, attached to the wrist, detect alcohol consumption through sweat, and would instantly inform the individual's probation officer if alcohol is discovered. http://www.macon.com/197/v-print/story/107254.html

"Homeland Security Tests Strobe-like 'Puke-Ray' to Safely Subdue Suspects"
USA Today (08/08/07) P. 1A; Hall, Mimi; Moreno, Eric

The Department of Homeland Security has invested $1 million for testing of the LED (light-emitting diode) Incapacitator that would blind any individual staring into the beam of light. The tool could be used to abet authorities in their capture of a criminal or to handle belligerent airline passengers. The light will be tested at Pennsylvania State University's Institute of Non-Lethal Defense Technologies this fall, and if the technology receives the green light, the incapacitator could be in the hands of law enforcement by 2010. Program manager Gerald Kirwin says the device would also be used by air marshals, border patrol agents, and other Transportation Security Administration officials. Intelligent Optical, the company that is developing the beam, says the effect of the LED induces "a real disorientation [ranging] from vertigo to nausea" or as the online publication The Registrar deems it, the "puke-ray." Although Intelligent Optical President Bob Lieberman says the device is undergoing medically supervised tests, human rights groups say they are concerned the LED would be used on illegal immigrants. Other issues include the potential for the lights being sold on the black market if they get into the hand of criminals, or whether
law enforcement would have to wear protective gear to prevent the devices from being used against them. http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/news/20070808/1a_bottomstrip08.art.htm

"Police Arrest Intruders Near Fallen Bridge, Boost Security"
CNN.com (08/09/07)

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is taking over the responsibility of providing security at the site of the collapsed Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis, which authorities consider a death-scene investigation site. Security is being increased after
Minneapolis police announced that they arrested 16 people for trespassing at the site and interfering with the investigation. Stressing the need to "maintain the honor and the dignity" of the site where five people died and eight people are still missing, Minneapolis police announced that they are deploying security technology at the site, including surveillance cameras and motion detectors. The technology will notify police if intruders are detected. http://edition.cnn.com/2007/US/08/08/bridge.collapse/index.html
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"City Council Proposes Split of 911 Center"
Dallas Morning News (08/09/07); Eiserer, Tanya

The Dallas City Council last week received a proposal from City Manager Mary Suhm that aims to overhaul the city's troubled call center. The call center has been beset with a number of problems recently, including incomplete and sometimes incorrect information being passed from call-takers to police and understaffed overworked operators struggling to keep up with the large volume of calls.
Police have also been dispatched to nonpolice matters, such as a fallen tree in a roadway. Under Suhm's plan, the emergency 911 operation and the nonemergency operations--such as 311 service calls--will be split into two next fiscal year. Suhm's plan also provides money for four new supervisors for 311 and six new 911 operators. But according to Dallas Police Chief David Kunkle, the problems at the call center cannot be corrected until 911 operations are moved from the Fire Department's control to the Police Department's control--something Suhm's plan does not call for. However, Suhm said the city is probably going to move 911 operations back to the police department after the center has been split between 911 and 311, and after a new dispatch system gets off the ground this month. http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews
/stories/080907dnmet911.36262a3.html

"New Crime Lab Planned for Triad"
High Point Enterprise (08/11/07); Kimbrough, Pat

Earlier in August,
North Carolina legislators sanctioned money to help form the Piedmont Triad Regional Crime Laboratory. The $567,911 will be employed to lease space and hire new employees for a State Bureau of Investigation lab that will facilitate forensic crime-scene evidence study for law enforcement groups in the area. The new lab would mean investigators would not have to depend as much on state labs in Raleigh and Western North Carolina, where it can take weeks or months to analyze evidence. Triad sheriffs have tentatively consented to offer federal forfeiture money from their various agencies to the lab to assist with start-up and operating expenses. Though a location has not been selected, Guilford County Sheriff B.J. Barnes reported that Greensboro is a likely setting and that the tentative scheduled opening date is April 2008. The new lab will offer drug chemistry and toxicology study, latent evidence analysis, and computer forensics, although it will not provide DNA study. Barnes noted that although local police agencies were contacted about the new facility, it will mostly be a function of area sheriff's offices. http://www.hpe.com/

"Dispatchers Face Challenges in Tracking Emergency Calls"
Houston Chronicle (08/09/07) P. 9; Stauffer, Kimberly

