By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 31, 2007 - Military members will receive a 3 percent pay raise effective tomorrow, as President Bush urges Congress to revise some provisions regarding Iraq contained in the fiscal 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. The president authorized the 3 percent pay raise in an executive order. The act includes authorization for a 0.5 percent additional pay raise for U.S. troops, but the president has, for now, elected not to sign the defense authorization bill in its present form while Congress is adjourned, a practice known as a "pocket veto."
On Dec. 28, President Bush announced his displeasure with some language pertaining to Iraq in the current version of the act, according to White House documents released that day. The president said he won't sign off on the bill until it is revised. Congress is now on its holiday recess.
In a statement, the president urged Congress "to ensure that any provisions affecting servicemember pay and bonuses, as well as provisions extending expiring authorities, are retroactive to January 1, 2008."
"The (Defense) Department will work closely with Congress toward the 3.5 percent pay raise effective Jan. 1, as originally envisioned in the bill," Bill Carr, deputy undersecretary of defense for military personnel policy, said in a statement released today.
"Likewise," Carr's statement continued, "we will work to ensure the final bill features no interruption of bonus authorities."
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
American Heroes Press
December 30, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press was been established to assist law enforcement, fire, emergency service and military personnel in marketing and promoting their work.
In 2006, www.police-writers.com a website that lists state and local police officers who have authored books was developed. During 2007, www.military-writers.com a website that lists current, former and retired military personnel who have authored books was developed. In late 2007, www.firefighter-writers.com a website that lists fire and emergency services personnel who have authored books was launched.
Hi Tech Criminal Justice, the organization that developed and maintains all three websites announced the formation of American Heroes Press, an umbrella imprint for law enforcement, fire, emergency services and military personnel who have or anticipate publishing books.
American Heroes Press will assist new authors in navigating the world of publishing and assist new authors in marketing and promoting their work. Moreover, through the their information distribution network and “on ground” events, American Heroes Press will assist established authors in marketing and promoting their work.
Currently, www.police-writers.com, the more established of the three websites lists over 800 state and local law enforcement officials who have published. www.military-writers.com lists nearly 100 servicemembers and www.firefighter-writers.com, the newest addition, contains a single listing.
For more information about American Heroes Press visit the website at www.americanheroespress.com or send an email to editor@police-writers.com.
In 2006, www.police-writers.com a website that lists state and local police officers who have authored books was developed. During 2007, www.military-writers.com a website that lists current, former and retired military personnel who have authored books was developed. In late 2007, www.firefighter-writers.com a website that lists fire and emergency services personnel who have authored books was launched.
Hi Tech Criminal Justice, the organization that developed and maintains all three websites announced the formation of American Heroes Press, an umbrella imprint for law enforcement, fire, emergency services and military personnel who have or anticipate publishing books.
American Heroes Press will assist new authors in navigating the world of publishing and assist new authors in marketing and promoting their work. Moreover, through the their information distribution network and “on ground” events, American Heroes Press will assist established authors in marketing and promoting their work.
Currently, www.police-writers.com, the more established of the three websites lists over 800 state and local law enforcement officials who have published. www.military-writers.com lists nearly 100 servicemembers and www.firefighter-writers.com, the newest addition, contains a single listing.
For more information about American Heroes Press visit the website at www.americanheroespress.com or send an email to editor@police-writers.com.
Conversations with Cops
Editor's Note: This week's is a Colonel with the Texas State Guard
December 30, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) The January 2, 2008 program of Conversations with Cops at the Watering Hole features a nationally recognized expert on stress in law enforcement.
Program Date: January 2, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Policing and Stress
Guest: Dr. James L. Greenstone
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
About the Guest
With 40 years of practice, and almost 25 years as a police officer, James L. Greenstone, Ed.D. has expertise as a police psychologist, a therapist, a teacher, an author, a police officer, a mediator and negotiator, and as a consultant. The field of Crisis Intervention has been his focus. For the better part of his career as a police officer, he has worked extensively in the field of hostage and crisis negotiations. As a mental health professional and consultant, and as a trainer of negotiators, as well as a member of hostage negotiations teams, he is knowledgeable about negotiator training, current practices in this area, dealing with suicidal and barricaded subjects, negotiations techniques, team development, and team and negotiator interactions with police tactical units. He has participated in numerous hostage, barricaded and suicidal situations, and has practical experience in all aspects of hostage and crisis negotiations team functioning.
Additionally, Dr. James L. Greenstone is currently a Colonel with the Medical Service Corps, Texas State Guard, Texas Military Forces. His current assignment is as Chief of Staff of the Medical Brigade. He is a member of the Editorial Board of Military Medicine, the Journal of the Association for Military Surgeons of the United States. Professionally, he is a Behavioral Health Officer. Colonel James Greenstone’s major focus has been in developing, and in providing, care for service members and their families affected by deployments and redeployments to current war zones. He has worked in this capacity since the Vietnam era and is involved with the Department of Defense in providing some of these services, and was recently tasked by the Texas Adjutant General and the Joint State Surgeon to make recommendations concerning psychological care for returning National Guard Soldiers.
Joining the conversation at the half-hour mark is Jennie Valencia a Victim Services Advocate, Pinal County Sheriff's Office (Arizona).
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
December 30, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) The January 2, 2008 program of Conversations with Cops at the Watering Hole features a nationally recognized expert on stress in law enforcement.
Program Date: January 2, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Policing and Stress
Guest: Dr. James L. Greenstone
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
About the Guest
With 40 years of practice, and almost 25 years as a police officer, James L. Greenstone, Ed.D. has expertise as a police psychologist, a therapist, a teacher, an author, a police officer, a mediator and negotiator, and as a consultant. The field of Crisis Intervention has been his focus. For the better part of his career as a police officer, he has worked extensively in the field of hostage and crisis negotiations. As a mental health professional and consultant, and as a trainer of negotiators, as well as a member of hostage negotiations teams, he is knowledgeable about negotiator training, current practices in this area, dealing with suicidal and barricaded subjects, negotiations techniques, team development, and team and negotiator interactions with police tactical units. He has participated in numerous hostage, barricaded and suicidal situations, and has practical experience in all aspects of hostage and crisis negotiations team functioning.
Additionally, Dr. James L. Greenstone is currently a Colonel with the Medical Service Corps, Texas State Guard, Texas Military Forces. His current assignment is as Chief of Staff of the Medical Brigade. He is a member of the Editorial Board of Military Medicine, the Journal of the Association for Military Surgeons of the United States. Professionally, he is a Behavioral Health Officer. Colonel James Greenstone’s major focus has been in developing, and in providing, care for service members and their families affected by deployments and redeployments to current war zones. He has worked in this capacity since the Vietnam era and is involved with the Department of Defense in providing some of these services, and was recently tasked by the Texas Adjutant General and the Joint State Surgeon to make recommendations concerning psychological care for returning National Guard Soldiers.
Joining the conversation at the half-hour mark is Jennie Valencia a Victim Services Advocate, Pinal County Sheriff's Office (Arizona).
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Saturday, December 29, 2007
America Supports You: Partnership Gives Spouses Gift of Education
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 28, 2007 - Military spouses now have a larger scholarship pool to draw from, thanks to a new partnership between the National Military Family Association and the Fisher House Foundation. The collaboration will enable the NMFA to expand its Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program to many more deserving spouses, association officials said.
"With 55 years of combined experience serving military families, both NMFA and Fisher House Foundation are acutely aware of the challenges and hardships facing today's military families," Tanna Schmidli, chairman of the NMFA's board of governors, said. "We are thrilled to be working together on this very important project supporting military spouses."
Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships are awarded to military spouses to obtain professional certification or to attend post-secondary or graduate school. They normally range from $500 to $1,000 and may be used for tuition, fees, and school room and board. Spouses of uniformed servicemembers, including active duty, National Guardsmen, reservists, retirees and survivors of any branch or rank are eligible to apply. Applications will be accepted online at www.nmfa.org/scholarship Jan. 1 through Feb. 29.
"Through our partnership with the Defense Commissary Agency, in seven years, we have been able to provide more than $5.5 million in scholarship grants to more than 3,500 military children," said David A. Coker, president of the Fisher House Foundation. "We are partnering with the NMFA to be able to expand our grants to military spouses."
The National Military Family Association and the Fisher House Foundation are supporters of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
(From a National Military Family Association news release.)
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 28, 2007 - Military spouses now have a larger scholarship pool to draw from, thanks to a new partnership between the National Military Family Association and the Fisher House Foundation. The collaboration will enable the NMFA to expand its Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship Program to many more deserving spouses, association officials said.
"With 55 years of combined experience serving military families, both NMFA and Fisher House Foundation are acutely aware of the challenges and hardships facing today's military families," Tanna Schmidli, chairman of the NMFA's board of governors, said. "We are thrilled to be working together on this very important project supporting military spouses."
Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships are awarded to military spouses to obtain professional certification or to attend post-secondary or graduate school. They normally range from $500 to $1,000 and may be used for tuition, fees, and school room and board. Spouses of uniformed servicemembers, including active duty, National Guardsmen, reservists, retirees and survivors of any branch or rank are eligible to apply. Applications will be accepted online at www.nmfa.org/scholarship Jan. 1 through Feb. 29.
