By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – A new prosthesis under development will give servicemember amputees more flexibility and help them better perform their military jobs if they choose to stay on active duty. A preview of the new technology yesterday at Walter Reed Army Medical Center drew key staff and several servicemember amputees. The open forum allowed users to see improvements in prototype form and ask developers questions or offer suggestions.
In 2006, Otto Bock HealthCare, a global provider of prosthetic components that started out providing devices for German World War I veterans in 1919, began developing a prosthetic knee system that is an upgrade to its already popular C-Leg. It was awarded a three-year $1 million contract to develop a leg that will allow more servicemembers to stay on active duty if they choose to.
The prosthesis is for above-the-knee amputees and uses a microprocessor to control the knee's hydraulic functions and anticipate the wearer's actions and make changes in real time.
This will give servicemembers greater flexibility to change speeds or directions without sacrificing stability.
The project began in 2006, and developers are through the prototype development. Barring any technical problems, the new prosthesis should be available to servicemembers in 2009.
Mobility will be improved, allowing more movement without the user having to concentrate on the knee, said Hans-Willem van Vliet, the program manager.
The new system will have more sensors, a faster hard drive, more memory, and will provide smooth transitions between movements such as level-ground walking, climbing stairs, and running.
It also will allow servicemembers the ability to turn around while walking and walk backward in one fluid movement, something that is not possible with the current C-Leg. It will adapt automatically between walking speeds and gaits, Vliet said.
He emphasized that engineers have not simply improved the C-Leg, but have completely rebuilt the technology on the inside.
Engineers also are working to stretch battery life to 50 hours on one charge. This will give servicemembers on long road marches the duration they need to reach a power supply for recharging.
Requirements also call for making the system salt-water resistant, a difficulty with the onboard computer systems. They also are planning a remote control, about the size of a car-lock remote, that will allow the user to switch among as many as 10 modes with the click of a button.
The current C-Leg allows servicemembers two operating modes: one for walking and one for bicycling or another activity. To switch between modes, the wearer has to swing the leg forward in a jerky fashion. In some instances the user may not be able to switch modes because of limited movement. Reprogramming a mode requires a visit to a technician.
Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Lourake, a pilot at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., is the first above-the-knee amputee to return to active duty as a pilot. He was fitted with a C-Leg five years ago. Lourake said he could not do his job without the C-Leg because it allows him to switch between walking and flying modes. Still, he said, he is impressed with the new design and plans to be one of the first to own one, even if he has to pay for it out of his own pocket. The current C-Leg costs about $30,000. The new system is expected to cost about the same.
"I'm excited. It has a lot of the stuff that I asked for a couple of years ago. It's huge in functionality and active living," Lourake said.
Right now, he has to reprogram his second mode from flying mode to bicycling or running. With the new leg, he won't have to make as many visits to his prosthetic technician.
"I'll have everything right in the leg, and I'll never have to touch the computer again," he said.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Program Helps Disabled Vets Get Defense Business Contracts
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – Thousands of disabled military veterans have enrolled in a governmentwide program that's designed to help them succeed in new careers as business owners, a Defense Department official said here today. The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Office was established at the Pentagon by an October 2004 presidential executive order and federal legislation that stipulates 3 percent of all annual military contracting will go to small businesses operated by service-disabled veterans, Anthony R. Martoccia, director of the office of small business programs at the Pentagon, told veterans' service organization members during a conference call today.
Military contracting officers in the field are on the lookout for disabled-veteran-owned businesses to provide services for the government, Martoccia said.
There is "a strong focus" by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and other senior officials to ensure the program is fully implemented, Martoccia noted.
More than 24,000 servicemembers have been wounded or injured on duty since the global war against terrorism began on Sept. 11, 2001, Martoccia said. Many of these veterans have had to leave the military due to disabling injury, he noted.
The SDVOSB program is geared toward helping disabled veterans establish second careers as entrepreneurs who do business with the Defense Department, Martoccia said. The program, he added, is open to disabled veterans from all the nation's wars and all branches of military service.
"There's a lot of work out there, obviously, and there's a lot of opportunity," Martoccia said. Last year, the SDVOSB program registered more than 5,000 businesses. Today, disabled-veteran-owned businesses account for more than $1 billion in government contracts.
The Pentagon is putting the word out to military contracting officers about the government-wide goal to award 3 percent of contracts to businesses owned by disabled veterans, Martoccia said.
"A lot of these companies can really get some business with the federal marketplace," he said.
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – Thousands of disabled military veterans have enrolled in a governmentwide program that's designed to help them succeed in new careers as business owners, a Defense Department official said here today. The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Office was established at the Pentagon by an October 2004 presidential executive order and federal legislation that stipulates 3 percent of all annual military contracting will go to small businesses operated by service-disabled veterans, Anthony R. Martoccia, director of the office of small business programs at the Pentagon, told veterans' service organization members during a conference call today.
Military contracting officers in the field are on the lookout for disabled-veteran-owned businesses to provide services for the government, Martoccia said.
There is "a strong focus" by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and other senior officials to ensure the program is fully implemented, Martoccia noted.
More than 24,000 servicemembers have been wounded or injured on duty since the global war against terrorism began on Sept. 11, 2001, Martoccia said. Many of these veterans have had to leave the military due to disabling injury, he noted.
The SDVOSB program is geared toward helping disabled veterans establish second careers as entrepreneurs who do business with the Defense Department, Martoccia said. The program, he added, is open to disabled veterans from all the nation's wars and all branches of military service.
"There's a lot of work out there, obviously, and there's a lot of opportunity," Martoccia said. Last year, the SDVOSB program registered more than 5,000 businesses. Today, disabled-veteran-owned businesses account for more than $1 billion in government contracts.
The Pentagon is putting the word out to military contracting officers about the government-wide goal to award 3 percent of contracts to businesses owned by disabled veterans, Martoccia said.
"A lot of these companies can really get some business with the federal marketplace," he said.
Gates Asks Congress to Transfer More Funds to MRAP Program
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates yesterday asked Congress for approval to transfer nearly $1.2 billion to the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle program to get an estimated 3,500 of the vehicles to Iraq by the year's end, defense officials announced today. The funds, to be added to almost $4 billion already programmed for MRAPs this year, will speed up the timetable for getting deployed troops the best armored vehicles possible, said John Young, director of defense research and engineering and chairman of the Defense Department's MRAP task force.
By reprogramming an additional $1.2 billion to the program, the department can sign contracts for an additional 2,650 MRAPs, Young told Pentagon reporters today. This will bring the department's total MRAP order to 6,415.
Nearly three-quarters of those MRAPs are slated for delivery by Dec. 31. "By the end of the year, we hope to have delivered 3,935 vehicles," he said.
Factoring in the time required to equip those vehicles with jammers, communication equipment and other gear and to deliver them to the theater, Young estimated that about 3,500 of the MRAPs will be in Iraq by Dec. 31.
Meeting last night with the House and Senate Armed Services and Appropriation committees, Gates emphasized the importance of getting the V-hulled vehicles that deflect underbelly blasts to the combat zone as quickly as possible, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said.
Gates told Congress "time is of the essence," because "every month troops go without MRAPs could indeed cost lives," Morrell said. "The secretary came away from his meeting confident that Congress recognizes the urgency of this request, and he is hopeful they will quickly approve it," he said.
Congress already has shown solid support for MRAPs. The legislators added $1.2 billion to the department's initial $2.6 billion request for the program for fiscal 2007, Young said.
If approved, the fund transfer to the MRAP program will make it the Defense Department's third-largest acquisition program, he noted. Only the missile defense and Joint Strike Fighter programs will be bigger.
But dollars alone aren't enough to get MRAPs to the field, defense officials recognize. "There are no parking lots anywhere where we can go and buy lots of MRAPs," said Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael Brogan, commander of Marine Corps Systems Command.
Another problem is that no existing production lines were equipped to pump out as many MRAPs as the department needs as fast as it needs them.
A joint Defense Department team is jumping through hoops to cut through those obstacles and move MRAP procurement as quickly as possible, Young said. "This is not being handled in a business-as-usual fashion," he said.
The Defense Department has dramatically compressed the normal contracting process, worked around the clock to test potential vehicles, and helped industry aggressively ramp up production capacity, Morrell told reporters.
Four companies currently produce MRAPs, and another may join the effort soon if its prototype model measures up, Brogan said. These companies are quickly increasing their production rates to keep up with demand.
But the MRAP task force's first challenge, Young said, was to make sure the materials and parts required for MRAPs were being produced at rates fast enough to keep up with production.
For example, the tire industry was able to produce only about 1,000 of the large, heavy-duty MRAP tires per month in June. To keep pace with plans to build about 1,300 MRAPs per month by December, at least 6,000 tires a month would be needed.
"We have taken steps to help two vendors increase their ability to build tires, and we are buying tires as fast as they can produce them so that we don't have a shortage," Young said. "And we have worked within the government to buy those tires as fast as they can be produced," Young said.
The task force faced similar issues with steel, axles, engines and other MRAP components, and is taking similar measures to ensure they're available, he said.
To help their efforts, Gates assigned the MRAP program a "DX" rating in June to ensure other defense programs don't interfere with MRAP production, said Young. DX ratings are reserved for top-priority defense acquisition programs.
"The DX rating provides MRAP the highest-priority access to components and materials if supplier capacity cannot meet the demand from all programs," Young explained.
Another challenge in MRAP acquisition is ensuring the vehicles produced are up to standard and provide the best protection possible, he said.
Testers at the Army's Aberdeen Test Center, at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., are putting MRAPs through the paces, Brogan said. Working three shifts around the clock, they're evaluating prototypes to ensure they provide adequate ballistic protection and operate reliably.
In addition, troops who have served in Iraq are testing the vehicles under conditions designed to replicate the combat theater, he said.
As production capabilities increase, Morrell said, it's "imperative to take full advantage of that new-found capacity."
Troops in Iraq deserve nothing less than the very best armored vehicles possible, the officials said.
"Our troops battling improvised explosive devices deserve the very best protection available," Morrell said. "And right now, that is an armored vehicle with a raised chassis and a V-shaped undercarriage, features that make MRAPs better able to deflect blasts on roadside and deeply buried bombs."
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates yesterday asked Congress for approval to transfer nearly $1.2 billion to the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle program to get an estimated 3,500 of the vehicles to Iraq by the year's end, defense officials announced today. The funds, to be added to almost $4 billion already programmed for MRAPs this year, will speed up the timetable for getting deployed troops the best armored vehicles possible, said John Young, director of defense research and engineering and chairman of the Defense Department's MRAP task force.
By reprogramming an additional $1.2 billion to the program, the department can sign contracts for an additional 2,650 MRAPs, Young told Pentagon reporters today. This will bring the department's total MRAP order to 6,415.
Nearly three-quarters of those MRAPs are slated for delivery by Dec. 31. "By the end of the year, we hope to have delivered 3,935 vehicles," he said.
Factoring in the time required to equip those vehicles with jammers, communication equipment and other gear and to deliver them to the theater, Young estimated that about 3,500 of the MRAPs will be in Iraq by Dec. 31.
Meeting last night with the House and Senate Armed Services and Appropriation committees, Gates emphasized the importance of getting the V-hulled vehicles that deflect underbelly blasts to the combat zone as quickly as possible, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said.
Gates told Congress "time is of the essence," because "every month troops go without MRAPs could indeed cost lives," Morrell said. "The secretary came away from his meeting confident that Congress recognizes the urgency of this request, and he is hopeful they will quickly approve it," he said.
Congress already has shown solid support for MRAPs. The legislators added $1.2 billion to the department's initial $2.6 billion request for the program for fiscal 2007, Young said.
If approved, the fund transfer to the MRAP program will make it the Defense Department's third-largest acquisition program, he noted. Only the missile defense and Joint Strike Fighter programs will be bigger.
But dollars alone aren't enough to get MRAPs to the field, defense officials recognize. "There are no parking lots anywhere where we can go and buy lots of MRAPs," said Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Michael Brogan, commander of Marine Corps Systems Command.
Another problem is that no existing production lines were equipped to pump out as many MRAPs as the department needs as fast as it needs them.
A joint Defense Department team is jumping through hoops to cut through those obstacles and move MRAP procurement as quickly as possible, Young said. "This is not being handled in a business-as-usual fashion," he said.
The Defense Department has dramatically compressed the normal contracting process, worked around the clock to test potential vehicles, and helped industry aggressively ramp up production capacity, Morrell told reporters.
Four companies currently produce MRAPs, and another may join the effort soon if its prototype model measures up, Brogan said. These companies are quickly increasing their production rates to keep up with demand.
But the MRAP task force's first challenge, Young said, was to make sure the materials and parts required for MRAPs were being produced at rates fast enough to keep up with production.
For example, the tire industry was able to produce only about 1,000 of the large, heavy-duty MRAP tires per month in June. To keep pace with plans to build about 1,300 MRAPs per month by December, at least 6,000 tires a month would be needed.
"We have taken steps to help two vendors increase their ability to build tires, and we are buying tires as fast as they can produce them so that we don't have a shortage," Young said. "And we have worked within the government to buy those tires as fast as they can be produced," Young said.
The task force faced similar issues with steel, axles, engines and other MRAP components, and is taking similar measures to ensure they're available, he said.