Emergency dispatch workers in Montgomery County,
Texas, are working to alter the way they accept and deal with emergency calls. Nearly 60 percent of 911 calls are made from cell phones, which means they are often dropped or contain static, and if callers cannot provide dispatchers with an address and other data, finding them can be difficult. A deal between cell-phone companies and the FCC mandates wireless carriers to provide location data and technology. Montgomery County Sheriff's Department executive director Bob Gunter notes that with the carriers' aid, emergency dispatchers can find a person around 80 percent of the time. He notes, however, that a large part of the technology's bill is footed by law enforcement. Within the next few years, the sheriff's department will start installing new technology permitting the public to call emergency services from any location. Gunter states that the National Emergency Number Association is working will all cell-phone providers in the creation of next-generation technology--namely, IP-based Internet-style technology. For example, he says, if somebody sees a shooting and employs a cell phone or camera to take a picture of the event, he or she can upload and send it to dispatch and call 911. http://www.chron.com/

"Officials Laud Unmanned Weapons, See Challenges"
ABC News (08/07/07); Shalal-Esa, Andrea

Speaking during AUVSI's Unmanned Systems North America 2007 conference in Washington, D.C., Lt. Gen. Donald Hoffman said the
U.S. military sees increasing value in the use of unmanned planes, boats, and ground vehicles. "I see this as an explosive arena," Hoffman said, noting that unmanned, high-altitude surveillance planes like the Global Hawk have a number of advantages over their human-operated counterparts. Not only can unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) stay in the air for up to 24 hours, they also have potential applications in the area of "near space," which is unreachable by manned planes. Other UAVs include the Reaper, a faster, deadlier version of the Predator that is capable of flying twice as high. UAVs are not without their drawbacks; however, plans are already in the works to overcome concerns about their fueling and the bandwidth needed to operate the UAVs. The Navy plans to further develop its use of unmanned aircraft with a $2 billion contract this fall for maritime surveillance. In addition, the Navy has outfitted the Littoral Combat Ship with the equipment necessary to control unmanned boats. http://www.abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=3456951

"Taser Gets Personal"
East Valley Tribune (AZ) (08/07/07); Hogan, Shanna

The latest Taser model is more stylish and less expensive than prior models. The Taser C2 Personal Protector is lightweight and comes in an array of new colors and sizes, including metallic pink, titanium silver, electric blue and black pearl. Like older models, the C2 delivers 50,000 volts of electricity, leaving an attacker incapacitated for up to 30 seconds. But Taser representatives hope the new colors and compact size of the C2 will attract a wider range of consumers, including women. "For the last seven years, we've been making
law enforcement our No. 1 priority," says Taser International Chairman Tom Smith. "Everything we did looked like a firearm, felt like a firearm, it was very aggressive. People didn't want that 'Dirty Harry' look." Still, Smith adds that "some law enforcement officials" have misgivings about increasing the accessibility of Tasers to civilians. http://www.eastvalleytribun! e.com/

"Teens Help Clovis Police Get a New Set of Robot Eyes"
Fresno Bee (CA) (08/07/07) P. B1; Benjamin, Marc

The Clovis
Police Department recruited a couple of high school students to build a remote-controlled surveillance device. The device features a camera to allow SWAT to see inside their target with a closed-circuit camera. "It can be the eyes in there first and then the commanders and chiefs can make a tactical decision without risking a body," explains officer Dave Grotto, who recruited his 18-year-old nephew and his friend to build the remote-controlled device. The robot the teens built runs on tank treads and is outfitted with a camera on a scissor lift that can turn 360 degrees. Scenes captured by the camera are relayed to a five-inch television monitor affixed to the remote control. The camera can operate for two hours before needing to be recharged. http://www.fresnobee.com/263/story/105826.html

"Digital Age Gives Police an Edge in Identifying Victims"
Beaumont Enterprise (08/06/07); Myers, Ryan

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Child Victim Identification Program, which was begun five years ago, employs facial recognition to compare digital pictures in what could be the biggest collection of child pornography in the world. Local, state, and
law enforcement groups, as well as law enforcement agencies from other countries, have donated images to the program. Since 2002, 8.6 million image files have been downloaded, helping locate 1,100 child victims. The program's most important function is locating children whose images are given for the first time. If a child has not been witnessed previously in the program, he or she could be a present abuse visit. Law enforcement is devising new ways to investigate individuals found with child pornography. The most significant change in recent years has been cooperation between various law enforcement organizations via the Child Victim Identification Program, claims program manager Jennifer Lee. http://www.southeasttexaslive.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18667104&BRD=2287&PAG=461&dept_id=512588&rfi=6

