By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - Texas and Louisiana National Guard troops are standing by to assist residents affected by strong winds, heavy rains and flooding caused by Hurricane Humberto, state military officials said today. The Texas National Guard has staged 150 personnel and 50 vehicles to respond to local authorities' needs if requested, said Army Lt. Col. Daniel Quick, who is posted at an emergency operations center in Houston.
"We've not had to respond at this point," Quick said. "The rain in the area where we have people is less than we'd expected."
The Category 1 storm crashed ashore early today in southeastern Texas. Its 80 mph winds and sheets of rain caused power outages in several Texas coastal communities.
"There was some wind-related power outages, but localized," Quick said. "It is mainly excessive rain, causing flooding."
The storm made landfall just east of Galveston, Texas, and then veered northeastward toward Louisiana, Quick said. Texas emergency-response authorities have been communicating with their Louisiana counterparts, he noted.
Louisiana seemed poised to take "the brunt of the hit" from Humberto, Quick said, noting that state is being pelted by wind-driven heavy rains.
Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco has declared a state of emergency, and about 300 of that state's Guard troops are on standby to respond to storm-caused emergencies, if called upon by local authorities, Louisiana Army National Guard spokeswoman Capt. Taysha P. Deaton reported today from Lafayette, La.
"We're having a lot of rain. It's just pouring," Deaton said.
Friday, September 14, 2007
New Amputee Care Center Opens at Walter Reed
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - Army National Guard Spc. Marco Robledo wants to go home to Arkansas in November standing on his own two feet. A roadside bomb claimed the combat engineer's left leg and arm in Iraq in May. Since then, he has been recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. Every day he walks slowly around an indoor track attached to a harness. A lanyard connects the harness to a trolley locked into an aluminum track mounted to the ceiling. It makes a slow dragging sound as he steps forward with his prosthetic leg.
And so it slowly goes for Robledo -- step, drag, step, drag. He's making progress thanks, in part, to this one-of-a-kind walking system at Walter Reed's new Military Advanced Training Center.
The 31,000-square-foot, $10 million center opens today two months early and offers some of the most state-of-the-art care found anywhere in the world, officials said.
Patients began using parts of the facility, such as the indoor track and the Solo-Step system used by Robledo, last week.
The facility combines office and counseling space with workout facilities, data gathering, high-tech simulators, and even a family lounge with a full kitchen. It is designed to bring together all the hospital's elements of advanced amputee care, but much of it also will benefit other patients, such as those suffering from traumatic brain injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder.
The hospital's gait lab has nearly doubled its size in the new building. The lab electronically records patients' movements while wearing prosthetic devices to give feedback to the patients and specialists on rehabilitation efforts. It can now record movements from 23 camera angles, up from eight, and has six force plates, up from four, that measure pressure put on the ground as steps are taken. It also added a treadmill built into the floor that will allow specialists, for the first time, to collect force plate data from soldiers while running.
"This lab is going to allow us to do so much more on the research and clinical side than we were able to do before," Brian Baum, a biomechanical engineer.
Capturing the data allows for more focused and faster rehabilitation for soldiers, he said.
"We can give feedback to the clinicians to help expedite their rehabilitation. So, if the patient's goal is to return to duty, we now have a more solid baseline," he said. "We can now look at a broader picture and really pinpoint rehabilitation from multiple angles, rather than just looking at walking. Returning to duty is a lot more than walking. Returning to a functional life is also a lot more than walking."
One of only three in the world, a high-tech computer-assisted rehabilitation environment was added to the center to help amputee soldiers adapt to real-life scenarios.
In front of a large projection screen, soldiers stand on an elevated, multi-axis platform that rocks and sways as the computer-driven scenario changes. In one scenario, the patients stand as if in a boat as it moves through a course. In other scenarios, patients are required to raise their hands while moving to hit objects that appear to be flying by. This helps patients become more stable and confident using their prosthetic devices.
An indoor running track encircles "upper-extremities" workout areas. One half of the top floor is open to allow soldiers to look down on others using the lower-extremities workout equipment. A climbing wall rises from the lower level, and climbing ropes and a rappelling wall allow patients to develop overhead skills and confidence. Windows allow sunlight to stream throughout.
Most of the equipment is standard fitness-center equipment to allow soldiers to transition from the center to a gym in their hometown or Army installation with no adjustment to their workouts, officials said.
Also among the treatment rooms is a weapons simulator to get soldiers back to shooting, a vehicle simulator to help them relearn to drive using prostheses, and areas that offer practice walking on uneven terrain features, such as sand, gravel and cobblestone.
Counseling offices offer a private view of the workout areas through two-way mirrored glass. Psychologists, social workers, benefits counselors, and case managers all have office spaces, offering a virtual one-stop shop for amputee care at the clinic.
Officials said that initial amputee care will still be managed in the main hospital clinics. The new center is for those who are in the more advanced stages of rehabilitation. It is designed to transition patients from their basic recovery to either returning home or to duty, they said.
The building was funded in September 2004, but building plans were nearly nixed after the Base Realignment and Closure Commission set Walter Reed to close in 2011. But after officials considered alternatives and found that the center needed to be built and quickly, construction began in November 2006 using a fast-track system. This allowed designers to apportion the plans and deliver just what the builders needed to start. To start, they delivered the designs that allowed excavation to start, then the structural designs to order the steel, and so forth.
This also allowed for changes to be made along the way that would better benefit patients, said Elihu P. Hirsch, project manager for the Army Corps of Engineers. For example, the Solo-Step used by Robledo was not in the original proposal, he said.
Hirsch said the visual reminders of those who would be using the facility helped to motivate the crews. Only steps away from the building is the helipad where wounded soldiers are delivered. Patients also walk around the hospital and the construction site using their prostheses.
"All along, you have the tangible reminder of why you're building the facility, and that gave everybody the added incentive to increase production," Hirsch said. "Everybody who worked on the project has been walking away with great feelings of satisfaction."
As of June, the hospital has treated almost 500 limb-loss patients from operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. It serves an average of about 100 daily. Stays for rehabilitation range from eight months to two years.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - Army National Guard Spc. Marco Robledo wants to go home to Arkansas in November standing on his own two feet. A roadside bomb claimed the combat engineer's left leg and arm in Iraq in May. Since then, he has been recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. Every day he walks slowly around an indoor track attached to a harness. A lanyard connects the harness to a trolley locked into an aluminum track mounted to the ceiling. It makes a slow dragging sound as he steps forward with his prosthetic leg.
And so it slowly goes for Robledo -- step, drag, step, drag. He's making progress thanks, in part, to this one-of-a-kind walking system at Walter Reed's new Military Advanced Training Center.
The 31,000-square-foot, $10 million center opens today two months early and offers some of the most state-of-the-art care found anywhere in the world, officials said.
Patients began using parts of the facility, such as the indoor track and the Solo-Step system used by Robledo, last week.
The facility combines office and counseling space with workout facilities, data gathering, high-tech simulators, and even a family lounge with a full kitchen. It is designed to bring together all the hospital's elements of advanced amputee care, but much of it also will benefit other patients, such as those suffering from traumatic brain injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder.
The hospital's gait lab has nearly doubled its size in the new building. The lab electronically records patients' movements while wearing prosthetic devices to give feedback to the patients and specialists on rehabilitation efforts. It can now record movements from 23 camera angles, up from eight, and has six force plates, up from four, that measure pressure put on the ground as steps are taken. It also added a treadmill built into the floor that will allow specialists, for the first time, to collect force plate data from soldiers while running.
"This lab is going to allow us to do so much more on the research and clinical side than we were able to do before," Brian Baum, a biomechanical engineer.
Capturing the data allows for more focused and faster rehabilitation for soldiers, he said.
"We can give feedback to the clinicians to help expedite their rehabilitation. So, if the patient's goal is to return to duty, we now have a more solid baseline," he said. "We can now look at a broader picture and really pinpoint rehabilitation from multiple angles, rather than just looking at walking. Returning to duty is a lot more than walking. Returning to a functional life is also a lot more than walking."
One of only three in the world, a high-tech computer-assisted rehabilitation environment was added to the center to help amputee soldiers adapt to real-life scenarios.
In front of a large projection screen, soldiers stand on an elevated, multi-axis platform that rocks and sways as the computer-driven scenario changes. In one scenario, the patients stand as if in a boat as it moves through a course. In other scenarios, patients are required to raise their hands while moving to hit objects that appear to be flying by. This helps patients become more stable and confident using their prosthetic devices.
An indoor running track encircles "upper-extremities" workout areas. One half of the top floor is open to allow soldiers to look down on others using the lower-extremities workout equipment. A climbing wall rises from the lower level, and climbing ropes and a rappelling wall allow patients to develop overhead skills and confidence. Windows allow sunlight to stream throughout.
Most of the equipment is standard fitness-center equipment to allow soldiers to transition from the center to a gym in their hometown or Army installation with no adjustment to their workouts, officials said.
Also among the treatment rooms is a weapons simulator to get soldiers back to shooting, a vehicle simulator to help them relearn to drive using prostheses, and areas that offer practice walking on uneven terrain features, such as sand, gravel and cobblestone.
Counseling offices offer a private view of the workout areas through two-way mirrored glass. Psychologists, social workers, benefits counselors, and case managers all have office spaces, offering a virtual one-stop shop for amputee care at the clinic.
Officials said that initial amputee care will still be managed in the main hospital clinics. The new center is for those who are in the more advanced stages of rehabilitation. It is designed to transition patients from their basic recovery to either returning home or to duty, they said.
The building was funded in September 2004, but building plans were nearly nixed after the Base Realignment and Closure Commission set Walter Reed to close in 2011. But after officials considered alternatives and found that the center needed to be built and quickly, construction began in November 2006 using a fast-track system. This allowed designers to apportion the plans and deliver just what the builders needed to start. To start, they delivered the designs that allowed excavation to start, then the structural designs to order the steel, and so forth.
This also allowed for changes to be made along the way that would better benefit patients, said Elihu P. Hirsch, project manager for the Army Corps of Engineers. For example, the Solo-Step used by Robledo was not in the original proposal, he said.
Hirsch said the visual reminders of those who would be using the facility helped to motivate the crews. Only steps away from the building is the helipad where wounded soldiers are delivered. Patients also walk around the hospital and the construction site using their prostheses.
"All along, you have the tangible reminder of why you're building the facility, and that gave everybody the added incentive to increase production," Hirsch said. "Everybody who worked on the project has been walking away with great feelings of satisfaction."
As of June, the hospital has treated almost 500 limb-loss patients from operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. It serves an average of about 100 daily. Stays for rehabilitation range from eight months to two years.
DoD Holds Information Forum for Wearable Power Prize Competition
A public information forum regarding the first public competition to be sponsored by the director, defense research and engineering will be held Friday, Sept. 21, 2007, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. EDT at the Federal Gateway Conference Center, 1100 New Jersey Ave., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20003.
The public will be briefed by the wearable power prize program managers on the details of the competition, objectives, rules, procedures, intent to compete notification, and the current plan for the Fall 2008 competition week. First prize for the wearable power competition will be awarded $1 million.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the U.S. Army Program Manager Soldier Warrior and the U.S. Marine Corps Program Executive Officer for Expeditionary Power offices to provide a better understanding of current warfighter power requirements and battery burden.
A list of acceptable battery chemistries and fuels for use in competition will be available and all presentations will be posted on the Web site: http://www.dod.mil/ddre/prize/topic.html.
This prize program seeks to elicit innovative solutions from a broad range of sources to provide superior technical solutions to the individual energy needs of servicemembers in the field. DoD seeks a wearable power system that lasts four days and significantly reduces the weight of the battery load typically carried by those in the field.
Media and the public are invited to attend and must register by Monday, Sept.17 at http://www.dod.mil/ddre/prize/topic_wearpwr_forum.html#1.
The public will be briefed by the wearable power prize program managers on the details of the competition, objectives, rules, procedures, intent to compete notification, and the current plan for the Fall 2008 competition week. First prize for the wearable power competition will be awarded $1 million.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the U.S. Army Program Manager Soldier Warrior and the U.S. Marine Corps Program Executive Officer for Expeditionary Power offices to provide a better understanding of current warfighter power requirements and battery burden.
A list of acceptable battery chemistries and fuels for use in competition will be available and all presentations will be posted on the Web site: http://www.dod.mil/ddre/prize/topic.html.
This prize program seeks to elicit innovative solutions from a broad range of sources to provide superior technical solutions to the individual energy needs of servicemembers in the field. DoD seeks a wearable power system that lasts four days and significantly reduces the weight of the battery load typically carried by those in the field.
Media and the public are invited to attend and must register by Monday, Sept.17 at http://www.dod.mil/ddre/prize/topic_wearpwr_forum.html#1.
Troops Invited to Submit Original Songs
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - The Dallas Songwriters Association is inviting aspiring songwriters who happen to wear a military uniform to enter their original tunes in its 2007/2008 "Songs from the Soul of Service" contest. "We've ramped up a little bit better technology this time so we can facilitate everything online," William Brown, the program's director, said of this second competition. "We have it set up for them to upload (submissions) directly to Broadjam music service."
Broadjam provides Web-based promotional tools and services for independent musicians, the music industry and fans around the world, according to the company's Web site.
He said he hopes this, and earlier publicity, will result in a bigger turnout than the last contest.
"We're hoping to double (the number of entries)," Brown said. "We got about 400 submissions last year (and) I'm hoping for 800.
The association also will accept cassette tapes or CDs via "snail mail" as well, he said. While e-mail is not a primary entry method, Brown said the group is flexible.
"E-mail is not an official entry method, but, if we get them, we take them," Brown said.
Servicemembers can submit their songs or those of an immediate family member into one of seven categories including country, world, instrumental, novelty, hip hop, pop or inspirational. Military personnel also may submit a song posthumously on behalf of an immediate family member or a fallen comrade.
Servicemembers are encouraged to follow their hearts when it comes to the songs.