"Through our partnership with the Defense Commissary Agency, in seven years, we have been able to provide more than $5.5 million in scholarship grants to more than 3,500 military children," said David A. Coker, president of the Fisher House Foundation. "We are partnering with the NMFA to be able to expand our grants to military spouses."
The National Military Family Association and the Fisher House Foundation are supporters of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
(From a National Military Family Association news release.)
Friday, December 28, 2007
America Supports You: Foundation Assists Injured EOD Personnel
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 28, 2007 - Following the philosophy that recovering from an injury is easier with family nearby, a Virginia group is helping to make that possible for wounded explosive ordnance disposal technicians from any branch of service. "Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation is dedicated to helping our wounded explosive ordnance disposal technicians and their families in their greatest time of need," said Sherri Beck, foundation president. "We are hoping to relieve some of the financial stress involved when a loved one is injured, (and) we also believe that having family present is an integral part of the healing process."
When it's confirmed that an EOD technician has been wounded, the foundation provides a no-questions-asked grant for $2,500, Beck said. The family can apply for additional assistance if needed.
The foundation also offers assistance for previously injured EOD technicians during the rehabilitation process.
"We understand that unexpected expenses arise and would like families to focus on their loved ones and not worry so much about hotel expenses, airfare, (and) child care," Beck said.
The Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation is a new supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
Through this affiliation, Beck hopes to increase the foundation's visibility with the result of helping more wounded EOD technicians and their families.
"It's a great way to network with other organizations," she added. "If we cannot help, hopefully we can connect applicants to great organizations that can.
"We are excited to be a part of this team," she said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 28, 2007 - Following the philosophy that recovering from an injury is easier with family nearby, a Virginia group is helping to make that possible for wounded explosive ordnance disposal technicians from any branch of service. "Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation is dedicated to helping our wounded explosive ordnance disposal technicians and their families in their greatest time of need," said Sherri Beck, foundation president. "We are hoping to relieve some of the financial stress involved when a loved one is injured, (and) we also believe that having family present is an integral part of the healing process."
When it's confirmed that an EOD technician has been wounded, the foundation provides a no-questions-asked grant for $2,500, Beck said. The family can apply for additional assistance if needed.
The foundation also offers assistance for previously injured EOD technicians during the rehabilitation process.
"We understand that unexpected expenses arise and would like families to focus on their loved ones and not worry so much about hotel expenses, airfare, (and) child care," Beck said.
The Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation is a new supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
Through this affiliation, Beck hopes to increase the foundation's visibility with the result of helping more wounded EOD technicians and their families.
"It's a great way to network with other organizations," she added. "If we cannot help, hopefully we can connect applicants to great organizations that can.
"We are excited to be a part of this team," she said.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
General Delivers Message From Hero's Mother to Marines in Afghanistan
By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 27, 2007 - The assistant commandant of the Marine Corps made a quick stop at Camp Eggers yesterday and passed a message from a modern-day Marine Corps hero's family to Marines serving in and around Afghanistan's capital city. Marine Gen. Robert Magnus was on the move throughout the country, but made it a point to praise leathernecks here and to pass on a message from Debra Dunham, the mother of Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, who received the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroism in Iraq.
"Deb Dunham asked me to bring a simple three-part message," Magnus said.
"First, 'Thank you.'" the second-ranking Marine said. "Now this is a 'Gold Star Mother' saying thank you, so she knows exactly what she's thanking you for." Mothers of American military men and women killed in combat have been referred to as Gold Star Mothers since the early 1900s.
"Second, keep doing what you're doing. Keep doing your mission," Magnus said. "She knows that your mission is fundamentally important.
"I want your family to someday feel as comfortable as they felt on Sept. 10, 2001," he added.
"The third part of the message is, 'Please take care of each other,'" the general said. "That's exactly what Corporal Dunham was doing when he was on his mission."
The general briefly spoke about Dunham's heroic act in saving the lives of his fellow Marines in Iraq when he covered a grenade, which ultimately cost him his life.
Magnus told the Marines that he recognized the difficulty in being away from family during the holidays, but told them that it is good to be with their Marine Corps family as an alternative.
"This is a great time to be a warrior and a Marine," he said. "You are God's gift to your family. ... The Marine Corps is God's gift to the United States ... and to the Afghan people and the Iraqi people."
He also reminded the Marines that it is important for them to consider serving an additional combat tour, or staying in the Marine Corps longer, as well as to encourage young Marines to do the same.
"Your Marine Corps is at war. Your buddies are at war," Magnus said. "You know why you're here now. You're here to help these people win back their neighborhoods and so we don't have another 9/11, and you know that.
"This mission is not over by a long shot, and you know that," the general added.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. serves with Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 27, 2007 - The assistant commandant of the Marine Corps made a quick stop at Camp Eggers yesterday and passed a message from a modern-day Marine Corps hero's family to Marines serving in and around Afghanistan's capital city. Marine Gen. Robert Magnus was on the move throughout the country, but made it a point to praise leathernecks here and to pass on a message from Debra Dunham, the mother of Marine Cpl. Jason L. Dunham, who received the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroism in Iraq.
"Deb Dunham asked me to bring a simple three-part message," Magnus said.
"First, 'Thank you.'" the second-ranking Marine said. "Now this is a 'Gold Star Mother' saying thank you, so she knows exactly what she's thanking you for." Mothers of American military men and women killed in combat have been referred to as Gold Star Mothers since the early 1900s.
"Second, keep doing what you're doing. Keep doing your mission," Magnus said. "She knows that your mission is fundamentally important.
"I want your family to someday feel as comfortable as they felt on Sept. 10, 2001," he added.
"The third part of the message is, 'Please take care of each other,'" the general said. "That's exactly what Corporal Dunham was doing when he was on his mission."
The general briefly spoke about Dunham's heroic act in saving the lives of his fellow Marines in Iraq when he covered a grenade, which ultimately cost him his life.
Magnus told the Marines that he recognized the difficulty in being away from family during the holidays, but told them that it is good to be with their Marine Corps family as an alternative.
"This is a great time to be a warrior and a Marine," he said. "You are God's gift to your family. ... The Marine Corps is God's gift to the United States ... and to the Afghan people and the Iraqi people."
He also reminded the Marines that it is important for them to consider serving an additional combat tour, or staying in the Marine Corps longer, as well as to encourage young Marines to do the same.
"Your Marine Corps is at war. Your buddies are at war," Magnus said. "You know why you're here now. You're here to help these people win back their neighborhoods and so we don't have another 9/11, and you know that.
"This mission is not over by a long shot, and you know that," the general added.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. serves with Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Enhanced Health Information Sharing Supports Care of Wounded Warriors
The Department of Defense (DoD) announced the organization-wide release of enhancements that allow DoD to share electronic health information with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through the Bidirectional Health Information Exchange (BHIE) and the Clinical Data Repository/Health Data Repository (CHDR) interfaces.
“These enhancements demonstrate the unprecedented level of interoperabilty that DoD and VA have been able to achieve with our electronic health record systems, and they contribute significantly to patient safety and continuity of care," said Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for Health Affairs.
With the new enhancements in place, each agency is now able to view the other agency's clinical encounters, medical procedures, and lists of medical problems on shared patients using BHIE. This adds to the pharmacy, allergy, microbiology, and chemistry/hematology data, as well as radiology reports that were made available earlier this year. Additionally, DoD providers are also able to view combat zone data (including inpatient data) from the Theater Medical Data Store.
The CHDR software actively synchronizes data between DoD and VA repositories for patients who receive health services from both agencies. That synchronization significantly increases patient safety by enabling drug-drug and drug-allergy interaction checks with data from DoD, VA, and retail pharmacies. CHDR has been operating on a limited basis since late 2007, but new configuration enhancements have enabled all sites to view data on shared patients.
Providers in both agencies have more information available to support patient care decisions, and the continuity of care is greatly enhanced for the nation's wounded warriors, from the combat zone to medical facilities here at home.
“These enhancements demonstrate the unprecedented level of interoperabilty that DoD and VA have been able to achieve with our electronic health record systems, and they contribute significantly to patient safety and continuity of care," said Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for Health Affairs.
With the new enhancements in place, each agency is now able to view the other agency's clinical encounters, medical procedures, and lists of medical problems on shared patients using BHIE. This adds to the pharmacy, allergy, microbiology, and chemistry/hematology data, as well as radiology reports that were made available earlier this year. Additionally, DoD providers are also able to view combat zone data (including inpatient data) from the Theater Medical Data Store.
The CHDR software actively synchronizes data between DoD and VA repositories for patients who receive health services from both agencies. That synchronization significantly increases patient safety by enabling drug-drug and drug-allergy interaction checks with data from DoD, VA, and retail pharmacies. CHDR has been operating on a limited basis since late 2007, but new configuration enhancements have enabled all sites to view data on shared patients.
