Saturday, May 15, 2010
Individual Augmentees: A Family's Perspective
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Mark Logico, Commander Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs
May 15, 2010 - PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The second in a series of Navy Individual Augmentee (IA) perspectives aired on Hawaii Navy News, a weekly program of the Honolulu Fox-affiliated KHON2 TV station on May 13.
Focusing on a family's perspective, Master-at-Arms 1st Class (SW) David Taylor and his wife, Lindsey Hearne, talked about their experiences and the way they coped with the challenges of an IA deployment.
"I've been in the military for 15 years," said Taylor. "I've been on several different deployments. This is actually the first time I've been boots on the ground, actually there, actually involved where I should have been. It was very rewarding for my career."
An IA is a Sailor who is temporarily assigned to augment another command in support of overseas contingencies. The Navy is sending IAs to assist commands in other branches of the service, primarily the Army and Marine Corps. These assignments are not on ships, but on the ground in places like Iraq and Afghanistan.
Taylor served in Kabul, Afghanistan and provided protective security services to the commanding general, International Security Assistance Forces/US Forces Afghanistan from Dec., 2008 to July 2009. Taylor currently serves at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) Security Department, where he is assigned to the Harbor Patrol Unit.
There are some aspects of an IA deployment that present special challenges for Sailors and their families. These include relatively short notice of the deployment, deployments are typically longer than Sailors are used to, training for the deployment is different, and there may be an element of danger not associated with shipboard deployments.
"Basically we worry for him everyday, whether we are going to hear from him or not," said Hearne. "We see a lot of stories on the news. He's always telling me, don't look at the stories. You can see a lot of explosions, and it kind of put a lot of fear in your heart, because you want to make sure that your spouse comes home."
Taylor, who was deployed to Afghanistan for eight months, said what he missed most was the normal day-to-day life.
"When you're moving around inside the country, and you're moving from place to place, there's always the fear," said Taylor. "You always have to be on your guard. You will always have to be what we call: 'amped up and ready to go.' I missed the day-to-day safety and normal day-to-day life. Not having to worry about things blowing up or being shot at or things like that."
Since the Sailor is deploying as an individual, and not with their unit, Sailors and their families may feel somewhat isolated from others in the command. Command ombudsmen help support IAs by providing a resource of information and opening lines of communication between the spouses, Sailors and the command leadership. Hearne is currently the Navy's ombudsman for JBPHH.
"I deal with a lot of IAs now," said Hearne. "I try to get in contact with the spouses and family members every month to make sure that their okay and see if there's anything they want to talk about, basically just having all your life matters in order."
As of March, there are 10,504 Sailors serving in IA assignments. More than 4,000 Sailors are in the pre-deployment status and approximately 1,800 Sailors are in mission-specific training.
National Naval Aviation Museum Symposium Highlights Achievements in Naval Aviation
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rebekah Adler, Navy Public Affair Support Element East
May 14, 2010 - NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The National Naval Aviation Museum recently concluded its two-day 24th annual Naval Aviation Symposium, which featured the enshrinement of Neil Armstrong, who first learned to fly when he was in high school.
"I would like to thank the Naval Aviation Museum for allowing me to join those remarkable individuals who are enshrined in the Hall of Honor," said Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon's surface. "My Navy and my country have given me extraordinary opportunities and I have had the benefit of working with amazing individuals."
Along with his achievements as an astronaut, Armstrong also served as a flying Midshipman and logged 78 combat missions during the Korean War.
The Naval Aviation Hall of Honor was created in 1979 and has selected 84 people for enshrinement.
"The symposium is also a valuable way to educate the public and service members on Naval Aviation's history and achievements," said retired Marine Corps Col. Denis J. Kiely, senior editor, Naval Aviation Museum Foundation and symposium coordinator.
The symposium's other highlights included performances by the Naval Air Station New Orleans Navy Band followed by themed sessions featuring prominent speakers such as author Steven Coonts, who gave a speech at a luncheon on Thursday.
The themed sessions topics included "Genesis: The Birth of Naval Aviation (1898-1914)," "Answering the Call: Naval Aviation's Dynamic Expansion for the Great War" and "Naval Aviation: Issues and Answers." More than 4,000 people were at the event, which sold out both days.
"As for the service members, especially the young officers who are going through flight training, this event is important for their professional military education," Kiely said. "It's part of their heritage, to learn about those who have preceded them. It also teaches them courage, devotion and duty. It also shows the public that Naval aviation has a very rich tradition."
According to Kiely, this year's symposium leads into next year's event which will celebrate the first 100 years of naval aviation and is scheduled for May 2011.
May 14, 2010 - NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The National Naval Aviation Museum recently concluded its two-day 24th annual Naval Aviation Symposium, which featured the enshrinement of Neil Armstrong, who first learned to fly when he was in high school.
"I would like to thank the Naval Aviation Museum for allowing me to join those remarkable individuals who are enshrined in the Hall of Honor," said Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon's surface. "My Navy and my country have given me extraordinary opportunities and I have had the benefit of working with amazing individuals."
Along with his achievements as an astronaut, Armstrong also served as a flying Midshipman and logged 78 combat missions during the Korean War.
The Naval Aviation Hall of Honor was created in 1979 and has selected 84 people for enshrinement.
"The symposium is also a valuable way to educate the public and service members on Naval Aviation's history and achievements," said retired Marine Corps Col. Denis J. Kiely, senior editor, Naval Aviation Museum Foundation and symposium coordinator.
The symposium's other highlights included performances by the Naval Air Station New Orleans Navy Band followed by themed sessions featuring prominent speakers such as author Steven Coonts, who gave a speech at a luncheon on Thursday.
The themed sessions topics included "Genesis: The Birth of Naval Aviation (1898-1914)," "Answering the Call: Naval Aviation's Dynamic Expansion for the Great War" and "Naval Aviation: Issues and Answers." More than 4,000 people were at the event, which sold out both days.
"As for the service members, especially the young officers who are going through flight training, this event is important for their professional military education," Kiely said. "It's part of their heritage, to learn about those who have preceded them. It also teaches them courage, devotion and duty. It also shows the public that Naval aviation has a very rich tradition."
According to Kiely, this year's symposium leads into next year's event which will celebrate the first 100 years of naval aviation and is scheduled for May 2011.
NMCSD Wounded Warriors Participate in Bay Bridge Run
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea A. Radford, Naval Medical Center San Diego Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- For a few hours, 24 Army, Navy and Marine patients from the Balboa Warrior Athlete Program (BWAP) at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) will get the chance to run, walk, or cycle across the Coronado Bridge in the Navy's 24th Original Bay Bridge Run/Walk on May 16, 2010.
This will be the fourth year athletes from the Wounded Warrior program at NMCSD have participated in the event. Registration completely sold out.
The patients from BWAP actively engage in therapy, including physical, occupational and recreational therapy.
"We work so hard in the therapies, it's nice to step back on a Sunday morning and go do the run without all the formalities," said Marla Knox, a recreation therapist with NMCSD.
Knox also commented that being motivated through exercise helps the patients maintain a positive outlook while recovering.
For some patients, this year will be their first time taking part in the Bay Bridge Run/Walk. For others, the run has become an annual event to look forward to.
"I've been doing the Bay Bridge Run every year since I got to Balboa (NMCSD)," said Marine Sgt. Chris Lawrence. "2008 was my first year of the Bay Bridge Run, and I did it in a wheelchair since I had just gotten my leg amputated and had my first prosthetic. In 2009 I walked the entire thing so this year I'm trying to run it- maybe not the full thing, but at least run up the bridge."
Along with the rare opportunity of running or walking across the bridge, the event also contributes to the well-being and therapy of the patients.
"I was still kind of the whole 'woe is me' back in 2008," said Lawrence. "I had just lost my leg, and I was so self conscious, and I didn't think I'd be able to do anything, but then I went up that Bay Bridge. I had to do it in a wheelchair and my arm was messed up, I couldn't use it. I had to one-arm drive the wheelchair, going up the whole bridge with one arm. I had people help me when it got bad. After I got done with that, I realized right there that the only thing holding me back from doing anything is myself, and how I feel. I've done the most ridiculous things now, like a 500 mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The Bay Bridge Run is what broke the ice for me."
On top of the exercise, the occasion gives patients the ability to connect with other people from around the area.
"There's a lot of people out there who actually care about what we do," said Army Spc. Dan Lockey. "It's nice, you get to see them, and they get to see you and show that they really care."
In addition to the wounded, ill or injured service members, staff and family members will be participating alongside the BWAP patients. Athletes will start the event at 8 a.m. in Downtown San Diego near the Convention Center. They will then travel across the bridge in the method of their choosing and finish at Tidelands Park in Coronado.
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- For a few hours, 24 Army, Navy and Marine patients from the Balboa Warrior Athlete Program (BWAP) at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) will get the chance to run, walk, or cycle across the Coronado Bridge in the Navy's 24th Original Bay Bridge Run/Walk on May 16, 2010.
This will be the fourth year athletes from the Wounded Warrior program at NMCSD have participated in the event. Registration completely sold out.
The patients from BWAP actively engage in therapy, including physical, occupational and recreational therapy.
"We work so hard in the therapies, it's nice to step back on a Sunday morning and go do the run without all the formalities," said Marla Knox, a recreation therapist with NMCSD.
Knox also commented that being motivated through exercise helps the patients maintain a positive outlook while recovering.
For some patients, this year will be their first time taking part in the Bay Bridge Run/Walk. For others, the run has become an annual event to look forward to.
"I've been doing the Bay Bridge Run every year since I got to Balboa (NMCSD)," said Marine Sgt. Chris Lawrence. "2008 was my first year of the Bay Bridge Run, and I did it in a wheelchair since I had just gotten my leg amputated and had my first prosthetic. In 2009 I walked the entire thing so this year I'm trying to run it- maybe not the full thing, but at least run up the bridge."
Along with the rare opportunity of running or walking across the bridge, the event also contributes to the well-being and therapy of the patients.
"I was still kind of the whole 'woe is me' back in 2008," said Lawrence. "I had just lost my leg, and I was so self conscious, and I didn't think I'd be able to do anything, but then I went up that Bay Bridge. I had to do it in a wheelchair and my arm was messed up, I couldn't use it. I had to one-arm drive the wheelchair, going up the whole bridge with one arm. I had people help me when it got bad. After I got done with that, I realized right there that the only thing holding me back from doing anything is myself, and how I feel. I've done the most ridiculous things now, like a 500 mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The Bay Bridge Run is what broke the ice for me."
On top of the exercise, the occasion gives patients the ability to connect with other people from around the area.
"There's a lot of people out there who actually care about what we do," said Army Spc. Dan Lockey. "It's nice, you get to see them, and they get to see you and show that they really care."
In addition to the wounded, ill or injured service members, staff and family members will be participating alongside the BWAP patients. Athletes will start the event at 8 a.m. in Downtown San Diego near the Convention Center. They will then travel across the bridge in the method of their choosing and finish at Tidelands Park in Coronado.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Airmen train with Romanian counterparts for the first time
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
5/14/2010 - OTOPENI, Romania (AFNS) -- Airmen from Ramstein Air Base's 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, alongside members of the 37th Airlift Squadron and 435th Contingency Response Group trained with their Romanian counterparts the week of May 10 at Otopeni Airlift Base here.
Operation Carpathian Summer 2010 was designed to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Romanian air forces, while elevating their capability to work together.
Though this is not the first time American Airmen have worked with the Romanian air force, the 86th AES has never before joined in training with their Romanian colleagues.
"This is the first time, to my knowledge, that (the Romanian air force) has ever invited an American aeromedical evacuation squadron to come and compare notes about the process," said Capt. Erskine Cook Jr., an 86th AES flight nurse.
A major goal for U.S. and Romanian servicemembers alike was to identify the differences each nation has in its processes, and see how the two medical units can work around these hurdles in future real-world scenarios.
"(Romanian) equipment works on 220-volt; ours works on 115-volt. That's a big difference," said Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Skiver, the 86th AES superintendent. "We can't take their equipment and use it on our aircraft, unless we are using it on battery power. Equipment is a big issue."
The primary aircraft used by the Romanian AES crews is the Puma helicopter, while U.S. crews add the long-range fixed-wing capability.
"Primarily they are used to rotary wing, short range, for their wounded, so we are really trying to spool up their fixed-wing application," Captain Cook said. "They have recently gotten more aircraft; they want to be more involved in patient transport -- it's the natural evolution."
