Military Mom Cares for Triple Amputee Son

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

SAN ANTONIO, – Saralee Trimble hunches over a craft table, meticulously weaving thin strips of material together to form a basket.

The room is noisy with TVs blaring and people chatting and laughing, but her concentration is unbroken as she focuses on her task.

For just a few brief moments, this mom of five is simply focused on piecing together a basket, rather than the life that was nearly lost to her on a roadside in Afghanistan.

Trimble’s son, Army Pfc. Kevin Trimble, was just four months into his deployment when a fellow soldier standing three feet away stepped on a homemade bomb. The soldier was killed and Trimble lost both of his legs above the knee and his left arm above the elbow.

Trimble was at home in New Orleans when she got the phone call. It’s a call, she said with tears welling up, that she’ll never forget.

The and her husband, Daniel, were told their son had been injured and was in serious condition, but was stable and alert. Shocked at the news, they focused on the positive. “The most important thing was he was alert,” she said.

After a few days in Germany, her son arrived at Brooke Army Medical Center here on Sept. 24, and Trimble, her husband and her children rushed there to greet him.

The toughest moment, Trimble said, was when she saw her son for the first time. “I wanted to cry,” she said, again tearing up at the recollection. “It was heavy, real heavy.”

Not wanting to convey their shock, she and her husband went out in the hall, held each other and cried. Her son had dreamed of being a soldier for as long as she could remember, and joined right out of high school. She knew how devastating this injury would be to him as a man, and a soldier.

“It was really hard,” she said. “He’s 19; he’s my baby.” She then thought of her other children. Four of her five children are in the service: one in the Air Force, two in the Army and one in the Marine Corps Reserve.

Two have deployed multiple times and one expects to go soon, she said. “I thought of Kevin and then, ‘What about them?’”

The Long Recovery

Trimble steeled herself for the long recovery road ahead. Her electrician husband returned home to a foreman job they couldn’t afford for him to lose, and she settled in at the hospital. She grimaced as she recollected those early days of recovery.

“It was very traumatic, no way around it, it just is,” she said.

Trimble said her son was boiling hot all the time so they placed ice packs on his shoulders and constantly doused his face and neck with cold water. He was on pain medication, but even that couldn’t fully prevent the pain. “You can’t avoid it; it’s part of it,” she said.

Throughout, Kevin remained positive, Trimble said, with only a few moments of despair. “A few times he’s broken down and said, ‘Mom, look at me. What good am I?’”

In those moments, Trimble said all she could do was pray with her son and assure him he’d be OK. She never, even from the start, had a doubt that he’d pull through, she said.

Trimble said her son reached a turning point when a group of wounded warriors, including several triple amputees, came to see him at his bedside. “That encouraged him so much to see other guys the same as him who were actually getting around and able to do something,” she said.

Kevin checked out of the hospital less than two months after his injury, and is about to start his therapy at the Center for the Intrepid, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation center just steps away from the hospital.

He’s had one two-hour physical therapy session so far, Trimble said, and that one “wiped him out.” “They had him getting from the wheelchair onto the floor and then back up,” she said, noting that’s no easy feat with just one arm. “When he came back he didn’t want to do nothing but sleep.

“But that’s good,” she added. “He needs that challenge.”

Next up, he’ll be fitted for a prosthetic arm, and later prosthetic legs. The sooner he can use his limbs and gain independence, the better, Trimble said.

Meanwhile, she is helping him get acclimated to his “new normal” by taking him on outings, whether it’s to Sea World or to play miniature golf. He had a great time golfing, she said, but was saddened by the children’s stares.

“I told him, ‘You know you’re going to have that the rest of your life,’” she said. “‘You are different from everyone else, but that doesn’t say who you are. You still are who you are.’”

The Challenges of Caregiving

It’s been a rough couple of months and Trimble acknowledged the stress that accompanies full-time caregiving. Fearful of the devastating impact of a fall, she isn’t comfortable yet leaving her son alone. And she only has brief respites during appointments or when one of her children is there to help. But even a short break can provide a big recharge, she said.

When she’s not by her son’s side, Trimble finds respite, and solace, in the Warrior and Family Support Center, a sprawling 12,500–square-foot facility here. The center offers a place for families and wounded warriors to relax, reconnect or just have a cup of coffee. Along with computers, video games, movies and books, the center offers a host of outings, and craft classes to service members and their families.

Trimble is a familiar face at the craft tables. One day she’ll be seen weaving baskets, and the next she is building a mosaic or stained glass creation. Her son and other family members often join in, as well. On this day, Kevin and his brother and sister -- visiting here on military leave -- stopped by for a leatherworking class. They joked and laughed as they worked on their creations. Kevin was making a belt with help from his brother, Ben.

As he worked, Kevin said he was grateful for his mom’s presence. “Things would be harder without her,” he acknowledged.

Having family around is vital for a wounded warrior’s recovery, his mother noted. “It’s very important for them to have support,” she said. “Look at Kevin. It’s not even two months and look where he’s at.”

Trimble said they’ll most likely be here for another two years. Her son’s goal is to graduate from the Center for the Intrepid on his 21st birthday, May 22, 2013.

Meanwhile, Trimble has a long road of caregiving ahead, but said she’s up to the task. The toughest challenge for her isn’t the lack of time alone or the stress, she said, it’s seeing her son in pain. “That’s one reason why you want to take a break,” she said. “Knowing that he’s suffering … that’s very hard.”

With two years of separation from her husband looming, Trimble said the time apart will be tough. Plus, she’s worried about how he’s maintaining their home in her absence. “I’m sure no one is running the broom while I’m away,” she joked.

