By Kristen Noel
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - No injuries to marine mammals have been attributed to sonar use since the Navy began taking additional steps to minimize harm to such animals, a Navy official said yesterday. "Right now, the Navy employs 29 mitigation measures to assure that we don't hurt marine mammals when we're out doing our sonar exercises," Navy Rear Adm. Lawrence S. Rice, director of Naval Operations Environmental Readiness, said in a conference call with online journalists and "bloggers."
Navy officials said the 29 additional measures were put into place in January.
Rice acknowledged there's legitimate concern over sonar causing marine mammals to "beach." However, the ability to detect enemy submarines is essential to national security, and active sonar is the only existing technology capable of tracking modern diesel-electric and fuel-cell submarines, he said.
"Imagine if al Qaeda got their hands on a submarine and started sinking tankers exiting the Persian Gulf, where about 14 million barrels of oil leave every day, what that would do to the world's economy," he said.
To combat negative effects on sea life, the Navy funds research by universities and nonprofit organizations into how sonar affects marine life. Over the past couple of years, the Navy spent between $10 million and $14 million on research annually, Rice said.
"We fund about 50 percent of marine mammal research worldwide," he said.
Statistically, the number of marine-mammal "strandings" --beached whales, for example -- due to sonar is extremely low compared to those caused by nature and the commercial fishing industry. Sonar was implicated in 50 strandings over 10 years, Rice said.
This averages out at a rate of five sonar-related strandings per year, vs. an average of 3,600 standings per year due to natural causes and about 600,000 per year linked to the commercial fishing industry, he explained.
"The numbers are still single-digit numbers of marine mammals stranding per year attributed to sonar," he said.
Despite the low numbers, the Navy is expanding its marine mammal program and will increase its funding of independent institutions' research to $18 million annually over the next five years, Rice said.
The research focuses on the locations and abundance of marine mammals, physiological and behavioral effects of sonar, and protective tools the Navy can use to manage its impact, he explained.
Also, the Navy has taken action through NATO to extend worldwide its 29 mitigation measures that have reduced incidence of sonar injury to mammals to zero. "We gave those (29 mitigation measures) to NATO, and there's a move to incorporate those in the NATO planning document," Rice said.
(Kristen Noel works for the New Media branch of American Forces Information Service.)
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Congressional Action Could Delay Furloughs, But Full War Funding Still Needed
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - It's too soon to start celebrating the Senate's action yesterday to add $70 billion for Iraq war funding to the omnibus spending bill, the Pentagon press secretary told reporters today. The action, which needs approval by the House and President Bush, could delay the need for the Defense Department to furlough civilian employees, but still won't provide full war funding, Geoff Morrell said.
"Clearly, we are encouraged by some of the signs we have seeing on the Hill, a recognition that our needs are serious, are great, and our troops need to be funded as they are in war," Morrell said during a Pentagon news briefing. "So we very much appreciate the efforts being made, and we are encouraged by the progress that has been made."
Passage "would at least, for the time being, eliminate the need to go down the road of furloughing anybody," he said. "But that's an 'if' at this point."
Morrell was quick to point out that "nothing is done yet" and that DoD must "continue to plan for life with no money."
"Until such time as this is a done deal, I think everybody in this building is proceeding with the very real business of preparing for the eventuality of running out of money," he said.
Even with passage of the funding, the measure still falls short of what's needed to fund the global war on terror completely, he said.
It would be "merely a temporary solution to our larger problem of gaining full funding for the global war on terror," he said. "We will gladly take whatever bridge funding comes our way, ... but we will also continue to pursue full funding for our war efforts."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - It's too soon to start celebrating the Senate's action yesterday to add $70 billion for Iraq war funding to the omnibus spending bill, the Pentagon press secretary told reporters today. The action, which needs approval by the House and President Bush, could delay the need for the Defense Department to furlough civilian employees, but still won't provide full war funding, Geoff Morrell said.
"Clearly, we are encouraged by some of the signs we have seeing on the Hill, a recognition that our needs are serious, are great, and our troops need to be funded as they are in war," Morrell said during a Pentagon news briefing. "So we very much appreciate the efforts being made, and we are encouraged by the progress that has been made."
Passage "would at least, for the time being, eliminate the need to go down the road of furloughing anybody," he said. "But that's an 'if' at this point."
Morrell was quick to point out that "nothing is done yet" and that DoD must "continue to plan for life with no money."
"Until such time as this is a done deal, I think everybody in this building is proceeding with the very real business of preparing for the eventuality of running out of money," he said.
Even with passage of the funding, the measure still falls short of what's needed to fund the global war on terror completely, he said.
It would be "merely a temporary solution to our larger problem of gaining full funding for the global war on terror," he said. "We will gladly take whatever bridge funding comes our way, ... but we will also continue to pursue full funding for our war efforts."
MRAP Deliveries to Top Year-End Goal
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - The Defense Department is expected to top its year-end goal of delivering 1,500 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to Iraq as soon as tomorrow, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters today. Morrell's announcement came as DoD announced the award of just under $2.66 billion to purchase an additional 3,126 of the heavily armored, V-hulled vehicles by July 31.
The latest MRAP contract, announced yesterday, will bring to 11,900 the number of vehicles under contract. "Our objective is to build at least 15,374," Morrell said.
Morrell said it's unlikely that the Marine Corps' recent decision to reduce its MRAP requirement from 3,600 to 2,300 will affect the Army's MRAP request or the overall joint requirement. The number actually could increase as the Army evaluates its needs, and as commanders in Afghanistan express an interest in getting more MRAPs, he said.