The teams also found similarities that transcend their disparities.
"The only difference I see is the equipment," said Romanian Air Force Capt. Dragos Tudos, a flight surgeon. "It all does the same thing, but they look different. The actual principle is the same: the people are the same; the way to do things is the same." By working together, the two teams overcame several obstacles in working toward their common goal.
"It's just a matter of seeing what we have to work with and how to best utilize it," Captain Cook said. "We all have the same goal of getting the patient to a more definitive level of care. Any time we can make that happen quicker, faster, better; everybody wins."
The sentiment was echoed by both countries.
"It is not very complicated," Captain Tudos said. "I am a doctor, so the patient is the mission."
The captain went on to say that through all the talks and training, the pieces came together to create an invaluable training scenario for everyone involved.
"We are going to perform a medical evacuation exercise with a helicopter from the Romanian air force and American planes," Captain Tudos said. "We are trying to create as real-to-life (a) scenario as possible."
The joint exercise, while building partnerships between the U.S. and Romanian servicemembers, also laid the foundation for future exercises and operations.
"Our commander and deputy commander have expressed interest in providing more support during exercises," Sergeant Skiver said. "This is our first exercise with Romania, but we have been involved in training with Bulgaria and the Ukraine. We are very involved."
Captain Cook said that Carpathian Summer has certainly opened the door for further training opportunities between the U.S. and Romanian forces.
"I think that we are forging some good bonds here, and (I) look forward to working with them in the future," he said.
Pacific Angel medical team relocates without missing a beat
by Capt. Timothy Lundberg
36th Wing Public Affairs
5/14/2010 - TRUONG THANH, Vietnam (AFNS) -- After providing three days of free medical care to more than 1,200 patients at Can Tho, Vietnam, the U.S. military medical team relocated their mission May 13 here as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2010.
Medical teams from Vietnam and the U.S. began treating residents in Truong Thanh with free healthcare services in pediatrics, optometry, women's health, dentistry and family medicine. The pre-planned move aimed to further outreach efforts to local residents who may have missed the oppurtunity to attend the other medical event held in the Can Tho commmunity.
"It's a great mission," said Nam Long, a Vietnamese medical technician who was working in the pharmacy at the Troung Thanh medical clinic. "We're helping a lot of people who don't have the money to go out and get medication."
When asked about working with U.S. servicemembers, Mr. Long said it was hard working with the language barrier, and although it was difficult and stressful at times, he was happy to help people out.
Staff Sgt. Angela Supina, from the 3rd Medical Group at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, said she has been enjoying her time in Vietnam and has grown very appreciative of life back in the United States.
"It's an amazing experience," Sergeant Supina said. "It makes us appreciate the healthcare we have back in the United States and the things that we take for granted. The Vietnamese are very friendly, and I've learned a lot."
One of the Vietnamese patients, Le Thi Bich Tram, who came with her daughter, said she was happy about receiving the free healthcare services and that she had heard about the clinic from an invitation sent by the Vietnamese government.
Staff Sgt. Aaron Walson, from the 3rd Civil Engineering Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, who was doing construction work at the Truong Than Village Medical Clinic engineering site, said rebuilding the clinics was going well and he wished there was more work they could do in Vietnam.
"The translation has been the hardest part," Sergeant Walson said. "But it's been great. They've taught us some Vietnamese; we've taught them some English, and I'm really enjoying it."
Sergeant Walson also said that he's really been enjoying the time he's been able to spend in Vietnam walking around and seeing all of the different culturally-enriched local areas.
Along with his fellow engineers from both countries, Sergeant Walson and the combined engineering team installed more doors and windows at Tan Thoi and Truong Thanh Thai Lai medical clinics with additional wiring for ceiling fans and light fixtures. The bilateral team is nearing completion of an estimated $59,000 rennovation project at both locations and has finished the installation of masonry, plumbing and weatherproofing at the sites. Between the two clinics, 18 room renovations have been completed.
At the new medical clinic in Truong Thanh Village, 879 patients were seen, with 1,385 patient encounters, or individual visits by the patients to the pediatrics, family practice, optometry, dental or women's health clinics respectively. Of the 1,385 patient encounters, 279 were at pediatrics, 390 at family practice, 347 at optometry, 291 at dental, 58 at the women's health clinic and 2,963 prescriptions were provided to those patients seen.
Vietnamese medical personnel participating in Pacific Angel said they've been pleased to work with the United States in this endeavor, and have high hopes to continue these types of events in the future.
"I hope you can do (Pacific Angel) again next year and every year, but in different locations around the country," Mr. Long said.
Operation Pacific Angel is a Pacific Air Forces program led by 13th Air Force at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
The operation is a joint and combined humanitarian assistance operation conducted in the Pacific area in support of U.S. Pacific Command's capacity-building efforts. It also provides an opportunity for civil and military operators to train together with a focus on civic assistance. The medical and engineering missions are scheduled to run May 15.
36th Wing Public Affairs
5/14/2010 - TRUONG THANH, Vietnam (AFNS) -- After providing three days of free medical care to more than 1,200 patients at Can Tho, Vietnam, the U.S. military medical team relocated their mission May 13 here as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2010.
Medical teams from Vietnam and the U.S. began treating residents in Truong Thanh with free healthcare services in pediatrics, optometry, women's health, dentistry and family medicine. The pre-planned move aimed to further outreach efforts to local residents who may have missed the oppurtunity to attend the other medical event held in the Can Tho commmunity.
"It's a great mission," said Nam Long, a Vietnamese medical technician who was working in the pharmacy at the Troung Thanh medical clinic. "We're helping a lot of people who don't have the money to go out and get medication."
When asked about working with U.S. servicemembers, Mr. Long said it was hard working with the language barrier, and although it was difficult and stressful at times, he was happy to help people out.
Staff Sgt. Angela Supina, from the 3rd Medical Group at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, said she has been enjoying her time in Vietnam and has grown very appreciative of life back in the United States.
"It's an amazing experience," Sergeant Supina said. "It makes us appreciate the healthcare we have back in the United States and the things that we take for granted. The Vietnamese are very friendly, and I've learned a lot."
One of the Vietnamese patients, Le Thi Bich Tram, who came with her daughter, said she was happy about receiving the free healthcare services and that she had heard about the clinic from an invitation sent by the Vietnamese government.
Staff Sgt. Aaron Walson, from the 3rd Civil Engineering Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, who was doing construction work at the Truong Than Village Medical Clinic engineering site, said rebuilding the clinics was going well and he wished there was more work they could do in Vietnam.
"The translation has been the hardest part," Sergeant Walson said. "But it's been great. They've taught us some Vietnamese; we've taught them some English, and I'm really enjoying it."
Sergeant Walson also said that he's really been enjoying the time he's been able to spend in Vietnam walking around and seeing all of the different culturally-enriched local areas.
Along with his fellow engineers from both countries, Sergeant Walson and the combined engineering team installed more doors and windows at Tan Thoi and Truong Thanh Thai Lai medical clinics with additional wiring for ceiling fans and light fixtures. The bilateral team is nearing completion of an estimated $59,000 rennovation project at both locations and has finished the installation of masonry, plumbing and weatherproofing at the sites. Between the two clinics, 18 room renovations have been completed.
At the new medical clinic in Truong Thanh Village, 879 patients were seen, with 1,385 patient encounters, or individual visits by the patients to the pediatrics, family practice, optometry, dental or women's health clinics respectively. Of the 1,385 patient encounters, 279 were at pediatrics, 390 at family practice, 347 at optometry, 291 at dental, 58 at the women's health clinic and 2,963 prescriptions were provided to those patients seen.
Vietnamese medical personnel participating in Pacific Angel said they've been pleased to work with the United States in this endeavor, and have high hopes to continue these types of events in the future.
"I hope you can do (Pacific Angel) again next year and every year, but in different locations around the country," Mr. Long said.
Operation Pacific Angel is a Pacific Air Forces program led by 13th Air Force at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
The operation is a joint and combined humanitarian assistance operation conducted in the Pacific area in support of U.S. Pacific Command's capacity-building efforts. It also provides an opportunity for civil and military operators to train together with a focus on civic assistance. The medical and engineering missions are scheduled to run May 15.
Leaders conclude successful Sensor Rally
by Marcia Klein
Air Force ISR Agency Public Affairs
5/14/2010 - FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (AFNS) -- More than 50 group, wing and center commanders attended the spring Sensor Rally here May 4 and 5.
The bi-annual conference for Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency commanders was hosted by members of the agency's 70th ISR Wing headquartered on this Army post just 30 miles from Washington, D.C. That proximity allowed for visits by senior Defense Department leaders, including the Air Force chief of staff, the National Security Agency director and the Air Force deputy chief of staff for ISR.
"Those robust, candid discussions with these senior leaders who made time in their tight schedules to visit with our group, wing and center, and headquarters senior staff are simply invaluable," said Maj. Gen. Brad Heithold, agency commander.
During the discussions, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz challenged the agency use its in-depth expertise to solve the problem of dealing with the deluge of data coming into ISR systems from the increasing number of sensors and ISR sorties.
"As we look at continued increases in the number of combat air patrols and the corresponding increase in collections, we can't continue to throw people at this problem. The solution needs to be other than human power," said General Schwartz. "That's an area where the agency can do important work for the Air Force: finding systems solutions for the required analysis."
Lt. Gen. David Deptula, the Air Force deputy chief of staff for ISR, reminded the attendees how far the Air Force has come in less than three years since officials began a major overhaul of the way ISR is structured, and how the successes of that transformation are paying off.
"The Air Force has always been and needs to continue being about performance. It is performance that matters, and that builds trust," General Deptula said.
In addition to the discussions with those senior leaders, the conference attendees spent the bulk of their time examining the agency's strategic objectives and how various parts of the enterprise contribute to those objectives. Col. John Bansemer, 70th ISR Wing commander, said the huge expenditure of hours by his staff to arrange the event was well worth it, both for his wing and the enterprise.
"The value to the agency for this conference is twofold," he explained. "First, by holding it this near the Pentagon and D.C. area, we get access to senior leadership who cannot easily visit us at other sites. The time to sit down with them and have direct, personal interaction is invaluable. Second, this was great collaboration time between the agency's commanders and senior leadership, and we get a better understanding of each other's missions and excellent dialogue about the agency's strategic priorities and how to better implement those strategies."
Colonel Bansemer added that it was a tremendous encouragement for his young Airmen who briefed their classified missions and successes to very senior officers.
"They have to serve in silence, because of our missions, so that opportunity to shine is a definite reward," he said
Air Force ISR Agency Public Affairs
5/14/2010 - FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (AFNS) -- More than 50 group, wing and center commanders attended the spring Sensor Rally here May 4 and 5.
The bi-annual conference for Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency commanders was hosted by members of the agency's 70th ISR Wing headquartered on this Army post just 30 miles from Washington, D.C. That proximity allowed for visits by senior Defense Department leaders, including the Air Force chief of staff, the National Security Agency director and the Air Force deputy chief of staff for ISR.
"Those robust, candid discussions with these senior leaders who made time in their tight schedules to visit with our group, wing and center, and headquarters senior staff are simply invaluable," said Maj. Gen. Brad Heithold, agency commander.
During the discussions, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz challenged the agency use its in-depth expertise to solve the problem of dealing with the deluge of data coming into ISR systems from the increasing number of sensors and ISR sorties.
"As we look at continued increases in the number of combat air patrols and the corresponding increase in collections, we can't continue to throw people at this problem. The solution needs to be other than human power," said General Schwartz. "That's an area where the agency can do important work for the Air Force: finding systems solutions for the required analysis."
Lt. Gen. David Deptula, the Air Force deputy chief of staff for ISR, reminded the attendees how far the Air Force has come in less than three years since officials began a major overhaul of the way ISR is structured, and how the successes of that transformation are paying off.
"The Air Force has always been and needs to continue being about performance. It is performance that matters, and that builds trust," General Deptula said.
In addition to the discussions with those senior leaders, the conference attendees spent the bulk of their time examining the agency's strategic objectives and how various parts of the enterprise contribute to those objectives. Col. John Bansemer, 70th ISR Wing commander, said the huge expenditure of hours by his staff to arrange the event was well worth it, both for his wing and the enterprise.
