By USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) visited Naval Station Everett April 12 to meet with Abraham Lincoln Strike Group and base Sailors and civilians.
Before arriving on board Lincoln, Secretary Ray Mabus visited with Navy Region Northwest and NAVSTA Everett leadership. Once aboard, he held an all hands call in the ship's hangar bay with an estimated 2,000 Sailors and civilians in attendance.
In his remarks SECNAV highlighted the flexibility of the Navy and recognized the deckplate leaders who make it all happen.
"The Navy is the one force America has that can get there fast and stay there," said Mabus. "We can project power, we provide humanitarian assistance, we reassure our allies, we can meet any mission that we're given as a Navy. We're the most flexible force that America's got."
Mabus recognized the sacrifices Sailors and their families make on any given day, thanking them for their service and passing on assurance that the nation appreciated their efforts.
"We've got the best trained, best equipped, best educated force we've ever had, and America knows we can do anything. That's because of the people on this hangar deck today," said Mabus.
"I call the Navy 'America's Away Team'. When we're doing our jobs we're a long way from home. Not many people know or understand the sacrifices you make and what your families go through. I thank you and the nation thanks you."
SECNAV concluded his remarks by taking questions from the audience and reserved time to take photos and shake hands with Sailors.
This is the SECNAV's first visit to the Northwest Region. After his visit to NAVSTA Everett he continued on to meet with key community and government leaders in the Seattle area.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Lynn, Mullen Host Sesame Workshop Preview
By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - With help from a few familiar faces from Sesame Street, top defense officials hosted a preview of Sesame Workshop's newest outreach initiative, "When Families Grieve," here today. Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Mike Mullen joined Sesame's Elmo, Rosita and cousin Jesse at the Pentagon for a special viewing of the initiative, which provides free resources in support of families with young children coping with the death of a parent.
This initiative addresses the challenge of confronting death and loss, Lynn said, topics that are difficult to talk about, particularly with children.
"But nothing is more important than supporting our families," he said. "It's important to have the tools to help the youngest members of our military families deal with their challenges."
The initiative acknowledges the range of emotions children feel when confronted with loss, from sadness to anger to eventual moments of happiness, Lynn said.
"Elmo, Rosita and Jesse help us reach children in ways that they can understand," he said. "They also show adults how to reassure their children that they are safe and loved."
The loss of a loved one is the most devastating challenge, and something no one should have to experience alone, Mullen emphasized.
"I'd also like to affirm and reaffirm the leadership's dedication to families, those who have made such a difference in these very difficult times in order to support the challenges that we have as a country and as a military," he said. "And that dedication, that focus and that priority will never go away.
"It's about supporting our families and those who sacrifice so much for the rest of their lives," he added.
Mullen thanked Sesame Workshop for addressing "very, very difficult" issues. "As they say, when Elmo talks, children listen," he said.
In the past eight and a half years, more than 12,000 military children have experienced the death of a parent, noted Gary E. Knell, president and CEO of Sesame Workshop.
"We know how difficult these times can be," he said. "And with the power of our characters paired with resources that we are trying to create, we are hopefully offering the right words for both kids and adults."
"When Families Grieve" will launch tomorrow with a one-hour primetime special, featuring Katie Couric and the Sesame Muppets, on PBS at 8 p.m. EDT, Knell said. The special shows how Elmo and his cousin Jesse deal with the loss of Jesse's father, and also presents four families' personal stories about coping with the death of a parent, as well as the strategies that helped them move forward.
Two of the families are military: one with a parent who died in combat and the other with a parent who committed suicide.
"What makes this program so unique is that we hear from the children of these families and gain insights into their thoughts and feelings about the death of their parent," Knell said. "This project, we hope, will help us to bridge the gaps that might exist between military kids and children within the general public."
After the special, Sesame Workshop will roll out nearly 1 million free multimedia kits to families and grief service providers worldwide, Knell said. The kit includes a DVD featuring the Muppets and the families that experienced loss; print materials, including a parent and caregiver guide; a children's storybook; and a facilitator's guide to using the project's components.
The materials will be available online at sesamestreet.org/grief beginning April 15. A customized military family kit also will be available through Military OneSource, http://militaryonesource.com, beginning April 21.
"When Families Grieve" is a continuation of Sesame Workshop's "Talk, Listen, Connect" outreach initiative, which was launched in 2006 to provide resources and emotional support to military families with young children coping with challenging transitions, including deployments and combat-related injuries.
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - With help from a few familiar faces from Sesame Street, top defense officials hosted a preview of Sesame Workshop's newest outreach initiative, "When Families Grieve," here today. Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Mike Mullen joined Sesame's Elmo, Rosita and cousin Jesse at the Pentagon for a special viewing of the initiative, which provides free resources in support of families with young children coping with the death of a parent.
This initiative addresses the challenge of confronting death and loss, Lynn said, topics that are difficult to talk about, particularly with children.
"But nothing is more important than supporting our families," he said. "It's important to have the tools to help the youngest members of our military families deal with their challenges."
The initiative acknowledges the range of emotions children feel when confronted with loss, from sadness to anger to eventual moments of happiness, Lynn said.
"Elmo, Rosita and Jesse help us reach children in ways that they can understand," he said. "They also show adults how to reassure their children that they are safe and loved."
The loss of a loved one is the most devastating challenge, and something no one should have to experience alone, Mullen emphasized.
"I'd also like to affirm and reaffirm the leadership's dedication to families, those who have made such a difference in these very difficult times in order to support the challenges that we have as a country and as a military," he said. "And that dedication, that focus and that priority will never go away.
"It's about supporting our families and those who sacrifice so much for the rest of their lives," he added.
Mullen thanked Sesame Workshop for addressing "very, very difficult" issues. "As they say, when Elmo talks, children listen," he said.
In the past eight and a half years, more than 12,000 military children have experienced the death of a parent, noted Gary E. Knell, president and CEO of Sesame Workshop.
"We know how difficult these times can be," he said. "And with the power of our characters paired with resources that we are trying to create, we are hopefully offering the right words for both kids and adults."
"When Families Grieve" will launch tomorrow with a one-hour primetime special, featuring Katie Couric and the Sesame Muppets, on PBS at 8 p.m. EDT, Knell said. The special shows how Elmo and his cousin Jesse deal with the loss of Jesse's father, and also presents four families' personal stories about coping with the death of a parent, as well as the strategies that helped them move forward.
Two of the families are military: one with a parent who died in combat and the other with a parent who committed suicide.
"What makes this program so unique is that we hear from the children of these families and gain insights into their thoughts and feelings about the death of their parent," Knell said. "This project, we hope, will help us to bridge the gaps that might exist between military kids and children within the general public."
After the special, Sesame Workshop will roll out nearly 1 million free multimedia kits to families and grief service providers worldwide, Knell said. The kit includes a DVD featuring the Muppets and the families that experienced loss; print materials, including a parent and caregiver guide; a children's storybook; and a facilitator's guide to using the project's components.
The materials will be available online at sesamestreet.org/grief beginning April 15. A customized military family kit also will be available through Military OneSource, http://militaryonesource.com, beginning April 21.
"When Families Grieve" is a continuation of Sesame Workshop's "Talk, Listen, Connect" outreach initiative, which was launched in 2006 to provide resources and emotional support to military families with young children coping with challenging transitions, including deployments and combat-related injuries.
Freedom, Mexican Sailors Help Local Orphanage
By Lt. Ed Early and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class AC Rainey, USS Freedom Public Affairs
MANZNILLO, Mexico (NNS) -- Sailors from the littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) provided repairs and painted a Manzanillo orphanage April 12 during their first port visit in Mexico.The community relations (COMREL) project at Casa Hogar Liborio Espinoza teamed Freedom's Sailors with some of their counterparts from the Mexican Navy. Both groups of Sailors spent the morning painting the orphanage's exterior walls, trimming trees and bushes, and fixing fences.
They also entertained the young residents of Casa Hogar – one of whom even tried his hand at painting a wall along with the visitors.
"I was an orphan," said Engineman 2nd Class (SW) Francis Janis. "I was adopted as a child; I came from an orphanage in Colombia and then a foster home in the U.S. Every chance I see to actually get to be involved with an orphanage or help people out, help a community out, I always take some kind of interest in it."
The first ship in the littoral combat ship program, Freedom arrived in Manzanillo April 10 to begin its first theater security cooperation (TSC) port visit in the U.S. 3rd Fleet Area of Responsibility.
During their stay at Casa Hogar, Freedom's Sailors went high and low to pitch in, from mending a chain-link fence to pruning overgrown bushes. Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Kevon Henry even went up into a coconut tree to clear away low-hanging fronds.
The extra effort was much appreciated, said orphanage director Susan Lopez.
"Most of our staff here are volunteers – I am a volunteer," Lopez said. "And we take care of 22 children with very little help. Any time we can receive assistance, we appreciate it, because we only can afford so much. Our children need help, and we are very thankful for all the work they are doing here today."
As part of the COMREL, Freedom also turned over four pallets of medical and hygiene supplies donated by Project Handclasp.
For Janis, who had the opportunity to visit his native Colombia earlier in Freedom's deployment, COMRELs like the one at Casa Hogar have provided him with an opportunity to give back.
"There's opportunity in COMRELs, especially when dealing with children," he said. "I have a daughter of my own and I love to play and interact with kids and to help them out in their lives."
Freedom began its maiden deployment Feb. 16, more than two years ahead of schedule, and will complete the deployment when it arrives in its homeport of San Diego in late April.
Freedom will help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.
MANZNILLO, Mexico (NNS) -- Sailors from the littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) provided repairs and painted a Manzanillo orphanage April 12 during their first port visit in Mexico.The community relations (COMREL) project at Casa Hogar Liborio Espinoza teamed Freedom's Sailors with some of their counterparts from the Mexican Navy. Both groups of Sailors spent the morning painting the orphanage's exterior walls, trimming trees and bushes, and fixing fences.
They also entertained the young residents of Casa Hogar – one of whom even tried his hand at painting a wall along with the visitors.
"I was an orphan," said Engineman 2nd Class (SW) Francis Janis. "I was adopted as a child; I came from an orphanage in Colombia and then a foster home in the U.S. Every chance I see to actually get to be involved with an orphanage or help people out, help a community out, I always take some kind of interest in it."
The first ship in the littoral combat ship program, Freedom arrived in Manzanillo April 10 to begin its first theater security cooperation (TSC) port visit in the U.S. 3rd Fleet Area of Responsibility.
During their stay at Casa Hogar, Freedom's Sailors went high and low to pitch in, from mending a chain-link fence to pruning overgrown bushes. Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Kevon Henry even went up into a coconut tree to clear away low-hanging fronds.
The extra effort was much appreciated, said orphanage director Susan Lopez.
"Most of our staff here are volunteers – I am a volunteer," Lopez said. "And we take care of 22 children with very little help. Any time we can receive assistance, we appreciate it, because we only can afford so much. Our children need help, and we are very thankful for all the work they are doing here today."
As part of the COMREL, Freedom also turned over four pallets of medical and hygiene supplies donated by Project Handclasp.
For Janis, who had the opportunity to visit his native Colombia earlier in Freedom's deployment, COMRELs like the one at Casa Hogar have provided him with an opportunity to give back.
"There's opportunity in COMRELs, especially when dealing with children," he said. "I have a daughter of my own and I love to play and interact with kids and to help them out in their lives."
Freedom began its maiden deployment Feb. 16, more than two years ahead of schedule, and will complete the deployment when it arrives in its homeport of San Diego in late April.
Freedom will help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.
General Officer Assignments
April 13, 2010 - The Chief of Staff, Army announced today the following assignments:
Maj. Gen. Stephen R. Lanza, director, J-9, U.S. Forces-Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq, to chief of public affairs, Office of the Secretary of the Army, Washington, D.C.
Maj. Gen. Michael S. Repass, commanding general, U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C., to commander, Special Operations Command Europe/director of special operations, U.S. European Command, Germany.
