Thursday, July 01, 2010

Hamramba School Opens in Moroni, Comoros Islands

By Engineering Aide 2nd Class Gregg Morris, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7 Public Affairs

MORONI, Comoros Islands (NNS) -- Seabees assigned to Detail Comoros completed construction of the Hamramba School in Moroni, Comoros, June 24, the first major Seabee construction project in the Comoros Islands.

Seabees worked countless days in 120-plus degree heat indexes to ensure the successful completion of the Hamramba School, a humanitarian project that is sure to have a lasting impact for decades to come.

"This was an outstanding team effort and partnership with the local military and government of Comoros," said Chief Builder Hippolito Quiles, mission commander for Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 Detachment Horn of Africa project in the Comoros Islands.

"The teamwork and hard work to make this project a success was truly impressive."

NMCB 7 was tasked with the completion of two 300-square meter concrete masonry unit (CMU) block school buildings with three separate classrooms each. In addition, the Seabees were tasked with constructing a 25-square meter male and female latrine facility to include associated electrical and plumbing finish work. The entire project began four NMCB deployments ago, with NMCB 7 completing the final 15 percent.

The capital city of Moroni, located on the Grande Comore Island, is the largest city in the Comoros Islands and is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical rain forest climate.

Being a smaller self sufficient island, the typical construction methods that Seabees regularly use were not available to the detachment.

"Working on a project with numerous challenges, as well as the prevalent language barrier between us and the local military assisting, provided a level of difficulty that many of the young Seabees here have never dealt with," said Quiles.

Upon arriving at the site, Seabees immediately went to work, occasionally using methods that even more experienced Seabees have never used. For instance, concrete batch plants were nonexistent; instead the Seabees mixed all their concrete by hand. Even equipment such as pump trucks, vehicles used to assist in more difficult concrete pours, were not an option.

After hand-mixing their concrete, the crew had to use two-gallon buckets and wheel barrels to transfer the material to the actual area of placement.

"This was the toughest project that I have encountered since joining the battalion" said Equipment Operator Constructionman Thomas Welker. The austere location of the project provided many of the crew a chance to learn all facets of construction techniques. Steelworkers mixed concrete, mechanics were operating the equipment they typically fix, and electricians were placing finishing work. This display of camaraderie helped the Seabees complete the project on time.

The Hamramba School was officially completed May 12, 2010. A ceremony, to commemorate the school completion, was held on site. In attendance were Comorian President Ahmed Abdallan Mohamed Sambi and Rear Adm. Brian Losey, commander of Combined Task Force-Horn of Africa. Many city residents attended the ceremony, including a local school choir that sang the Comorian national anthem. Local government officials, Niels Marquadt, U.S. ambassador to the Comoros and Madagascar, and Losey delivered speeches during the ceremony.

In his speech, Marquadt thanked the Seabees for their work and the legacy they will leave behind.

"This school is certainly a privileged place for the education of our children," Sambi said.

Music played and people cheered as the Sambi toured the completed buildings for final approval.

NMCB 7 and its detachments are currently deployed to various locations throughout Europe and Africa as part of the battalion's regularly scheduled 2010 deployment, with the main body of the battalion operating from Camp Mitchell at Naval Station Rota, Spain.

NCMB 7 is homeported at the Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, Miss., home of the Atlantic Fleet Seabees, and is currently a Battle "E" Seabee battalion.

Labor Department Awards $5 Million to Aid Homeless Veterans

By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 30, 2010 - The Labor Department is awarding more than $5 million in grants to help homeless female veterans and veterans with families find jobs and work toward a "bright future," the secretary of labor announced today.

"Millions of hard-working, responsible families are at risk of losing their homes as a result of job losses, reductions in working hours and lower wages," Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis said during a teleconference. "And probably no other segment of our population is more vulnerable to homelessness than our veterans, and more recently and importantly, female veterans."