Providers in both agencies have more information available to support patient care decisions, and the continuity of care is greatly enhanced for the nation's wounded warriors, from the combat zone to medical facilities here at home.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
America Supports You: Foundation Helps Vets, Families Readjust
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 26, 2007 - Relying on her experience helping her Iraq-veteran son deal with post-traumatic stress disorder, an Oklahoma woman has created a foundation to help a wider military audience with readjustment issues. As Cynthia Collins-Clark, a licensed professional counselor, looked for help for her son, she noticed that information available on his condition was impersonal, complicated or minimized the severity of the problem, she said.
"My fate has been to have a full understanding of mental illness from a professional level and to live 'up-close and personal' with it as a mother of an (Operation Iraqi Freedom) veteran," Collins-Clark said on the Veterans' Families United Foundation's Web site, explaining that her aim is to "share information, support, and encouragement for those who watched their soldier leave to serve our country and return as a different person."
One way Collins-Clark hopes to help families facing situations similar to hers is through a service project the foundation has dubbed "The REST House." REST is an acronym that stands for Readjustment, Environment and Service Transition. She's raising private funds for a test house in Oklahoma City, which would be set up as a live-in environment for a small population of returning psychologically challenged veterans. It would include a phased and heavily researched alternative approach to reintegrating servicemembers back into society, she explained.
"This project ... operates on the premise that prevention and intervention for servicemembers who present with post-traumatic stress disorder and other related mental health problems after they return from active duty, is more honoring, hope-filled and ultimately more cost effective than a lifetime of disability," she said on the Web site. "We believe that many of the serious mental health problems (servicemembers face) could be prevented through an appropriate, tiered readjustment period."
Veterans' Families United Foundation is a new supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We're thrilled to be part of any effort to support our troops," Collins-Clark said, adding she hoped the affiliation would yield increased exposure for the group.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 26, 2007 - Relying on her experience helping her Iraq-veteran son deal with post-traumatic stress disorder, an Oklahoma woman has created a foundation to help a wider military audience with readjustment issues. As Cynthia Collins-Clark, a licensed professional counselor, looked for help for her son, she noticed that information available on his condition was impersonal, complicated or minimized the severity of the problem, she said.
"My fate has been to have a full understanding of mental illness from a professional level and to live 'up-close and personal' with it as a mother of an (Operation Iraqi Freedom) veteran," Collins-Clark said on the Veterans' Families United Foundation's Web site, explaining that her aim is to "share information, support, and encouragement for those who watched their soldier leave to serve our country and return as a different person."
One way Collins-Clark hopes to help families facing situations similar to hers is through a service project the foundation has dubbed "The REST House." REST is an acronym that stands for Readjustment, Environment and Service Transition. She's raising private funds for a test house in Oklahoma City, which would be set up as a live-in environment for a small population of returning psychologically challenged veterans. It would include a phased and heavily researched alternative approach to reintegrating servicemembers back into society, she explained.
"This project ... operates on the premise that prevention and intervention for servicemembers who present with post-traumatic stress disorder and other related mental health problems after they return from active duty, is more honoring, hope-filled and ultimately more cost effective than a lifetime of disability," she said on the Web site. "We believe that many of the serious mental health problems (servicemembers face) could be prevented through an appropriate, tiered readjustment period."
Veterans' Families United Foundation is a new supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We're thrilled to be part of any effort to support our troops," Collins-Clark said, adding she hoped the affiliation would yield increased exposure for the group.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Conversations with Cops
This week’s topic: Law Enforcement Driving Technology; Crime Scenes
Bruce Mather, Chief Technology Officer Lap Belt Cinch, Inc. will be discussing high speed driving technology during the first 15 minutes of the show. Kathie Jo Kadziauskas, AAA Crime Scene LLC, will be discussing the aftermath of crime scenes - everything from decomps to hoarding.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Bruce Mather, Chief Technology Officer Lap Belt Cinch, Inc. will be discussing high speed driving technology during the first 15 minutes of the show. Kathie Jo Kadziauskas, AAA Crime Scene LLC, will be discussing the aftermath of crime scenes - everything from decomps to hoarding.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Over 1700 Cop Books
EDITOR'S NOTE: One of the authors is a former servicemember.
December 23, 2007, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists over 800 state and local police officers who have written books. With the addition of three police officers and their book, the website has grown to include more than 1700 books written by state and local law enforcement officials.
Vonn Auld Kopp is the pseudonym for a police officer whose 32 year law enforcement career included spending the last 23 years in the Houston Police Department homicide division. Vonn Auld Kopp is the author of Homicidal Humor.
According to the book description of Homicidal Humor, “Welcome to the world of urban police legend and lore. If I had firsthand knowledge of the events described herein, I would be hauled before both federal and state investigative grand juries. What I have actually done here is record stories told to me by cops from all over this country. For three decades I have collected confessions, bizarre stories, statements and lies that were told to me.”
At the age of 19, Jim Stewart joined the United States Army. He served in Vietnam from October of 1966 to October of 1968. He then worked as a civilian in Vietnam for the next two years. He served with the 552nd, 300th, 560th, 527th , and"C"CO of the 716th MP BN. In 1992, Jim Stewart joined the Brawley Police Department. He retired in 2002 at the rank of corporal. He is the author of The Angel from Vietnam.
According to the book description of “The Angel from Vietnam, “In 1970, after four years in Vietnam, Jim Stewart left behind his daughter, Phuong. It is estimated that fifty thousand Amerasians were left behind when America pulled out of the country for good in 1973. Jim carried this with him for years after the war. Join him on his journey through personal tragedy as a young boy in Maryland, his often humorous adventures in the Army, and the serious events that took place during his years in Vietnam and afterwards.”
In December 1985, Jon M. Shane Joined the Newark Police Department (New Jersey) and was assigned to the South Police District. During his 20 year law enforcement career, he worked a variety of assignments and worked his way through the ranks of detective, sergeant and lieutenant, eventually reaching the rank of Captain. His last active duty assignment was in the Command Operations Center which provides command rank supervision to the Department during non-business hours. Captain Jon Shane (ret.) has a BA and Masters in criminal justice; and, is currently working on his Doctorate in Criminal Justice. Captain Jon Shane (ret.) is the author of What Every Chief Executive Should Know.
According to the book description of What Every Chief Executive Should Know, “How many officers do we need? Are we efficiently using the ones we have? Is there a relationship between the number of officers we have and our crime rate? What s the status of our patrol car fleet? Are citizens satisfied with our work? What s the cost of our special programs and what are the actual benefits? Big questions that demand solid answers! This book will help you provide them! Easy to understand and designed to help top administrators use actual current information and calculations to make the kinds of informed decisions that make agencies run smoothly, efficiently and economically.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 811 police officers (representing 366 police departments) and their 1722 law enforcement books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
December 23, 2007, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists over 800 state and local police officers who have written books. With the addition of three police officers and their book, the website has grown to include more than 1700 books written by state and local law enforcement officials.
Vonn Auld Kopp is the pseudonym for a police officer whose 32 year law enforcement career included spending the last 23 years in the Houston Police Department homicide division. Vonn Auld Kopp is the author of Homicidal Humor.
According to the book description of Homicidal Humor, “Welcome to the world of urban police legend and lore. If I had firsthand knowledge of the events described herein, I would be hauled before both federal and state investigative grand juries. What I have actually done here is record stories told to me by cops from all over this country. For three decades I have collected confessions, bizarre stories, statements and lies that were told to me.”
At the age of 19, Jim Stewart joined the United States Army. He served in Vietnam from October of 1966 to October of 1968. He then worked as a civilian in Vietnam for the next two years. He served with the 552nd, 300th, 560th, 527th , and"C"CO of the 716th MP BN. In 1992, Jim Stewart joined the Brawley Police Department. He retired in 2002 at the rank of corporal. He is the author of The Angel from Vietnam.
According to the book description of “The Angel from Vietnam, “In 1970, after four years in Vietnam, Jim Stewart left behind his daughter, Phuong. It is estimated that fifty thousand Amerasians were left behind when America pulled out of the country for good in 1973. Jim carried this with him for years after the war. Join him on his journey through personal tragedy as a young boy in Maryland, his often humorous adventures in the Army, and the serious events that took place during his years in Vietnam and afterwards.”
In December 1985, Jon M. Shane Joined the Newark Police Department (New Jersey) and was assigned to the South Police District. During his 20 year law enforcement career, he worked a variety of assignments and worked his way through the ranks of detective, sergeant and lieutenant, eventually reaching the rank of Captain. His last active duty assignment was in the Command Operations Center which provides command rank supervision to the Department during non-business hours. Captain Jon Shane (ret.) has a BA and Masters in criminal justice; and, is currently working on his Doctorate in Criminal Justice. Captain Jon Shane (ret.) is the author of What Every Chief Executive Should Know.