"The value to the agency for this conference is twofold," he explained. "First, by holding it this near the Pentagon and D.C. area, we get access to senior leadership who cannot easily visit us at other sites. The time to sit down with them and have direct, personal interaction is invaluable. Second, this was great collaboration time between the agency's commanders and senior leadership, and we get a better understanding of each other's missions and excellent dialogue about the agency's strategic priorities and how to better implement those strategies."
Colonel Bansemer added that it was a tremendous encouragement for his young Airmen who briefed their classified missions and successes to very senior officers.
"They have to serve in silence, because of our missions, so that opportunity to shine is a definite reward," he said
Generals Stress Need to Share Information
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2010 - As U.S. forces increasingly work as part of multinational coalitions, they are part of a cultural shift toward more information sharing and working more closely with allied troops, military leaders gathered here for a conference on joint warfighting said.
Marine Corps Gen. James N. Mattis, commander of U.S. Joint Forces Command, which co-hosted the 2010 Joint Warfighting Conference, said the responsibility will fall on young officers to build trust across the ranks to improve information sharing.
"In this age, I don't care how technologically or operationally brilliant you are; if you cannot build trust [across various multiple participants], you might as well go home," he said.
Air Force Maj. Gen. David M. Edgington, Joint Forces Command's chief of staff, said a cultural change is in the works to change the information-sharing paradigm from "need-to-know" to "will-to-share."
The United States does not have the only military reluctant to share, Edgington acknowledged, but it bears more of the burden as a leader in coalition operations. "We have the technology and the capability to gather more information and distribute it than other countries," he said.
Sometimes there are legitimate reasons to not share information, particularly when it involves intelligence that could put troops at risk, Edgington said. But often, he added, information isn't shared due only to unnecessary bureaucratic reasons.
Sharing information with coalition forces helps U.S. troops by relieving some of their burden from the fight, Edgington said. To those reluctant to share, he had a simple message: "Get over it, guys. They're going to be fighting with us."
Edgington conceded that sharing information increases the risk of potentially harmful information getting into the wrong hands. "Yes, it's a risk," he said. "But it's all about risk and it's a risk to the other forces, too."
The military leaders also spoke of the need for "interoperability," the ability of coalition forces to work interchangeably with the same equipment and doctrine. The shift will be a big change for senior officers, Edgington said. "Anybody at the rank of colonel or above -- we've all grown up in this where the U.S. is leap years ahead, and we can't afford to do that any more."
Edgington noted, however, that many countries followed the United States in buying F-15 aircraft, and many also joined in the early stages of purchasing the joint strike fighter aircraft, which is still being developed.
French Air Force Gen. Stephane Abrial, NATO supreme allied commander for transformation, spoke of the importance of strengthening the alliance for the future. Building trust that leads to information sharing and improved interoperability of equipment is critical, he said.
The ability for all coalition nations to operate interchangeably "should be hardwired into our DNA," Abrial said. An increasing gap between U.S. military equipment and technology and that of its allies is not being closed quickly enough, he said, and NATO is cooperating with the defense industry to close that gap.
Building trust also should decrease the number of "caveats" or restrictions, some nations insist upon when agreeing to be part of coalition operations, Abrial noted. Such restrictions can restrict troops' involvement in certain operations or prevent information sharing, especially intelligence, he said.
General Officer Assignment
May 14, 2010 - The chief of staff, Air Force announced today the following assignment:
Col. Jon A. Norman, who has been selected for the rank of brigadier general, to vice commander, 12th Air Force, Air Combat Command, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Norman is currently serving as special assistant to the commander, 12th Air Force, Air Combat Command, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.
Col. Jon A. Norman, who has been selected for the rank of brigadier general, to vice commander, 12th Air Force, Air Combat Command, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Norman is currently serving as special assistant to the commander, 12th Air Force, Air Combat Command, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.
Inaugural Warrior Games Set to Wrap Up
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2010 - The inaugural Warrior Games at the Olympic Training Center here will draw to a close this evening, leaving in their wake a few hundred happy, but very tired troops, family members and volunteers.
The week-long series of games drew enthusiastic crowds and reached the level of intensity in the gold medal matchups equal to that of the actual Paralympics, officials said.
"I walked in there and it was dripping with intensity. The game was unbelievable," said Charlie Huebner, chief of Paralympics for the U.S. Olympic Committee. "The crowd, the emotion -- it was just phenomenal. Everything we wanted it to be."
For the past week, about 200 servicemembers from across the Defense Department competed as individuals and in teams in Paralympic Olympic-style events such as shooting, swimming, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, track, wheelchair basketball, discus, and shot put.
They also competed individually for the "Ultimate Champion" competition in a pentathlon format, and the service team's rallied for a rotating Chairman's Cup. Those awards will be presented at the closing ceremony tonight.
The much-anticipated games were announced at the Pentagon only months ago by the Army and its partner, the U.S. Paralympics. The two organizations, along with other partners, quickly through together the financial and logistical support requirements of bringing those troops to the U.S. Olympic Training Center here, along with many of their wounded warrior units' cadre and medical staff. The services quickly recruited their athlete candidates.
Despite the somewhat rushed start, the games proved to be a hit with the athletes, families and volunteers. Already officials are making plans for next year's games, and talking of bringing in international competitors.
"This exceeded my wildest expectations," said Army Brig Gen. Gary H. Cheek, commanding general of the Army's Warrior Transition Command. "I didn't know that we'd have that kind of emotion and the size of the crowds that are here," he added.
Officials hope that this year's event will spawn year-round efforts at the wounded warrior units to train for the annual competition. It is an effort, they said, to encourage wounded servicemembers to use sports in their recovery programs.
"What we're really looking for is that energy to go back to our units where these servicemembers are recovering and spread that fire. ... That's really what this is all about," Cheek said.
Cheek said next year's event will include more sophisticated preparation, including qualifying competitions held at a regional level.
"There's going to be a lot more focus and energy toward this final event," he said. "Doing it 52 weeks of the year instead of one week a year is what we're really after."
Cheek said wounded servicemembers early on sometimes focus too much on their injuries and what they can't do. These games helped them focus on what they can do, he said.
"They found within themselves things that they didn't know were there, and that's what this is all about," he said. "In the end, it's all about focusing on abilities, not disabilities -- what you can do, not what you can't do."
Both Cheek and Huebner said that the energy from being active in sports spills over into the rest of the troops' lives, making them better spouses, parents and employees.
Huebner said not everyone dreams of becoming a Paralympic athlete, but he that being active is a piece of the rehabilitation puzzle, and sports skills can help them better adapt when they return to their homes.
"We have dreams of winning medals at the games," he said. "But it's also the dreams of hitting that homerun in your backyard."
Huebner said he sees the benefits of integrating physical activity into daily life.
"I see people that have higher self-esteem," he said. "I see people that have lower secondary medical conditions, I see people who are pursuing education, pursuing employment, [and people who] are motivated."
DOD Certifies F/A-18 Multi-year Procurement
May 14, 2010 - Today, the undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics certified to Congress that the proposed F/A-18 multiyear procurement met statutory requirements, including substantial savings, for 124 F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircraft. The proposed agreement will run for four years, from fiscal 2010 through 2013.
Now that the Department of Defense has certified the multiyear procurement request, the Department of the Navy will continue to work with Congress to gain necessary legislative authorities required before the Navy may enter into a multiyear contract.
With this multiyear procurement, the Navy Department intends to acquire the remaining program of record for the 515 F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and 114 EA-18G Growlers.
The Navy's fiscal 2011 budget request, sent to Congress Feb. 1, includes $1.9 billion to buy 22 Super Hornets and $1.1 billion for 12 Growlers. In fiscal 2012, the Navy plans to buy 24 more Growlers and one Super Hornet, with 25 more Super Hornets in fiscal 2013.
The Department of the Navy is committed to reducing acquisition costs in delivering capability to the warfighter.
Now that the Department of Defense has certified the multiyear procurement request, the Department of the Navy will continue to work with Congress to gain necessary legislative authorities required before the Navy may enter into a multiyear contract.
With this multiyear procurement, the Navy Department intends to acquire the remaining program of record for the 515 F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and 114 EA-18G Growlers.
The Navy's fiscal 2011 budget request, sent to Congress Feb. 1, includes $1.9 billion to buy 22 Super Hornets and $1.1 billion for 12 Growlers. In fiscal 2012, the Navy plans to buy 24 more Growlers and one Super Hornet, with 25 more Super Hornets in fiscal 2013.
The Department of the Navy is committed to reducing acquisition costs in delivering capability to the warfighter.
Educating the Public Key to Navy Mission at PSRW
By Darren Harrison, Naval District Washington Public Affairs
May 14, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Several Navy commands met with the public to educate them about Navy initiatives May 6-9, alongside representatives of more than 100 government agencies on the National Mall during recognition of Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW). The PSRW event, in its 25th year, was co-sponsored by Public Employees Roundtable (PER), a coalition of 22 organizations, and the Partnership of Public Service (PPS).
Chairman of the PER Kirke Harper said the celebration takes place in cities across the United States, military bases and U.S. schools overseas.
Harper said the private sector is the engine that drives the economy but the government provides the network of services that make it a civilized place.
"Public employees provide a tremendous number of services to the citizens of this country that most people don't think about every day," Harper said.
The Navy was represented at the PSRW National Mall event by the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR), Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), Office of Naval Research (ONR), Seabees and U.S. Navy Environmental Programs. The commands were there to reach out and educate the general public on their role and initiatives.
"It's important to recognize public servants because they are America's unsung heroes, often doing incredible work without the glory and kudos they deserve," said Marketing Manager Sally Smith with PPS.
"It's important to recognize the Navy, and all of our military partners, because they are the ones protecting our nation and defending our freedom."
Among the estimated tens of thousands who toured the exhibits was retired Navy veteran Leslie Komaromi who said he enjoyed looking over the fuel cell vehicles on display at the ONR exhibit.
"I am former Navy and I was looking for a Navy presence when I saw there were military exhibits," Komaromi said. "Talking to the ONR representatives about the vehicles was very interesting and they seem extremely knowledgeable about their subject matter." NHHC featured a display on the command's 12 museums in addition to a selection of books written by their historians.
"One of the things I've found is that a lot of people don't know we exist and we think we have a lot of good resources for people," said Dennis Conrad, a historian with NHHC.
According to Conrad poll numbers show that the Navy has "low name recognition" among the services with the general public.
"[Participating in this event] is an opportunity to get some exposure. Our goal is to make the Navy and public aware of Naval history, a glorious history going back to the founding of our nation."
Conrad said that most of those stopping by their display had expressed an interest in visiting the commands 12 museums and their website. "This is an eye-opener for me because I have lived in the D.C. area for over 20 years and never knew the Navy museum was right here," said Curtis Shaw, a self-confessed history buff who stopped by the NHHC exhibit. "I'll definitely be paying a visit to the museum and checking out their website."
Henry Ford, a human resources specialist with OCHR said the event served a dual purpose both as a public affairs opportunity and a recruitment outreach. "A lot of people don't get inside the bases and they don't know how we serve. They don't know how the 200,000 plus civilian employees contribute to the readiness of the Navy," Ford said.
Chris Adams, director of Energy and Environmental Public Affairs, U.S. Navy Environmental Programs said their exhibit helped educate people on the Navy's environmental outreach efforts and the success stories in oil spill prevention, and working to protect marine mammals during sonar training operations.
Educating the public about their mission and responsibilities was also the mission of Equipment Operator Chief John Trujillo who participated in the event as a member of the Seabees. Trujillo said that a lot of the work the Seabees perform is behind-the-scenes and often out of the public eye.
"We do a lot of construction, but in the States a lot of that is done by local contractors, so a lot of our missions happen primarily overseas in contingency areas," Trujillo said.
Harper summed up the importance of Department of the Navy (DoN) participation in Public Service Recognition Week, noting that DoN is the largest of the armed services.
"The Navy provides worldwide support for the military services and America," Harper said. "So it wouldn't be a celebration of anything that had to do with public service if it didn't include the
May 14, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Several Navy commands met with the public to educate them about Navy initiatives May 6-9, alongside representatives of more than 100 government agencies on the National Mall during recognition of Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW). The PSRW event, in its 25th year, was co-sponsored by Public Employees Roundtable (PER), a coalition of 22 organizations, and the Partnership of Public Service (PPS).
Chairman of the PER Kirke Harper said the celebration takes place in cities across the United States, military bases and U.S. schools overseas.
Harper said the private sector is the engine that drives the economy but the government provides the network of services that make it a civilized place.
"Public employees provide a tremendous number of services to the citizens of this country that most people don't think about every day," Harper said.