The Labor Department will distribute the money – funded through the department's Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program -- to 26 organizations in 14 states and the District of Columbia to boost job placement services, job training and counseling, and supportive services such as literacy and skills training, Solis explained.

"These grants will help veterans access the resources they need to find good jobs and build a bright future for themselves and their families," Solis said.

According to the Veterans Affairs Department, on any given night there are about 107,000 homeless veterans, of whom 5,000 are estimated to be homeless female veterans and about 1,300 are homeless veterans with families, she said.

Solis said she feels strongly about helping female veterans, particularly those returning from combat. "We know many of them have been exposed to trauma [or] post-traumatic stress," she said. "Some have experienced sexual assault."

Some female veterans may have enlisted right out of high school and, as a result, are lacking formal training in the work force, she said. Solis also pointed out the importance of affordable housing and providing female veterans with the treatment and support they need.

"We're hoping that our programs, through these efforts, will help to provide at least a good effort to begin to address this very important issue," she said.

Along with the grants, the Labor Department also is involved in a number of other efforts that will increase job opportunities and support for homeless veterans, Solis said, especially for veterans returning from active-duty service and veterans with disabilities or in permanent supportive housing.

Solis said she's requested more than $35 million in the fiscal 2010 budget to help veterans and $41.3 million for 2011.

"On the battlefields of war, our veterans pledge to leave no one behind," she said. "Today we're doing our part to make sure that our veterans come home -- that we do not leave them behind."

Nimitz Air Department Hits the Deck Running

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Patton, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

July 1, 2010 - SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Air Department Sailors conducted flight deck drills during a scheduled fast cruise June 28.

Sailors engaged in a variety of scenarios including setting up an aircraft barricade and fighting a simulated aircraft fire.

"The drills were a success," said Lt. Randy Stroman, Nimitz flight deck officer. "Considering we recently had a 40 percent turnover of our personnel, the evolutions went great."

One of the challenges the training team faced when dealing with an influx of new people was breaking any bad habits they may have brought with them, said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class (AW/SW) Christopher Greene, Air Department leading petty officer.

"What they know when they get here is basic stuff," said Greene. "What we're teaching them is advanced, so we have to correct anything that isn't right, because out here mistakes can get you or someone else hurt. With a few more drills and a little more experience under their belts, they'll be right where we need them to be. After that, we'll just keep pushing."

Nimitz is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 11. Nimitz returned home to San Diego March 26 after completing a successful eight-month Western Pacific deployment.

Head of Naval Training Visits the Security Forces Training

By Yeoman Seaman Steven Cooney, Center for Security Forces Public Affairs

SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- The commander of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) visited the Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC), Lackland Air Force Base, Texas to observe firsthand the training and conditioning of Navy master-at-arms (MA) students June 22.

Rear Adm. Joseph F. Kilkenny, NETC, visited one of the Navy's largest "A" schools based in San Antonio. "I believe an important part of being in command is getting out into the field and seeing what it is we do," said Kilkenny.

For nearly a decade, the MA rating has grown significantly in both personnel and assigned mission areas making it one of the Navy's largest growth industries in the post 9/11 era.

As the Navy's force protection experts, master-at-arms personnel are trained to provide specialized security and force protection services at naval stations, and aboard ships. Among other skills, Sailors learn pier sentry and harbor security, tactical communications and movements, and apprehension, search and seizure and the appropriate use of force. Through the work of the training staff and instructors, the fleet's MA force builds the skills required to protect and defend their commands.

During the visit, the admiral observed students being trained in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and first aid. He also took time to speak with students engaged in the Web-based portion of the course citing that the combination of technology and hands-on training was, "No doubt the wave of the future."

Kilkenny then held admiral's call in the gym where he took questions from staff and students and presented command coins to the training center's Instructor of the Year, Civilian of the Year, and Sailor of the Year.

While commenting that the future of training includes simulation, Kilkenny also said, "I believe we will never be able to surpass the quality of training that comes with hands-on experience and this is what is so good about MA "A" School," Kilkenny said.