Brig. Gen. Peter C. Bayer Jr., chief of staff, I Corps, Fort Lewis, Wash., to director of strategy, plans and policy, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C.
Brig. Gen. Alan R. Lynn, commanding general, 311th Theater Signal Command, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, to commanding general, Signal Center of Excellence, and Fort Gordon, Fort Gordon, Ga.
Brig. Gen. Bradley W. May, commanding general, U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence and Fort Jackson, Fort Jackson, S.C., to director, Iraq Training and Advisory Team, U.S. Forces-Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq.
Brig. Gen. Bennet S. Sacolick, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, N.C., to commanding general, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Maj. Gen. Stephen R. Lanza, director, J-9, U.S. Forces-Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq, to chief of public affairs, Office of the Secretary of the Army, Washington, D.C.
Maj. Gen. Michael S. Repass, commanding general, U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C., to commander, Special Operations Command Europe/director of special operations, U.S. European Command, Germany.
Brig. Gen. Peter C. Bayer Jr., chief of staff, I Corps, Fort Lewis, Wash., to director of strategy, plans and policy, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C.
Brig. Gen. Alan R. Lynn, commanding general, 311th Theater Signal Command, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, to commanding general, Signal Center of Excellence, and Fort Gordon, Fort Gordon, Ga.
Brig. Gen. Bradley W. May, commanding general, U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Center of Excellence and Fort Jackson, Fort Jackson, S.C., to director, Iraq Training and Advisory Team, U.S. Forces-Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq.
Brig. Gen. Bennet S. Sacolick, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, N.C., to commanding general, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, N.C.
Enterprise Crash, Salvage Conducts Drills During Fast Cruise
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark Meredith, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- The Crash and Salvage crew aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted crash drills on the first day of the aircraft carrier's fast cruise April 11.
Enterprise is currently conducting a fast cruise exercise in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard in preparation for sea trials scheduled later this month.
Enterprise Air Department's V-1 division increased their training regimen to prepare the ship and crew for operational status after two years in the
shipyard.
"The drills we ran today were Phase Three drills," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) 3rd Class (AW) Brad E. Lovin, a crash crewman on the Crash and Salvage team. "During this drill we use a crane to hoist up planes using hook-up points on top of the aircraft."
The crew uses the crane or a dolly to move the aircraft. In the event crash and salvage personnel are unable to move an aircraft with the dolly, the crane is deployed to pull the aircraft out of the way of other aircraft so flight operations can continue. "These drills allow us to prepare in case of a real emergency," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) 2nd Class (AW) John D. Back, Crash and Salvage leading petty officer. "Our readiness is essential to the protection of the flight deck and the ship."
During flight operations, V-25 fire trucks are standing by to be employed at a moment's notice.
"We have two airmen on the truck who immediately respond to put out the fire," said Lovin. "The rest of crash and salvage responds using fire hoses and the turret on the truck."
The combined efforts of the airmen from the Crash and Salvage team ensure the safety of the crew and aircraft on the flight deck.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- The Crash and Salvage crew aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted crash drills on the first day of the aircraft carrier's fast cruise April 11.
Enterprise is currently conducting a fast cruise exercise in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard in preparation for sea trials scheduled later this month.
Enterprise Air Department's V-1 division increased their training regimen to prepare the ship and crew for operational status after two years in the
shipyard.
"The drills we ran today were Phase Three drills," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) 3rd Class (AW) Brad E. Lovin, a crash crewman on the Crash and Salvage team. "During this drill we use a crane to hoist up planes using hook-up points on top of the aircraft."
The crew uses the crane or a dolly to move the aircraft. In the event crash and salvage personnel are unable to move an aircraft with the dolly, the crane is deployed to pull the aircraft out of the way of other aircraft so flight operations can continue. "These drills allow us to prepare in case of a real emergency," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) 2nd Class (AW) John D. Back, Crash and Salvage leading petty officer. "Our readiness is essential to the protection of the flight deck and the ship."
During flight operations, V-25 fire trucks are standing by to be employed at a moment's notice.
"We have two airmen on the truck who immediately respond to put out the fire," said Lovin. "The rest of crash and salvage responds using fire hoses and the turret on the truck."
The combined efforts of the airmen from the Crash and Salvage team ensure the safety of the crew and aircraft on the flight deck.
Navy Medical Team Provides Care Above Arctic Circle During Alaskan Humanitarian Mission
KOTZEBUE, Alaska (NNS) -- A Navy Reserve medical team from Operational Health Support Unit Camp Lejeune (OHSU CL) is participating in a two-week humanitarian mission to Alaska April 10-24 in a real-world operation called "Operation Arctic Care."
The mission is a joint cold weather military exercise involving all branches of the service, Reserves and the National Guard who team up with local health organizations to provide medical care for native Alaskans who live above the Arctic Circle, an area with some of the harshest weather in the United States.
More than 26 Navy Medical Reservists from OHSU CL were hand-selected to participate. The Navy team, comprised of four medical officers with expertise in gastroenterology, emergency room, family practice, internal medicine, along with dental officers, podiatrists, nurse practioners, staff Nurses and hospital corpsmen, will work with teams from the Air Force, Army and Navy, including Reserve, Guard and active duty units, positioned in more than ten different remote villages near Kotzebue, Alaska is subzero conditions.
"It certainly is our privileged and honor to take part and represent Navy Medicine on this important mission to Alaska," said Navy Capt. Kathleen Thorp, commanding officer of Operational Health Support Unit Camp Lejeune. "Missions like this help my Sailors prepare for future deployments in a Joint Service environment as well as training them to work in cold weather conditions. They are very excited to offer their clinical expertise working side-by-side with our sister services providing medical and dental care with the less privileged of eleven remote communities of Alaska."
Operation Arctic Care is an Innovative Readiness Training exercise (IRT), where military medical personnel team up with civilian authorities providing expert medical care to the underserved populations. This type of mission prepares the medical team for both operational and humanitarian deployments, and working in a joint environment. IRTs are sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. This is the 16th year, Navy Medical personnel have participated.
With no vehicle access to the sites, the teams will be airlifted in by Army Blackhawk helicopters. The Navy Reserve team will join military medical professionals from more than 30 states in what has become the largest recurring joint military medical and logistics training exercise of its kind, while providing real-world humanitarian assistance and medical care.
Cmdr. Shane Bowen arrived at headquarters for this mission April 10 and was requested to fill in as one of the two area's emergency room physicians at the local remote hospital due to a recent unexpected departure of their emergency room physician.
All 250 military medical personnel could see a population of anywhere from 150-3,000 Alaskans for common health issues.
The mission is a joint cold weather military exercise involving all branches of the service, Reserves and the National Guard who team up with local health organizations to provide medical care for native Alaskans who live above the Arctic Circle, an area with some of the harshest weather in the United States.
More than 26 Navy Medical Reservists from OHSU CL were hand-selected to participate. The Navy team, comprised of four medical officers with expertise in gastroenterology, emergency room, family practice, internal medicine, along with dental officers, podiatrists, nurse practioners, staff Nurses and hospital corpsmen, will work with teams from the Air Force, Army and Navy, including Reserve, Guard and active duty units, positioned in more than ten different remote villages near Kotzebue, Alaska is subzero conditions.
"It certainly is our privileged and honor to take part and represent Navy Medicine on this important mission to Alaska," said Navy Capt. Kathleen Thorp, commanding officer of Operational Health Support Unit Camp Lejeune. "Missions like this help my Sailors prepare for future deployments in a Joint Service environment as well as training them to work in cold weather conditions. They are very excited to offer their clinical expertise working side-by-side with our sister services providing medical and dental care with the less privileged of eleven remote communities of Alaska."
Operation Arctic Care is an Innovative Readiness Training exercise (IRT), where military medical personnel team up with civilian authorities providing expert medical care to the underserved populations. This type of mission prepares the medical team for both operational and humanitarian deployments, and working in a joint environment. IRTs are sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. This is the 16th year, Navy Medical personnel have participated.
With no vehicle access to the sites, the teams will be airlifted in by Army Blackhawk helicopters. The Navy Reserve team will join military medical professionals from more than 30 states in what has become the largest recurring joint military medical and logistics training exercise of its kind, while providing real-world humanitarian assistance and medical care.
Cmdr. Shane Bowen arrived at headquarters for this mission April 10 and was requested to fill in as one of the two area's emergency room physicians at the local remote hospital due to a recent unexpected departure of their emergency room physician.
All 250 military medical personnel could see a population of anywhere from 150-3,000 Alaskans for common health issues.
Gates Travels to Peru to Promote Regional Cooperation
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is traveling to Lima, Peru, for the first stop of a regional visit to encourage continued multilateral cooperation in confronting common threats and to explore new ways the United States can help. Gates, who also will make stops in Colombia and Barbados, told reporters he plans to recognize successes already made as the region faces insurgencies, drug trafficking, and other challenges.
Gates said he hopes to "explore opportunities for more cooperation."
"We very much support and are prepared to facilitate ... the growing regional cooperation that is going on among these different countries, Peru and Colombia, and I might say, Mexico as well," he said.
"This kind of cooperation is very important," Gates continued. "They face similar types of problems with insurgents and narcotics and crime, and so figuring out how we can further help them in their own efforts and also in their cooperation with one another is an important opportunity."
Tomorrow in Lima, Gates is slated to meet with President Alan Garcia and Defense Minister Rafael Rey to discuss Peru's fight against illicit drug trafficking and the Shining Path terrorist organization. The Shining Path, also known as Sendero Luminoso, had been all but neutralized in Peru. However, it has begun to surface in recent years through sporadic violent attacks funded largely through cocaine trafficking, a senior defense official told reporters on background.
Gates, who hosted Rey at the Pentagon in February, will reaffirm the U.S. commitment in helping the Lima government confront its top security challenges, the official said.
The visit is Gates' second to Peru as defense secretary. He last visited in October 2007, when Peruvian defense officials presented him a plan for combating arms and drug trafficking along Peru's rivers and coasts.
The trip follows yesterday's signing of a new defense cooperation agreement with Brazil. Gates called that accord "an important step forward in our bilateral relationship [and] our military-to-military relationship with Brazil."
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is traveling to Lima, Peru, for the first stop of a regional visit to encourage continued multilateral cooperation in confronting common threats and to explore new ways the United States can help. Gates, who also will make stops in Colombia and Barbados, told reporters he plans to recognize successes already made as the region faces insurgencies, drug trafficking, and other challenges.
Gates said he hopes to "explore opportunities for more cooperation."
"We very much support and are prepared to facilitate ... the growing regional cooperation that is going on among these different countries, Peru and Colombia, and I might say, Mexico as well," he said.
"This kind of cooperation is very important," Gates continued. "They face similar types of problems with insurgents and narcotics and crime, and so figuring out how we can further help them in their own efforts and also in their cooperation with one another is an important opportunity."
Tomorrow in Lima, Gates is slated to meet with President Alan Garcia and Defense Minister Rafael Rey to discuss Peru's fight against illicit drug trafficking and the Shining Path terrorist organization. The Shining Path, also known as Sendero Luminoso, had been all but neutralized in Peru. However, it has begun to surface in recent years through sporadic violent attacks funded largely through cocaine trafficking, a senior defense official told reporters on background.
Gates, who hosted Rey at the Pentagon in February, will reaffirm the U.S. commitment in helping the Lima government confront its top security challenges, the official said.
The visit is Gates' second to Peru as defense secretary. He last visited in October 2007, when Peruvian defense officials presented him a plan for combating arms and drug trafficking along Peru's rivers and coasts.
The trip follows yesterday's signing of a new defense cooperation agreement with Brazil. Gates called that accord "an important step forward in our bilateral relationship [and] our military-to-military relationship with Brazil."
Cancer survivor to compete in Warrior Games
by Bekah Clark
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - It's been two years and three months since Senior Master Sgt. Michael Sanders overcame an aggressive form of cancer.