"Upkeep of Security Devices a Burden"
Washington Post (08/13/07) P. A1; Sheridan, Mary Beth

Emergency preparedness officials across the country say they are facing mounting costs related to the upkeep and maintenance of security equipment they purchased via homeland security grants since the Sept. 11
terrorist attacks. Local officials believe they will be forced to spend a significant percentage of any future homeland grants on maintaining the equipment they have now, instead of purchasing new equipment. In many cash-strapped jurisdictions, expensive equipment is gathering dust because the equipment costs too much to maintain. For example, the FBI used a $25 million grant in 2003 to equip about 400 state and local bomb squads with a $12,000 high-tech bomb kit. The wireless laptop-based bomb kits allow U.S. bomb squads to communicate and share data about weapons of mass destruction and other explosives, and the kits even come with digital cameras that allow bomb squad members to take photos of suspicious devices, send the photos to the FBI, and get immediate advice. The initial $25 million grant included a prepaid wireless card and three-year service agreement, but once the prepaid subscriptions ran out, the local squads were forced to foot the bill. As a result, many bomb squads across the country have stopped using the devices. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/12/AR2007081201244.html?hpid=topnews

"Robotic Insect Takes Off for the First Time"
Technology Review (07/19/07); Ross, Rachel

Harvard University researchers have created a life-size robotic fly that could one day be used as spies or to detect harmful chemicals. The robotic fly weighs only 60 grams, has a wingspan of three centimeters, and has its movements modeled after those of a real fly. The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is funding the research on the robotic fly, which still has a significant amount of work left to be done, in the hope that it will lead to stealth surveillance robots. Recreating a fly's efficient movements in a robot about the same size was difficult because existing manufacturing processes do not make the sturdy, lightweight parts necessary. The research team developed its own fabrication process, using laser micro-machining to cut thin sheet of carbon fiber and polymers into two-dimensional patters. After more than seven years of working and improving parts, the robotic fly finally flew this spring. The robot still needs significant work, as it is currently held on a tether that keeps it moving in a straight, upward direction. The researchers are working on a flight controller so the robot can fly as instructed. The fly is also currently connected to a external power source, so an onboard power source needs to be developed. Leader of the robotic fly project Robert Wood said a scaled-down lithium-polymer batter would provide less than five minutes of flight time. Tiny sensors and software routines need to be developed and integrated as well so the fly can detect dangerous conditions and be able to avoid flying into obstacles. http://www.technologyreview.com/Infotech/19068/

"Ground Vehicles a Larger Presence at Unmanned Vehicle Exhibition"
Defense News (08/06/07); Osborn, Kris

There were more unmanned ground systems at this year's Unmanned Systems North America exhibition show--which was held by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland--than in years past, according to exhibitors and
military officials. "In previous years, there were few unmanned ground vehicles at this show," said iRobot co-founder Helen Greiner. "This year, about one-third are ground." One of those robots was the 9-foot, 3,500-pound Mobile Detection Assessment Response System (MDARS), a security-guard robot from General Dynamics Robotics Systems (GDRS) that is capable of walking a beat without human control, avoiding both fixed and moving obstacles and detecting intruders up to 300 meters away. According to a Defense Department official with the Physical Security Action Group, MDARS would be the Army's first land-based semi-autonomous robot. GDRS is currently negotiating a $70 million deal t! o provide the Army with 24 to 30 robots, said Brian Frederick, manger of the MDARS program at GDRS. http://defensenews.com/story.php?F=2951265&C=america

'Biggest Losers' Strut Their Slimmer Stuff

By Elaine Wilson
Special to American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - After a lifelong struggle with her weight, it took just six months for a
military spouse and mother of five to lose 27 pounds and gain a hefty new title -- Fort Sam Houston's Biggest Loser. Sunshine Jeane is the winner of "The Biggest Loser," a six-month-long weight loss and healthy eating competition that started as a friendly interoffice challenge and grew into a postwide event with 33 participants.

"I was shocked," Jeane said about her big win. "Everyone else who participated looks so amazing; I never imagined I would be the Biggest Loser."

