Transition Benefits: FFSC ERB Seminar Available to San Diego Sailors

From Fleet and Family Support Center San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) San Diego offers a series of two-day seminars for Sailors and their families affected by the Enlisted Retention Board (ERB) with the next scheduled for Jan. 17-18 at Naval Base Coronado.

The seminar is entitled "ERB...What Next? Seminar for Sailors and Spouses" and additional sessions are planned on a monthly basis through June.

"Our Sailors have amazing leadership skills, and they've already started to make their own transition plans. We're just here to help ensure they are connected with all the resources that can help them meet their goals and the correct information on the benefits associated with their transition," said Mary Kirby, FFSC San Diego director.

The first seminar was held Dec. 19 and 20 at Naval Base San Diego and 59 Sailors and spouses affected by the ERB were in attendance. Attendees received information about assistance and resources to help in the transition to the civilian workforce, managing stress, financial planning, and understanding transition benefits.

The seminar, also open to Sailors and spouses affected by Perform to Serve, consists of ten interactive modules addressing every aspect of the ERB transition process. In partnership with FFSC, representatives from Navy College, command career counselors, Veterans Affairs, TRICARE, Personal Property, Personnel Support Detachment, Human Resources Service Center, REBOOT, Navy Credentialing Opportunities On-Line, Employment Development Department, and other organizations attend to answer questions and provide the latest information on career services, networking, financial empowerment, transition benefits, stress management, and relocation information.

At the conclusion of the seminar's first day, there is an evening resource fair with schools, employers, Reserve recruiters, placement agency representatives, and resource organizations connecting with separating Sailors and their spouses to provide brochures and individual consultations.

"FFSC will post information from each learning module online for downloading, as well as mailing material to deployed commands," said Kirby, FFSC San Diego. "FFSC San Diego has planned seminars each month through at least June of 2012 and similar learning opportunities will be offered to those affected throughout Navy Region Southwest in conjunction with their local FFSCs."

In addition to the ERB Seminar, a Shipmates to Workmates (S2W) Job Fair is being offered in San Diego Feb. 9. Attendees can meet with representative from commands including Commander, Naval Installations Command, Naval Air Systems, Naval Facilities Engineering Commad, Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Supply Systems Command, Office of Civilian Human Resources, and Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command to receive information about career opportunities and receive assistance with applications and resumes for open positions. S2W is a Navy-wide initiative consisting of a traveling road show and individualized support to help Sailors locate civilian employment options within the Department of the Navy, as well as assistance in easing their transition.

For more information, visit http://jobs.navair.navy.mil/SM2WM.

FFSC San Diego also added additional dates to the Transition Assistance Program classes for Sailors separating under ERB that cannot attend the regularly scheduled sessions or prefer to attend with other ERB Sailors.

"The content for Transition Assistance Program classes for ERB/PTS separating Sailors is not different than that of regular TAP classes, however students in these sessions can network with others being separated for the same reasons," Kirby said.

FFSC San Diego offers implemented walk-in services each week for easy access to counseling for those affected by the stress of an ERB transition. All of these services are available to Sailors affected by Perform to Serve as well.

"These initiatives augment the traditional FFSC services available to all transitioning service members and their families," said Kirby. "They include individualized consultations and workshops on finding federal and civilian employment, interview techniques, resume writing, and other career and financial readiness programs. We are here to be partners in transition for Sailors and families."

For more information about ERB transition support, check out the NPC ERB transition support page at www.npc.navy.mil/boards/ERB/, contact the NPC customer service center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672), or email cscmailbox@navy.mil.

For more information about support services offered by FFSC San Diego, visit http://www.cnic.navy.mil/SanDiego/FleetAndFamilyReadiness/SupportServices/index.htm.

Defenders share gifts, bring holiday cheer to orphans

by Staff Sgt. Mark Bush

8th Security Forces Squadron

 12/28/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- During this holiday season Defenders of the 8th Security Forces Squadron defend the base, but they also take the time spread Christmas cheer to the Samsung Orphanage.

Since 1970, the 8th SFS has had a long standing 'legacy' project with sponsoring the Samsung Orphanage's Angel Tree. The orphanage is located approximately 10 miles from Kunsan Air Base and houses more than 55 children ranging from age 4 to 18.

This year, the defenders took their legacy project up a notch by providing each child with three presents.

"It was truly an eye opening experience," said Airman 1st Class Adam Errahebi, an 8th SFS volunteer. "I was honored to have the opportunity to have a hand in something like this. It was especially gratifying to see all the SF members pull together and make this Christmas a special one for the kids, it made my holiday season."

The Christmas celebration began with a meal sponsored by the Kunsan Commissary, Army and Air Force Exchange Services and Staff Sgt. Kevin Arndt, 8th SFS alpha flight chief.

After the meal, the children sang and danced to a variety of Korean and American Christmas songs.

"The kids displayed their appreciation with a performance," said Tech. Sgt. Jimmy Tran, 8th SFS volunteer. "We did not expect this from these kids. We all had the opportunity to put a smile on a child's face and show the Air Force's ability to give back to the community."

8th SFS Airmen enjoyed the opportunity to be family to others during the holiday season while being away from their own.

Kunsan reflects on past, ready for future -- A look at 2011

by Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton

8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/28/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The year 2011 brought about much change and progress for the Wolf Pack.

 Most notably, in May and throughout the spring, a new wing leadership team took the helm after the previous command lead the wing to an "Excellent" overall rating during the year's operational readiness inspection.

This set the Wolf Pack up for success after several more quarterly and peninsula-wide operational readiness exercises in preparation for the 2012 dual-ORI and unit compliance inspection that will be known as a combined unit inspection.

Other notable achievements include updating and upgrading the bowling alley, constructing a new running track, completing new maintenance facilities, being host to numerous distinguished visitors and music artists, the demolition of more than two condemned dormitories, beating out rival Osan Air Base at the annual sports day and accomplishing many wing warrior runs in the hunt for physical fitness.

 Keeping in step with long-standing Wolf Pack traditions, Kunsan also performed above the mark by hosting several joint and bilateral training exercises, pausing and reflecting on the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, supporting both operations Tomodachi in Japan and Pacific Angel in Cambodia, cycling more than 100 miles for cancer awareness, completing two Marine combat fitness tests, successfully hosting more than 100,000 Korean nationals for the biennial air show and spreading Christmas cheer to orphans and the elderly of Gunsan City.

 In May, at his assumption of command, Col. Scott Pleus, 8th Fighter Wing commander, had this to say as he began his tenure as Kunsan's "Wolf":

"What we do at Kunsan is very important," Pleus said. "I wholeheartedly believe Kunsan is the best assignment you can get in our Air Force and I can't wait to get started!"

The then new commander explained how the Wolf Pack was to accomplish all the milestones it had in its path and how these accomplishments would prepare Kunsan for whatever 2012 and beyond has in store.

"We'll do this by focusing on professionalism, caring for our great Airmen, being the best stewards of our resources and planning for the future."

Emergency mass notification system to be implemented at AMC bases

by Air Mobility Command Emergency Management

 12/29/2011 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill.  -- In September of this year, Headquarters Air Mobility Command awarded a contract to Reliable Government Solutions to provide AtHoc Installation Warning System Alerts (AtHoc IWSAlerts™) to eight AMC installations.

This system procurement in part is in response to mitigating events such as the Fort Hood, Texas, incident, but will be key to notifying installation personnel during all types of emergencies.