"In the last contest, we had (a winning entry that) had some language on it that wasn't quite family friendly. So we had to kind of work with (the writer) on a kind of a radio edit of that one," he said. "We don't want to impose that kind of a thing on somebody at the beginning. If it gets to the end and it turns out to be ... a winning song, if there are things we need to do, we'll do that at the end."
Entries, which are currently being accepted, must be received no later than Dec. 31. Winners from each category will be notified in February, according the contest Web site. A grand prize winner will be selected from the category winners.
The grand-prize winner will receive a weekend stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas, as well as a premium Broadjam membership, Brown said.
"In addition to their premium services that they're making available as a prize ... they give you a free six-month basic membership," he said. "Broadjam is ... a great service for the aspiring musician and performer."
Category Winners will be included on a professionally produced compilation CD of the best songs from the contest. Other prizes will be announced throughout the contest.
For more information, and complete contest rules, please visit the Songs from the Soul of Service Web site.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - The Dallas Songwriters Association is inviting aspiring songwriters who happen to wear a military uniform to enter their original tunes in its 2007/2008 "Songs from the Soul of Service" contest. "We've ramped up a little bit better technology this time so we can facilitate everything online," William Brown, the program's director, said of this second competition. "We have it set up for them to upload (submissions) directly to Broadjam music service."
Broadjam provides Web-based promotional tools and services for independent musicians, the music industry and fans around the world, according to the company's Web site.
He said he hopes this, and earlier publicity, will result in a bigger turnout than the last contest.
"We're hoping to double (the number of entries)," Brown said. "We got about 400 submissions last year (and) I'm hoping for 800.
The association also will accept cassette tapes or CDs via "snail mail" as well, he said. While e-mail is not a primary entry method, Brown said the group is flexible.
"E-mail is not an official entry method, but, if we get them, we take them," Brown said.
Servicemembers can submit their songs or those of an immediate family member into one of seven categories including country, world, instrumental, novelty, hip hop, pop or inspirational. Military personnel also may submit a song posthumously on behalf of an immediate family member or a fallen comrade.
Servicemembers are encouraged to follow their hearts when it comes to the songs.
"In the last contest, we had (a winning entry that) had some language on it that wasn't quite family friendly. So we had to kind of work with (the writer) on a kind of a radio edit of that one," he said. "We don't want to impose that kind of a thing on somebody at the beginning. If it gets to the end and it turns out to be ... a winning song, if there are things we need to do, we'll do that at the end."
Entries, which are currently being accepted, must be received no later than Dec. 31. Winners from each category will be notified in February, according the contest Web site. A grand prize winner will be selected from the category winners.
The grand-prize winner will receive a weekend stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas, as well as a premium Broadjam membership, Brown said.
"In addition to their premium services that they're making available as a prize ... they give you a free six-month basic membership," he said. "Broadjam is ... a great service for the aspiring musician and performer."
Category Winners will be included on a professionally produced compilation CD of the best songs from the contest. Other prizes will be announced throughout the contest.
For more information, and complete contest rules, please visit the Songs from the Soul of Service Web site.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Colombian President, Armed Forces Honor Chairman
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - Colombia's president and top military leaders turned out here today to honor and bid farewell to America's top ranking general. Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, traveled from Washington to Simon Bolivar naval base to attend an award ceremony and a luncheon with the chiefs of Colombia's armed forces.
During the visit, the chairman, who is due to retire on Oct. 1 after a 40-year military career, also met with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe Velez for about 40 minutes in a distinguished visitor lounge at Rafael Nunez Airport.
Pace forged strong ties with military officials here while serving as commander of U.S. Southern Command from 2000 to 2001, an official traveling with the chairman said. During his year-long assignment, the official noted, Pace visited Colombia 13 times.
During the award ceremony, Colombian Defense Minister Juan Manuel Santos told Pace he'd become a good friend.
"We are very grateful for everything you have done for us," Santos said. "As one of us, you and your wife, Lynne, can come to Colombia any day, and we will receive you with our arms open, but particularly, with our hearts open."
The defense minister awarded Pace the Cross of Boyaca, the highest military award that can be conferred on a Colombian or foreign officer. The award gives the recipient the same privileges as the president or ex-president. The minister also awarded Pace the Adm. Padilla Meritorious Service Medal, the highest decoration the military can confer on military officers of admiral rank or higher.
At a news conference following the ceremony, Pace said that while he was grateful for the honors, he felt "strange" wearing the prestigious Colombian medals and light blue and white striped sash.
"I accept these awards on behalf of all the U.S. military that have had the incredible honor to serve side by side here," he told Gen. Freddy Padilla, commander of the military forces of Colombia and the chiefs of the army, navy, air force and other military officials.
As is the norm for the veteran troop leader, Pace also took time out to praise the men and women who serve in Colombia's armed forces. He noted that the more than 200 Colombian sailors that participated in the nearly hour-long ceremony represented all who serve their nation.
Despite a seasonal downpour during the Colombian minister's address, the assembled troops stood firm.
"When it started to rain," Pace said, "they did not flinch, and I think that example on the parade field is indicative of all Colombia's armed forces. Whether it is rain or narcoterrorists, the Colombian armed forces do not flinch, do not blink; they stand their ground."
Pace went on to say that the United States and Colombia, the two oldest democracies in the hemisphere, "have always been there for each other."
"There is no doubt in my mind that that friendship and that partnership will continue," he said. "I will always seek to find ways to support you."
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 13, 2007 - Colombia's president and top military leaders turned out here today to honor and bid farewell to America's top ranking general. Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, traveled from Washington to Simon Bolivar naval base to attend an award ceremony and a luncheon with the chiefs of Colombia's armed forces.
During the visit, the chairman, who is due to retire on Oct. 1 after a 40-year military career, also met with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe Velez for about 40 minutes in a distinguished visitor lounge at Rafael Nunez Airport.
Pace forged strong ties with military officials here while serving as commander of U.S. Southern Command from 2000 to 2001, an official traveling with the chairman said. During his year-long assignment, the official noted, Pace visited Colombia 13 times.
During the award ceremony, Colombian Defense Minister Juan Manuel Santos told Pace he'd become a good friend.
"We are very grateful for everything you have done for us," Santos said. "As one of us, you and your wife, Lynne, can come to Colombia any day, and we will receive you with our arms open, but particularly, with our hearts open."
The defense minister awarded Pace the Cross of Boyaca, the highest military award that can be conferred on a Colombian or foreign officer. The award gives the recipient the same privileges as the president or ex-president. The minister also awarded Pace the Adm. Padilla Meritorious Service Medal, the highest decoration the military can confer on military officers of admiral rank or higher.
At a news conference following the ceremony, Pace said that while he was grateful for the honors, he felt "strange" wearing the prestigious Colombian medals and light blue and white striped sash.
"I accept these awards on behalf of all the U.S. military that have had the incredible honor to serve side by side here," he told Gen. Freddy Padilla, commander of the military forces of Colombia and the chiefs of the army, navy, air force and other military officials.
As is the norm for the veteran troop leader, Pace also took time out to praise the men and women who serve in Colombia's armed forces. He noted that the more than 200 Colombian sailors that participated in the nearly hour-long ceremony represented all who serve their nation.
Despite a seasonal downpour during the Colombian minister's address, the assembled troops stood firm.
"When it started to rain," Pace said, "they did not flinch, and I think that example on the parade field is indicative of all Colombia's armed forces. Whether it is rain or narcoterrorists, the Colombian armed forces do not flinch, do not blink; they stand their ground."
Pace went on to say that the United States and Colombia, the two oldest democracies in the hemisphere, "have always been there for each other."
"There is no doubt in my mind that that friendship and that partnership will continue," he said. "I will always seek to find ways to support you."
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Walk Offers Family Chance to Reflect, Remember
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - The more than 1,000 people who walked in the second annual Freedom Walk here yesterday did so to remember, reflect and commemorate those who were killed in the terrorist attacks six years ago. For one family, however, the event held a deeper significance.
"(We're walking) to (honor) the folks that were killed in 9/11 and for my son, Daniel McVicker," Mark McVicker said during the walk. "He was in the Marine Corps, and he was killed over in al Qaim (Iraq) on Oct. 6, 2005. So we're here in his honor as well as in remembrance of 9/11."
Freedom has new meaning for McVicker since the death of his 20-year-old son, who held the rank of lance corporal. It's one of the most important things Americans have, he said.
"I remember when they told us that he was killed. I remember going through town, and I was so mad because life was going on. I kept thinking, 'Why? Don't you people know my son is dead?'" McVicker said, fighting back tears.
Then, he said, he realized that this was exactly what his son had been fighting for. "We need to value our lives and what is in this country and never take it for granted what this freedom has cost," he told the crowd at the conclusion of the walk.
Daniel McVicker knew that, said Rick Mirenzi, who also spoke to the crowd. Mirenzi is the president of the Veteran Connection, a Canton, Ohio-based veterans group.
"I remember Mark (McVicker) telling me Danny came in his room one day and said, 'I enlisted because I want to protect America,'" he said. "That's the story that I hear all the time when we talk to Gold Star families (who have lost loved ones in service to their country)."
It's also the story he wishes terrorist leader Osama bin Laden could hear.
"If I could, ... I would introduce him to 3,600 Gold Star families and ... have him listen to the stories of these sons and daughters who gave their lives, not because they were drafted, but because they stepped up," he said. "I would take him to (the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.) and introduce him to the thousands of soldiers that come back from Iraq and they're hurt but they want to get better quickly so they can go back.
"Then I would sit down with bin Laden and I'd look him straight in the eye and say, 'That's why America is what it is. It isn't about two buildings. It's the people ... in small cities across this country," Mirenzi said.
He'd also introduce him to Colton Lockner, 10, who he called the "real deal." The fifth-grader organized Sebring's two Freedom Walks. "He gets it," Mirenzi said.
That's something Robyn Lockner, Colton's mom, already knew.
"If you have a veteran's hat on, he's coming up to you," she said of Colton. "If you have a uniform on, he's coming up to you and he's going to thank you for your service. It's just coming from the heart."
And he comes by that naturally, she said. Both of his grandfathers served in the military. His Uncle Brian, a staff sergeant in the Ohio National Guard, has served two tours in Iraq and will say goodbye to his wife when she deploys in January.
"He's just used to it," Robyn said of her son.
But planning something as huge as a Freedom Walk still makes him nervous, Colton said. This year was a bit easier than last, though, because he'd already made all the necessary contacts.
He tackled the project again, first and foremost, out of his deep-seated desire to honor servicemembers past and present and to commemorate the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, but he also had some encouragement.
"A lot of people were saying they hoped I had it again," Colton said. "I've learned to do this every year because people love it."
It also keeps him grounded to do something that gives so much back to so many, his mother said. Though she added with a laugh that he's still the same down-to-earth "bratty" child he's always been.
Colton's second annual Freedom Walk and the 250-plus walks around the country paralleled the third annual national America Supports You Freedom Walk held in Washington on Sept. 9. America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - The more than 1,000 people who walked in the second annual Freedom Walk here yesterday did so to remember, reflect and commemorate those who were killed in the terrorist attacks six years ago. For one family, however, the event held a deeper significance.
"(We're walking) to (honor) the folks that were killed in 9/11 and for my son, Daniel McVicker," Mark McVicker said during the walk. "He was in the Marine Corps, and he was killed over in al Qaim (Iraq) on Oct. 6, 2005. So we're here in his honor as well as in remembrance of 9/11."
Freedom has new meaning for McVicker since the death of his 20-year-old son, who held the rank of lance corporal. It's one of the most important things Americans have, he said.
"I remember when they told us that he was killed. I remember going through town, and I was so mad because life was going on. I kept thinking, 'Why? Don't you people know my son is dead?'" McVicker said, fighting back tears.
Then, he said, he realized that this was exactly what his son had been fighting for. "We need to value our lives and what is in this country and never take it for granted what this freedom has cost," he told the crowd at the conclusion of the walk.
Daniel McVicker knew that, said Rick Mirenzi, who also spoke to the crowd. Mirenzi is the president of the Veteran Connection, a Canton, Ohio-based veterans group.
"I remember Mark (McVicker) telling me Danny came in his room one day and said, 'I enlisted because I want to protect America,'" he said. "That's the story that I hear all the time when we talk to Gold Star families (who have lost loved ones in service to their country)."
It's also the story he wishes terrorist leader Osama bin Laden could hear.
"If I could, ... I would introduce him to 3,600 Gold Star families and ... have him listen to the stories of these sons and daughters who gave their lives, not because they were drafted, but because they stepped up," he said. "I would take him to (the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.) and introduce him to the thousands of soldiers that come back from Iraq and they're hurt but they want to get better quickly so they can go back.
"Then I would sit down with bin Laden and I'd look him straight in the eye and say, 'That's why America is what it is. It isn't about two buildings. It's the people ... in small cities across this country," Mirenzi said.
He'd also introduce him to Colton Lockner, 10, who he called the "real deal." The fifth-grader organized Sebring's two Freedom Walks. "He gets it," Mirenzi said.
That's something Robyn Lockner, Colton's mom, already knew.
"If you have a veteran's hat on, he's coming up to you," she said of Colton. "If you have a uniform on, he's coming up to you and he's going to thank you for your service. It's just coming from the heart."
And he comes by that naturally, she said. Both of his grandfathers served in the military. His Uncle Brian, a staff sergeant in the Ohio National Guard, has served two tours in Iraq and will say goodbye to his wife when she deploys in January.
"He's just used to it," Robyn said of her son.
But planning something as huge as a Freedom Walk still makes him nervous, Colton said. This year was a bit easier than last, though, because he'd already made all the necessary contacts.
He tackled the project again, first and foremost, out of his deep-seated desire to honor servicemembers past and present and to commemorate the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, but he also had some encouragement.
"A lot of people were saying they hoped I had it again," Colton said. "I've learned to do this every year because people love it."
It also keeps him grounded to do something that gives so much back to so many, his mother said. Though she added with a laugh that he's still the same down-to-earth "bratty" child he's always been.