"Commanders in Afghanistan are of the mind that they would like more there than originally requested," Morrell said. "Their inclination at this point is that we may want to up the number in Afghanistan.
"These armored trucks... have been the military's top acquisition priority for months now, and with good reason," Morrell said. "They have proven to be true lifesavers for our warfighters in Iraq and Afghanistan."
As of Dec. 17, 1,300 MRAPs were in the theater, Morrell reported. Another 180 are en route by sea aboard USNS Pililaau, a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship operated by Military Sealift Command that left Charleston, S.C., Dec. 13. In addition, another 15 MRAPs are in the air headed to Iraq.
These vehicles will bring the number of MRAPs delivered to 1,525, exceeding the department's year-end goal. "Everything has proceeded on schedule," Morrell said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - The Defense Department is expected to top its year-end goal of delivering 1,500 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles to Iraq as soon as tomorrow, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters today. Morrell's announcement came as DoD announced the award of just under $2.66 billion to purchase an additional 3,126 of the heavily armored, V-hulled vehicles by July 31.
The latest MRAP contract, announced yesterday, will bring to 11,900 the number of vehicles under contract. "Our objective is to build at least 15,374," Morrell said.
Morrell said it's unlikely that the Marine Corps' recent decision to reduce its MRAP requirement from 3,600 to 2,300 will affect the Army's MRAP request or the overall joint requirement. The number actually could increase as the Army evaluates its needs, and as commanders in Afghanistan express an interest in getting more MRAPs, he said.
"Commanders in Afghanistan are of the mind that they would like more there than originally requested," Morrell said. "Their inclination at this point is that we may want to up the number in Afghanistan.
"These armored trucks... have been the military's top acquisition priority for months now, and with good reason," Morrell said. "They have proven to be true lifesavers for our warfighters in Iraq and Afghanistan."
As of Dec. 17, 1,300 MRAPs were in the theater, Morrell reported. Another 180 are en route by sea aboard USNS Pililaau, a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship operated by Military Sealift Command that left Charleston, S.C., Dec. 13. In addition, another 15 MRAPs are in the air headed to Iraq.
These vehicles will bring the number of MRAPs delivered to 1,525, exceeding the department's year-end goal. "Everything has proceeded on schedule," Morrell said.
Army Announces Plan to Station Soldiers, Boost Bases
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - The Army's new plan for stationing its growing number of troops will affect 380,000 soldiers and family members and cost more than $66 billion in construction projects through 2013. Announced today, the plan is the largest Army transformation since World War II, and moves the force toward a "modular," or brigade-centric, posture. The Army's vice chief of staff told reporters at the Pentagon today that the design represents a holistic improvement across the entire service branch.
"We're changing the footprint of our Army to a make it more agile, more expeditionary, but also to place our formations and our family members in post camps and stations that have a higher quality of life, have a higher quality of training ranges," Army Gen. Richard A. Cody said.
Plans will be implemented as the force expands its active duty Army, Army Guard and Army Reserve by 74,200 soldiers by 2010. In accordance with a 2005 base realignment and closure analysis, the plan:
-- Stations two infantry brigade combat teams each to Fort Carson, Colo.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; and Fort Bliss, Texas.
-- Stations eight support brigades across the country, including an air defense artillery brigade at Fort Hood, Texas; a military police brigade at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; a maneuver enhancement brigade at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo; a fires brigade at Fort Bliss; an expeditionary sustainment command at Fort Lewis, Wash.; and a battlefield surveillance brigade at Fort Polk, La. A maneuver enhancement brigade will be restationed to Fort Drum, N.Y., and Fort Richardson, Alaska, pending completion of an environmental analysis.
-- Retains two heavy brigade combat teams in Germany for two years. The two extended brigades tentatively will relocate in fiscal 2012 and 2013 to Fort Bliss, and White Sands Missile Range, N.M., respectively.
The decision to extend two brigades in Europe supports the theater's near-term security needs, Cody said. It also allows time for workers to build new houses and prepare infrastructure on bases before soldiers and their families arrive.
Meanwhile, more than 740 construction projects are outlined in the plan, totaling an estimated $66.4 billion between fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2011. Projects include 20 brigade complexes, 69,000 barracks spaces, 4,100 family housing units and 66 child development centers.
"It's a win for our soldiers and their families, it's a win for our Army, and it's certainly a win for our nation," Cody said. The general noted that by improving on-base infrastructure, the Army is "truly building communities."
Cody expressed optimism at the Army's plan to grow and improve its overall force.
"It gives us a better quality of life for this all-volunteer force that has defended us so well here for six years in combat," he said. "We're getting bigger, but more importantly, we're getting better as an Army."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 19, 2007 - The Army's new plan for stationing its growing number of troops will affect 380,000 soldiers and family members and cost more than $66 billion in construction projects through 2013. Announced today, the plan is the largest Army transformation since World War II, and moves the force toward a "modular," or brigade-centric, posture. The Army's vice chief of staff told reporters at the Pentagon today that the design represents a holistic improvement across the entire service branch.
"We're changing the footprint of our Army to a make it more agile, more expeditionary, but also to place our formations and our family members in post camps and stations that have a higher quality of life, have a higher quality of training ranges," Army Gen. Richard A. Cody said.
Plans will be implemented as the force expands its active duty Army, Army Guard and Army Reserve by 74,200 soldiers by 2010. In accordance with a 2005 base realignment and closure analysis, the plan:
-- Stations two infantry brigade combat teams each to Fort Carson, Colo.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; and Fort Bliss, Texas.