Despite undergoing extensive treatment and recovery efforts, Sergeant Sanders has made sure to keep fitness a part of his lifestyle, achieving perfect scores on physical training tests, running races, and participating in fitness programs since his recovery began in January 2008, earning him not only one, but two distinct honors.
On March 26, Sergeant Sanders, Air Force Network Integration Center, was selected as one of only 20 athletes who will represent the Air Force at the Department of Defense's first-ever Warrior Games May 10 through 14 in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was also named Scott Air Force Base Athlete of the Year.
Sergeant Sanders initially applied to be a coach for the Warrior Games, a sports competition hosted by the U.S. Olympic Committee, for wounded, ill or injured warriors, but was chosen as an athlete instead. He'll compete in the 1,500-meter run event and may also compete in the Ultimate Warrior Challenge, an event made up of a 50-meter swim, a 100-meter sprint and 1500-meter run, as well as shooting an air rifle and throwing shot put.
"It's a great opportunity for wounded, ill or injured Airmen to come out and compete in events that many had great skill in before, as well as inspire and encourage other people and show that you can overcome challenges," Sergeant Sanders said.
"It is extremely humbling to know of all the athletes on the base that God has bestowed this honor on me," the sergeant said. "He has allowed me to work with so many people when it comes to fitness that I am forever grateful. There are so many people who are a part of this award especially at the (618th Tanker Airlift Control Center), and around the world, who helped motivate and encourage me to get back out there. I hope my journey encourages others as well."
His faith and setting goals have allowed him to persevere in his post-cancer physical conditioning, Sergeant Sanders said
"It was difficult to be on the couch or on the bed every day, with the tons of emotions you go through, wondering if you're going to live or not, so you try to set sights out," he said. "At first, they're little goals because the first step is to get out and run just a little bit and then run a little bit more. For someone who was used to running 30 to 45 miles per week, and starting back at a quarter-mile run, I thought I was never going to get back to where I was, but God's grace is abundant, and I'm grateful that He still allows me to take part in that passion that I had."
Sergeant Sanders also gave credit to his help on the ground, his fitness wingmen, for his success.
"Having wingmen who are into fitness and will rally around and coach you along and motivate you helps tremendously," he said.
His attitude and willingness to share his story contributes to his success as well.
"Mike has an outstanding sense of humor and can often be found smiling," said Bernie Honsberger, Sergeant Sanders' supervisor. "He never misses an opportunity to pass on life's lessons he has learned by telling his story to high school students, teenagers in trouble, and adults alike."
Sergeant Sanders has been running for more than 30 years and cycles as well. His current fitness routine includes working out four to five times a week with his co-workers as well as on his own, and incorporates running and strength training. Sergeant Sanders' next immediate goal is to give his best in the Warrior Games, and maybe another half marathon this fall.
Despite the challenges, "it doesn't matter how tough it is, because it's a blessing to still be alive," he said.
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - It's been two years and three months since Senior Master Sgt. Michael Sanders overcame an aggressive form of cancer.
Despite undergoing extensive treatment and recovery efforts, Sergeant Sanders has made sure to keep fitness a part of his lifestyle, achieving perfect scores on physical training tests, running races, and participating in fitness programs since his recovery began in January 2008, earning him not only one, but two distinct honors.
On March 26, Sergeant Sanders, Air Force Network Integration Center, was selected as one of only 20 athletes who will represent the Air Force at the Department of Defense's first-ever Warrior Games May 10 through 14 in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was also named Scott Air Force Base Athlete of the Year.
Sergeant Sanders initially applied to be a coach for the Warrior Games, a sports competition hosted by the U.S. Olympic Committee, for wounded, ill or injured warriors, but was chosen as an athlete instead. He'll compete in the 1,500-meter run event and may also compete in the Ultimate Warrior Challenge, an event made up of a 50-meter swim, a 100-meter sprint and 1500-meter run, as well as shooting an air rifle and throwing shot put.
"It's a great opportunity for wounded, ill or injured Airmen to come out and compete in events that many had great skill in before, as well as inspire and encourage other people and show that you can overcome challenges," Sergeant Sanders said.
"It is extremely humbling to know of all the athletes on the base that God has bestowed this honor on me," the sergeant said. "He has allowed me to work with so many people when it comes to fitness that I am forever grateful. There are so many people who are a part of this award especially at the (618th Tanker Airlift Control Center), and around the world, who helped motivate and encourage me to get back out there. I hope my journey encourages others as well."
His faith and setting goals have allowed him to persevere in his post-cancer physical conditioning, Sergeant Sanders said
"It was difficult to be on the couch or on the bed every day, with the tons of emotions you go through, wondering if you're going to live or not, so you try to set sights out," he said. "At first, they're little goals because the first step is to get out and run just a little bit and then run a little bit more. For someone who was used to running 30 to 45 miles per week, and starting back at a quarter-mile run, I thought I was never going to get back to where I was, but God's grace is abundant, and I'm grateful that He still allows me to take part in that passion that I had."
Sergeant Sanders also gave credit to his help on the ground, his fitness wingmen, for his success.
"Having wingmen who are into fitness and will rally around and coach you along and motivate you helps tremendously," he said.
His attitude and willingness to share his story contributes to his success as well.
"Mike has an outstanding sense of humor and can often be found smiling," said Bernie Honsberger, Sergeant Sanders' supervisor. "He never misses an opportunity to pass on life's lessons he has learned by telling his story to high school students, teenagers in trouble, and adults alike."
Sergeant Sanders has been running for more than 30 years and cycles as well. His current fitness routine includes working out four to five times a week with his co-workers as well as on his own, and incorporates running and strength training. Sergeant Sanders' next immediate goal is to give his best in the Warrior Games, and maybe another half marathon this fall.
Despite the challenges, "it doesn't matter how tough it is, because it's a blessing to still be alive," he said.
MSRON 7 Participates at Guam School Career Day
By Oyaol Ngirairikl, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs
SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 7 Sailors introduced hundreds of students at Astumbo Elementary School on Guam to the different jobs available in the Navy and at their command during the school's career day April 13.
"We were excited to come out today to show the kids what we do at MSRON 7 as a force protection unit," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class (EXW/SW/AW) Todrick Christful, president of the command's Junior Enlisted Association (JEA). "One of our goals is to help strengthen the relationship that MSRON 7 and the Navy has with the island community and us coming here and talking to the kids about what we do and who we are helps to do that."
MSRON 7 JEA Sailors spoke with students about the command's mission and the tools they use to complete their assignments. The Sailors brought two Oswald patrol boats to the school and students had the opportunity to board the boats for a closer look.
"It was really great because I got to tell them all about the Navy and give those students who are familiar with the Navy a better understanding of what the Navy does for the nation and what MSRON 7 does out here in the Pacific," said Information Specialist 2nd Class Angel Schaefer.
MSRON 7 has established strong ties with the island community through volunteer efforts at schools such as Astumbo and the command's sister village of Sinajana. Christful said the JEA's goal is to help junior enlisted Sailors learn the importance of community service.
"The JEA offers Sailors, especially our junior Sailors, an opportunity to really understand the bigger picture," he said. "When we do things to help someone out, whether that someone is a fellow Sailor or a student at Astumbo Elementary, they can truly see that their mission, their job and their actions have an impact on others in the community."
Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (EXW) Bryan Mather said he enjoyed the chance to meet and speak with students.
"For me it's all about being able to give back to the community and to help out where we can," Mather said. "The military is a large part of the island and the civilians here have been kind enough to open their home to us. This is just one of the things we can do to show we appreciate their hospitality and that we want to be a part of the island family."
Josie Gatman, an Astumbo Elementary teacher and career day coordinator, said her goal in inviting MSRON 7 Sailors was to have a positive impact on students and motivate them to look toward their future.
"We have kids who say they want to join the military but aren't aware that there are different jobs they can do there," she said. "I really wanted to open another door of opportunity for them."
MSRON 7, which was commissioned in May 2004, provides rapidly deployable forces to conduct or support anti-terrorism and force protection missions. It promotes the nation's Maritime Strategy by providing security for U.S. citizens through the application of sea power and by strengthening partnerships with allied nations.
SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 7 Sailors introduced hundreds of students at Astumbo Elementary School on Guam to the different jobs available in the Navy and at their command during the school's career day April 13.
"We were excited to come out today to show the kids what we do at MSRON 7 as a force protection unit," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class (EXW/SW/AW) Todrick Christful, president of the command's Junior Enlisted Association (JEA). "One of our goals is to help strengthen the relationship that MSRON 7 and the Navy has with the island community and us coming here and talking to the kids about what we do and who we are helps to do that."
MSRON 7 JEA Sailors spoke with students about the command's mission and the tools they use to complete their assignments. The Sailors brought two Oswald patrol boats to the school and students had the opportunity to board the boats for a closer look.
"It was really great because I got to tell them all about the Navy and give those students who are familiar with the Navy a better understanding of what the Navy does for the nation and what MSRON 7 does out here in the Pacific," said Information Specialist 2nd Class Angel Schaefer.
MSRON 7 has established strong ties with the island community through volunteer efforts at schools such as Astumbo and the command's sister village of Sinajana. Christful said the JEA's goal is to help junior enlisted Sailors learn the importance of community service.
"The JEA offers Sailors, especially our junior Sailors, an opportunity to really understand the bigger picture," he said. "When we do things to help someone out, whether that someone is a fellow Sailor or a student at Astumbo Elementary, they can truly see that their mission, their job and their actions have an impact on others in the community."
Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (EXW) Bryan Mather said he enjoyed the chance to meet and speak with students.
"For me it's all about being able to give back to the community and to help out where we can," Mather said. "The military is a large part of the island and the civilians here have been kind enough to open their home to us. This is just one of the things we can do to show we appreciate their hospitality and that we want to be a part of the island family."
Josie Gatman, an Astumbo Elementary teacher and career day coordinator, said her goal in inviting MSRON 7 Sailors was to have a positive impact on students and motivate them to look toward their future.
"We have kids who say they want to join the military but aren't aware that there are different jobs they can do there," she said. "I really wanted to open another door of opportunity for them."
MSRON 7, which was commissioned in May 2004, provides rapidly deployable forces to conduct or support anti-terrorism and force protection missions. It promotes the nation's Maritime Strategy by providing security for U.S. citizens through the application of sea power and by strengthening partnerships with allied nations.
Enterprise Conducts Fast Cruise Replenishment
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jacob D. Galito, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
NEWPORT NEWS, Va (NNS) -- In preparation for sea trials, Sailors aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted a mock underway replenishment (UNREP) April 12 during its fast cruise exercise.
The drill simulated refueling and receiving cargo while underway, and provided Sailors the opportunity to hone rate-specific skills and ultimately bring Enterprise another step closer to sea trials.
The world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier can stay out at sea almost indefinitely, limited mainly by its stock of supplies and fuel. Conducting an UNREP allows the ship to restock necessary supplies without having to interrupt the ship's mission for a significant length of time.
While UNREPs require the participation of nearly all hands, the Deck department and bridge watch team play especially vital roles integral roles. The officer of the deck, conning officer, helmsman and lee helmsman actually navigate the ship through the required maneuvers, while Deck department Sailors are tasked with completing the UNREP in a safe and timely manner.
"My role, overall, is to make sure that we are manned up, on station on time, with safety briefs complete and qualified personnel on station to refuel or take on cargo," said Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW/AW) Sequincy Culver, Deck department's leading chief petty officer.
Additionally, Culver ensures all Deck department Sailors are fully trained and ready for all other at-sea operations.
"We have a new crew so it's going to take a lot of alongside time to get these personnel qualified to do underway replenishments efficiently and safely," said Culver. "However, with the help of my seasoned Deck Sailors who've been on deployment, I have no doubt they will teach them everything they need to know to do this event effectively. Getting Sailors qualified for details like UNREP allows us to show the fleet that we are ready to join the fight."