To help their efforts, Gates assigned the MRAP program a "DX" rating in June to ensure other defense programs don't interfere with MRAP production, said Young. DX ratings are reserved for top-priority defense acquisition programs.
"The DX rating provides MRAP the highest-priority access to components and materials if supplier capacity cannot meet the demand from all programs," Young explained.
Another challenge in MRAP acquisition is ensuring the vehicles produced are up to standard and provide the best protection possible, he said.
Testers at the Army's Aberdeen Test Center, at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., are putting MRAPs through the paces, Brogan said. Working three shifts around the clock, they're evaluating prototypes to ensure they provide adequate ballistic protection and operate reliably.
In addition, troops who have served in Iraq are testing the vehicles under conditions designed to replicate the combat theater, he said.
As production capabilities increase, Morrell said, it's "imperative to take full advantage of that new-found capacity."
Troops in Iraq deserve nothing less than the very best armored vehicles possible, the officials said.
"Our troops battling improvised explosive devices deserve the very best protection available," Morrell said. "And right now, that is an armored vehicle with a raised chassis and a V-shaped undercarriage, features that make MRAPs better able to deflect blasts on roadside and deeply buried bombs."
Group Provides Troops Vital Link to Home
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – A Tennessee-based organization provides deployed servicemembers with a link to home and the gratitude of the American public through care packages and letters it sends. "Operation Troop Aid is ... striving to make a positive difference and inspire our armed forces by letting them know Americans stand with them," Mark Woods, the group's president, said.
Operation Troop Aid is a new member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The group's primary mission of sending servicemembers things they need is coupled with raising awareness about supporting the men and women defending the country, he said. The importance of that part of the mission is something to which he is attuned. Woods was deployed during the Sept. 11 attacks, according to the group's Web site.
Shortly after the attacks, he founded Operation Troop Aid. The Tennessee-based organization also has a branch in Virginia, though Woods hopes to expand Operation Troop Aid into a national organization.
The group accepts donations of cash or care package items, and also works with the entertainment industry to generate donations. To date, Operation Troop Aid has worked with Trick Pony, Nickelback, Hootie and the Blowfish, Leann Womack, Travis Tritt, the Beach Boys and Peter Frampton.
Other events, such as the "Punch Run for the Troops Benefit" scheduled for July 21, also help raise funds and donations for the group, he said.
For this event, bikers are invited to gather at the Harley-Davidson Shop in Hampton Roads, Va., where the ride begins. There, they can buy a punch card for $15. When each merchant listed on the card has punched it, the ticket holder earns a chance for a prize. At the last stop, participants can pack a box for the troops while they enjoy food and entertainment.
Woods expects to pack 500 care packages for troops that day.
"My dream is to turn (Operation Troop Aid) into the premier care package provider to deployed U.S. troops," he said on the group's Web site. "What better way to express our freedom than to reach out to the ones who provide it?"
American Forces Press Service
July 18, 2007 – A Tennessee-based organization provides deployed servicemembers with a link to home and the gratitude of the American public through care packages and letters it sends. "Operation Troop Aid is ... striving to make a positive difference and inspire our armed forces by letting them know Americans stand with them," Mark Woods, the group's president, said.
Operation Troop Aid is a new member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The group's primary mission of sending servicemembers things they need is coupled with raising awareness about supporting the men and women defending the country, he said. The importance of that part of the mission is something to which he is attuned. Woods was deployed during the Sept. 11 attacks, according to the group's Web site.
Shortly after the attacks, he founded Operation Troop Aid. The Tennessee-based organization also has a branch in Virginia, though Woods hopes to expand Operation Troop Aid into a national organization.
The group accepts donations of cash or care package items, and also works with the entertainment industry to generate donations. To date, Operation Troop Aid has worked with Trick Pony, Nickelback, Hootie and the Blowfish, Leann Womack, Travis Tritt, the Beach Boys and Peter Frampton.
Other events, such as the "Punch Run for the Troops Benefit" scheduled for July 21, also help raise funds and donations for the group, he said.
For this event, bikers are invited to gather at the Harley-Davidson Shop in Hampton Roads, Va., where the ride begins. There, they can buy a punch card for $15. When each merchant listed on the card has punched it, the ticket holder earns a chance for a prize. At the last stop, participants can pack a box for the troops while they enjoy food and entertainment.
Woods expects to pack 500 care packages for troops that day.
"My dream is to turn (Operation Troop Aid) into the premier care package provider to deployed U.S. troops," he said on the group's Web site. "What better way to express our freedom than to reach out to the ones who provide it?"
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Golfers Tee Up Support for Troops, Families
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – A San Diego-based group is working to remind troops serving overseas that folks back home are grateful for their efforts, the group's founder and chairman said. "Golfers 4 Freedom is ... dedicated toward caring for our military and their families," Keith Barnett said. "Our main effort is to give encouragement and pride to our enlisted servicemembers.
"It is vital to support those willing to sacrifice their lives in the name of freedom," he added.
Golfers 4 Freedom is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The group holds regular golf tournament fundraisers, which benefit other nonprofit groups that offer direct support to military families.
The first tournament, held in 2006, raised more than $9,000 for fellow America Supports You member the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, which grants scholarship to children of servicemembers killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.
The group also presented children of these servicemembers with Christmas gifts through the American Christmas Foundation.
Most recently, the group held a golf tournament and used the money raised to provide hand-crank bikes for amputees at Naval Medical Center San Diego. "These young men use the equipment to get exercise and fresh air," Barnett said.
Golfers 4 Freedom also runs an all-year program that provides golf equipment to U.S. military camps in Iraq, he said.
"Soldiers and Marines have used the equipment to set up golf ranges (and) courses," Barnett said. "This ... gives them a quiet time to relax individually or team up for a competitive sport."
The group's America Supports You membership has provided national visibility.
"We had a gentleman from New York find us through (the America Supports You) Web site," Barnett said. "His golf club was hosting a golf tournament and chose us as the recipient of the money raised.
"In addition, (the membership) gives us credibility with those not familiar with Golfers 4 Freedom," he added.
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – A San Diego-based group is working to remind troops serving overseas that folks back home are grateful for their efforts, the group's founder and chairman said. "Golfers 4 Freedom is ... dedicated toward caring for our military and their families," Keith Barnett said. "Our main effort is to give encouragement and pride to our enlisted servicemembers.
"It is vital to support those willing to sacrifice their lives in the name of freedom," he added.
Golfers 4 Freedom is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The group holds regular golf tournament fundraisers, which benefit other nonprofit groups that offer direct support to military families.
The first tournament, held in 2006, raised more than $9,000 for fellow America Supports You member the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, which grants scholarship to children of servicemembers killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.
The group also presented children of these servicemembers with Christmas gifts through the American Christmas Foundation.
Most recently, the group held a golf tournament and used the money raised to provide hand-crank bikes for amputees at Naval Medical Center San Diego. "These young men use the equipment to get exercise and fresh air," Barnett said.
Golfers 4 Freedom also runs an all-year program that provides golf equipment to U.S. military camps in Iraq, he said.
"Soldiers and Marines have used the equipment to set up golf ranges (and) courses," Barnett said. "This ... gives them a quiet time to relax individually or team up for a competitive sport."
The group's America Supports You membership has provided national visibility.
"We had a gentleman from New York find us through (the America Supports You) Web site," Barnett said. "His golf club was hosting a golf tournament and chose us as the recipient of the money raised.
"In addition, (the membership) gives us credibility with those not familiar with Golfers 4 Freedom," he added.
DoD Increases R&R Policy
The Department of Defense approved today a policy change to the U.S. Central Command Rest and Recuperation Leave Program, increasing the time provided to military service members for rest and recuperation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
The policy change, signed by David S. C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, increases the R&R leave period from 15 to 18 chargeable days for those service members deploying to the OEF and OIF area of operations for 15 months.
The amended policy became effective July 13, 2007, applies to military personnel only and is not retroactive. Only service members who took leave on or after July 13, 2007, may take 18 days of leave.
Service members will not be charged for their travel days. The R&R leave begins when the service member arrives at the commercial airport nearest their leave destination.
Service members serving one-year tours will continue to receive 15 days of chargeable R&R leave.
The amended R&R policy came as a result of the recent DoD change to the rotation and mobilization policy increasing some theater deployments to 15-month tours.
The policy change, signed by David S. C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, increases the R&R leave period from 15 to 18 chargeable days for those service members deploying to the OEF and OIF area of operations for 15 months.
The amended policy became effective July 13, 2007, applies to military personnel only and is not retroactive. Only service members who took leave on or after July 13, 2007, may take 18 days of leave.
Service members will not be charged for their travel days. The R&R leave begins when the service member arrives at the commercial airport nearest their leave destination.
Service members serving one-year tours will continue to receive 15 days of chargeable R&R leave.
The amended R&R policy came as a result of the recent DoD change to the rotation and mobilization policy increasing some theater deployments to 15-month tours.
Army to Launch Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD Education Program
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – Within 90 days, all soldiers will receive information to help them identify symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and mild traumatic brain injury, and they will be urged to seek treatment if necessary, Army officials told reporters at the Pentagon today. Mental health care professionals will brief Army Secretary Pete Geren on the new program at the Pentagon tomorrow. And by Oct. 18, the same educational supplement will have been presented to platoon-sized groups of active-duty, reserve and National Guard soldiers throughout the force.
"The mild traumatic brain injury and the post-traumatic stress disorders -- they're real," said Army Lt. Gen. James Campbell, director of the Army staff. "They impact soldiers and impact those soldiers' families. And as a result of that, that impacts the readiness of our great Army."
During his 37-year career, Campbell said he recalls only two other instances when the Army mandated such extensive "chain training" programs.
According to subject matter experts, mild traumatic brain injury is an affliction that's become a signature injury of the war on terror, often resulting from soldiers' proximity to roadside bombs, mortars and other explosions. Symptoms are similar to those resulting from a concussion, from slower reaction times to emotional and cognitive problems.
PTSD often occurs from a feeling of helplessness at the time of a severely traumatic event. It manifests itself in three clusters of symptoms: intrusive re-experiencing of the event, numbness or disassociation, and hypervigilance, or the feeling that one is constantly "on edge."
Traumatic brain injury, which ranges from mild to moderate and severe cases, requires an "injury event," while PTSD can occur from cumulative effects of combat or extended deployments.
During two 30-minute multimedia presentations that make up the program, soldiers will learn to identify basic symptoms in themselves and other soldiers. Afterwards, health professionals will answer troops' questions. The Army also has produced a video to make soldiers' family members more sensitive to possible warning signs and treatment options.
Campbell said the program's main objective is to reverse the tendency in military culture to attach a stigma to mental health care.
"I'm not naive. There is a huge culture issue here, and it is this: that those leaders or soldiers who seek help could be perceived ... as being weak," he said. "The whole thrust behind this program is that if you are, in fact, someone who needs help, that desire to get that help is not perceived as a weakness but rather as a strength, as a personal courage to do it."
Anticipating greater demand on its medical system, the Army is actively recruiting health care practitioners, hoping to gain 270 professionals. Currently, some soldiers wait up to one month before receiving treatment; the Army is seeking to reduce that amount of time.
"The sooner the intervention is made, the easier it is to treat," said Army Dr. (Col.) Elspeth Cameron Ritchie, director of Army's Proponency Office for Behavioral Health. "We don't want another Vietnam. We don't want people with chronic symptoms who first present (them) 15, 20, 25 years later when it's really hard to get rid of the symptoms.
"We want to take care of them and help the person right away," she added.
Soldiers and their families will be able to learn more about the program at www.army.mil. Also, the Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline can be reached at 1-800-984-8523, or via email at wsfsupport@conus.army.mil.
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – Within 90 days, all soldiers will receive information to help them identify symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and mild traumatic brain injury, and they will be urged to seek treatment if necessary, Army officials told reporters at the Pentagon today. Mental health care professionals will brief Army Secretary Pete Geren on the new program at the Pentagon tomorrow. And by Oct. 18, the same educational supplement will have been presented to platoon-sized groups of active-duty, reserve and National Guard soldiers throughout the force.
"The mild traumatic brain injury and the post-traumatic stress disorders -- they're real," said Army Lt. Gen. James Campbell, director of the Army staff. "They impact soldiers and impact those soldiers' families. And as a result of that, that impacts the readiness of our great Army."
During his 37-year career, Campbell said he recalls only two other instances when the Army mandated such extensive "chain training" programs.
According to subject matter experts, mild traumatic brain injury is an affliction that's become a signature injury of the war on terror, often resulting from soldiers' proximity to roadside bombs, mortars and other explosions. Symptoms are similar to those resulting from a concussion, from slower reaction times to emotional and cognitive problems.
PTSD often occurs from a feeling of helplessness at the time of a severely traumatic event. It manifests itself in three clusters of symptoms: intrusive re-experiencing of the event, numbness or disassociation, and hypervigilance, or the feeling that one is constantly "on edge."
Traumatic brain injury, which ranges from mild to moderate and severe cases, requires an "injury event," while PTSD can occur from cumulative effects of combat or extended deployments.
During two 30-minute multimedia presentations that make up the program, soldiers will learn to identify basic symptoms in themselves and other soldiers. Afterwards, health professionals will answer troops' questions. The Army also has produced a video to make soldiers' family members more sensitive to possible warning signs and treatment options.
Campbell said the program's main objective is to reverse the tendency in military culture to attach a stigma to mental health care.