-- Stations eight support brigades across the country, including an air defense artillery brigade at Fort Hood, Texas; a military police brigade at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; a maneuver enhancement brigade at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo; a fires brigade at Fort Bliss; an expeditionary sustainment command at Fort Lewis, Wash.; and a battlefield surveillance brigade at Fort Polk, La. A maneuver enhancement brigade will be restationed to Fort Drum, N.Y., and Fort Richardson, Alaska, pending completion of an environmental analysis.
-- Retains two heavy brigade combat teams in Germany for two years. The two extended brigades tentatively will relocate in fiscal 2012 and 2013 to Fort Bliss, and White Sands Missile Range, N.M., respectively.
The decision to extend two brigades in Europe supports the theater's near-term security needs, Cody said. It also allows time for workers to build new houses and prepare infrastructure on bases before soldiers and their families arrive.
Meanwhile, more than 740 construction projects are outlined in the plan, totaling an estimated $66.4 billion between fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2011. Projects include 20 brigade complexes, 69,000 barracks spaces, 4,100 family housing units and 66 child development centers.
"It's a win for our soldiers and their families, it's a win for our Army, and it's certainly a win for our nation," Cody said. The general noted that by improving on-base infrastructure, the Army is "truly building communities."
Cody expressed optimism at the Army's plan to grow and improve its overall force.
"It gives us a better quality of life for this all-volunteer force that has defended us so well here for six years in combat," he said. "We're getting bigger, but more importantly, we're getting better as an Army."
America Supports You: Red Cross to Deliver Holiday Cards to Wounded
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - This holiday season, the American Red Cross will make sure holiday greetings generically addressed to wounded servicemembers at military medical facilities around the country will find a home. With help from Pitney Bowes Government Solutions, and the support of the Defense Department and Walter Reed Army Medical Center here, the American Red Cross will collect, review and distribute holiday greeting cards to wounded military personnel.
"So many Americans want to show their support and gratitude by reaching out to wounded servicemembers at Walter Reed and other military medical centers during the holiday season," said Neal Denton, American Red Cross Senior vice president for service to the armed forces. "With the support of the Department of Defense, Walter Reed leadership and Pitney Bowes, we can bring a little cheer to these brave men and women."
For security reasons, the Red Cross will be able to accept only holiday cards – not packages. Senders also are reminded to refrain from using glitter or any other materials that would not be appropriate in a hospital environment.
Red Cross volunteers will receive and bundle the cards, which will be shipped by Pitney Bowes Government Solutions. Then, Red Cross volunteers at the medical facilities will distribute the cards throughout the holiday season.
"It is an honor to provide this small measure of comfort at holiday time to those who have sacrificed so much," said Murray Martin, Pitney Bowes president and chief executive officer. "We want to make it as easy as possible for all Americans to show their appreciation to the men and women who serve this nation so proudly and selflessly."
Holiday cards and letters should be addressed to:
We Support You During Your Recovery!
c/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD 20763-0419
Be sure to affix adequate postage. Multiple cards without envelopes may be placed in one mailing envelope or a box that includes a return address. Cards must be received no later than Dec. 27. Cards received after this date will be returned to the sender. Again, senders are reminded that "care packages" are not part of the program –– send only cards and notes.
Because a Defense Department policy in effect since 2001 specifically forbids the delivery of generically addressed mail to servicemembers, cards sent directly to military medical facilities are returned or discarded unless they're addressed to a specific servicemember by name.
(From an American Red Cross news release.)
Editor's Note: To find out about more individuals, groups and organizations that are helping support the troops, visit www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil. America Supports You directly connects military members to the support of the America people and offers a tool to the general public in their quest to find meaningful ways to support the military community.
Dec. 18, 2007 - This holiday season, the American Red Cross will make sure holiday greetings generically addressed to wounded servicemembers at military medical facilities around the country will find a home. With help from Pitney Bowes Government Solutions, and the support of the Defense Department and Walter Reed Army Medical Center here, the American Red Cross will collect, review and distribute holiday greeting cards to wounded military personnel.
"So many Americans want to show their support and gratitude by reaching out to wounded servicemembers at Walter Reed and other military medical centers during the holiday season," said Neal Denton, American Red Cross Senior vice president for service to the armed forces. "With the support of the Department of Defense, Walter Reed leadership and Pitney Bowes, we can bring a little cheer to these brave men and women."
For security reasons, the Red Cross will be able to accept only holiday cards – not packages. Senders also are reminded to refrain from using glitter or any other materials that would not be appropriate in a hospital environment.
Red Cross volunteers will receive and bundle the cards, which will be shipped by Pitney Bowes Government Solutions. Then, Red Cross volunteers at the medical facilities will distribute the cards throughout the holiday season.
"It is an honor to provide this small measure of comfort at holiday time to those who have sacrificed so much," said Murray Martin, Pitney Bowes president and chief executive officer. "We want to make it as easy as possible for all Americans to show their appreciation to the men and women who serve this nation so proudly and selflessly."
Holiday cards and letters should be addressed to:
We Support You During Your Recovery!
c/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD 20763-0419
Be sure to affix adequate postage. Multiple cards without envelopes may be placed in one mailing envelope or a box that includes a return address. Cards must be received no later than Dec. 27. Cards received after this date will be returned to the sender. Again, senders are reminded that "care packages" are not part of the program –– send only cards and notes.