Colton's second annual Freedom Walk and the 250-plus walks around the country paralleled the third annual national America Supports You Freedom Walk held in Washington on Sept. 9. America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
American, Afghan Women Discuss Future
By Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Several influential Afghan women from Laghman province met earlier this month with U.S. Army and Air Force women to discuss their role in the future of their province. "(Afghan women) talk to each other, to their children and their husbands, and that is a very powerful way to get information spread throughout the province," said Air Force Capt. Heather Kekic, Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team public affairs and information officer.
The Afghan women work for the Laghman provincial governor either as program directors or teachers. Sept. 5 marked the second time they met with the American women, and they talked with the aid of an interpreter. This meeting provided a chance for the Americans to educate the Afghan women about the various humanitarian and security programs available to them and their communities, she said.
The Afghan women always look forward to meeting with their American sisters, said Sharin Taj, Laghman province's director of women's affairs.
"We get attached to the women here," Taj said through an interpreter. "We get together and get to know each other, and that friendship is very important."
So are the discussions. Among topics discussed were future reconstruction and humanitarian aid projects, the possibility of women's meetings in local villages, and personal safety and security.
"They are very concerned about the security within the province," Kekic said. "They are just like us in that they want their roads to be free of bombs. They do not want their families hurt or killed by the violence."
A few women said they have received threats because of their jobs for the governor. One woman reported that her son had seen strange men with rockets walk along the river bank, while another woman spoke of her fear every day to walk along roads in her village.
The Americans shared phone numbers for the provincial coordination center (similar to 911 service in the United States) and provided information about quick response teams. They also implored the Afghan women to call if they or family members see anything suspicious.
"We have suffered a lot, but we all want the same things," Taj said. "We want freedom, just like the rest of the people in Afghanistan, and we want education, good families and good jobs. All of these things are very important."
She added that sacrifices made by the American women are not lost on any of the Afghan women.
"You can ask any female in the village," Taj said. "We know that (the Americans) have left their families, their children and husbands to come here and help the people of Afghanistan. This is a very honorable thing, and we really appreciate that."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein is assigned to U.S. Central Command Air Forces Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Several influential Afghan women from Laghman province met earlier this month with U.S. Army and Air Force women to discuss their role in the future of their province. "(Afghan women) talk to each other, to their children and their husbands, and that is a very powerful way to get information spread throughout the province," said Air Force Capt. Heather Kekic, Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team public affairs and information officer.
The Afghan women work for the Laghman provincial governor either as program directors or teachers. Sept. 5 marked the second time they met with the American women, and they talked with the aid of an interpreter. This meeting provided a chance for the Americans to educate the Afghan women about the various humanitarian and security programs available to them and their communities, she said.
The Afghan women always look forward to meeting with their American sisters, said Sharin Taj, Laghman province's director of women's affairs.
"We get attached to the women here," Taj said through an interpreter. "We get together and get to know each other, and that friendship is very important."
So are the discussions. Among topics discussed were future reconstruction and humanitarian aid projects, the possibility of women's meetings in local villages, and personal safety and security.
"They are very concerned about the security within the province," Kekic said. "They are just like us in that they want their roads to be free of bombs. They do not want their families hurt or killed by the violence."
A few women said they have received threats because of their jobs for the governor. One woman reported that her son had seen strange men with rockets walk along the river bank, while another woman spoke of her fear every day to walk along roads in her village.
The Americans shared phone numbers for the provincial coordination center (similar to 911 service in the United States) and provided information about quick response teams. They also implored the Afghan women to call if they or family members see anything suspicious.
"We have suffered a lot, but we all want the same things," Taj said. "We want freedom, just like the rest of the people in Afghanistan, and we want education, good families and good jobs. All of these things are very important."
She added that sacrifices made by the American women are not lost on any of the Afghan women.
"You can ask any female in the village," Taj said. "We know that (the Americans) have left their families, their children and husbands to come here and help the people of Afghanistan. This is a very honorable thing, and we really appreciate that."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein is assigned to U.S. Central Command Air Forces Public Affairs.)
Support of Deployed Workers Earns Turbocam Top Honor
By Carol L. Bowers
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Turbocam International's support of its deployed employees with technology to use in the field and a special supply fund has earned the company a place of honor alongside 14 other organizations being recognized today with Secretary of Defense Employer Freedom Awards. Since Sept. 11, 2001, three Turbocam employees have been called to serve overseas: Brian Barber, a New Hampshire Air National Guard crew chief on KC-135 Stratotankers; Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Tom McGee, who served in 172nd Field Artillery in Iraq; and Army National Guard Cpl. Chris Wentworth, who served in 744th Transportation Company in Iraq. Army National Guard Sgt. James Martel of 3643rd Maintenance Company, the spouse of a Turbocam employee, also was deployed.
Because Turbocam's chairman and founder, Marian Noronha, actively recruits National Guard and members reservists as workers and honors the importance of family. He moved quickly to fully support the deployed men.
"When our soldiers are facing new forces, tactics or technology, it is the whole American community that needs to be rallied to find solutions, not just the Pentagon," Noronha told Fosters.com, an online newspaper serving New Hampshire.
Noronha arranged for Turbocam to provide one deployed employee with software and hardware to set up an Internet cafe for his unit. He also arranged for the company to provide live-saving battlefield surveillance technology to another. In addition, Noronha had the company create a $10,000 fund so the deployed men could draw on it to buy needed supplies that were not routinely available through normal channels.
At the New Hampshire-based plant where the company manufactures and engineers machinery for aerospace, automotive and industrial markets, wall displays, company publications and newsletters paid tribute to Turbocam's military employees.
"Our biggest contribution probably was not the camera technology," Noronha said in the newspaper interview. "It was the Internet cafe that enabled soldiers to stay in touch with their families. They need to know that they are supported back home."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process. ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Turbocam International's support of its deployed employees with technology to use in the field and a special supply fund has earned the company a place of honor alongside 14 other organizations being recognized today with Secretary of Defense Employer Freedom Awards. Since Sept. 11, 2001, three Turbocam employees have been called to serve overseas: Brian Barber, a New Hampshire Air National Guard crew chief on KC-135 Stratotankers; Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Tom McGee, who served in 172nd Field Artillery in Iraq; and Army National Guard Cpl. Chris Wentworth, who served in 744th Transportation Company in Iraq. Army National Guard Sgt. James Martel of 3643rd Maintenance Company, the spouse of a Turbocam employee, also was deployed.
Because Turbocam's chairman and founder, Marian Noronha, actively recruits National Guard and members reservists as workers and honors the importance of family. He moved quickly to fully support the deployed men.
"When our soldiers are facing new forces, tactics or technology, it is the whole American community that needs to be rallied to find solutions, not just the Pentagon," Noronha told Fosters.com, an online newspaper serving New Hampshire.
Noronha arranged for Turbocam to provide one deployed employee with software and hardware to set up an Internet cafe for his unit. He also arranged for the company to provide live-saving battlefield surveillance technology to another. In addition, Noronha had the company create a $10,000 fund so the deployed men could draw on it to buy needed supplies that were not routinely available through normal channels.
At the New Hampshire-based plant where the company manufactures and engineers machinery for aerospace, automotive and industrial markets, wall displays, company publications and newsletters paid tribute to Turbocam's military employees.
"Our biggest contribution probably was not the camera technology," Noronha said in the newspaper interview. "It was the Internet cafe that enabled soldiers to stay in touch with their families. They need to know that they are supported back home."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process. ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
Bush Nominates Mattis to Lead U.S. Joint Forces Command
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - President Bush has nominated Marine Lt. Gen. James N. Mattis to receive his fourth star and to lead U.S. Joint Forces Command, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced yesterday. Mattis, currently "dual-hatted" as commander of 1st Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton, Calif., and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command, will replace the retiring Air Force Gen. Lance L. Smith at JFCOM if he's confirmed by the Senate. Earlier this summer, Smith announced his plans to retire in January with 38 years of service.
If confirmed, Mattis will take the helm at JFCOM and oversee its roles in military transformation, experimentation, joint training, interoperability, and force provision and management.
NATO's Defense Planning Committee also announced yesterday its plans to appoint Mattis as the next supreme allied commander for transformation. In that capacity, he will lead the transformation of NATO's military structures, forces, capabilities and doctrine. Mattis also will oversee NATO training efforts to improve the alliance's and its partner nations' interoperability and military effectiveness.
Mattis will bring a solid understanding of current operational challenges to his new post. In late July, he visited Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 2, operating in Baghdadi, in Iraq's Anbar province.
"You are all doing one hell of a job," Mattis told the Marines. "I can't thank you enough for putting up with all of this discomfort and continuing to complete the mission."
He warned them about becoming complacent as they carry out their mission. "All you have to do is hang in there, and keep your eye on the ball," he told the Marines. "We are being killed by complacency. I know it is tough out here, but keep your eye on the ball and you will make it out of here."
Mattis has amassed a full resume of experience he will bring to JFCOM. Before taking the helm at 1st MEF, he commanded Marine Corps Combat Development Command and served as the deputy commandant for combat development.
He commanded 1st Marine Division during the initial attack and subsequent stability operations in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Before that, he served as commander of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Task Force 58 in southern Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
Mattis also commanded 7th Marines (Reinforced), and during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, led 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, one of Task Force Ripper's assault battalions.
Before that, he served as commander of Recruiting Station Portland, 1st Marine Brigade, rifle and weapons companies, and a 3rd Marine Division rifle and weapons platoon.
Mattis is a graduate of the Amphibious Warfare School, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and the National War College.
(Lance Cpl. Brian L. Lewis from 2nd Marine Division contributed to this article.)
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - President Bush has nominated Marine Lt. Gen. James N. Mattis to receive his fourth star and to lead U.S. Joint Forces Command, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates announced yesterday. Mattis, currently "dual-hatted" as commander of 1st Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton, Calif., and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command, will replace the retiring Air Force Gen. Lance L. Smith at JFCOM if he's confirmed by the Senate. Earlier this summer, Smith announced his plans to retire in January with 38 years of service.
If confirmed, Mattis will take the helm at JFCOM and oversee its roles in military transformation, experimentation, joint training, interoperability, and force provision and management.
NATO's Defense Planning Committee also announced yesterday its plans to appoint Mattis as the next supreme allied commander for transformation. In that capacity, he will lead the transformation of NATO's military structures, forces, capabilities and doctrine. Mattis also will oversee NATO training efforts to improve the alliance's and its partner nations' interoperability and military effectiveness.
Mattis will bring a solid understanding of current operational challenges to his new post. In late July, he visited Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 2, operating in Baghdadi, in Iraq's Anbar province.
"You are all doing one hell of a job," Mattis told the Marines. "I can't thank you enough for putting up with all of this discomfort and continuing to complete the mission."
He warned them about becoming complacent as they carry out their mission. "All you have to do is hang in there, and keep your eye on the ball," he told the Marines. "We are being killed by complacency. I know it is tough out here, but keep your eye on the ball and you will make it out of here."
Mattis has amassed a full resume of experience he will bring to JFCOM. Before taking the helm at 1st MEF, he commanded Marine Corps Combat Development Command and served as the deputy commandant for combat development.
He commanded 1st Marine Division during the initial attack and subsequent stability operations in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Before that, he served as commander of 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Task Force 58 in southern Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
Mattis also commanded 7th Marines (Reinforced), and during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, led 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, one of Task Force Ripper's assault battalions.
Before that, he served as commander of Recruiting Station Portland, 1st Marine Brigade, rifle and weapons companies, and a 3rd Marine Division rifle and weapons platoon.
Mattis is a graduate of the Amphibious Warfare School, Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and the National War College.
(Lance Cpl. Brian L. Lewis from 2nd Marine Division contributed to this article.)
Gates Hails Employers for Support of Guardsmen, Reservists
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates praised a select group of civilian employers today for their exemplary support of employees in the National Guard and reserves. During a meeting in his Pentagon office today, Gates thanked the employers for "the leadership that you all show and the sympathy and help that you provide to our men and women in the Guard and Reserve."
"The fact that you have won this award really is a measure of your service," he added.
Fifteen businesses and organizations were selected to receive the 2007 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the reserve components.
This year's Freedom Award recipients are: Augustine and Sons Inc., Rose Hill, Iowa; Con-way Inc., San Mateo, Calif.; Creative Healthcare Solutions, Scottsdale, Ariz.; Custom Hardware Engineering Inc., Fenton, Mo.; Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Tulsa, Okla.; Gantt Excavating and Contracting Inc., Martinsburg, W.Va.; General Motors Corp., Detroit; New Hampshire State Police, Concord, N.H.; Nucor Corp., Charlotte, N.C.; Sierra Pacific Resources, Las Vegas; Sodexho USA, Gaithersburg, Md.; the state of Tennessee; Turbocam International, Dover, N.H.; Ultra Machining Co., Monticello, Minn; and Wilmington VA Medical Center, Wilmington, Del.
The honorees will receive their Freedom Awards tonight during the annual banquet held in Washington, D.C.
Officials from the award-winning firms and organizations met with Vice President Richard B. Cheney earlier today.
President Bush, who declared Sept. 9-15 as National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week for 2007, will greet the group at the White House tomorrow.
"During National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we recognize the vital contributions of the brave men and women who serve our great nation, and we pay tribute to the employers who support them," Bush said in a proclamation. Employer support, Bush stated, is critical to reserve-component servicemembers' ability to serve.
Frederick D. Gantt, president of Gantt's Excavating and Contracting Inc., said his firm supplied four all-terrain vehicles used by company employees deployed for military duty in Iraq. Gantt's business performs commercial and residential earth work for septic systems, utilities and roads.
"We feel that we need to do it to help the country out," Gantt said of his company's contributions on behalf of its employees in the Guard and reserves. "If you don't stick together, you'll fall one at a time."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
This year's Freedom Award recipients are "a fantastic group," said L. Gordon Sumner Jr., a retired Army lieutenant colonel appointed as the committee's new executive director March 29.
The firms being honored "are going above and beyond in their support for our Guard (members) and reservists," Sumner said. The fifteen honorees were selected from a list of nearly 1,200 nominations, he noted.