AtHoc IWSAlerts™ is a network-centric emergency mass notification system (EMNS) which also provides an aspect of personnel accountability. The personnel accountability is a report consisting of who was notified, when and if they acknowledged.

The system is capable of notifying personnel within minutes of an emergency from a single, centralized, Web-based instance. Types of notifications range from force protection condition changes, anti-terror warnings or natural disaster alerts for approaching tornadoes, hurricanes or other emergency situations.

 Command posts at each base will be the lead in operating the system with emergency managers also being key players in the process. The AMC command center will also have the ability to make command-wide notifications. As the primary owners of the systems at the bases, command posts will push alerts upon direction of the wing commander or their representative. A forthcoming HQ AMC EMNS concept of operations will outline operational details and provide guidance on how installations are to use the system. Installation commanders will be the final approval authority for local implementation and use.

The client installation phase should be transparent to the user. Once complete, it is easy for an end user (alert recipient) to know when communication is in place from their desktop, as indicated by the small purple globe in the system tray indicating connectivity. When there is no communication or a connectivity issue occurs, a grey globe with a red "X" appears in the system tray.

End user responsibilities are simple: keep your contact information current and respond to alerts in a timely manner by following the provided instructions. You can update your contact information by using the AtHoc IWSAlerts™ self service module; just right click on the purple globe and select "Access Self Service" and update accordingly. An alert will have a specific set of instructions to respond to. Ensure you read the entire alert and/or listen to the entire message then respond accordingly. An important note to remember is this system will notify many people in a short period of time and provides robust notification capabilities, but we still need personnel to remember their wingman responsibilities to ensure the 100 percent solution.

 The contract provides eight installations with a rapid means to notify the base populace using computer pop-ups, e-mail, telephony (hard line and cellular) and text messaging. The eight bases receiving AtHoc IWSAlerts™ with this contract include Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Dover Air Force Base, Del., Scott AFB, Ill., Fairchild AFB, Wash., Grand Forks AFB, N.D., Little Rock AFB, Ark., McConnell AFB, Kan., and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. This purchase will align these installations with the other AMC bases and improve our notification in a more standard fashion.

National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of December 27, 2011

This week the Air Force and Coast Guard announced an increase in activated reservists, while the Army, Navy and Marine Corps announced a decrease. The net collective result is 216 fewer reservists activated than last week.

 At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease.  The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 66,935; Navy Reserve, 4,421; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 10,180; Marine Corps Reserve, 5,220, and the Coast Guard Reserve, 769.  This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 87,525, including both units and individual augmentees.

A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found on line at http://www.defense.gov/news/d20111227ngr.pdf

Toledo Edges Air Force in 42-41 Game

By John Van Winkle

Air Force Academy Public Affairs

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29, 2011 – A failed two-point conversion gave the Toledo Rockets a 42-41 win over Air Force in the 2011 Military Bowl at the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium here yesterday. The game was an expected offensive shootout featuring two teams that scored a combined 920 points this season. The two teams gave just that to a national TV audience, with 35 points scored in the first half, and going into the halftime tied up at 28-all.

This shootout featured 746 yards of offense and boiled down to a 42-35 deficit for Air Force with just under five minutes left and 78 yards to go to tie the game.

Four-year starting quarterback Tim Jefferson led the Falcons the length of the field in 11 plays featuring eight passes and only three rushes, before putting six more points on the scoreboard with a 33-yard pass to Zach Kauth.

Then the Falcons lined up for an extra point with punter David Baska holding and Parker Herrington set to kick.

But the play called wasn't a kick.

Extensive film study of the Toledo Rockets had shown Air Force coaches that the Rockets tended to overload the right side when facing an opponent's extra point and field goal attempts, said Falcons head football coach Troy Calhoun.

"We thought we'd get an overload on the right this time too," the coach said. "We thought we were better off going for two. When we're getting four, five or six yards per play like we normally do, then going for the tie and taking it to overtime could work.”

But in the second half, the Toledo defense had held the Falcons to only two scores, so the Falcons coaches decided they were better off going for the win than prolonging the game into a sudden death overtime, he added. 

"We called an option left, with an inside player blocking down and thought we'd have the punter run it, and he'd be able to pitch out to the kicker if needed," Calhoun explained.

But the pitch was fumbled and bounced unclaimed out the left side of the end zone. The Toledo bench erupted in cheers, but the game wasn't over yet. The clock still had 52 seconds left in regulation. 

Air Force lined up for an onside kick, with two kickers in the middle to disguise which way the onside kick was destined to go. The kick was recovered by Toledo, which ran out the clock to secure the team’s 42-41 win. 

The Air Force Academy Falcons end their 2011 season with a 7-6 record, but there's still a few more chapters before the 2011 Fighting Falcons story comes to a close. The graduating seniors have a return visit to the nation's capital next year, when they will visit the White House to receive the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy from the president for beating the other service academies in football. Then the seniors will have another important date on their calendars to look forward to: their May 23 graduation.

"For them, it's all about graduation now," Calhoun said. It's all about them becoming second lieutenants and how they will lead and influence others throughout the rest of their lives."

Northern Region Treatment System Begins Construction at Camp Pendleton

By Mario Icari, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest Public Affairs

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest and members of the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton community held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Northern Region Tertiary Treatment Plant Dec. 15 at Camp Pendleton.

"The groundbreaking signifies a culmination of almost eight years of Marine Corps planning to upgrade their existing waste water treatment systems," said Joe Riojas, NAVFAC Southwest supervisory general engineer at ROICC Camp Pendleton. "Commencement of construction for the new treatment facility will bring to the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton added capacity, flexibility -- and reflects positively on their commitment to the environment."

NAVFAC Southwest awarded CDM/FILANC (a joint venture) the $121.3 million design-build contract Sept. 28, 2010, to construct the treatment plant. The plant will be capable of treating up to five million gallons of waste water per day. Included in the contract is the conversion of an existing sewer treatment plant, up to six miles of new waste water conveyance and a solar farm with a design capacity to generate up to 5.3 megawatts of power. Additionally, though waste water plants are normally not LEED certifiable, the control building for the facility will be designed to meet LEED Silver standards.

The project is expected to be completed in December 2013.

Dietary supplements removed from Exchanges due to health concerns

12/28/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The Department of Defense has implemented a temporary moratorium on the sales of products containing DMAA within military facilities.  

The moratorium will remain in effect pending further review of relevant scientific evidence and reported events, officials said.

Recent reports show that two Soldier deaths and additional adverse health effects in other service members may be related to the use of dietary supplements containing DMAA, which is also known as dimethylamylamine.

"We support the decision of the Military Exchanges and Commissaries to remove products containing DMAA from their shelves until we can make a further determination about the safety of this ingredient," said Dr. Michael Kilpatrick, the deputy director of Force Health Protection and Readiness Programs with the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Force Health Protection and Readiness.

DMAA is sold as a single supplement and in combination with multiple other ingredients. In particular, it is often combined with caffeine, a legal, natural stimulant. Stimulants may accelerate metabolism, heart rate and blood pressure, which may increase the body's production of heat, especially in hot and humid conditions.

"We are concerned about reports of heat illness, kidney (and) liver damage, and sudden death in service members who reportedly used products containing DMAA," Kilpatrick said.  

The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs Jonathan Woodson asked the surgeons general of the military services to conduct a review of available scientific evidence and adverse event reports to better understand any potential relationship between DMAA and these events. Recommendations from this review will guide further decisions, officials said.