"I'm not naive. There is a huge culture issue here, and it is this: that those leaders or soldiers who seek help could be perceived ... as being weak," he said. "The whole thrust behind this program is that if you are, in fact, someone who needs help, that desire to get that help is not perceived as a weakness but rather as a strength, as a personal courage to do it."
Anticipating greater demand on its medical system, the Army is actively recruiting health care practitioners, hoping to gain 270 professionals. Currently, some soldiers wait up to one month before receiving treatment; the Army is seeking to reduce that amount of time.
"The sooner the intervention is made, the easier it is to treat," said Army Dr. (Col.) Elspeth Cameron Ritchie, director of Army's Proponency Office for Behavioral Health. "We don't want another Vietnam. We don't want people with chronic symptoms who first present (them) 15, 20, 25 years later when it's really hard to get rid of the symptoms.
"We want to take care of them and help the person right away," she added.
Soldiers and their families will be able to learn more about the program at www.army.mil. Also, the Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline can be reached at 1-800-984-8523, or via email at wsfsupport@conus.army.mil.
Annual Program Highlights Women's Contribution to Federal Service
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – Over the years, women equipped with industry acumen and armed with advanced degrees have climbed ladders and shattered the glass ceiling that had once stunted their career growth. To train and mentor aspiring female professionals in the federal sector, a group known as Federally Employed Women, or FEW, began a training program in 1970. About 50 participants gathered yesterday for the Defense Department's forum on women affairs, one installment in a series of courses and lectures at the 38th annual FEW seminar, which runs through July 20 at the Hilton Washington Hotel here.
"Up until the 1940s, only a handful of agencies hired women," said keynote speaker Tina Jonas, the Defense Department's comptroller and chief financial officer. "Some of the offices, including the U.S. Patent Office, provided billets for women, but the women had to work at home, and their paychecks were made out in the name of their male relatives."
Jonas, the first woman to serve as the Defense Department's comptroller, said women's contribution to the work force today is invaluable.
"We simply would not be able to manage without women," she said. "At the Pentagon, women fill every role in the civil service, and throughout the armed services, including admiral and general."
As comptroller, Jonas manages an office that comprises about 60 budget analysts and other accountants, who she said put together roughly $750 billion worth of budgetary requests in "record time." Last year, the staff earned the Presidential Rank Award, which recognizes and celebrates a small group of career senior executives for exceptional long-term accomplishments.
Forty-nine percent of those workers are women who fulfill leading roles, Jonas said. For example, the assistant deputy chief financial officer, director for military personnel and construction, and director of operations are women, she noted.
"I would say that their leadership is absolutely key to the defense of the nation and to the efficient and effective management of the nation's dollars," she said. "It's not an easy job."
The team, which has near-equal gender representation, managed a $481 billion 2008 base budget, a $142 billion global war on terror budget, and $100 billion of emergency supplement funding from Congress.
"We are a complex organization," she said. "We're bigger than Ford, General Motors, Exxon or even Wal-Mart."
Jonas addressed the contributions of women in uniform, including Air Force Master Sgt. Artri Spratling, who opened the forum by singing the national anthem.
"I always get a little chill up my spine when I hear the anthem, and the master sergeant who sang today was really good at her job," Jonas said. "There are women across the military, from her job all the way across the department, working in theater, flying airplanes; this is a wonderful department.
"It's a great place for women," she noted.
American Forces Press Service
July 17, 2007 – Over the years, women equipped with industry acumen and armed with advanced degrees have climbed ladders and shattered the glass ceiling that had once stunted their career growth. To train and mentor aspiring female professionals in the federal sector, a group known as Federally Employed Women, or FEW, began a training program in 1970. About 50 participants gathered yesterday for the Defense Department's forum on women affairs, one installment in a series of courses and lectures at the 38th annual FEW seminar, which runs through July 20 at the Hilton Washington Hotel here.
"Up until the 1940s, only a handful of agencies hired women," said keynote speaker Tina Jonas, the Defense Department's comptroller and chief financial officer. "Some of the offices, including the U.S. Patent Office, provided billets for women, but the women had to work at home, and their paychecks were made out in the name of their male relatives."
Jonas, the first woman to serve as the Defense Department's comptroller, said women's contribution to the work force today is invaluable.
"We simply would not be able to manage without women," she said. "At the Pentagon, women fill every role in the civil service, and throughout the armed services, including admiral and general."
As comptroller, Jonas manages an office that comprises about 60 budget analysts and other accountants, who she said put together roughly $750 billion worth of budgetary requests in "record time." Last year, the staff earned the Presidential Rank Award, which recognizes and celebrates a small group of career senior executives for exceptional long-term accomplishments.
Forty-nine percent of those workers are women who fulfill leading roles, Jonas said. For example, the assistant deputy chief financial officer, director for military personnel and construction, and director of operations are women, she noted.
"I would say that their leadership is absolutely key to the defense of the nation and to the efficient and effective management of the nation's dollars," she said. "It's not an easy job."
The team, which has near-equal gender representation, managed a $481 billion 2008 base budget, a $142 billion global war on terror budget, and $100 billion of emergency supplement funding from Congress.
"We are a complex organization," she said. "We're bigger than Ford, General Motors, Exxon or even Wal-Mart."
Jonas addressed the contributions of women in uniform, including Air Force Master Sgt. Artri Spratling, who opened the forum by singing the national anthem.
"I always get a little chill up my spine when I hear the anthem, and the master sergeant who sang today was really good at her job," Jonas said. "There are women across the military, from her job all the way across the department, working in theater, flying airplanes; this is a wonderful department.
"It's a great place for women," she noted.
Search Underway for WWII Japanese MIAs in Alaska
The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that a small team of Japanese and U.S. specialists is visiting Attu Island, Alaska, in search of information which may lead them to remains of missing Japanese soldiers.
With support from the Department of Defense, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the team of five Japanese and three Americans arrived Thursday for a four day mission. The team is investigating potential loss or burial sites where the remains of Japanese soldiers may be found. The team's findings will be evaluated by the U.S. and Japanese governments to determine if follow-on excavations are called for.
Primary airlift for the team was provided by the U.S. Coast Guard on a regularly-scheduled C-130 airlift mission from Kodiak to Attu Island. While visiting the island, the team is being housed at the long range navigation station where some Coast Guardsmen have volunteered to assist in the investigations. Attu Island is under the management and protection of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service which administers the Aleutian Islands National Wildlife Refuge. At the end of Alaska's Aleutian island chain, Attu is the westernmost point of land of the United States.
In June 1942, a unit of the Japanese Army occupied Attu, capturing and imprisoning many of its inhabitants. U.S. forces began action to recapture the small island in May 1943, where fierce hand-to-hand battles led to about 540 American and 2,300 Japanese deaths. It was the site of the only land battle in WWII in North America.
Shortly after the war, 235 sets of Japanese remains were recovered on Attu by U.S. forces and reburied at Ft. Richardson, near Anchorage, Alaska. The Japanese later disinterred those remains, cremated them as part of a religious ceremony and reburied them at the same location.
The Japanese government assisted U.S. investigators last month in a visit to Iwo Jima in search of information related to American WWII MIAs.
With support from the Department of Defense, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the team of five Japanese and three Americans arrived Thursday for a four day mission. The team is investigating potential loss or burial sites where the remains of Japanese soldiers may be found. The team's findings will be evaluated by the U.S. and Japanese governments to determine if follow-on excavations are called for.
Primary airlift for the team was provided by the U.S. Coast Guard on a regularly-scheduled C-130 airlift mission from Kodiak to Attu Island. While visiting the island, the team is being housed at the long range navigation station where some Coast Guardsmen have volunteered to assist in the investigations. Attu Island is under the management and protection of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service which administers the Aleutian Islands National Wildlife Refuge. At the end of Alaska's Aleutian island chain, Attu is the westernmost point of land of the United States.
In June 1942, a unit of the Japanese Army occupied Attu, capturing and imprisoning many of its inhabitants. U.S. forces began action to recapture the small island in May 1943, where fierce hand-to-hand battles led to about 540 American and 2,300 Japanese deaths. It was the site of the only land battle in WWII in North America.
Shortly after the war, 235 sets of Japanese remains were recovered on Attu by U.S. forces and reburied at Ft. Richardson, near Anchorage, Alaska. The Japanese later disinterred those remains, cremated them as part of a religious ceremony and reburied them at the same location.
The Japanese government assisted U.S. investigators last month in a visit to Iwo Jima in search of information related to American WWII MIAs.
Peer Amputee Volunteer Puts Experience, Compassion Into Recovery
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – An admitted golf "nut," Jack Farley said he has heard probably every handicap joke there is, having hit the green for the last four decades wearing a prosthetic right leg. Still, nobody cuts him any slack, he said. "I try to get strokes for this and nobody will give me any strokes," Farley said and laughed.
Farley is a peer amputee visitor at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. A retired federal judge, Farley is quick with a joke and a smile. He knows nearly everybody at the center it seems and knows nearly everything there is to know about prosthetics.
His right leg was claimed by a mortar in Vietnam nearly 40 years ago. He was fitted for his first prosthesis at Walter Reed. It was there, on a blind date, that Farley met the woman who would later become his wife. It was there he started a new life. If he hadn't lost his leg, Farley said, he wouldn't have returned to college to study law and subsequently would not have become a federal judge. It is only fitting, Farley said, that he returns to help others.
"It's a sense of paying back. I had mentors and people visiting me when I was here in Walter Reed in 1969 and '70," he said. "I get more out of it than they do. It's a real selfish act on my part."
The peer visitor program began four years ago at Walter Reed when, due to the war in Iraq, an influx of amputees started entering the hospital system. It began with a small group of amputees experienced in visiting and listening and helping new amputees and has grown into a formal program offering training and certification. Peer amputee visitors are considered part of the treatment team at the center. They have access to every floor.
"In the beginning our job is just to listen. I don't come in and say, 'Hey, look at me,'" Farley said. "The peer visitor comes in and just tries to deal with the family and deal with the patient, explaining that life is going to be different, but whether it's better or worse it's still up to the patient."
On this visit, Farley talked with Marine Lance Cpl. Josh Bleill, who lost both legs in Iraq when the Humvee in which he was riding struck a bomb. It killed two fellow Marines, one riding to the front and one to the left of him. The gunner lost his right leg. Remarkably, the driver was uninjured and is still serving in Iraq, Josh said.
Josh was getting a new socket, the piece of the prosthetic leg in which the residual portion of the leg fits. New bone growth in Josh's leg rubbed against his old socket, causing pain.
Wearing a pair of khaki shorts, Farley sported a star-spangled socket -- blue with white stars, just like an American flag. It is the most important piece of the prosthetic leg, he said.
"You can put a million dollars in technology below the socket, but if it doesn't fit right or is uncomfortable, nobody is going to wear it," he said.
Josh said Farley's experience sometimes helps him explain things to the doctors and technicians that are hard to put into words.
The program consistently receives the highest ratings from patients at the center, he said.
"It's a great program," Josh said. "It's nice to see when you are first injured that there is life after this."
Farley said his role changes during the progress of the amputee. Each goes through five stages: enduring, suffering, reckoning, reconciling and normalization.
For many, though, there is a sixth stage -- thriving, Farley said.
"You'll see people who actually accomplish more having gone through the trauma ... than they would without it," Farley said.
"I wouldn't have gone to law school. I already had an MBA. I was going into business. I would have never been a lawyer, much less a federal judge," Farley said. "By overcoming this in a positive way, it actually can assist you in other challenges in life."
Farley said that some younger servicemembers resist help at first. He told the story of a young man who was trying to do everything himself, resisting the helpful efforts of a new bride.
"He wanted to do everything himself," Farley said. "One day I just pulled him aside and said, "You know, the greatest gift of love you can give is to maybe allow somebody to help you.
"Later on, we all realize we need the help of everybody," he said.
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – An admitted golf "nut," Jack Farley said he has heard probably every handicap joke there is, having hit the green for the last four decades wearing a prosthetic right leg. Still, nobody cuts him any slack, he said. "I try to get strokes for this and nobody will give me any strokes," Farley said and laughed.
Farley is a peer amputee visitor at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. A retired federal judge, Farley is quick with a joke and a smile. He knows nearly everybody at the center it seems and knows nearly everything there is to know about prosthetics.
His right leg was claimed by a mortar in Vietnam nearly 40 years ago. He was fitted for his first prosthesis at Walter Reed. It was there, on a blind date, that Farley met the woman who would later become his wife. It was there he started a new life. If he hadn't lost his leg, Farley said, he wouldn't have returned to college to study law and subsequently would not have become a federal judge. It is only fitting, Farley said, that he returns to help others.
"It's a sense of paying back. I had mentors and people visiting me when I was here in Walter Reed in 1969 and '70," he said. "I get more out of it than they do. It's a real selfish act on my part."
The peer visitor program began four years ago at Walter Reed when, due to the war in Iraq, an influx of amputees started entering the hospital system. It began with a small group of amputees experienced in visiting and listening and helping new amputees and has grown into a formal program offering training and certification. Peer amputee visitors are considered part of the treatment team at the center. They have access to every floor.
"In the beginning our job is just to listen. I don't come in and say, 'Hey, look at me,'" Farley said. "The peer visitor comes in and just tries to deal with the family and deal with the patient, explaining that life is going to be different, but whether it's better or worse it's still up to the patient."