Dan Augustine, co-owner of Augustine and Sons Inc., a 150-year-old family-owned farm in Rose Hill, Iowa, saluted company employee Iowa National Guard 1st Sgt. Matthew T. Strasser, who nominated his firm for the award and is now deployed to Afghanistan. The company has assisted Strasser's wife, Jessica, by performing needed household chores and by taking the family's two young sons out on weekend farm outings.
"It makes us feel good that he appreciates what we have done," Augustine said of Strasser. "It's a small thing that we can do to help his family while he is deployed."
"The award, from our viewpoint, is really more about the men and women who are giving of themselves for the country," said Norman Stalsberg, president of Creative Healthcare Solutions Inc., a marketing provider to the biotech and pharmaceutical industries.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates praised a select group of civilian employers today for their exemplary support of employees in the National Guard and reserves. During a meeting in his Pentagon office today, Gates thanked the employers for "the leadership that you all show and the sympathy and help that you provide to our men and women in the Guard and Reserve."
"The fact that you have won this award really is a measure of your service," he added.
Fifteen businesses and organizations were selected to receive the 2007 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the reserve components.
This year's Freedom Award recipients are: Augustine and Sons Inc., Rose Hill, Iowa; Con-way Inc., San Mateo, Calif.; Creative Healthcare Solutions, Scottsdale, Ariz.; Custom Hardware Engineering Inc., Fenton, Mo.; Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Tulsa, Okla.; Gantt Excavating and Contracting Inc., Martinsburg, W.Va.; General Motors Corp., Detroit; New Hampshire State Police, Concord, N.H.; Nucor Corp., Charlotte, N.C.; Sierra Pacific Resources, Las Vegas; Sodexho USA, Gaithersburg, Md.; the state of Tennessee; Turbocam International, Dover, N.H.; Ultra Machining Co., Monticello, Minn; and Wilmington VA Medical Center, Wilmington, Del.
The honorees will receive their Freedom Awards tonight during the annual banquet held in Washington, D.C.
Officials from the award-winning firms and organizations met with Vice President Richard B. Cheney earlier today.
President Bush, who declared Sept. 9-15 as National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week for 2007, will greet the group at the White House tomorrow.
"During National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we recognize the vital contributions of the brave men and women who serve our great nation, and we pay tribute to the employers who support them," Bush said in a proclamation. Employer support, Bush stated, is critical to reserve-component servicemembers' ability to serve.
Frederick D. Gantt, president of Gantt's Excavating and Contracting Inc., said his firm supplied four all-terrain vehicles used by company employees deployed for military duty in Iraq. Gantt's business performs commercial and residential earth work for septic systems, utilities and roads.
"We feel that we need to do it to help the country out," Gantt said of his company's contributions on behalf of its employees in the Guard and reserves. "If you don't stick together, you'll fall one at a time."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
This year's Freedom Award recipients are "a fantastic group," said L. Gordon Sumner Jr., a retired Army lieutenant colonel appointed as the committee's new executive director March 29.
The firms being honored "are going above and beyond in their support for our Guard (members) and reservists," Sumner said. The fifteen honorees were selected from a list of nearly 1,200 nominations, he noted.
Dan Augustine, co-owner of Augustine and Sons Inc., a 150-year-old family-owned farm in Rose Hill, Iowa, saluted company employee Iowa National Guard 1st Sgt. Matthew T. Strasser, who nominated his firm for the award and is now deployed to Afghanistan. The company has assisted Strasser's wife, Jessica, by performing needed household chores and by taking the family's two young sons out on weekend farm outings.
"It makes us feel good that he appreciates what we have done," Augustine said of Strasser. "It's a small thing that we can do to help his family while he is deployed."
"The award, from our viewpoint, is really more about the men and women who are giving of themselves for the country," said Norman Stalsberg, president of Creative Healthcare Solutions Inc., a marketing provider to the biotech and pharmaceutical industries.
West Virginia Company Lightens Load for Aviation Unit
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - The contributions of a West Virginia excavating company helped lighten the load -- literally -- for a deploying Army National Guard aviation unit. When Army National Guardsman Chief Warrant Officer 3 Timothy Smith found out he was deploying, he was concerned about the distance from the command post to the flight line at Forward Operating Base Speicher, Iraq. It was nearly a mile, and with each of the four-person crew carrying 150 pounds in gear, plus weapons and ammunition, all in 135-degree-plus heat, Smith saw a problem.
"We'd be worn out before we ever left on a mission, just getting our gear out there," said the UH-60 Black Hawk pilot with Company C, 150th Aviation, Air Assault, in Wheeling, W.Va.
After Smith talked with his wife about the problem, she went to her father, Frederick Gantt, a local businessman and former member of the West Virginia Air National Guard.
As it happens, her father is also Smith's boss, and owner of Gantt's Excavating and Contracting in Martinsburg, W.Va.
Gantt put heads together with a couple of fellow businessmen, and they raised more than $20,000 to purchase four Polaris Rangers, or small all-terrain vehicle-style trucks, to move equipment to and from the flight line.
During its deployment to Iraq from July 2006 to July 2007, the unit flew 200 missions and more than 600 hours, Smith said. The vehicles earned their money for unit, Smith said.
"They were invaluable. Many times I had members of my unit start trying to express what it was like to have those and they literally couldn't find the words," Smith said. "They were used 24/7. If they weren't supporting crews, they were supporting maintenance."
Smith, who is general manager of the business, said Gantt routinely gives back to the community in generous ways.
"They always go above and beyond to do something for the local area," Smith said.
During Smith's deployment, Gantt kept him on the payroll until he was sure his military pay had started coming in, and then began paying Smith at the end of the deployment, before he came off duty, just to ensure there was no break in pay. The company also kept his health insurance current, so his family didn't have to switch providers during the deployment.
Smith's wife, Janesa, who is also a veteran, nominated the company to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Gantt's Excavating and Contracting is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive the annual award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
Smith called his boss and family true patriots.
"I think it's extremely patriotic. It's heartwarming. It's just another example of this family's commitment not only to the country, but the community," he said.
Even though Smith is his son-in-law, Gantt said, he would have done the same for any Guard member who worked for him.
"We feel that we need to do it to help the country," Gantt said. "If you don't stick together, you fall one at a time. We believe strongly in that."
Smith agreed.
"I know I'm family, but the way they have always given back to the community -- it's beyond family," he said. "They are always trying to give back. I'm proud of that. I'm proud of them for that."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process. ESGR assists Guard and reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
Gantt is slated to accept the Freedom Award during a formal ceremony here tonight.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 12, 2007 - The contributions of a West Virginia excavating company helped lighten the load -- literally -- for a deploying Army National Guard aviation unit. When Army National Guardsman Chief Warrant Officer 3 Timothy Smith found out he was deploying, he was concerned about the distance from the command post to the flight line at Forward Operating Base Speicher, Iraq. It was nearly a mile, and with each of the four-person crew carrying 150 pounds in gear, plus weapons and ammunition, all in 135-degree-plus heat, Smith saw a problem.
"We'd be worn out before we ever left on a mission, just getting our gear out there," said the UH-60 Black Hawk pilot with Company C, 150th Aviation, Air Assault, in Wheeling, W.Va.
After Smith talked with his wife about the problem, she went to her father, Frederick Gantt, a local businessman and former member of the West Virginia Air National Guard.
As it happens, her father is also Smith's boss, and owner of Gantt's Excavating and Contracting in Martinsburg, W.Va.
Gantt put heads together with a couple of fellow businessmen, and they raised more than $20,000 to purchase four Polaris Rangers, or small all-terrain vehicle-style trucks, to move equipment to and from the flight line.
During its deployment to Iraq from July 2006 to July 2007, the unit flew 200 missions and more than 600 hours, Smith said. The vehicles earned their money for unit, Smith said.
"They were invaluable. Many times I had members of my unit start trying to express what it was like to have those and they literally couldn't find the words," Smith said. "They were used 24/7. If they weren't supporting crews, they were supporting maintenance."
Smith, who is general manager of the business, said Gantt routinely gives back to the community in generous ways.
"They always go above and beyond to do something for the local area," Smith said.
During Smith's deployment, Gantt kept him on the payroll until he was sure his military pay had started coming in, and then began paying Smith at the end of the deployment, before he came off duty, just to ensure there was no break in pay. The company also kept his health insurance current, so his family didn't have to switch providers during the deployment.
Smith's wife, Janesa, who is also a veteran, nominated the company to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Gantt's Excavating and Contracting is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive the annual award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
Smith called his boss and family true patriots.
"I think it's extremely patriotic. It's heartwarming. It's just another example of this family's commitment not only to the country, but the community," he said.
Even though Smith is his son-in-law, Gantt said, he would have done the same for any Guard member who worked for him.
"We feel that we need to do it to help the country," Gantt said. "If you don't stick together, you fall one at a time. We believe strongly in that."
Smith agreed.
"I know I'm family, but the way they have always given back to the community -- it's beyond family," he said. "They are always trying to give back. I'm proud of that. I'm proud of them for that."
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process. ESGR assists Guard and reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
Gantt is slated to accept the Freedom Award during a formal ceremony here tonight.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Employer Helps with Life on the Farm, Military Wife Says
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - Although Jessica Strasser's husband is now deployed to Afghanistan with his Iowa Army National Guard unit, she says life on the farm is immeasurably easier thanks to his employer. Jessica's husband, 1st Sgt. Matthew T. Strasser, is employed by Augustine and Sons, Inc., a 150-year-old family farm in Rose Hill, Iowa. The Strassers and their two sons, Reece, 9, and Tyler, 7, live rent-free and farm on Augustine and Sons-owned acreage.
Matthew is a professional farmer who has grown corn, soybeans and hay and tended cattle and hogs for Augustine and Sons for five years now, Jessica said.
Strasser, who deployed to Afghanistan in May, nominated his civilian employer to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Augustine and Sons is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive this year's Freedom Award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
"They do so much for us, I mean, stuff that they don't have to do," said 35-year-old Jessica, who has a full-time job away from the farm. "They take the time to help us out."
Augustine and Sons has helped her sons care for their three Black Angus and three Charolais cattle, Jessica said, as well as performing various household chores, such as cutting grass and making repairs. Augustine and Sons also provides Matthew's yearly bonus while he's deployed.
Jessica said her husband's civilian employer also takes her sons to observe company farming operations on weekends.
"That's really good, because it helps to fill their time while their father is gone," she said.
Jessica said her 32-year-old husband helps train Afghan National Army soldiers.
"We're very supportive of his time in the National Guard," she said. "He tells me that they're making progress with his mission."
Matthew "is making a difference" in Afghanistan, Jessica pointed out. "And, that's important," she said.
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
An Augustine and Sons' senior representative will accept the Freedom Award on behalf of his company during a formal ceremony here Sept. 12.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - Although Jessica Strasser's husband is now deployed to Afghanistan with his Iowa Army National Guard unit, she says life on the farm is immeasurably easier thanks to his employer. Jessica's husband, 1st Sgt. Matthew T. Strasser, is employed by Augustine and Sons, Inc., a 150-year-old family farm in Rose Hill, Iowa. The Strassers and their two sons, Reece, 9, and Tyler, 7, live rent-free and farm on Augustine and Sons-owned acreage.
Matthew is a professional farmer who has grown corn, soybeans and hay and tended cattle and hogs for Augustine and Sons for five years now, Jessica said.
Strasser, who deployed to Afghanistan in May, nominated his civilian employer to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Augustine and Sons is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive this year's Freedom Award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
"They do so much for us, I mean, stuff that they don't have to do," said 35-year-old Jessica, who has a full-time job away from the farm. "They take the time to help us out."
Augustine and Sons has helped her sons care for their three Black Angus and three Charolais cattle, Jessica said, as well as performing various household chores, such as cutting grass and making repairs. Augustine and Sons also provides Matthew's yearly bonus while he's deployed.
Jessica said her husband's civilian employer also takes her sons to observe company farming operations on weekends.
"That's really good, because it helps to fill their time while their father is gone," she said.
Jessica said her 32-year-old husband helps train Afghan National Army soldiers.
"We're very supportive of his time in the National Guard," she said. "He tells me that they're making progress with his mission."
Matthew "is making a difference" in Afghanistan, Jessica pointed out. "And, that's important," she said.
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
An Augustine and Sons' senior representative will accept the Freedom Award on behalf of his company during a formal ceremony here Sept. 12.
Marine Reservist Cites Rental Car Firm for Superb Support
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - Marine reservist Cpl. Blake Milam says his civilian employer, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., has gone the extra mile to make him feel good about his military service. Last year, the Tulsa, Okla.-based rental car company gave a welcome-home party for Milam after he'd returned from an 8-month duty tour in Fallujah, Iraq, he said.
"They've been really supportive," the 23-year-old automobile inventory technician said of his employer. "They've gone out of their way to help me out."
Milam nominated his employer to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Dollar Thrifty is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive the annual award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
Dollar Thrifty also provided Milam with two raises and a slice of company profits that he'd missed while he was serving in Iraq.
A radio operator in military life, Milam said his employer's support enabled him to perform dangerous duty in Iraq without worrying about his job back home. Milam experienced the death of three of his fellow Marines and the severe wounding of three other comrades during heavy fighting against the enemy.
Milam credited Dollar Thrifty for helping him to transition back to civilian life after his return from Iraq in October 2006.
"Things are going really good, right now," he said.
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group's president and chief executive officer, Gary L. Paxton, is slated to accept the Freedom Award on behalf of his firm during a formal ceremony here Sept. 12.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - Marine reservist Cpl. Blake Milam says his civilian employer, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., has gone the extra mile to make him feel good about his military service. Last year, the Tulsa, Okla.-based rental car company gave a welcome-home party for Milam after he'd returned from an 8-month duty tour in Fallujah, Iraq, he said.
"They've been really supportive," the 23-year-old automobile inventory technician said of his employer. "They've gone out of their way to help me out."
Milam nominated his employer to receive the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Dollar Thrifty is among 15 businesses and organizations selected to receive the annual award, which recognizes exemplary support for employees in the Guard or reserve.
Dollar Thrifty also provided Milam with two raises and a slice of company profits that he'd missed while he was serving in Iraq.