Because a Defense Department policy in effect since 2001 specifically forbids the delivery of generically addressed mail to servicemembers, cards sent directly to military medical facilities are returned or discarded unless they're addressed to a specific servicemember by name.
(From an American Red Cross news release.)
Editor's Note: To find out about more individuals, groups and organizations that are helping support the troops, visit www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil. America Supports You directly connects military members to the support of the America people and offers a tool to the general public in their quest to find meaningful ways to support the military community.
America Supports You: Virginia Guard Family Gets Extreme Dream Home
By Staff Sgt. Mary Flynn, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - Army National Guard Spc. Michael Lucas received an extra-special homecoming during his mid-tour leave from Iraq recently when he and his family discovered they had been selected for a total home renovation, courtesy of the ABC reality television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." The show's premise involves combining the efforts of a team of designers and hundreds of local workers and neighbors. Together they renovate an entire home – from furniture to landscaping – for a deserving family nominated by friends and family – all within seven days.
The Lucas family consists of Michael, 37, his wife Jean, 33, and boys Michael Henry, 11, and Joseph, 6. Jean studies ancestry and genealogy research and works with a therapist for Joseph, who has autism spectrum disorder. She's currently helping to write grants to open a sensory playground facility for autistic children.
Lucas is deployed to Iraq with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry, Virginia Army National Guard. He and fellow soldiers from the 3rd Battalion trained at Camp Shelby, Miss., from June to early August, before arriving in Kuwait in late August. In early September, the unit moved into Iraq to begin its mission, which includes providing convoy security.
A lifelong history buff, Lucas had begun construction on a house near Rice, Va., on the site of the Civil War's Battle of High Ridge. But he was deployed before he could finish the home, and the family moved into a rental property in Cullen, Va.
Jean home-schools both of her children, and the nomination for the home makeover came through members of the home school cooperative where she is a member. The deployed Lucas was concerned for his family's well-being, given their somewhat remote location.
"Jean and her family are such a wonderful family," said Nancy Baker, who knows the family through their home-school group. With a husband in Iraq and an autistic child who requires so much of her time and efforts, she has a lot of obstacles to overcome on a daily basis, she added.
Enter the Extreme Makeover team. After surprising the newly reunited family with the news of their selection, they sent the Lucases off for a weeklong vacation to Disney World and went to work. Hundreds of local workers and volunteers joined host Ty Pennington and the rest of the design team in a total overhaul of the property.
National Guard soldiers were quick to lend a helping hand. About 50 soldiers volunteered their time to help build a home for a fellow soldier.
"I think this is such a wonderful opportunity for the soldiers to come out and participate in helping another soldier," said Sgt. Shaena Hall of Company B, 116th Brigade Troops Battalion, who drove more than three hours from her unit's location in Alexandria, Va., to help with the project.
Hall has never met any of the Lucas family, but she said that didn't matter. "All soldiers are family, so it's great to be able to help out a fellow soldier."
The big "reveal" of the new home came on Dec. 10, when hundreds of volunteers, soldiers, workers, neighbors and curious onlookers gathered on the property and cheered "Move that bus!" allowing the Lucas family a first glimpse of their dream home when the show staff's bus moved out of their line of sight.
"It's wonderful. It's incredible just to see all those people here and what they did this for us," said Jean.
The family also received several substantial gifts from local businesses.
"I can't say how appreciative I am of this community and how much I love these people," Spc. Lucas added. "(I appreciate) the state and the community for how much they've given me."
The Lucas family episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is tentatively scheduled to air in February or March.
(Army Staff Sgt. Mary Flynn is assigned to the National Guard Bureau.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - Army National Guard Spc. Michael Lucas received an extra-special homecoming during his mid-tour leave from Iraq recently when he and his family discovered they had been selected for a total home renovation, courtesy of the ABC reality television show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." The show's premise involves combining the efforts of a team of designers and hundreds of local workers and neighbors. Together they renovate an entire home – from furniture to landscaping – for a deserving family nominated by friends and family – all within seven days.
The Lucas family consists of Michael, 37, his wife Jean, 33, and boys Michael Henry, 11, and Joseph, 6. Jean studies ancestry and genealogy research and works with a therapist for Joseph, who has autism spectrum disorder. She's currently helping to write grants to open a sensory playground facility for autistic children.
Lucas is deployed to Iraq with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry, Virginia Army National Guard. He and fellow soldiers from the 3rd Battalion trained at Camp Shelby, Miss., from June to early August, before arriving in Kuwait in late August. In early September, the unit moved into Iraq to begin its mission, which includes providing convoy security.
A lifelong history buff, Lucas had begun construction on a house near Rice, Va., on the site of the Civil War's Battle of High Ridge. But he was deployed before he could finish the home, and the family moved into a rental property in Cullen, Va.
Jean home-schools both of her children, and the nomination for the home makeover came through members of the home school cooperative where she is a member. The deployed Lucas was concerned for his family's well-being, given their somewhat remote location.
"Jean and her family are such a wonderful family," said Nancy Baker, who knows the family through their home-school group. With a husband in Iraq and an autistic child who requires so much of her time and efforts, she has a lot of obstacles to overcome on a daily basis, she added.
Enter the Extreme Makeover team. After surprising the newly reunited family with the news of their selection, they sent the Lucases off for a weeklong vacation to Disney World and went to work. Hundreds of local workers and volunteers joined host Ty Pennington and the rest of the design team in a total overhaul of the property.