The Engineering department also plays a critical role, ensuring all UNREP equipment has electrical power, hydraulic fluid and is in good working order.
An UNREP is an all-hands event, and one for which Enterprise continues to train for as the ship prepares to get underway for the first time in two years.
Enterprise is conducting a fast cruise exercise in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard in preparation for sea trials scheduled later this month.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va (NNS) -- In preparation for sea trials, Sailors aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted a mock underway replenishment (UNREP) April 12 during its fast cruise exercise.
The drill simulated refueling and receiving cargo while underway, and provided Sailors the opportunity to hone rate-specific skills and ultimately bring Enterprise another step closer to sea trials.
The world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier can stay out at sea almost indefinitely, limited mainly by its stock of supplies and fuel. Conducting an UNREP allows the ship to restock necessary supplies without having to interrupt the ship's mission for a significant length of time.
While UNREPs require the participation of nearly all hands, the Deck department and bridge watch team play especially vital roles integral roles. The officer of the deck, conning officer, helmsman and lee helmsman actually navigate the ship through the required maneuvers, while Deck department Sailors are tasked with completing the UNREP in a safe and timely manner.
"My role, overall, is to make sure that we are manned up, on station on time, with safety briefs complete and qualified personnel on station to refuel or take on cargo," said Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW/AW) Sequincy Culver, Deck department's leading chief petty officer.
Additionally, Culver ensures all Deck department Sailors are fully trained and ready for all other at-sea operations.
"We have a new crew so it's going to take a lot of alongside time to get these personnel qualified to do underway replenishments efficiently and safely," said Culver. "However, with the help of my seasoned Deck Sailors who've been on deployment, I have no doubt they will teach them everything they need to know to do this event effectively. Getting Sailors qualified for details like UNREP allows us to show the fleet that we are ready to join the fight."
The Engineering department also plays a critical role, ensuring all UNREP equipment has electrical power, hydraulic fluid and is in good working order.
An UNREP is an all-hands event, and one for which Enterprise continues to train for as the ship prepares to get underway for the first time in two years.
Enterprise is conducting a fast cruise exercise in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard in preparation for sea trials scheduled later this month.
US Service Members in Japan Learn Motorcycle Safety, Enhance Skills
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Ryan Smith, Navy Public Affairs Support Element Det. Japan
YOKOHAMA, Japan (NNS) -- More than 40 service members from installations across Japan's Kanagawa prefecture gathered at Yokohama's North Dock facility April 10 to practice motorcycle safety at the 2010 Motorcycle Rodeo.
The rodeo included a variety of events, such as a slow speed race, relays and an obstacle course.
The events were intended to teach riders how to maintain control on the road and improve their riding skills.
"We have riders from all military installations in the area practicing their skills," said Randall Mills, a volunteer from Cape Fox Pro Services and the event organizer. "We also answer safety questions. A lot of riders new to the area aren't familiar with the required safety gear, like vests we have to wear by law in Japan."
Some Sailors found the rodeo a good opportunity to hone their riding skills and learn more about the culture of riding a motorcycle in Japan.
"It's always a good opportunity to come out and practice skills in a controlled environment," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jody Sawyer. "Once you learn your capabilities you are more likely to be safer on the road."
The free event included a cookout, giveaways and safety takeaways.
"The riders get to improve themselves, exchange stories and have fun," said Mills. "It's all about honing skills to become a safer rider."
YOKOHAMA, Japan (NNS) -- More than 40 service members from installations across Japan's Kanagawa prefecture gathered at Yokohama's North Dock facility April 10 to practice motorcycle safety at the 2010 Motorcycle Rodeo.
The rodeo included a variety of events, such as a slow speed race, relays and an obstacle course.
The events were intended to teach riders how to maintain control on the road and improve their riding skills.
"We have riders from all military installations in the area practicing their skills," said Randall Mills, a volunteer from Cape Fox Pro Services and the event organizer. "We also answer safety questions. A lot of riders new to the area aren't familiar with the required safety gear, like vests we have to wear by law in Japan."
Some Sailors found the rodeo a good opportunity to hone their riding skills and learn more about the culture of riding a motorcycle in Japan.
"It's always a good opportunity to come out and practice skills in a controlled environment," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jody Sawyer. "Once you learn your capabilities you are more likely to be safer on the road."
The free event included a cookout, giveaways and safety takeaways.
"The riders get to improve themselves, exchange stories and have fun," said Mills. "It's all about honing skills to become a safer rider."
MDSU-1 Sailors Reflect on Humanitarian Mission in Haiti
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1 deployed to Haiti to support Operation Unified Response Jan. 20, providing humanitarian assistance to the earthquake-ravaged nation.
After spending a week in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, MDSU-1 personnel were sent to Haiti for two weeks to be part of a command and control element.
"We arrived in Haiti by way of the Dutch ship HNLMS Pelikaan, about eight days after the earthquake happened and there was a lot of smoke and physical damage that we could see from afar," said Chief Warrant Officer Jeffrey Landry. "It was completely devastating, and the nation was in terrible condition."
"There were a lot of cracks in the ground and it looked and felt like the Earth had literally been ripped open," added Navy Diver 2nd Class Curtis Wiley. "I've been to third-world countries before but I've never seen a place in that bad of a condition. You could definitely tell they needed aid and help."
While in Port-Au-Prince, MDSU-1 personnel worked with many other commands to aid the citizens.
"As a part of the Command and Control element for salvage operations, we worked with several commands including Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7, MDSU-2, the Air Force and the Haitian Army along with others," said Landry. "MDSU-1 did a great job of coordinating not only salvage related work, but also with being able to get food, water, fuel and basic life support for people."
Wiley reflected on the experience of helping the citizens of Haiti in their time of need.
"Anytime you get to help other people it's very rewarding and it was even more so this time being that their country had just gone through a major catastrophe," Wiley said. "My biggest reward was to be involved in a mission that not only the United States military was a part of, but also all of the other countries' militaries that were involved with the relief effort."
Other MDSU-1 personnel that were deployed to Haiti were Cmdr. John Moulton, commanding officer of MDSU-1; Command Master Chief Jose Lara; Master Chief Navy Diver Cliff Morin; and Senior Chief Navy Diver John Hopkins.
Navy Seabees are still on the ground in Haiti, improving roads and other infrastructure in advance of the rainy season, expected to start in mid-April. The engineering efforts, like the work of other Sailors who have served in Haiti, are expected to continue to save many lives.
Sailors stationed from throughout the world have served in Haiti as medical first responders, relief coordinators, engineers and even divers.
MDSU-1's mission is to provide swift and mobile ship salvage, towing, battle damage repair, deep ocean recovery, harbor clearance and underwater ship repair capabilities in support of the 3rd and 7th fleets.
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1 deployed to Haiti to support Operation Unified Response Jan. 20, providing humanitarian assistance to the earthquake-ravaged nation.
After spending a week in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, MDSU-1 personnel were sent to Haiti for two weeks to be part of a command and control element.
"We arrived in Haiti by way of the Dutch ship HNLMS Pelikaan, about eight days after the earthquake happened and there was a lot of smoke and physical damage that we could see from afar," said Chief Warrant Officer Jeffrey Landry. "It was completely devastating, and the nation was in terrible condition."
"There were a lot of cracks in the ground and it looked and felt like the Earth had literally been ripped open," added Navy Diver 2nd Class Curtis Wiley. "I've been to third-world countries before but I've never seen a place in that bad of a condition. You could definitely tell they needed aid and help."
While in Port-Au-Prince, MDSU-1 personnel worked with many other commands to aid the citizens.
"As a part of the Command and Control element for salvage operations, we worked with several commands including Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7, MDSU-2, the Air Force and the Haitian Army along with others," said Landry. "MDSU-1 did a great job of coordinating not only salvage related work, but also with being able to get food, water, fuel and basic life support for people."
Wiley reflected on the experience of helping the citizens of Haiti in their time of need.
"Anytime you get to help other people it's very rewarding and it was even more so this time being that their country had just gone through a major catastrophe," Wiley said. "My biggest reward was to be involved in a mission that not only the United States military was a part of, but also all of the other countries' militaries that were involved with the relief effort."
Other MDSU-1 personnel that were deployed to Haiti were Cmdr. John Moulton, commanding officer of MDSU-1; Command Master Chief Jose Lara; Master Chief Navy Diver Cliff Morin; and Senior Chief Navy Diver John Hopkins.
Navy Seabees are still on the ground in Haiti, improving roads and other infrastructure in advance of the rainy season, expected to start in mid-April. The engineering efforts, like the work of other Sailors who have served in Haiti, are expected to continue to save many lives.
Sailors stationed from throughout the world have served in Haiti as medical first responders, relief coordinators, engineers and even divers.
MDSU-1's mission is to provide swift and mobile ship salvage, towing, battle damage repair, deep ocean recovery, harbor clearance and underwater ship repair capabilities in support of the 3rd and 7th fleets.
DFT Latvia Breaks New Ground
VENTSPILS, Latvia (NNS) -- A Deployment for Training of 24 Seabees, from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7, has begun construction projects in preparation for Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2010.
Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 are in Latvia working on construction projects in support of Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2010.
The Seabees are involved in the deployment for training (DFT), which will include a variety of construction projects and possible humanitarian outreach missions.
"Our mission is to provide Exercise Related Construction (ERC) in support of BALTOPS 2010," said Ens. Li-wei Chen, DFT Latvia officer-in-charge (OIC). "We will establish a five-acre base camp for a Marine Landing Group and place a reinforced concrete pad for a Maritime pre-positioned ship offload of Marine support equipment. If time permits, we will engage in U.S. Embassy-coordinated humanitarian missions."
Upon arriving, the 24 Seabees were welcomed by Latvian Ministry of Defense (MoD) and U.S. Embassy representatives. But 24-hours later, the DFT Seabees received custody of heavy construction equipment, which they quickly learned were called "techniks" in Latvian slang.
"The initial transit from the equipment yard to the project site was rather interesting," said Construction Electrician 3rd Class Joshua Lenhart. "I don't think we needed our police escort, the way traffic halted as we convoyed through the town of Ventspils, which has a population of approximately 40,000."
According to Chen, DFT Latvia's emphasis is on construction trades needed for expeditionary camp setup and humanitarian relief, and the construction tempo has been extremely high, since all construction projects must be completed by June prior to BALTOPS 2010.
As true force enablers in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), the Seabees have faced unforeseen challenges early in their mission, Chen said. Melting snow, which oversaturated the ground around the base camp, has been the primary challenge, making heavy equipment operations a very difficult and time-consuming evolution.
While the five-acre gravel laydown pad located at base camp and a dune cut enabling Marine tanks to offload with minimal damage to surrounding forests, represent the bulk of DFT Latvia Seabees taskings, the Seabees also plan to improve their current camp conditions, which should benefit the Latvian National Guard, who will take control of the camp upon completion of BALTOPS 2010.
The Latvian MoD assigned two military representatives as liaisons to assist the Seabees in overcoming language barriers during their operations, something Chen said has proven instrumental.
"Their combined support has been a tremendous aid in assisting us with material contractors and general communications," she said.
While DFT Latvia marks the first deployment for some participating Seabees, other seasoned construction force personnel hope the workload, experience of being in another country and interaction with their Latvian counterparts are something junior Seabees can appreciate.
"Having been on multiple detachments and DFTs, I think that this will be some of the best experiences the younger Seabees will have," said Chief Equipment Operator Jerry Greer, senior enlisted advisor (SEA) and assistant officer in charge. "I'm looking forward to a safe deployment and hope the troops take back great memories of our partnership with the Latvians."
Originally started in 1971, BALTOPS is an exercise sponsored by Commander, United States European Command, aiming to promote a mutual understanding of maritime interoperability between U.S. Navy, NATO, and non-NATO participants.
Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 are in Latvia working on construction projects in support of Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2010.
The Seabees are involved in the deployment for training (DFT), which will include a variety of construction projects and possible humanitarian outreach missions.
"Our mission is to provide Exercise Related Construction (ERC) in support of BALTOPS 2010," said Ens. Li-wei Chen, DFT Latvia officer-in-charge (OIC). "We will establish a five-acre base camp for a Marine Landing Group and place a reinforced concrete pad for a Maritime pre-positioned ship offload of Marine support equipment. If time permits, we will engage in U.S. Embassy-coordinated humanitarian missions."
Upon arriving, the 24 Seabees were welcomed by Latvian Ministry of Defense (MoD) and U.S. Embassy representatives. But 24-hours later, the DFT Seabees received custody of heavy construction equipment, which they quickly learned were called "techniks" in Latvian slang.
"The initial transit from the equipment yard to the project site was rather interesting," said Construction Electrician 3rd Class Joshua Lenhart. "I don't think we needed our police escort, the way traffic halted as we convoyed through the town of Ventspils, which has a population of approximately 40,000."
According to Chen, DFT Latvia's emphasis is on construction trades needed for expeditionary camp setup and humanitarian relief, and the construction tempo has been extremely high, since all construction projects must be completed by June prior to BALTOPS 2010.
As true force enablers in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), the Seabees have faced unforeseen challenges early in their mission, Chen said. Melting snow, which oversaturated the ground around the base camp, has been the primary challenge, making heavy equipment operations a very difficult and time-consuming evolution.
While the five-acre gravel laydown pad located at base camp and a dune cut enabling Marine tanks to offload with minimal damage to surrounding forests, represent the bulk of DFT Latvia Seabees taskings, the Seabees also plan to improve their current camp conditions, which should benefit the Latvian National Guard, who will take control of the camp upon completion of BALTOPS 2010.
The Latvian MoD assigned two military representatives as liaisons to assist the Seabees in overcoming language barriers during their operations, something Chen said has proven instrumental.
"Their combined support has been a tremendous aid in assisting us with material contractors and general communications," she said.
While DFT Latvia marks the first deployment for some participating Seabees, other seasoned construction force personnel hope the workload, experience of being in another country and interaction with their Latvian counterparts are something junior Seabees can appreciate.
"Having been on multiple detachments and DFTs, I think that this will be some of the best experiences the younger Seabees will have," said Chief Equipment Operator Jerry Greer, senior enlisted advisor (SEA) and assistant officer in charge. "I'm looking forward to a safe deployment and hope the troops take back great memories of our partnership with the Latvians."
Originally started in 1971, BALTOPS is an exercise sponsored by Commander, United States European Command, aiming to promote a mutual understanding of maritime interoperability between U.S. Navy, NATO, and non-NATO participants.
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 13, 2010
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Refinery Associates of Texas, Inc.,* New Braunfels, Texas, was awarded a maximum $253,790,281 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for naval distillate fuel. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is the Defense Energy Support Center. The original proposal was Web solicited with 27 responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is April 30, 2011. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0471)
Hesco Bastion Ltd., United Kingdom, is being awarded a fixed-price with economic price adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for protective barriers. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are U.S. Forces in U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. The original proposal was Web solicited with seven responses. This contract is for a two-year base with two one-year options. The estimated annual value of the contract is $100,000,000. Total potential maximum value of the contract is $1,000,000,000. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM8E6-10-D-0008)
Valero Marketing & Supply Co., San Antonio, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $68,347,800 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for aviation turbine fuel. Other location of performance is in Corpus Christi, Texas. This is under the Foreign Military Sales program. The original proposal was Web solicited with two responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Nov. 30, 2010. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0460).
Science Applications International Corp., Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $13,663,315 firm-fixed-price, sole-source contract for transmission assembly parts and axle assembly parts. Other locations of performance are Troy, Mich., and France. Using service is Army. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 16, 2011. The Defense Logistics Agency Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (SPRDL1-10-C-0030).
ARMY
BAE Systems, Sealy, Texas, was awarded on April 8 a $54,817,602 firm-fixed-price contract for an application of federal retail excise tax on 2,002 family vehicles now remaining inside the contiguous United States due to change in mission requirements. Work is to be performed in Sealy, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. TACOM Contracting Center, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-0460).
Kiewit Building Group, Omaha, Neb., was awarded on April 8 a $38,274,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of 276-person barracks for Aviation Task Force Phase 1, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Work is to be performed in Fort Wainwright, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Jan. 9, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with four bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Alaska District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-10-C-0005).
Voith Hydro, Inc., York, Pa., was awarded on April 8 a $30,818,940 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the purchase and installation of a power generation turbine. This contract upgrades the hydraulic generation turbine and is for the fabrication and delivery required to replace the runner, rewind the generator stator with a digital governor, and replaces the existing excitation system with a new digital excitation system. Work is to be performed in York, Pa. (87.8 percent), and Stockton, Mo. (12.2 percent), with an estimated completion date of Nov. 19, 2013. Three bids were solicited with three bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-10-C-1020).
Barriere Construction Co., LLC, Metairie, La., was awarded on April 8 a $16,994,620 firm-fixed-price contract for Lake Pontchartrain and vicinity, I-10 crossing of the south point to CSX railroad levee reach, LPV 109.02b, Orleans Parish, La. Work is to be performed in Orleans Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of April 23, 2011. Bids were solicited via the Federal Business Opportunities and Army Single Face to Industry Web sites, with six bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer, Hurricane Protection Office, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0071).
R.C. Construction Company, Inc., Greenwood, Miss., was awarded on April 8 a $12,981,723 firm-fixed-price contract to construct training area infrastructure at northern maneuver training area. Primary facilities include training area roads, existing training area road repair, turn pads, low water crossings, traffic signage, and field training/staging area. Work is to be performed in Fort Benning, Ga., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 10, 2011. Six bids were solicited with two bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Savannah, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912HN-09-D-0011).
General Electric Engine Services, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio, was awarded on April 8 an $8,495,120 firm-fixed-price contract for overhaul/recapitalization of 10 T700-GE-701 and 60 T700-GE-701C/D turbine engine cold section modules applicable to the UH-60 Blackhawk and AH-64 Apache helicopters. The national stock numbers are 2840-01-121-0751 and 2840-01-284-4013. Work is to be performed in Arkansas City, Kan., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, CCAM-AL-M, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-06-D-0063).
NAVY
BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a $29,636,486 cost-plus-award-fee contract for the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) post shakedown availability (PSA). This contract is for services and material for the PSA and specific efforts include: program management, planning, engineering, design, liaison, scheduling, labor, and procurement of incidental material. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va. (91 percent), and Chesapeake, Va. (9 percent), and is expected to be completed by July 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $5,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with four proposals received. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-2204).
The Consulting Network Inc.*, Middletown, Md., is being awarded a $15,105,220 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-6264) for software and hardware development, systems engineering, and procurement of commercial off-the-shelf products and hardware/software integration, in support of USS Virginia Class submarine and other submarine/surface ship systems. These services will provide for the continued engineering, fabrication, test, installation, and training services for the analysis, design, and prototyping of components related to open architecture concepts. Work will be performed in Middletown, Md., and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $10,208,402 firm-fixed-price modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-4417) for the execution efforts of the USS Miami (SSN 755) docking continuous maintenance availability. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., and is expected to be completed by August 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $10,208,402 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The U.S. Navy's Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, Groton, Conn., is the contracting activity.
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded an $8,768,862 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6306) for depot repair parts and material for repair of 1,300 production systems for dismounted Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (JCREW) systems. Dismounted JCREW systems are electronic jammers designed to prevent the initiation of radio-controlled improvised explosive devices. Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev. (90 percent), and Rancho Cordova, Calif. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by December 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems, Land and Armaments LP, U.S. Combat Systems, Minneapolis, Minn., is being awarded an $8,631,426 not-to-exceed modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5394) for mechanical design agent and canister integration of standard missiles SM-3 and SM-6 into the MK 41 vertical launching system (VLS). The MK 41 VLS provides a missile launching system for CG 47 and DDG 51-class surface combatants of the Navy, as well as surface combatants of allied navies. Work will be performed in Minneapolis, Minn. (80 percent), Brea, Calif. (15 percent), and San Diego, Calif. (5 percent), and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
El Dorado Engineering, Inc.,* Salt Lake City, Utah (N00174-10-D-0007), and Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC), McLean, Va. (N00174-10-D-0009), are each being awarded a performance-based, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple-award, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. El Dorado is being awarded $8,063,984, and SAIC is being awarded $8,436,024, to provide engineering and demilitarization of munitions; provide analytical engineering and technical support services; analyze requirements; perform assessment; data analysis/management; technical support; and program management support for the Navy and other Department of Defense (DoD) and non-DoD customers. The contract includes four one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value to $43,063,421 for El Dorado Engineering, Inc., and $44,509,256 for SAIC. Work will be performed in Salt Lake City, Utah, and McLean, Va., and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with six offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, Md. is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Northrop Grumman System Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $9,999,999 contract which will provide for additional long-lead funding of two Global Hawk Block 30M systems and two Global Hawk Block 40 systems. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8602-09-C-4001, P00003).
Refinery Associates of Texas, Inc.,* New Braunfels, Texas, was awarded a maximum $253,790,281 fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for naval distillate fuel. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is the Defense Energy Support Center. The original proposal was Web solicited with 27 responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is April 30, 2011. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0471)
Hesco Bastion Ltd., United Kingdom, is being awarded a fixed-price with economic price adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for protective barriers. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are U.S. Forces in U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. The original proposal was Web solicited with seven responses. This contract is for a two-year base with two one-year options. The estimated annual value of the contract is $100,000,000. Total potential maximum value of the contract is $1,000,000,000. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM8E6-10-D-0008)
Valero Marketing & Supply Co., San Antonio, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $68,347,800 fixed-price with economic price adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for aviation turbine fuel. Other location of performance is in Corpus Christi, Texas. This is under the Foreign Military Sales program. The original proposal was Web solicited with two responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Nov. 30, 2010. The Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (SP0600-10-D-0460).
Science Applications International Corp., Fairfield, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $13,663,315 firm-fixed-price, sole-source contract for transmission assembly parts and axle assembly parts. Other locations of performance are Troy, Mich., and France. Using service is Army. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is May 16, 2011. The Defense Logistics Agency Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (SPRDL1-10-C-0030).
ARMY
BAE Systems, Sealy, Texas, was awarded on April 8 a $54,817,602 firm-fixed-price contract for an application of federal retail excise tax on 2,002 family vehicles now remaining inside the contiguous United States due to change in mission requirements. Work is to be performed in Sealy, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. TACOM Contracting Center, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-0460).
Kiewit Building Group, Omaha, Neb., was awarded on April 8 a $38,274,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the design and construction of 276-person barracks for Aviation Task Force Phase 1, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Work is to be performed in Fort Wainwright, Alaska, with an estimated completion date of Jan. 9, 2012. Bids were solicited on the World Wide Web with four bids received. U.S. Corps of Engineers, Alaska District, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-10-C-0005).
Voith Hydro, Inc., York, Pa., was awarded on April 8 a $30,818,940 firm-fixed-price contract. This contract is for the purchase and installation of a power generation turbine. This contract upgrades the hydraulic generation turbine and is for the fabrication and delivery required to replace the runner, rewind the generator stator with a digital governor, and replaces the existing excitation system with a new digital excitation system. Work is to be performed in York, Pa. (87.8 percent), and Stockton, Mo. (12.2 percent), with an estimated completion date of Nov. 19, 2013. Three bids were solicited with three bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-10-C-1020).
Barriere Construction Co., LLC, Metairie, La., was awarded on April 8 a $16,994,620 firm-fixed-price contract for Lake Pontchartrain and vicinity, I-10 crossing of the south point to CSX railroad levee reach, LPV 109.02b, Orleans Parish, La. Work is to be performed in Orleans Parish, La., with an estimated completion date of April 23, 2011. Bids were solicited via the Federal Business Opportunities and Army Single Face to Industry Web sites, with six bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer, Hurricane Protection Office, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-10-C-0071).