The Navy was represented at the PSRW National Mall event by the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR), Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), Office of Naval Research (ONR), Seabees and U.S. Navy Environmental Programs. The commands were there to reach out and educate the general public on their role and initiatives.
"It's important to recognize public servants because they are America's unsung heroes, often doing incredible work without the glory and kudos they deserve," said Marketing Manager Sally Smith with PPS.
"It's important to recognize the Navy, and all of our military partners, because they are the ones protecting our nation and defending our freedom."
Among the estimated tens of thousands who toured the exhibits was retired Navy veteran Leslie Komaromi who said he enjoyed looking over the fuel cell vehicles on display at the ONR exhibit.
"I am former Navy and I was looking for a Navy presence when I saw there were military exhibits," Komaromi said. "Talking to the ONR representatives about the vehicles was very interesting and they seem extremely knowledgeable about their subject matter." NHHC featured a display on the command's 12 museums in addition to a selection of books written by their historians.
"One of the things I've found is that a lot of people don't know we exist and we think we have a lot of good resources for people," said Dennis Conrad, a historian with NHHC.
According to Conrad poll numbers show that the Navy has "low name recognition" among the services with the general public.
"[Participating in this event] is an opportunity to get some exposure. Our goal is to make the Navy and public aware of Naval history, a glorious history going back to the founding of our nation."
Conrad said that most of those stopping by their display had expressed an interest in visiting the commands 12 museums and their website. "This is an eye-opener for me because I have lived in the D.C. area for over 20 years and never knew the Navy museum was right here," said Curtis Shaw, a self-confessed history buff who stopped by the NHHC exhibit. "I'll definitely be paying a visit to the museum and checking out their website."
Henry Ford, a human resources specialist with OCHR said the event served a dual purpose both as a public affairs opportunity and a recruitment outreach. "A lot of people don't get inside the bases and they don't know how we serve. They don't know how the 200,000 plus civilian employees contribute to the readiness of the Navy," Ford said.
Chris Adams, director of Energy and Environmental Public Affairs, U.S. Navy Environmental Programs said their exhibit helped educate people on the Navy's environmental outreach efforts and the success stories in oil spill prevention, and working to protect marine mammals during sonar training operations.
Educating the public about their mission and responsibilities was also the mission of Equipment Operator Chief John Trujillo who participated in the event as a member of the Seabees. Trujillo said that a lot of the work the Seabees perform is behind-the-scenes and often out of the public eye.
"We do a lot of construction, but in the States a lot of that is done by local contractors, so a lot of our missions happen primarily overseas in contingency areas," Trujillo said.
Harper summed up the importance of Department of the Navy (DoN) participation in Public Service Recognition Week, noting that DoN is the largest of the armed services.
"The Navy provides worldwide support for the military services and America," Harper said. "So it wouldn't be a celebration of anything that had to do with public service if it didn't include the
Bethesda Commuters Participate in Bike to Work Day
By Sandy Dean, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs
May 14, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Staff at National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) will join thousands of area commuters May 21 for a celebration of bicycling as a clean, fun and healthy way to get to work.
Bike to Work Day, sponsored by the Washington Area Bike Association (WABA), was established in 1972 to create a healthy, more livable region by promoting bicycling for fun, fitness, education, safety and affordable transportation. Since April 17, 1977, the day of the first Bike to Work Day, millions of commuters have taken to their bikes to participate, said Greg Billing, event assistant.
"There has been an increase from year to year in the number of people commuting to work by bike because of this event," Billing said.
WABA will provide experienced leaders who commuters can join on the day of the event, who have charted courses throughout the metropolitan area and have the local knowledge of the landscape to help commuters navigate to their jobs on the day of the event. These bike courses can be found online at the WABA Web site.
In addition, there will be 35 regional pit stops for commuters who are participating to refuel. The pit stop at NNMC, sponsored by the Morale, Welfare and Recreation, will be at the South Gate outside of the fence.
"We will have a table at the South Gate with prizes, food and drinks. Participants should register at the WABA website," said Jenny Charlson, from NNMC's Morale, Welfare and Recreation office.
"Barriers to biking are often what should I wear, how long will it take and the feeling of being out there all alone," Billing said, "but with Bike to Work Day, all of the leg work has been done to help alleviate those fears."
There is no registration fee for Bike to Work Day and the event is open to all area commuters.
May 14, 2010 - BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- Staff at National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) will join thousands of area commuters May 21 for a celebration of bicycling as a clean, fun and healthy way to get to work.
Bike to Work Day, sponsored by the Washington Area Bike Association (WABA), was established in 1972 to create a healthy, more livable region by promoting bicycling for fun, fitness, education, safety and affordable transportation. Since April 17, 1977, the day of the first Bike to Work Day, millions of commuters have taken to their bikes to participate, said Greg Billing, event assistant.
"There has been an increase from year to year in the number of people commuting to work by bike because of this event," Billing said.
WABA will provide experienced leaders who commuters can join on the day of the event, who have charted courses throughout the metropolitan area and have the local knowledge of the landscape to help commuters navigate to their jobs on the day of the event. These bike courses can be found online at the WABA Web site.
In addition, there will be 35 regional pit stops for commuters who are participating to refuel. The pit stop at NNMC, sponsored by the Morale, Welfare and Recreation, will be at the South Gate outside of the fence.
"We will have a table at the South Gate with prizes, food and drinks. Participants should register at the WABA website," said Jenny Charlson, from NNMC's Morale, Welfare and Recreation office.
"Barriers to biking are often what should I wear, how long will it take and the feeling of being out there all alone," Billing said, "but with Bike to Work Day, all of the leg work has been done to help alleviate those fears."
There is no registration fee for Bike to Work Day and the event is open to all area commuters.
Inspired Guardsman Competes in Warrior Games
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2010 - An amputated left leg couldn't keep Army Sgt. Kisha Makerney out of Iraq, and it certainly isn't stopping her from giving her all at the inaugural Warrior Games here. One of the only National Guardsmen on the Army team here, Makerney said she is inspired by the love she has for her country and living her childhood dream of being a soldier.
"Since I was a little-bitty kid, all I ever wanted to do was be in the military," the Oklahoma National Guard soldier said with a smile. "It's my favorite thing in life, and I'm going to stay in forever."
That passion is what got her through her early days of recovery in 2005, and it's one of the reasons she was chosen to participate in the Warrior Games. Makerney is competing in archery, marksmanship and sitting volleyball this week. She's one of about 200 wounded warriors and disabled veterans who were selected to compete in the Paralympic-type athletic events here at the U.S. Olympic Training Center. Other events are wheelchair basketball, cycling, swimming and track and field.
The games are a joint venture of the Defense Department, the U.S. Olympic Committee and the USO, and are meant to inspire recovery through competition and adaptive sports.
"The Warrior Games are helping others to see that there are no limitations," Makerney said. "You can do whatever you put your mind to, whatever you want, as long as you stay positive, keep a good attitude and really want it."
However, staying positive isn't as simple as it sounds, she acknowledged. The 25-year-old Army engineer recalled the accident that claimed her leg.
"When I wrecked my [motorcycle], I was lying on the ground, in a ditch," she said. "My very first thought was that I was mad about my bike, but then almost immediately, my next thought was: 'They're going to kick me out.'"
It was difficult to come to terms with the possibility of being forced out of the military, she said, but she quickly learned that although recovery is an arduous process, it's only what one makes of it.
"[Initial recovery] is bad, and, for a while, it gets worse," she explained. "But if you work hard, and you believe in yourself, you will rise to the challenge and do anything you put your mind to. I don't believe you should allow yourself to have limits."
Makerney was determined not to let her military career end. At the time of the accident, she had been home from an Iraq deployment for only two months. Army green was still pumping fresh through her veins, and the thought of her unit deploying without her made her depressed, she said.
"There was no way they were going back [to Iraq] without me," she said with a laugh. "[My fellow soldiers] were there for me when I was hurt, and I wanted to be there for them."
Makerney got her wish and deployed with her unit again to Iraq for nine months in 2008. It was more special than she could have ever imagined, she said.
"Deploying again kind of played a big part in my recovery," she explained. "In a way, when I stepped off the plane in [Baghdad International Airport], it healed me. It was one of the best moments of my life, because people told me I'd never do it again." Although the games here haven't had the same sort of impact on her life, Makerney said, she believes they can for others. During her time here and her recovery at the Center for the Intrepid at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, she said, she has met troops who are as passionate about sports and athletics as she is about being a soldier.
"The Warrior Games are great in giving [wounded warriors] something new to go after and succeed in," she said. "It's cool for people who've been hurt and think their lives are over, and then all of the sudden they're competing.
"The bonds we have with our fellow servicemembers and our injuries and now in competition – it brings the life back into us," she continued. "Everybody goes through a hard time when they get hurt, but to be passionate about something and to have each other makes it tons better."
Soldier Overcomes Lifelong Fear with Warrior Games
American Forces Press Service
May 14, 2010 - Army Spc. Marie Princler sought months ago to participate in the inaugural Warrior Games being held here this week to prove she's not limited by her disability. Like many disabled veteran athletes competing in the games, Princler suffers from a service-related injury, and is looking to build on an already-successful recovery program. But as the games neared, she toyed with the idea of confronting another handicap that emerged early in her childhood.
A fear of water has troubled the 23-year-old mechanic for most of her life, and the Warrior Games seemed to be the perfect stage to conquer her fears, she said.
"I really wanted to run at the Warrior Games to help overcome my injuries," Princler said of the torn quadriceps and damaged knee that hinder her left leg. She was hurt in a training accident while stationed in Germany in December 2007. "Since participation in the games required that I compete in multiple events, I thought it would be a good time to try to overcome my fear of water."
Princler's fear developed after a car accident when she was 7 years old. The roads were flooded that day in Frederick, Md. Her grandfather lost control of his car, veered off a bridge and plunged into the Monocacy River, she recalled.
Princler was knocked unconscious by the fall, but aside from that, the family was unharmed, she said. In the hospital after the accident, however, her grandmother told her they had been trapped in the car for some time until rescue workers arrived.
She has been terrified of water ever since.
"I never learned to swim because of the car wreck," Princler said. "I've always had a certain fear of water in my face, and get anxiety pretty bad when I take a shower and get into a pool."
But for the past month, Princler has been taking baby steps toward beating her fear. Her fellow soldiers at the Fort Carson, Colo., warrior transition unit have taken a special interest in helping her, she said.
"When I got to the [unit], I really got a sense that they care about our issues and want to help us get better," she said. Army Sgt. Gavin Sibayan, a close friend and fellow swimmer on the Army team here, taught Princler how to float and swim, as well as techniques to control her breathing in competition, she said.
"Sergeant Sibayan has been a big help for me," Princler said. "He's taught me a lot, and I'm just going to keep putting his coaching into practice and getting better."
She just has to remember not to let her anxiety get the best of her, she said.
"The whole time I'm swimming, I'm thinking to myself, 'I can do it,' trying to block out what I remember about the car wreck," she explained. "It's still hard, and I get nervous going out there, so I have to psych myself out and tell myself I'm not going to drown."
Princler praised the Warrior Games for giving her an outlet and the motivation to take on her fears. Training for the games was the extra push she needed to finally go toe-to-toe with fear after 16 years, she said.
"The idea of the Warrior Games is pretty neat," she said. "Whether it's continuing rehabbing with my leg or overcoming my fear of water -- whatever the injuries are -- the games show that you can overcome anything and still be successful in your life."
Princler competed in the 50-meter freestyle and 50-meter backstroke May 12. It was her first competitive swim, and one of the few times she has gone the entire length of the pool. She's proud of her accomplishments, but there's still work left to do to completely defeat her fear, she said.
"The fear is still kind of overwhelming, but I think I'm getting close to getting over it now," she said. "I'm just going to keep practicing and trying to achieve my goals."
NMCSD Staff Celebrate 102nd Nurse Corps Birthday
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jake Berenguer, Naval Medical Center San Diego Public Affairs
May 14, 2010 - SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) celebrated 102 years of Navy Nurse Corps history May 13.
NMCSD commemorated the Navy Nurse Corps birthday with a cake cutting ceremony, and remarks by Commander, NMCSD, Rear Adm. Christine M. Bruzek-Kohler.