National Guard soldiers were quick to lend a helping hand. About 50 soldiers volunteered their time to help build a home for a fellow soldier.
"I think this is such a wonderful opportunity for the soldiers to come out and participate in helping another soldier," said Sgt. Shaena Hall of Company B, 116th Brigade Troops Battalion, who drove more than three hours from her unit's location in Alexandria, Va., to help with the project.
Hall has never met any of the Lucas family, but she said that didn't matter. "All soldiers are family, so it's great to be able to help out a fellow soldier."
The big "reveal" of the new home came on Dec. 10, when hundreds of volunteers, soldiers, workers, neighbors and curious onlookers gathered on the property and cheered "Move that bus!" allowing the Lucas family a first glimpse of their dream home when the show staff's bus moved out of their line of sight.
"It's wonderful. It's incredible just to see all those people here and what they did this for us," said Jean.
The family also received several substantial gifts from local businesses.
"I can't say how appreciative I am of this community and how much I love these people," Spc. Lucas added. "(I appreciate) the state and the community for how much they've given me."
The Lucas family episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is tentatively scheduled to air in February or March.
(Army Staff Sgt. Mary Flynn is assigned to the National Guard Bureau.)
Face of Defense: Personal Trainer Provides Fitness Advice
By Sgt. Laura M. Bigenho, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - A master driver assigned here with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Task Force Phantom, became a licensed personal trainer in 2001 and has been helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle ever since. To reach a healthy state, Army Staff Sgt. David Marr said, it is important to understand the aspects of fitness.
"Fitness is your body's ability to withstand use over a long period of time," the Ithaca, N.Y., native said. "Knowing the different aspects of total fitness will assist you in getting where you want to be."
Cardiovascular enhancement, muscular strength, quality nutrition, mental strength, discipline and happiness all are key aspects, Marr said. But due to their complex nature, fitness will be different for everyone. "Depending on how you were made, everything won't apply to you," he said. "Not everyone was born with the same chemical and structural set-up."
Knowing your genetic makeup and family background is key to understanding fitness, Marr said.
"People react differently to exercise. "Genetics play a key role in that reaction," he explained. "We're genetically engineered to do different things."
Marr said that explains why some of the healthiest people cannot acquire perfectly toned abdominal muscles or slim down their legs. Retired professional cyclist Lance Armstrong – now on a United Service Organizations tour with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff -- is one example. Despite having an overall healthy appearance and higher-than-average fitness level, Marr said, Armstrong lacks visible abdominal muscles that other athletes easily acquire.
"Genetic engineering really is everything, but there are things you can do to help change it," he said.
One way to start is by monitoring food intake, he said. Everything someone puts into his mouth effects the way his body appears and functions. Vitamins and minerals, he added, are two elements our bodies require to be their best.
"If you take a scientific composition of what's in dirt, your body is a direct replica of what dirt is," Marr said. "(Your body) needs the exact same minerals that come from dirt, so make sure you're focusing on your mineral as well as your vitamin intake."
In addition to watching daily mineral and vitamin intake, monitor everything else, he said. Limit but don't eliminate carbohydrates, sodium and fats. Stock up on leafy greens, lean protein and low-acid fruits.
"Look at food labels and know the serving sizes," Marr said. "Understand what you're giving your body and how it's affecting you."
Performing various exercises also is important.
"By design, your body is a lazy machine," Marr said. "Know what muscles you're working and switch it up, because your body finds shortcuts when it's doing the same thing."
Army Pfc. Jonathan Lipinski, a 355th Chemical Company chemical operations specialist, and Army Pfc. Dulce Tejeda, a generator mechanic with HHC Task Force Phantom, said they both work out regularly and try to switch up their routines each time.
"We work out as a unit five times a week," Tejeda said. The Oxnard, Calif., native's goal is to have "six-pack abs," but she's learning to accept that despite her hard work, it's possible she may never have them. "I'm learning to just accept my body for what it is," she said.
Lipinski said he maintains his fitness level by running, lifting weights and watching what he snacks on.
"Everybody wants results fast, but they're not going to come fast," said the Las Vegas native. "I try to watch what I eat, but it's hard here, because you work so hard that sometimes you just want to eat anything."
Marr said to be patient and results will come.
"Be active, have fun, watch what you eat, and over time you will see results," he said.
(Army Sgt. Laura M. Bigenho serves with the 28th Public Affairs Detachment.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - A master driver assigned here with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Task Force Phantom, became a licensed personal trainer in 2001 and has been helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle ever since. To reach a healthy state, Army Staff Sgt. David Marr said, it is important to understand the aspects of fitness.
"Fitness is your body's ability to withstand use over a long period of time," the Ithaca, N.Y., native said. "Knowing the different aspects of total fitness will assist you in getting where you want to be."
Cardiovascular enhancement, muscular strength, quality nutrition, mental strength, discipline and happiness all are key aspects, Marr said. But due to their complex nature, fitness will be different for everyone. "Depending on how you were made, everything won't apply to you," he said. "Not everyone was born with the same chemical and structural set-up."
Knowing your genetic makeup and family background is key to understanding fitness, Marr said.
"People react differently to exercise. "Genetics play a key role in that reaction," he explained. "We're genetically engineered to do different things."
Marr said that explains why some of the healthiest people cannot acquire perfectly toned abdominal muscles or slim down their legs. Retired professional cyclist Lance Armstrong – now on a United Service Organizations tour with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff -- is one example. Despite having an overall healthy appearance and higher-than-average fitness level, Marr said, Armstrong lacks visible abdominal muscles that other athletes easily acquire.