On this visit, Farley talked with Marine Lance Cpl. Josh Bleill, who lost both legs in Iraq when the Humvee in which he was riding struck a bomb. It killed two fellow Marines, one riding to the front and one to the left of him. The gunner lost his right leg. Remarkably, the driver was uninjured and is still serving in Iraq, Josh said.
Josh was getting a new socket, the piece of the prosthetic leg in which the residual portion of the leg fits. New bone growth in Josh's leg rubbed against his old socket, causing pain.
Wearing a pair of khaki shorts, Farley sported a star-spangled socket -- blue with white stars, just like an American flag. It is the most important piece of the prosthetic leg, he said.
"You can put a million dollars in technology below the socket, but if it doesn't fit right or is uncomfortable, nobody is going to wear it," he said.
Josh said Farley's experience sometimes helps him explain things to the doctors and technicians that are hard to put into words.
The program consistently receives the highest ratings from patients at the center, he said.
"It's a great program," Josh said. "It's nice to see when you are first injured that there is life after this."
Farley said his role changes during the progress of the amputee. Each goes through five stages: enduring, suffering, reckoning, reconciling and normalization.
For many, though, there is a sixth stage -- thriving, Farley said.
"You'll see people who actually accomplish more having gone through the trauma ... than they would without it," Farley said.
"I wouldn't have gone to law school. I already had an MBA. I was going into business. I would have never been a lawyer, much less a federal judge," Farley said. "By overcoming this in a positive way, it actually can assist you in other challenges in life."
Farley said that some younger servicemembers resist help at first. He told the story of a young man who was trying to do everything himself, resisting the helpful efforts of a new bride.
"He wanted to do everything himself," Farley said. "One day I just pulled him aside and said, "You know, the greatest gift of love you can give is to maybe allow somebody to help you.
"Later on, we all realize we need the help of everybody," he said.
Women's Basketball Salutes Troops, Families
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – The Women's National Basketball Association showed its support for the military by giving out 2,000 free tickets for U.S. servicemembers and military family members to attend this year's All-Star Game held yesterday at the Verizon Center here. To further honor women serving in the military, the WNBA invited Air Force Brig. Gen. Michelle D. Johnson to attend the game. Johnson, a former star player on the Air Force Academy's women's basketball team and a member of the academy's athletic hall of fame, participated in a ceremonial tip off.
"It's fabulous the WNBA would be so generous and invite so many military members and their kids," said Johnson, the director of U.S. Air Force Public Affairs. Parallels between sports and the military are "immense," she noted, citing shared values of teamwork, setting goals and working for a greater good.
WNBA leaders and players "do great things for their communities," Johnson said. "I love it that they're reaching out to the folks here."
Air Force Secretary Michael W. Wynne also attended the game. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Casey Elliot, a vocalist for the U.S. Navy Band, was accompanied by a Joint Service Color Guard as she sang the national anthem before the game began.
The Women's NBA is proud to honor America's servicemembers and their families, said Donna Orender, the association's president.
"The WNBA really believes in thanking all of the service people, because we truly believe that they not only support, but also help to create our way of life and preserve it," Orender said.
Members of the crowd were encouraged to support U.S. troops by a pre-game announcement over the Verizon Center's public address system informing the crowd about the Defense Department's America Supports You program. The program connects servicemembers and their families to individuals, groups and companies that provide support and assistance. There are more than 250 ASY homefront groups, as well as a multitude of corporate sponsors.
The WNBA also has been "thrilled" with America Supports You, Orender said, noting it "is a great outreach program that allows every American to let our troops know that we are behind them, and I think that is very important."
Young beneficiaries of the America Supports You-affiliated group "Kids Serve Too" participated in pre-game activities and later welcomed the All-Star players as they took the court. Kids Serve Too sends thank you cards and letters to children of deployed servicemembers. Families from all branches of the armed services can request a letter for their children at www.saluteourservices.org.
Andrea Hall appreciated that Kids Serve Too sent cards to her children to thank them for their father's service in Afghanistan in 2005. "I think that military families need all the support that they can get," she said. "America Supports You acts on that."
Wilda Ferguson, a member of another military family that attended the All-Star game, also is grateful for ASY and other kinds of family-member support. Her Virginia Army National Guard husband, Lt. Col. John Ferguson, just returned home after serving a year-long tour of duty in Iraq. John and Wilda Ferguson attended the All-Star Game with their twin 6-year-old daughters, Devin and Julia.
"People don't realize just how tough it is to have somebody deployed," Wilda said. "You try not to worry and do all the things that you need to do in order for him not to be worried about things on the home front so he can do what he needs to do while he's overseas."
The Eastern Conference All-Stars beat the West's squad, 103-99, in the annual All-Star showdown.
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – The Women's National Basketball Association showed its support for the military by giving out 2,000 free tickets for U.S. servicemembers and military family members to attend this year's All-Star Game held yesterday at the Verizon Center here. To further honor women serving in the military, the WNBA invited Air Force Brig. Gen. Michelle D. Johnson to attend the game. Johnson, a former star player on the Air Force Academy's women's basketball team and a member of the academy's athletic hall of fame, participated in a ceremonial tip off.
"It's fabulous the WNBA would be so generous and invite so many military members and their kids," said Johnson, the director of U.S. Air Force Public Affairs. Parallels between sports and the military are "immense," she noted, citing shared values of teamwork, setting goals and working for a greater good.
WNBA leaders and players "do great things for their communities," Johnson said. "I love it that they're reaching out to the folks here."
Air Force Secretary Michael W. Wynne also attended the game. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Casey Elliot, a vocalist for the U.S. Navy Band, was accompanied by a Joint Service Color Guard as she sang the national anthem before the game began.
The Women's NBA is proud to honor America's servicemembers and their families, said Donna Orender, the association's president.
"The WNBA really believes in thanking all of the service people, because we truly believe that they not only support, but also help to create our way of life and preserve it," Orender said.
Members of the crowd were encouraged to support U.S. troops by a pre-game announcement over the Verizon Center's public address system informing the crowd about the Defense Department's America Supports You program. The program connects servicemembers and their families to individuals, groups and companies that provide support and assistance. There are more than 250 ASY homefront groups, as well as a multitude of corporate sponsors.
The WNBA also has been "thrilled" with America Supports You, Orender said, noting it "is a great outreach program that allows every American to let our troops know that we are behind them, and I think that is very important."
Young beneficiaries of the America Supports You-affiliated group "Kids Serve Too" participated in pre-game activities and later welcomed the All-Star players as they took the court. Kids Serve Too sends thank you cards and letters to children of deployed servicemembers. Families from all branches of the armed services can request a letter for their children at www.saluteourservices.org.
Andrea Hall appreciated that Kids Serve Too sent cards to her children to thank them for their father's service in Afghanistan in 2005. "I think that military families need all the support that they can get," she said. "America Supports You acts on that."
Wilda Ferguson, a member of another military family that attended the All-Star game, also is grateful for ASY and other kinds of family-member support. Her Virginia Army National Guard husband, Lt. Col. John Ferguson, just returned home after serving a year-long tour of duty in Iraq. John and Wilda Ferguson attended the All-Star Game with their twin 6-year-old daughters, Devin and Julia.
"People don't realize just how tough it is to have somebody deployed," Wilda said. "You try not to worry and do all the things that you need to do in order for him not to be worried about things on the home front so he can do what he needs to do while he's overseas."
The Eastern Conference All-Stars beat the West's squad, 103-99, in the annual All-Star showdown.
'Spirit of America Tour' Founder Receives Top Public Service Honor
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – With country music legend Charlie Daniels at his side, Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England today honored Robert Rosenthal, who with his wife Nina has been bringing top entertainers to stateside troops since 2002. England presented Rosenthal the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service for his and his wife's support for the men and women in uniform. The medal is the highest honorary award the department can present to a private citizen.
The Rosenthals created the Spirit of America Tour after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to boost the morale of the troops and their families at stateside bases with headline performances, Rosenthal said. Since then, they've poured in more than $2 million of their own money to cover overhead expenses and recruited big-name performers such as Daniels who are willing to volunteer their time. To date, they've put on 92 concerts for more than 450,000 troops and their families.
England praised Rosenthal for devoting countless hours coordinating with artists, agents, managers and Defense Department officials to arrange shows that bring "a touch of home" to military bases.
"Thanks for all your great work and contribution ... in remembering our men and women in uniform." England said. "It's wonderful that you do this."
Daniels, whose band frequently entertains troops through the Spirit of America Tour program, called Rosenthal "a truly great American who has all the services very much at heart and ... wanted to be a part of making life a little easier for them."
Rosenthal noted that with so much focus on U.S. troops deployed overseas, sometimes those serving stateside get overlooked. "They need a morale boost, also," he said. "They need somebody from the entertainment industry to say to them, 'We support you.'" Hearing that message directly from entertainers like Daniels who come to their bases as volunteers means a lot to troops and their families, he said.
Seventy-year-old Daniels, who remembers the Pearl Harbor attack and grew up at a time of "intense patriotism," said today's troops deserve nothing less.
"What they are doing is protecting America," he said. "I know in my mind and I know in my heart that what we are doing in Iraq and what we are doing in Afghanistan is the war on terror....It is the most serious situation this country has been involved in since the Second World War."
"The world will never be the same again," since the 9/11 attacks and the spread of terrorism, he said. "And the only thing standing between us and (terrorists) is our military, and they deserve our support."
Daniels said he likes to share that support when he walks on stage to entertain the troops. He said he's traveled the country "coast to coast and border to border every year," and knows that public support for the military goes "incredibly beyond" what the media reports. "I want them to know it," he said.
He also wants the troops to know "that they did not give up the prime years of their life volunteering for something that made no difference."
"It does make a difference," Daniels said. "It is the difference between America being free and America not being free. It is the difference of America being safe and America not being safe. It is the difference between there being an America and there not being an America. And I believe that with all my heart."
Daniels' next scheduled appearance with the Spirit of America Tour will be Sept. 9 at Fort Polk, La.
The Spirit of America Tour is a partner in the Defense Department's "America Supports You" program that showcases the many initiatives the American public is carrying out to support the troops.
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – With country music legend Charlie Daniels at his side, Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England today honored Robert Rosenthal, who with his wife Nina has been bringing top entertainers to stateside troops since 2002. England presented Rosenthal the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service for his and his wife's support for the men and women in uniform. The medal is the highest honorary award the department can present to a private citizen.
The Rosenthals created the Spirit of America Tour after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to boost the morale of the troops and their families at stateside bases with headline performances, Rosenthal said. Since then, they've poured in more than $2 million of their own money to cover overhead expenses and recruited big-name performers such as Daniels who are willing to volunteer their time. To date, they've put on 92 concerts for more than 450,000 troops and their families.
England praised Rosenthal for devoting countless hours coordinating with artists, agents, managers and Defense Department officials to arrange shows that bring "a touch of home" to military bases.
"Thanks for all your great work and contribution ... in remembering our men and women in uniform." England said. "It's wonderful that you do this."
Daniels, whose band frequently entertains troops through the Spirit of America Tour program, called Rosenthal "a truly great American who has all the services very much at heart and ... wanted to be a part of making life a little easier for them."
Rosenthal noted that with so much focus on U.S. troops deployed overseas, sometimes those serving stateside get overlooked. "They need a morale boost, also," he said. "They need somebody from the entertainment industry to say to them, 'We support you.'" Hearing that message directly from entertainers like Daniels who come to their bases as volunteers means a lot to troops and their families, he said.
Seventy-year-old Daniels, who remembers the Pearl Harbor attack and grew up at a time of "intense patriotism," said today's troops deserve nothing less.
"What they are doing is protecting America," he said. "I know in my mind and I know in my heart that what we are doing in Iraq and what we are doing in Afghanistan is the war on terror....It is the most serious situation this country has been involved in since the Second World War."
"The world will never be the same again," since the 9/11 attacks and the spread of terrorism, he said. "And the only thing standing between us and (terrorists) is our military, and they deserve our support."
Daniels said he likes to share that support when he walks on stage to entertain the troops. He said he's traveled the country "coast to coast and border to border every year," and knows that public support for the military goes "incredibly beyond" what the media reports. "I want them to know it," he said.
He also wants the troops to know "that they did not give up the prime years of their life volunteering for something that made no difference."
"It does make a difference," Daniels said. "It is the difference between America being free and America not being free. It is the difference of America being safe and America not being safe. It is the difference between there being an America and there not being an America. And I believe that with all my heart."
Daniels' next scheduled appearance with the Spirit of America Tour will be Sept. 9 at Fort Polk, La.
The Spirit of America Tour is a partner in the Defense Department's "America Supports You" program that showcases the many initiatives the American public is carrying out to support the troops.
Chairman Checks Morale Among Deployed Troops
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – Families and morale are important parts of the equation in assessing the health of the force, according to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Marine Gen. Peter Pace arrived here today to meet with leaders and troops in an effort to assess troop morale in U.S. Central Command during a swing through the region.
Pace and Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, the senior enlisted advisor to the chairman, will meet with troops all over the country. Also helping with the assessment is retired Marine Col. Barney Barnum, the deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for reserve affairs. Barnum received the Medal of Honor for actions in combat in Vietnam in 1969.