The program started small-scale in January, when a group of co-workers in Building 124 decided to cut back after the holidays. They jokingly decided to pattern their competition after the NBC series "The Biggest Loser." Word spread, interest grew and, in a collaborative effort with the Jimmy Brought Fitness Center and fitness trainer Cathleen Burrell, 33 people from around post signed up March 2 to embark on a quest for a healthier lifestyle.

Program participants followed their own diet and exercise plan, but traded triumphs and personal challenges at weekly weigh-ins at the Jimmy Brought. They also gathered several times for nutrition and fitness sessions, led by
Army Capt. Renee Cole and Burrell, during which losers learned about portion size, the pitfalls of dieting, and effective ways to burn calories. Burrell, who became the Biggest Loser fitness consultant, tracked results through the weigh-ins as well as initial, mid-term and final tape tests to measure body-fat levels.

"It was amazing to sit back and watch the progress," said Burrell, who selected the top three winners based on a combination of pounds, measurements and body fat lost. "The losers made an incredible decision to lead a healthy lifestyle. They should all be very proud."

Each week, the losers shrank, not just in size, but in number. The 33 original participants dwindled throughout the months, and only 12 stuck it out to the end.

But the diminished numbers didn't stand in the way of a triumphant outcome. The top 10 alone have lost 58.37 points of body fat and 160.2 pounds. At the program's start in March, Biggest Loser Jeane weighed 213.6 pounds and is now a much more svelte 186.4.

Despite having five children under age 12 -- the youngest is 6 months old -- Jeane managed to squeeze in five workouts a week at the gym and avoid her normal diet pitfalls, in particular, chocolate. "The best compliment I got was when my 11-year-old returned after a summer trip and said I looked skinny," she said. "The hard work, the hours spent away from my family at the gym, were worth it at that moment.

"But I'm not done," she added. "I still have 50 more pounds to go to reach my pre-pregnancy weight of 136."

Jeane is well on her way, as are the other participants. The runner-up, Phyllis Bergen, lost 36.1 pounds and reduced her body fat by 7.74 points.

"I feel great. I can walk up flights of stairs now, and my blood pressure is much lower," said Bergen, who dropped three dress sizes. "This has been an awesome experience. Even if I hadn't placed, I'd still feel like a winner. I feel better about myself and my lifestyle."

Bergen's co-workers, who rooted her on at the announcement ceremony, also are impressed. "I was watching and supporting her," said co-worker Cindy Champagne. "It's absolutely amazing to see the difference."

Bergen said she lost the weight by cutting back on starchy foods and sweets, as well as breaking a sweat four times a week at the gym.

The support of friends, family and fellow losers seemed to have just as much of an impact for the losers as the treadmill miles clocked.

"I found some great workout partners through the program," Jeane said. "And it helped to just have people to talk to who were going through the same thing. Every time we met at the gym, everyone was so encouraging; I always left with new resolve."

Third-place loser Olivia Mendoza said she drew her motivation from her workout partners and a fit fiancé who encouraged her to work out.

"Having a buddy system works," said Mendoza, who dropped 19 pounds and 22 percent of her body fat. "Start by working out with a friend, neighbor or co-worker, and go to the gym or walk during lunch."

Husband-wife loser team David and Jacqueline Fairclough, drew strength from each other. "It helps to have support," Jacqueline said. Combined, the couple lost 16 pounds. "My husband used to bring ice cream home when I was trying to lose weight. But this time we committed to doing the program together. I bought French fries the other day, and he took them away from me. This process has made us more aware of each other and our feelings."

Some losers lost just a few pounds, and others lost dozens, but all seem to share the same dedication to continuing a healthier lifestyle.

"I'm not going to stop being healthy just because the program is over," Jeane said. "I'm getting ready to give away my 'fat' clothes. I never want to go back to the way I looked before."

"I'm even more committed to losing weight than I was before," Mendoza said. "I look better, feel better and can't wait to continue on with this journey."

Jimmy Brought fitness director Lucian Kimble said he's seen a transformation in the losers. "They have a motivational look, an excitement about the results they were seeing. They walk with more confidence now, like they were proud to be involved in a great program."

Aside from appearances, the losers have given themselves the best gift of all -- a healthier life, Burrell said.

"That means a longer time on this Earth, the capability to pick up your grandkids, the ability to take a walk with your loved ones, ride a bike; the benefits go on and on. To sum it up, you can enjoy your time on Earth more than you ever have before."