A radio operator in military life, Milam said his employer's support enabled him to perform dangerous duty in Iraq without worrying about his job back home. Milam experienced the death of three of his fellow Marines and the severe wounding of three other comrades during heavy fighting against the enemy.
Milam credited Dollar Thrifty for helping him to transition back to civilian life after his return from Iraq in October 2006.
"Things are going really good, right now," he said.
The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department agency, manages the award process.
ESGR assists Guard and Reserve members and their employers understand employee eligibility and job entitlements, employer obligations, benefits and remedies under the act.
Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group's president and chief executive officer, Gary L. Paxton, is slated to accept the Freedom Award on behalf of his firm during a formal ceremony here Sept. 12.
Stryker Troops Return to Families; Unit Cared for by Rear Detachment
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - When the first planeload of soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Division's 3rd Stryker Brigade returned here last night after their second deployment to Iraq, they didn't arrive to a darkened, padlocked brigade headquarters. In addition to a gymnasium full of loved ones and well-wishers, the 260 soldiers of 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, were greeted by members of their own unit who had stayed behind to run the rear detachment.
Deploying units leave behind a "Rear D" to provide vital home-station support while they're gone. It maintains unit property and equipment, untangles pay and legal problems that arise during the deployment, and trains replacements being sent to the unit.
"We get assigned soldiers, we train them, we equip them, and then we deploy them to the theater," said Army Maj. Kyle Marsh, who returned in May to take over command of the Arrowhead Brigade's Rear D. "Our charter is to get them to a basic level of capability and proficiency so that downrange they are not going to have to do that. They can get right out and get busy."
But these missions pale when compared to what Marsh called the Rear D's most important callings: taking care of families and honoring the fallen. As the Rear D juggles its myriad missions, Marsh said, it never loses sight of the needs of deployed soldiers' families, particularly families of troops killed.
Since the brigade deployed in June 2006, it's lost 54 soldiers: 47 from the brigade and seven from units attached to it. Twelve died during Marsh's first two weeks on the job as Rear D commander, and he said dealing with casualties never gets easier.
"Casualty operations are our glass ball," Marsh said. "You cannot drop the glass ball. That's the most important job we do."
Marsh is the first to get the call that there has been a casualty, typically from the front and often in the middle of the night. That's terrible for him, he said, but equally painful for his 7-year-old daughter. "She hears the phone ring and knows that it means," he said. "She knew daddy was in Iraq fighting bad guys and that he's back here burying good guys. That's very tough."
When Marsh gets the call, he scrambles the Rear D into action, arranging for the next of kin to be notified and for a casualty support officer to step in to assist the family. Casualty care teams of volunteers from the brigade's family readiness groups offer to come to a family's side immediately, until the official support network takes over.
In addition, Rear D troops provide the rifle teams, buglers and speakers to honor brigade troops at their Fort Lewis memorial services.
During a recent service at the post's main chapel, Marsh eulogized six brigade soldiers killed in Iraq: Staff Sgt. Fernando Santos, and Spcs. Zachariah Gonzalez, Alfred Jairala, Cristian Rojas-Gallego, Eric Salinas and Charles Heinlein Jr.
Marsh honored the fallen troops for putting their country above their own lives and urged those at the service to "pause and pray for the families, for comrades, ... and for healing of this unit and post."
Much of that healing -- which officials here say the entire brigade, including its families, must go through -- begins with the Rear D.
Marsh works hand in hand with Darlene Pacheco, the brigade's family-assistant representative, and Melissa Townsend, wife of the brigade commander, throughout the deployment to ensure families never feel abandoned.
More than half of the brigade's 4,000 soldiers are married, said Townsend, whose husband, Col. Steve Townsend, is still in Iraq. Nearly 2,000 brigade families have remained in the Fort Lewis area during the deployment.
The Rear D team works through family readiness groups to give these families information about the unit and tools to help them cope. They bring in speakers to talk about everything from mental-health issues to self-defense. They steer families in need to resources available to help them. They plan fun activities so families can pass the time together.
"Our team is bringing compassion and support," Townsend said. "We strive to help give them the tools they might need to successfully get through the deployment."
Like Townsend, Pacheco knows what it's like to be the wife left behind during a deployment. Her husband, now retired, deployed throughout his career, giving his wife the personal as well as professional insights she applies every day on the job.
These skills have been particularly valuable helping families cope during a 15-month deployment, Pacheco said. She said a three-month extension announced after the brigade left for Iraq proved to be particularly challenging for families.
Those additional months "are the longest three months of your life, because you hit the wall," Townsend said. "Between month 13 and 14, you start wondering, 'Am I going to push through this or not?'"
"It's like having an elephant on your chest," agreed Pacheco. "You can't breathe because you're so consumed with worry about your loved one."
That's typically when problems arise at home, she said. Cars won't start. Toilets leak. Children start acting out. Anything that can go wrong does.
At each step of the way, the brigade's Rear D and family support network work together to help families through the tough days and steer them toward help they need. Sometimes the most important thing they can offer is a shoulder to cry on and a reassuring hug.
"We have become a family," Pacheco said of the team and the Stryker families.
While Marsh prepares soldiers to go into combat, Pacheco said the brigade's family network ensures their families are ready, too. "Our job is to prepare families and have them battle-ready," she said. "That means providing resources (and) giving them the tools they need to be able to function as a sole parent for a year and a half. And that's a big undertaking."
Townsend admits to being more "hands-on" than the average commander's wife. But as challenging as it may be to work with families throughout a long deployment, it's gratifying as well, she said. "I couldn't see myself doing it any other way," she said, noting that the soldiers' families become her own family while her husband is deployed.
Marsh compared the bonds that form within the Rear D to those that soldiers develop on the battlefield. It's a bond he called critical to the brigade's mission, because it ensures that deployed troops can focus on their mission, and not be distracted by unmet needs at home.
"This dynamic brings the warfighter confidence and stability," he said. "Their mind is so engaged on staying alive that if they had to worry about what goes on back here, they couldn't do their job."
"If things are going OK back here, then he can focus on what he should be focused on," Pacheco agreed. "And that's our job back here: to take care of families, pride them with resources and compassion."
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2007 - When the first planeload of soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Division's 3rd Stryker Brigade returned here last night after their second deployment to Iraq, they didn't arrive to a darkened, padlocked brigade headquarters. In addition to a gymnasium full of loved ones and well-wishers, the 260 soldiers of 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, were greeted by members of their own unit who had stayed behind to run the rear detachment.
Deploying units leave behind a "Rear D" to provide vital home-station support while they're gone. It maintains unit property and equipment, untangles pay and legal problems that arise during the deployment, and trains replacements being sent to the unit.
"We get assigned soldiers, we train them, we equip them, and then we deploy them to the theater," said Army Maj. Kyle Marsh, who returned in May to take over command of the Arrowhead Brigade's Rear D. "Our charter is to get them to a basic level of capability and proficiency so that downrange they are not going to have to do that. They can get right out and get busy."
But these missions pale when compared to what Marsh called the Rear D's most important callings: taking care of families and honoring the fallen. As the Rear D juggles its myriad missions, Marsh said, it never loses sight of the needs of deployed soldiers' families, particularly families of troops killed.
Since the brigade deployed in June 2006, it's lost 54 soldiers: 47 from the brigade and seven from units attached to it. Twelve died during Marsh's first two weeks on the job as Rear D commander, and he said dealing with casualties never gets easier.
"Casualty operations are our glass ball," Marsh said. "You cannot drop the glass ball. That's the most important job we do."
Marsh is the first to get the call that there has been a casualty, typically from the front and often in the middle of the night. That's terrible for him, he said, but equally painful for his 7-year-old daughter. "She hears the phone ring and knows that it means," he said. "She knew daddy was in Iraq fighting bad guys and that he's back here burying good guys. That's very tough."
When Marsh gets the call, he scrambles the Rear D into action, arranging for the next of kin to be notified and for a casualty support officer to step in to assist the family. Casualty care teams of volunteers from the brigade's family readiness groups offer to come to a family's side immediately, until the official support network takes over.
In addition, Rear D troops provide the rifle teams, buglers and speakers to honor brigade troops at their Fort Lewis memorial services.
During a recent service at the post's main chapel, Marsh eulogized six brigade soldiers killed in Iraq: Staff Sgt. Fernando Santos, and Spcs. Zachariah Gonzalez, Alfred Jairala, Cristian Rojas-Gallego, Eric Salinas and Charles Heinlein Jr.
Marsh honored the fallen troops for putting their country above their own lives and urged those at the service to "pause and pray for the families, for comrades, ... and for healing of this unit and post."
Much of that healing -- which officials here say the entire brigade, including its families, must go through -- begins with the Rear D.
Marsh works hand in hand with Darlene Pacheco, the brigade's family-assistant representative, and Melissa Townsend, wife of the brigade commander, throughout the deployment to ensure families never feel abandoned.
More than half of the brigade's 4,000 soldiers are married, said Townsend, whose husband, Col. Steve Townsend, is still in Iraq. Nearly 2,000 brigade families have remained in the Fort Lewis area during the deployment.
The Rear D team works through family readiness groups to give these families information about the unit and tools to help them cope. They bring in speakers to talk about everything from mental-health issues to self-defense. They steer families in need to resources available to help them. They plan fun activities so families can pass the time together.
"Our team is bringing compassion and support," Townsend said. "We strive to help give them the tools they might need to successfully get through the deployment."
Like Townsend, Pacheco knows what it's like to be the wife left behind during a deployment. Her husband, now retired, deployed throughout his career, giving his wife the personal as well as professional insights she applies every day on the job.
These skills have been particularly valuable helping families cope during a 15-month deployment, Pacheco said. She said a three-month extension announced after the brigade left for Iraq proved to be particularly challenging for families.
Those additional months "are the longest three months of your life, because you hit the wall," Townsend said. "Between month 13 and 14, you start wondering, 'Am I going to push through this or not?'"
"It's like having an elephant on your chest," agreed Pacheco. "You can't breathe because you're so consumed with worry about your loved one."
That's typically when problems arise at home, she said. Cars won't start. Toilets leak. Children start acting out. Anything that can go wrong does.
At each step of the way, the brigade's Rear D and family support network work together to help families through the tough days and steer them toward help they need. Sometimes the most important thing they can offer is a shoulder to cry on and a reassuring hug.
"We have become a family," Pacheco said of the team and the Stryker families.
While Marsh prepares soldiers to go into combat, Pacheco said the brigade's family network ensures their families are ready, too. "Our job is to prepare families and have them battle-ready," she said. "That means providing resources (and) giving them the tools they need to be able to function as a sole parent for a year and a half. And that's a big undertaking."
Townsend admits to being more "hands-on" than the average commander's wife. But as challenging as it may be to work with families throughout a long deployment, it's gratifying as well, she said. "I couldn't see myself doing it any other way," she said, noting that the soldiers' families become her own family while her husband is deployed.
Marsh compared the bonds that form within the Rear D to those that soldiers develop on the battlefield. It's a bond he called critical to the brigade's mission, because it ensures that deployed troops can focus on their mission, and not be distracted by unmet needs at home.
"This dynamic brings the warfighter confidence and stability," he said. "Their mind is so engaged on staying alive that if they had to worry about what goes on back here, they couldn't do their job."
"If things are going OK back here, then he can focus on what he should be focused on," Pacheco agreed. "And that's our job back here: to take care of families, pride them with resources and compassion."
Monday, September 10, 2007
History Of 9/11 Attack On The Pentagon Published
The Department of Defense has announced today that the Historical Office of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, in collaboration with the Naval Historical Center and with the assistance of the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps historical offices, has published a detailed, carefully documented history of the Sept. 11, 2001, attack on the Pentagon.
Copies are available today for sale from the U.S. Government Printing Office at 1-(866) 512-1800 or online at http://bookstore.gpo.gov/collections/pentagon911.jsp. "Pentagon 9/11"is the most comprehensive account to date of the attack and its aftermath, examining both the impact of the deadly assault on the Pentagon building and its occupants and the compelling rescue and recovery effort that followed.
Five authors, led by Office of the Secretary of Defense Historian Alfred Goldberg, worked from more than 1,300 oral history interviews to produce a sweeping narrative in words and pictures, including many previously unpublished photographs, that provides graphic testimony to the scale and force of the attack and the strength and courage of survivors, rescuers, and responders who fought the fires, ensured security, and cared for the dying and injured. Publication of this important volume coincides with the sixth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attack.
Copies are available today for sale from the U.S. Government Printing Office at 1-(866) 512-1800 or online at http://bookstore.gpo.gov/collections/pentagon911.jsp. "Pentagon 9/11"is the most comprehensive account to date of the attack and its aftermath, examining both the impact of the deadly assault on the Pentagon building and its occupants and the compelling rescue and recovery effort that followed.
Five authors, led by Office of the Secretary of Defense Historian Alfred Goldberg, worked from more than 1,300 oral history interviews to produce a sweeping narrative in words and pictures, including many previously unpublished photographs, that provides graphic testimony to the scale and force of the attack and the strength and courage of survivors, rescuers, and responders who fought the fires, ensured security, and cared for the dying and injured. Publication of this important volume coincides with the sixth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attack.
All Services Meet Active-Duty Recruiting Goals for August
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 10, 2007 - All four services reported strong recruiting success in August, with the Army marking its second consecutive month exceeding its monthly goal, Defense Department officials announced today. The Army topped its August goal by 6 percent, bringing 10,126 new soldiers into the force. The Army made 102 percent of its goal in July. Officials expressed confidence that the consecutive successes mark a turnaround from May and June, when the Army fell short in recruiting.
Army Maj. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, commander of U.S. Army Recruiting Command, attributes much of the rebound to the Army's new "quick-ship" bonus program that provides $20,000 in financial incentives for recruits willing to ship off quickly to basic training.
Bostick told Pentagon reporters last week that it's one of several initiatives the Army has put in place to ensure it meets its fiscal 2007 recruiting goals. He vowed to close any remaining gaps by Sept. 30 to meet the active Army's year-end goal of 80,000 recruits and the Army Reserve's goal of 26,500.