"What's important from a military standpoint is what we see on the battlefield," Pace said. "I think from the standpoint of stress on the force, what's important is what you see in the kitchens. Both of these aspects need to be taken into consideration when looking at the health of the force."
Tour lengths, dwell time between deployments, the number of tours affect both troop and family morale, the chairman said. "We need to make sure those who volunteer -- that one percent of the nation that signs up to protect the other 99 percent -- know that their service is valued and that we provide for them as best we can," Pace said.
The war on terror is the first prolonged war the United States has fought with an all-volunteer force.
"There is no historical data to go back to," Pace said. "That's why it's really important for me and everybody else to constantly talk to people and listen to them. Retention is still extremely high -- higher than it was before the war -- but you just can't take numbers like that and assume that it means everything is just fine."
And families are incredibly important to the equation. Pace said the force today is an "all-recruited force."
"You recruit individuals, but you retain families," he said.
Part of his trip will be to visit families of American servicemembers deployed to U.S. Central Command from Europe.
"I owe it to them to stand in front of them and explain to them the process that we went through from July through December last year," Pace told reporters traveling with him to Iraq. "(I want to tell them) how my thinking emerged, why I made the recommendations I did and, most importantly, tell them that we understand their sacrifice."
This is the first time Pace has had the opportunity to meet with these Europe-based family members since the decision to extend soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan to 15 months. He has met with families in Alaska, Hawaii and other stateside posts, but this is the first time meeting with families living overseas.
"It's important to remember that it is not just the men and women in uniform that are making the sacrifices," he said. "The families are the ones changing the calendars on the refrigerator doors."
Pace said there are many ways to quantify morale of the force. Reenlistment is strong, "but that's not good enough for me," he said. "I want to get out and talk to the families. I want to look the spouses in the eyes and talk to them about what we're doing and why we're doing it and get their reactions."
American Forces Press Service
July 16, 2007 – Families and morale are important parts of the equation in assessing the health of the force, according to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Marine Gen. Peter Pace arrived here today to meet with leaders and troops in an effort to assess troop morale in U.S. Central Command during a swing through the region.
Pace and Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, the senior enlisted advisor to the chairman, will meet with troops all over the country. Also helping with the assessment is retired Marine Col. Barney Barnum, the deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for reserve affairs. Barnum received the Medal of Honor for actions in combat in Vietnam in 1969.
"What's important from a military standpoint is what we see on the battlefield," Pace said. "I think from the standpoint of stress on the force, what's important is what you see in the kitchens. Both of these aspects need to be taken into consideration when looking at the health of the force."
Tour lengths, dwell time between deployments, the number of tours affect both troop and family morale, the chairman said. "We need to make sure those who volunteer -- that one percent of the nation that signs up to protect the other 99 percent -- know that their service is valued and that we provide for them as best we can," Pace said.
The war on terror is the first prolonged war the United States has fought with an all-volunteer force.
"There is no historical data to go back to," Pace said. "That's why it's really important for me and everybody else to constantly talk to people and listen to them. Retention is still extremely high -- higher than it was before the war -- but you just can't take numbers like that and assume that it means everything is just fine."
And families are incredibly important to the equation. Pace said the force today is an "all-recruited force."
"You recruit individuals, but you retain families," he said.
Part of his trip will be to visit families of American servicemembers deployed to U.S. Central Command from Europe.
"I owe it to them to stand in front of them and explain to them the process that we went through from July through December last year," Pace told reporters traveling with him to Iraq. "(I want to tell them) how my thinking emerged, why I made the recommendations I did and, most importantly, tell them that we understand their sacrifice."
This is the first time Pace has had the opportunity to meet with these Europe-based family members since the decision to extend soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan to 15 months. He has met with families in Alaska, Hawaii and other stateside posts, but this is the first time meeting with families living overseas.
"It's important to remember that it is not just the men and women in uniform that are making the sacrifices," he said. "The families are the ones changing the calendars on the refrigerator doors."
Pace said there are many ways to quantify morale of the force. Reenlistment is strong, "but that's not good enough for me," he said. "I want to get out and talk to the families. I want to look the spouses in the eyes and talk to them about what we're doing and why we're doing it and get their reactions."
Terrorism, Poetry and Memoirs
Editor's Note: Two of the three authors are former military.
July 17, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three police officers who have written books: Richard L. Allen; Michael Aman; and, Anthony J. Carbo.
Richard L. Allen was born in Gary, Indiana and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He served four years as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, including six months in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. After 24 years in the Air Force Reserves, Allen joined the Newark Police Department where he served until his retirement in 2001. Richard Allen is the author of Lock and Key; Poetic Police Food for Thought; and, A New Ark Police Officer's View of Poetic Just Ice/Justice.
According to the book description of Lock and Key, “with enough episodes to fill a season of televised police dramas, author and former police officer Richard Allen provides readers with a candid look into the nature of police work and the daily challenges an officer must face. In his memoir, "Lock and Key," Allen recalls some of the most unforgettable incidents and individuals of his experience. He depicts the humanity, compassion, and courage of those who serve their community as officers of the peace while revealing his deepest gratitude and appreciation for his fellow police officers. "Lock & Key" will definitely leave readers a greater appreciation of police work and a deeper respect for those who work to keep us safe.”
Michael Aman was a commissioned officer in the German Air Force from 1984 to 1993. Upon immigrating to the United States he joined the El Paso Police Department and has risen to the rank of detective. Michael Aman has served in the Gang Unit, Cold Case Squad, Criminal Investigations Division, Dignitary Protection Unit, and the Patrol Division.
Michael Aman has an MBA from the German Armed Forces University. During his law enforcement career, Michael Aman Developed a course for law enforcement officials called “Defense Against Terrorist Suicide Attacks.” Eventually, that course let to the book Preventing Suicide Terrorist Attacks.
He described the book as a self-study training manual for law officers or for civilians who want to be informed about the topic. According to an interview in the El Paso Times Michael Aman said, “It's really written for police officers, specifically patrol officers who might come in contact with these guys. That's the main target audience.”
According to the book description of Preventing Suicide Terrorist Attacks, “It won't happen here, is a common belief when it comes to suicide attacks by terrorists, but unfortunately-it can. This text provides essential information for law enforcement officers on techniques for recognizing potential terrorists and preventing suicide attacks. Information discussed is applicable to preventing attacks that are domestic and international in origin. This resource is ideal for self-study or as a four-hour training course.”
In 1964, Anthony J. Carbo joined the Newark Police Department. During his career he worked patrol, traffic and the Patrol Division Crimes Prevention Unit. He retired in 1979. He is the author of Memoirs of a Newark, New Jersey Police Officer. According to the book description, his book is “a story from a police officer telling of his personal thoughts. These are fast moving episodes that go from one incident to another at a quick and moving pace telling of life, death, unrest and riots during some of the most turbulent years from 1964 to 1979 in the City of Newark.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 648 police officers (representing 284 police departments) and their 1382 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
July 17, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three police officers who have written books: Richard L. Allen; Michael Aman; and, Anthony J. Carbo.
Richard L. Allen was born in Gary, Indiana and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He served four years as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, including six months in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. After 24 years in the Air Force Reserves, Allen joined the Newark Police Department where he served until his retirement in 2001. Richard Allen is the author of Lock and Key; Poetic Police Food for Thought; and, A New Ark Police Officer's View of Poetic Just Ice/Justice.
According to the book description of Lock and Key, “with enough episodes to fill a season of televised police dramas, author and former police officer Richard Allen provides readers with a candid look into the nature of police work and the daily challenges an officer must face. In his memoir, "Lock and Key," Allen recalls some of the most unforgettable incidents and individuals of his experience. He depicts the humanity, compassion, and courage of those who serve their community as officers of the peace while revealing his deepest gratitude and appreciation for his fellow police officers. "Lock & Key" will definitely leave readers a greater appreciation of police work and a deeper respect for those who work to keep us safe.”
Michael Aman was a commissioned officer in the German Air Force from 1984 to 1993. Upon immigrating to the United States he joined the El Paso Police Department and has risen to the rank of detective. Michael Aman has served in the Gang Unit, Cold Case Squad, Criminal Investigations Division, Dignitary Protection Unit, and the Patrol Division.
Michael Aman has an MBA from the German Armed Forces University. During his law enforcement career, Michael Aman Developed a course for law enforcement officials called “Defense Against Terrorist Suicide Attacks.” Eventually, that course let to the book Preventing Suicide Terrorist Attacks.
He described the book as a self-study training manual for law officers or for civilians who want to be informed about the topic. According to an interview in the El Paso Times Michael Aman said, “It's really written for police officers, specifically patrol officers who might come in contact with these guys. That's the main target audience.”
According to the book description of Preventing Suicide Terrorist Attacks, “It won't happen here, is a common belief when it comes to suicide attacks by terrorists, but unfortunately-it can. This text provides essential information for law enforcement officers on techniques for recognizing potential terrorists and preventing suicide attacks. Information discussed is applicable to preventing attacks that are domestic and international in origin. This resource is ideal for self-study or as a four-hour training course.”
In 1964, Anthony J. Carbo joined the Newark Police Department. During his career he worked patrol, traffic and the Patrol Division Crimes Prevention Unit. He retired in 1979. He is the author of Memoirs of a Newark, New Jersey Police Officer. According to the book description, his book is “a story from a police officer telling of his personal thoughts. These are fast moving episodes that go from one incident to another at a quick and moving pace telling of life, death, unrest and riots during some of the most turbulent years from 1964 to 1979 in the City of Newark.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 648 police officers (representing 284 police departments) and their 1382 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Military Books
Military-Writers.com is a website committed to listing military personnel who have authored books. The website added three authors: David Hatch, Thomas Russo; and, Richard L. Allen.
Detective David E. Hatch spent more than 27 years with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. David Hatch joined the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1969 after discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1980, as a detective, he joined the homicide section. During his time with homicide, he investigated over 400 homicides and 125 officer-involved shootings.
After retirement in 1997, David Hatch has concentrated on law enforcement related writing and teaching. He is the author of Officer-Involved Shootings and Use of Force: Practical Investigative Techniques, Second Edition (Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations).
David Hatch’s book, now in its second edition, “continues to provide sound and sober models, protocols, and procedures to handle the highly charged fall-out from officer involved shootings. Written by cops for cops, it is designed to address the needs of the agency, the rights of the employee, and the concerns of the public, and give law enforcement the policies and tools to properly investigate and document this high profile area.”
In 1956, Thomas J. Russo joined the United States Navy. He served in the Mediterranean on the minesweeper USS Dash. He was honorably discharged in 1958. In 1960, Thomas Russo joined the Montclair Police Department (New Jersey). Thomas Russo served through the ranks of the Montclair Police Department, ultimately becoming the chief of police in 1993. He retired in 2001.
Thomas J. Russo is a graduate of the FBI’s National Academy and the Secret Service Dignitary Protection School in Washington, D.C. He is the recipient of a Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia and a graduate of the Certified Public Manager Course of the State of New Jersey. Thomas Russo is published his autobiography Street Kid to Top Cop in 2005.
Richard L. Allen was born in Gary, Indiana and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He served four years as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, including six months in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. After 24 years in the Air Force Reserves, Allen joined the Newark Police Department where he served until his retirement in 2001. Richard Allen is the author of Lock and Key; Poetic Police Food for Thought; and, A New Ark Police Officer's View of Poetic Just Ice/Justice.
According to the book description of Lock and Key, “with enough episodes to fill a season of televised police dramas, author and former police officer Richard Allen provides readers with a candid look into the nature of police work and the daily challenges an officer must face. In his memoir, "Lock and Key," Allen recalls some of the most unforgettable incidents and individuals of his experience. He depicts the humanity, compassion, and courage of those who serve their community as officers of the peace while revealing his deepest gratitude and appreciation for his fellow police officers”
Military-Writers.com currently lists 31 current or former military members and their 64 books.
Detective David E. Hatch spent more than 27 years with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. David Hatch joined the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1969 after discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1980, as a detective, he joined the homicide section. During his time with homicide, he investigated over 400 homicides and 125 officer-involved shootings.
After retirement in 1997, David Hatch has concentrated on law enforcement related writing and teaching. He is the author of Officer-Involved Shootings and Use of Force: Practical Investigative Techniques, Second Edition (Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations).
David Hatch’s book, now in its second edition, “continues to provide sound and sober models, protocols, and procedures to handle the highly charged fall-out from officer involved shootings. Written by cops for cops, it is designed to address the needs of the agency, the rights of the employee, and the concerns of the public, and give law enforcement the policies and tools to properly investigate and document this high profile area.”
In 1956, Thomas J. Russo joined the United States Navy. He served in the Mediterranean on the minesweeper USS Dash. He was honorably discharged in 1958. In 1960, Thomas Russo joined the Montclair Police Department (New Jersey). Thomas Russo served through the ranks of the Montclair Police Department, ultimately becoming the chief of police in 1993. He retired in 2001.
Thomas J. Russo is a graduate of the FBI’s National Academy and the Secret Service Dignitary Protection School in Washington, D.C. He is the recipient of a Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia and a graduate of the Certified Public Manager Course of the State of New Jersey. Thomas Russo is published his autobiography Street Kid to Top Cop in 2005.