"Since assuming the duties as Commander, Navy Medicine West and Naval Medical Center San Diego, I have had the privilege to see many Navy nurses provide incredible nursing care and advocacy for their patients, while working to implement innovative approaches to make Navy Medicine the best it can be at home and forward deployed. I am so very proud of all of my fellow Navy nurses," said Bruzek-Kohler.
The Navy Nurse Corps was established May 13, 1908 when President Theodore Roosevelt signed the Naval Appropriations Bill authorizing the establishment of the Nurse Corps as a unique Navy staff corps.
According to NMCSD's Director for Nursing Services, Capt. Kriste J. Grau, Navy and civilian nurses are essential to Navy Medicine's Force Health Protection mission - integrating compassion with discipline, individuality with conformity, and wellness promotion with wartime readiness.
"Today's Navy nurses are improving patient outcomes through knowledge and expertise. They are questioning traditional methods of care and assuring practice is evidence-based. They integrate research finding into professional practice. They have autonomy and unlimited growth opportunities. They are compassionate, caring nurses who make a difference every day by being present during life's most joyous and most difficult times," said Grau.
NMCSD nurses collaborate alongside doctors, corpsmen and other essential clinical staff to ensure that safe high quality care is consistently delivered to patients and their families.
"I am extremely proud to be a Navy nurse. I have been on active duty for 27 years. My first six years were enlisted, and I knew what I wanted to be - I wanted to become a Nurse Corps officer," said Cmdr. Brian L. McCann, senior nurse officer in the NMCSD Emergency Room. "I love being the Emergency Room division officer because it's so challenging, and I get to work with junior officers and mentor them to help their careers flourish. I am fortunate to work with individuals that are talented and willing to deploy to help heal those that have come into harm's way. I am so proud to be a part of that," said McCann.
Navy nurses are not just found at the bedside anymore. The Navy Nurse Corps has come to the aid of those in need by applying their skills both in and out of harm's way. Whether on the battlefield, on a ship, in a ward, or in military treatment facilities found on bases worldwide, the Navy Nurse Corps has supported our military members and their beneficiaries.
"I deployed to Haiti this past January. Assisting in the humanitarian missions has been my dream and passion and really the reason why I chose to go into the Navy Nurse Corps," said Lt. j.g. Natalie K. Shaffer, a registered nurse in NMCSD's Pediatric Inpatient Ward. "The day after the earthquake I was thinking about how amazing it would be to have the opportunity to go, and two days later I got a call from my chain of command saying that my name came up for the mission. I got the call on Friday and left on Monday. We were assigned to the USS Bataan that Wednesday and had a mass casualty arrival of 30 patients within hours of landing on the ship," said Shaffer.
The ceremony recognizes and pays tribute to the many Navy nurses who have proudly served this country over the past 102 years. Their expertise and leadership has ensured that the nation's military health is maintained.
McCann said the type of dedication that Navy nurses show is really the "spirit of Navy Nursing" that empowers them to shape the future of Navy Medicine. The NMCSD celebration of the 102nd Navy Nurse Corps birthday recognized the innovative medical advances that have been made, and was also a time for reflection on those that have blazed the trail for today's Navy nurses.
May 14, 2010 - SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) celebrated 102 years of Navy Nurse Corps history May 13.
NMCSD commemorated the Navy Nurse Corps birthday with a cake cutting ceremony, and remarks by Commander, NMCSD, Rear Adm. Christine M. Bruzek-Kohler.
"Since assuming the duties as Commander, Navy Medicine West and Naval Medical Center San Diego, I have had the privilege to see many Navy nurses provide incredible nursing care and advocacy for their patients, while working to implement innovative approaches to make Navy Medicine the best it can be at home and forward deployed. I am so very proud of all of my fellow Navy nurses," said Bruzek-Kohler.
The Navy Nurse Corps was established May 13, 1908 when President Theodore Roosevelt signed the Naval Appropriations Bill authorizing the establishment of the Nurse Corps as a unique Navy staff corps.
According to NMCSD's Director for Nursing Services, Capt. Kriste J. Grau, Navy and civilian nurses are essential to Navy Medicine's Force Health Protection mission - integrating compassion with discipline, individuality with conformity, and wellness promotion with wartime readiness.
"Today's Navy nurses are improving patient outcomes through knowledge and expertise. They are questioning traditional methods of care and assuring practice is evidence-based. They integrate research finding into professional practice. They have autonomy and unlimited growth opportunities. They are compassionate, caring nurses who make a difference every day by being present during life's most joyous and most difficult times," said Grau.
NMCSD nurses collaborate alongside doctors, corpsmen and other essential clinical staff to ensure that safe high quality care is consistently delivered to patients and their families.
"I am extremely proud to be a Navy nurse. I have been on active duty for 27 years. My first six years were enlisted, and I knew what I wanted to be - I wanted to become a Nurse Corps officer," said Cmdr. Brian L. McCann, senior nurse officer in the NMCSD Emergency Room. "I love being the Emergency Room division officer because it's so challenging, and I get to work with junior officers and mentor them to help their careers flourish. I am fortunate to work with individuals that are talented and willing to deploy to help heal those that have come into harm's way. I am so proud to be a part of that," said McCann.
Navy nurses are not just found at the bedside anymore. The Navy Nurse Corps has come to the aid of those in need by applying their skills both in and out of harm's way. Whether on the battlefield, on a ship, in a ward, or in military treatment facilities found on bases worldwide, the Navy Nurse Corps has supported our military members and their beneficiaries.
"I deployed to Haiti this past January. Assisting in the humanitarian missions has been my dream and passion and really the reason why I chose to go into the Navy Nurse Corps," said Lt. j.g. Natalie K. Shaffer, a registered nurse in NMCSD's Pediatric Inpatient Ward. "The day after the earthquake I was thinking about how amazing it would be to have the opportunity to go, and two days later I got a call from my chain of command saying that my name came up for the mission. I got the call on Friday and left on Monday. We were assigned to the USS Bataan that Wednesday and had a mass casualty arrival of 30 patients within hours of landing on the ship," said Shaffer.
The ceremony recognizes and pays tribute to the many Navy nurses who have proudly served this country over the past 102 years. Their expertise and leadership has ensured that the nation's military health is maintained.
McCann said the type of dedication that Navy nurses show is really the "spirit of Navy Nursing" that empowers them to shape the future of Navy Medicine. The NMCSD celebration of the 102nd Navy Nurse Corps birthday recognized the innovative medical advances that have been made, and was also a time for reflection on those that have blazed the trail for today's Navy nurses.
Enterprise Conducts Night Flight Operations
May 14, 2010 - USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted its first nighttime flight operations in more than two years May 13-14 with elements of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 as the "Big E" completed another milestone toward flight deck certification. Enterprise has launched more than 60 sorties from the ship's flight deck just 20 days after completing a two-year extended maintenance availability.
Flight deck certification has been conducted aboard Enterprise since May 12 by Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, VFA 11, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251, and the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 23.
"We're going to have our varsity team up there tonight," said Enterprise Commanding Officer Capt. O.P. Honors in a message to the crew over the ship's loudspeaker prior to beginning the nighttime event.
Honors cautioned nonessential crew to stay away from the catwalks surrounding the flight deck due to the inherent danger involved in this particular event, but also flight deck operations in general.
Without the aid of moonlight, the squadrons faced additional challenges during these highly complex nighttime maneuvers.
"We call it flying into a black hole," said Lt. Jason M. Simon, a landing signal officer from VFA-211. "The sky is black, the water is black, and the ship is black, and all the pilots have to land on is their instruments. Despite the challenges, the evolution went smoothly thanks to the expertise of the flight deck personnel, the pilots, and the Enterprise crew."
Aircraft carriers launch night sorties routinely, but since this was the first night of flight operations the crew had conducted in so long, everyone aboard felt the added pressure to get it right.
The event was one of the final hurdles the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier faced as it moved closer to flight deck certification and continued to build on its storied history.
Enterprise is underway conducting flight deck certification in preparation for her work-up phase and 21st deployment.
Eighth Air Force’s Great WWII Gamble
By Brig Gen Richard M. Baughn, USAF (Ret)
Author’s Note: As in past, rather than going back and forth from US Army Air Corps to US Army Air Forces according to the period under discussion, I’ll use only the latter or its acronym (USAAF).
By the time the US entered the war, the Germans and Japanese had captured much of Europe and Asia and were poised to overrun more countries—with only the beleaguered British left to stop them. Since the US had been so poorly prepared, it would take almost a year before they had sufficient forces and shipping to start to help. As a result, the American and British leaders had to decide where to concentrate their limited forces. Because the Nazis were threatening the very existence of Britain, it was decided to defeat Germany first, while applying holding action against Japan. The overly ambitious Americans insisted on a plan to invade France in the spring of 1943 and the British reluctantly agreed. The initial objective in support of the invasion would be a joint USAAF/RAF air campaign to reduce Germany’s industrial might and destroy the Luftwaffe. As history has shown, it would be 1944 before our military forces were strong enough to invade France.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Baughn0510.htm
Author’s Note: As in past, rather than going back and forth from US Army Air Corps to US Army Air Forces according to the period under discussion, I’ll use only the latter or its acronym (USAAF).
By the time the US entered the war, the Germans and Japanese had captured much of Europe and Asia and were poised to overrun more countries—with only the beleaguered British left to stop them. Since the US had been so poorly prepared, it would take almost a year before they had sufficient forces and shipping to start to help. As a result, the American and British leaders had to decide where to concentrate their limited forces. Because the Nazis were threatening the very existence of Britain, it was decided to defeat Germany first, while applying holding action against Japan. The overly ambitious Americans insisted on a plan to invade France in the spring of 1943 and the British reluctantly agreed. The initial objective in support of the invasion would be a joint USAAF/RAF air campaign to reduce Germany’s industrial might and destroy the Luftwaffe. As history has shown, it would be 1944 before our military forces were strong enough to invade France.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Baughn0510.htm
“The Hurt Locker”—A Deconstruction
By Jim Elston
“War is a drug,” says part of the epigraph at the beginning the 2010 Oscar-winning Best Picture, The Hurt Locker. This phrase lingers on the screen when the rest disappears, as if director Kathryn Bigelow and screenwriter Mark Boal are making sure viewers get the point. I didn’t.
Sure, there’s all kinds of adrenaline rushes associated with combat. As a civilian who’s never been on the battlefield, I can only guess what these are like, so perhaps I’m wrong when I liken them to the so-called runner’s high—once the run’s over, and the adrenaline is still surging through you for a few seconds, you feel like Leonardo DiCaprio on the prow of the Titanic. When Locker central character Sergeant James comes out of the burnt-out car and says, ”That was good,” he’s riding that high, not celebrating the fact that the danger is past and he’s alive. In fact, Sgt James can’t wait until the next IED (improvised explosive device) or whatever needs to be disarmed so he can feel that high again. If this is what the film means by a drug, it’s easy to understand. But I don’t think that’s what it means, because the film wants us to think this drug called war is a bad drug – not medicinal, but addictive.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/HurtLocker0510.htm
“War is a drug,” says part of the epigraph at the beginning the 2010 Oscar-winning Best Picture, The Hurt Locker. This phrase lingers on the screen when the rest disappears, as if director Kathryn Bigelow and screenwriter Mark Boal are making sure viewers get the point. I didn’t.
Sure, there’s all kinds of adrenaline rushes associated with combat. As a civilian who’s never been on the battlefield, I can only guess what these are like, so perhaps I’m wrong when I liken them to the so-called runner’s high—once the run’s over, and the adrenaline is still surging through you for a few seconds, you feel like Leonardo DiCaprio on the prow of the Titanic. When Locker central character Sergeant James comes out of the burnt-out car and says, ”That was good,” he’s riding that high, not celebrating the fact that the danger is past and he’s alive. In fact, Sgt James can’t wait until the next IED (improvised explosive device) or whatever needs to be disarmed so he can feel that high again. If this is what the film means by a drug, it’s easy to understand. But I don’t think that’s what it means, because the film wants us to think this drug called war is a bad drug – not medicinal, but addictive.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/HurtLocker0510.htm
Ecology, Security, and Armed Conflicts in Africa
History shows many instances in which scarce resources and environmental degradation played a role in generating conflict, leading even to the collapse of societies and civilizations—some as early as the beginning of written history. 1 Examples include peoples in Mesopotamia and parts of the Middle East, the Maya of Central America, the Khmer of Southeast Asia, and the Anasazi of the US Southwest, among many others. As Mary Ellen O’Connell observes, “In the 1970s, Japanese leaders first argued that national security means more than being safe from traditional military threats. They made this argument at a time [when American] leaders were pressing the Japanese to spend more on security. Japanese leaders argued that sums spent on protecting the environment or food and energy sources should also count toward national security spending.” 2 This nexus of environment, security, and armed conflicts typifies many African countries.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/MauduitEditorial0510.pdf
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/MauduitEditorial0510.pdf
Is what we offer in professional military education always the best there is?
by R.A. Norton, Ph.D.