"Genetic engineering really is everything, but there are things you can do to help change it," he said.
One way to start is by monitoring food intake, he said. Everything someone puts into his mouth effects the way his body appears and functions. Vitamins and minerals, he added, are two elements our bodies require to be their best.
"If you take a scientific composition of what's in dirt, your body is a direct replica of what dirt is," Marr said. "(Your body) needs the exact same minerals that come from dirt, so make sure you're focusing on your mineral as well as your vitamin intake."
In addition to watching daily mineral and vitamin intake, monitor everything else, he said. Limit but don't eliminate carbohydrates, sodium and fats. Stock up on leafy greens, lean protein and low-acid fruits.
"Look at food labels and know the serving sizes," Marr said. "Understand what you're giving your body and how it's affecting you."
Performing various exercises also is important.
"By design, your body is a lazy machine," Marr said. "Know what muscles you're working and switch it up, because your body finds shortcuts when it's doing the same thing."
Army Pfc. Jonathan Lipinski, a 355th Chemical Company chemical operations specialist, and Army Pfc. Dulce Tejeda, a generator mechanic with HHC Task Force Phantom, said they both work out regularly and try to switch up their routines each time.
"We work out as a unit five times a week," Tejeda said. The Oxnard, Calif., native's goal is to have "six-pack abs," but she's learning to accept that despite her hard work, it's possible she may never have them. "I'm learning to just accept my body for what it is," she said.
Lipinski said he maintains his fitness level by running, lifting weights and watching what he snacks on.
"Everybody wants results fast, but they're not going to come fast," said the Las Vegas native. "I try to watch what I eat, but it's hard here, because you work so hard that sometimes you just want to eat anything."
Marr said to be patient and results will come.
"Be active, have fun, watch what you eat, and over time you will see results," he said.
(Army Sgt. Laura M. Bigenho serves with the 28th Public Affairs Detachment.)
Task Force Volunteers Deliver Food to Honduran Village
By Staff Sgt. Austin M. May, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - U.S. servicemembers from Joint Task Force Bravo took to the mountains around Soto Cano Air Base to deliver food and supplies to Hondurans living off the beaten path. About 60 volunteers joined the three-mile trek Dec. 14, sponsored by the JTF Bravo Chapel, carrying more than 600 pounds of food on their backs to a village with about 500 residents. The food was purchased with money donated through tithes at the chapel.
Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Chad Bellamy, the JTF Bravo chaplain, said the hike was unique because it was the first time servicemembers were released from duty to attend, a decision made by the JTF Bravo commander, Army Col. Marcus De Oliveira, who joined the group.
The chaplain said the hikes are a great experience for those looking to get out from "behind the wall" and get involved in the local community, adding they help people acknowledge that we all are part of humanity.
"Differing socioeconomic levels should not be a point of division as to whether or not we care for one another," Bellamy said.
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Frank Johnson said he was motivated to join the hike not only by the idea of helping others, but also by his family back home.
"I've got a family of my own," he said. "If we were ever in need, I'd like it if someone did the same thing for us."
Army Sgt. Brent Stewart loaded every available pocket of his military-issue rucksack with food and milk, saying "somebody had to carry it." Dripping with sweat and red in the face from carrying the huge load, he smiled and said it was absolutely worth it.
The hike was a way for some members of JTF Bravo to share the holiday spirit with the residents of Honduras.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Diane Strohm, who has attended previous hikes with the chapel, said this trip was special because of the time of year.
"It's an awesome experience to be able to give something to those less fortunate during the holiday season," she explained.
The trip to Capiro was the fourth hike in a series of five to local villages around Soto Cano Air Base. The final hike is scheduled for Jan. 5.
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Austin M. May serves with Joint Task Force Bravo Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - U.S. servicemembers from Joint Task Force Bravo took to the mountains around Soto Cano Air Base to deliver food and supplies to Hondurans living off the beaten path. About 60 volunteers joined the three-mile trek Dec. 14, sponsored by the JTF Bravo Chapel, carrying more than 600 pounds of food on their backs to a village with about 500 residents. The food was purchased with money donated through tithes at the chapel.
Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Chad Bellamy, the JTF Bravo chaplain, said the hike was unique because it was the first time servicemembers were released from duty to attend, a decision made by the JTF Bravo commander, Army Col. Marcus De Oliveira, who joined the group.
The chaplain said the hikes are a great experience for those looking to get out from "behind the wall" and get involved in the local community, adding they help people acknowledge that we all are part of humanity.
"Differing socioeconomic levels should not be a point of division as to whether or not we care for one another," Bellamy said.
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Frank Johnson said he was motivated to join the hike not only by the idea of helping others, but also by his family back home.
"I've got a family of my own," he said. "If we were ever in need, I'd like it if someone did the same thing for us."
Army Sgt. Brent Stewart loaded every available pocket of his military-issue rucksack with food and milk, saying "somebody had to carry it." Dripping with sweat and red in the face from carrying the huge load, he smiled and said it was absolutely worth it.
The hike was a way for some members of JTF Bravo to share the holiday spirit with the residents of Honduras.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Diane Strohm, who has attended previous hikes with the chapel, said this trip was special because of the time of year.
"It's an awesome experience to be able to give something to those less fortunate during the holiday season," she explained.
The trip to Capiro was the fourth hike in a series of five to local villages around Soto Cano Air Base. The final hike is scheduled for Jan. 5.