According to the book description of What Every Chief Executive Should Know, “How many officers do we need? Are we efficiently using the ones we have? Is there a relationship between the number of officers we have and our crime rate? What s the status of our patrol car fleet? Are citizens satisfied with our work? What s the cost of our special programs and what are the actual benefits? Big questions that demand solid answers! This book will help you provide them! Easy to understand and designed to help top administrators use actual current information and calculations to make the kinds of informed decisions that make agencies run smoothly, efficiently and economically.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 811 police officers (representing 366 police departments) and their 1722 law enforcement books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Chairman's USO Tour Wraps Up
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - If they made movie starring Robin Williams about this year's Chairman's USO Holiday Tour it could be titled: "Good Morning, Arifjan, CampVirginia, Taqqadum, Ramadi, Tikrit, Balad, Kabul, Kandahar, Manas, Aviano, Rota." The title would be longer but for a dust storm that forced cancellation of a show in Baghdad and snow that forced cancellation another at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wanted to reach as many servicemembers as possible in the trip, which started Dec. 16 and ended yesterday. "This is a tough time to be away from home; we know that," Mullen said. "The USO performers donate their talent and time to make sure our young men and women get a taste of America during the holidays."
Williams could play himself in the movie as he made his fourth trip "downrange" to entertain troops. The Oscar-winning actor/comedian had a different show in every location, always tailored to the place. In Robin's world, the soccer stadium in Balad, Iraq, became the home of the first NASCAR track in Iraq where MRAPs would rule.
Rocker/hip-hop artist/country singer/virtually-all-music-genre entertainer Kid Rock always brought the house down, starting with the first three bars of "Sweet Home, Alabama" and ending with a blues take on what Kid Rock would do if he were the president. It was the Detroit-based performer's third trip to Iraq, but his first to Afghanistan. Young men and women sang along with Rock in his own songs like "Cowboy" and others like Hank Williams Jr.'s "A Country Boy Can Survive."
At Balad -- four days into the tour -- Kid Rock teamed up with Robin "Bluesman" Williams on harp for a hilarious, high-energy -- and unprintable -- finale. It became a staple of the rest of the shows on the trip.
Actor/comedian Lewis Black was making his first USO tour. He is an American original in both his comedic observations and in his delivery. Black expressed his appreciation of the men and women in uniform in a way that they appreciated.
Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong talked about how the trip has given him a new perspective and about what being a hero really means. He said that many people call athletes heroes because they win an event or catch a pass. "That's not heroic. Athletes do that for money or for fame or for a magazine cover," he said in Manas.
He said some people called him a hero during his battle against cancer. "That wasn't heroic, because I just wanted to stay alive," he said.
American servicemembers are real heroes, Armstrong said, because they fight for freedom and liberty, often in appalling conditions. "I know this Christmas I will hug my kids a bit tighter after this experience," he said.
Miss USA Rachel Smith thanked the troops for their sacrifices and probably received about 30 marriage proposals after every show. Smith and all members of the troupe were always gracious and willing to pose for a picture or to autograph a hat or a poster or even a water bottle.
In Kandahar, Irish tenor Ronan Tynan joined the party. Tynan opened the shows with "Go, Lassie, Go." He followed with a pitch-perfect rendition of "God Bless, America" that brought tears to the eyes of many servicemembers far from home.
The trip covered all sorts of ranges. The shows themselves went from rated R in the combat zones to PG at the shows with families in Aviano Air Base, Italy, and here. The weather went from sandstorms in Iraq to snow at Camp Phoenix in Afghanistan. Temperatures went from sweating in the sun at a location in Southwest Asia to the teens in Kyrgyzstan and springlike in Italy.
One aspect didn't change, and that was the appreciation the servicemembers had for the performers and vice versa. "You couldn't see a show this good in the states," said Army Sgt. Vareena Jenkins, an aviation specialist in Balad. "You certainly couldn't get a picture with the stars like this."
"Don't thank me," Lester Black told a young Navy petty officer after a show in Kuwait. "I'm supposed to be thanking you."
"There is no ... place I'd rather be than right ... here, with the best ... men and women on the face of the Earth," Kid Rock said after a show in Iraq.
Mullen spoke to the American Forces Network affiliate at Aviano yesterday. "We've been traveling all over the Middle East in this past week," he said. "What we try to do in these shows is bring a little bit of home around the world.
"It's a difficult time of year to be away from home with the holidays. The goal is to put smiles on their faces and memories and lighten their load. And that certainly happened. These entertainers are really a remarkable group, and I have seen those smiles go from halfway around the world to home, and the spirits have been lifted."
Mullen thanked the United Service Organizations for all the group's work in putting together the show. The organization, founded in 1941 to serve a generation going to war around the world, is serving a new generation with the same mission. "It's not just the holiday show, they make a concerted effort around the world to support the men and women in uniform and their families," the admiral said.
"I'd certainly like to wish all our servicemembers and all our families around the world Merry Christmas and Happy New Year the best of holidays. These are fun times and they are memorable times for all of us, and we wish each and every one of you nothing but the best."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - If they made movie starring Robin Williams about this year's Chairman's USO Holiday Tour it could be titled: "Good Morning, Arifjan, CampVirginia, Taqqadum, Ramadi, Tikrit, Balad, Kabul, Kandahar, Manas, Aviano, Rota." The title would be longer but for a dust storm that forced cancellation of a show in Baghdad and snow that forced cancellation another at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wanted to reach as many servicemembers as possible in the trip, which started Dec. 16 and ended yesterday. "This is a tough time to be away from home; we know that," Mullen said. "The USO performers donate their talent and time to make sure our young men and women get a taste of America during the holidays."
Williams could play himself in the movie as he made his fourth trip "downrange" to entertain troops. The Oscar-winning actor/comedian had a different show in every location, always tailored to the place. In Robin's world, the soccer stadium in Balad, Iraq, became the home of the first NASCAR track in Iraq where MRAPs would rule.
Rocker/hip-hop artist/country singer/virtually-all-music-genre entertainer Kid Rock always brought the house down, starting with the first three bars of "Sweet Home, Alabama" and ending with a blues take on what Kid Rock would do if he were the president. It was the Detroit-based performer's third trip to Iraq, but his first to Afghanistan. Young men and women sang along with Rock in his own songs like "Cowboy" and others like Hank Williams Jr.'s "A Country Boy Can Survive."
At Balad -- four days into the tour -- Kid Rock teamed up with Robin "Bluesman" Williams on harp for a hilarious, high-energy -- and unprintable -- finale. It became a staple of the rest of the shows on the trip.
Actor/comedian Lewis Black was making his first USO tour. He is an American original in both his comedic observations and in his delivery. Black expressed his appreciation of the men and women in uniform in a way that they appreciated.
Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong talked about how the trip has given him a new perspective and about what being a hero really means. He said that many people call athletes heroes because they win an event or catch a pass. "That's not heroic. Athletes do that for money or for fame or for a magazine cover," he said in Manas.
He said some people called him a hero during his battle against cancer. "That wasn't heroic, because I just wanted to stay alive," he said.
American servicemembers are real heroes, Armstrong said, because they fight for freedom and liberty, often in appalling conditions. "I know this Christmas I will hug my kids a bit tighter after this experience," he said.
Miss USA Rachel Smith thanked the troops for their sacrifices and probably received about 30 marriage proposals after every show. Smith and all members of the troupe were always gracious and willing to pose for a picture or to autograph a hat or a poster or even a water bottle.
In Kandahar, Irish tenor Ronan Tynan joined the party. Tynan opened the shows with "Go, Lassie, Go." He followed with a pitch-perfect rendition of "God Bless, America" that brought tears to the eyes of many servicemembers far from home.
The trip covered all sorts of ranges. The shows themselves went from rated R in the combat zones to PG at the shows with families in Aviano Air Base, Italy, and here. The weather went from sandstorms in Iraq to snow at Camp Phoenix in Afghanistan. Temperatures went from sweating in the sun at a location in Southwest Asia to the teens in Kyrgyzstan and springlike in Italy.
One aspect didn't change, and that was the appreciation the servicemembers had for the performers and vice versa. "You couldn't see a show this good in the states," said Army Sgt. Vareena Jenkins, an aviation specialist in Balad. "You certainly couldn't get a picture with the stars like this."
"Don't thank me," Lester Black told a young Navy petty officer after a show in Kuwait. "I'm supposed to be thanking you."
"There is no ... place I'd rather be than right ... here, with the best ... men and women on the face of the Earth," Kid Rock said after a show in Iraq.
Mullen spoke to the American Forces Network affiliate at Aviano yesterday. "We've been traveling all over the Middle East in this past week," he said. "What we try to do in these shows is bring a little bit of home around the world.
"It's a difficult time of year to be away from home with the holidays. The goal is to put smiles on their faces and memories and lighten their load. And that certainly happened. These entertainers are really a remarkable group, and I have seen those smiles go from halfway around the world to home, and the spirits have been lifted."
Mullen thanked the United Service Organizations for all the group's work in putting together the show. The organization, founded in 1941 to serve a generation going to war around the world, is serving a new generation with the same mission. "It's not just the holiday show, they make a concerted effort around the world to support the men and women in uniform and their families," the admiral said.
"I'd certainly like to wish all our servicemembers and all our families around the world Merry Christmas and Happy New Year the best of holidays. These are fun times and they are memorable times for all of us, and we wish each and every one of you nothing but the best."
Bush Thanks Servicemembers, Military Families for Sacrifices
By Melinda L. Larson
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - President Bush used his weekly radio address yesterday to thank America's servicemembers who will spend Christmas far away from their homes and loved ones. "America is blessed to have men and women willing to step forward to defend our freedoms and keep us safe from our enemies. We are thankful for their courage and their dedication to duty," Bush said.