Kilkenny visited the Military Working Dog Handler School where he observed various demonstrations with dogs used for bomb detection and suspect apprehension. He also spoke with the instructors about the various breeds used in the course.

"The Navy instructors here are second to none and I believe we are providing outstanding training for the fleet's security forces," Kilkenny said.

Naval Base Guam Helps Protect Kids Through Project KidCare

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Corwin Colbert, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

HAGATNA, Guam (NNS) -- Sailors from U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) Security joined volunteers from local organizations and Guam Police Department (GPD) to protect children through Project KidCare held on Guam June 26.

The project has been held on Guam for the past 14 years and is a national child photo identification and safety education program, which provides parents with a free identification booklet with the child's photograph and vital statistics. The objective of Project KidCare is to increase awareness about the issue of missing and exploited children and to educate parents and children about the ways they can protect themselves.

This is the third year NBG Security has participated in the project. Sailors helped register children and take their height, weight measurements, and fingerprints.

Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Christopher Helmer said he and his team volunteer to support the program because they wanted to do their part in protecting all children as well as to be a part of the community.

"I think it's real important to be here; first to show our faces to the community and also to help these children get registered," Helmer said. "It's really important to protect children from crime."

Officer Anthony Quichocho from GPD has volunteered for the project for eight years.

"I am here with the U.S. Navy police and they have been very helpful," Quichocho said. "I know quite a few of these guys, so it was nice to see their faces. We are all one community and must work together to fight against crimes against children."

John Ruane, of Yigo, said he is happy that Guam is once again offering the project.

"I do this every year," Ruane said. "I am glad I get a chance to update my child's information. It's scary with all the abductions going on in the states. I want to make sure my child is safe."Quichocho estimated 300 to 500 children will sign up this year and said the project has been effective on Guam in returning abducted and lost children back home safely while also catching and locking up perpetrators.

CNRH's Federal Fire Department Partners with the City of Honolulu

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

HONOLULU (NNS) -- The commander of Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH) and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, and the mayor of the city and county of Honolulu, signed a memorandum of understanding for a mutual aid emergency medical service (EMS) June 28.

The agreement signed by Rear Adm. Dixon Smith and Mayor Mufi Hannemann was between CNRH's Federal Fire Department (FFD) and the city and county of Honolulu's EMS division at Honolulu Hale in Honolulu.

The mutual aid agreement will permit the city and CNRH's FFD to assist one another to provide coordinated and enhanced emergency care for military and civilian communities.

The agreement will also provide an opportunity for the two organizations to train together and share resources.

"I am very proud of the FFD for initiating this mutual aid agreement, and I appreciate the city of Honolulu for joining this partnership on behalf of our service members, civilians and families," said Smith. "We look forward to working with the city in continuing to provide safe, effective and efficient care."

Hannemann talked about the importance of CNRH's FFD and the city's EMS division's partnership.

"This mutual aid agreement allows the city and the Navy to support each other in providing valuable and proficient pre-hospital care to those in need," stated Hannemann. "It is partnerships like these that make it possible for the city to continually ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community."

FFD Fire Chief Glenn de Laura noted the significance of the memorandum of understanding agreement.

"The memorandum of understanding will give flexibility to a coordinated response between agencies, and it will also enhance response times while providing proper emergency medical care to both military and civilians," de Laura said.

CNRH's FFD is a multi-service organization that provides comprehensive fire and emergency services to Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard installations around the island of Oahu.

Honolulu's EMS division, provides all emergency ambulance services on the island of Oahu.

Wasp Sailors and Marines Help Welcome Queen Elizabeth II to Canada

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Christopher Koons, USS Wasp Public Affairs

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia (NNS) -- Service members from several nations, including a group of Sailors and Marines from USS Wasp (LHD 1), welcomed Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to Halifax, Nova Scotia, June 28, on the start of their nine-day tour of Canada.

Amidst a drenching downpour of rain, the Wasp service members, along with service members from Britain, Canada, Denmark, and other nations, listened as the Queen praised Canada, of which she is still officially head-of-state, for hosting the event.