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Austin M. May serves with Joint Task Force Bravo Public Affairs.)
Report Reflects Future for Military's Unmanned Systems
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - A new Defense Department report reflects military needs and goals in acquiring improved unmanned systems during the decades ahead, a senior official told Pentagon reporters here today. Titled, "Unmanned Systems Roadmap: 2007-2032," the report looks at how the U.S. military should proceed in developing, acquiring and integrating air-, land- and sea-based unmanned technology over the next 25 years, Dyke Weatherington, deputy director of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Task Force, said at a news conference. The task force is within the office of the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics.
"The publication of this most-recent roadmap will further our strategic planning and our overall objective of developing, procuring and integrating unmanned systems into the force structure of the Department of Defense to support our various military mission capabilities," Weatherington explained.
The document is the result of more than 18 months of work between the department, the services and other military and government agencies, Weatherington said.
Past reports mostly focused on unmanned aircraft systems, Weatherington said, noting the new document addresses land-and maritime-operated unmanned systems, as well.
"It is the department's firm belief that the integration of all the unmanned domains – air, ground and sea – are the future of DoD integrated operations, not only from a systems perspective, but (also) from a joint-service perspective, and in many cases, a coalition perspective," Weatherington said.
Drone aircraft and ground-based robots already are proving their worth in Iraq and Afghanistan, Weatherington said. The new report discusses those successes, he said, while also pointing out additional requirements cited by combatant commanders.
Among commanders' recommendations, Weatherington noted, is the need to develop an integrated infrastructure so that information and intelligence data provided by unmanned systems can be more rapidly and readily shared among users, including allies and coalition partners.
Weatherington also said a special task force set up by Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England is studying the Army Predator and Air Force Sky Warrior unmanned aerial vehicle programs with an eye toward reducing costs, if possible.
"We're attempting to better synergize and coordinate those development and procurement activities" for the Predator and Sky Warrior programs, Weatherington explained.
Army and Air Force developmental plans for unmanned systems are to undergo executive review in the spring by John J. Young Jr., the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, Weatherington said.
The new report also reflects commanders' requirements for better sensor technology used by unmanned systems to identify underwater mines and land-based improvised explosive devices, Weatherington said.
Today, unmanned systems have proved their military worth in Afghanistan and Iraq, Weatherington pointed out. The technology has saved servicemembers' lives, he said, while improving battle space efficiency across the terrestrial, airborne and maritime realms.
Continued development of artificial intelligence (robotics) technology may one day produce autonomous, "thinking" unmanned systems that could, for example, be used in aerial platforms designed to suppress enemy air defenses, Weatherington said.
"Certainly, the roadmap projects an increasing level of autonomy," Weatherington said, adding, as "the autonomy level increases, we do believe that that will open the avenue for additional mission areas."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 18, 2007 - A new Defense Department report reflects military needs and goals in acquiring improved unmanned systems during the decades ahead, a senior official told Pentagon reporters here today. Titled, "Unmanned Systems Roadmap: 2007-2032," the report looks at how the U.S. military should proceed in developing, acquiring and integrating air-, land- and sea-based unmanned technology over the next 25 years, Dyke Weatherington, deputy director of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Task Force, said at a news conference. The task force is within the office of the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics.
"The publication of this most-recent roadmap will further our strategic planning and our overall objective of developing, procuring and integrating unmanned systems into the force structure of the Department of Defense to support our various military mission capabilities," Weatherington explained.
The document is the result of more than 18 months of work between the department, the services and other military and government agencies, Weatherington said.
Past reports mostly focused on unmanned aircraft systems, Weatherington said, noting the new document addresses land-and maritime-operated unmanned systems, as well.
"It is the department's firm belief that the integration of all the unmanned domains – air, ground and sea – are the future of DoD integrated operations, not only from a systems perspective, but (also) from a joint-service perspective, and in many cases, a coalition perspective," Weatherington said.
Drone aircraft and ground-based robots already are proving their worth in Iraq and Afghanistan, Weatherington said. The new report discusses those successes, he said, while also pointing out additional requirements cited by combatant commanders.
Among commanders' recommendations, Weatherington noted, is the need to develop an integrated infrastructure so that information and intelligence data provided by unmanned systems can be more rapidly and readily shared among users, including allies and coalition partners.
Weatherington also said a special task force set up by Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England is studying the Army Predator and Air Force Sky Warrior unmanned aerial vehicle programs with an eye toward reducing costs, if possible.
"We're attempting to better synergize and coordinate those development and procurement activities" for the Predator and Sky Warrior programs, Weatherington explained.
Army and Air Force developmental plans for unmanned systems are to undergo executive review in the spring by John J. Young Jr., the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, Weatherington said.
The new report also reflects commanders' requirements for better sensor technology used by unmanned systems to identify underwater mines and land-based improvised explosive devices, Weatherington said.
Today, unmanned systems have proved their military worth in Afghanistan and Iraq, Weatherington pointed out. The technology has saved servicemembers' lives, he said, while improving battle space efficiency across the terrestrial, airborne and maritime realms.
Continued development of artificial intelligence (robotics) technology may one day produce autonomous, "thinking" unmanned systems that could, for example, be used in aerial platforms designed to suppress enemy air defenses, Weatherington said.
"Certainly, the roadmap projects an increasing level of autonomy," Weatherington said, adding, as "the autonomy level increases, we do believe that that will open the avenue for additional mission areas."