"We take the health of our service members and families very seriously, and believe this action is necessary as a precautionary measure until we can learn more," said Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho, the Army surgeon general.

Top 10 Military Family Moments of 2011

By Elaine Sanchez

 Dec. 28, 2011

 Family Matters Blog

It’s that time of year when top 10 lists seem to proliferate across nearly every web and news page in the nation, proclaiming everything from the best movies and TV shows to the most memorable photos and celebrities of the year.

Since I find it tough to encapsulate a year’s worth of information into a tidy list, I typically steer away from the concept. However, this was such a momentous year for military families that I decided it was time to hop on the list-making bandwagon.

So, here’s my top 10 most memorable military family moments of 2011. It’s certainly not all-inclusive, but I’m hoping it at least hits the highlights.

10. JR Martinez – Warrior Inspiration. This Army veteran and wounded warrior danced his way to the top spot on ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” — and inspired a nation with his strength and resilience along the way. In 2003, Martinez was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq, suffering severe burns to more than 40 percent of his body. He went on to share his story with audiences nationwide. In 2008, he landed a role as an Iraq war veteran on the ABC soap opera, “All My Children,” which led to his “Dancing with the Stars” appearances this year.

“I have been able to be a role model and a voice for a lot of [troops] who don’t feel that they have a voice for themselves,” Martinez said during a Pentagon Channel interview. “I’ve been able to be a source of inspiration to the families as well, to say good things do happen and you’ve just got to be patient and have a great attitude.”

Martinez recently scored another big win: he and his girlfriend, Diana Gonzalez-Jones, are expecting their first child, a girl, in the spring.

9. The Office of Servicemember Affairs opened for business. As the military arm of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, this office is intended to strengthen military families financially and to serve as an advocate on their behalf. The office has a threefold mission: to ensure families are given a quality financial education, to monitor consumer complaints and the response to those complaints, and to work with other federal and state agencies to help resolve issues.

In an interview this summer, Holly Petraeus, the office’s assistant director, told me she’s thrilled to be in a position to help service members and their families.

“My ultimate dream is that no service member signs a contract that they end up regretting for years or signing one that isn’t fair,” she said. “We can write rules and enforce at CFPB, and I’d love to see the real bad actors that go after service members — break the law to harm them financially — I’d like to see them enforced against.”

8. Sesame unveiled “Military Families Near and Far.” These products, which include a bilingual website and mobile application, encourage elementary school-aged children to express their emotions and to communicate as they undergo challenging military transitions. The resources are a team effort by Sesame Street and The Electric Company, and are provided in cooperation with the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Sesame’s previous efforts to help military children have been aimed at preschoolers. These new products will enable them to reach older children in an entertaining way, H. Melvin Ming, Sesame Workshop president and CEO, told me during the launch event in November. “One size does not fit all,” he noted. “Children learn best when the message is age-appropriate.”

7. Technology boosts support. This year, we’ve seen the Defense Department and other organizations launch a host of technology-based tools aimed at helping troops, veterans and their families. For example, DcOE’s National Center for Telehealth and Technology developed mobile apps that help users cope with psychological concerns, and aid providers in diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder and TBI. One example is Life Armor, a mobile app that serves as a resource for families experiencing common post-deployment issues. Find out more about these helpful apps here.

Additionally, TRICARE and Express Scripts Inc. launched a TRICARE Express RX mobile app and mobile-optimized website in July. These tools allow TRICARE beneficiaries to manage their prescriptions and access important health information safely and securely from anywhere using their smart phone.

These are just a few examples of the leaps in technology-based military support this year. From smart phone apps to virtual counseling and support, I’ll be excited to see what sprouts up this year and in the years ahead.

6. Veteran employment initiatives. In November, President Barack Obama announced executive orders to give tax credits to employers who hire post-9/11 veterans and wounded warriors, as well as enhanced career counseling and related services for veterans.

As reported by my colleague Donna Miles, the president announced a new Returning Heroes Tax Credit that will provide companies up to $5,600 in credits for each unemployed veteran they hire. Similarly, a new Wounded Warriors Tax Credit offers employers up to $9,600 for each veteran with service-connected disabilities they hire.

The president also unveiled two new Internet-based job search tools for unemployed veterans: My Next Move for Veterans, where veterans can browse career options and translate their military experience to a civilian application, and the Veterans Job Bank, where veterans can seek jobs posted by companies committed to hiring them.

5. The Job Fair Movement. Also aimed at employment, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce sponsored about 75 veteran and spouse hiring fairs around the country, with a goal of hosting 100 hiring fairs within a year. And the chamber has committed to hosting 300-400 additional hiring fairs for veterans and military spouses around the country in 2012, Navy Capt. Bradley Cooper, executive director of the Joining Forces campaign, told me in an interview last month.

In mid-January, the chamber will host its first military-spouse-only hiring fair and career forum, looking to bring together more than 100 employers and more than 1,000 spouses.

There’s also been an emergence of virtual hiring fairs, which is an asset to people unable to attend a hiring fair due to distance or who want to see what’s available in other locations. Milicruit hosted a virtual fair recently that included more than 24,000 jobs from nearly 70 employers with more than 30,000 veterans and spouses engaged in the process.

4. Military Spouse Employment Partnership. This DOD program is aimed at expanding career opportunities for military spouses worldwide, and to recognize the skills and talents they bring to the employment table. The program’s website lists more than 70,000 jobs for military spouses.

Since its launch in June, the partnership has grown from 72 companies to 96, and has led to the hiring of more than 8,000 military spouses.

3. Strengthening Our Military Families. In January, President Barack Obama unveiled a governmentwide plan to strengthen military family support. The plan was based on a yearlong review summarized in the report “Strengthening our Military Families: Meeting America’s Commitment.”

The report outlines four key areas which the whole-of-government effort plans to address: enhancing military families’ well-being and psychological health; developing military spouse career and education opportunities; increasing child care availability and quality; and ensuring excellence in military children’s education and development.

In total, Obama said, his administration is making nearly 50 specific commitments to military families. But the government can’t accomplish this mission alone.

“Government has its responsibilities,” he said. “One percent of Americans may be fighting our wars, but a hundred percent of Americans need to be supporting our troops and their families — a hundred percent.”

2. The Joining Forces campaign. First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, announced this landmark military-support initiative in April. Joining Forces aims to raise awareness of military families and spark all Americans — from citizens and communities, to businesses and nonprofit groups -– to take action to ensure troops and their families have the support they need and deserve. The initiative focuses on three areas: employment, education and wellness.

“This campaign is about all of us, all of us joining together as Americans to give back to the extraordinary military families who serve and sacrifice so much every day so we can live in freedom and security,” the first lady said at the White House’s campaign launch.

The campaign has made tremendous inroads in tackling veteran and spouse employment in recent months, Cooper said. In about three months, the campaign went from teaming with 100 companies to more than 1,500, and from 1,500 people hired to nearly 20,000. These companies aim to hire upward of 135,000 veterans and spouses over the next couple of years, he added.

1. Iraq War Ends. After nearly nine years, the war in Iraq ended, and the final group of U.S. troops returned home Dec. 20 — just in time for the holidays.

The nation owes a debt to all service members and their families, President Barack Obama said Dec. 15.

“This moment of success is because of their sacrifice,” he said. “More than 1.5 million Americans have served in Iraq. More than 30,000 of these brave men and women were wounded. Nearly 4,500 gave their lives. America’s military families have borne a heavy burden.