"Canadians have built a nation that is widely admired throughout the world," she said. "As Queen of Canada for almost six decades now, my pride in this country remains undimmed. It feels very good to be home."

In introducing Elizabeth, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper paid tribute to the special bond between his country and Great Britain.

"This is your 22nd visit to Canada, and those of us who have seen you on your previous visits here have always cherished those moments," said Harper. "We respect the continuing role the British crown plays in the affairs of our country. To us, it represents the rule of law, freedom, citizenship, duty, and friendship."

For those Wasp Sailors who helped welcome the Queen, it was an event they will remember for the rest of their lives.

"It was pretty amazing to actually see her in person, because that's not something most people get a chance to do every day, especially if you're an American," said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Ryan Jackson.

For members of the Canadian military who helped coordinate the Queen's visit, seeing it go off without a hitch was a special delight.

"As drill chief for Canadian Forces Base Halifax, I was in charge of training the Canadian royal guard for her visit," said Chief Petty Officer Daniel Rowe of the Canadian Navy. "I helped train them in the appropriate rifle drill, foot drill, and royal protocol. By the time she arrived, they were very well prepared."

For those in the British Royal Navy who were at the Queen's welcoming ceremony, seeing their monarch in person is always a great pleasure.

"I first saw her in 2006 at the International Fleet Review in Portsmouth, England," said Chef Scott Furber of HMS Ark Royal (R07). "I like her along with the rest of the royal family, because when people think of Great Britain, they always first think of the queen."

Darrell Dexter, the premier of Nova Scotia, echoed this sentiment when he looked back upon the role the Queen and her family have played throughout the decades.

"During the darkest days of World War II, she and the royal family helped give the free world a sense of unity when it needed it the most," said Dexter. "For that, we are all forever grateful."

Wasp is currently participating in the Canadian Naval Centennial and International Fleet Review Week (CNC/IFR) that began on June 25 and concludes July 2. Wasp Sailors and Marines, including embarked Carrier Strike Group 2, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22, and 3rd Battalion 2nd Marines are participating in various cultural and sporting events during the visit aimed at strengthening relationships and the strong bilateral and multilateral ties shared between the Canadian Navy and its allies.

MCPON Sends 2010 Independence Day Message to the Fleet

Special from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following Independence Day message to the fleet June 30:

"Shipmates and Navy Families,

As we celebrate our great nation's 234th birthday, I hope that we all take time to reflect on the meaning of our independence and the sacrifices of those who have gone before us and those who continue to serve our nation.

Each and every one of you has a role in preserving the ideals the United States was founded upon. You are all patriots in defense of liberty and protectors of our independence, and I'm so very proud of you and your families for your dedication to our nation and our great Navy.

As you celebrate the Fourth of July, please keep in mind that many of our Sailors are deployed and can't be with their loved ones, but they do so in order that our fellow Americans can spend it with theirs. Currently, we have more than half of our ships and submarines underway, including five carriers and six large-deck amphibious ships, and more than 10,000 individual augmentees deployed 'boots on ground' around the world in support of overseas contingency operations.

Another item I would like for all of you to keep in mind, especially during this holiday, is safety. We must look out for our shipmates, families and friends as we take to the highways, waterways and our backyards. The Navy was successful during Memorial Day with zero fatalities, so I challenge you to keep our success rate. Use caution and practice ORM (operational risk management) when driving, participating in water activities or just conducting everyday activities. As you know many personnel will be out and about, and if you decide to drink, don't drive and have a plan to get home. Shipmates, stay safe and enjoy your much-deserved time off with your family and friends.

I'm honored to serve among you, and I'm thankful for all that you do in defense of our nation and our Navy.

Stay focused, stay alert and stay safe; happy Independence Day,

HOOYAH!"