But despite the ongoing struggles, Trimble said she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’ll be by her son’s side for as long as he needs her to be.

“He’s my son. Caring for him … I couldn’t ask for anything more special.”

Imperial Beach Supports Sailors, Families with Thanksgiving Baskets

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Amanda Huntoon, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Base Coronado Sailors were selected to participate in the ninth annual Thanksgiving basket giveaway aboard the base, Nov. 17.

Each individual command at Naval Base Coronado nominated a few Sailors who needed additional support during the holidays. Three hundred Sailors and their families received baskets with everything needed for a complete Thanksgiving Day meal.

"Each year I am totally amazed at the amount of compassion and care that the vendors show towards the military," said Naval Base Coronado Command Master Chief Kenneth Shivers. "The support is astonishing. I am amazed at the amount of support in San Diego around this time of year.

"The amount of people, both military and non-military, who call my office offering support for the Sailors, from Adopt-a-Family to people opening their homes up to the Sailors who don't have a place to go during the holidays, I find it very remarkable," said Shivers.

The baskets included an 18-20 pound turkey, celery, stuffing, a loaf of bread, cranberry sauce, sugar cookie mix, gravy mix, broth, potatoes, and a roasting pan.

"We started this in 2002, with probably about $50 and three vendors, and through the years we continue to get more and more participation from the vendors, and we receive more funds, which allow us to help more Sailors," said Freddie Espiritu, Imperial Beach Commissary store director. "The Store's main intention is to be the store for military members and families, and we want to show our appreciation and our support for the active duty members of this base by providing the Sailors with a holiday meal."

According to Espiritu, this year the Imperial Beach Commissary brought in a total of $10,000 for their Thanksgiving basket collection. This money came from donations made from their vendors.

"It is really great for them to do this for military families, especially my family, because this year we have had a really hard time," said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Raymundo Aguilar, assigned to the "Firehawks" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85. "My father-in-law passed away, and this thanksgiving basket is going to provide for my family. I have three kids and my spouse and with the economy being hard, this is really helpful."

The Sailors also participated in a drawing where they received additional gifts which included hams, televisions, toys, and gift bags.

"It is really wonderful to support what these women and gentleman do for our country," said Peter LaMontia, a vendor with WEBCO General Partnership. "It's amazing. You see their faces, and you really get a sense of your heart going out to them. I am so blessed to be a part of this."

What Happens When an Author Dies Shortly Before Pub Date?

Her Book includes advice to military on how to deal with deployment over the holidays

When the unexpected death of the author occurs shortly before the pub date of her new book, the publisher is usually without contingency. Promotional plans centered on the author become meaningless.

When Bonnie Domrose Stone, died shortly before the November pub date of her newest book Beating the GI Blues: The Military Spouse’s Guide to Living Well withUncle Sam, a radio tour was scuttled, plans for book signings at post exchanges put aside as were speaking tours at military bases.

But Bonnie Domrose Stone had been a military wife and people in the military have a special bond. There is something special about relationships forged in sacrifice. Bonnie’s friends made a promise to her, as she was dying, that they would promote Beating the GI Blues for her.

And that they are doing.  A book event at the Barnes and Noble bookstore in Palmdale, California on December 5th will be hosted by two friends and fellow authors Ellie Kay and Joan Fry, and Ellie Kay a media professional and author of Heroes at Home volunteered to handle media appearances to discuss the depth of information in her friend’s new book. It includes advice, poignantly, about how to deal with the holidays when deployment separates the family.

Beating the GI Blues: The Military Spouse’s Guide to Living Well with Uncle Sam, covers the vital and little understood points of importance critical to enlisted personnel in this time of multiple wars, and details what the enlisted spouse needs to know and how to get it in the vast superstructure of the American military.

Beating the GI Blues 9781933909103, is published by Today's Books an imprint of History Publishing Company LLC. Pub date, November 22, 2011,  soft cover at $17.95. in bookstores nationally.

Blue Ridge Completes Sea Trials

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mel Orr, USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- United States Navy 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) completed three days of sea trials Nov. 16, after extensive training, a planned maintenance period and a successful light off assessment.

According to Blue Ridge Damage Control Assistant Lt. Jerry Belmonte, the crew was fully engaged in preparations leading up to sea trials after a two-month maintenance period with Ship Repair Facility (SRF) aboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

"We conducted testing on equipment that was repaired during SRF to ensure everything worked properly," Belmonte said. "The crew put in a tremendous level of hard work to get the job done right, and it paid off."

Such testing included bringing the ship to full power, flexing the boiler plants and testing relief valves, boiler safety and electrical generator plants.

Additionally, crew members participated in damage control exercises, proving proficiency within repair lockers and setting material conditions of readiness in an expeditious manner.

"The Engineering department and program managers performed safely and professionally throughout the assessment in demonstrating material checks and program reviews," said Lt. Cmdr. Eric Williams, Commander Task Force 76 training and readiness officer and senior engineering assessor. "The engineering spaces were at the highest standards of material readiness, looked amazing and minimum discrepancies were noted. All programs are in place, and program managers are heavily engaged."

Leading up to sea trials, engineers put in long hours to get ready for a light off assessment conducted by Expeditionary Strike Group 7 with assistance from Afloat Training Group Western Pacific. The ship's Engineering department conducted a series of checks and a main space fire drill as part of the assessment. During the assessment, each engineering system was verified as functional.

"Failing this assessment was not an option," said Master Chief Machinist's Mate (SW) Gilfredo Belantes, Engineering department leading chief petty officer. "Our Sailors were motivated to provide a quality example of damage control knowledge and ship readiness."