R.C. Construction Company, Inc., Greenwood, Miss., was awarded on April 8 a $12,981,723 firm-fixed-price contract to construct training area infrastructure at northern maneuver training area. Primary facilities include training area roads, existing training area road repair, turn pads, low water crossings, traffic signage, and field training/staging area. Work is to be performed in Fort Benning, Ga., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 10, 2011. Six bids were solicited with two bids received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Savannah, Ga., is the contracting activity (W912HN-09-D-0011).
General Electric Engine Services, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio, was awarded on April 8 an $8,495,120 firm-fixed-price contract for overhaul/recapitalization of 10 T700-GE-701 and 60 T700-GE-701C/D turbine engine cold section modules applicable to the UH-60 Blackhawk and AH-64 Apache helicopters. The national stock numbers are 2840-01-121-0751 and 2840-01-284-4013. Work is to be performed in Arkansas City, Kan., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2011. One bid solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, CCAM-AL-M, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-06-D-0063).
NAVY
BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a $29,636,486 cost-plus-award-fee contract for the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) post shakedown availability (PSA). This contract is for services and material for the PSA and specific efforts include: program management, planning, engineering, design, liaison, scheduling, labor, and procurement of incidental material. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va. (91 percent), and Chesapeake, Va. (9 percent), and is expected to be completed by July 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $5,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with four proposals received. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-2204).
The Consulting Network Inc.*, Middletown, Md., is being awarded a $15,105,220 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-6264) for software and hardware development, systems engineering, and procurement of commercial off-the-shelf products and hardware/software integration, in support of USS Virginia Class submarine and other submarine/surface ship systems. These services will provide for the continued engineering, fabrication, test, installation, and training services for the analysis, design, and prototyping of components related to open architecture concepts. Work will be performed in Middletown, Md., and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $10,208,402 firm-fixed-price modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-4417) for the execution efforts of the USS Miami (SSN 755) docking continuous maintenance availability. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., and is expected to be completed by August 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $10,208,402 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The U.S. Navy's Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, Groton, Conn., is the contracting activity.
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded an $8,768,862 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-6306) for depot repair parts and material for repair of 1,300 production systems for dismounted Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (JCREW) systems. Dismounted JCREW systems are electronic jammers designed to prevent the initiation of radio-controlled improvised explosive devices. Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev. (90 percent), and Rancho Cordova, Calif. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by December 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
BAE Systems, Land and Armaments LP, U.S. Combat Systems, Minneapolis, Minn., is being awarded an $8,631,426 not-to-exceed modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5394) for mechanical design agent and canister integration of standard missiles SM-3 and SM-6 into the MK 41 vertical launching system (VLS). The MK 41 VLS provides a missile launching system for CG 47 and DDG 51-class surface combatants of the Navy, as well as surface combatants of allied navies. Work will be performed in Minneapolis, Minn. (80 percent), Brea, Calif. (15 percent), and San Diego, Calif. (5 percent), and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
El Dorado Engineering, Inc.,* Salt Lake City, Utah (N00174-10-D-0007), and Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC), McLean, Va. (N00174-10-D-0009), are each being awarded a performance-based, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple-award, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. El Dorado is being awarded $8,063,984, and SAIC is being awarded $8,436,024, to provide engineering and demilitarization of munitions; provide analytical engineering and technical support services; analyze requirements; perform assessment; data analysis/management; technical support; and program management support for the Navy and other Department of Defense (DoD) and non-DoD customers. The contract includes four one-year options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value to $43,063,421 for El Dorado Engineering, Inc., and $44,509,256 for SAIC. Work will be performed in Salt Lake City, Utah, and McLean, Va., and is expected to be completed by April 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with six offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, Md. is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
Northrop Grumman System Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded a $9,999,999 contract which will provide for additional long-lead funding of two Global Hawk Block 30M systems and two Global Hawk Block 40 systems. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8602-09-C-4001, P00003).
Former U.S. Army Colonel Pleads Guilty to Accepting Illegal Gratuities Related to Contracting in Support of Iraq War
Defendant Accepted $50,000 and Tickets Related to Award of $12 Million Contract
April 14, 2010 - A retired colonel in the U.S. Army pleaded guilty today to accepting thousands of dollars in gratuities from a contractor during his deployment to Iraq as a contracting officer’s representative, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division.
Kevin A. Davis, 52, of Springdale, Md., pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton in the District of Columbia to a criminal information charging him with three counts of accepting an illegal gratuity. According to the court document, Col. Davis served in 2004 as the senior member of the source selection board responsible for the award of a contract valued at nearly $12 million to build and operate several Department of Defense warehouses around Iraq. In the period during and after the solicitation of the warehouse contract, Davis accepted two airplane tickets and $50,000 in cash from the contractor who submitted the successful bid for the contract. Davis admitted that he accepted the airplane tickets and money with the understanding and belief that they were for or because of his assistance to the contractor who received the warehouse contract.
"Today’s guilty plea by a retired colonel in the U.S. Army is a powerful reminder that fraud can corrupt even those we think of as incorruptible," said Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer. "The Public Integrity Section and our law enforcement partners will continue to unravel these complex and wide-ranging contractor fraud schemes in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait."
"This guilty plea by Kevin Davis, a co-conspirator in a large contract fraud scheme, is further evidence of SIGIR’S collective efforts to root out public corruption within the Iraq program," said Stuart W. Bowen Jr., Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR). "SIGIR remains committed to investigating wrongdoing and enforcing accountability in concert with our partner law enforcement agencies."
"This case illustrates that the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and its law enforcement partners, in conjunction with the Department of Justice, will not stand to have the contracting process circumvented for personal gain. Cleaning up contract fraud in Southwest Asia, to include bribery and gratuities, is the highest priority for DCIS. While we applaud this result today, it also sets forth a good example of conduct that cannot - and will not - be tolerated," said James Burch, Deputy Inspector General for Investigations, DCIS.
Davis faces up to two years in prison and a fine of $250,000 per charged count. In addition, Davis agreed to pay $62,500 in restitution to the United States. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled by the court.
This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Richard B. Evans and Kevin O. Driscoll of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section, and Trial Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher and Emily W. Allen of the Criminal and Antitrust Divisions. The case is being investigated by the Army Criminal Investigations Division, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Department of Homeland Security, and members of the National Procurement Fraud Task Force and the International Contract Corruption Task Force (ICCTF).
Today’s charges are an example of the Department of Justice’s commitment to protect U.S. taxpayers from procurement fraud through the National Procurement Fraud Task Force. The National Procurement Fraud Initiative, announced in October 2006, is designed to promote the early detection, identification, prevention and prosecution of procurement fraud associated with the increase in contracting activity for national security and other government programs. The ICCTF is a joint law enforcement agency task force that seeks to detect, investigate and dismantle corruption and contract fraud resulting from U.S. Overseas Contingency Operations, including Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait.
Anyone with information concerning illegal conduct in the procurement of goods or services involving DOD contracts in Iraq or Afghanistan is urged to contact the National Procurement Fraud Task Force at 202- 514-7023 or the Public Integrity Section at 202-514-1412.
April 14, 2010 - A retired colonel in the U.S. Army pleaded guilty today to accepting thousands of dollars in gratuities from a contractor during his deployment to Iraq as a contracting officer’s representative, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division.
Kevin A. Davis, 52, of Springdale, Md., pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Reggie B. Walton in the District of Columbia to a criminal information charging him with three counts of accepting an illegal gratuity. According to the court document, Col. Davis served in 2004 as the senior member of the source selection board responsible for the award of a contract valued at nearly $12 million to build and operate several Department of Defense warehouses around Iraq. In the period during and after the solicitation of the warehouse contract, Davis accepted two airplane tickets and $50,000 in cash from the contractor who submitted the successful bid for the contract. Davis admitted that he accepted the airplane tickets and money with the understanding and belief that they were for or because of his assistance to the contractor who received the warehouse contract.
"Today’s guilty plea by a retired colonel in the U.S. Army is a powerful reminder that fraud can corrupt even those we think of as incorruptible," said Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer. "The Public Integrity Section and our law enforcement partners will continue to unravel these complex and wide-ranging contractor fraud schemes in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait."
"This guilty plea by Kevin Davis, a co-conspirator in a large contract fraud scheme, is further evidence of SIGIR’S collective efforts to root out public corruption within the Iraq program," said Stuart W. Bowen Jr., Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR). "SIGIR remains committed to investigating wrongdoing and enforcing accountability in concert with our partner law enforcement agencies."
"This case illustrates that the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) and its law enforcement partners, in conjunction with the Department of Justice, will not stand to have the contracting process circumvented for personal gain. Cleaning up contract fraud in Southwest Asia, to include bribery and gratuities, is the highest priority for DCIS. While we applaud this result today, it also sets forth a good example of conduct that cannot - and will not - be tolerated," said James Burch, Deputy Inspector General for Investigations, DCIS.
Davis faces up to two years in prison and a fine of $250,000 per charged count. In addition, Davis agreed to pay $62,500 in restitution to the United States. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled by the court.
This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Richard B. Evans and Kevin O. Driscoll of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section, and Trial Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher and Emily W. Allen of the Criminal and Antitrust Divisions. The case is being investigated by the Army Criminal Investigations Division, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the FBI, the Internal Revenue Service, the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Department of Homeland Security, and members of the National Procurement Fraud Task Force and the International Contract Corruption Task Force (ICCTF).
Today’s charges are an example of the Department of Justice’s commitment to protect U.S. taxpayers from procurement fraud through the National Procurement Fraud Task Force. The National Procurement Fraud Initiative, announced in October 2006, is designed to promote the early detection, identification, prevention and prosecution of procurement fraud associated with the increase in contracting activity for national security and other government programs. The ICCTF is a joint law enforcement agency task force that seeks to detect, investigate and dismantle corruption and contract fraud resulting from U.S. Overseas Contingency Operations, including Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait.
Anyone with information concerning illegal conduct in the procurement of goods or services involving DOD contracts in Iraq or Afghanistan is urged to contact the National Procurement Fraud Task Force at 202- 514-7023 or the Public Integrity Section at 202-514-1412.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
DOD Announces Winners of the Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards
April 13, 2010 - The Department of Defense has announced the winners of the 2010 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards. A panel of judges representing federal and state agencies, academia, and the public has selected the following installations, teams and individuals as the winners of this year's awards:
Fort Custer Training Center, Michigan Army National Guard
Natural Resources Conservation - Small Installation
Camp Guernsey, Wyoming Army National Guard
Cultural Resources Management - Installation
Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Hawaii
Environmental Quality - Non-industrial Installation
Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, Calif.
Sustainability - Industrial Installation
Hill Air Force Base, Utah
Environmental Restoration - Installation
Stephen M. Sieber, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
Natural Resources Conservation - Individual/Team
Awni M.Almasri, Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Bahrain
Environmental Quality - Individual/Team
Regina Dixon Butler, 45 SW restoration project manager, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla.
Environmental Restoration - Individual/Team
Aeronautical Systems Center, 77th AESW, Acquisition Environmental and Occupational
Health Risk Management Branch (ASC/ENVV), Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
Each year since 1962 the secretary of defense has honored individuals, teams, and installations for their outstanding achievements to conserve and sustain the natural and cultural resources entrusted to the Department of Defense. The under secretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics will officiate at the ceremony honoring the winners on June 2, 2010, at 11 a.m. EDT in the Pentagon Center Courtyard.
For more information on the Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards and highlights of this year's winners and honorable mentions, please visit http://www.denix.osd.mil/portal/page/portal/Awards.