I recently wrote a book review of Ralph Peters’ new work, Endless War1 for The Wright Stuff. From a professional educator’s point of view, I believe it is an important volume because it questions some of the most deeply ingrained assumptions of Western thought.
Peters is a historian and an inveterate traveler. He is a storyteller and opines the world (including the West) remains largely ruled by tribes – an inescapable feature of mankind’s relatively short history. He notes that in spite of Western beliefs, what emerges in conflict, violent or not, is the preservation of tribe, family and religion. Everything else is secondary if not inconsequential. Understanding these three irrevocable loyalties – tribe, family and religion – provides the foundation to understand more accurately the real framework of the world.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Norton0510.pdf
I recently wrote a book review of Ralph Peters’ new work, Endless War1 for The Wright Stuff. From a professional educator’s point of view, I believe it is an important volume because it questions some of the most deeply ingrained assumptions of Western thought.
Peters is a historian and an inveterate traveler. He is a storyteller and opines the world (including the West) remains largely ruled by tribes – an inescapable feature of mankind’s relatively short history. He notes that in spite of Western beliefs, what emerges in conflict, violent or not, is the preservation of tribe, family and religion. Everything else is secondary if not inconsequential. Understanding these three irrevocable loyalties – tribe, family and religion – provides the foundation to understand more accurately the real framework of the world.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Norton0510.pdf
The Tactical versus Strategic Distinction: It’s A Big Deal, Right?
By Mark Stout
While the wise old owl discovered it took three licks to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Roll Pop, students of national security might wonder about the arithmetic of nuclear deterrence. For example, how many tactical nuclear weapons does it takes to equal a strategic nuclear weapon?
An apples-to-apples comparison is fine if you’re discussing apples, but nuclear weapons are but one part of the grand and cumulative smorgasbord of global security. So first, let’s attempt to define exactly what a ‘strategic’ nuclear weapon is, which itself has been the subject of considerable debate. Yield, target, effect, and more have all been considered in the definition, but from a practical point of view, a strategic nuclear weapon is…well, it’s one that’s delivered strategically. That means delivered via ICBMs, SLBMs, or heavy bombers.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Stout0510.htm
While the wise old owl discovered it took three licks to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Roll Pop, students of national security might wonder about the arithmetic of nuclear deterrence. For example, how many tactical nuclear weapons does it takes to equal a strategic nuclear weapon?
An apples-to-apples comparison is fine if you’re discussing apples, but nuclear weapons are but one part of the grand and cumulative smorgasbord of global security. So first, let’s attempt to define exactly what a ‘strategic’ nuclear weapon is, which itself has been the subject of considerable debate. Yield, target, effect, and more have all been considered in the definition, but from a practical point of view, a strategic nuclear weapon is…well, it’s one that’s delivered strategically. That means delivered via ICBMs, SLBMs, or heavy bombers.
Read On
http://www.au.af.mil/au/aunews/archive/2010/0510/0510Articles/Stout0510.htm
Cyclists Refuse to Leave Teammate Behind
Army News Service
May 14, 2010 - The Warrior Games cycling competition, held at the U.S. Air Force Academy here in a May snow shower yesterday, would have daunted the toughest of professional cyclists, but not wounded, ill and injured servicemembers. They battled their way through freezing temperatures and slippery roads, persevering in the midst of extreme pain, and even stopped to help each other along the way.
Suffering from two torn rotator cuffs, Army Sgt. Monica Southall had never used a handcycle before arriving at the Warrior Games a few days ago, but she didn't let that keep her from the race. At one point, the pain became too much to bear and she wanted to stop, but as she said, "Soldiers don't quit, and I wasn't going to quit."
Help, in the form of Army Warrant Officer 1 Johnathan Holsey and Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Will Wilson, arrived just when Southall needed it most. Both men are leg amputees, and Wilson was talking Holsey through their upright cycling race when they passed Southall about two miles from the finish line and noticed her struggling. Any thoughts of winning in their own competition instantly disappeared.
"When we came by her, she was having a hard time going around, and the Navy master chief [and I], we were coming through," Holsey said after the race. "He kind of helped me on. He was saying, 'Stay with me. Stay with me.' And when we saw Monica, we were like, 'You know what? We're going to take her in.'"
Holsey added, "We said we weren't going to leave her and we stayed with her the whole time, because we're all here together. You never leave your comrade behind. Never. When we saw her coming up by herself, we said we were going to stay with her and we pushed her along. She had the wheel.
"We just had to be there with her, he continued. "We just came through together. It's never about the race; it's about the camaraderie and being there for each other."
Although the three were competing in individual events and are in different services, they were really one team, Holsey said, bound not only by their military service, but also by their experiences as wounded and injured servicemembers. They share something no one else could understand.
Southall inspired and helped Holsey as well. Seeing her perseverance pushed all thoughts of pain, cold and falling off his bike to the side, he said. That's the best thing about the Warrior Games, he added: the inspiration, strength and power wounded warriors can get from being around each other.
"This is the reason we came here, and this is the reason I'll do it every year," he said. "Any time they invite me back, I'll be more than happy to come."
In the end, Holsey and Wilson tied for last place in their category, and Southall finished last in hers, but that didn't matter. They crossed the finish line together, as a team, to a crowd that cheered just as loudly for them as for the gold-medal winners.
"It was great [to finish], seeing everybody standing there waiting for me and cheering me on," Southall said with tears rolling down her face. "You just can't describe a moment like that. It was very inspiring."
Texas Guardsman Shoots for Gold at Warrior Games
Texas National Guard
May 14, 2010 - A Texas National Guard soldier receiving treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder won a gold medal during the inaugural Warrior Games here yesterday. Army Spc. Shawn Porter competed in the 10-meter air rifle standing/non-supported and the 30-meter recurve-bow open events. He did not place in the 30-meter recurve-bow, but shot well enough to win the air rifle event. The 136th Military Police Battalion soldier was deployed to Afghanistan in 2009, but had to be evacuated to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany after he was diagnosed with a tumor.
While recovering from surgery in November, Porter was diagnosed with PTSD and was transported to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio for treatment.
Porter is an athlete and he said he thought staying active would help him recover sooner. When his athletic prowess was discovered, coaches started working with him more seriously and intensely.
What started as therapy, he said, has now become a victory for himself, the Texas National Guard, and the Army.
Porter dedicated the medal to the soldiers of the 136th in Tyler, Texas, who recently returned from Afghanistan.
Porter is one of two Army National Guard Soldiers competing in the games.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
USS McCampbell and USS John S. McCain Arrive in Hong Kong
By Lt. j.g. Colleen R. Praxmarer, USS McCampbell Public Affairs
May 13, 2010 - HONG KONG (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyers USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) arrived in Hong Kong May 13 for a port visit during their ships spring deployment.
"We are happy to be here in Hong Kong, which is one of the premier port destinations in the Pacific Region," said Cmdr. Jeffrey Kim, commanding officer of USS John S. McCain. "I know that our Sailors have been looking forward to their opportunity to visit Hong Kong."
Many Sailors are hoping to take advantage of Hong Kong's cultural diversity, shopping, and sightseeing.
"Hong Kong is a perennial favorite port visit for our Sailors," added Cmdr. Charles Johnson, USS McCampbell's commanding officer. "It offers a variety of cultural experiences and time for our crew to relax and recharge. Additionally, we're very grateful for the opportunities to give back to the Hong Kong community through community service when they have so graciously welcomed us."
Throughout the port visit, many Sailors will explore Hong Kong through Navy sponsored Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) tours, a popular options amongst Sailors are kayaking and mountain biking. "I'm really excited since it's my first time kayaking, my first time in Hong Kong, and my first port visit," said Operations Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rodney Davis of Rex, Ga. "Everything is still really new, and I'm looking forward to seeing the difference between the Japanese and Chinese cultures."
Many Sailors will also volunteer for community relations projects at The Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children (HKSPC) in Kowloon. Volunteers will play with children, paint the orphanage and assist with minor repair work. "I would rather go to an orphanage and help out," said Gas Turbines Systems Technician (Electrical) 2nd Class Marona Genato of San Diego. "They have no parents, and I want to show them that someone still cares for them and to make them feel loved."
There is also an opportunity for Sailors to become involved in the Hong Kong community is through the Meals in the Home Program. Sailors are matched with Americans or other expatriates living in Hong Kong and treated to some local hospitality such as a home cooked meal or a tour of the city. The program began in the 1970s by the Hong Kong's American Women's Association.
McCampbell and John S. McCain are assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and patrol the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility conducting routine operations. Operating in the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets covering 48 million square miles, with approximately 60-70 ships, 200-300 aircraft, and 40,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any time.
May 13, 2010 - HONG KONG (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyers USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) arrived in Hong Kong May 13 for a port visit during their ships spring deployment.
"We are happy to be here in Hong Kong, which is one of the premier port destinations in the Pacific Region," said Cmdr. Jeffrey Kim, commanding officer of USS John S. McCain. "I know that our Sailors have been looking forward to their opportunity to visit Hong Kong."
Many Sailors are hoping to take advantage of Hong Kong's cultural diversity, shopping, and sightseeing.
"Hong Kong is a perennial favorite port visit for our Sailors," added Cmdr. Charles Johnson, USS McCampbell's commanding officer. "It offers a variety of cultural experiences and time for our crew to relax and recharge. Additionally, we're very grateful for the opportunities to give back to the Hong Kong community through community service when they have so graciously welcomed us."
Throughout the port visit, many Sailors will explore Hong Kong through Navy sponsored Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) tours, a popular options amongst Sailors are kayaking and mountain biking. "I'm really excited since it's my first time kayaking, my first time in Hong Kong, and my first port visit," said Operations Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rodney Davis of Rex, Ga. "Everything is still really new, and I'm looking forward to seeing the difference between the Japanese and Chinese cultures."
Many Sailors will also volunteer for community relations projects at The Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children (HKSPC) in Kowloon. Volunteers will play with children, paint the orphanage and assist with minor repair work. "I would rather go to an orphanage and help out," said Gas Turbines Systems Technician (Electrical) 2nd Class Marona Genato of San Diego. "They have no parents, and I want to show them that someone still cares for them and to make them feel loved."
There is also an opportunity for Sailors to become involved in the Hong Kong community is through the Meals in the Home Program. Sailors are matched with Americans or other expatriates living in Hong Kong and treated to some local hospitality such as a home cooked meal or a tour of the city. The program began in the 1970s by the Hong Kong's American Women's Association.
McCampbell and John S. McCain are assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and patrol the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility conducting routine operations. Operating in the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets covering 48 million square miles, with approximately 60-70 ships, 200-300 aircraft, and 40,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any time.
Enterprise Launches and Recovers First Aircraft in Two Years
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristin M. Baker, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
May 13, 2010 - USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) successfully recovered and launched fixed-wing aircraft May 12 after more than two years.
The "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, landed four F/A-18F Super Hornets aboard the world's first nuclear-powered carrier, and the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 followed shortly later with the first launch.
Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, also known as the "Red Rippers," also launched and recovered aircraft on a day long anticipated by the crew.
In order to safely recover a jet there must be 16 personnel below the flight deck manning the arresting gear equipment, eight personnel on the flight deck, and one primary operator. These personnel are solely responsible for the safe recovery of any inbound aircraft.
From providing fuel to taxiing the aircraft after recovery, it's a team project.
"No single qualification can recover an aircraft alone," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class (AW) David T. Ifill, the primary flight control operator for Air department's V-2 catapult division. "Teamwork is the only way a carrier can safely do this."
Enterprise spent more than two years in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard making sure the ship was ready for her 21st deployment.
During that time frame, Enterprise has seen many Sailors leave the command and many more arrive. There are some who have been on other carriers, seen and participated in flight operations, but many more arrived aboard Enterprise as their first command, new to the fleet.
"I've been in the Navy for more than a year," said Airman Ryan K. White. "I am honored to spend my first enlistment aboard Enterprise. It's an awe-inspiring experience just to be here."
Launching aircraft on an aircraft carrier is just as dangerous as the recovery.