(Elaine Wilson works in the Fort Sam Houston Public Information Office.)

Military Support Continues in Minneapolis Bridge Recovery Operations

American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - Defense Department forces assisting with search-and-recovery operations at the site of the I-35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis are continuing their efforts around the clock. The westbound span of the Interstate 35 bridge across the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis collapsed Aug. 1 during the evening rush hour. Eleven people are confirmed killed, and two more still are missing. Divers are continuing to search for remains in the river beneath the rubble.

Recovery operations are ongoing as
U.S. Navy divers conduct rigging operations with onsite contractors, U.S. Northern Command officials said. The contractors, hired by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, are using heavy equipment to cut through the debris, which will provide access to remaining vehicles. The divers continue to assess their best access points to remaining vehicles as debris is removed, officials said.

"Recovery operations will continue as part of a larger team effort, with safety being a paramount concern during debris removal and dive operations," said
Army Col. Michael Chesney, the defense coordinating officer and on-scene commander for Defense Department assets involved in the recovery efforts. "We are here to help and provide support to the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office as long as we are requested."

Chesney said he is impressed with the spirit of cooperation among agencies participating in the recovery operations.

"As I observe the (
Navy) divers working in partnership with the contractors removing debris, it demonstrates the joint effort being put forth by everyone as we continue 24/7 recovery operations," he said.

Defense Department assets assisting in this effort include a Defense Coordinating Element augmented with personnel from
U.S. Army North, at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Navy divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2, from Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Va. They have been in Minneapolis since Aug. 6, at the request of the U.S. Department of Transportation and in support of the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.

(From a U.S. Northern Command news release.)

Why We Serve: Afghans, Iraqis Appreciate Troops' Efforts, NCO Says

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 17, 2007 - Most Afghans and Iraqis appreciate the efforts of U.S. troops deployed in their countries because they know the servicemembers are helping them obtain a better future, a veteran
Army noncommissioned officer said. "They're glad to see you. You know you've made a difference and an impact," Army Sgt. Daniel Alvarado, 36, said of the attitudes of Afghans and Iraqis he met during back-to-back tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Alvarado is one of eight servicemembers who have served in Iraq, Afghanistan or the Horn of Africa who have been selected to speak to American community groups and businesses across the nation as part of the Defense Department's "Why We Serve" public-outreach program.

"I love it. It's absolutely great," Alvarado said of the Why We Serve program. Some citizens seem misinformed about life in today's
U.S. military, he said. For example, some people believe most soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan are billeted outside and sleep on the ground.

"They were under the impression that a lot of soldiers were living in the dirt and that living conditions were terrible," Alvarado observed. Rather, he said, most soldiers live in tents that are air-conditioned or heated, as appropriate.

To back up his assertion that Afghan and Iraqi citizens appreciate U.S. troops' efforts, the Vineland, N.J., native cited his most-recent overseas service last year in Afghanistan, when his unit was warmly welcomed back by a group of Afghans whose village had been harassed by the Taliban after the Americans departed on another mission.

Alvarado said his unit got word of the villagers' plight and returned to take care of the Taliban.

The Afghans "were so happy and glad to see us, because they'd been afraid to go outside their own little village," Alvarado, an engineering equipment mechanic, said.

Alvarado said he believes U.S. troops must confront terrorists operating in Afghanistan and Iraq to thwart them from attacking the United States again.

"We're needed there. The moment we decide to pack up and go, we're going to be chasing this thing again, if not this year, then the following year," he asserted.

Alvarado joined the Army in 1995 after graduating from high school. Today, the veteran mechanic can repair a variety of
military equipment, including bulldozers, earth scrapers, graders and even Abrams tanks, he said. However, he now wants to put his Spanish-language proficiency to use as an intelligence analyst.

"I want to do something fresh and challenging," said Alvarado, who is of Puerto Rican descent.

Being a soldier is personally rewarding and unlike any other occupation, Alvarado said.

"I stay, because I feel I'm making a difference," he said.

Multinational Corps Iraq Tops Retention Goal Six Weeks Early

American Forces Press Service

Aug. 16, 2007 - Multinational Corps Iraq met its command retention goals yesterday, more than six weeks ahead of schedule. "We've actually exceeded the goals," said
Army Master Sgt. Connie Davis, the command's career counselor. Traditional categories for re-enlistment are initial (first re-enlistment), mid-careerist and careerist soldiers.