Fort Custer Training Center, Michigan Army National Guard
Natural Resources Conservation - Small Installation
Camp Guernsey, Wyoming Army National Guard
Cultural Resources Management - Installation
Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Hawaii
Environmental Quality - Non-industrial Installation
Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, Calif.
Sustainability - Industrial Installation
Hill Air Force Base, Utah
Environmental Restoration - Installation
Stephen M. Sieber, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.
Natural Resources Conservation - Individual/Team
Awni M.Almasri, Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Bahrain
Environmental Quality - Individual/Team
Regina Dixon Butler, 45 SW restoration project manager, Patrick Air Force Base, Fla.
Environmental Restoration - Individual/Team
Aeronautical Systems Center, 77th AESW, Acquisition Environmental and Occupational
Health Risk Management Branch (ASC/ENVV), Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
Each year since 1962 the secretary of defense has honored individuals, teams, and installations for their outstanding achievements to conserve and sustain the natural and cultural resources entrusted to the Department of Defense. The under secretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics will officiate at the ceremony honoring the winners on June 2, 2010, at 11 a.m. EDT in the Pentagon Center Courtyard.
For more information on the Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards and highlights of this year's winners and honorable mentions, please visit http://www.denix.osd.mil/portal/page/portal/Awards.
Warrior Games Seek to Inspire Disabled Warriors
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - The goal of the inaugural Warrior Games, scheduled for May 11-14, is to build confidence and provide rehabilitation for disabled servicemembers and veterans, the commander of U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command said yesterday.
"We want to inspire [disabled] soldiers to get out there and prove that there are a lot of things that they really can do," Army Brig. Gen. Gary Cheek said in an interview with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel. "It sort of reinforces the notion that all the services have: [The Warrior Games] is about your abilities, not your disabilities. Yes, your life may be changed, but it's not over."
The games in Colorado Springs, Colo., will feature some 200 of the most athletic wounded active-duty members and military veterans in Paralympic-style competition. The U.S. Olympic Committee will host the games, and events will include shooting, swimming, archery, track, discus, shot put, cycling, sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball.
The opening ceremony is expected to bring more than 1,000 people, including the athletes, coaches and spectators. Rolling Thunder, a Vietnam War veterans advocacy group known for its patriotic motorcycle rides across the country, will escort an American flag from the site of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York City to Colorado Springs. Roger Staubach and Rocky Bleier -- former National Football League greats and military veterans --also are expected to be part of the ceremony, along with a parachute team.
Cheek, who helped to come up with the idea for the games, praised his partners in the U.S. Olympic Committee's Paralympic division, calling their support "spectacular" in helping to facilitate and organize the games. Along with hosting the games at their training site, the committee has allotted Paralympic coaches to hone the competitors' skills in the days leading up to the competition. Competitors also will be staying in lodging and using the dining facilities at the Olympic training site.
"The enthusiasm from [the Olympic Committee], their desire to support this, has been very gratifying," the general said. "The amount of cooperation between the services has been really spectacular as well. We've been working on [the Warrior Games] for the past eight months pretty hard, with recurring meetings and milestones and things to meet. It's been quite a team effort."
All of the athletes have been selected and identified for the games. The Army will be represented by 100 soldiers chosen out of a pool of almost 9,000 wounded warriors. The Marine Corps will send 50 competitors, the Air Force will send 25, and the Coast Guard and Navy will combine to send 25 more.
The competition is open to military members and veterans with bodily injuries as well as mental wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury. The Defense Department is paying for the coaches and also is picking up the tab for competitors' room and board and travel expenses.
The department also will fund one person -- whether it's a medical professional, a friend or a family member -- to accompany athletes with special needs or in-home care. Military and Olympic physicians also will be on hand at the games.
For the past several weeks, Cheek has been visiting with Army competitors, their families and warrior transition units across the services to get an understanding of how they feel about the games. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from troops looking to compete, but overall, the response has been somewhat varied, he acknowledged.
Some troops want to participate in the games immediately, Cheek explained, while others are a little wary and just not mentally or physically ready for this level of competition. Also, some wounded warriors are concerned about how the games would interfere with their rehabilitation regimens and their progress.
"The response from [wounded warriors] is somewhat mixed, but those for whom the timing is right and the desire is there, the feedback is very, very positive," Cheek said. "Just the fact that we've had over twice as many applicants as we have for the number of slots is a good indication of the level of desire the soldiers have to get into this."
Cheek also has learned from his visits with troops that setting goals can make a tremendous impact on recovery. Goal-oriented troops seem to have a much faster recovery rate, another positive aspect the games may have, he said.
This is the type of foundation and mindset Cheek hopes the Warrior Games and adaptive sports will help to instill in all disabled servicemembers and veterans, he said.
"Every soldier is unique, but it is interesting to note that those with their own personal will and desire can really accelerate their healing process and get back into life," he said. "The fact that we're pushing them in a physical venture to push themselves hard and to go out and compete ... is a big part of that."
Although there are some mental and emotional advantages to the games, Cheek said, he sees the games for what they are -- an athletic competition. He looks forward to the troops challenging each other, "talking trash" and being really motivated to win, he said.
"I really see the Warrior Games as a great and challenging athletic event, and may the best athletes win," the general said. "Will there be some therapeutic benefits? I think there will be. [But] I'm looking forward to a little bit of the trash talking that'll be going on among those soldiers and letting them try to get back into a new normal for them -- let them get into an environment where they can knock heads and mess with each other and have some fun."
But mostly, Cheek said, he is looking forward to sitting down and chat with the competitors after the games to get their feedback and find out what could have been done better.
"Let the games begin," he said. "I'm ready to get out there and see what happens. I really want our soldiers to realize that it's all about your abilities, not your disabilities."
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - The goal of the inaugural Warrior Games, scheduled for May 11-14, is to build confidence and provide rehabilitation for disabled servicemembers and veterans, the commander of U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command said yesterday.
"We want to inspire [disabled] soldiers to get out there and prove that there are a lot of things that they really can do," Army Brig. Gen. Gary Cheek said in an interview with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel. "It sort of reinforces the notion that all the services have: [The Warrior Games] is about your abilities, not your disabilities. Yes, your life may be changed, but it's not over."
The games in Colorado Springs, Colo., will feature some 200 of the most athletic wounded active-duty members and military veterans in Paralympic-style competition. The U.S. Olympic Committee will host the games, and events will include shooting, swimming, archery, track, discus, shot put, cycling, sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball.
The opening ceremony is expected to bring more than 1,000 people, including the athletes, coaches and spectators. Rolling Thunder, a Vietnam War veterans advocacy group known for its patriotic motorcycle rides across the country, will escort an American flag from the site of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York City to Colorado Springs. Roger Staubach and Rocky Bleier -- former National Football League greats and military veterans --also are expected to be part of the ceremony, along with a parachute team.
Cheek, who helped to come up with the idea for the games, praised his partners in the U.S. Olympic Committee's Paralympic division, calling their support "spectacular" in helping to facilitate and organize the games. Along with hosting the games at their training site, the committee has allotted Paralympic coaches to hone the competitors' skills in the days leading up to the competition. Competitors also will be staying in lodging and using the dining facilities at the Olympic training site.
"The enthusiasm from [the Olympic Committee], their desire to support this, has been very gratifying," the general said. "The amount of cooperation between the services has been really spectacular as well. We've been working on [the Warrior Games] for the past eight months pretty hard, with recurring meetings and milestones and things to meet. It's been quite a team effort."
All of the athletes have been selected and identified for the games. The Army will be represented by 100 soldiers chosen out of a pool of almost 9,000 wounded warriors. The Marine Corps will send 50 competitors, the Air Force will send 25, and the Coast Guard and Navy will combine to send 25 more.
The competition is open to military members and veterans with bodily injuries as well as mental wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury. The Defense Department is paying for the coaches and also is picking up the tab for competitors' room and board and travel expenses.
The department also will fund one person -- whether it's a medical professional, a friend or a family member -- to accompany athletes with special needs or in-home care. Military and Olympic physicians also will be on hand at the games.
For the past several weeks, Cheek has been visiting with Army competitors, their families and warrior transition units across the services to get an understanding of how they feel about the games. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from troops looking to compete, but overall, the response has been somewhat varied, he acknowledged.
Some troops want to participate in the games immediately, Cheek explained, while others are a little wary and just not mentally or physically ready for this level of competition. Also, some wounded warriors are concerned about how the games would interfere with their rehabilitation regimens and their progress.
"The response from [wounded warriors] is somewhat mixed, but those for whom the timing is right and the desire is there, the feedback is very, very positive," Cheek said. "Just the fact that we've had over twice as many applicants as we have for the number of slots is a good indication of the level of desire the soldiers have to get into this."
Cheek also has learned from his visits with troops that setting goals can make a tremendous impact on recovery. Goal-oriented troops seem to have a much faster recovery rate, another positive aspect the games may have, he said.
This is the type of foundation and mindset Cheek hopes the Warrior Games and adaptive sports will help to instill in all disabled servicemembers and veterans, he said.
"Every soldier is unique, but it is interesting to note that those with their own personal will and desire can really accelerate their healing process and get back into life," he said. "The fact that we're pushing them in a physical venture to push themselves hard and to go out and compete ... is a big part of that."
Although there are some mental and emotional advantages to the games, Cheek said, he sees the games for what they are -- an athletic competition. He looks forward to the troops challenging each other, "talking trash" and being really motivated to win, he said.
"I really see the Warrior Games as a great and challenging athletic event, and may the best athletes win," the general said. "Will there be some therapeutic benefits? I think there will be. [But] I'm looking forward to a little bit of the trash talking that'll be going on among those soldiers and letting them try to get back into a new normal for them -- let them get into an environment where they can knock heads and mess with each other and have some fun."
But mostly, Cheek said, he is looking forward to sitting down and chat with the competitors after the games to get their feedback and find out what could have been done better.
"Let the games begin," he said. "I'm ready to get out there and see what happens. I really want our soldiers to realize that it's all about your abilities, not your disabilities."
Risk of Nuclear Attack Has Grown, Obama Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - While the risk of nuclear war between countries has dropped, the risk of a nuclear attack has risen, President Barack Obama said today.
Obama officially opened the Nuclear Security Summit here, where leaders of 47 nations are meeting to address the problems of nuclear materials and the threats that rogue nations and terrorist groups pose.
Dozens of nations have nuclear materials that could be sold or stolen and fashioned into nuclear weapons, Obama said. "Just the smallest amount of plutonium, about the size of an apple, could kill and injure hundreds of thousands of innocent people," the president said.
Terror groups would use the weapon if they could get their hands on one, Obama told the group, specifically citing al-Qaida's efforts to acquire nuclear materials. "If they ever succeeded, they would surely use it," he said. "Were they to do so, it would be a catastrophe for the world, causing extraordinary loss of life and striking a major blow to global peace and stability." Nuclear terrorism is the greatest threat to the world today, and the world needs to take action, he added.
The meeting is an outgrowth of the president's call for an international effort to secure all vulnerable nuclear materials in four years.
"This is one part of a broader comprehensive agenda that the United States is pursuing, including reducing our nuclear arsenal and stopping the spread of nuclear weapons – an agenda that will bring us closer to our ultimate goal of a world without nuclear weapons," he said.
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1887 endorses this agenda.
White House officials said progress already has been made, with Ukraine agreeing to get rid of its weapons-grade nuclear materials by 2012.
Obama detailed the conference's agenda, noting that the morning session would look at ways to secure nuclear materials, and to prevent illicit trafficking and smuggling. The lunch session will look at ways to strengthen the International Atomic Energy Agency. The afternoon session will look at strengthening cooperation and to form partnerships among nations to prevent nuclear materials from ever falling into the hands of terrorists.
South Korea has agreed to host the next Nuclear Security Summit in 2012.
"For the sake of our common security, for the sake of our survival, we cannot drift," Obama said. "We need a new manner of thinking and action. That is the challenge before us."