Blue Ridge Commanding Officer Capt. Dan Grieco, expressed his appreciation to the crew for its efforts in getting the ship ready.

"I am tremendously proud of the crew's performance during sea trials," Grieco said. "I give great credit to the engineers, combat systems technicians and flight deck teams for their tireless efforts to return the ship to underway operations and full certification after an extensive maintenance period."

Blue Ridge serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, and is the command ship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered aboard White Beach Naval Facility Okinawa, Japan, with an operations detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka Supports Diplomacy Tours

By H. Sam Samuelson, NAVSUP GLS Corporate Communications

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Yokosuka lends ongoing logistics support to President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during their visit to the Asia-Pacific region Nov. 16-20.

"Our sites in Singapore, Indonesia and the Republic of the Philippines are a networked military logistics backbone for these visits," said Cmdr. Jose Sanchez, NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka's operations officer.

"From area transportation, to lodging, and direct fleet support to ships with Joint Task Force (JTF) POTUS Support, we are ensuring the president and the secretary of state receive everything and anything they need to accomplish their missions," he said.

Obama will visit Indonesia for a security summit with Asian nations; meanwhile, Clinton will visit the Philippines to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the U.S. - Republic of the Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.

Obama's visit to Indonesia requires significant logistics planning among NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka and Sites Jakarta and Singapore.

Preparations for the executive level visit began when a logistics line of communication (LOC) system was established to ensure the supply and delivery of immediate or emergent material support for JTF POTUS platforms USS Essex (LHD 2) and USS Stethem (DDG 63) when and as often as needed.

"One true measure of the LOC is how quickly it allows our different sites and dets to connect, communicate and respond," Sanchez said. "It's providing the right support at the right time, every time."

Sanchez said NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka, Site Jakarta partnership with the Embassy of the United States Jakarta, remains a critical link for the POTUS visit.

"We're juggling resources from multiple agencies to provide direct logistics support for this visit," said NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Site Jakarta's Logistics Specialist 1st Class Mark Bettencourt, FLC Yokosuka's go-to logistics point of contact in Indonesia.

Meanwhile NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka's Site, Manila arranged logistics support for the USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) the selected platform for the U.S - R.P. Mutual Defense Treaty 60th anniversary commemoration at which Clinton attended to represent the United States.

"Even before the secretary's visit, we rushed parts, equipment and mail to the Fitzgerald while arranging to get the ship pier side," said NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Site Director Jun Garcia. "And one day before the ceremony, we delivered four pallets of administrative supplies.

"We take a lot of pride in providing logistics services to the fleet," Garcia said, "especially when one of those fleet platforms serves as the center stage for an important event as the mutual defense commemoration and a visit by the secretary of state.

Face of Defense: Producers Seek ‘Army Wives’ in Alaska

By Army Staff Sgt. Matthew E. Winstead
U.S. Army Alaska

See some of the best military books including those written by real Army wives!

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska, Nov. 17, 2011 – A television production company is looking for military family members to appear in a new show about military spouses in Alaska.

The company, 44 Blue Productions based in Los Angeles, is developing what it describes as a documentary series for the Oprah Winfrey Network.

The show, Army Wives of Alaska, is to focus on the real-world lives, struggles and sacrifices of military spouses stationed in the 49th state.

“This program will help to raise the awareness of the national community of the sense of duty that the family has, as well as the soldiers in uniform,” said Army Lt. Col. John Clearwater, film and television liaison for Army public affairs in Los Angeles.

The production company is scheduled to meet with spouses in Alaska the week of Nov. 28.

The show came about, in part, due to the efforts of Stephanie Woodard, whose husband, Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Brian “Clint” Woodard, is a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot with Company A, 1st Battalion, 52nd Aviation Regiment at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

“I found information on an old casting for a show that never launched and asked if they were still looking for volunteer cast [members],” she said. “They said no, but I started talking about some of the wives’ experiences anyway and they got interested.”

It’s important for military families to be able to tell their stories to the public, Woodard said, especially in an era of repeated deployments.

“Yes, there are tough times. Yes, there are fears that naturally come with a deployment, but the close bonds you can form with other military families are unique and will get you through those times,” she added. “No matter how hard someone tries, you just can’t get that kind of understanding from someone who has never been in that situation.”

After several phone calls and meetings with producers, the Army warmed up to the idea, Woodard said. Eventually, Army public affairs granted approval for 44 Blue to cast volunteers for the show.

The show is the first of its kind to be approved for production on a military installation, Clearwater said.

“This is a cutting-edge project,” he said. “There hasn’t been a program similar to this at any time previously within the Army. This is an opportunity to show the nation just how much effort our military families contribute to the service of their soldiers. It’s a commitment just as deep as [that of] any service member.”

It is also a commitment that many soldiers say they couldn’t do without.

“My wife has been an invaluable asset to me,” said Army Staff Sgt. Germaine Pitt, a section chief for the fuel platoon assigned to Company A, 725th Brigade Support Battalion. “She has always been supportive. I couldn’t be as successful as I am without her.”

Stephanie Drachkovitch, one of the co-founders of 44 Blue, is uniquely qualified to help portray military families in Alaska. The daughter of a career Army officer, Drachkovitch lived in Alaska, her mother’s home state, while her father served in Vietnam.

“My mother and father actually met while he was stationed up there in Alaska during his first assignment there,” Drachkovitch said. “Alaska is a beautiful area and I just so happen to know a little bit about the kind of bonds people can make while living there, which is just one of the many reasons I think the show will resonate with viewers.”

Drachkovitch said she wants to see as many people apply for the casting as possible.