“As we mark the end of this war, we need to show our veterans and their families that they have the thanks of a grateful nation,” he added. “Part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who have fought it. It’s not enough to honor our heroes with words; we must do so with deeds.”

That’s my top 10, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t add a shout out to military families worldwide. In this past year, some families endured the terrible pain of losing a military loved one to combat or illness. Others sat by a bedside day and night, praying for the speedy recovery of their child or spouse who returned home with the visible or invisible wounds of war. And still others held down home fronts, bolstering their children through deployments and long separations.

As in every year of this past decade of war, these families have weathered 2011 with amazing resilience and strength.

I’d like to join the rest of the nation in saying thank you for your service and your sacrifice.

Airmen benefit from 10 years of good will

by Senior Airman Benjamin Sutton
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/28/2011 - NAMPA, Idaho -- Members of the 366th Fighter Wing, local community leaders and officials celebrated the 10th anniversary of working together with residents from Silvercrest Estates II in Nampa, Idaho, who donated more than $15,000 as well as approximately 1,000 pounds of food, clothes, toys and 300 blankets to Mountain Home Air Force Base families through Operation Warmheart this year alone.

"Silvercrest does a fantastic job of supporting our Gunfighters through Operation Warmheart," said U.S. Air Force Col. Ron Buckley, 366th FW commander.

After the horrific events of 9/11, the small senior community made the decision to assist service members any way they could.

"After we were attacked on 9/11 we formed a committee to decide what we could do to help military personnel," said Rita Albers, who, with her husband, Bud, has managed the community's Operation Warmheart fundraising events for the last 10 years. "We contacted Mountain Home Air Force Base because they were the closest active-duty unit to us and told them we wanted to help."

Community residents contributed so much, the 366th FW first sergeants filled an entire 16-foot trailer with the donations.

"The community's donations are very critical to our success," said Master Sgt. Mikel Caraway, 366th Maintenance Operations Squadron first sergeant and Operation Warmheart president. "We have been working with them since 2001. Last year they donated close to $20,000 and at least $11,000 this year. We could not do what we do without their ongoing support."

The donations and supplies are dispersed to military families who may be dealing with financial hardship.

"These types of generous donations also help us fund close to 300 holiday meals at Thanksgiving and Christmas," Caraway said.

Fundraising groups like Silvercrest II and other corporate sponsors are vital to the continued success of Operation Warmheart.

"We just try to give as much as possible and meet the needs of the military personnel," Albers said.

This Day in Naval History - Dec. 28

1867 - U.S. claims Midway Island, first territory annexed outside Continental limits.
1905 - Drydock Dewey left Solomon's Island, MD, enroute through the Suez Canal to the Philippines to serve as repair base. This, the longest towing job ever accomplished, was completed by Brutus, Caesar, and Glacier on 10 July 1906.
1941 - Chief of Bureau of Yards and Docks requests that construction battalions be recruited.
1982 - Recommissioning of USS New Jersey (BB-62), the first of four Iowa-class battleships that were returned to service in 1980s.
1990 - LCDR Darlene M. Iskra becomes commander of USS Opportune, a salvage vessel.
1998 - USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and USS America (CV-66) Carrier Battle Groups deploy from Norfolk, VA, for Middle East to join Operation Desert Shield.

Makin Island ARG Underway Following Singapore Port Visit

From Amphibious Squadron 5 Public Affairs

USS MAKIN ISLAND, At Sea (NNS) -- The three ships that make up the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) got underway once again Dec. 27, following a Christmas holiday port visit to Singapore.

The Makin Island ARG is comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), which serves as the command ship for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5 and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), as well as the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52).

Makin Island arrived in Singapore Dec. 21. New Orleans and Pearl Harbor arrived Dec. 23.

While in the "Lion City," Sailors and Marines from the Makin Island ARG had an opportunity to observe the local culture, take part in a variety of Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tours, and use the time in port to make telephone calls to friends and family for Christmas.

Most Sailors and Marines on liberty celebrated their holiday in Singapore with shopping, seeing movies, dining at local restaurants and sightseeing.

Sailors and Marines also took part in community service projects around Singapore during the port visit. Many of these projects involved bringing Christmas gifts to needy children in the area.

"Most of the community service projects I've done involve a lot of maintenance and upkeep," said Chief Warrant Officer Marc Lefebvre, a Makin Island Sailor who dressed as Santa Claus and handed out presents at a local children's center. "The unique thing about this one was that you got to see the reaction of what it meant to the people you were helping, and I think the kids really enjoyed it."

Capt. Humberto L. Quintanilla II, PHIBRON 5 commander, said that Singapore remains one of the great port calls for Sailors and Marines, and being there for the Christmas holidays made the visit exceptionally memorable.

"Singapore is still the crossroads of international maritime trade," said Quintanilla. "The unique blend of Asian cultures and business interests from around the world always makes it a very engaging port visit for young Sailors and Marines. This is the city-state they vaunt to family and friends as being a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

The Makin Island ARG deployed Nov. 14 in support of the nation's maritime strategy and has been conducting theater security cooperation missions in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR).

The mission of the Makin Island ARG is to help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the seas and provide humanitarian/disaster response as well as supporting the Navy's maritime strategy when forward deployed.

The 7th Fleet AOR includes more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans, stretching from the international date line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

More than half of the world's population lives within the 7th Fleet AOR. In addition, more than 80 percent of that population lives within 500 miles of the oceans, which means this is an inherently maritime region.

Flag Officer Announcement

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta announced today that the President has made the following nomination:

Navy Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III has been nominated for reappointment to the rank of admiral and for assignment as commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Honolulu, Hawaii.  Locklear is currently serving as commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Europe/commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, and commander, Allied Joint Forces Command, Naples, Italy.

USS New Mexico Crew Extends Birthday Wishes to New Mexico to Celebrate Centennial

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

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The entire crew of the Virginia-class submarine USS New Mexico (SSN 779) extended their birthday wishes on video, Dec. 27, to the state of New Mexico to celebrate their centennial - 100 years of statehood. 

The state of New Mexico will officially celebrate its statehood centennial Jan. 6, 2012. 

"What an honor it is for me personally, and for my crew to pay our respects to our namesake state," said Cmdr. George Perez, Jr., commanding officer of New Mexico since October 2010. "It's not often in one's Navy career, while in command, that you can help a state celebrate their centennial."

Perez and the New Mexico Committee came up with the idea for the video greeting as a way to recognize the strong ties the committee and the state has with its Virginia-class submarine.

"The committee has a strong history of assisting the crew in a variety of ways from sending holiday lights to decorate our submarine to creating a home environment using Southwest style bunk and passageway curtains," said Perez.

 The birthday wish video will also be used by Dick Brown, chairman, USS New Mexico Committee, as a way to commemorate the state's proud history and heritage.

"Within our committee, ideas for supporting USS New Mexico continue to surface," said Brown. "We just sent 1,800 red and green Chile pepper Christmas lights for the crew to make their submarine stand out on the waterfront during this holiday season."

 Brown added that while the submarine isn't able to journey up the Rio Grande for port calls during their Centennial celebration, they will plan to utilize the video to show the strong bond between the submarine and the committee.

"We plan to distribute the birthday wish video to TV stations statewide, which illustrates the strong relationship between our undersea warriors and the citizens of New Mexico," said Brown.