American Forces Press Service
April 13, 2010 - While the risk of nuclear war between countries has dropped, the risk of a nuclear attack has risen, President Barack Obama said today.
Obama officially opened the Nuclear Security Summit here, where leaders of 47 nations are meeting to address the problems of nuclear materials and the threats that rogue nations and terrorist groups pose.
Dozens of nations have nuclear materials that could be sold or stolen and fashioned into nuclear weapons, Obama said. "Just the smallest amount of plutonium, about the size of an apple, could kill and injure hundreds of thousands of innocent people," the president said.
Terror groups would use the weapon if they could get their hands on one, Obama told the group, specifically citing al-Qaida's efforts to acquire nuclear materials. "If they ever succeeded, they would surely use it," he said. "Were they to do so, it would be a catastrophe for the world, causing extraordinary loss of life and striking a major blow to global peace and stability." Nuclear terrorism is the greatest threat to the world today, and the world needs to take action, he added.
The meeting is an outgrowth of the president's call for an international effort to secure all vulnerable nuclear materials in four years.
"This is one part of a broader comprehensive agenda that the United States is pursuing, including reducing our nuclear arsenal and stopping the spread of nuclear weapons – an agenda that will bring us closer to our ultimate goal of a world without nuclear weapons," he said.
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1887 endorses this agenda.
White House officials said progress already has been made, with Ukraine agreeing to get rid of its weapons-grade nuclear materials by 2012.
Obama detailed the conference's agenda, noting that the morning session would look at ways to secure nuclear materials, and to prevent illicit trafficking and smuggling. The lunch session will look at ways to strengthen the International Atomic Energy Agency. The afternoon session will look at strengthening cooperation and to form partnerships among nations to prevent nuclear materials from ever falling into the hands of terrorists.
South Korea has agreed to host the next Nuclear Security Summit in 2012.
"For the sake of our common security, for the sake of our survival, we cannot drift," Obama said. "We need a new manner of thinking and action. That is the challenge before us."
USS Crommelin Attends Merrie Monarch Festival
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Eric J. Cutright
April 13, 2010 - HILO, Hawaii (NNS) -- Sailors from the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Crommelin (FFG 37) took part in the annual Merrie Monarch Festival on the "Big Island" of Hawaii April 8-10.
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a weeklong event that celebrates the perpetuation, preservation and promotion of Hawaiian culture through education and the art of the hula.
Crommelin arrived at Hilo Pier on April 8, for a three-day port visit, where the crew had an opportunity to enjoy nightly hula competitions and to take part in the culturally-driven Hawaiian event.
"This is now the 47th year that the Navy has been represented here in Hilo for the Merrie Monarch Festival, and it's a tremendous honor for the Sailors of USS Crommelin to have been invited to participate in the ceremony," said Cmdr. Joseph M. Keenan Jr., the commanding officer of USS Crommelin.
Crommelin Sailors were able to enjoy liberty call soon after arriving at Hilo and some took the opportunity to participate in a community relations project at a Girl Scout Service Center.
"I'm just trying to help the community in any way I can while we're here for the Merrie Monarch," said Logistics Specialist 2nd class (SW/AW) Derrick Denmark.
The volunteers painted the entire outside of the service center, which provides the island's girl scouts with their supplies as well as a place for the scout troops to hold meetings.
At night, the Crommelin Sailors were invited to attend the Merrie Monarch hula competitions at the Edith Kanaka'ole Tennis Stadium.
"The fact that these Sailors were able to witness hula firsthand; I think that's really what's touched them the most. They really got to see what the aloha spirit is all about," said Command Senior Chief (SW) Matthew Danforth.
Rear Adm. Dixon Smith, commander of Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, joined Crommelin on its second day in Hilo, where he participated in the official pierside welcome ceremony. Smith, along with Keenan, presented plaques signifying the Navy's appreciation to the associate director of Merrie Monarch Festival, Hilo Council of the Navy League and the King and Queen of the Merrie Monarch Festival.
After the ceremony, Crommelin hosted a luncheon on the flight deck for its honored guests.
"It's a wonderful experience for me," said Lisa Akana-Baltero, the Mo'i Wahine, or Queen of the Merrie Monarch Festival Royal Court. "I enjoyed seeing the ship and having conversations with the crew on board. It was just a wonderful event."
On radio station KMXX FM 94.7 Hilo, radio personality Kaohu James had an opportunity to chat with Smith and Navy League Hilo Council President David DeLuz, Jr. about the Navy's participation in the popular festival and shared the importance of the Navy's presence in Hawaii.
On the third and final day of the Crommelin's involvement, Keenan, along with his executive officer and command senior chief, led his crew as they marched in the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade through downtown Hilo. Smith, joined by his wife, Kiki, walked beside the Crommelin Sailors while waving and shaking hands with people along the way.
"We are thrilled to be here," said Keenan. "The Navy and Hilo have roots that go back many, many years, and we are proud to represent the Navy at the 2010 Merrie Monarch Festival."
Before leaving Hilo, Crommelin welcomed 14 cadets from Waiakea High School Navy JROTC in Hilo to embark the ship on its return trip to Pearl Harbor.
Chief Boatswain's Mate Scott Fraser, Waiakea High School NJROTC Naval science instructor, thanked the commanding officer and crew of Crommelin for all they have done for the young cadets.
"They made us feel like real shipmates while on board. All the accommodations and tours that they gave us were fantastic," he said. The cadets thoroughly enjoyed the steel-beach picnic and flight deck movie. "I couldn't have asked for a better event," he added.
While in Pearl Harbor, the cadets toured Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Arizona Memorial and World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument.
April 13, 2010 - HILO, Hawaii (NNS) -- Sailors from the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Crommelin (FFG 37) took part in the annual Merrie Monarch Festival on the "Big Island" of Hawaii April 8-10.
The Merrie Monarch Festival is a weeklong event that celebrates the perpetuation, preservation and promotion of Hawaiian culture through education and the art of the hula.
Crommelin arrived at Hilo Pier on April 8, for a three-day port visit, where the crew had an opportunity to enjoy nightly hula competitions and to take part in the culturally-driven Hawaiian event.
"This is now the 47th year that the Navy has been represented here in Hilo for the Merrie Monarch Festival, and it's a tremendous honor for the Sailors of USS Crommelin to have been invited to participate in the ceremony," said Cmdr. Joseph M. Keenan Jr., the commanding officer of USS Crommelin.
Crommelin Sailors were able to enjoy liberty call soon after arriving at Hilo and some took the opportunity to participate in a community relations project at a Girl Scout Service Center.
"I'm just trying to help the community in any way I can while we're here for the Merrie Monarch," said Logistics Specialist 2nd class (SW/AW) Derrick Denmark.
The volunteers painted the entire outside of the service center, which provides the island's girl scouts with their supplies as well as a place for the scout troops to hold meetings.
At night, the Crommelin Sailors were invited to attend the Merrie Monarch hula competitions at the Edith Kanaka'ole Tennis Stadium.
"The fact that these Sailors were able to witness hula firsthand; I think that's really what's touched them the most. They really got to see what the aloha spirit is all about," said Command Senior Chief (SW) Matthew Danforth.
Rear Adm. Dixon Smith, commander of Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, joined Crommelin on its second day in Hilo, where he participated in the official pierside welcome ceremony. Smith, along with Keenan, presented plaques signifying the Navy's appreciation to the associate director of Merrie Monarch Festival, Hilo Council of the Navy League and the King and Queen of the Merrie Monarch Festival.
After the ceremony, Crommelin hosted a luncheon on the flight deck for its honored guests.
"It's a wonderful experience for me," said Lisa Akana-Baltero, the Mo'i Wahine, or Queen of the Merrie Monarch Festival Royal Court. "I enjoyed seeing the ship and having conversations with the crew on board. It was just a wonderful event."
On radio station KMXX FM 94.7 Hilo, radio personality Kaohu James had an opportunity to chat with Smith and Navy League Hilo Council President David DeLuz, Jr. about the Navy's participation in the popular festival and shared the importance of the Navy's presence in Hawaii.
On the third and final day of the Crommelin's involvement, Keenan, along with his executive officer and command senior chief, led his crew as they marched in the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade through downtown Hilo. Smith, joined by his wife, Kiki, walked beside the Crommelin Sailors while waving and shaking hands with people along the way.
"We are thrilled to be here," said Keenan. "The Navy and Hilo have roots that go back many, many years, and we are proud to represent the Navy at the 2010 Merrie Monarch Festival."
Before leaving Hilo, Crommelin welcomed 14 cadets from Waiakea High School Navy JROTC in Hilo to embark the ship on its return trip to Pearl Harbor.
Chief Boatswain's Mate Scott Fraser, Waiakea High School NJROTC Naval science instructor, thanked the commanding officer and crew of Crommelin for all they have done for the young cadets.
"They made us feel like real shipmates while on board. All the accommodations and tours that they gave us were fantastic," he said. The cadets thoroughly enjoyed the steel-beach picnic and flight deck movie. "I couldn't have asked for a better event," he added.
While in Pearl Harbor, the cadets toured Pacific Aviation Museum, USS Arizona Memorial and World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Air Force Services officials launch Month of the Military Child programs
by Tech. Sgt. Amaani Lyle
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
April 12, 2010 - WASHINGTON -- Air Force Services officials are highlighting a variety and scope of programs in partnership with base agencies for Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family in recognition of military children and their families.
"Stay Connected" is among several Air Force-wide initiatives designed to help parents and children stay in touch during deployed members' time away from home.
The Air Force Stay Connected Deployment Kit contains items such as stuffed animals, pens and disposable cameras.
"The kit provides young people and parents an avenue to keep a connection during the deployed members' time away from home," said Eliza Nesmith, an Air Force family member programs specialist. "The items in the kit come in pairs, so that the young person and parent can have an item that will help them remember each other."
Active duty, Guard and Reserve locations received the kits for assembly and use during Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family. So far, in 2010, deploying families received 8,000 Stay Connected Deployment Kits, with more than 20,000 kits distributed since the program's inception in 2007.
During MOMC, bases throughout the Air Force are hosting special activities at installation libraries, bowling centers, fitness centers, and enlisted and officer clubs. Organizations such as outdoor recreation, security forces and family advocacy are collaborating to promote parades, concerts, book fairs, cookouts, family bingo, block parties and art auctions and more.
The month also includes health and wellness parental education activities such as car seat inspections, pet safety, speech and hearing screenings and brown bag lunch seminars.
"These events combine fun, education and recognition to celebrate military children and continue in our mission of taking care of Airmen and their families," Ms. Nesmith said.
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
April 12, 2010 - WASHINGTON -- Air Force Services officials are highlighting a variety and scope of programs in partnership with base agencies for Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family in recognition of military children and their families.
"Stay Connected" is among several Air Force-wide initiatives designed to help parents and children stay in touch during deployed members' time away from home.
The Air Force Stay Connected Deployment Kit contains items such as stuffed animals, pens and disposable cameras.
"The kit provides young people and parents an avenue to keep a connection during the deployed members' time away from home," said Eliza Nesmith, an Air Force family member programs specialist. "The items in the kit come in pairs, so that the young person and parent can have an item that will help them remember each other."
Active duty, Guard and Reserve locations received the kits for assembly and use during Month of Military Child and Year of the Air Force Family. So far, in 2010, deploying families received 8,000 Stay Connected Deployment Kits, with more than 20,000 kits distributed since the program's inception in 2007.
During MOMC, bases throughout the Air Force are hosting special activities at installation libraries, bowling centers, fitness centers, and enlisted and officer clubs. Organizations such as outdoor recreation, security forces and family advocacy are collaborating to promote parades, concerts, book fairs, cookouts, family bingo, block parties and art auctions and more.
The month also includes health and wellness parental education activities such as car seat inspections, pet safety, speech and hearing screenings and brown bag lunch seminars.
"These events combine fun, education and recognition to celebrate military children and continue in our mission of taking care of Airmen and their families," Ms. Nesmith said.
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