“We expect to, ultimately, cast the same number of families from each area [Fort Wainwright and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson] in the end,” she said, “so everyone should feel free to still apply.”

Many of the wives are doing just that. Traci Moran, whose husband, Army Spc. Jared Moran, is a paralegal representative for 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, has submitted her application in the hopes of getting a positive message out to the public.

“I wanted to make sure that we help show a true portrayal of a real Army wife,” Moran said. “We’re not all about drama and scandal. We’re not completely helpless while our husbands are deployed either. We are strong, independent and able to fill the roles of our husbands while they’re away.

“I want to do my part and help show how we hold things together while they’re gone,” she added.

The show’s producers say they hope there will be more families who are willing to share their stories

Deadline Approaches for Stars and Stripes Holiday Greetings

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2011 – Thanksgiving is just a week away, and closely behind it, the deadline for submitting holiday messages and photos to appear in Stars and Stripes newspapers and its online editions.

“Stripes” is continuing its tradition of publishing free holiday messages to family members and friends, no matter where they are deployed or stationed, officials said.

Messages submitted by Nov. 28 will appear in the Dec. 17 newspaper edition of the sender’s choice: Europe, Mideast or Pacific. Greetings received after that date, or to recipients in the United States, will appear in the online version only, officials said.

Messages can be submitted on the Stars and Stripes website at http://holidaymessages.stripes.osd.mil/. Click “Submit message,” and then either “Text” or “Picture Message.”

Once the message is approved for publication, senders can search or browse messages by edition or the recipient’s name using the site’s publication tabs or “Find Messages” button.

Obama Announces Expanded U.S. Military Presence in Australia

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2011 – President Barack Obama joined Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard today to announce expanded military-to-military relationships between the two countries as they commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Australia-New Zealand-U.S. alliance.

Speaking at a joint news conference in the Australian capital of Canberra, the leaders announced closer collaboration between the U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force and the Australian Defense Force.

Beginning in mid-2012, company-size rotations of 200 to 250 Marines will begin deploying near Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory for six-month rotations. Gillard said the presence will expand to a force of 2,500 over the next several years.

“As of today’s deal, U.S. Marines will be for the first time conducting exercises by themselves on Australian soil,” Obama said.

This rotational deployment is significant because it allows the United States and Australia to build capacity and cooperation, the president said.

“But it also allows us to meet the demands of a lot of partners in the region” in terms of training, exercises and “the presence that’s necessary to maintain the security architecture of the region,” he added.

Obama and Gillard also agreed to provide U.S. military aircraft greater access to Royal Australian Air Force facilities in northern Australia.

The expanded relationship will ensure “we’re going to be in a position to more effectively strengthen the security of both of our nations and this region,” Obama said.

It also will ensure an ability to respond faster to crises and provide humanitarian and disaster relief, he said. “This will allow us to be able to respond in a more timely fashion and also equip a lot of … smaller countries who may not have the same capacity,” he said. “It allows us to equip them so that they can respond more quickly as well.”

The expanded U.S.-Australia military relationship also “sends a clear message of our commitment to this region, a commitment that is enduring and unwavering” the president said.

“I am making it clear that the United States is stepping up its commitment to the entire Asia-Pacific [region],” the president said, thanking Australia for its leadership role in the region.

“As it has been for six decades” he continued, “our alliance is going to be indispensable to our shared future, the security we need and the prosperity that we seek, not only in this region, but around the world.”

The talks in Australia spanned a range of challenges that extend beyond the region, including the International Security Assistance Force mission in Afghanistan, the president said.

“Obviously, this has not been an easy mission for either of our countries,” he said, expressing condolences for Australia’s fallen. “But we both understand what’s at stake -- what happens when al-Qaida has safe havens. We’ve seen the awful loss of life, from 9/11 to Bali.”

Obama cited progress in the transition process in Afghanistan as security responsibility is transferred to Afghan security forces.

“But it’s important that we do it right,” he said. “Given the enormous investment that’s been made and the signs that we can, in fact, leave behind a country that’s not perfect, but one that is more stable, more secure and does not provide safe haven for terrorists, it’s appropriate for us to finish the job and do it right.”

Motorcycle Safety Classes Begin at Seal Beach

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Eli J. Medellin, Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Public Affairs

SEAL BEACH, Calif. (NNS) -- Motorcycle riders stationed in and around Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach had the opportunity to sharpen their skills and learn from experienced riders during the command's first Motorcycle Safety Foundation Experienced Rider Course, Nov. 15.

Statistics released by the Naval Safety Center reveal that motorcycle fatalities in 2008 reflected a higher than expected percentage of Navy personnel. In 2009, motorcycle safety classes began to be offered to military and civilian cyclists. Since then, fatalities have declined due to this training.

"Our goal is to reduce motorcycle fatalities with the use of the training and initiatives that are in place," said James Olinger, Safety Installation Program director at the weapons station. "This course will be offered based on the customer's wants and needs. Once the word spreads of Seal Beach having a certified range, our courses may be provided on a weekly basis."

Although classes are held throughout the Southwest region, this is the first one held at Seal Beach, and is offered to all military and DoD civilian personnel and their dependants.

"We conduct all the different exercises to improve their skills such as stopping, going into a corner slowly before you enter, so they can be better riders on the road and avoid any risks that are out there" said Janet Buzan, a traffic safety instructor for Cape Fox Professional Services.

The basic and experienced rider courses are mandated by the Naval Safety Center for anyone riding a motorcycle on any military installation. Cyclists wishing to enroll should contact their departmental motorcycle safety representative or log on to the Enterprise Safety Application Management System (ESAMS).

This Day in Naval History - Nov. 15

From the Navy News Service

1882 - Lt. Cmdr. French Chadwick reports to American Legation in London as first naval attache.