MILITARY CONTRACTS June 30, 2010

AIR FORCE

Dell Marketing, LP, Round Rock, Texas, was awarded a $345,445,788 contract which will procure Microsoft and software assurance on perpetual licenses for Air Force and other participating organizations. At this time, $75,588,037 has been obligated. 754 ELSG/PKI, Maxwell Air Force Base Gunter Annex, Ala., is the contracting activity (FA8771-10-F-8108).

The Boeing Co., Long Beach, Calif., was awarded a $263,581,478 contract modification which will exercise fiscal 2010 fourth quarter option contract line items in the C-17 Globemaster III sustainment partnership contract. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 702 ACSG/GFKAA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004; P00530).

The Boeing Co., Integrated Defense Systems, Seattle, Wash., was awarded a $73,007,266 contract which will procure the Phase II-A production requirements for the radar system improvement program capability for the Royal Saudi Air Force AWACS fleet of five aircraft. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 551 ELSG/PKI, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity (F19628-01-D-0016; Delivery Order 0070).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems Sector, San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $30,346,614 contract modification which will provide flight test and software maintenance for the Global Hawk program. At this time, $10,000,000 has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-01-C-4600; P00346).

Wyle Laboratories, Huntsville, Ala., was awarded a $24,427,336 contract which will research, test, develop and deliver readiness analyses; program recommendations; technology innovations analyses; interoperability analyses/testing results; software/hardware validation reports; functionally enhancements summation reports; test procedures documentation; data analysis and systems/subsystem/infrastructure/prototype assessments; new system alternatives recommendations; architectural drawings; feasibility studies; digital flight analysis reports; and test plans/results. At this time, $927,573 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (HC1047-05-D-4005; Delivery Order 0146).

L-3 Communications Vertex Aerospace, Madison, Miss., was awarded an estimated $19,471,309 contract modification which will provide for an extension of the contract period of performance for contractor logistics support of the C-12 aircraft for Pacific Air Force, Air Force Material Command, Defense Intelligence Agency and Defense Security Cooperation Agency. At this time, $300,000 has been obligated. 727 ASCG/PKC, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., is the contracting activity (F34601-00-C-0111; P00607).

Honeywell International, Inc., Defense & Space Electronic Systems, Clearwater, Fla., was awarded a $16,356,958 contract modification which will provide 203 embedded GPS inertial navigation systems for the Army CH47F and AH-64D platforms. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 647 AESS/PK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8626-06-C-2065; P00149).

Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $15,000,000 contract modification which will increase the consolidated logistics advisory and assistance services contract which provides contractor personnel resources to the Space and Missile Systems Center Logistics Group and related space organizations. At this time, no money has been obligated. Det. 8, Air Force Research Laboratory/RDKB, Directed Energy Contracts Division, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the contracting activity (FA9451-06-2-0338; P00008).

ITT Corp., Systems Division, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., was awarded a $14,454,147 contract modification which will provide for ITT Systems to design, procure, build, install and test telemetry instrumentation at Kennedy Space Center. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. SMC/LRSW/PK, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-01-C-0001; P00650).

Raytheon Co., Marlborough, Mass., was awarded a $9,142,249 contract which will design, develop, test and demonstrate a dynamic examination and characterization of digital entities system. At this time, $3,476,385 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, N.Y., is the contracting activity (FA8750-10-C-0173).

University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, was awarded an $8,440,000 contract modification which will provide a multi-year program to develop and deploy a telescope data management system for the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System. At this time, $8,440,000 has been obligated. Det 8, Air Force Research Laboratory/RDKB, Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., is the contracting activity (FA9451-06-2-0338; P00008).

Unmanned Systems, Inc., Las Vegas, Nev., was awarded a $7,613,065 contract which will provide pilot and sensor operator services for acceptance and flight test of the Predator/Reaper program. At this time, $3,808,502 has been obligated. 703 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8620-10-C-3016).

Charles River Analytics, Cambridge, Mass., was awarded a $6,996,515 contract to design, prototype and demonstrate the effectiveness of a software system that leverages and extends concepts from biological evolution and linguistics to assess the lineage of malware attacks, characterize malware attackers, and predict properties of future attacks. At this time, $1,249,447 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, N.Y., is the contracting activity (FA8750-10-C-0171).