"Meeting and exceeding re-enlistment goals is a powerful message about the commitment of today's force and how our soldiers feel about the Army and their mission," said Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, Multinational Corps Iraq commander. "When soldiers re-enlist, I consider it a vote to stay with the family, the
Army family. These are incredible men and women who understand the importance of their service and know they are making a difference. I'm proud to be a member of their family."

The overall goal for the command's retention counselors was for 16,510 soldiers to re-enlist by Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year. As of yesterday, the command had re-enlisted 18,721 soldiers,
Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Gardner, a Multinational Corps Iraq career counselor, said.

Though the total figures already were over goal, counselors could not say they had met retention goals until they had 5,945 mid-career re-enlistments. Figures as of yesterday put the mid-career re-enlistments at 5,958.

Officials cited many reasons for the high retention levels.

"The involvement of commanders at every level helps," Gardner said.

Davis added that if soldiers feel like they belong with their unit and their chain of command has their well-being and interests at heart -- not only as a soldier, but also as a person -- they are more inclined to remain in the
Army.

Enhanced re-enlistment bonuses helped, but "money may not have been the deciding factor in every case," Davis said. "I think it could have been one of the last pros that helped."

"Soldiers who believe in their fellow soldiers, their leaders and the Army for themselves and their families re-enlist," Odierno said. "Even in the most complex and difficult combat operations in Iraq, their confidence and pride in their mission and each other are compelling factors in their decision to continue service."

(From a Multinational Corps Iraq news release.)

Pace Receives Korean Award, Thanks U.S. Servicemembers

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 16, 2007 - Marine Gen. Peter Pace returned "home" today and received Korea's highest award for foreigners for his tireless efforts to promote security on the peninsula. Korean President Roh Moo-hyun presented Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with the Order of National Security Merit Tongil Medal during a ceremony at the Blue House, the president's executive office and official residence, this afternoon.

The president presented the award for Pace's work in "promoting
military cooperation between the Republic of Korea and the United States of America," according to the award citation. "His valuable dedication and service have earned him the appreciation and admiration of the Korean people."

Pace and his family lived in Seoul when the then-lieutenant colonel served on the staff of U.S. Forces Korea and 8th
Army. "I served here in 1986-1988," Pace said during a town hall meeting at Yongsan. "I have come to really love this country and the Korean people and appreciate very much their friendship and hospitality. It's good to be home."

Before the ceremony at the Blue House, Pace met with Korean National Defense Minister Kim Jang-soo and Korean
army Gen. Kim Kwan-jin, Pace's counterpart. U.S. Forces Korea Commander Army Gen. Burwell B. Bell also met with the chairman and accompanied Pace to the various meetings.

Pace took advantage of the opportunity to speak at town hall meetings with U.S. servicemembers at Yongsan and at Osan Air Base.

At both town hall meetings, Pace thanked American servicemembers for their service. "What you are doing with your lives over here is what many, many Americans have done for decades -- teamed up with our Republic of Korea friends and with our (Korean augmentees to the
U.S. Army)," he said. "You are part of the reason that Korea is strong and free and will remain so."

Pace also spoke of the upcoming transition of responsibility for the defense of the nation to South Korean control. The Republic of Korea
military will assume operational control on April 17, 2012.

"Whether they are in the lead or we are in the lead, we are going to be together," Pace said. "We are going to be available to our friends for as long as they want us to be available to help provide security to this country."

During the town hall meetings, U.S. servicemembers asked Pace to explain the Korean government's negotiating with the Taliban for the release of 20 Koreans kidnapped in Afghanistan. The chairman said South Korea is a sovereign nation and will do what it deems to be in its national interest.

He also said that the Taliban is a
terrorist organization that hopes to gain power by sowing fear. "If they are successful, they will go out and do the deed over and over," he said. "So as nations think of how to deal with the Taliban or other terrorist organizations, it is not only the instant problem of how many are captive today, but how you resolve today's problem so you don't create more problems tomorrow and the day after."

He said the United States needs to support South Korea "and ask how we can help, and if we have advice and it's asked for, give it to them in private so they can digest it and make their own decisions."

A Marine asked Pace why the United States still maintained the detention center at Guantanamo Bay Naval Station, Cuba. "The
U.S. military would like nothing better than to close Guantanamo," the chairman said. But he added that officials have not figured out how to close the facility in a way that is safe and does not release terrorists to further threaten the United Sates and its allies.