1942 - Although U.S. lost several ships in the naval battle of Guadalcanal, Naval Force under Rear Adm. Willlis Lee, USS Washington (BB 56), turns back Japanese transports trying to reinforce Guadalcanal. The Japanese never again try to send large naval forces to Guadalcanal.
1960 - First Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine, USS George Washington (SSBN 598), leaves Charleston, S.C., on initial fleet ballistic missile patrol.

First Lady to Vets: ‘America Does Have Your Back’

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2011 – First Lady Michelle Obama continues to keep service members, their families and veterans in the minds of the American public while pushing to secure more jobs for veterans and military spouses.

Speaking yesterday at a jobs fair at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, the first lady spoke about the “Joining Forces” campaign and creating more jobs for veterans.

“What we're doing through Joining Forces is rallying all of America to recognize and honor and support our veterans and military families,” she said. “As part of this effort, we've issued a simple challenge to America's businesses -- we've asked them to step up and hire as many veterans and military spouses as they can.”

The first lady said the response to this challenge has been “overwhelming.”

“The Chamber of Commerce has sponsored veterans hiring fairs like this one,” she said. “And they've connected more than 44,000 veterans to more than 2,200 employers in 36 states. And they're going to keep doing it.”

Obama also talked about other tools used to assist military veterans in finding employment.

“We've also launched a website called vetjobbank.com, where you can find veteran-friendly jobs online,” she said. “And that site currently lists more than half a million jobs just waiting to be filled right now.”

The first lady lauded service members for their work ethic and aptitude and said businesses need their skills.

“I know that all of you are some of the highest-skilled, hardest-working, most dedicated employees that we have in this country,” she said. “And that's important for this country to know.

“You all have mastered state of the art technologies [and] run some of the world's most complex operations,” she added.

She noted that the president believes strongly that the nation needs to step up in putting veterans to work.

“As my husband said, ‘No one who's fought for our country abroad should have to fight for a job when they return home,’” she said.

The first lady cited companies such as Siemens and Sears for having hired hundreds of veterans.

“Kmart and Sam's Club have promised to help military spouses keep their jobs if their family is assigned to a new duty station,” Obama said. “In the past month, American businesses have stepped forward with pledges to hire 125,000 additional veterans and military spouses by 2014.”

Meanwhile, she added, each time “we have asked someone to get involved and step up, we've gotten the same answer -- absolutely yes.”

The first lady noted when people are asked, they are stepping up with no hesitation.

“Companies are lining up to sign on,” she said. “They're challenging themselves and each other to do more.”

Obama also noted the president’s proposed tax credit for small businesses that hire veterans.

“And he's working with Secretary [Eric K.] Shinseki and the Veterans Affairs Department to improve the transition process,” she said. “That's something that we hear from you all quite often -- the transition resources have to be better so that you all have the resources and support as you prepare to enter civilian life.”

The first lady said there’s one thing in particular that she wants every veteran, spouse and family member to know.

“America does have your back,” she said. Meanwhile, she encouraged veterans and their families to keep working hard.

“Make no mistake about it, you all represent the very best this country has to offer,” she said. “And that is my goal -- to make sure that everyone in this country understands that.”

Wisconsin Challenge Academy plans open house in Milwaukee

Wisconsin Challenge Academy representatives will conduct an open house and informational session Monday, Nov. 21 for applicants to the academy's next class, which begins Jan. 12, 2012. The event will be held at the National Guard armory, 4108 N. Richards St., from 3-7 p.m.

From 3-5 p.m. Challenge Academy staff members, cadets, and parents of cadets will be available to speak with teens and parents who have an interest in the academy and to assist them with the application process. Educators, health and social services personnel, and juvenile justice officers are also welcome to visit at that time. A presentation by admissions personnel for potential candidates will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The tuition-free Challenge Academy offers "at-risk" youth the opportunity to change the direction of their lives. Challenge Academy cadets participate in the academy's eight core components - academic instruction leading to a Wisconsin High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED); job skills training; physical fitness; health, hygiene and nutrition; leadership; life-coping skills; responsible citizenship; and service to community.

The program is for male and female applicants at least 16 years, 9 months, but not yet 19 years old, who have been expelled, dropped out of high school or, due to truancy, have fallen more than one year behind in credits. Applicants must not be currently charged with or previously convicted of a felony and must not be on adult parole or probation. Cadets attend voluntarily - the academy is not open to placement by court order.

New London Area School Children Create Holiday Cards for the White House

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

See the best United States Navy books written by real Navy veterans for more stories of patriotism and heroism.

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- New London military children are designing holiday cards honoring their service member parent and sending them to the White House, Nov. 15.

The children are designing unique holiday cards in response to First Lady Michelle Obama's request to receive creative cards from military children from throughout the world.

"Submitting these holiday cards gives them an opportunity to have their work shown on a national level as well as validation that their work is on display at the White House," said Karen Bryer, assistant principal, Charles Barnum Elementary School.

Bryer said that all 396 students enrolled at Charles Barnum will submit holidays cards to the White House for the first time this year.

A first grader in Amy Nixon's class summarized it best when describing the task at hand. "We are making pictures of our mommies and daddies for the president and Mrs. Obama to put on the Christmas tree," said Amelia, one of 22 students enrolled in Nixon's first grade class.

Sherry Hanks, third-grade teacher at Charles Barnum said her students were inspired to create holiday cards based on the Veterans Day tribute Nov. 10 and their guest speaker, Capt. Bruce Derenski, commander, Submarine Group 2 representative at General Dynamics Electric Boat who explained how receiving letters from home helped him during his individual augmentee deployment.