Richard L. Allen was born in Gary, Indiana and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He served four years as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, including six months in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. After 24 years in the Air Force Reserves, Allen joined the Newark Police Department where he served until his retirement in 2001. Richard Allen is the author of Lock and Key; Poetic Police Food for Thought; and, A New Ark Police Officer's View of Poetic Just Ice/Justice.
According to the book description of Lock and Key, “with enough episodes to fill a season of televised police dramas, author and former police officer Richard Allen provides readers with a candid look into the nature of police work and the daily challenges an officer must face. In his memoir, "Lock and Key," Allen recalls some of the most unforgettable incidents and individuals of his experience. He depicts the humanity, compassion, and courage of those who serve their community as officers of the peace while revealing his deepest gratitude and appreciation for his fellow police officers”
Military-Writers.com currently lists 31 current or former military members and their 64 books.
Camaraderie, Patriotism, Pride Spur On Troops in Combat
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
July 15, 2007 – Each day, as the nation's volunteer military men and women perform their mission in Iraq and Afghanistan, they know the enemy they're up against employs uncommon tactics and weapons and that a simple misstep could cause disfigurement or death. This weekend, the military's top-ranking general paid tribute to the 26,000 troops who have been wounded and 4,000 killed facing this enemy.
On behalf of these wounded and fallen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace honored four Purple Heart recipients, one from each service, at an evening parade at the historic Marine Barracks here.
Pace said Army Cpl. Mathew Murray, Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle, Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall and Air Force Senior Airman Michael Fletcher also represent those who serve around the world protecting America's way of life.
"Another 2.4 million Americans just like them serve our nation tonight so we can ... live the lives we want to live, enjoy our families, pray where we want to pray - or not pray - and just live our lives as Americans," Pace said. "To each of you and all those you represent, thank you."
The four honorees talked with American Forces Press Service at a pre-parade reception about the camaraderie, patriotism and pride they said helps keep them and their cohorts motivated in the dangerous, uncertain lands where they're deployed.
Army Cpl. Mathew Murray
Army Cpl. Mathew Murray deployed to Iraq in August 2006 as a weapons intelligence team member. His neck was broken by an improvised explosive device in December of that year while he was performing forensic analysis near Camp Taji.
Murray said most of the wounded troops he's met are staying positive and going on with their lives. Only about 5 percent are bitter about their injuries.
"It's a very low ratio because we knew what we were doing when we signed up," he said. "There's no doubt in your mind that you could get hurt doing this job. It's not like you weren't informed of the dangers. You know what's going on. It's on the TV everywhere."
Murray said his personal philosophy about combat is simple: "When it's your time to go, it's your time to go."
"I was wearing every protective measure I could, and it still happened," he said. "There's really nothing but chance that's stopping you from getting injured."
But getting hit, he added, "is really the last thing on your mind. You see how the Iraqis live and you really want to help."
As an infantryman investigating IED sites, Murray he had a lot of contact with the local people. During his dealings with them, he said he always tried to represent the Army and the United States the best he could.
"We talked to them a lot and even with the people who were suspects, I tried to keep a professional, kind attitude toward them," he said. "I made sure they were comfortable, but still restrained the way they needed to be." In return, he said, the Iraqis were "respectful and they complied."
Asked if he'd return to Iraq, Murray replied, "in a heartbeat." He'd said he'd go back "in case something like this happened to somebody else. They might need me there to do something. It's for the other soldiers, the other troops, not so much for myself."
Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle
In November 2005, during his third deployment in Iraq, Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle led his squad in combat in Ramadi. During an attack on an observation post by indirect rocket-propelled-grenade and small-arms fire, he was struck in the face by shrapnel. Despite his injury, Wahle exposed himself to enemy fire as he delivered vital ammunition to all posts.
In January 2006, Wahle observed enemy activity and, anticipating an assault, assembled the reaction force and forward air controller. During the attack, he coordinated his post's response and told the forward air controller where to lay down fire. By foreseeing the attack, he enabled the post to gain fire superiority and defeat the attack.
Wahle, who received a Bronze Star Medal for the courage he demonstrated, said he was honored to represent the Marine Corps' warriors.
Asked what keeps him motivated, the five-year veteran replied, "I'd have to say 'pride.' Pride in the Marine Corps. Pride in my country, my family. It's what I do. It's just who I am."
Wahle said he planned to reenlist and apply for an officer training program. "I love the Marine Corps. I love leading Marines," he said. "I like to do good things and make a positive impact."
Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall
Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall, a medical corpsman, deployed to Iraq with the 5th Marine Regiment from August 2004 to March 2005. He was riding in a 7-ton truck in a convoy in Ramadi when an IED blast hit the vehicle, wounding him and many of the passengers.
Hall sustained multiple shrapnel fragments to his left upper arm, one that passed through his left forearm, and other shrapnel fragments to his face. Three Marines were also injured.
Although dazed by the blast and bleeding from his own wounds, Hall triaged his fellow passengers and provided emergency medical care to the worst-injured Marine. Hall bandaged the Marine's neck helped him breathe, despite limited use of his own left arm. Hall also directed the convoy corpsman in rendering aid to the other Marines.
Only after these patients had been treated and their evacuation coordinated did Hall permit himself to be treated and evacuated from the scene. Because of his quick and efficient medical care, all three wounded Marines survived, and none suffered unnecessary loss of limb or eyesight.
Hall said his chosen profession was key to the way he approached combat mentally. "I'm a Navy corpsman and I think that inherently within us, because of our training and our tradition, we do the things that bring honor to the Navy and to our corps," he said. "We just do it."
Hall said he had talked with his sailors and Marines about fear. "I told them, 'Be afraid,' because I was afraid," he said. "There's nothing wrong with being afraid of things you don't know about, or you don't know whether you're going to come home to your families and friends. I think that's what held us together."
He said there's nothing that can prepare you fully to face IEDs -- but that servicemembers have adapted to the new threat in their environment.
"Overall, the sailors and Marines of that unit understood what the mission was," he said. So when they came under attack or hit an IED, they treated their wounded, then continued the mission. "The IEDs disrupted us, but it never stopped us," Hall said.
Hall said the unit's extensive training paid off in a big way. "We used a lot of the information that was provided as lessons learned and after-action reports," he said. "We studied the techniques, tactics and practices of the enemy and we tried to outguess them."
Air Force Senior Airman Michael Fletcher
Senior Airman Michael Fletcher joined the Air Force in 2004 and was deployed to Iraq as a turret gunner on a Humvee. His face was crushed and he lost his left arm and vision in his left eye when the vehicle rolled over. He has undergone numerous surgeries to rebuild his nose and face.
Fletcher said he and his wife Yolanda currently work with wounded veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. "We don't want them to feel like people don't have their backs," he said.
"We want them to know that we're there for them and that we care about what's going on," he said. "Without people taking care of me when I got here, I wouldn't have the confidence I have today to do it for other folks."
Although they lost their home in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, the couple's longer-term goal is to move to Florida to start a small business and to help raise money for the wounded veterans.
"So many people we don't know did so much for us," Fletcher said. "I don't need the recognition, but I want them to know that I'm out here and that I'm trying to help do what other folks have done for me and our country."
American Forces Press Service
July 15, 2007 – Each day, as the nation's volunteer military men and women perform their mission in Iraq and Afghanistan, they know the enemy they're up against employs uncommon tactics and weapons and that a simple misstep could cause disfigurement or death. This weekend, the military's top-ranking general paid tribute to the 26,000 troops who have been wounded and 4,000 killed facing this enemy.
On behalf of these wounded and fallen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace honored four Purple Heart recipients, one from each service, at an evening parade at the historic Marine Barracks here.
Pace said Army Cpl. Mathew Murray, Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle, Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall and Air Force Senior Airman Michael Fletcher also represent those who serve around the world protecting America's way of life.
"Another 2.4 million Americans just like them serve our nation tonight so we can ... live the lives we want to live, enjoy our families, pray where we want to pray - or not pray - and just live our lives as Americans," Pace said. "To each of you and all those you represent, thank you."
The four honorees talked with American Forces Press Service at a pre-parade reception about the camaraderie, patriotism and pride they said helps keep them and their cohorts motivated in the dangerous, uncertain lands where they're deployed.
Army Cpl. Mathew Murray
Army Cpl. Mathew Murray deployed to Iraq in August 2006 as a weapons intelligence team member. His neck was broken by an improvised explosive device in December of that year while he was performing forensic analysis near Camp Taji.
Murray said most of the wounded troops he's met are staying positive and going on with their lives. Only about 5 percent are bitter about their injuries.
"It's a very low ratio because we knew what we were doing when we signed up," he said. "There's no doubt in your mind that you could get hurt doing this job. It's not like you weren't informed of the dangers. You know what's going on. It's on the TV everywhere."
Murray said his personal philosophy about combat is simple: "When it's your time to go, it's your time to go."
"I was wearing every protective measure I could, and it still happened," he said. "There's really nothing but chance that's stopping you from getting injured."
But getting hit, he added, "is really the last thing on your mind. You see how the Iraqis live and you really want to help."
As an infantryman investigating IED sites, Murray he had a lot of contact with the local people. During his dealings with them, he said he always tried to represent the Army and the United States the best he could.
"We talked to them a lot and even with the people who were suspects, I tried to keep a professional, kind attitude toward them," he said. "I made sure they were comfortable, but still restrained the way they needed to be." In return, he said, the Iraqis were "respectful and they complied."
Asked if he'd return to Iraq, Murray replied, "in a heartbeat." He'd said he'd go back "in case something like this happened to somebody else. They might need me there to do something. It's for the other soldiers, the other troops, not so much for myself."
Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle
In November 2005, during his third deployment in Iraq, Marine Sgt. Nicholas Wahle led his squad in combat in Ramadi. During an attack on an observation post by indirect rocket-propelled-grenade and small-arms fire, he was struck in the face by shrapnel. Despite his injury, Wahle exposed himself to enemy fire as he delivered vital ammunition to all posts.
In January 2006, Wahle observed enemy activity and, anticipating an assault, assembled the reaction force and forward air controller. During the attack, he coordinated his post's response and told the forward air controller where to lay down fire. By foreseeing the attack, he enabled the post to gain fire superiority and defeat the attack.
Wahle, who received a Bronze Star Medal for the courage he demonstrated, said he was honored to represent the Marine Corps' warriors.
Asked what keeps him motivated, the five-year veteran replied, "I'd have to say 'pride.' Pride in the Marine Corps. Pride in my country, my family. It's what I do. It's just who I am."
Wahle said he planned to reenlist and apply for an officer training program. "I love the Marine Corps. I love leading Marines," he said. "I like to do good things and make a positive impact."
Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall
Navy Senior Chief David L. Hall, a medical corpsman, deployed to Iraq with the 5th Marine Regiment from August 2004 to March 2005. He was riding in a 7-ton truck in a convoy in Ramadi when an IED blast hit the vehicle, wounding him and many of the passengers.
Hall sustained multiple shrapnel fragments to his left upper arm, one that passed through his left forearm, and other shrapnel fragments to his face. Three Marines were also injured.
Although dazed by the blast and bleeding from his own wounds, Hall triaged his fellow passengers and provided emergency medical care to the worst-injured Marine. Hall bandaged the Marine's neck helped him breathe, despite limited use of his own left arm. Hall also directed the convoy corpsman in rendering aid to the other Marines.
Only after these patients had been treated and their evacuation coordinated did Hall permit himself to be treated and evacuated from the scene. Because of his quick and efficient medical care, all three wounded Marines survived, and none suffered unnecessary loss of limb or eyesight.
Hall said his chosen profession was key to the way he approached combat mentally. "I'm a Navy corpsman and I think that inherently within us, because of our training and our tradition, we do the things that bring honor to the Navy and to our corps," he said. "We just do it."
Hall said he had talked with his sailors and Marines about fear. "I told them, 'Be afraid,' because I was afraid," he said. "There's nothing wrong with being afraid of things you don't know about, or you don't know whether you're going to come home to your families and friends. I think that's what held us together."
He said there's nothing that can prepare you fully to face IEDs -- but that servicemembers have adapted to the new threat in their environment.
"Overall, the sailors and Marines of that unit understood what the mission was," he said. So when they came under attack or hit an IED, they treated their wounded, then continued the mission. "The IEDs disrupted us, but it never stopped us," Hall said.
Hall said the unit's extensive training paid off in a big way. "We used a lot of the information that was provided as lessons learned and after-action reports," he said. "We studied the techniques, tactics and practices of the enemy and we tried to outguess them."
Air Force Senior Airman Michael Fletcher
Senior Airman Michael Fletcher joined the Air Force in 2004 and was deployed to Iraq as a turret gunner on a Humvee. His face was crushed and he lost his left arm and vision in his left eye when the vehicle rolled over. He has undergone numerous surgeries to rebuild his nose and face.
Fletcher said he and his wife Yolanda currently work with wounded veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. "We don't want them to feel like people don't have their backs," he said.
"We want them to know that we're there for them and that we care about what's going on," he said. "Without people taking care of me when I got here, I wouldn't have the confidence I have today to do it for other folks."
Although they lost their home in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, the couple's longer-term goal is to move to Florida to start a small business and to help raise money for the wounded veterans.
"So many people we don't know did so much for us," Fletcher said. "I don't need the recognition, but I want them to know that I'm out here and that I'm trying to help do what other folks have done for me and our country."