One option is to send the detainees back to their nations, but many nations do not want them back, Pace said.

"We have a judicial problem," he said. "We have not figured out as a nation how to close down Guantanamo and properly deal with the enemy combatants who have told us that as soon as they are set free they want to turn around and (try to) kill us again."

The general noted that the
Justice Department and Congress are working to devise a solution.

He also looked back on 40 years of service as he prepares to retire Oct. 1 and noted that he is somewhat saddened about the prospect.

"But I am also immensely proud and confident," he said. "I am proud of what each of you is doing and continues to do for our nation. And I am absolutely confident that we will prevail against all enemies as long as we have great young men and women in the United States and Korea who volunteer to defend our nations."

Counter-Terrorism/Medical Disaster Preparedness: A Pro-Active Approach

Saturday, SEPTEMBER 29, 2007
8:30 am - 4:30 pm
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Campus Center

The mission of this symposium is to educate the public on counter-
terrorist prevention strategies and disaster response; this symposium will have a particular emphasis on response resources, looking at real scenarios run in a major medical center environment.
The latest in a series of seminars hosted by the NJ
Marine Corps Reserve Association/ Military Order of the Purple Heart focusing on different aspects of terrorist prevention and disaster response.

More Information
http://www.criminaljustice-online.com/forum1/852.html

Young People Should Find Ways to Serve, Pace Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 16, 2007 - Whether it's through
military service or another means, young Americans should find some way to serve their country, the U.S. military's top officer said here today. "I do believe that each of us who has had the blessing of the accident of birth of being born in a free country ought to find some way to repay our country," Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said during a town hall meeting at Collier Field House here.

"If we have a system that allowed people to join the Peace Corps or allowed people to do good work inside the United States where it's needed, or join the
military," it would help the country.

Young people should give a year or two of their lives to making society better, and U.S. leaders should take such a commitment seriously, Pace said. "We would be a much stronger society, and we would be giving back to the world what we should be giving back," he said.

The general also put to rest rumors about a possible
U.S. military draft. "Nobody in any leadership position is having any serious discussion about a draft," he said.

Conventional Forces Must Remain Strong, Pace Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 16, 2007 - The continued importance of conventional forces and the growth in importance of unconventional forces will dominate American
military thinking over the next few years, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told servicemembers here today. Still, anyone who thinks they can predict with any certainty the military situation in 20 months or 20 years has "a lot of hubris," Marine Gen. Peter Pace said to about 1,000 Air Force and Army servicemembers at the Black Cat hangar here.

In response to a question from a pilot, Pace said the shape of the joint military of the future will be based on a number of assessments.

Countries in the world that might seek to equal or surpass U.S. military prowess "need to understand that we are going to protect our vital interests," Pace said. "Therefore, we must maintain the best
Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard in the world."

The United States must apply the right amount and mix of resources to ensure the U.S.
military is head and shoulders above any other military. This is "so anybody who makes a mistake and challenges us doesn't get away with it, and anybody who is thinking about spending the kind of resources it would take to become our peer would think twice about spending those resources and still coming out second-best," Pace said.

But superiority breeds new challenges. Potential enemies realize that no country can approach the United States in traditional
military prowess, he said. Nor can any country challenge the United States in the quality of its personnel. "If they want to come against us, they have to come against us asymmetrically," Pace said.

Pace said the Quadrennial Defense Review, the basis for allocating defense resources, recommended more special operations forces, precise intelligence resources and quick reaction forces to further develop the country's asymmetrical strength.

Asymmetric trouble spots include North Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Indonesia, Pakistan, Venezuela, Colombia, North Africa, the Philippines and the Middle East, Pace said.

"If you say you want to do something about problems that arise in those areas in 72 to 96 hours, then you look at the machines you have," he said. "You know how far you can reach in that time. (With that information,) you know the hubs where you need to operate from.

"Then you either need agreements with host nations so you can operate from those hubs or you need to build different machines," the chairman said.

In the
war on terror, the United States needs better intelligence, which means better relationships with nations around the world. The United States needs to share intelligence with those countries to get the information needed, the chairman said.

"We need a whole new approach to how we operate against our enemies inside of countries with whom we're not at war," Pace said.

Even more basic is an agreement about what the threat really is, he said. There's a great discrepancy among nations about what threat terrorism plays, Pace noted.