"My students are each writing holiday cards to a military person; we all were inspired by Capt. Derenski's speech and the kids could really relate to him," said Hanks.

Hanks added that of the 26 students in her classroom, 24 have a parent serving in the military. "These cards will make someone feel good," said Hanks.

Catherine Hanson, community coordinator at Charles Barnum, added that it is an honor for the New London-area based military to be recognized for their service.

"We're honored to have their parents' service recognized by the White House," said Hanson.

Twenty percent of the children enrolled district-wide has a parent currently serving in the military. At Charles Barnum Elementary School, more than 90 percent of the children have a parent serving in the military.

In addition to Charles Barnum Elementary School, Naval Submarine Base New London Youth Center is also collecting cards created by military children to send to the White House.

Pentagon Monitors Air Force Review of Dover Mortuary

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2011 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has directed that the Air Force report back to him in 30 days on disciplinary action taken against employees at the Dover Port Mortuary in Delaware.

Panetta asked Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley to update him on the Air Force review of disciplinary action taken against employees who last year filed complaints about how some service member remains were handled at the facility, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little told reporters today.

The Air Force inspector general and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel -- an independent federal “watchdog” agency -- investigated the charges. A former commander and two other mortuary officials were disciplined as a result of the investigation, Defense Department officials said.

The Air Force implemented multiple corrective actions as a result of the investigation, officials said.

Little noted the Office of Special Counsel also is reviewing past disciplinary actions and current procedures at the mortuary. The OSC’s work is still ongoing, and the Air Force report will proceed in parallel, the press secretary added.

“The Air Force report won’t and shouldn’t go final until the OSC report is complete,” Little said.

During a Nov. 10 news conference, Panetta said he wants special attention paid to possible management reprisals taken against those employees.

“As someone who voted for the whistleblower legislation, I directed Secretary Donley to report back to me … to ensure that all appropriate action has been taken,” Panetta said.

The defense secretary also emphasized that one of the military’s most profound obligations is to treat service members’ remains with dignity and respect.

U.S. Aid Flows for Turkey Earthquake Relief

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2011 – Pentagon-provided aid to Turkey continues to flow, following two recent earthquakes that shook that country’s eastern region, a senior Defense Department official said today.

Pentagon Press Secretary George Little told reporters that 110 winterized tents have been shipped in response to the Turkish government’s request for assistance.

Blankets, cots, sleeping bags, hygiene kits and other relief supplies were dispatched to Turkey after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Oct. 23, Little said. A magnitude 5.7 tremor struck the area Nov. 9.

This Day in Naval History - Nov. 14

From the Navy News Service

Get the best Navy history from the best United States Navy books written only by Navy veterans!

1846 - Naval forces capture Tampico, Mexico.

1910 - Civilian Eugene Ely pilots first aircraft to take off from a ship, USS Birmingham (CL 2) at Hampton Roads, Va. He lands safely on Willoughby Spit, Norfolk, Va.
1941 - Order to withdraw Marines at Shanghai, Peiping, and Tientsin, China.
1944 - Carrier aircraft attack Japanese shipping in Philippines sinking five ships and damaging one.

White Beach Festival Brings Communities Together

Weekends in Okinawa are great~!  Read about the good times you never had in the best United States Navy books!

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Casey H. Kyhl, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (NNS) -- White Beach Naval Facility hosted a two-day festival for more than 10,000 people to promote friendship and foster mutual appreciation and understanding between the Okinawa community and U.S. service members, Nov. 12-13.

Visitors interacted with Sailors, enjoyed cultural performances and explored the facility.

"This festival is a way to open the base up to the people of Okinawa," said Capt. Rich Weathers, commander, Fleet Activities Okinawa. "It lets them see what we do here and that we are just as big of a part of the community as anything else they see outside the gates."

Festivities began at 11 a.m. and lasted until 10 p.m. both days.

"We were expecting rain throughout the weekend but everything really turned out well for the festival," said Jeff Short, White Beach Naval Facility's complex manager. "We had a lot of static displays and games to keep the kids entertained, offered different types of great food and put on a few very successful musical performances."

The U.S. 7th Fleet and III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) bands each performed twice during the festival, playing both traditional and contemporary music.

"It was pleasure to come out and play for such an enthusiastic crowd," said Lance Cpl. Jeshua Sosa, a percussionist in the III MEF Band.

For a few hours each day forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer JS Ise (DDH 182) were open to the public for guided tours. Each ship had more than 1,000 visitors.

"It's hard to believe how big these ships are," said Lisa Agowa, a tour participant on Germantown. "The tour helped me understand a little of what Sailors go through during all those days at sea."

Dragon boat racing has been a popular event in parts of Asia for thousands of years and has recently gained support all over the world. The White Beach Festival gave 14 11-person teams the chance to prove that they were the best in Okinawa.

"I think the dragon boat races were the biggest draw this year," said Weathers. "We haven't included dragon boat races in the White Beach Festival in 21 years and everyone was excited to have them back. This type of racing is very important to the people of Okinawa so this is a great way of encouraging them to come visit this part of their community."

Korean War Vets Honored on First ‘Valor Flight’

Don’t let their sacrifices be forgotten! See the Korean War books where the real Korean War veterans tell you their story.

By Amanda Burke

Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2011 – More than 100 Korean War veterans from Alabama traveled here on Veterans Day weekend to visit the Korean War Memorial in the first trip of its kind.

The nonprofit organization Valor Flight sponsored the trip to grant the veterans’ wishes to visit the memorial. This was the first trip that the organization has sponsored.