An aircraft launched from an aircraft carrier accelerates from zero to 145 mph in less than three seconds.
"Safety is the priority on the flight deck at all times," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class (AW) Michael K. Balentine, the bow catapult leading petty officer for Air department's V-2 division. "Keeping your head on a swivel is our motto out there."
Launching one jet off the flight deck requires a minimum of 11 personnel on the flight deck.
"People are the heart of launching jets," said Balentine. "Participating in this specific launch has been an honor for me. I served aboard Enterprise from 2003-2006, and to be a part of this particular event is a dream come true after spending my last three years on shore."
At the completion of flight deck certification, Carrier Air Wing 1 will begin carrier qualification which will allow them to conduct flight operations with Enterprise and her crew until the end of the next deployment.
Enterprise is underway conducting flight deck certification in preparation for her work-up phase and 21st deployment.
May 13, 2010 - USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) successfully recovered and launched fixed-wing aircraft May 12 after more than two years.
The "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, landed four F/A-18F Super Hornets aboard the world's first nuclear-powered carrier, and the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 followed shortly later with the first launch.
Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, also known as the "Red Rippers," also launched and recovered aircraft on a day long anticipated by the crew.
In order to safely recover a jet there must be 16 personnel below the flight deck manning the arresting gear equipment, eight personnel on the flight deck, and one primary operator. These personnel are solely responsible for the safe recovery of any inbound aircraft.
From providing fuel to taxiing the aircraft after recovery, it's a team project.
"No single qualification can recover an aircraft alone," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class (AW) David T. Ifill, the primary flight control operator for Air department's V-2 catapult division. "Teamwork is the only way a carrier can safely do this."
Enterprise spent more than two years in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard making sure the ship was ready for her 21st deployment.
During that time frame, Enterprise has seen many Sailors leave the command and many more arrive. There are some who have been on other carriers, seen and participated in flight operations, but many more arrived aboard Enterprise as their first command, new to the fleet.
"I've been in the Navy for more than a year," said Airman Ryan K. White. "I am honored to spend my first enlistment aboard Enterprise. It's an awe-inspiring experience just to be here."
Launching aircraft on an aircraft carrier is just as dangerous as the recovery.
An aircraft launched from an aircraft carrier accelerates from zero to 145 mph in less than three seconds.
"Safety is the priority on the flight deck at all times," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class (AW) Michael K. Balentine, the bow catapult leading petty officer for Air department's V-2 division. "Keeping your head on a swivel is our motto out there."
Launching one jet off the flight deck requires a minimum of 11 personnel on the flight deck.
"People are the heart of launching jets," said Balentine. "Participating in this specific launch has been an honor for me. I served aboard Enterprise from 2003-2006, and to be a part of this particular event is a dream come true after spending my last three years on shore."
At the completion of flight deck certification, Carrier Air Wing 1 will begin carrier qualification which will allow them to conduct flight operations with Enterprise and her crew until the end of the next deployment.
Enterprise is underway conducting flight deck certification in preparation for her work-up phase and 21st deployment.
Adaptive Sports, Warrior Games Bring Families Together
American Forces Press Service
May 13, 2010 - Sharada Akin had her hands full courtside here yesterday as she entertained her 16-month-old daughter, Trinity. Her cheerful, blue-eyed little darling scampered back and forth around the bleachers, laughing and playing with a seemingly endless amount of energy. So keeping up with her husband's archery match wasn't much of an option, Akin said, but she added that the tournament's outcome wasn't all that important. The fact that Army Cpl. Travis Akin can enjoy life again is all she really needs to know.
"The most important thing for our family is that we're happy, healthy and together," Akin said. "And Travis feeling useful again and worth something after being injured in Iraq is a big part of that."
Travis suffers from severe spinal injuries and post-traumatic stress caused by a 2006 roadside-bomb attack in Iraq. He's one of about 200 wounded warriors and disabled veterans competing in Paralympic athletic events at the inaugural Warrior Games at the U.S. Olympic Training Center here.
Travis's injuries took him out of the fight and prevented him from doing a lot of things he'd enjoyed, such as playing the way he used to with his kids, his wife explained. The initial recovery phase was daunting for the entire family, she added.
"It's frustrating when there's nothing you can do, and you know he's in pain and wants to do more, but just can't," Akin said. "We have four kids, and our sons like to play rough, but can't with their dad any more. They want to know why Daddy can't roughhouse, and all you can tell them is because Daddy's hurt."
But, like many troops and their families who have suffered life-changing disabilities, Travis, who's stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, has discovered adaptive sports as a way to persevere. He learned several activities that he never thought he would do, but mostly he was drawn to hunting, which is how he was introduced to a compound bow.
Hunting gives her husband an outlet to focus his energy, as well as a means to relax when stress builds up, Akin said. Travis has come a long way since he was first injured, she added.
"I'm certainly proud of him," she said. "He's come a long way with archery, with himself. He's just accomplished so much in his lifetime. I just want to support him any way we can. That's why I'm here."
Wayne Luttmer and his wife, Cathy, made the trip here from north Texas to show support for their son, Army Sgt. Jeremiah Luttmer, who's competing in archery and marksmanship. Luttmer described his son as a "man with a lot of fight, willpower and pride."
Jeremiah was deployed to Iraq in 2008 when a mortar round shattered his right ankle, Luttmer said of his son's injury.
"It was tough on his mother and I," the father said. "It's not easy to see your son hurt that badly in such a violent way."
Yet, like the Akin family, the Luttmers drew strength from their wounded warrior's ability to overcome his disability and continue on with his life.
"Shooting and things like the Warrior Games have gone a long way to his recovery," Luttmer said. "It's done great things for us, and it's a great way for [wounded warriors] to get motivated again."
Luttmer added that he's also proud of all the wounded warriors competing this week. The games have the potential to make an impact on a lot of families and wounded warriors' lives, he said.
"I love seeing all of the services here together competing against each other," he said. "I'm enjoying the heck out of seeing these troops, who've been through so much, doing so well here. It makes me very proud to be a father of a soldier."
The Warrior Games are a joint venture of the Defense Department, the U.S. Olympic Committee and the USO to promote the positive impact adaptive sports can have on veterans dealing with disabilities.
Marines Earn Gold, Silver in Warrior Games Archery
Defense Media Activity – Marine Corps
May 13, 2010 - When retired Marine Corps 1st Sgt. John Fuller was asked how he thought the inaugural Warrior Games archery competition would turn out, his answer was complicated, yet simple. And it was right. Marines earned both gold and silver medals in the compound-bow competition at the U.S. Olympic Training Center here yesterday – just as Fuller, the Marine team's archery coach, predicted.
Cpl. Beau Parra of Wounded Warrior Detachment Hawaii narrowly missed a perfect mark, scoring 119 out of 120 possible points, closely followed by his fellow Marine, Staff Sgt. Matthew Benack, who shot 118. Army Sgt. Robert Price claimed the bronze medal.
Fuller said his prediction was based on observing his team members' individual strengths, as well as their nerves. The two Marines who captured top honors exemplified those strengths, he said.
"We were all sitting around and talking about shooting, and one of the guys asked me, 'How do you think it will come out?'" Fuller said. "Well, I answered truthfully and honestly. I said, 'I think we're going to have Benack and Parra in the gold round, and I think Parra will win it.'"
Parra said the gold medal solidifies a renewed sense of worth, and means overcoming an injury can be just the beginning for the competitors here.
"No matter how bad your wounds are, and no matter how bad you're hurt, we can still come out here and do this," the Prescott, Ariz., native said. "We can still compete and be champions and be winners." But winning the competition was no walk in the park, he acknowledged.
"The competition was close," Parra said. "I looked down the line and tried not to let my nerves get to me, because everyone put their heart into the game. This win wasn't just given away."
Dozens of servicemembers went head to head, but in the end, the compound-bow competition came down to Marine against Marine. The shootout seemed more like a friendly practice round, as the two Marines encouraged each other and even offered pointers during the final rounds of competition. With a difference of only one point separating the two wounded warriors, the event kept both the audience and the competitors on their toes.
Although medals were on the line, Benack said, something more important was going on. All of the wounded warriors, he noted, share a common past and a common goal to recovery. The best part of the Warrior Games is the camaraderie among the services and the way the competitors help and encourage each other through whatever difficulties they face.
Parra said winning the gold medal gives him the confidence to move on and continue recovering.
"It gives you the mindset to take focus off of [post-traumatic stress disorder] and shift it to the game," he said.
Marines also competed in the recurve-bow competition, but failed to place. The Army took all three medals, with the Marines finishing a close fourth. Sgt. Michael Lukow earned gold, Staff Sgt. Curtis Winston won silver, and their fellow soldier Sgt. Jeffery Anderson took the bronze medal.
USNH Yokosuka Honors Caregivers with Appreciation Day
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mike Mulcare, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Det. Japan
May 13, 2010 - YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka's U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) honored its caregivers by declaring May 12 Caregiver Appreciation Day.
Caregivers are the civilian volunteers, Department of Defense medical personnel and service members who provide care to patients such as Hospital Corpsman, chaplains, medical officers, and others who play a role in caring.
"Today, we're celebrating our caregivers with Caregiver Appreciation Day," said Lt. j.g. Michael Anderson, hospital chaplain and Bay City, Mich., native. "We'd like to recognize all the sacrifices caregivers and their families give for the benefit of the mission."
This year marked the first Caregiver Appreciation Day in Yokosuka. The day offered caregivers and their families a magic show for children; a symposium on operational stress, self care, and spirituality and an open floor question and answer session with Anderson.
"I came out here to offer my personal thanks to caregivers," said Mike Applegate, a Red Cross volunteer and magician for the event. "This is the first time anything has been done on this level. We're recognizing what the caregivers do and I thank them for that."
The goal of the symposium was to offer caregivers tools and training on how to care for themselves. Numerous service members from USNH agree that in caring for others, caregivers often neglect caring for themselves.
"Caregivers, because they take care of so many people, often neglect self-care. This conference today has professionals who provide tips and methods for self-care," said Anderson. "Care for the caregiver is very important with all the stresses and high-tempo operations they take part in."
Capt. Kevin D. Moore, the hospital's commanding officer shared his gratitude to caregivers.
"I'd like to thank you all for the things you do and the sarifices you make," said Moore. "It truly is an honor to serve next to each and every one of you."
May 13, 2010 - YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka's U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) honored its caregivers by declaring May 12 Caregiver Appreciation Day.
Caregivers are the civilian volunteers, Department of Defense medical personnel and service members who provide care to patients such as Hospital Corpsman, chaplains, medical officers, and others who play a role in caring.
"Today, we're celebrating our caregivers with Caregiver Appreciation Day," said Lt. j.g. Michael Anderson, hospital chaplain and Bay City, Mich., native. "We'd like to recognize all the sacrifices caregivers and their families give for the benefit of the mission."
This year marked the first Caregiver Appreciation Day in Yokosuka. The day offered caregivers and their families a magic show for children; a symposium on operational stress, self care, and spirituality and an open floor question and answer session with Anderson.
"I came out here to offer my personal thanks to caregivers," said Mike Applegate, a Red Cross volunteer and magician for the event. "This is the first time anything has been done on this level. We're recognizing what the caregivers do and I thank them for that."
The goal of the symposium was to offer caregivers tools and training on how to care for themselves. Numerous service members from USNH agree that in caring for others, caregivers often neglect caring for themselves.
"Caregivers, because they take care of so many people, often neglect self-care. This conference today has professionals who provide tips and methods for self-care," said Anderson. "Care for the caregiver is very important with all the stresses and high-tempo operations they take part in."
Capt. Kevin D. Moore, the hospital's commanding officer shared his gratitude to caregivers.
"I'd like to thank you all for the things you do and the sarifices you make," said Moore. "It truly is an honor to serve next to each and every one of you."
Safe Harbor Provide Sideline Support at Warrior Games
May 13, 2010 - COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (NNS) -- Three days into the inaugural Wounded Warrior Games at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., the Team Navy's fans are still going strong.
The stands are crowded with spectators, cheering for their family or fellow services members, but none so loud as those in blue and yellow. Team Navy's fans stand out in the crowds, shaking pom-poms and jangling yellow cowbells distributed by Navy Safe Harbor in what were referred to as Navy pride packs.
However, noisemakers were not the only way Safe Harbor contributed to the athlete's journey to the games. Navy Safe Harbor has played a major role in the inaugural Wounded Warrior games, starting with the first step.