"We see it based on what happened to us on 9-11," he said. "Others see it differently, and we need to sit down with our friends and discuss why we see it differently and need to look for ways to cooperate."

The bottom line is the United States "absolutely, positively" must maintain the strongest conventional force on the planet, but the country also must be prepared to meet an asymmetric enemy, "or else we will not prevail the way we need to."

Army Releases Suicide Data, Promotes Prevention Programs

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 16, 2007 - Though its number of suicides increased in 2006, the
Army's suicide rate still is lower than the rate for the same age and gender group in the overall U.S. population, according to a report the service released today. The Army Suicide Event Report, which tracks suicide attempts and completions and the factors involved, showed that in 2006 there were 99 suicides within the Army, 30 of which occurred in Iraq or Afghanistan. This is an increase from 87 suicides in 2005 and 67 in 2004.

According to the report, the
Army's suicide rate for 2006 was 17.3 suicides per 100,000 soldiers. This compares to the overall U.S. population rate, for the same age and gender group, of roughly 19 suicides per 100,000 people.

"The loss of any member of the Army family is a tragedy, and the Army has made prevention of suicide a top priority," Army Col. Dennis W. Dingle, director of the Army's Human Resources Policy Directorate, told reporters at a media roundtable today. Dingle noted that the number of confirmed suicides in the Army has been rising since 2003, and leaders are emphasizing suicide prevention and education programs to counter that trend.

"Our message to you today is that the
Army recognizes this issue and is taking deliberate steps to mitigate those risks that may contribute to suicidal behavior," Dingle said. "Our prevention efforts do help our soldiers and their families deal with the challenges they face every day."

A majority of suicides in 2006 involved firearms, the report says, and the most common contributing factors were failed personal relationships and occupational, legal and financial problems. The report did not find a direct relationship between increased deployments and suicides, Dingle said.

Army officials do recognize that increased deployments put strain on soldiers and on their relationships, so deployment frequency and length was closely examined in this report, Army Col. Elspeth C. Ritchie, behavioral health psychiatry consultant to the U.S. Army surgeon general, said at the roundtable. While the data has not shown a correlation between those factors and suicides, other studies, such as the Mental Health Assessment Team, have found that longer and more frequent deployments have increased the rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression, she said.

"We have not yet seen an increase in suicides in multiple deployers or those who have been there longer; we may over time," Ritchie said. "We're certainly looking for that and certainly wanting to do everything we can if we do see that as an issue to mitigate any of those factors there. ... The senior Army
leadership is paying very, very close attention to these issues."

This report is one of many ways the Army is working to gather information and improve its suicide prevention and
training, Ritchie said. The Army is focused not only on preventing suicide, but also on increasing awareness about mental health issues and decreasing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, she said.

In mid-July, the Army began a new
training program for post-traumatic stress disorder, brain injuries and stress. This training will be given to every soldier -- active-duty, National Guard and Army Reserve -- within 90 days, Ritchie said. The Army also is taking the data gathered in this report and others and integrating it into their suicide prevention and training program, she said. For example, the Army's suicide prevention has historically focused on young men, but lessons learned recently have caused them to expand the program to focus on women and older men as well.

The Army also is working on hiring 250 more mental health professionals, and all the Army's medical personnel are being trained in recognizing
post-traumatic stress disorder, brain injuries and suicide risk, Ritchie said. In addition, the Army is instituting programs to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, she said.

"We need to make sure that all our soldiers know that it's OK to come in and get help, and we're there to offer it for you," Ritchie said. "I think it is very important for everybody to recognize how difficult a completed suicide is on the soldier's family, on the soldier's unit, on the friends, on the whole system, and the pain and hurt of a suicide lasts for years."

It's difficult to know how effective a suicide prevention program is, Dingle said. However,
Army leaders have taken a great deal of feedback from soldiers in the field about what solutions would work for them, and have integrated it into their training programs, he said.

"We continue to adapt the program to get to training and awareness training and intervention techniques that will help our soldiers deal with those stressors that could ultimately lead to suicide," he said.

The feedback from the new
training programs has been positive, Ritchie said. She said she has taught some classes herself and has been surprised at how willing soldiers are to open up and talk about their experiences. The Army will be able to track the effectiveness of the programs by monitoring the increase in referrals to behavioral health services, she said. The first data collection for this evaluation will be around Sept. 1.