Air Force Officer Missing In Action From Vietnam War Is Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
He is Maj. Perry H. Jefferson, U.S. Air Force, of Denver, Colo. He will be buried April 3, 2008 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.
On April 3, 1969, Jefferson was an aerial observer on board an O-1G Bird Dog aircraft on a visual reconnaissance mission over a mountainous region in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam. The pilot of the aircraft, then U.S. Army 1st Lt. Arthur G. Ecklund, radioed Phan Rang airbase to report his location, but contact was lost soon after. An extensive, three-day search and rescue effort began, but no evidence of a crash was found. Hostile threats in the area precluded further search efforts.
In 1984, a former member of the Vietnamese Air Force turned over to a U.S. official human remains that he said represented one of two U.S. pilots whose aircraft was shot down.
In 1994 a joint U.S./Socialist Republic of Vietnam (S.R.V.) team, led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), interviewed two Vietnamese citizens regarding the incident. The witnesses said the aircraft crashed on a mountainside, the pilots died and were buried at the site. They said two other men were sent to the site a few days later to bury the pilots. The team excavated the crash site described by the witnesses and found aircraft wreckage. No human remains were found.
In 2000, the remains turned over in 1984 were identified as Ecklund's.
In 2001, a Vietnamese national living in California turned over to U.S. officials human remains that he said were recovered at a site where two U.S. pilots crashed. These remains were identified in 2007 as Jefferson's.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in identifying Jefferson's remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.
He is Maj. Perry H. Jefferson, U.S. Air Force, of Denver, Colo. He will be buried April 3, 2008 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.
On April 3, 1969, Jefferson was an aerial observer on board an O-1G Bird Dog aircraft on a visual reconnaissance mission over a mountainous region in Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam. The pilot of the aircraft, then U.S. Army 1st Lt. Arthur G. Ecklund, radioed Phan Rang airbase to report his location, but contact was lost soon after. An extensive, three-day search and rescue effort began, but no evidence of a crash was found. Hostile threats in the area precluded further search efforts.
In 1984, a former member of the Vietnamese Air Force turned over to a U.S. official human remains that he said represented one of two U.S. pilots whose aircraft was shot down.
In 1994 a joint U.S./Socialist Republic of Vietnam (S.R.V.) team, led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), interviewed two Vietnamese citizens regarding the incident. The witnesses said the aircraft crashed on a mountainside, the pilots died and were buried at the site. They said two other men were sent to the site a few days later to bury the pilots. The team excavated the crash site described by the witnesses and found aircraft wreckage. No human remains were found.
In 2000, the remains turned over in 1984 were identified as Ecklund's.
In 2001, a Vietnamese national living in California turned over to U.S. officials human remains that he said were recovered at a site where two U.S. pilots crashed. These remains were identified in 2007 as Jefferson's.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in identifying Jefferson's remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.
Sexual Assault - Megan's Story
"Sexual Assault - Megan's Story," a production created for the Navy's Center for Personnel Development in Virginia Beach, VA, by the Naval Media Center in Washington, DC, won first place in the "Education" category at last month's Italian Ministry of Defense-sponsored international military production competition in Rome.
The competition is an initiative of the Italian non-profit association "Eserciti e Popoli" (Armed Forces and Peoples). It was established to recognize outstanding visual information productions created by, or on behalf of armed forces throughout the world. It is intended to build friendships, integration, cooperation, and mutual understanding among the armed forces of the participating countries, and to make known and promote the films and videos produced by those countries.
This year the competition featured 67 entries from the militaries of 24 nations, ranging from Bulgaria to China, and from Latvia to South Africa. An international panel of media producers judged the entries.
This year, as in the recent past, the competition was tough. Many nations, and especially those in Western Europe, make a considerably greater investment of intellectual and monetary capital in the creation of military films and videos than the United States typically does.
The Navy's winning 14-minute video depicts an incident of sexual assault, and the events leading up to and following the assault, from the perspectives of all involved - victim, perpetrator and shipmates.
The target audience for "Sexual Assault - Megan's Story" is all military personnel in the Navy. It's intended to be augmented by instructor-led training before and after viewing. The production is not intended for standalone presentation.
"Megan's Story" is cleared for public release and can be ordered through the Defense Visual Information website at http://dodimagery.afis.osd.mil/. Simply follow the link to the DAVIS/DITIS database and request PIN 806793.
The competition is an initiative of the Italian non-profit association "Eserciti e Popoli" (Armed Forces and Peoples). It was established to recognize outstanding visual information productions created by, or on behalf of armed forces throughout the world. It is intended to build friendships, integration, cooperation, and mutual understanding among the armed forces of the participating countries, and to make known and promote the films and videos produced by those countries.
This year the competition featured 67 entries from the militaries of 24 nations, ranging from Bulgaria to China, and from Latvia to South Africa. An international panel of media producers judged the entries.
This year, as in the recent past, the competition was tough. Many nations, and especially those in Western Europe, make a considerably greater investment of intellectual and monetary capital in the creation of military films and videos than the United States typically does.
The Navy's winning 14-minute video depicts an incident of sexual assault, and the events leading up to and following the assault, from the perspectives of all involved - victim, perpetrator and shipmates.
The target audience for "Sexual Assault - Megan's Story" is all military personnel in the Navy. It's intended to be augmented by instructor-led training before and after viewing. The production is not intended for standalone presentation.
"Megan's Story" is cleared for public release and can be ordered through the Defense Visual Information website at http://dodimagery.afis.osd.mil/. Simply follow the link to the DAVIS/DITIS database and request PIN 806793.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