Families of the nation's soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen serve their country too, Bush said.
"America is also blessed to have military families willing to sacrifice for our country. And this Christmas, many will sit down to dinner thinking of their loved ones half a world away," the president said.
Bush also praised the families of wounded warriors who help their loved ones recover from injuries suffered in combat. "Through their encouragement and devotion, they help heal the body and spirit, and they remind our wounded warriors that our nation stands behind them," he said.
For the military families who have lost loved ones in battle, Bush commended them for turning their grief into acts of compassion and love.
"One such inspiring example is the family of Army Spec. Michael Rodriguez, of Knoxville, Tenn. During his deployment in Iraq, Michael often wrote home to his family about the children he met on patrol. In April, Michael was killed by a suicide bomber," Bush said.
Bush added that Rodriguez's family honors his memory by helping to collect school supplies for students at an Iraqi school for girls. "At this time of year, we acknowledge that love and sacrifice can transform our world," he said.
While thousands of military families are apart this holiday season, Bush expressed his hope for all of America's families to tighten their familial bonds.
"As Christmas approaches, Laura and I extend to all Americans our best wishes, and we hope every family is brought closer together during this season of reflection and rejoicing," the president concluded.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - President Bush used his weekly radio address yesterday to thank America's servicemembers who will spend Christmas far away from their homes and loved ones. "America is blessed to have men and women willing to step forward to defend our freedoms and keep us safe from our enemies. We are thankful for their courage and their dedication to duty," Bush said.
Families of the nation's soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen serve their country too, Bush said.
"America is also blessed to have military families willing to sacrifice for our country. And this Christmas, many will sit down to dinner thinking of their loved ones half a world away," the president said.
Bush also praised the families of wounded warriors who help their loved ones recover from injuries suffered in combat. "Through their encouragement and devotion, they help heal the body and spirit, and they remind our wounded warriors that our nation stands behind them," he said.
For the military families who have lost loved ones in battle, Bush commended them for turning their grief into acts of compassion and love.
"One such inspiring example is the family of Army Spec. Michael Rodriguez, of Knoxville, Tenn. During his deployment in Iraq, Michael often wrote home to his family about the children he met on patrol. In April, Michael was killed by a suicide bomber," Bush said.
Bush added that Rodriguez's family honors his memory by helping to collect school supplies for students at an Iraqi school for girls. "At this time of year, we acknowledge that love and sacrifice can transform our world," he said.
While thousands of military families are apart this holiday season, Bush expressed his hope for all of America's families to tighten their familial bonds.
"As Christmas approaches, Laura and I extend to all Americans our best wishes, and we hope every family is brought closer together during this season of reflection and rejoicing," the president concluded.
Country Stars, 'America's Sweethearts' Visit Troops in Afghanistan
By Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr., USMC
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - Military men and women in eastern Kunar province were surprised Dec. 21 by a visit from the Army's top enlisted soldier and several celebrities at the remote Camp Blessing, Afghanistan. Sgt. Major of the Army Kenneth O. Preston is hosting the sixth annual Hope and Freedom USO Tour. As part of the tour, Preston arrived in Kabul late Dec. 20 with four Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders, country music stars Darryl Worley and Keni Thomas, as well as model and TV personality Leann Tweeden. They travelled in helicopters from Kabul to Camp Blessing, in eastern Kunar province.
With a late morning arrival to the camp, the celebrities joined soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines at the dining facility for lunch and conversation before they performed for the troops.
Most troops said they had heard about the sergeant major of the Army and USO visit between a few minutes and a few hours beforehand. Some drove over from forward operating bases several miles away to Camp Blessing.
Upon finding out about the visit, Army Pfc. Chris Floeck, a Waller, Texas, native, said, "Why are you playing with me? Stop messing with me." Floeck is assigned as an infantryman to 2nd Airborne Battalion, 503rd Army Infantry Regiment, deployed to Afghanistan from Vicenza, Italy. "I didn't really believe it until we got in the vehicles and left (for Camp Blessing)," Floeck said as Tweeden sat down at his table.
Daytona Beach, Fla. native, Army Pfc. Ryan D. King said, "They told me (about the visit), and I was doing cartwheels." As Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders walked by he added, "I'm a Texas fan today." King is also an infantryman with 2/503rd.
Preston introduced all the performers as everyone finished their lunches. He said this was the sixth USO tour sponsored by the sergeant major of the Army, and fourth that he has hosted. "I've been very blessed. I've seen all six shows," he told the troops.
Preston said he makes it a point to get the show out to troops at remote locations like Camp Blessing. "Soldiers up here don't get a lot of visitors," he explained.
The show, he said, took about eight months of planning. Most of the performers with this group have toured with the USO before. "I've been told this is the greatest USO show in history, and nobody's told me it's not."
Thomas, an Army veteran and Bronze Star Medal with Valor recipient, performed first, accompanied by a bandsman on an acoustic guitar. They were followed by Worley, also on acoustic guitar with two of his bandmates. They drew the loudest cheers when the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders danced during one of Worley's songs.
"It's nice seeing the cheerleaders," said Dallas Cowboys fan and Fort Smith, Ark., native Marine Cpl. Joel D. Chasteen. Chasteen is an embedded training team mentor and ammunition technician deployed to Afghanistan from Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, in Okinawa, Japan.
After the performances, the guests posed with the military men and women for individual and group pictures and signed autographs. Preston and the USO group left the area later that afternoon to go back to Kabul and hold their second performance of the day at Camp Phoenix.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 23, 2007 - Military men and women in eastern Kunar province were surprised Dec. 21 by a visit from the Army's top enlisted soldier and several celebrities at the remote Camp Blessing, Afghanistan. Sgt. Major of the Army Kenneth O. Preston is hosting the sixth annual Hope and Freedom USO Tour. As part of the tour, Preston arrived in Kabul late Dec. 20 with four Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders, country music stars Darryl Worley and Keni Thomas, as well as model and TV personality Leann Tweeden. They travelled in helicopters from Kabul to Camp Blessing, in eastern Kunar province.
With a late morning arrival to the camp, the celebrities joined soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines at the dining facility for lunch and conversation before they performed for the troops.
Most troops said they had heard about the sergeant major of the Army and USO visit between a few minutes and a few hours beforehand. Some drove over from forward operating bases several miles away to Camp Blessing.
Upon finding out about the visit, Army Pfc. Chris Floeck, a Waller, Texas, native, said, "Why are you playing with me? Stop messing with me." Floeck is assigned as an infantryman to 2nd Airborne Battalion, 503rd Army Infantry Regiment, deployed to Afghanistan from Vicenza, Italy. "I didn't really believe it until we got in the vehicles and left (for Camp Blessing)," Floeck said as Tweeden sat down at his table.
Daytona Beach, Fla. native, Army Pfc. Ryan D. King said, "They told me (about the visit), and I was doing cartwheels." As Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders walked by he added, "I'm a Texas fan today." King is also an infantryman with 2/503rd.
Preston introduced all the performers as everyone finished their lunches. He said this was the sixth USO tour sponsored by the sergeant major of the Army, and fourth that he has hosted. "I've been very blessed. I've seen all six shows," he told the troops.
Preston said he makes it a point to get the show out to troops at remote locations like Camp Blessing. "Soldiers up here don't get a lot of visitors," he explained.
The show, he said, took about eight months of planning. Most of the performers with this group have toured with the USO before. "I've been told this is the greatest USO show in history, and nobody's told me it's not."
Thomas, an Army veteran and Bronze Star Medal with Valor recipient, performed first, accompanied by a bandsman on an acoustic guitar. They were followed by Worley, also on acoustic guitar with two of his bandmates. They drew the loudest cheers when the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders danced during one of Worley's songs.
"It's nice seeing the cheerleaders," said Dallas Cowboys fan and Fort Smith, Ark., native Marine Cpl. Joel D. Chasteen. Chasteen is an embedded training team mentor and ammunition technician deployed to Afghanistan from Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, in Okinawa, Japan.
After the performances, the guests posed with the military men and women for individual and group pictures and signed autographs. Preston and the USO group left the area later that afternoon to go back to Kabul and hold their second performance of the day at Camp Phoenix.
(Marine Staff Sgt. Luis P. Valdespino Jr. is assigned to Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Public Affairs.)
Mail to the Troops - Updated
I came across your recent post mentioning America Supports You, so I thought I’d drop you an e-mail making you aware of some misinformation regarding mail to our troops.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of cards, letters and care packages addressed to “A Recovering American Soldier” (or a variant thereof), are returned to senders. For a variety of reasons—documented on USPS.com, Snopes.com, in this MSNBC.com article, and on Walter Reed’s Web site—a 2001 Defense Department policy forbids the delivery of generically addressed mail to service members.
Instead, the DOD encourages people to send mail to one of two homefront groups associated with the America Supports You program:
Soldiers’ Angels
1792 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91104
Or, for those in the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-area:
We Support You During Your Recovery!