NAVY

Centurum Information Technology, Inc., Marlton, N.J. (N65236-10-D-5829), and L-3 Services, Inc., Mount Laurel, N.J. (N65236-10-D-5830), are each being awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee, multiple-award contract for engineering and technical support services to maintain, test, evaluate and repair fleet command, control, communication, computer, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems for surface, shore and submarine units. Each contractor will be awarded $25,000 at the time of award. These contracts include options and two award terms which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of these contracts to an estimated $182,000,000. Work will be performed in Charleston, S.C. (60 percent), and Norfolk, Va. (40 percent), and is expected to be completed by June 2011. If all options are exercised, work could continue until June 2017. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The multiple-award contracts were competitively procured by full and open competition via the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center e-Commerce Central and the Federal Business Opportunities Web sites, with four offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity.

Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc., Pascagoula, Miss., is being awarded a not-to-exceed $175,497,896 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the procurement of long-lead time material, and planning and advance engineering services in support of one landing helicopter assault replacement Flight 0 amphibious assault ship. Work will be performed in Brunswick, Ga. (24.4 percent); locations yet to be determined (24.2 percent); Pascagoula, Miss. (23.1 percent); Los Angeles, Calif. (17.3 percent); York, Penn. (9.3 percent); and Brampton, Canada (1.7 percent). Work is expected to be completed by March 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-2229).

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems Sector, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $38,300,000 not-to-exceed modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-07-C-0041) for the procurement of three low-rate initial production vertical takeoff and landing tactical unmanned aerial vehicle units. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed in October 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

DynCorp International, LLC, Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded $36,100,580 under a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N62742-08-C-1115) to exercise the third option period to provide support services for Philippines operations support in the Republic of the Philippines for the Joint Special Operations Task Force Philippines. The work to be performed provides for all labor, supervision, management, tools, materials, equipment, facilities, transportation, incidental engineering and other items necessary to provide support services. The current total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $174,656,041. Work will be performed in the Republic of the Philippines, and expected completion date for this option period is June 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity.

Johns Hopkins University, Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Md., is being awarded a $25,737,703 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to develop technology enablers that will provide spinal cord injury patients with the ability to cortically control advanced dexterous prostheses while experiencing tactile and proprioceptive feedback through cortical electrical stimulation initiated by the prosthetic limbs. This three-year contract includes two options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to a potential $34,513,672. Work will be performed in Laurel, Md., and is expected to be completed June 29, 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with one offer received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-C-4056).

Integrated Systems Solutions, Inc.*, California, Md., is being awarded a $20,922,809 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Advanced Airship Flying Laboratory. The contractor will be performing air vehicle sensor demonstrations and flight tests to investigate and evaluate improvements in the operational efficiency of unique air vehicles as sensor platforms for persistent surveillance/command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The overall goal is to develop, determine and understand distinctive airborne sensor integration and verify the effectiveness and efficiency of the platforms related to the installed sensor and communication packages. Work will be performed in Lakehurst, N.J. (40 percent); Patuxent River, Md. (30 percent); Yuma, Ariz. (20 percent); and California, Md. (10 percent). Work is expected to be completed in June 2015. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Broad Agency Announcemen and 41 offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-10-C-0280).

Bulltrack - Watts, JV*, Marysville, Calif., is being awarded $19,026,000 for firm-fixed price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple-award construction contract (N40192-10-D-2801) for design and construction of the repair, sustainment, restoration and modernization of the waterfront facilities at Sumay Cove, Naval Base Guam. The project elements include seawalls, marina facilities, boat ramps, piers, and shoreline stabilization. Work will be performed in Santa Rita, Guam, and is expected to be completed by February 2012. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Marianas, Guam, is the contracting activity.