There are currently 127 officers and enlisted Sailors assigned to New Mexico. The ship is named in recognition of the people of the "Land of Enchantment." The battleship New Mexico (BB 40), in commission from 1918 to 1946 and the only other ship named after the 47th state, earned six battle stars for World War II service, which included providing shore bombardment support for landings in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, Guam, Tinian, Saipan, the Philippines, and Okinawa. BB 40 acted as the flagship for the Pacific Fleet during the 1920s. She was present at the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay.

CSAF thanks Wolf Pack for commitment to service during holidays

by Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/28/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- (AFNS) -- Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz visited the Wolf Pack here Dec. 23-26 to meet with wing leaders, Airmen and Soldiers during the holiday season.

The general's base visit came after a stop in Seoul, where he met with senior Republic of Korea and U.S. military leaders.

"The American servicemembers serving here in South Korea are doing an outstanding job," Schwartz said. "They truly are representative of the United States' commitment to stability on the Korean peninsula, and to the freedom and security of our allies."

During his trip to Kunsan, Schwartz met with Airmen and Soldiers during workcenter visits around the base, and had candid discussions with many during a breakfast with first sergeants, and two separate lunches with Wolf Pack officers and first-term Airmen.

"The austere fiscal environment our country faces means we're going to face some challenges," Schwartz said, addressing the future state of the Air Force amid budget reductions. "The Air Force will have to make some serious choices because of this, but we are committed to preserving our readiness so that we remain a highly capable force."

Schwartz was also able to spread some holiday cheer at Kunsan, visiting Airmen processing the many care packages and cards at the Post Office, and by attending various unit holiday parties.

"It can be difficult to be away from family during the holidays, so I wanted to personally thank those serving here so far away from home," Schwartz said. "Our nation appreciates what our Airmen are doing at Kunsan and all around the world, and their important role in maintaining the peace."

On Dec. 25, Schwartz visited the many Airmen on duty at Kunsan, to include those guarding the base gates, managing airfield operations and maintaining the 8th Fighter Wing's F-16 Fighting Falcons. He also helped serve a special holiday dinner at the O'Malley Dining Facility.

"The high operations tempo can make Kunsan a tough place to serve, but the famous Wolf Pack esprit de corps is everywhere you look," Schwartz said. "I've been really impressed by the professionalism of the entire team."

Such dedication to the mission can be seen in the base's recent operational readiness inspection "Excellent" rating, Schwartz said.

"Kunsan Air Base is a shining example of the U.S. military's commitment to excellence," Schwartz said. "We're proud to serve alongside our South Korean allies, and I couldn't be more proud of those serving here today."

Those who serve supporting those who served...

Veterans at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital were honored to have a visit on Thanksgiving from the Commanding General of the Natick Soldier Systems Center, Brigadier General John McGuiness, a combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, and his wife Gail.

The general and his wife came to share in Chapel Services with Veterans and spent time visiting with Veteran patients on the wards. The Veterans were all to happy to share their stories and give offers of thanks to BG McGuiness and his wife for their visit. I repeatedly heard BG McGuiness and his wife offer, “we’re here to thank you”.

As the visit neared the end, BG McGuiness and his wife walked through the halls stopping to chat with Veterans and their loved ones. It was clear there would never be enough time for our guests to enjoy the Veterans.

The Natick Soldier Systems Center is the only active duty Army installation in New England and its mission is to unburden, empower and protect the Soldier. Everything from the boots on the Soldiers feet, to the Meals Ready to Eat that they consume to the airdropped supplies that they receive is researched and developed on the 78 acre campus in Natick.

McGuiness, who most recently served as the Deputy Commander for Programs, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, previously served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and is a 1983 graduate of the United States Military Academy. He also earned a Master of Science degree in Systems Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, a Master of Science degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, and a graduate of the Program of Management Development at the Harvard Business School.

Since taking command of the Natick Soldier Systems Center in May, 2011, the general and his wife have reached out on many occasions to thank Veterans and organizations that support Soldiers and Veterans.

The Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital is honored to provide assistance to those who served our country. We provide diverse services and provide excellence in our care for Veterans. Learn more about the services available at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital by visiting our website at: http://www.bedford.va.gov/

Deployed Sisters Reunite in Afghanistan

By Army Spc. Eric-James Estrada
4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division Public Affairs

KHOST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Dec. 28, 2011 – What started as a simple journey for Army 2nd Lt. Tess White turned into a race against time to see her sister, Army Sgt. Tobey White, before her tour of duty ended in Afghanistan.

Army 2nd Lt. Tess White, left, and Army Sgt. Tobey White unwrap presents on Christmas Day on Forward Operating Base Salerno in Afghanistan.

Tess’ journey began Dec. 9, when she left Fort Richardson, Alaska, and traveled around the world, all the while worried she would miss her sister, who was nearing the end of her deployment. Her worries were unfounded as she arrived at Forward Operating Base Salerno on Dec. 21 and reunited with her sister.

The sisters, Columbus, Ohio, natives, have a rich family military history. Both parents are former Marines, and a member of their family has fought in every war since the Civil War.

Now, the two sisters claim their own place in the family legacy as the first two females to deploy in support of a war. Their mother, Hollie Andrews, was the family’s first female to join the military.

Tess, officer in charge for the joint visitor bureau, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Task Force Spartan, said she and her sister are competitive with each other, and joining the military was no different.

Both sisters competed to be the first commissioned officer. When Tobey, a public affairs specialist for HHC, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Task Force Duke, first entered Officer Candidate School, Tess was still in college going through ROTC and was thrilled for her sister, until she realized one important aspect.

“Tobey’s going to commission before me and outrank me,” Tess said.
Tess added that her sister has yet to salute her.
“I’ve saluted you,” Tobey said with a lighthearted stare. “Remember after you received your commission?”
Tobey joined the enlisted side after an injury prevented her from completing Officer Candidate School. After her injury, Tobey was faced with a decision: leave the Army or find another path to pursue. She spoke with her father, who gave her blunt advice.

“We’re not quitters. Do want you want to, but we are not quitters,” he told her.

Her father’s words inspired her to continue with an Army career, and she retrained as a public affairs specialist.

“Failing out of OCS was probably the best thing for me because it gave me the opportunity to work in public affairs,” Tobey said, “which is what I wanted to do anyway. I was very pleased with the end result.”

For Tess, serving her country always has been a lifelong dream. In high school she tried to enlist in the Marine Corps, but her father, a former Marine `gunnery sergeant and Desert Storm veteran, made a deal with her.
“‘Give me one year of college; if you don’t like it, then you can join.’ That was the deal we made,” Tess said.
Tess joined the ROTC program at Ohio State University, where she received a two-year ROTC scholarship and earned her commission.

She also met her husband at the Leader Development and Assessment Course at Fort Lewis, Wash. He’s finishing field artillery training and hopes to join the 2nd Battalion, 377th Field Artillery Regiment of the 4th ABCT.

A running joke between the sisters and their parents is whose service is the toughest. Their mother, a former Marine Corps corporal, enjoys teasing her daughters.
Tess recalled when she attended a military ball while a cadet. “I wore my Class As and my mom tells me, ‘I never thought one of my daughters would ever wear those greens,’” she said. “I was about ready to cry.”

Tobey said when she was deciding which service to join, her parents were supportive. They told her, “It’s your life. Choose the service that is the best fit for you.”
However, upon signing the contract, her parents teased her by saying the Marines were too tough.
As Tobey’s tour comes to a close and Tess’ begins, the sisters said they were grateful to spend some time together, especially during the holidays.
“I lugged a few gifts with me just to have her open them on Christmas,” Tess said.
Tobey left her younger sister with a few words of encouragement.