During the day of honor and remembrance, the veterans toured the Korean War Memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, the Iwo Jima Memorial and other famous sites.

At the Iwo Jima Memorial, Navy Cmdr. John O’Brien, member of the Department of Defense 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee, awarded each of the veterans with a certificate of appreciation signed by Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta in honor of their service during the Korean War.

“Your country has not forgotten your sacrifice. Your utter selflessness has made possible the freedom and prosperity we enjoy today,” O’Brien said.

The Valor Flight program is modeled on the Honor Flight program that takes World War II veterans on day-long trips to the nation's capital. Valor Flight President Steve Celuch hopes to conduct another trip next spring.

“For our Korean War veterans, the men and women who served, it is critical that their sacrifices are not forgotten. This flight is one small way for us to say ‘thank you’ for their enormous contribution,” Celuch said.

The organization, which is based in Madison, Ala., seeks to recognize Korean War veterans for their service to the nation.

Seattle Seahawks Salute Service Members

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lawrence Davis, Commander, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs

SEATTLE (NNS) -- The Seattle Seahawks honored Pacific Northwest active-duty, Reserve and retired service members during their annual Military Appreciation Day game against the Baltimore Ravens at Century Link Field in Seattle, Nov. 13.

During the pre-game, members from all branches participated in several festivities including a mass re-enlistment on the field and the singing of the National Anthem by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Angie Johnson with the Military Sea Hawkers Honor Guard presenting the colors.

The National Anthem concluded with a flyover by a C-17, courtesy of the 446th Airlift Wing (Air Force Reserve) from Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

One Army soldier had the opportunity to lead the Seahawks out of the tunnel hoisting the American flag to start the game.

"What a great tribute to our military members who serve and fight to protect our country," said Dean St. Myers, a spectator in attendance. "Each and every one of them has definitely earned my respect, and this is all well deserved."

The "12th Man" flag was raised by George Hickman, one of the six known living Tuskegee Airmen in Seattle.

"This was awesome," said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW) Jeff Smith, of Patrol Squadron One (VP-1). "It was my first time doing this, and it's an amazing experience to be out there receiving so much support from the community of Seattle."

Sailors who participated in presenting the American and Navy flags said they felt lucky to have this opportunity.

"It gives me a great sense of pride to be able to be a part of the armed forces and represent by hoisting the Navy's flag," said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Jordan Catherman, assigned to Marine Corps Security Forces Battalion (MCSFBN), Bangor. "Right after pre-game, I got a text from my uncle saying he saw me on TV, which was pretty awesome."

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (SW) Clarence Judd, MCSFBN, said the experience meant more to him than just honoring himself.

"It is a rewarding experience," said Judd. "But, I come from a long line of military relatives, so it's like my being here is not only for me but the other service members in my family as well."

The Seahawks Military Appreciation Day concluded with a 22-17 win over the Baltimore Ravens.

Awareness training for health care providers at Fort Bragg

Jennifer Pierce-Weeks, a registered nurse and a forensic nurse examiner with the International Association of Forensic Nurses and Memorial Health System in Colorado Springs, Colo., talks about the various health problems that occur from a history of intimate partner violence, during a training session for health care providers at Womack Army Medical Center, Oct. 11. Health care providers were provided an opportunity to more about their role in the health care of domestic violence victims.

FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- Health care providers at Womack Army Medical Center learned more about their role in the health care of intimate partner violence at Weaver Auditorium, Oct. 11.

“The Role of the Health Care Provider in Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence” was an in-depth overview of the medical necessity and liability for the providers.

“I was asked to speak in honor of Domestic Awareness Month, to try to engage the health care providers here in accessing for domestic violence and effectively intervening on behalf of their patients,” said Jennifer Pierce-Weeks, a registered nurse and a forensic nurse examiner with the International Association of Forensic Nurses and Memorial Health System in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The training covered topics including confidentiality issues, legal issues, intervention and management, documentation and different types of strangulation's that health care providers should look for.

Pierce-Weeks said the training was for health care providers. However, professionals of the community who come in contact with domestic violence victims were able to participate in the training.

During the training, Pierce-Weeks described how screening appropriately, helps health care providers make the connection between victimization, health problems and risk behaviors. To make screening easier for the health care providers, Pierce-Weeks mentioned a few helpful tips.

“Patients are more willing to have a conversation, rather than just asking,” she said. “You don’t want to just ask the bare minimum and assume that nothing is going on at home.”

She also suggested that health care providers should talk to the patients alone, and not while the patient’s spouse is in the same room.

“If you ask the patients in front of their significant other, it gives their partner an idea of what goes on and possibly rehearsed answers will be given at the next appointment,” said Pierce-Weeks.

The first portion of the training focused more on how to effectively screen for domestic violence by talking to the victims, the second part centered on strangulation and the signs, which aren’t commonly recognized.

“Strangulation's are more prevalent as a whole (in the country),” said Valerie McNeill, a Victims Witness Liaison with the XVIII Airborne Corps Judge Advocate General office. “We have several cases that deal with strangulation and some of the signs were shown during the presentation.”

“Only about half of strangulation victims have visible injuries,” said Pierce-Weeks. “You have to get close and really examine your patients. For example, if a patient is a sitting across from you, you will never see there are capillaries opened up underneath the eyelids or on the eyes.”

Ultimately, the training emphasized the importance of accurately accessing a patient for domestic violence and recognizing the red flags before something worse happens.

The training helped emphasize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and also honored 2nd Lt. Holley L. James-Wimunc, a registered nurse from Womack Army Medical Center, who died from intimate partner violence.

“Prevention is the key,” said Robin Span, a victim advocate coordinator at Army Community Services, at Fort Bragg, N.C. “We want people to know there is an array of services available both on post and off post to help prevent domestic violence.”