W. F. MaGann Corp., Portsmouth, Va., is being awarded a $17,785,692 firm-fixed-price contract to replace Caisson Dry Dock 8 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. The work to be performed provides for replacement of the Caisson 8 structure that will consist of fabricating a new caisson of steel construction to fit the existing caisson seat at Dry Dock 8, which include new seals, pumps and valves, as well as providing new capstans. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, Va., and is expected to be completed by December 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online Web site, with two proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N40085-10-C-3034).

Sauer, Inc., East Jacksonville, Fla., is being awarded $15,777,700 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 under previously awarded contract (N40080-10-D-0490) for design and construction of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense facility expansion at Naval Support Facility, Dahlgren. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va., and is expected to be completed by June 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Five proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Pittsfield, Mass., is being awarded an $11,513,453 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6246) for additional engineering and technical services for the AN/BYG-1 weapon control system for SSN21, Virginia, and SSN688/688I class submarines. Work will be performed in Pittsfield, Mass., and is expected to be completed by June 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Engility Corp., Billerica, Mass. is being awarded a $10,143,919 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the procurement of labor for the combined explosives exploitation cell (CEXC) expansion. This action fulfills the joint urgent operational needs requirement of forward deployed lab specialists with highly technical skill sets to the CEXC. Work will be performed in Afghanistan (99 percent) and Maryland (1 percent), and is expected to be completed June 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $1,583,334 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, Md., is the contracting activity (N00174-10-C-0042).

BAE Systems, Land & Armaments, LP, U.S. Combat Systems, Minneapolis, Minn., is being awarded a $9,148,728 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5317) for fiscal 2009 canister production requirements for MK25 canisters to support integration of Evolved Seasparrow missiles into the MK 41 vertical launching system. The canisters provide rocket motor exhaust gas containment and a launch rail during missile firing. They also serve as missile shipping and storage containers. Work will be performed in Aberdeen, S.D. (80 percent); Odessa, Mo. (10 percent); and Minneapolis, Minn. (10 percent); and is expected to be completed by February 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Burns & Roe Services Corp., Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded an $8,519,411 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N62470-06-D-4614) to exercise Option 4 for utilities and maintenance services at U.S. Naval Base, Guantanamo Bay. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, the managerial, supervision, labor, engineering services, tools, materials, equipment and transportation necessary for the utilities systems operation and maintenance, including: seawater desalinization; potable water treatment, storage, and distribution; water quality testing and control; electrical power production and distribution; cathodic protection systems operation and maintenance; airfield lighting systems maintenance and repair; maintenance and repair of street, recreational, perimeter, and security lighting; operation and maintenance of satellite boilers, air compressors, incinerators, swimming pools; and miscellaneous other mechanical equipment. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $50,504,175. Work will be performed at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and is expected to be completed by June 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering and Acquisition Division, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Co., Falls Church, Va., is being awarded a $7,769,679 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee, cost-plus-incentive-fee contract (N00019-98-C-0190) to provide additional software development in support of the tactical control system, Block 2 Version 4 software product requirements. Work will be performed in Falls Church, Va. (82 percent); Dahlgren, Va. (10 percent); and San Pedro Calif. (8 percent); and is expected to be completed in November 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Thoma-Sea Ship Builders, LLC, Lockport, La., was awarded a $7,286,175 firm-fixed-price contract on June 29 for the construction and delivery of a hydrographic survey vessel and associated equipment and services for the Royal Navy of Oman under the Foreign Military Sales program. Work will be performed in Lockport, La., and is expected to be completed by June 2011. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with seven offers received. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.

ViaSat, Inc., Carlsbad, Calif., is being awarded a $5,754,000 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price contract for technical services and equipment in support of tactical data link systems and satellite communication systems. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to an estimated $29,999,500. This contract combines purchases for the Navy (75 percent), and the government of the Republic of Turkey (25 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales program. Work will be performed in Carlsbad, Calif., and is expected to be completed by June 2011. If all options are exercised, work could continue until June 2015. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, Charleston, S.C., is the contracting activity (N65236-10-D-5105).