“Your deployment will be what you make of it,” she told her. “If you stay focused, workout, and don’t get complacent, the time will fly by.”
“Take care of Dad,” Tess responded. “Mom will be fine, but you know Dad will spend every other day worrying.”
Tess then proceeded to give her sister one more taunt about why she is better.
“I’m airborne and she’s not. Airborne, Hooah!” joked Tess.

Military Contract December 27, 2011

NAVY

Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $485,000,000 not-to-exceed cost-plus-fixed-fee undefinitized modification to a previously awarded advance acquisition contract (N00019-10-C-0002). A total of $131,500,000 is being obligated at time of award. This modification provides the F-35 Lightning II, Joint Strike Fighter Low Rate Initial Production Lot V production non-recurring requirements inclusive of special tooling/special test equipment and subcontractor technical assistance for the Air Force, Navy, and the Cooperative Partner participants. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (30 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (20 percent); Wharton, United Kingdom (20 percent); Turin, Italy (15 percent); Nashua, N.H. (8 percent); and Baltimore, Md. (7 percent). Work is expected to be completed in December 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the Air Force ($186,725,000; 38.5 percent); the U.S. Navy ($186,725,000; 38.5 percent); and the Cooperative Partner participants ($111,550,000; 23 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $253,000,000 modification to definitize the previously awarded F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter Low Rate Initial Production IV sustainment undefinitized contract action (N00019-09-C-0010). This contract has both cost-plus-incentive-fee and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract line items. This modification provides for recurring and non-recurring sustainment for the Navy, the Air Force, and the Cooperative Program participants. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (35 percent); El Segundo, Calif. (25 percent); Warton, United Kingdom (20 percent); Orlando, Fla. (10 percent); Nashua, N.H. (5 percent); and Baltimore, Md. (5 percent). Work is expected to be completed in May 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $169,686,815 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract combines purchases for the Navy ($140,300,000; 55.5 percent); the Air Force ($89,100,000; 35.2 percent); and the Cooperative Program participants ($23,600,000; 9.3 percent). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Co., McKinney, Texas, is being awarded $49,900,000 for ceiling priced repair delivery order 7000 under previously awarded basic ordering agreement (N00383-10-G-003D) for the repair of 40 weapons replaceable assembly/shop replaceable assembly for the Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared System used in support of the F/A-18 aircraft. Work will be performed in McKinney, Texas (70 percent); Jacksonville, Fla. (25 percent); and El Segundo, Calif. (5 percent). Work is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2012. The applicable 2012 Navy Working Capital Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole-source soliciation. The Naval Supply Weapon Systems Support, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity.

DRS Tactical Systems, Inc., Melbourne, Fla., is being awarded a $48,637,000 fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the procurement of Joint Platform Tablet (JPT) systems and related components to upgrade and enhance the capabilities of the currently fielded systems. The JPT provides a common interface between all command, control, computers, communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems within the Family of Special Operations Vehicles platforms by providing users with the ability to control and monitor all communications, navigational, command and control, and intelligence gathering systems. Work will be performed in Melbourne, Fla., and is expected to be completed in December 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to FAR 6.301-1. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-12-D-0007).

Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $45,588,204 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for design agent engineering and technical support services for Phalanx, SeaRAM, and Land-based Phalanx Weapon Systems. The Phalanx Close-In Weapon System is a fast-reaction terminal defense against low- and high-flying, high-speed maneuvering anti-ship missile threats that have penetrated all other defenses. Operating either autonomously or integrated with a combat system, it is an automatic terminal defense weapon system designed to detect, track, engage, and destroy anti-ship missile threats penetrating outer defense envelopes. The design agent engineering and technical support services are required for maintainability, reliability, and improvements. Funds in the amount of $726,000 will be provided at contract award. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by January 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-12-C-5405).

Bell-Boeing Joint Project Office, Amarillo, Texas, is being awarded a $30,221,470 fixed-price-incentive, cost-plus-fixed-fee order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00019-07-G-0008) for non-recurring engineering and testing efforts for the redesigned mid-wing avionic units in support of the CV-22 and MV-22 aircraft. The mid-wing avionic units include the vibration structural life and engine diagnostics airborne unit, the fuel management unit, and the drive system interface unit. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (99 percent), and Philadelphia, Pa. (1 percent), and is expected to be completed in June 2014. Contract funds in the amount of $30,221,470 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Co., Portsmouth, R.I., is being awarded a $21,066,612 not-to-exceed letter contract for fiscal 2012 NATO Seasparrow surface missile systems MK 57 MOD 12/13, guided missile launching system MK 29 MOD 5, and assorted spares. Funds in the amount of $4,087,434 are obligated at time of award. This contract includes options, which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value to $26,350,589. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, R.I., and is expected to be completed by September 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured as there is only one responsible source to satisfy agency requirements. Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-12-C-5404).

Argon ST, Smithfield, Pa., is being awarded a $14,792,994 firm-fixed-priced indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for procurement of four AN/SLQ-25A/C systems and spare parts. AN/SLQ-25A/C is a digitally controlled, modular design, electro-acoustic softkill countermeasure decoy system. The system defends ships against wake homing, acoustic homing, and wire guided torpedoes. Funds in the amount of $5,894,689 will be provided at contract award. This contract combines purchases for the U.S. Navy (66 percent), and under the Foreign Military Sales Program, the government of Canada (34 percent). The work will be performed in Smithfield, Pa., and is expected to be completed by December 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-12-D-6216).

Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Co., Inc., Woodland Hills, Calif., is being awarded an $8,880,685 firm-fixed-price delivery order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00019-11-G-0016) for 52 GEN II mission computers for the H-1 upgrades Lot 9 production aircraft. Work will be performed in Woodland, Calif., and is expected to be completed in January 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Corp., Owego, N.Y., is being awarded an $8,400,000 firm-fixed-price modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-06-D-0012) in support of the Pakistan Upgrade Program (PUP) for the P-3 aircraft. This effort includes Phase Depot Maintenance Phase I for aircraft 505; removal and replacement of engines for A/C 505 and 511; and support costs associated with a schedule extension to the PUP Plus effort. Work will be performed in Greenville, S.C. (65 percent), and Owego, N.Y. (35 percent), and is expected to be completed in May 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Bethpage, N.Y., is being awarded a $6,924,496 modification to a delivery order placed against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N00421-05-G-0001) to exercise an option for sustainment, engineering, and technical services, and travel in support of Taiwan Air Force E-2C aircraft under the Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed in Bethpage, N.Y. (70 percent), and Pingtung Air Force Base, Taiwan (30 percent), and is expected to be completed in January 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

AIR FORCE

All Native Services, Winnebago, Neb., is being awarded an $84,000,000 firm-fixed-price and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technical data support services. The location of the performance is Robins Air Force Base, Ga. Work is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2012. WR-ALC/PKOA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8501-12-D-0001).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

LB&B Associates, Inc., Columbia, Md., was awarded a fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract with a minimum $15,172,546 for operation and maintenance of government fixed fuel and cryogenics facilities, aviation aircraft fuel services, cryogenics storage and distribution operations and ground vehicle fuel services. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Navy. There were five responses to the solicitation. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2012 through 2017 Defense Working Capital Funds. The date of performance completion is March 31, 2017. The Defense Logistics Agency Energy, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-12-C-5203).