C/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD 20763-0419
Both Soldiers’ Angels and the Red Cross will collect, screen and deliver the well-wishes of those who want to brighten the day of a wounded service member who is recovering away from home this holiday season.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of cards, letters and care packages addressed to “A Recovering American Soldier” (or a variant thereof), are returned to senders. For a variety of reasons—documented on USPS.com, Snopes.com, in this MSNBC.com article, and on Walter Reed’s Web site—a 2001 Defense Department policy forbids the delivery of generically addressed mail to service members.
Instead, the DOD encourages people to send mail to one of two homefront groups associated with the America Supports You program:
Soldiers’ Angels
1792 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91104
Or, for those in the metropolitan Washington, D.C.-area:
We Support You During Your Recovery!
C/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD 20763-0419
Both Soldiers’ Angels and the Red Cross will collect, screen and deliver the well-wishes of those who want to brighten the day of a wounded service member who is recovering away from home this holiday season.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Mail Handlers in Overdrive to Get Christmas Packages to Soldiers
By Spc. Ben Hutto, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - While most soldiers are tucked in their beds for the night, a mail handler with 461st Human Resource Battalion, out of Decatur, Ga., is waiting for the mail to arrive. "We started getting a spike in mail at the end of October," explained Army Spc. Tony Rogers, from Tunnel Hill, Ga. "We went from getting four or five (shipping containers) of mail a week to over 10 a week. I try to be there when the trucks arrive to make sure everything goes smoothly. We don't want any mix-ups that would cause a soldier not to get mail."
The trucks normally arrive from Baghdad between 1:30 and 2 a.m. Four hours later, Rogers arrives to work at 6 a.m. to sort the mail.
"I don't mind," he said. "These packages are a big morale boost for the soldiers. I know how important it is for soldiers to be able to stay in touch with their families back home. It is worth it to see a soldier get a package and get excited. The holidays are tough, and anything I can do to cheer these guys up is important."
Army Pfc. Cassie Durkin, from Whitewater, Wis., a human resource specialist for 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, is a brigade staff mail handler. "It has really been busy here lately," she said. "We used to get mail once or twice a week, but it has been coming in every day lately. People are trying to get their loved ones packages and cards for the holidays, but it's a lot."
Durkin arrives at 6 a.m. with the other mail handlers to sort through each shipping container and separate letters and packages by unit. "We work for three hours straight normally," she said. "There is a lot of detail that goes into it, because we have to read every address and make sure that each package gets put in with the right section."
Durkin explained that her first three hours of the day are just the beginning. "Official mail call starts at 9:30 and lasts until 2 p.m., but we haven't been getting out until 6 or 7 p.m. most days," she said. "We stay as late as we need to. We make sure that everyone has a chance to get their mail. A lot of people have missions that keep them from coming during official hours so we stay and help them out."
It is a demanding job, but Durkin said she enjoys it. "It can be very tiring, but I'm happy to help people out," she said. "I personally try to help out people by hand delivering what I can, especially people that I know have a lot on their plate and can't get down here. Someone else's happiness really makes the job worth it. I really enjoy seeing people get something special from home. It's tough when you see soldiers getting antsy because a package they are expecting hasn't arrived yet. I try and get everyone their packages so they don't have to go through that."
As Christmas gets closer, Durkin said, mail is a critical part of mission effectiveness. "It is the most important thing for the soldiers' morale right now," she said. "Presents, Christmas cards, homemade cookies and pictures are all pieces of home that soldiers out here need. If I can help with that, it's a good thing."
(Army Spc. Ben Hutto is assigned to 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - While most soldiers are tucked in their beds for the night, a mail handler with 461st Human Resource Battalion, out of Decatur, Ga., is waiting for the mail to arrive. "We started getting a spike in mail at the end of October," explained Army Spc. Tony Rogers, from Tunnel Hill, Ga. "We went from getting four or five (shipping containers) of mail a week to over 10 a week. I try to be there when the trucks arrive to make sure everything goes smoothly. We don't want any mix-ups that would cause a soldier not to get mail."
The trucks normally arrive from Baghdad between 1:30 and 2 a.m. Four hours later, Rogers arrives to work at 6 a.m. to sort the mail.
"I don't mind," he said. "These packages are a big morale boost for the soldiers. I know how important it is for soldiers to be able to stay in touch with their families back home. It is worth it to see a soldier get a package and get excited. The holidays are tough, and anything I can do to cheer these guys up is important."
Army Pfc. Cassie Durkin, from Whitewater, Wis., a human resource specialist for 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, is a brigade staff mail handler. "It has really been busy here lately," she said. "We used to get mail once or twice a week, but it has been coming in every day lately. People are trying to get their loved ones packages and cards for the holidays, but it's a lot."
Durkin arrives at 6 a.m. with the other mail handlers to sort through each shipping container and separate letters and packages by unit. "We work for three hours straight normally," she said. "There is a lot of detail that goes into it, because we have to read every address and make sure that each package gets put in with the right section."
Durkin explained that her first three hours of the day are just the beginning. "Official mail call starts at 9:30 and lasts until 2 p.m., but we haven't been getting out until 6 or 7 p.m. most days," she said. "We stay as late as we need to. We make sure that everyone has a chance to get their mail. A lot of people have missions that keep them from coming during official hours so we stay and help them out."
It is a demanding job, but Durkin said she enjoys it. "It can be very tiring, but I'm happy to help people out," she said. "I personally try to help out people by hand delivering what I can, especially people that I know have a lot on their plate and can't get down here. Someone else's happiness really makes the job worth it. I really enjoy seeing people get something special from home. It's tough when you see soldiers getting antsy because a package they are expecting hasn't arrived yet. I try and get everyone their packages so they don't have to go through that."
As Christmas gets closer, Durkin said, mail is a critical part of mission effectiveness. "It is the most important thing for the soldiers' morale right now," she said. "Presents, Christmas cards, homemade cookies and pictures are all pieces of home that soldiers out here need. If I can help with that, it's a good thing."
(Army Spc. Ben Hutto is assigned to 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs.)
America Supports You: Soldier's Legacy Benefits Wounded Troops
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - An Illinois-based group is working to honor one soldier by supporting many other servicemembers. "The Captain Scott Corwin Foundation is dedicated to helping our men and women in uniform, concentrating on those wounded," said Greg Corwin, one of the foundation's executive members, and Scott's father.
The foundation was established to honor Scott Corwin, an active-duty soldier killed, not by foreign terrorists, but while walking home in Savannah, Ga., after a night out with friends.
"We try to tailor our organization after what we think Scott would want, and we do a lot in the field of sports events, as Scott was a huge sports fan," Greg Corwin said.
Corwin said the foundation, which has arranged for wounded servicemembers to attend sporting events, doesn't limit itself to this type of support but finds such events are a great distraction for recovering vets.
"We also grant an annual scholarship in Scott's name at his high school in Dairen, Ill.," he said.
The scholarship is part of a leadership program that will build upon the values of athletes in areas of scholarship and citizenship while encouraging them to give back to the community at large, Corwin said.
The U.S. Military Academy graduate was serving as the construction officer assigned to 92nd Engineer Battalion (Heavy) at Fort Stewart, Ga., on May 29, when he was shot and killed. The case is still unsolved.
The foundation recently became a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We believe being (affiliated) with America Supports You puts us among some of the finest military-support groups in the nation," Corwin said.
Corwin and the foundation also worked with U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania to get the Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act, House Resolution 3884, introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill, which was recently introduced, would make it a federal and capital offense to murder any member of the military, Corwin said.
Current law applies such penalties to those who kill a police officer, even if that police officer is unidentifiable as a police officer, according to the foundation's Web site. For military homicide victims, prosecutors currently must prove the defendant knew the victim was a servicemember.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - An Illinois-based group is working to honor one soldier by supporting many other servicemembers. "The Captain Scott Corwin Foundation is dedicated to helping our men and women in uniform, concentrating on those wounded," said Greg Corwin, one of the foundation's executive members, and Scott's father.
The foundation was established to honor Scott Corwin, an active-duty soldier killed, not by foreign terrorists, but while walking home in Savannah, Ga., after a night out with friends.
"We try to tailor our organization after what we think Scott would want, and we do a lot in the field of sports events, as Scott was a huge sports fan," Greg Corwin said.
Corwin said the foundation, which has arranged for wounded servicemembers to attend sporting events, doesn't limit itself to this type of support but finds such events are a great distraction for recovering vets.
"We also grant an annual scholarship in Scott's name at his high school in Dairen, Ill.," he said.
The scholarship is part of a leadership program that will build upon the values of athletes in areas of scholarship and citizenship while encouraging them to give back to the community at large, Corwin said.
The U.S. Military Academy graduate was serving as the construction officer assigned to 92nd Engineer Battalion (Heavy) at Fort Stewart, Ga., on May 29, when he was shot and killed. The case is still unsolved.
The foundation recently became a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We believe being (affiliated) with America Supports You puts us among some of the finest military-support groups in the nation," Corwin said.
Corwin and the foundation also worked with U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania to get the Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act, House Resolution 3884, introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill, which was recently introduced, would make it a federal and capital offense to murder any member of the military, Corwin said.
Current law applies such penalties to those who kill a police officer, even if that police officer is unidentifiable as a police officer, according to the foundation's Web site. For military homicide victims, prosecutors currently must prove the defendant knew the victim was a servicemember.