The other services enjoyed strong recruiting months in August, too. The Marine Corps topped its monthly goal by 5 percent, bringing in 4,700 new Marines. The Navy and Air Force both reached their goals, 4,194 and 3,128, respectively.
In the reserve components, the Army Reserve reported a successful August, too, reaching 107 percent of its monthly goal. As it brought in 3,659 recruits, it also exceeded its retention goals for first-termers as well as career soldiers.
"That's remarkable," said Command Sgt. Maj. Leon Caffie, the Army Reserve's top noncommissioned officer. "If you look at the stats for soldiers who have been deployed in the Army Reserve, those retention rates are astronomical, as well. ... We have done a remarkable job of retaining soldiers with combat experience, who have deployed into either Afghanistan or Iraq."
The Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve also exceeded their August goals. The Navy Reserve topped its goal by 13 percent, with 1,122 new recruits, and the Marine Corps Reserve, by 18 percent, with 560 recruits. The Air Force met its goal, recruiting 858 airmen.
The Army National Guard and Air National Guard fell short, 87 and 96 percent, respectively. The Army Guard recruited 5,596 soldiers, and the Air Guard, 1,141 airmen.
National Guard officials noted that despite a slight recruiting shortfall, both components continue to enjoy strong retention numbers. They said this has enabled them to maintain their end-strength goals at 101 and 99 percent, respectively.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 10, 2007 - All four services reported strong recruiting success in August, with the Army marking its second consecutive month exceeding its monthly goal, Defense Department officials announced today. The Army topped its August goal by 6 percent, bringing 10,126 new soldiers into the force. The Army made 102 percent of its goal in July. Officials expressed confidence that the consecutive successes mark a turnaround from May and June, when the Army fell short in recruiting.
Army Maj. Gen. Thomas P. Bostick, commander of U.S. Army Recruiting Command, attributes much of the rebound to the Army's new "quick-ship" bonus program that provides $20,000 in financial incentives for recruits willing to ship off quickly to basic training.
Bostick told Pentagon reporters last week that it's one of several initiatives the Army has put in place to ensure it meets its fiscal 2007 recruiting goals. He vowed to close any remaining gaps by Sept. 30 to meet the active Army's year-end goal of 80,000 recruits and the Army Reserve's goal of 26,500.
The other services enjoyed strong recruiting months in August, too. The Marine Corps topped its monthly goal by 5 percent, bringing in 4,700 new Marines. The Navy and Air Force both reached their goals, 4,194 and 3,128, respectively.
In the reserve components, the Army Reserve reported a successful August, too, reaching 107 percent of its monthly goal. As it brought in 3,659 recruits, it also exceeded its retention goals for first-termers as well as career soldiers.
"That's remarkable," said Command Sgt. Maj. Leon Caffie, the Army Reserve's top noncommissioned officer. "If you look at the stats for soldiers who have been deployed in the Army Reserve, those retention rates are astronomical, as well. ... We have done a remarkable job of retaining soldiers with combat experience, who have deployed into either Afghanistan or Iraq."
The Navy Reserve and Marine Corps Reserve also exceeded their August goals. The Navy Reserve topped its goal by 13 percent, with 1,122 new recruits, and the Marine Corps Reserve, by 18 percent, with 560 recruits. The Air Force met its goal, recruiting 858 airmen.
The Army National Guard and Air National Guard fell short, 87 and 96 percent, respectively. The Army Guard recruited 5,596 soldiers, and the Air Guard, 1,141 airmen.
National Guard officials noted that despite a slight recruiting shortfall, both components continue to enjoy strong retention numbers. They said this has enabled them to maintain their end-strength goals at 101 and 99 percent, respectively.
Verbal Judo Way of Leadership
The Verbal Judo Institute is pleased to announce that the latest book written by Dr. George "Rhino" Thompson, “The Verbal Judo Way of Leadership—Empowering the Thin Blue Line from the Inside Up," is now available!
For many years Dr. Thompson has sought to present the Verbal Judo philosophy on leadership in written form. "The Verbal Judo Way of Leadership" is a unique co-authorship between George Thompson, founder and president of The Verbal Judo Institute and VJ instructor/retired "Green Beret" Greg Walker.
This book features exclusive new material on the art of Tactical Communications and the elusive art of superior leadership. Dr. Thompson and Greg Walker combine their diverse professional backgrounds with their shared vision of Verbal Judo concepts to help Peace Officers achieve excellence as law enforcement supervisors, managers, administrators, and beyond. Drawing from Dr. Thompson's street and courtroom proven Verbal Judo philosophy and his co-author's dual careers as an Army Special Forces combat leader and civilian peace officer "The Verbal Judo Way of Leadership –Empowering the Thin Blue Line from the Inside Up" is MUST reading for the 21st Century law enforcement officer, First Responder, and military man or woman intent on achieving true success as a leader in his or her chosen profession.
For additional information, please review the attached Verbal Judo Merchandise Catalog or visit our www.verbaljudo.com.
For many years Dr. Thompson has sought to present the Verbal Judo philosophy on leadership in written form. "The Verbal Judo Way of Leadership" is a unique co-authorship between George Thompson, founder and president of The Verbal Judo Institute and VJ instructor/retired "Green Beret" Greg Walker.
This book features exclusive new material on the art of Tactical Communications and the elusive art of superior leadership. Dr. Thompson and Greg Walker combine their diverse professional backgrounds with their shared vision of Verbal Judo concepts to help Peace Officers achieve excellence as law enforcement supervisors, managers, administrators, and beyond. Drawing from Dr. Thompson's street and courtroom proven Verbal Judo philosophy and his co-author's dual careers as an Army Special Forces combat leader and civilian peace officer "The Verbal Judo Way of Leadership –Empowering the Thin Blue Line from the Inside Up" is MUST reading for the 21st Century law enforcement officer, First Responder, and military man or woman intent on achieving true success as a leader in his or her chosen profession.
For additional information, please review the attached Verbal Judo Merchandise Catalog or visit our www.verbaljudo.com.
Freedom Walk Helps Groups Spread Word
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - As thousands of people filled the Pentagon parking lot at the end of the third America Supports You Freedom Walk today, they were greeted by groups individually working toward the collective goal of supporting troops and their families. Representatives of more than 20 groups that support America Supports You were on hand to let people know what they do for the troops. America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The groups, which send care packages and letters, offer support to wounded servicemembers, and assist military families agreed the walk gave them the opportunity to tell the participants how they could support the troops.
"There's a lot of people out there that don't realize that you can write to a servicemember," said Kristen Petrella, president of the New Jersey-based Hugs from Home, a letter-writing group. "We're going to ... let them know that, 'Yes, you can do that.'"
Landstuhl Hospital Care Project, treasurer Sharon Buck, said her group participated for the same reason. "Our purpose today is to hand out pamphlets if people are interested in learning what our mission is," she said.
The project supports the chaplains' center at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, Buck said. Its support arrives at the chaplains' center in the form of a black backpack containing basic necessities that wounded servicemembers may need but not have when they arrive in Germany, such as underwear, T-shirts, toiletries and other needed items.
Another group participating in the post-Freedom Walk activities, Soldiers' Angels, successfully spread the word about its efforts by attracting walkers like Karina Rollins with the opportunity to write a message to the troops. The Washington resident, who plans to "adopt" a servicemember through the group, said supporting the troops is a must for her despite not having any ties to the military.
"I do not have a family member or a friend who is in Iraq, so it's not a personal thing in that sense," Rollins said. "We need to show them that we care about more than getting soy lattes and watching 'American Idol.' We need to show that we understand that there is something very big and important going on."
The support groups and walkers said the Freedom Walk did just that, and has done so since the inaugural event on the fourth anniversary of the attacks.
"We need to keep the memory alive," Carol Watanabe, lead volunteer with Little Patriots Embraced, a Missouri group, said. "It's important to rally the American people and make them understand that we support ... our troops.
"There's nothing more important than our troops knowing that we are standing behind them," she said.
Little Patriots Embraced works to relieve stress on the families of deployed servicemembers through care packages that include teddy bears, writing journals and blankets for newborns, Watanabe said.
Cindi Bookout, president of Operation Homefront's D.C. Metro chapter, agreed that letting troops and their families know they have support is paramount. Her group accomplishes this through chapters in 31 states that provide support to the families of deployed servicemembers.
"The Freedom Walk is important because it lets (servicemembers) know that there are thousands of people all over the United States – not just here in Washington, D.C., but all over the (country) – that support our servicemembers," she said.
With more than 230 walks scheduled to take place between yesterday and Sept. 11, in all 50 states and 10 countries, Americans are doing just that -- thanking those who serve, remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and commemorating the tragic events of six years ago.
This year's America Supports You Freedom Walk began at the Lincoln Memorial and ended with a musical tribute by the Harlem Gospel Choir in the Pentagon's parking lot.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - As thousands of people filled the Pentagon parking lot at the end of the third America Supports You Freedom Walk today, they were greeted by groups individually working toward the collective goal of supporting troops and their families. Representatives of more than 20 groups that support America Supports You were on hand to let people know what they do for the troops. America Supports You is a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The groups, which send care packages and letters, offer support to wounded servicemembers, and assist military families agreed the walk gave them the opportunity to tell the participants how they could support the troops.
"There's a lot of people out there that don't realize that you can write to a servicemember," said Kristen Petrella, president of the New Jersey-based Hugs from Home, a letter-writing group. "We're going to ... let them know that, 'Yes, you can do that.'"
Landstuhl Hospital Care Project, treasurer Sharon Buck, said her group participated for the same reason. "Our purpose today is to hand out pamphlets if people are interested in learning what our mission is," she said.
The project supports the chaplains' center at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, Buck said. Its support arrives at the chaplains' center in the form of a black backpack containing basic necessities that wounded servicemembers may need but not have when they arrive in Germany, such as underwear, T-shirts, toiletries and other needed items.
Another group participating in the post-Freedom Walk activities, Soldiers' Angels, successfully spread the word about its efforts by attracting walkers like Karina Rollins with the opportunity to write a message to the troops. The Washington resident, who plans to "adopt" a servicemember through the group, said supporting the troops is a must for her despite not having any ties to the military.
"I do not have a family member or a friend who is in Iraq, so it's not a personal thing in that sense," Rollins said. "We need to show them that we care about more than getting soy lattes and watching 'American Idol.' We need to show that we understand that there is something very big and important going on."
The support groups and walkers said the Freedom Walk did just that, and has done so since the inaugural event on the fourth anniversary of the attacks.
"We need to keep the memory alive," Carol Watanabe, lead volunteer with Little Patriots Embraced, a Missouri group, said. "It's important to rally the American people and make them understand that we support ... our troops.
"There's nothing more important than our troops knowing that we are standing behind them," she said.
Little Patriots Embraced works to relieve stress on the families of deployed servicemembers through care packages that include teddy bears, writing journals and blankets for newborns, Watanabe said.
Cindi Bookout, president of Operation Homefront's D.C. Metro chapter, agreed that letting troops and their families know they have support is paramount. Her group accomplishes this through chapters in 31 states that provide support to the families of deployed servicemembers.
"The Freedom Walk is important because it lets (servicemembers) know that there are thousands of people all over the United States – not just here in Washington, D.C., but all over the (country) – that support our servicemembers," she said.
With more than 230 walks scheduled to take place between yesterday and Sept. 11, in all 50 states and 10 countries, Americans are doing just that -- thanking those who serve, remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and commemorating the tragic events of six years ago.
This year's America Supports You Freedom Walk began at the Lincoln Memorial and ended with a musical tribute by the Harlem Gospel Choir in the Pentagon's parking lot.
Thousands Commemorate Sept. 11 Anniversary During Freedom Walk
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - In stark contrast to Sept. 11, 2001, when thousands fled the burning Pentagon building, today thousands walked toward it during the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk honoring those killed in the 9/11 attacks and the nation's veterans, past and present. Thousands assembled early today at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, enjoying a picture-perfect morning reminiscent of the one shattered six years ago during terror attacks at the Pentagon, New York's World Trade Center and in Shanksville, Pa.
The crowd represented a cross-section of America -- all ages, races and backgrounds – but shared a common focus as their procession streamed along the mile-and-a-half route from the National Mall to the Pentagon.
Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright, deputy chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised the Freedom Walk as a way to recognize not just those killed on Sept. 11, but also those who have suffered since then preserving the freedoms attacked that day.
"This demonstrates that there is still great recognition of all the military people and civilians who have supported this effort, and the contributions and sacrifices they have made," he said.
"It's become a great tradition," agreed Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter. "We're gathered here to mark the memory of those lost on 9/11 and since in the conflict, and to show the consolidated support."
Retired Army Lt. Col. Deborah Ivory was among the many participants who have sacrificed personally. Her soldier husband, Sgt. Maj. Lacey Ivory, was killed during the Pentagon attack.
"My husband died a horrible death, so whenever there is a way for me to honor my husband and his memory, I will participate," Ivory said as she pushed her grandmother's wheelchair along the route.
Ivory said her family, all sporting buttons with her late husband's smiling face, find comfort as they take part in the annual Freedom Walk. "The fact that everyone has come together to honor the fallen really warms my heart," she said. "The first time I did it, I cried the whole time. It's all been so healing for me."
Army Capt. Kent Solheim, his leg elevated in a wheelchair and a Purple Heart pinned to his T-shirt, called his first Freedom Walk an important way to honor troops killed or wounded battling terrorism.
"We can never forget this," said Solheim, a special operator from Fort Bragg, N.C., being treated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for four gunshot wounds he suffered in Iraq in late July. "It's paramount that we always remember those killed on Sept. 11, who paid the price, and all those who have paid the price since." He's said it's particularly important to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. "They're the real heroes," he said.
Propelling his own wheelchair throughout the route, Solheim said events like the Freedom Walk ensure that the country never forgets what happened on Sept. 11, and pass those memories on to future generations. "If we don't do this stuff now, how are our kids going to know what happened?" he asked.
As they gathered to begin today's walk, participants waved flags as Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England told them the only reason terrorists killed nearly 3,000 Americans on Sept. 11 was that they didn't know how to kill more. The crowd cheered when England told them the United States will do "whatever we need to do to protect and defend our freedoms and our liberties."