Federal Prison Industries, Inc., doing business as UNICOR, Washington, D.C., was awarded a firm-fixed-price contract with a maximum $14,919,701 for universal camouflage pattern and multi-cam pattern extreme cold wet weather trousers. Other location of performance is Kentucky. Using service is Army. There were nine responses to the solicitation. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2012 through 2013 Defense Working Capital Funds. The date of performance completion is May 30, 2013. The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM1C1-12-C-F002).

The overseas overseers: Yokota's incident commanders

by Airman 1st Class John D. Partlow
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

12/27/2011 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- When an incident occurs on a base, such as an active shooter situation or major vehicle accident, many different organizations come together to resolve the situation. The person in charge of these operations on the scene is the incident commander.

As incident commander, they oversee and direct the responders working to contain the situation. They also work closely with the emergency operation center, ensuring base leadership has correct and current information.

The specific duties of an incident commander can range from being in charge of building evacuations to making sure Airmen working in the affected area have plenty of food and water.

"Being the incident commander can be very stressful," said Master Sgt. Jon Ammon, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron assistant chief of operations, "but we are well trained by some of the best schools and courses in the world. The incident command system is a relatively new, mandated system for civilian first responders back in the U.S., but the Air Force has been practicing ICS for years, so we are very well trained and experienced."

On Dec. 6, 2011, two incident commanders at Yokota were faced with a situation that required not only their expertise, but also the assistant of many military members to include fellow service members from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan.

During a dig at a construction site here, a World War II-era unexploded ordnance was discovered. After being notified of the situation, Master Sgt. James Beasley, 374th CES assistant chief of operations, and Ammon began taking shifts as incident commanders.

The incident commanders began sending Airmen from the 374th Security Forces Squadron to evacuate the area near the bomb site.

After a cordon was established around the site, an explosive ordnance disposal team from Yokosuka, helped relieve the situation.

"Our initial priority was to isolate the site," said Ammon. "We wanted everyone safe and away from the UXO. Once we isolated the area, we shifted our focus to EOD and how best to support them."

With the EOD team's guidance, 374th CES members carefully placed wood, sandbags and sand on top of the site to suppress the blast.

The EOD team detonated the UXO shortly thereafter, and the cordon around the site was soon lifted. The operation went without incident because of the coordination of the involved Yokota members.

"No one got hurt so it went well," said Beasley.

While incidents could happen at virtually any time, Yokota members can rest assured knowing that Yokota personnel are standing by, waiting to take command and control.

"I love my job," said Beasley. "I get paid to do a job and hold a position that is so fulfilling personally, and I couldn't ask for anything more."

SARM: Where the rubber meets the road

by Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/26/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The aviation resource managers of Kunsan seem to do many things, but most importantly, they make sure the pilots of the 8th Fighter Wing can fly and complete their mission.

The host aviation resource management and wing scheduling offices do many things, but when it comes right down to it, some would say they're too far from the squadrons.

Lucky for the team, that's alright; as the Air Force has ensured each squadron under the wing have their own "one charlies" to assist as the pack takes the fight north.

"We have a very crucial component of the Air Operations supporting the Wolf Pack mission," said Master Sgt. Kalana Murdock, 35th Fighter Squadron superintendent. "We ensure pilots are fully qualified to fly."

Sound familiar? Well it is in a sense, but what the squadron aviation resource managers do is much more personable. Staff Sgt. Darious Williams, 80th Fighter Squadron aviation resource management NCO in charge, said he gets to interact with the pilots and maintainers more.

"We're actually in there with the pilots," the sergeant said. "We have to learn more about the aircraft and the lingo involved."

"This is where everything happens," added Senior Airman Mauricio Murcia, 80th FS ARM journeyman. "HARM is like the hub and we're where the day-to-day operations take place."

Tying it all together, SARM not only interacts directly with core HARM responsibilities, but also with those of wing scheduling as well.

"The SARM office is also utilized in the process of tracking flying hours that are used to determine (for the fiscal year) what the squadron will ultimately receive in funding by the Air Force to conduct flying operations," said Senior Airman Sterling Williams, 35th FS ARM journeyman. "The SARM offices are also the main focal point for dispersing information to third parties such as maintenance, wing scheduling, base operations, and other parties involved in getting pilots to their jet to complete the mission and return back safely in order to complete future missions."

Completing future missions and saving the Air Force valuable resources is very important, especially this day in age. And according the 35th's Williams, SARM is at the front, leading the pack.

"Working in the SARM gives 1Cs a great opportunity to be at the 'tip of the spear' in flying operations," he said. "Our career consists of understanding what the pilots need in order to fly. For example, we track life support equipment training and intelligence briefings for 'Go or No-Go' to fly requirements."

"As a 1C you are actually part of the fight directly," Murdock added. "We support the war fighters in either checking flying currencies to working as the focal point of squadron operations [operations desk]."

As put by many of those working in SARM, they are the "eyes and ears for flying and training operations".

"We ensure there are checks and balances in reference to aircrew training requirements are in line with Air Force Instructions," said Master Sgt. Kevin McFadden, 80th FS operations superintendent. "Our job is to inform the director of operations of the status of our pilots."

The SARM office is used for tracking information and resources such as ground training, flying training, types of sorties and missions that have been completed, etc. Having the SARM office also helps document what the squadron has done so far (missions, etc.), and is essential for the training and evaluations offices. For example, both sections use our data to determine if the squadron is on the right path to being combat ready.

"Working in SARM really has given me a full-circle look at the mission," said the 80th's Williams.

"What we do directly influences the mission readiness of our pilots, and ultimately the safety of our country," Murcia added. "We ensure our pilots are fully capable and trained to provide for and defend our country."

Panetta 'Will Not Tolerate' Bullying, Hazing

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2011 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta added a pointed anti-bullying directive to a holiday message sent Dec. 23 to service members around the world.

"I cannot be more proud of who you are and what you represent as you serve and sacrifice for our great nation," the message read, in part. "With that honor, is the responsibility to show by example our core values that demand we treat everyone with dignity and respect at all times.

"In that vein, let me be clear," the secretary continued. "I will not tolerate any instance where one service member inflicts any form of physical or psychological abuse that degrades, insults, dehumanizes or injures another service member."

Panetta directed military commanders to "personally review" policies and ensure compliance.

"This has my personal attention, as we continue our combat mission in Afghanistan, transition from our campaign in Iraq, and continue our global presence performing our nation's duties," the secretary wrote. "I need you to continue to make this a priority within your commands as this has a direct impact on our force readiness."

Members of the Defense Department and the services "will protect each other through fair, scrupulous, and unbiased treatment as individuals -- caring for them, teaching them and leading them," Panetta wrote. "It is the obligation of each member in the chain of command to ensure hazing is not allowed and that all service members are treated, at all times, with genuine dignity, fairness, and respect."

The Army Dec. 21 charged eight soldiers allegedly involved in the death of Army Pvt. Danny Chen. Chen, an infantryman deployed to southern Afghanistan with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, was found dead in a guard tower Oct. 3 from an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also spoke out strongly against hazing and bullying after the charges were announced. In a message posted to Facebook and Twitter Dec. 22, he wrote that while instances of hazing appear to be isolated, the practice is "simply intolerable."

"It undermines our values, tarnishes our profession and erodes the trust that bonds us," the chairman added.

The secretary's message to troops ended with his thanks for their work."