"We were basically the recruiting agency for the athletes for the Navy and the Coast Guard," said Lt. Courtney Pollman, Navy Safe Harbor's Special Projects Analyst. "We brought a support staff of 15 people to support our athletes here by providing around the clock availability to a doctor, a physical therapist, a coach, anything from running out and getting them last minute stuff they didn't know they needed, to getting them from point A to point B in time."
Navy Safe Harbor is the Navy's lead organization for coordinating the non-medical care of wounded, ill, and injured Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and their families.
"We provide the Sailors and coast guardsmen with assistance in navigating the bureaucracy," said Lt. Courtney Pollman, Navy Safe Harbor's Special Projects Analyst. "We don't necessarily give them access to anything they aren't already entitled to, but we help them sort out what they're entitled to, what they need, what's in their best interests... We help them establish goals and we help get them there."
"They have pretty much organized, coordinated, and done everything for the Navy warriors as well as their families and spouses," said Stephanie Rose, a Navy Wounded Warrior. "They secured hotels and shuttle services for us, they flew us out here, and they've been ultimately really supportive ever since we've arrived."
The first medal was handed out on day three of the games, and though the Navy team was not the recipient, spirits have not fallen on the courts or in the bleachers. Navy Safe Harbor's Program Director, Capt. Oakley Watkins said the Warrior Games are an outstanding opportunity for competitors to capitalize on and demonstrate their abilities rather than showcasing their disabilities.
"It's really motivating for them as individuals and the whole team to show that they have abilities and they can do things that even some people who are not injured can do," Watkins said. "This really shows the team spirit, that competitiveness between the different services, and shares in that camaraderie that they have, that commonality of being injured. There's no difference between a wounded soldier or a wounded Sailor."
From May 10 to 14, more than 200 service members are participating in the inaugural version of the Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo. The Warrior Games are a joint venture of the Defense Department, the U.S. Olympic Committee and the USO to promote the positive impact adaptive sports can have on veterans dealing with disabilities.
Elmendorf officials to open Fisher House
3rd Wing Public Affairs
5/12/2010 - ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (AFNS) -- Airmen here will take the first big step in building a haven for their wounded brethren when the groundbreaking for the Fisher House of Alaska takes place May 15.
The groundbreaking ceremony is going to be held in concert with the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Anchorage Veteran Affairs Outpatient Clinic and Regional Office.
It is fitting that both ceremonies would be held on the same day, said Lt. Col. Andrea Vinyard, the 3rd Wing Fisher House point of contact and commander of the 3rd Medical Support Squadron. In addition to being located next to each other, personnel from both organizations will be working hand-in-hand.
"The groundbreaking is going to be a fairly significant day for us," Colonel Vinyard said. "It is an incredible project to be a part of."
Fisher House is an organization that provides lodging for patients and families of patients hospitalized at military medical centers. The lodging is either very inexpensive or free. There are now Fisher Houses all across the United States since the first one opened in 1993. The Fisher House here will be the first one built in the Pacific Air Forces area of responsibility.
The foundation was started by Zachary Fisher, a prominent real estate figure and philanthropist. A leg injury barred him from serving in World War II, but he spent the rest of his life giving back to the military. The Fisher House program was created when he learned of people forced to sleep in their cars because they couldn't afford hotel lodging to be near their hospitalized loved ones.
"It will be a great place for our wounded warriors and their families to relax and make themselves comfortable while they are recuperating here either at the base hospital or getting care in the local community," Colonel Vinyard said.
The colonel said approximately 115,000 Defense Department beneficiaries and their families, located all across Alaska, will be eligible to use the Fisher House here. As part of her work as the Fisher House POC, the colonel visited Fisher Houses in Virginia and Texas. She said she was impressed with what she saw.
"I think it is a fantastic program," Colonel Vinyard said. "One of the things I was overwhelmed with is the (number) of volunteers who came out to help."
She said that it wasn't just military members and base residents volunteering to help. Local community groups of all types pitched in to help as well.
"They were all giving something back to those who have given to us and helped keep us free.
Colonel Vinyard said that there are no firm dates for when construction will be complete on this Fisher House. She said that construction will be heavy on the house all summer and that the estimated completion date is approximately 12-18 months after the groundbreaking.
Air Force Volleyball Team Remains Unbeaten
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
May 13, 2010 – The Air Force sitting volleyball team took down two Army teams May 11 and yesterday to finish undefeated in pool play and advance to the semifinals at the inaugural Warrior Games here.With only a week and a day of formal practice, Head Coach Nicki Marino said, the Air Force volleyball team stuck to the basics, which has helped them win.
“They are so excited to be out here, and they are really doing a great job of just being a team,” Marino said. “They did a great job of just slowing things down and getting our passes up and really digging in and getting a lot of balls up. We are just frustrating other teams. It’s fun.”
In the first round of pool play May 11, the Air Force team defeated the Army 1 team in two games, 27-25 and 25-16. The Air Force team won its second game by forfeit, and its third match, with the Army 4 team, was decided in three games.
The first game of the match went to the Army team, 26-24.
“We rallied together to rebound from the first game,” said Matt Sanders, the Air Force team captain, who also made the last kill of the match. “When someone made a mistake, we said ‘It’s OK, we’ll get them on the next play,’ and we got them on the next play.”
The Air Force team answered back in the second game, 25-17, forcing the teams to play a final game for the match. The Air Force scored early in the third match, and with one point remaining to win, Marino called time out.
“We don’t need heroes; we just need basics,” Marino said she told her team during the last match. “They really wanted it, so there wasn’t much we as coaches needed to do at that point.”
The Air Force team won the last game, 15-7.
One Air Force team member attributed the team’s success to its “iron curtain” defense.
“That’s our front line,” said retired Staff Sgt. Richard Tackett. “When they serve the volleyball over, we put it back down and force them to play. I think that when we can serve the ball over and force them to play us that we are stronger, and we put our hands up to play really good defense. We put the pressure on them, and it’s smooth sailing from there.
“We’re going to proceed until we win gold,” he added. “We’re not going to stop.”
USS Constitution Sailors Give Caps for Kids
May 13, 2010 - SPOKANE, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Constitution Sailors gave Navy ball caps to children during Caps for Kids visits at Sacred Heart and Shriners Hospitals in Spokane, Wash., May 10.
Command Master Chief (SW/SS/AW) David Twiford, Aircrew Survival Equipmentman 2nd Class (AW/SW) Jason Keith, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (SW) Dana Loney, Airman Trina Pardo and Seaman Mark Gonzales participated in the Navy Office of Community Outreach-managed visits as part of Spokane Navy Week, May 10-15.
"It always feels very good to give like this," said Loney. "I've done Caps for Kids visits before, and it never fails to make you appreciate the work we're doing and the things we should not take for granted."
Constitution's Sailors gave 12 ball caps in total and words of encouragement to children they visited.
"I just wanted them to know that I may not understand exactly what they're going through, but I still hope they get better, and I hope by us being here today, they know we do care about them," said Gonzales.
Caps for Kids became a national outreach effort in 2000. Since then, more than 300 commands and thousands of Sailors have donated ball caps to more than 500 hospitals across the U.S. Most of the children who were given ball caps are dealing with long-term or lifelong health issues.
"It was one of the big points of my day, because when lying in a hospital, I can't do much," said Nicholas Nelson, 15. "And I look up to the people who do this, because they are fighting for our freedoms."
Spokane is one of 20 Navy Weeks planned across America for 2010. Navy Weeks show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.
Constitution's Sailors participate in more than 50 volunteer projects annually. The ship is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston. Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year.
Soldier Becomes U.S. Citizen
Joint Task Force Guantanamo
May 13, 2010 - Army Spc. Carlos Baptista of the Rhode Island Army National Guard's 115th Military Police Company had dreamed of becoming an American citizen since he left the island country of Cape Verde off the African coast when he was just 4 years old. Twenty years later, that dream became a reality when he took the oath of allegiance while deployed here with Joint Task Force Guantanamo.
Completing the process makes Baptista proud – and his parents, as well, he said.
"I know this brings a big smile to my parents' faces," Baptista said with a smile of his own, shortly after taking the oath that officially made him a citizen of the country he'd already sworn to support and defend almost four years ago. Along with Baptista, Army Sgt. Ardicio Galvao and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jo Kurosu received their citizenship during the naturalization ceremony.
Baptista joined the Rhode Island Army National Guard on Sept. 11, 2006, and he made it clear it was no coincidence he joined on that date. But while getting his citizenship has always been a goal, he said, it was easier said than done.
"I've always been very busy, but I needed to start working on my citizenship," Baptista said. "[I had to] get it while in Cuba to come on this deployment. I was really lucky to have so many people help me. My command gave me the time I needed to study and prepare."
Army Capt. Nicolas Pacheco, 115th Military Police Company commander, said he's glad to see his soldier's hard work pay off.
"He was very passionate and dedicated," Pacheco said. "We were all proud to see him raise his hand in the first recorded naturalization ceremony in Guantanamo Bay."
Baptista mentioned two of his former officers who he said were instrumental in encouraging him to pursue his dream of citizenship. Army Maj. Samuel Maldonado and Army Capt. Alex Arroyo "gave a lot of their spare time to help me get everything done properly," Baptista said.
"They didn't have to help," he added, "but I'm glad they did."
Baptista was given an American flag during the ceremony. The flag, he said, will be safely sent home and respected.
Now that he's an American citizen, Baptista said, he's glad he can do things he couldn't before, such as applying for a security clearance and an American passport and apply to bring more of his family to the country he has called home for most of his life.
"I always felt like something was missing," Baptista said. "But now that I'm an American citizen, I feel complete."
High School Students Tour Submarine as they Build their Own
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers, Submarine group 2 Public Affairs
GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Students and faculty from Old Saybrook High School visited Submarine Base New London May 10 to tour Virginia-class attack submarine USS Virginia (SSN 774) and Naval Submarine School as part of research and planning process to build their own submersible vessel.
Upon completion, the students plan to build and race their manned, 11-foot submersible at the 11th Annual International Submarine Races held in Bethesda, Md. in June 2011.
"While we got to have some fun, I believe the lesson I learned today is that teamwork is the big key, but, we also need to further develop ways to stop flooding," said Shannon Jorgensen, student team captain.
According to project coordinator Fred Frese, the school's wood shop teacher, Old Saybrook received an invitation after working closely with the Navy on a previous project.
"We are one of three engineering schools in the country invited to this event," said Frese.
Frese also said the students will be training to race even as the vessel is under construction.
"This is their senior project. They all volunteered to undertake this task," Frese said. "Not only will they do all the construction, but they will write a report and give a presentation at the competition."
Lt. Cmdr. Thomas O'Donnell, Virginia's engineering officer, examined a scale model of the project and a drawing of the internal components brought by Frese.
"This is just amazing," O'Donnell said. "I'm a submariner and a diver, but I'm not sure I would be up to the task of driving this vessel."
Frese recently completed a four-year project with a previous class. They built a full-size replica of the world's first combat submarine, known as the Turtle, invented by David Bushnell.
GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Students and faculty from Old Saybrook High School visited Submarine Base New London May 10 to tour Virginia-class attack submarine USS Virginia (SSN 774) and Naval Submarine School as part of research and planning process to build their own submersible vessel.
Upon completion, the students plan to build and race their manned, 11-foot submersible at the 11th Annual International Submarine Races held in Bethesda, Md. in June 2011.
"While we got to have some fun, I believe the lesson I learned today is that teamwork is the big key, but, we also need to further develop ways to stop flooding," said Shannon Jorgensen, student team captain.
According to project coordinator Fred Frese, the school's wood shop teacher, Old Saybrook received an invitation after working closely with the Navy on a previous project.
"We are one of three engineering schools in the country invited to this event," said Frese.
Frese also said the students will be training to race even as the vessel is under construction.
"This is their senior project. They all volunteered to undertake this task," Frese said. "Not only will they do all the construction, but they will write a report and give a presentation at the competition."
Lt. Cmdr. Thomas O'Donnell, Virginia's engineering officer, examined a scale model of the project and a drawing of the internal components brought by Frese.
"This is just amazing," O'Donnell said. "I'm a submariner and a diver, but I'm not sure I would be up to the task of driving this vessel."
Frese recently completed a four-year project with a previous class. They built a full-size replica of the world's first combat submarine, known as the Turtle, invented by David Bushnell.
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