England and Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, led the Freedom Walk participants past the Lincoln Memorial and across Memorial Bridge, where sunlight sparkled on the Potomac River below.
Gainey's wife, Cindy, walked at his side as she observed her birthday today. "I asked her how she wanted to celebrate, and this is what she wanted to do," Gainey said of his wife.
Cindy Gainey said she could think of no better way to spend her special day than recognizing what the troops do for the country.
"You hear a lot about support for the troops, but actions speak louder than words. People here are showing their support and demonstrating that they appreciate our military," she said. "This validates everything that they are doing."
While recognizing the freedoms servicemembers are protecting, Command Sgt. Maj. Gainey said, the Freedom Walk helps maintain focus on what he called this generation's Pearl Harbor.
"Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen recognize more than anyone that that day changed our lives forever," he said. "This is another way of reminding people that we can never forget what happened that day."
Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Paul McGinnis led a formation of 37 Navy Sea Cadets across Memorial Bridge into Virginia. The group, calling cadence as it marched, has participated in the Freedom Walk every year since it started in 2004. "We believe in it, we believe in what it's honoring, and we believe in the importance of remembering what happened on 9/11," he said. "It will happen again if we don't."
Approaching Arlington National Cemetery, with Lee Mansion standing majestically overhead, Army Sgt. Larry Miller pushed a stroller with his two children, Jacob, 5, and Kyla, 4. With his wife, Holly, at his side, Miller said the Freedom Walk is particularly meaningful to him because he was serving at nearby Fort Meade, Md., on 9/11, has deployed to Iraq, and hails from New York.
"It's personal for me," said Miller, a medic now stationed at Fort Belvoir, Va. "I wanted to be here because this is a good event and a good cause."
Equally important, he said, the Freedom Walk offers a reminder to people whose lives have returned to normal since 9/11 that their armed forces remain on guard, protecting the freedoms that were attacked that day. "A lot of people outside the military don't realize what we do on an everyday basis," Miller said. "This helps remind them."
Passing the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, Marine Corps Capt. Chad Carbone carried his 2-year-old son, Nathan, on his shoulders. At his side walked 11-year-old nephew Hayden, whose father, Maj. Dave Bardorf, is at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms, Calif., preparing for his third deployment to Iraq.
"He's out there risking his life for us," said Hayden of his father. "This shows that we're supporting him."
Support for the military is nothing new for the Bardorf family. Hayden's mother, Rene Bardorf, who also walked today, helped found the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund for families of Marines and sailors wounded during combat or training. Young Hayden helped set up and run a lemonade stand at Quantico, Va., to raise money for the project.
"We're walking as a family because we all recognize the importance of showing our support," said Carbone, who served at Quantico, Va. "We're all here to support the cause."
As the procession approached the Pentagon, Army Sgt. Michael Halmon and Staff Sgt. Curtis Taylor, both Iraqi war veterans from the 55th Sustainment Brigade at Fort Belvoir, Va., reflected on the message the Freedom Walk sends to the men and women in uniform.
"This shows that we remember the people killed on 9/11 and support our fallen comrades," said Halmon, his children Rachael and Lafayette at his side.
It also sends a message to children that the lessons of Sept. 11 can never be forgotten, Taylor said. "It's important for kids to remember, too. This is a part of history. It's something we can never forget."
Nearing the Pentagon parking lot, Department of Agriculture employee Gloria Chance hoisted an "Agriculture" sign, one of several denoting various federal agency employee groups participating in the Freedom Walk.
Chance said she rarely misses church on a Sunday morning, but considered today's Freedom Walk a worthy exception. "Being here is my Christian duty and my civic duty," she said.
"It's so important that we as a country embrace the freedoms we have and recognize that Sept. 11 was a direct assault against all of us," she said. "We need to remember that so it doesn't ever happen again -- because when you forget the past, that's when it comes right back at you."
Navy Airman Zachary Reich and his wife, Nicole, streamed past a giant American flag hanging from the side of the Pentagon building, reminiscent of the flag hung six years ago, hours after the Sept. 11 attack.
Nicole, nine months pregnant and expecting to give birth to her son, Boston, "any time now," said she considers the Freedom Walk an important first lesson for her son that she plans to reinforce throughout his life.
"I'll be able to tell him that he was a part of this and what it all meant," she said, looking down at the belly bulging beneath her Freedom Walk T-shirt. "Hopefully this will help motivate him so he can go out and do his part, too, to support his community and his country."
As the Freedom Walk participants finished their walk at the Pentagon parking lot, they sipped water and clapped to the sounds of the Harlem Gospel Choir and the Army Field Band's Jazz Ambassadors.
Kelly Wright, co-anchor of Fox & Friends Weekend and a former Army sergeant, served as emcee at the closing concert. Wright noted the appropriateness of starting the Freedom Walk in the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial, which honors a man who knew how precious freedom is, and how high its cost is.
Equally symbolic, he said, was its ending point, just steps from the site where 184 lives were snuffed out on Sept. 11, 2001, he said. Wright told the group he hopes their participation in the Freedom Walk serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the lessons of 9/11.
"The Freedom Walk celebrates our freedom and reminds us of the sacrifice that's been made – and continues to be made," he said.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - In stark contrast to Sept. 11, 2001, when thousands fled the burning Pentagon building, today thousands walked toward it during the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk honoring those killed in the 9/11 attacks and the nation's veterans, past and present. Thousands assembled early today at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, enjoying a picture-perfect morning reminiscent of the one shattered six years ago during terror attacks at the Pentagon, New York's World Trade Center and in Shanksville, Pa.
The crowd represented a cross-section of America -- all ages, races and backgrounds – but shared a common focus as their procession streamed along the mile-and-a-half route from the National Mall to the Pentagon.
Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright, deputy chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised the Freedom Walk as a way to recognize not just those killed on Sept. 11, but also those who have suffered since then preserving the freedoms attacked that day.
"This demonstrates that there is still great recognition of all the military people and civilians who have supported this effort, and the contributions and sacrifices they have made," he said.
"It's become a great tradition," agreed Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter. "We're gathered here to mark the memory of those lost on 9/11 and since in the conflict, and to show the consolidated support."
Retired Army Lt. Col. Deborah Ivory was among the many participants who have sacrificed personally. Her soldier husband, Sgt. Maj. Lacey Ivory, was killed during the Pentagon attack.
"My husband died a horrible death, so whenever there is a way for me to honor my husband and his memory, I will participate," Ivory said as she pushed her grandmother's wheelchair along the route.
Ivory said her family, all sporting buttons with her late husband's smiling face, find comfort as they take part in the annual Freedom Walk. "The fact that everyone has come together to honor the fallen really warms my heart," she said. "The first time I did it, I cried the whole time. It's all been so healing for me."
Army Capt. Kent Solheim, his leg elevated in a wheelchair and a Purple Heart pinned to his T-shirt, called his first Freedom Walk an important way to honor troops killed or wounded battling terrorism.
"We can never forget this," said Solheim, a special operator from Fort Bragg, N.C., being treated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for four gunshot wounds he suffered in Iraq in late July. "It's paramount that we always remember those killed on Sept. 11, who paid the price, and all those who have paid the price since." He's said it's particularly important to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. "They're the real heroes," he said.
Propelling his own wheelchair throughout the route, Solheim said events like the Freedom Walk ensure that the country never forgets what happened on Sept. 11, and pass those memories on to future generations. "If we don't do this stuff now, how are our kids going to know what happened?" he asked.
As they gathered to begin today's walk, participants waved flags as Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England told them the only reason terrorists killed nearly 3,000 Americans on Sept. 11 was that they didn't know how to kill more. The crowd cheered when England told them the United States will do "whatever we need to do to protect and defend our freedoms and our liberties."
England and Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, led the Freedom Walk participants past the Lincoln Memorial and across Memorial Bridge, where sunlight sparkled on the Potomac River below.
Gainey's wife, Cindy, walked at his side as she observed her birthday today. "I asked her how she wanted to celebrate, and this is what she wanted to do," Gainey said of his wife.
Cindy Gainey said she could think of no better way to spend her special day than recognizing what the troops do for the country.
"You hear a lot about support for the troops, but actions speak louder than words. People here are showing their support and demonstrating that they appreciate our military," she said. "This validates everything that they are doing."
While recognizing the freedoms servicemembers are protecting, Command Sgt. Maj. Gainey said, the Freedom Walk helps maintain focus on what he called this generation's Pearl Harbor.
"Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen recognize more than anyone that that day changed our lives forever," he said. "This is another way of reminding people that we can never forget what happened that day."
Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Paul McGinnis led a formation of 37 Navy Sea Cadets across Memorial Bridge into Virginia. The group, calling cadence as it marched, has participated in the Freedom Walk every year since it started in 2004. "We believe in it, we believe in what it's honoring, and we believe in the importance of remembering what happened on 9/11," he said. "It will happen again if we don't."
Approaching Arlington National Cemetery, with Lee Mansion standing majestically overhead, Army Sgt. Larry Miller pushed a stroller with his two children, Jacob, 5, and Kyla, 4. With his wife, Holly, at his side, Miller said the Freedom Walk is particularly meaningful to him because he was serving at nearby Fort Meade, Md., on 9/11, has deployed to Iraq, and hails from New York.
"It's personal for me," said Miller, a medic now stationed at Fort Belvoir, Va. "I wanted to be here because this is a good event and a good cause."
Equally important, he said, the Freedom Walk offers a reminder to people whose lives have returned to normal since 9/11 that their armed forces remain on guard, protecting the freedoms that were attacked that day. "A lot of people outside the military don't realize what we do on an everyday basis," Miller said. "This helps remind them."
Passing the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, Marine Corps Capt. Chad Carbone carried his 2-year-old son, Nathan, on his shoulders. At his side walked 11-year-old nephew Hayden, whose father, Maj. Dave Bardorf, is at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms, Calif., preparing for his third deployment to Iraq.
"He's out there risking his life for us," said Hayden of his father. "This shows that we're supporting him."
Support for the military is nothing new for the Bardorf family. Hayden's mother, Rene Bardorf, who also walked today, helped found the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund for families of Marines and sailors wounded during combat or training. Young Hayden helped set up and run a lemonade stand at Quantico, Va., to raise money for the project.
"We're walking as a family because we all recognize the importance of showing our support," said Carbone, who served at Quantico, Va. "We're all here to support the cause."
As the procession approached the Pentagon, Army Sgt. Michael Halmon and Staff Sgt. Curtis Taylor, both Iraqi war veterans from the 55th Sustainment Brigade at Fort Belvoir, Va., reflected on the message the Freedom Walk sends to the men and women in uniform.
"This shows that we remember the people killed on 9/11 and support our fallen comrades," said Halmon, his children Rachael and Lafayette at his side.
It also sends a message to children that the lessons of Sept. 11 can never be forgotten, Taylor said. "It's important for kids to remember, too. This is a part of history. It's something we can never forget."
Nearing the Pentagon parking lot, Department of Agriculture employee Gloria Chance hoisted an "Agriculture" sign, one of several denoting various federal agency employee groups participating in the Freedom Walk.
Chance said she rarely misses church on a Sunday morning, but considered today's Freedom Walk a worthy exception. "Being here is my Christian duty and my civic duty," she said.
"It's so important that we as a country embrace the freedoms we have and recognize that Sept. 11 was a direct assault against all of us," she said. "We need to remember that so it doesn't ever happen again -- because when you forget the past, that's when it comes right back at you."
Navy Airman Zachary Reich and his wife, Nicole, streamed past a giant American flag hanging from the side of the Pentagon building, reminiscent of the flag hung six years ago, hours after the Sept. 11 attack.
Nicole, nine months pregnant and expecting to give birth to her son, Boston, "any time now," said she considers the Freedom Walk an important first lesson for her son that she plans to reinforce throughout his life.
"I'll be able to tell him that he was a part of this and what it all meant," she said, looking down at the belly bulging beneath her Freedom Walk T-shirt. "Hopefully this will help motivate him so he can go out and do his part, too, to support his community and his country."
As the Freedom Walk participants finished their walk at the Pentagon parking lot, they sipped water and clapped to the sounds of the Harlem Gospel Choir and the Army Field Band's Jazz Ambassadors.
Kelly Wright, co-anchor of Fox & Friends Weekend and a former Army sergeant, served as emcee at the closing concert. Wright noted the appropriateness of starting the Freedom Walk in the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial, which honors a man who knew how precious freedom is, and how high its cost is.
Equally symbolic, he said, was its ending point, just steps from the site where 184 lives were snuffed out on Sept. 11, 2001, he said. Wright told the group he hopes their participation in the Freedom Walk serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the lessons of 9/11.
"The Freedom Walk celebrates our freedom and reminds us of the sacrifice that's been made – and continues to be made," he said.
Brooks and Dunn, Toyota Salute Troops
By Willard Thomas
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - More than 50 servicemembers not only enjoyed front-row seats at a Brooks and Dunn concert here last night, but also were guests at a backstage reception where they got a handshake and the personal thanks of the country music giants. The tab for this special recognition event was picked up by Toyota Motor Sales USA, who invited the troops as part of becoming a corporate supporter of "America Supports You," a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The servicemembers topped off the evening as on-stage guests of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn. The singers saluted them and all their military teammates with the song they use to end all of their concerts: "Only in America."
The host for the event was Don Esmond, Toyota's senior vice president of automotive operations, who earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service as a Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam.
Toyota's affiliation with America Supports You is an expansion of an on-going commitment to troop support. The automaker already was involved with programs such as Hire-A-Hero, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and the Camp Pendleton Concert Series.
"We have a civic duty to keep our troops top of mind as they defend our freedoms, and Toyota is happy to help bring the America Supports You message to the public through these key, grassroots partnerships," Esmond said.
Brooks and Dunn also are supporters of "America Supports You," along with hundreds of other corporations and organizations.