Kunsan CSA chosen to join AF Thunderbirds

by Senior Airman Jessica Hines
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/26/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Staff Sgt. Travis Kennison, 8th Communications Squadron client systems assistant NCO in charge, was recently named one of the newest members on the Air Force's premier aerobatic demonstration team, the Thunderbirds.

Chosen for his expertise and knowledge on computer systems and virtual private networking, Kennison will serve in one of only a few select positions assisting Thunderbird crew team members and commanders with all their client systems administrator needs.

Made up of 12 pilots and more than 120 enlisted members, the premier demonstration squadron requires the commitment and expertise of a broad range of career specialties. Setting up VPNs allow commanders and staff the ability to access emails and important documents while on the road, and with the Thunderbirds extensive travel commitments, proper and secure networking capabilities are a must.

During the lengthy application process, Kennison submitted a formal application package and took part in a phone interview to determine his qualifications.

"They're high profile, you have to have your stuff straight," said Kennison. "It's going to be a challenge, but I'm looking forward to it."

Kennison, a former broadcast maintenance technician, has nearly finished his one year tour at Kunsan Air Base and feels confident in all he has learned since joining the career field.

"He was my first choice to be the assistant NCO in charge of the CST shop," said Tech. Sgt. Heather McConaghy, 8th CS CST NCO in charge, making note of his ability to handle many tasks and under strict deadlines with persistence, integrity and a strong work ethic.

"We are all very excited for him and know he will do an awesome job!" she added.

Kennison leaves for Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., in February, home of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, where he will be joined by his wife and children for a three year commitment to the team.

"I still have a lot of unanswered questions myself," said Kennison, referring to all the details of the position he will be holding and all of his responsibilities as a CSA with the Thunderbirds. "I'm just going into it with an open mind."

Kennison had the full support of his office and leadership when he applied for the job, which was apparent in his commander's recommendation to the Thunderbirds.

"Travis's accomplishments speak for themselves ... bottom line: He is a proven and recognized manager and top NCO leader in multiple fields," said Maj. Brian Snyder, 8th CS commander.

Unabashedly, Kennison admitted to doing a cartwheel when he saw the news of his acceptance through an email.

"I just stood straight up and did a cartwheel in the middle of the room," said Kennison. "My supervisor didn't even have to ask why; she just said, 'you must have been accepted to the Thunderbirds.'"

Commentary - OPERATION BOLO: The Wolf Pack gets its name

by Howard E. Halvorsen
7th Air Force Historian

12/27/2011 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Operation Bolo was born within the context of Operation Rolling Thunder, which went on from March 2, 1965 to Nov. 1, 1968.

Operation Rolling Thunder was the most intense air and ground battle waged during the Cold War period and was fought during the Vietnam War. During the last months of 1966 the MiG-21s of the Vietnam People's air force became very active and were successfully intercepting the F-105 Thunderchiefs', or "Thuds", formations of the U.S. Air Force which were flying missions for Rolling Thunder. The number of F-105 supersonic fighter-bomber planes lost to the MiGs worried the U.S., so the Air Force decided to make an important effort to neutralize the MiG threat: the effort known as Operation Bolo.

The idea and planning of this operation was the masterpiece of a living legend among the U.S. F-4 Phantom pilots in Southeast Asia: Col. Robin Olds.

He was a P-38 Lightning and P-51 Mustang Ace during World War II, credited with 12 kills against the German Luftwaffe in 1944 and 1945, and now - at 44 years old - he was the commanding officer of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing.

He was an old-fashioned fighter pilot: impulsive, rough, hard-drinking, but a natural leader and an intuitive tactician. It was said the sign over his door read, "Peace Is Not Our Profession", in mocking reference to Strategic Air Command's motto. His vice commander was Col. Daniel James, who went on to become not only the Air Force's first African American four-star general, but in any American military service. In those less-inhibited times, the men of the 8th TFW openly referred to this great duo as "Blackman and Robin."

Olds realized the F-105 and F-4 formations used the same approaches time after time, and that the signals intelligence analysts in Hanoi had become experts in identifying the more vulnerable F-105s from the F-4s by their radio frequencies and call signs. Olds decided to fly a large F-4 formation using the same routes, altitude, and call signs as the F-105s. By doing this, he hoped the MiG-21s would be guided toward them expecting to find slower Thunderchiefs, and when they realized the truth it would be too late. To further convince the enemy, the wing modified its aircraft to carry electronic countermeasures pods previously used only on the F-105s.

The operational plan was presented to Gen. William Momyer, 7th Air Force commander, on Dec. 22, 1966. Momyer approved the plan, which was assigned the code name "Bolo" after the cane-cutting machete that doubled as a Filipino martial arts weapon. Sharp and deadly, the Filipino bolo does not appear to be a weapon until the opponent is drawn in too close to evade. This was the intent of the plan - to draw the MiGs into the Phantoms' kill zone and strike while the VPAF were still expecting to find the less-dangerous F-105s.

The D-Day of Bolo was Jan. 2, 1967. Olds presented the plan to his pilots as being one where they would be wolves in sheep's clothing. His last words to them were, "alright you Wolf Pack, let's go get'em."

The attack was an unprecedented success and was the most successful aerial battle of the war. Flying with call signs derived from American cars of the period; Ford, Rambler, and (inevitably for the CO's flight) Olds, the 8th TFW caught them completely by surprise. Assistance was given by the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, who was covering possible MiG withdrawal routes.

Between seven and nine enemy MiG-21s were shot down that day, depending on who did the counting. The VPAF was grounded for several months for fear of losing all their planes while teaching their pilots updated tactics. Bob Hope, while on tour, referred to the 8th TFW as the "greatest distributor of MiG parts in the world."

The 8th TFW has been known as the Wolf Pack ever since.

This Day in Naval History - Dec. 27

1814 - Destruction of schooner Carolina, the last of Commodore Daniel Patterson's make-shift fleet that fought a series of delaying actions that contributed to Andrew Jackson's victory at the Battle of New Orleans. After loss of craft, the naval guns were mounted on shore to continue the fight.

Lincoln Sailors Receive Holiday Mail

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan P. Idle, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) received more than 77,000 pounds of holiday mail during a vertical replenishment at sea, Dec. 20.

Logistics specialists assigned to the Lincoln postal office and volunteers from around the ship sorted the 36 pallets of packages and letters by departments to ensure all the Sailors received their mail.

Chief Logistics Specialist Brent Lewis, Lincoln's postal officer, emphasized the importance of getting holiday mail to Sailors as efficiently as possible.

"For some Sailors, it's their first time being away from home and missing the holidays," Lewis said. "So to make it up to them, we bring Christmas to them ahead of schedule. And we won't tell their loved ones if they open their gifts early."

Lewis has been deployed before, and he knows firsthand the morale boost a holiday package or letter can give a Sailor.

"Just the feel of opening a box is joyful, and the excitement of finding out what's inside is even more of a thrill," he said.

Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Jennifer Brenke, assigned to Lincoln's personnel support detachment, said the efforts of the postal team will ensure the holidays are happier for Sailors like her.

"Being away from home, one simple package can mean the whole world to someone," Brenke said. "It just means that your family is looking out for you. Even though we're miles away, we can still be connected by one little box."

Lincoln, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, is currently deployed to the 7th and 5th Fleet areas of responsibilities.

CSG 9 is comprised of Lincoln, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9, which includes guided-missile destroyers USS Momsen (DDG 92) and USS Sterett (DDG 104).