S.B. Ballard Construction Co, Virginia Beach, Va., is being awarded $5,751,202 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N40085-09-D-5019) for renovations to Building W-5 at Naval Station Norfolk. The work to be performed pertains to Building W-5 which was constructed in the 1920s as a two-story storage facility with a third story added years later. This project will renovate the existing three-story facility and provide three-story additions on the front and rear of the existing building. The interior of the existing building will be totally demolished. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va., and is expected to be completed by December 2011. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.

MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co., Sunnyvale, Calif., is being awarded a $66,995,612 sole-source, cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to previously awarded contract (HQ0147-07-C-0196) to perform obsolescence mitigation efforts for terminal high air altitude defense batteries three and four, including completion of ongoing fiscal 2009 obsolescence efforts, as well as additional obsolescence mitigation required to support fiscal 2010 battery procurement. Efforts will also include qualification of identified replacement components and required software updates to accommodate new components; as well as providing a test environment and accomplishing regression testing for the changes to the system. Work will be performed in Sunnyvale, Calif., with a performance period from June 2010 through March 2011. Fiscal 2010 procurement funds will be utilized to obligate $27,779,376 for this effort. The Missile Defense Agency is the contracting activity.

USS Constitution Participates in Boston Navy Week

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Frank E. Neely, USS Constitution Public Affairs

CHARLESTOWN, Mass. (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to USS Constitution kicked off their participation in Boston Navy Week June 30-July 5.

Sailors will participate in community relations projects and other public activities and events that highlight "Old Ironsides'" history and mission today.

Additionally, Sailors will be performing boarding pike and gun drills pier-side to the ship throughout Navy Week. The drills will simulate to visitors how Sailors prepared and fought in battle at sea during the age of sail.

"Constitution allows our visitors to explore the beginnings of our Navy as well as interact with modern Sailors," said Cmdr. Timothy M. Cooper, 71st in command of Constitution. "This unique blend of past and present cannot be found anywhere else in our service."

Boston Navy Week is also being held in conjunction with Boston Harborfest. Harborfest is a six-day Fourth of July festival that showcases the colonial and maritime heritage of Boston.

Constitution's color guard performed at the opening ceremony of Harborfest at Faneuil Hall Marketplace with Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Gary Roughead in attendance.

"We look forward to being a part of this week," said Roughead. "I think it will be a great opportunity for the citizens of Boston to meet our Sailors."

After the opening ceremony, Constitution Sailors also participated in a Caps for Kids visit at Boston Medical Center. They offered words of encouragement and 18 caps to children dealing with long-term or lifelong health issues.

Additionally, Constitution will host the annual Sunset Parade, July 2. The parade celebrates the connection between Constitution's representation of naval heritage and New England's patriotic heritage.

"It's going to be a busy week for us of course, but when you do events like Caps for Kids, you understand why this week is so important," said Fireman Esteban Quintero of Constitution. "We're not only educating people about our ship, which we do every day, but we're letting them know we're also about helping people."

Finally, Constitution will wrap up Boston Navy Week by getting underway the morning of Independence Day. During the underway, Sailors will exchange a 21-gun salute with Fort Independence on Castle Island. Fort Independence is a state park that served as a defense post for Boston Harbor at one time.

"I may be biased, but I can't think of a finer way to conclude Boston Navy Week," said Cooper. "Constitution's long and distinguished service in defense of our nation is exemplified by everything that the Fourth of July represents."

Later that evening, Constitution's color guard will also perform in the Boston Pops July 4th concert.

This is the third Navy Week Constitution will participate in this year. They performed similar activities during Des Moines Navy Week, April 19-24 and Spokane Navy Week, May 10-15.

USS Hawes (FFG 53) and USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) are also participating in Boston Navy Week. Boston Navy Week is one of 20 Navy Weeks planned across America in 2010. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy, and to increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.

Constitution is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston. She is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year.