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Italian Ambassador Treats Wounded Troops to Mediterranean Hospitality
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
July 15, 2007 – A busload of wounded servicemembers brought their appetites to the Italian Embassy here July 13 as the ambassador and his staff transformed the building into Washington's most authentic Italian restaurant. For nearly 200 Friday evenings since October 2003, about 75 wounded troops recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington and National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and their families have been treated to a free meal. Fran O'Brien's steakhouse initially was the main venue until the restaurant lost its lease May 2006. The weekly tradition flirted with extinction, but others have stepped up to the plate to ensure it continues.
Among them is Giovanni Castellaneta, Italy's ambassador to the United States, and wife Lila, who caught wind last May that the dinners were approaching an abrupt end. To keep the tradition alive another week, they suggested an alternate venue: the Italian Embassy.
The event was such a big success that for the second year in a row, the embassy opened its gates July 13 and welcomed 34 hungry war veterans and 38 family members.
"I heard about this association, and I think this association is doing a wonderful job," Castellaneta said. "We have respect for these young people and it is our duty to give some personal contribution."
While hosting last year's dinner, the ambassador said he witnessed support that families gave their injured loved ones, and experienced firsthand servicemembers' enduring sense of duty.
"First, I saw a great solidarity among the families. They are not alone," he said. "Second, these young men and women have a great sense of duty. They know that they serve for us, and they were unfortunate in being wounded, but they are very proud to have served not only their country, but the entire world."
As the muggy day settled into evening, servicemembers were greeted at the embassy doors by their Italian military counterparts. From there, they were ushered to tables and chairs arranged under the glass rooftop that revealed a watercolor sunset. Some troops arrived on crutches, moving in staccato steps, and others rolled across the marble floor in wheelchairs.
Italian Army Lt. Col. Enrico Rinaldi, assistant attache to the Italian Embassy, was among the soldiers who greeted the troops. Rinaldi, who wears two stars on his shoulder boards, said that despite slight differences in how the Italian and U.S. militaries operate, their similarities are more striking.
Both countries' militaries have sacrificed for their respective nations, he said, noting that he welcomed the chance to show support for the wounded U.S. troops.
"We think that all these people did a great job for their country. We are happy to stay here with them to make them comfortable tonight," Rinaldi said. "I think it's very important for them to receive this kind of hospitality; it's our Italian culture to make all the people comfortable, above all, these kind of people that made a big sacrifice for their country."
Guests dined on world-class Italian cuisine -- lasagna, prosciutto and melon and salami skewers among the offerings-all prepared by the ambassador's personal chef and served buffet-style. Tenor Sgt. 1st Class Antonio Guiliano, a member of the Army Band, presented a vocal performance in pitch-perfect acoustics. As he sang, musical notes composed by Puccini bounced off embassy walls adorned with Renaissance-era paintings and Etruscan artifacts.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Lourake, who has accompanied recovering servicemembers to the dinners since December 2003, called them an important step in wounded troops' recovery.
Lourake, who underwent an above-the-knee amputation in June 2002 and now wears a computerized artificial leg, is the first and only amputee to return to flight status. As an "amputee peer visitor," he is a role model for young men and women whose spirits have been shattered after losing a limb.
"It's fear of the unknown," he said. "They've been thrust into a world they didn't know existed."
Lourake said he often uses the Friday dinners as a "first outing," easing recent amputees back into public life.
"We do that for two reasons. One is to shelter them a little bit, so they're not amongst the public with everybody staring," he said. "The other (reason) is to have them around other people who are like them. For morale purposes and for families, being able to bond, it's just a huge benefit for them."
Shoshana Bryen is among those who has helped ensure that benefit continues. Special projects director at Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs, she recognized the importance of continuing the weekly dinners when they were about to get the ax. "The soldiers were feeling like what had become a haven for them had been taken away," she said of Fran O'Brien's closing. "And the doctors will tell you that this is a huge boost for them."
About the time the Friday night dinners' end seemed imminent, Bryen received a donation of "a couple thousand dollars"with one simple request : that the money be spent on servicemembers. She immediately handed the money to a friend who used it to revitalize the Friday night dinners.
Since then, other sponsors have stepped in and hosted the dinners. The Capitol Hill Club, Army Navy Club and the Japanese and Taiwanese embassies have hosted Friday night dinners. Because Friday is the Jewish day of rest, the Israeli Embassy hosted a Friday dinner on Sunday.
Marine Reserve Maj. Jamie Browning and his family agree that the dinners have had a major impact on his recovery.
Browning's blood vessel hemorrhaged in his brain without warning while he was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq. With half of his skull now removed, he wears a helmet to cover the inward-sloping side of his head that bears a large scar from repeated surgeries.
The July 13 evening at the Italian Embassy was the second time Browning attended the complimentary dinner, and he said he plans to participate in future events.
The 35-year-old Browning said he's overwhelmed by the network of support that exists for U.S. servicemembers. "You read stories about guys coming back from Vietnam getting spit on, and now it's just the complete opposite of that," he said. "If I had a dollar for every time somebody's come up and shaken my hand and said 'Thank You,' I could be a millionaire.
"It just amazes me how many people are out there doing things for us," he said. "I'm sure it takes a hell of a lot of work and time and money to put these dinners on every Friday night. People are giving up their personal lives to help us. It makes us feel a lot better about ourselves."
Jamie's father, Jim Browning, credits the dinners for helping to bring his son out of the shell he entered after his injury.
"He was flat, he was depressed," Jamie's father said. "But he has come out of his depression, he has bucked up. The dinners have been a life-saver for us because they're very important to him."
American Forces Press Service
July 15, 2007 – A busload of wounded servicemembers brought their appetites to the Italian Embassy here July 13 as the ambassador and his staff transformed the building into Washington's most authentic Italian restaurant. For nearly 200 Friday evenings since October 2003, about 75 wounded troops recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington and National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and their families have been treated to a free meal. Fran O'Brien's steakhouse initially was the main venue until the restaurant lost its lease May 2006. The weekly tradition flirted with extinction, but others have stepped up to the plate to ensure it continues.
Among them is Giovanni Castellaneta, Italy's ambassador to the United States, and wife Lila, who caught wind last May that the dinners were approaching an abrupt end. To keep the tradition alive another week, they suggested an alternate venue: the Italian Embassy.
The event was such a big success that for the second year in a row, the embassy opened its gates July 13 and welcomed 34 hungry war veterans and 38 family members.
"I heard about this association, and I think this association is doing a wonderful job," Castellaneta said. "We have respect for these young people and it is our duty to give some personal contribution."
While hosting last year's dinner, the ambassador said he witnessed support that families gave their injured loved ones, and experienced firsthand servicemembers' enduring sense of duty.
"First, I saw a great solidarity among the families. They are not alone," he said. "Second, these young men and women have a great sense of duty. They know that they serve for us, and they were unfortunate in being wounded, but they are very proud to have served not only their country, but the entire world."
As the muggy day settled into evening, servicemembers were greeted at the embassy doors by their Italian military counterparts. From there, they were ushered to tables and chairs arranged under the glass rooftop that revealed a watercolor sunset. Some troops arrived on crutches, moving in staccato steps, and others rolled across the marble floor in wheelchairs.
Italian Army Lt. Col. Enrico Rinaldi, assistant attache to the Italian Embassy, was among the soldiers who greeted the troops. Rinaldi, who wears two stars on his shoulder boards, said that despite slight differences in how the Italian and U.S. militaries operate, their similarities are more striking.
Both countries' militaries have sacrificed for their respective nations, he said, noting that he welcomed the chance to show support for the wounded U.S. troops.
"We think that all these people did a great job for their country. We are happy to stay here with them to make them comfortable tonight," Rinaldi said. "I think it's very important for them to receive this kind of hospitality; it's our Italian culture to make all the people comfortable, above all, these kind of people that made a big sacrifice for their country."
Guests dined on world-class Italian cuisine -- lasagna, prosciutto and melon and salami skewers among the offerings-all prepared by the ambassador's personal chef and served buffet-style. Tenor Sgt. 1st Class Antonio Guiliano, a member of the Army Band, presented a vocal performance in pitch-perfect acoustics. As he sang, musical notes composed by Puccini bounced off embassy walls adorned with Renaissance-era paintings and Etruscan artifacts.
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Lourake, who has accompanied recovering servicemembers to the dinners since December 2003, called them an important step in wounded troops' recovery.
Lourake, who underwent an above-the-knee amputation in June 2002 and now wears a computerized artificial leg, is the first and only amputee to return to flight status. As an "amputee peer visitor," he is a role model for young men and women whose spirits have been shattered after losing a limb.
"It's fear of the unknown," he said. "They've been thrust into a world they didn't know existed."
Lourake said he often uses the Friday dinners as a "first outing," easing recent amputees back into public life.
"We do that for two reasons. One is to shelter them a little bit, so they're not amongst the public with everybody staring," he said. "The other (reason) is to have them around other people who are like them. For morale purposes and for families, being able to bond, it's just a huge benefit for them."
Shoshana Bryen is among those who has helped ensure that benefit continues. Special projects director at Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs, she recognized the importance of continuing the weekly dinners when they were about to get the ax. "The soldiers were feeling like what had become a haven for them had been taken away," she said of Fran O'Brien's closing. "And the doctors will tell you that this is a huge boost for them."
About the time the Friday night dinners' end seemed imminent, Bryen received a donation of "a couple thousand dollars"with one simple request : that the money be spent on servicemembers. She immediately handed the money to a friend who used it to revitalize the Friday night dinners.
Since then, other sponsors have stepped in and hosted the dinners. The Capitol Hill Club, Army Navy Club and the Japanese and Taiwanese embassies have hosted Friday night dinners. Because Friday is the Jewish day of rest, the Israeli Embassy hosted a Friday dinner on Sunday.
Marine Reserve Maj. Jamie Browning and his family agree that the dinners have had a major impact on his recovery.
Browning's blood vessel hemorrhaged in his brain without warning while he was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq. With half of his skull now removed, he wears a helmet to cover the inward-sloping side of his head that bears a large scar from repeated surgeries.
The July 13 evening at the Italian Embassy was the second time Browning attended the complimentary dinner, and he said he plans to participate in future events.
The 35-year-old Browning said he's overwhelmed by the network of support that exists for U.S. servicemembers. "You read stories about guys coming back from Vietnam getting spit on, and now it's just the complete opposite of that," he said. "If I had a dollar for every time somebody's come up and shaken my hand and said 'Thank You,' I could be a millionaire.
"It just amazes me how many people are out there doing things for us," he said. "I'm sure it takes a hell of a lot of work and time and money to put these dinners on every Friday night. People are giving up their personal lives to help us. It makes us feel a lot better about ourselves."
Jamie's father, Jim Browning, credits the dinners for helping to bring his son out of the shell he entered after his injury.
"He was flat, he was depressed," Jamie's father said. "But he has come out of his depression, he has bucked up. The dinners have been a life-saver for us because they're very important to him."
Police from Nevada
Editor's Note: One of the authors is former USMC.
Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three officer from departments within the state of Nevada: David E. Hatch; Lake Headley; and, Jeff Kaye.
Detective David E. Hatch spent more than 27 years with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. David Hatch joined the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1969 after discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1980, as a detective, he joined the homicide section. During his time with homicide, he investigated over 400 homicides and 125 officer-involved shootings.
After retirement in 1997, David Hatch has concentrated on law enforcement related writing and teaching. He is the author of Officer-Involved Shootings and Use of Force: Practical Investigative Techniques, Second Edition (Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations).
David Hatch’s book, now in its second edition, “continues to provide sound and sober models, protocols, and procedures to handle the highly charged fall-out from officer involved shootings. Written by cops for cops, it is designed to address the needs of the agency, the rights of the employee, and the concerns of the public, and give law enforcement the policies and tools to properly investigate and document this high profile area.”
In 1957, Lake Headley joined the Clark County Sheriff’s Department (Nevada). After five years Lake Headley resigned because, as he puts it, the Department “more closely resembled a vigilante committee than a law enforcement agency.” Lake Headley launched his own Private Investigations firm and became involved in many interesting, if not extraordinary cases. Lake Headley is the author of Vegas P.I. And, the co-author of the true crime books: Contract Killer; The Court-Martial of Clayton Lonetree; and, Loud and Clear.
According to Lake Headley’s publisher, Vegas P.I is “filled with major crime cases and startling revelations, it chronicles his thirty-five perilous and action-packed years as a first-rank detective defending the disenfranchised and battling crime on the streets of Las Vegas and beyond. He takes us back to a period of gambling history when the Mob ruled the strip and he busted some of the most ingenious scams cheaters ever devised. Headley gives never-revealed details of the famous "Friars Club Cheating Case" in which celebrities such as Phil Silvers, Debbie Reynolds, Tony Martin, and Groucho Marx lost more than a million dollars in a rigged gin rummy game at the exclusive Friars Club in Beverly Hills. Headley chronicles his wild adventures with the legendary bounty hunter "Papa" Ralph Thorson.