Gates: Coalitions Critical in Afghanistan, Other Security Missions
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - After visiting some 50 countries during his first year running the Defense Department, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he's yet to find one that doesn't want to work with the United States. He also spoke of the importance of coalitions in advancing security around the world.
"My view is that the notion that the United States ... is terribly unpopular and nobody wants to work with us is just dead wrong," Gates said during an interview yesterday with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel.
"I have yet to come to visit a single country, including Russia and China, where there isn't an interest in cooperating with us and working together on areas of mutual interest," he said. "So I think this notion that we are in ill odor around the world is certainly not consistent with any of the conversation that I have had anywhere."
Gates called cooperation and coalition building critical to America's defense and world security.
A lifelong student of history, the secretary said he heeds the advice of Gen. Fox Connor, a mentor to two prominent military commanders: Gens. George C. Marshall and Dwight D. Eisenhower. "He had several axioms about a democracy fighting a war," Gates said. "One of those was, 'Never fight alone.'
"We have to be able to act unilaterally if we must," the secretary said. "But it is always better to have allies in a conflict, as well as in peacekeeping endeavors."
Gates pointed to the coalition in Afghanistan, with some 70 nations and organizations playing a part in helping the Afghans build a new democracy and improve their quality of life. "It not only provides a broad array of international support for what you are trying to do," he said, "but they actually bring concrete skills and capabilities to help."
As defense secretary, Gates has worked tirelessly to press the world community, particularly NATO, to increase its support for Afghanistan.
The international contribution varies greatly, he said. "The British are there in substantial force. The Australians are there in force. The Canadians are there in force," he said, noting that Canadian troops have suffered heavy losses proportional to the size of their military and their representation in Afghanistan.
In addition, the Germans have "a very large presence" in northern Afghanistan, and the Dutch recently announced plans to extend their troop commitment for the Afghanistan mission another two years, Gates said.
"On the other hand, there are other allies that have the capacity that are not participating, or they are there and have so many restrictions on the use of their forces that it significantly reduces their contributions," he said.
Gates emphasized the need for countries to reduce these caveats and increase their commitments during the NATO informal ministerial conference in Noordwijk, Netherlands, in October. Just last week, he delivered the same message to defense leaders from countries that provide troops to NATO's Regional Command South in Afghanistan at a meeting in Edinburgh, Scotland.
But the secretary's campaign for stronger coalition efforts expands beyond Afghanistan's and Iraq's borders.
Visiting Bahrain earlier this month, he pressed countries throughout the Persian Gulf to expand multilateral cooperation so they can better protect the region against threats from Iran and other destabilizing forces.
Gates told about 200 senior military leaders from 23 countries at the Manama Dialogue that broader security relationships with closer multilateral ties and cooperation are "an absolute necessity" in light of threats the region faces. Such a framework could help pave the way for a regional air and missile defense system that would provide a regional defense umbrella and deter a missile attack, he said.
"They have never done this together," Gates said during yesterday's interview. "We've done it bilaterally, but it would be much more efficient and much more effective if a group of countries was working together on it.
"So a fair amount of my travel has been, 'How do we enlist more countries in working with us on this?'" he said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - After visiting some 50 countries during his first year running the Defense Department, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said he's yet to find one that doesn't want to work with the United States. He also spoke of the importance of coalitions in advancing security around the world.
"My view is that the notion that the United States ... is terribly unpopular and nobody wants to work with us is just dead wrong," Gates said during an interview yesterday with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel.
"I have yet to come to visit a single country, including Russia and China, where there isn't an interest in cooperating with us and working together on areas of mutual interest," he said. "So I think this notion that we are in ill odor around the world is certainly not consistent with any of the conversation that I have had anywhere."
Gates called cooperation and coalition building critical to America's defense and world security.
A lifelong student of history, the secretary said he heeds the advice of Gen. Fox Connor, a mentor to two prominent military commanders: Gens. George C. Marshall and Dwight D. Eisenhower. "He had several axioms about a democracy fighting a war," Gates said. "One of those was, 'Never fight alone.'
"We have to be able to act unilaterally if we must," the secretary said. "But it is always better to have allies in a conflict, as well as in peacekeeping endeavors."
Gates pointed to the coalition in Afghanistan, with some 70 nations and organizations playing a part in helping the Afghans build a new democracy and improve their quality of life. "It not only provides a broad array of international support for what you are trying to do," he said, "but they actually bring concrete skills and capabilities to help."
As defense secretary, Gates has worked tirelessly to press the world community, particularly NATO, to increase its support for Afghanistan.
The international contribution varies greatly, he said. "The British are there in substantial force. The Australians are there in force. The Canadians are there in force," he said, noting that Canadian troops have suffered heavy losses proportional to the size of their military and their representation in Afghanistan.
In addition, the Germans have "a very large presence" in northern Afghanistan, and the Dutch recently announced plans to extend their troop commitment for the Afghanistan mission another two years, Gates said.
"On the other hand, there are other allies that have the capacity that are not participating, or they are there and have so many restrictions on the use of their forces that it significantly reduces their contributions," he said.
Gates emphasized the need for countries to reduce these caveats and increase their commitments during the NATO informal ministerial conference in Noordwijk, Netherlands, in October. Just last week, he delivered the same message to defense leaders from countries that provide troops to NATO's Regional Command South in Afghanistan at a meeting in Edinburgh, Scotland.
But the secretary's campaign for stronger coalition efforts expands beyond Afghanistan's and Iraq's borders.
Visiting Bahrain earlier this month, he pressed countries throughout the Persian Gulf to expand multilateral cooperation so they can better protect the region against threats from Iran and other destabilizing forces.
Gates told about 200 senior military leaders from 23 countries at the Manama Dialogue that broader security relationships with closer multilateral ties and cooperation are "an absolute necessity" in light of threats the region faces. Such a framework could help pave the way for a regional air and missile defense system that would provide a regional defense umbrella and deter a missile attack, he said.
"They have never done this together," Gates said during yesterday's interview. "We've done it bilaterally, but it would be much more efficient and much more effective if a group of countries was working together on it.
"So a fair amount of my travel has been, 'How do we enlist more countries in working with us on this?'" he said.
NORAD Set to Track Santa; Commander Thanks Troops, Families
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Members of North American Aerospace Defense Command are gearing up to track Santa Claus' travels on Christmas Eve, providing detailed information about his whereabouts on the command's Web site and through a toll-free telephone line. Air Force Gen. Victor E. Renuart Jr., commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, delivered a tongue-in-cheek assessment of the Santa-tracking mission.
He reported a "consistent phenomenon" the command has tracked for decades. "Sometime around the 24th of December, this individual begins to take flight, and he makes a very rapid trip around the globe," he said.
When Continental Air Defense Command, NORAD's predecessor, first took notice of this flight in the 1950s, "there was a great concern, because we didn't know if this was a threat to our country and to free nations around the world," Renuart said. "What we found is, this gentleman brings good everywhere he goes."
NORAD's system to track this person has evolved over the years, refined through the use of radar systems, satellite sensors and communications and interactive information technology, he said. "So we can precisely, at any time along his flight, identify his location, ensure he has the proper protection and ... he can complete his mission on time."
The NORAD elves are looking forward to tracking Santa again this year, Renuart said. From 2 a.m. Mountain Time Dec. 24 through 2 a.m. Mountain Time Christmas Day, they'll track his progress, posting details on the command's Web site at www.noradsanta.org.
"At any time in this process, they can find out where Santa is and when he should be into their area," Renuart said.
In addition, children can call the NORAD hotline at 877-HI-NORAD toll-free to check up on Santa. Translators we be on hand to report on his travels in six different languages, Renuart said. They'll also remind children that Santa can't come to their houses if they're awake, he said.
"It's an amazing planning process Santa goes through to arrive in each part of the world after the children have gone to sleep to ensure that he can review whether they have been good or bad, naughty or nice, and reward them appropriately," Renuart said. "So it's a mission we take very seriously, and we are looking forward to it."
The Santa-tracking mission dates back to 1955, after an ad in a local newspaper printed an incorrect number for Santa Claus that sent callers to Continental Air Defense Command's operations center. Its commander, Col. Harry Shoup, started the tradition of tracking Santa, a mission NORAD assumed in 1958.
Last year, the command's Santa-tracking Web site received more than 941 million page views from 210 countries and territories, NORAD officials reported. In addition, 756 volunteers answered more than 65,000 calls to the toll-free phone line.
While enjoying the levity of the mission, Renuart turned serious to extend thoughts and prayers to young men and women deployed in harm's way around the world and to their families who will spend the holidays without their loved ones.
"This is a difficult time in our country's history as we continue to struggle against this rash of violent extremism around the world," he said. "We've got great members of our military who have given selflessly of themselves. But importantly, their families have given selflessly as well, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them."
"We wish them all the best in this holiday season," he said. "We want them to be safe, and we want them to return home safely just as soon as this mission allows."
Meanwhile, Renuart assured that NORAD and NORTHCOM will continue carrying out their mission to ensure troops their families are protected and that, if disaster strikes in their communities, it's ready to respond.