(Willard Thomas is a retired Marine artillery officer who is a freelance writer for military publications and is writing a book about war.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - More than 50 servicemembers not only enjoyed front-row seats at a Brooks and Dunn concert here last night, but also were guests at a backstage reception where they got a handshake and the personal thanks of the country music giants. The tab for this special recognition event was picked up by Toyota Motor Sales USA, who invited the troops as part of becoming a corporate supporter of "America Supports You," a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
The servicemembers topped off the evening as on-stage guests of Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn. The singers saluted them and all their military teammates with the song they use to end all of their concerts: "Only in America."
The host for the event was Don Esmond, Toyota's senior vice president of automotive operations, who earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service as a Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam.
Toyota's affiliation with America Supports You is an expansion of an on-going commitment to troop support. The automaker already was involved with programs such as Hire-A-Hero, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and the Camp Pendleton Concert Series.
"We have a civic duty to keep our troops top of mind as they defend our freedoms, and Toyota is happy to help bring the America Supports You message to the public through these key, grassroots partnerships," Esmond said.
Brooks and Dunn also are supporters of "America Supports You," along with hundreds of other corporations and organizations.
(Willard Thomas is a retired Marine artillery officer who is a freelance writer for military publications and is writing a book about war.)
Thousands Take Part in America Supports You Freedom Walk
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - In the shadow of the Washington Monument and under the watchful eyes of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial, some 8,000 participants gathered at the National Mall here to walk in the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk. America Supports You, a Defense Department program that connects citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families, hosted the event to honor past and present servicemembers and to remember victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. In addition to the Freedom Walk here, 230 similar walks are occurring in cities around the world.
Looking upon the throngs of people gathered on the mall, many of whom donned red, white and blue attire, Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, became overwhelmed with emotion.
"I'm not usually an emotional guy. I'm not a crier," he told American Forces Press Service . "But right now when I'm looking around, I'm crying inside and I'm being truthful with you. I never could be prouder to be American than right now.
"This walk shows that the people in the airplanes, in the (World Trade Center) towers and in the Pentagon did not die in vain, and the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines dying now are not dying in vain," Gainey continued. "Don't let this be a one-day walk. Every time you're walking, and you see a veteran or someone you think is a (servicemember), stop and thank them."
Speaking to participants who lined the reflecting pool before the walk, Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England said America has been blessed with 230 years of freedom and liberty.
"But that is not an unalienable right that we have," England said. "It is something that needs to be protected and cherished and fought for by every single generation, and we are blessed that we have brave Americans every day that go forth and protect our freedom and liberty and have done so for these 230 years."
England told the crowd that the terrorists, who perpetrated the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and claimed nearly 3,000 lives, would have inflicted greater harm if possible. Such enemies continue to plot attacks against innocent Americans, he said. "So this is a day of reflection, it's a day of remembrance, but it's also a day of commitment...that we will do whatever we need to do to protect and defend our freedoms and our liberties," he added.
After England's remarks, thousands of hands made their way over people's hearts when Army Spc. Vicki Golding, from the Washington National Guard's 457th Army Band, sang a soulful rendition of the National Anthem. Heads bowed in unison as an Army chaplain led the audience in prayer for terrorist attack victims, and servicemembers who have fought and died for their country in past wars and current operations.
"I go back to the Vietnam-era, and to see the support we get from the public now versus what it was in the Vietnam-era is incredible," said Freedom Walk participant Army Col. Wayne Woodard. "For me to see the transition is just unbelievable."
Woodard works as a member of the Joint Staff, whose office is at the Pentagon where the Freedom Walk concludes. "If I have a chance to contribute to others who are less fortunate than me, in terms of them being away from home and me being home, any time I can show support I view that as a great opportunity," he said.
The Air Force band struck up John Phillip Sousa's "The Washington Post March" as walkers began ambling next to the reflecting pool. The walk route would take participants next to the Lincoln Memorial and over the Memorial Bridge en route to the Pentagon.
For Air Force Capt. Robert Acosta, participating in today's walk helped him preserve the memory of Sept. 11, 2001, victims, and to show support for deployed troops serving abroad.
"When we come together collectively as one, I think it demonstrates not only to our troops overseas, but the rest of the world, that we care," he said. "It's important that we stand together in times like this to really push forward our togetherness."
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 9, 2007 - In the shadow of the Washington Monument and under the watchful eyes of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial, some 8,000 participants gathered at the National Mall here to walk in the third annual America Supports You Freedom Walk. America Supports You, a Defense Department program that connects citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families, hosted the event to honor past and present servicemembers and to remember victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. In addition to the Freedom Walk here, 230 similar walks are occurring in cities around the world.
Looking upon the throngs of people gathered on the mall, many of whom donned red, white and blue attire, Army Command Sgt. Maj. William J. Gainey, senior enlisted advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, became overwhelmed with emotion.
"I'm not usually an emotional guy. I'm not a crier," he told American Forces Press Service . "But right now when I'm looking around, I'm crying inside and I'm being truthful with you. I never could be prouder to be American than right now.
"This walk shows that the people in the airplanes, in the (World Trade Center) towers and in the Pentagon did not die in vain, and the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines dying now are not dying in vain," Gainey continued. "Don't let this be a one-day walk. Every time you're walking, and you see a veteran or someone you think is a (servicemember), stop and thank them."
Speaking to participants who lined the reflecting pool before the walk, Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England said America has been blessed with 230 years of freedom and liberty.
"But that is not an unalienable right that we have," England said. "It is something that needs to be protected and cherished and fought for by every single generation, and we are blessed that we have brave Americans every day that go forth and protect our freedom and liberty and have done so for these 230 years."
England told the crowd that the terrorists, who perpetrated the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and claimed nearly 3,000 lives, would have inflicted greater harm if possible. Such enemies continue to plot attacks against innocent Americans, he said. "So this is a day of reflection, it's a day of remembrance, but it's also a day of commitment...that we will do whatever we need to do to protect and defend our freedoms and our liberties," he added.
After England's remarks, thousands of hands made their way over people's hearts when Army Spc. Vicki Golding, from the Washington National Guard's 457th Army Band, sang a soulful rendition of the National Anthem. Heads bowed in unison as an Army chaplain led the audience in prayer for terrorist attack victims, and servicemembers who have fought and died for their country in past wars and current operations.
"I go back to the Vietnam-era, and to see the support we get from the public now versus what it was in the Vietnam-era is incredible," said Freedom Walk participant Army Col. Wayne Woodard. "For me to see the transition is just unbelievable."
Woodard works as a member of the Joint Staff, whose office is at the Pentagon where the Freedom Walk concludes. "If I have a chance to contribute to others who are less fortunate than me, in terms of them being away from home and me being home, any time I can show support I view that as a great opportunity," he said.
The Air Force band struck up John Phillip Sousa's "The Washington Post March" as walkers began ambling next to the reflecting pool. The walk route would take participants next to the Lincoln Memorial and over the Memorial Bridge en route to the Pentagon.
For Air Force Capt. Robert Acosta, participating in today's walk helped him preserve the memory of Sept. 11, 2001, victims, and to show support for deployed troops serving abroad.
"When we come together collectively as one, I think it demonstrates not only to our troops overseas, but the rest of the world, that we care," he said. "It's important that we stand together in times like this to really push forward our togetherness."
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Police Books from California Police Officers
Editor's Note: One of the authors is a former servicemember.
Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. Police-Writers.com added three police officers from California who have written books.
Dr. Douglas W. Perez is an Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at the State University of New York, Plattsburg. From 1970 to 1975, Douglas Perez was a deputy sheriff for the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office (California). Currently, Dr. Douglas Perez teaches courses in the criminal justice field and has significant experience also in the sociological theory area. His classroom foci include the study of the police, law and society, the drug war, and introductory level courses. Dr. Douglas Perez is the author of The Paradoxes of Police Work and Common Sense about Police Review. His is also the co-author of Police Ethics: A Matter of Character.
According to the book description of Police Ethics: A Matter of Character, “Police officers make thousands of important, life-changing decisions everyday. In order to promote and ensure justice, these decisions must be fair and even-handed. Police officers cannot think or act as if they are free to define what is legal and what is illegal or to decide who is inherently good and who is inherently bad. They must act in an ethical manner. Yet, police officers are given a limited amount of training in police ethics.”
At the age of 14, Jim Wagner began to his life long pursuit of self-defense by beginning his study of the marital arts. Four years later he joined the United States Army. In 1991 Jim Wagner, sponsored by the Costa Mesa Police Department, entered the police academy (Orange County Sheriff’s Department Training Academy Class 104). Like his military training before, Jim Wagner was deeply influenced by the police academy’s realistic conflict scenarios.
During his career with the Costa Mesa Police Department, Jim Wagner earned a place on the SWAT team. It was through this conduit that Jim learned about logistics, command post operations, hostage negotiations, entry team tactics, and sniping. On the job training included courses with LAPD SWAT, the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Training Center, and from U.S. Marines Division Schools Camp Pendleton (Advanced Sniper Course, Military Operations Urban Terrain, Helicopter Rope Suspension Training, and Range Safety Officer).
While conducting a myriad of courses at Camp Pendleton, both military units and other law enforcement agencies using the base for their own training discovered Jim Wagner’s unique approach to training and his seamless blending of defensive tactics with edged weapons and firearms skills. Before long he was getting offers from the United States Marine Corps, U.S. Marshals Special Operations Group, Department of Defense Police, California Highway Patrol, California Department of Corrections, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Probation Department, U.S. Border Patrol, Immigration & Naturalization Service, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines Provost Marshal Office, Drug Enforcement Administration. By 1996 Jim found himself being invited by foreign unit to train in their own countries: GermanGSG9, Brazilian G.A.T.E., Argentinean G.O.E., Royal Canadian Mounted Police, London Metropolitan Police, Helsinki Police Department, and various units in Spain, Mexico, and Israel.
The demand on Jim Wagner’s time was overwhelming and in 1999 he decided to resign from the Costa Mesa Police Department and started teaching full time. Not wanting to fully give up his law enforcement career Jim applied as a Reserve Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Jim Wagner is the author of Reality Based Personal Protection.
Designed as a companion book to Jim Wagner’s best-selling instructional DVD series, Reality-Based Personal Protection provides eight detailed chapters. According to the book description, “Reality-Based Personal Protection system covers the complete tactical spectrum of pre-conflict, conflict and post-conflict techniques and training methods for a wide variety of worst-case scenarios. Mastering these tactics will educate you on the dangers of the modern world and how to survive them.”
David A. Hansen was a captain with the Daly City Police Department (California). He is the author of Police Ethics, An Analysis of Police Concepts and Programs, The Police Training Officer, Closed Circuit Television for Police and The Police Leader: A Handbook.
Police-Writers.com now hosts 732 police officers (representing 339 police departments) and their 1568 police 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. Police-Writers.com added three police officers from California who have written books.
Dr. Douglas W. Perez is an Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at the State University of New York, Plattsburg. From 1970 to 1975, Douglas Perez was a deputy sheriff for the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office (California). Currently, Dr. Douglas Perez teaches courses in the criminal justice field and has significant experience also in the sociological theory area. His classroom foci include the study of the police, law and society, the drug war, and introductory level courses. Dr. Douglas Perez is the author of The Paradoxes of Police Work and Common Sense about Police Review. His is also the co-author of Police Ethics: A Matter of Character.
According to the book description of Police Ethics: A Matter of Character, “Police officers make thousands of important, life-changing decisions everyday. In order to promote and ensure justice, these decisions must be fair and even-handed. Police officers cannot think or act as if they are free to define what is legal and what is illegal or to decide who is inherently good and who is inherently bad. They must act in an ethical manner. Yet, police officers are given a limited amount of training in police ethics.”
At the age of 14, Jim Wagner began to his life long pursuit of self-defense by beginning his study of the marital arts. Four years later he joined the United States Army. In 1991 Jim Wagner, sponsored by the Costa Mesa Police Department, entered the police academy (Orange County Sheriff’s Department Training Academy Class 104). Like his military training before, Jim Wagner was deeply influenced by the police academy’s realistic conflict scenarios.
During his career with the Costa Mesa Police Department, Jim Wagner earned a place on the SWAT team. It was through this conduit that Jim learned about logistics, command post operations, hostage negotiations, entry team tactics, and sniping. On the job training included courses with LAPD SWAT, the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Training Center, and from U.S. Marines Division Schools Camp Pendleton (Advanced Sniper Course, Military Operations Urban Terrain, Helicopter Rope Suspension Training, and Range Safety Officer).
While conducting a myriad of courses at Camp Pendleton, both military units and other law enforcement agencies using the base for their own training discovered Jim Wagner’s unique approach to training and his seamless blending of defensive tactics with edged weapons and firearms skills. Before long he was getting offers from the United States Marine Corps, U.S. Marshals Special Operations Group, Department of Defense Police, California Highway Patrol, California Department of Corrections, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Probation Department, U.S. Border Patrol, Immigration & Naturalization Service, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines Provost Marshal Office, Drug Enforcement Administration. By 1996 Jim found himself being invited by foreign unit to train in their own countries: GermanGSG9, Brazilian G.A.T.E., Argentinean G.O.E., Royal Canadian Mounted Police, London Metropolitan Police, Helsinki Police Department, and various units in Spain, Mexico, and Israel.
The demand on Jim Wagner’s time was overwhelming and in 1999 he decided to resign from the Costa Mesa Police Department and started teaching full time. Not wanting to fully give up his law enforcement career Jim applied as a Reserve Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Jim Wagner is the author of Reality Based Personal Protection.
Designed as a companion book to Jim Wagner’s best-selling instructional DVD series, Reality-Based Personal Protection provides eight detailed chapters. According to the book description, “Reality-Based Personal Protection system covers the complete tactical spectrum of pre-conflict, conflict and post-conflict techniques and training methods for a wide variety of worst-case scenarios. Mastering these tactics will educate you on the dangers of the modern world and how to survive them.”
David A. Hansen was a captain with the Daly City Police Department (California). He is the author of Police Ethics, An Analysis of Police Concepts and Programs, The Police Training Officer, Closed Circuit Television for Police and The Police Leader: A Handbook.
Police-Writers.com now hosts 732 police officers (representing 339 police departments) and their 1568 police 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.
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