Jeff Kaye is a sergeant with the Reno Police Department (Nevada). He has spent the majority of his career working various undercover assignments. He is considered an expert in undercover operations, street level drug enforcement and undercover operative stress syndromes. Jeff Kaye is the author of the novel Two Faces Have I
According to Jeff Kaye’s book description, “Jack Stoner is having a bad day. A psycho thief wants to kill him for being a snitch, a serial killer has set him up as a murder suspect, and he's about to cross paths with an organized crime boss, which will cause a sexy female F.B.I. Agent to enter his life and add to his troubles. On top of all this, he's having problems remembering he is really a cop named Jake Slater, who has been left undercover far too long. Follow him through Nevada's glitter towns on an emotional and action-packed tour of the dirty little secret Law Enforcement calls undercover work.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 643 police officers (representing 282 police departments) and their 1373 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three officer from departments within the state of Nevada: David E. Hatch; Lake Headley; and, Jeff Kaye.
Detective David E. Hatch spent more than 27 years with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. David Hatch joined the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1969 after discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1980, as a detective, he joined the homicide section. During his time with homicide, he investigated over 400 homicides and 125 officer-involved shootings.
After retirement in 1997, David Hatch has concentrated on law enforcement related writing and teaching. He is the author of Officer-Involved Shootings and Use of Force: Practical Investigative Techniques, Second Edition (Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations).
David Hatch’s book, now in its second edition, “continues to provide sound and sober models, protocols, and procedures to handle the highly charged fall-out from officer involved shootings. Written by cops for cops, it is designed to address the needs of the agency, the rights of the employee, and the concerns of the public, and give law enforcement the policies and tools to properly investigate and document this high profile area.”
In 1957, Lake Headley joined the Clark County Sheriff’s Department (Nevada). After five years Lake Headley resigned because, as he puts it, the Department “more closely resembled a vigilante committee than a law enforcement agency.” Lake Headley launched his own Private Investigations firm and became involved in many interesting, if not extraordinary cases. Lake Headley is the author of Vegas P.I. And, the co-author of the true crime books: Contract Killer; The Court-Martial of Clayton Lonetree; and, Loud and Clear.
According to Lake Headley’s publisher, Vegas P.I is “filled with major crime cases and startling revelations, it chronicles his thirty-five perilous and action-packed years as a first-rank detective defending the disenfranchised and battling crime on the streets of Las Vegas and beyond. He takes us back to a period of gambling history when the Mob ruled the strip and he busted some of the most ingenious scams cheaters ever devised. Headley gives never-revealed details of the famous "Friars Club Cheating Case" in which celebrities such as Phil Silvers, Debbie Reynolds, Tony Martin, and Groucho Marx lost more than a million dollars in a rigged gin rummy game at the exclusive Friars Club in Beverly Hills. Headley chronicles his wild adventures with the legendary bounty hunter "Papa" Ralph Thorson.
Jeff Kaye is a sergeant with the Reno Police Department (Nevada). He has spent the majority of his career working various undercover assignments. He is considered an expert in undercover operations, street level drug enforcement and undercover operative stress syndromes. Jeff Kaye is the author of the novel Two Faces Have I
According to Jeff Kaye’s book description, “Jack Stoner is having a bad day. A psycho thief wants to kill him for being a snitch, a serial killer has set him up as a murder suspect, and he's about to cross paths with an organized crime boss, which will cause a sexy female F.B.I. Agent to enter his life and add to his troubles. On top of all this, he's having problems remembering he is really a cop named Jake Slater, who has been left undercover far too long. Follow him through Nevada's glitter towns on an emotional and action-packed tour of the dirty little secret Law Enforcement calls undercover work.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 643 police officers (representing 282 police departments) and their 1373 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Las Vegas Cops
Editor's Note: One of the authors is a former U.S. Air Force servicemember.
Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three police officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department: Kim Thomas, Gordon Yach and Harry Fagel.
Kim Thomas is a detective with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, currently assigned to the forgery detail. His other investigative assignments included a joint operation with the FBI targeting an organized crime group of Eastern Europeans who defrauded $34 million from stolen credit cards. Kim Thomas, a former U.S. Air Force enlistee has also been a construction worker, limosine driver and worked in executive protection. In 1992, at the age of 36, Kim Thomas entered the police academy. A sixth-degree black belt in Katai-te Ryu karate, Kim Thomas scored 100 percent on the Metro physical test even though he was one of the older members of his police academy class.
Kim Thomas is the author of the novel Vegas: One Cop’s Journey. According to the book description, “Cam Madden had a good job and a carefree bachelor lifestyle when he impulsively tried out for the police academy of the Las Vegas PD. Now that he's mastered the theories of law enforcement his education in its realities begins with field training and an ugly suicide call. Learning the lessons of the street leaves scars on Cam's ego, but it's even rougher on his off-duty relationships with women. It doesn't matter until he falls for Karrie Mae, a paramedic, whereupon making it work becomes all important. Their romance grows in a world of burglars, bums, purse snatchers, drug dealers, and homicidal idiots, no two of them alike but each to be dealt with according to endless regulations, some of which cannot work without being severely bent.”
Gordon Yach is a 27 year veteran of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Office. During his career, he worked patrol, detectives, vice, narcotics and intelligence. He rose through the ranks and eventually retired as the Director of the Detention Services Division. He is the author of Las Vegas... a Cops View Of... the Glamour, Glitz, Graft, Good & Evil of Sin City.
Harry Fagel has lived in Las Vegas for 30 years. He is a Police Officer with Las Vegas Metropolitan police Department. According to Harry, he has also been a “bartender, a black jack dealer, a college student, and a madman.” Harry Fagel is the author of Street Talk. According to the book description, “Take a ride with Officer Harry Fagel through the streets of Las Vegas as he weaves his black and white from glass - littered alleys to high end mega-resorts pausing along the way to show you a world from the emotionally charged, highly visual perception of a street cop gone poet or maybe poet gone street cop.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 640 police officers (representing 281 police departments) and their 1367 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three police officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department: Kim Thomas, Gordon Yach and Harry Fagel.
Kim Thomas is a detective with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, currently assigned to the forgery detail. His other investigative assignments included a joint operation with the FBI targeting an organized crime group of Eastern Europeans who defrauded $34 million from stolen credit cards. Kim Thomas, a former U.S. Air Force enlistee has also been a construction worker, limosine driver and worked in executive protection. In 1992, at the age of 36, Kim Thomas entered the police academy. A sixth-degree black belt in Katai-te Ryu karate, Kim Thomas scored 100 percent on the Metro physical test even though he was one of the older members of his police academy class.
Kim Thomas is the author of the novel Vegas: One Cop’s Journey. According to the book description, “Cam Madden had a good job and a carefree bachelor lifestyle when he impulsively tried out for the police academy of the Las Vegas PD. Now that he's mastered the theories of law enforcement his education in its realities begins with field training and an ugly suicide call. Learning the lessons of the street leaves scars on Cam's ego, but it's even rougher on his off-duty relationships with women. It doesn't matter until he falls for Karrie Mae, a paramedic, whereupon making it work becomes all important. Their romance grows in a world of burglars, bums, purse snatchers, drug dealers, and homicidal idiots, no two of them alike but each to be dealt with according to endless regulations, some of which cannot work without being severely bent.”
Gordon Yach is a 27 year veteran of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Office. During his career, he worked patrol, detectives, vice, narcotics and intelligence. He rose through the ranks and eventually retired as the Director of the Detention Services Division. He is the author of Las Vegas... a Cops View Of... the Glamour, Glitz, Graft, Good & Evil of Sin City.
Harry Fagel has lived in Las Vegas for 30 years. He is a Police Officer with Las Vegas Metropolitan police Department. According to Harry, he has also been a “bartender, a black jack dealer, a college student, and a madman.” Harry Fagel is the author of Street Talk. According to the book description, “Take a ride with Officer Harry Fagel through the streets of Las Vegas as he weaves his black and white from glass - littered alleys to high end mega-resorts pausing along the way to show you a world from the emotionally charged, highly visual perception of a street cop gone poet or maybe poet gone street cop.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 640 police officers (representing 281 police departments) and their 1367 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Military Books
Military-Writers.com is a website committed to listing military personnel who have authored books. The website added authors who served in World War II and Vietnam.
Robert B. Heinen was a police officer for the Kansas City Police Department (Missouri) from 1946 to 1974. He retired at the rank of Captain. At the beginning of World War II a then 17 year old Robert Heinen enlisted the United States Navy. He served four years in both the Atlantic and Pacific. Six months after the war he joined the Kansas City Police Department. He is published his autobiography The Battle Behind the Badge in 1997.
According to one reader, “The Battle Behind the Badge takes you on the streets of Kansas City with Captain Heinen as your partner. BEWARE! On your shift you'll not only encounter dangerous street thugs, but high-powered organized crime figures. When you return to the station house to file your reports, be prepared to battle corrupt police officials and egocentric city hall politicians. "The Battle Behind the Badge" is an excellent hardball account of Kansas City during a time when it was difficult to tell who the bad guy was. Captain Heinen is an honest cop who pays for his integrity by being yo-yoed up and down the ranks. He is Kansas City's "Serpico." This is a very good read that took a lot of guts to write.”
In 1966, James R. Kelly served one tour of duty in Vietnam with the United States Marine Corps. James Kelly received his BS degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. In 1971, he joined the ranks of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics; becoming one of the organization's first agents. James Kelly retired from the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics 1995. He is the author of two books: Prescription for Murder and Casting Alpha: Amtracs in Vietnam.
Casting Alpha: Amtracs in Vietnam, “depicts the daily life of U.S. Marine Corps amtrac crewmen during the Vietnam War and the continuing anxiety, as a result of enemy land mines, referred to as the big wait.” James Kelly served with A Company, 3rd Amtracs, 1966-67.
John "Jack" Miller applied his first career in Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations to his second career of Casino Games and their protection. Jack was a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) conducting investigations of felony crimes. These investigations also included counter-intelligence and counter-espionage investigations.
After retiring from the military, he joined the Clark County District Attorneys office as a Special Investigator of "white collar" and conspiratorial crimes. He worked with undercover teams from the local Police and the FBI conducting burglary stings. He then joined the Nevada State Gaming Control Board (GCB) as an Enforcement Agent. He was certified by Nevada State and Federal Courts as an Expert witness during trials of gambling cheats.
John “Jack” Miller is the author of Cold War Warrior, All Crooks Welcome and Master Cheat! According to the book description of the true story, All Crooks Welcome, “the Las Vegas police are plagued with burglaries. Two detectives devise an ingenious scheme to combat the thieves and burglars. Pose as fences and buy the evidence from the crooks. With the help of the District Attorney’s office and the FBI, the sting is on. Join with the undercover law enforcement personnel as they solve the problems associated with a scheme never tried before. Be there as the crooks arrive with their ill-gotten gains. Enjoy the wrap-up party where the thieves expect one thing and get another.”
Military-Writers.com currently lists 28 current or former military members and their 59 books.
Robert B. Heinen was a police officer for the Kansas City Police Department (Missouri) from 1946 to 1974. He retired at the rank of Captain. At the beginning of World War II a then 17 year old Robert Heinen enlisted the United States Navy. He served four years in both the Atlantic and Pacific. Six months after the war he joined the Kansas City Police Department. He is published his autobiography The Battle Behind the Badge in 1997.
According to one reader, “The Battle Behind the Badge takes you on the streets of Kansas City with Captain Heinen as your partner. BEWARE! On your shift you'll not only encounter dangerous street thugs, but high-powered organized crime figures. When you return to the station house to file your reports, be prepared to battle corrupt police officials and egocentric city hall politicians. "The Battle Behind the Badge" is an excellent hardball account of Kansas City during a time when it was difficult to tell who the bad guy was. Captain Heinen is an honest cop who pays for his integrity by being yo-yoed up and down the ranks. He is Kansas City's "Serpico." This is a very good read that took a lot of guts to write.”
In 1966, James R. Kelly served one tour of duty in Vietnam with the United States Marine Corps. James Kelly received his BS degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. In 1971, he joined the ranks of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics; becoming one of the organization's first agents. James Kelly retired from the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics 1995. He is the author of two books: Prescription for Murder and Casting Alpha: Amtracs in Vietnam.
Casting Alpha: Amtracs in Vietnam, “depicts the daily life of U.S. Marine Corps amtrac crewmen during the Vietnam War and the continuing anxiety, as a result of enemy land mines, referred to as the big wait.” James Kelly served with A Company, 3rd Amtracs, 1966-67.
John "Jack" Miller applied his first career in Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations to his second career of Casino Games and their protection. Jack was a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) conducting investigations of felony crimes. These investigations also included counter-intelligence and counter-espionage investigations.
After retiring from the military, he joined the Clark County District Attorneys office as a Special Investigator of "white collar" and conspiratorial crimes. He worked with undercover teams from the local Police and the FBI conducting burglary stings. He then joined the Nevada State Gaming Control Board (GCB) as an Enforcement Agent. He was certified by Nevada State and Federal Courts as an Expert witness during trials of gambling cheats.
John “Jack” Miller is the author of Cold War Warrior, All Crooks Welcome and Master Cheat! According to the book description of the true story, All Crooks Welcome, “the Las Vegas police are plagued with burglaries. Two detectives devise an ingenious scheme to combat the thieves and burglars. Pose as fences and buy the evidence from the crooks. With the help of the District Attorney’s office and the FBI, the sting is on. Join with the undercover law enforcement personnel as they solve the problems associated with a scheme never tried before. Be there as the crooks arrive with their ill-gotten gains. Enjoy the wrap-up party where the thieves expect one thing and get another.”
Military-Writers.com currently lists 28 current or former military members and their 59 books.
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