MAXIMUM WARRIOR CHALLENGE PRESENTS REAL BATTLEFIELD ATTACK SITUATION

IN THE MIDST OF AN IED AMBUSH – MAXIMUM WARRIOR CHALLENGE PRESENTS REAL BATTLEFIELD ATTACK SITUATION

CHALLENGE #7: IED AMBUSH


CHALLENGE #7 WINNER: LUKE D.

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 14, 2011) – Maximum Warrior is a one-of-a-kind competition that tests 20 contestants in 15 action-packed, adrenaline-filled challenges. Presented by MAXIM, in partnership with the Jeep® Brand, Maximum Warrior just released its seventh webisode: IED Ambush. In this challenge, each of the five remaining warriors started by manning an M-240 machine gun mounted in the back of a Jeep Wrangler. As an instructor took drove the Jeep Wrangler down the range, the Warrior had to engage enemy targets to the east of him until a simulated IED blasted right next to the vehicle. At that moment, the Warrior jumped into action to drag an injured “dummy” driver out of the car and into a safe zone. The Warrior then continued down the range on-foot, distinguishing threats from non- threats and eliminating enemy targets with either his rifle or GLOCK 17. The warrior lost points if he missed enemy targets and if he shot at non-threats. The warrior with the worst adjusted time was eliminated. The IED Ambush challenge was won by U.S. Air Force Pararescue Luke D. who made it through the length of the range in 2:50, 25 seconds faster than the second place competitor.

IED Ambush Challenge:
The IED Ambush challenge, along with all 14 other challenges in the 2011 Maximum Warrior series, was modeled after very real situations that U.S. armed service members can and do encounter on the battlefield. They may start out with one task at hand, such as in Challenge 7 with the M-240 machine gun mounted on the back of the Jeep Wrangler. Enemy forces, however, may have other plans and the soldiers, or the warriors in this case, must adapt to the rapidly changing scenario.

Check out Week 7’s IED Ambush challenge and all previous weeks’ Maximum Warrior Challenge videos, biographies and other action-packed material at www.MaximumWarrior.com.

Warrior Challenges (Weeks 1-10)
Week #1: Soldier Rescue Challenge
Week #2: Target Recognition Challenge
Week #3: Obstacle Course
Week #4: Jeep Wrangler Off-Road Maneuvers
Week #5: Wadi Patrol
Week #6: Combat Pistol Challenge
Week #7: IED Ambush
About Maximum Warrior
Maximum Warrior is a one-of-a-kind competition that tests 20 contestants in 15 action-packed, adrenaline-filled challenges. Presented by MAXIM, in partnership with the Jeep® Brand, Maximum Warrior is broken down into two separate programs – the authentic Maximum Warrior Competition that pits actual special ops operatives against one another; and the inaugural Maximum Warrior Pro-Am that pairs a special ops operative with a civilian contender to create a 10 team competition. The competition series was recently completed at the state-of-the-art T1G training facility in Crawfordsville, Ark.

About Alpha Media Group
Alpha Media Group Inc. is a multimedia company and publisher of the Maxim brand and magazine, the largest young men's lifestyle magazine in America reaching nearly 12 million readers each month. Maxim Digital encompasses Maxim.com and reaches more than 3 million unique visitors each month. MAXIM magazine is published in 24 countries and distributed in 52 territories worldwide. Maxim Ventures, the integrated media and marketing division, develops 360-degree integrated marketing programs designed to interact with men at every significant engagement channel: mobile, digital, social, large-scale events, retail promotion, experiential, database, TV and film.

About Jeep
Built on 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence. The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all six Jeep models are sold outside North America - and all are available in right-hand drive versions and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.

For media inquiries, please contact Ciara Green, DRIVEN Public Relations, at ciara@drivenpublicrelations.com or 951-719-1040.

Retired Marine Makes Historic Swim Across Mississippi River

Friars Point, MS - November 14, 2011 -- Jay Platt (www.JayPlatt.com), a retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant, today swam 1.88 miles across the Mississippi River in handcuffs and shackles, while blindfolded, becoming the only person to have ever done so. He did it to raise money and awareness for injured and wounded service personnel.

"I was looking for something challenging to do as a way of raising awareness to help the warriors who are coming back wounded from the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Platt, who was medically retired from the Marines due to complications from cancer. “Having lost an eye myself, I somewhat know how they feel, and I wanted to do something to help.

Platt, who is one of three men to have swam from Alcatraz to San Francisco with his hands and feet bound (www.EscapeFromAlcatraz.com) did the swim as a way of showing that anything is possible. “This seemed like the perfect way to show others that they too can overcome great challenges in their lives, even though the obstacles they face may seem overwhelming.”

Jay Platt enlisted in the Marine Corps at age 17. During his career, he trained recruits as a Drill Instructor, led Marines as a Platoon Sergeant, taught survival skills as a Marine Combat Instructor of Water Survival, and developed Marine leaders as a Marine Corps University Instructor and Advisor. In 1998, after a 15 year career, Jay retired due to complications from cancer. Since his retirement, through his speaking, writing, coaching, and adventure workshops, he has made it his life’s mission to work with others to help them break through their self-imposed barriers and to fully maximize their potential. Jay is the author of: “A Time to Walk: Life Lessons Learned on the Appalachian Trail,” and "No Matter What! How To Be Unstoppable, Despite The Obstacles, Starting Today."

For more information please visit: http://www.swimforthewarriors.com/.

Media Contact:
Jay Platt
Jay Platt & Associates
843-473-8254
Jay@jayplatt.com