"We take this job very seriously, and we are committed to make sure that when they arrive home safely, they come back to a safe home, as well," he said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Members of North American Aerospace Defense Command are gearing up to track Santa Claus' travels on Christmas Eve, providing detailed information about his whereabouts on the command's Web site and through a toll-free telephone line. Air Force Gen. Victor E. Renuart Jr., commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, delivered a tongue-in-cheek assessment of the Santa-tracking mission.
He reported a "consistent phenomenon" the command has tracked for decades. "Sometime around the 24th of December, this individual begins to take flight, and he makes a very rapid trip around the globe," he said.
When Continental Air Defense Command, NORAD's predecessor, first took notice of this flight in the 1950s, "there was a great concern, because we didn't know if this was a threat to our country and to free nations around the world," Renuart said. "What we found is, this gentleman brings good everywhere he goes."
NORAD's system to track this person has evolved over the years, refined through the use of radar systems, satellite sensors and communications and interactive information technology, he said. "So we can precisely, at any time along his flight, identify his location, ensure he has the proper protection and ... he can complete his mission on time."
The NORAD elves are looking forward to tracking Santa again this year, Renuart said. From 2 a.m. Mountain Time Dec. 24 through 2 a.m. Mountain Time Christmas Day, they'll track his progress, posting details on the command's Web site at www.noradsanta.org.
"At any time in this process, they can find out where Santa is and when he should be into their area," Renuart said.
In addition, children can call the NORAD hotline at 877-HI-NORAD toll-free to check up on Santa. Translators we be on hand to report on his travels in six different languages, Renuart said. They'll also remind children that Santa can't come to their houses if they're awake, he said.
"It's an amazing planning process Santa goes through to arrive in each part of the world after the children have gone to sleep to ensure that he can review whether they have been good or bad, naughty or nice, and reward them appropriately," Renuart said. "So it's a mission we take very seriously, and we are looking forward to it."
The Santa-tracking mission dates back to 1955, after an ad in a local newspaper printed an incorrect number for Santa Claus that sent callers to Continental Air Defense Command's operations center. Its commander, Col. Harry Shoup, started the tradition of tracking Santa, a mission NORAD assumed in 1958.
Last year, the command's Santa-tracking Web site received more than 941 million page views from 210 countries and territories, NORAD officials reported. In addition, 756 volunteers answered more than 65,000 calls to the toll-free phone line.
While enjoying the levity of the mission, Renuart turned serious to extend thoughts and prayers to young men and women deployed in harm's way around the world and to their families who will spend the holidays without their loved ones.
"This is a difficult time in our country's history as we continue to struggle against this rash of violent extremism around the world," he said. "We've got great members of our military who have given selflessly of themselves. But importantly, their families have given selflessly as well, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them."
"We wish them all the best in this holiday season," he said. "We want them to be safe, and we want them to return home safely just as soon as this mission allows."
Meanwhile, Renuart assured that NORAD and NORTHCOM will continue carrying out their mission to ensure troops their families are protected and that, if disaster strikes in their communities, it's ready to respond.
"We take this job very seriously, and we are committed to make sure that when they arrive home safely, they come back to a safe home, as well," he said.
England Meets, Thanks 'Why We Serve' Participants
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England today thanked a group of servicemembers who have completed nationwide speaking tours as part of the "Why We Serve" public-outreach program. Since the draft ended in 1973, the average American has had diminishing experience with members of the military, England told the servicemembers in his Pentagon office.
With U.S. troops deployed worldwide in support of the war on terrorism, it is especially vital that Why We Serve participants "go out and make that contact" with the American people, he said.
"This is the best military we've ever had. The all-volunteer force is terrific," said England, as he thanked the servicemembers and provided each with his personal coin.
"At the end of the day, we rely on the support of the American people," observed England, who also wished the servicemembers a happy holiday season.
"Thanks for representing America and representing your services. You did a great job for us," he said.
Why We Serve participant Marine 1st Lt. Tabitha B. White, an Iraq veteran, said she enjoyed meeting England and telling her story to the public.
"Meeting the deputy defense secretary is a wonderful experience," White said. "The American public wants to hear our stories, and they are so supportive."
White, who returned from a tour in Iraq in August, said audiences often asked her if she had any interaction with Iraqi citizens. "I did get to meet an Iraqi civilian while I was over there. She was volunteering at the hospital. She was just grateful to have that opportunity to volunteer and help her country," White recalled.
White also remembered when formerly violent areas became pacified during her eight-month tour of duty in northeastern Iraq. "It was really violent and hostile. And, now, they are opening hospitals and schools, and all of their sheikhs are meeting together to try to figure out a better way to run their country," White recalled.
Another Iraq veteran and Why We Serve participant, recently promoted Marine Sgt. Sean M. Henry, said he was pleased to meet England and is proud of his participation in the program.
"It's outstanding, what this program is doing, getting out and interacting with the American people. That's priceless," Henry emphasized.
Other members of the fifth group of Why We Serve participants include: Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Bruce Binda, Army Maj. Cedric L. Burden, Marine Staff Sgt. John Costa, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mark A. DeCorte, Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Sivenson Guerrier, Army Sgt. Jose J. Munoz, and Air Force Maj. Marcia A. Potter. Munoz wasn't able to meet England today because of his pending deployment to Afghanistan.
Then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace started the Why We Serve program in 2006. The program is conducted in quarterly segments and participants perform 90-day duty tours talking to schools, veterans organizations and business groups across the United States.
The sixth Why We Serve group of servicemembers assembles in January, and it will be the largest group since the program began, said Marine Maj. Chris Devine, the Why We Serve program director. The new group, Devine said, will consist of 12 servicemembers representing the military service branches.
"All of the Why We Serve participants have done a great job," Devine said.
Why We Serve continues to improve, Devine said. The program, he noted, is "one more way for us to provide information to the American people about what it is these young men and women are doing in the global war on terrorism."
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England today thanked a group of servicemembers who have completed nationwide speaking tours as part of the "Why We Serve" public-outreach program. Since the draft ended in 1973, the average American has had diminishing experience with members of the military, England told the servicemembers in his Pentagon office.
With U.S. troops deployed worldwide in support of the war on terrorism, it is especially vital that Why We Serve participants "go out and make that contact" with the American people, he said.
"This is the best military we've ever had. The all-volunteer force is terrific," said England, as he thanked the servicemembers and provided each with his personal coin.
"At the end of the day, we rely on the support of the American people," observed England, who also wished the servicemembers a happy holiday season.
"Thanks for representing America and representing your services. You did a great job for us," he said.
Why We Serve participant Marine 1st Lt. Tabitha B. White, an Iraq veteran, said she enjoyed meeting England and telling her story to the public.
"Meeting the deputy defense secretary is a wonderful experience," White said. "The American public wants to hear our stories, and they are so supportive."
White, who returned from a tour in Iraq in August, said audiences often asked her if she had any interaction with Iraqi citizens. "I did get to meet an Iraqi civilian while I was over there. She was volunteering at the hospital. She was just grateful to have that opportunity to volunteer and help her country," White recalled.
White also remembered when formerly violent areas became pacified during her eight-month tour of duty in northeastern Iraq. "It was really violent and hostile. And, now, they are opening hospitals and schools, and all of their sheikhs are meeting together to try to figure out a better way to run their country," White recalled.
Another Iraq veteran and Why We Serve participant, recently promoted Marine Sgt. Sean M. Henry, said he was pleased to meet England and is proud of his participation in the program.
"It's outstanding, what this program is doing, getting out and interacting with the American people. That's priceless," Henry emphasized.
Other members of the fifth group of Why We Serve participants include: Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Bruce Binda, Army Maj. Cedric L. Burden, Marine Staff Sgt. John Costa, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mark A. DeCorte, Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Sivenson Guerrier, Army Sgt. Jose J. Munoz, and Air Force Maj. Marcia A. Potter. Munoz wasn't able to meet England today because of his pending deployment to Afghanistan.
Then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace started the Why We Serve program in 2006. The program is conducted in quarterly segments and participants perform 90-day duty tours talking to schools, veterans organizations and business groups across the United States.
The sixth Why We Serve group of servicemembers assembles in January, and it will be the largest group since the program began, said Marine Maj. Chris Devine, the Why We Serve program director. The new group, Devine said, will consist of 12 servicemembers representing the military service branches.
"All of the Why We Serve participants have done a great job," Devine said.
Why We Serve continues to improve, Devine said. The program, he noted, is "one more way for us to provide information to the American people about what it is these young men and women are doing in the global war on terrorism."
President Thanks Servicemembers for Sacrifices
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - In his annual holiday message, President Bush thanked servicemembers and their families for their sacrifices. "Our nation is thankful for the many sacrifices you and your families make every day. During the holidays and throughout the coming year, we ask the Almighty to bestow His protection and care on you and your loved ones. We pray for your safety and for liberty, justice, and peace on Earth," Bush's message, released today, reads.
He also said the nation owes servicemembers and their families a debt of gratitude for their service.
"In this season of giving, we remember our duty to others, and we see that sense of duty fulfilled in the men and women who wear our nation's uniform. Our country owes you a debt of gratitude for your courage and resolve to serve the cause of peace," Bush said. "Americans are proud of your dedicated service, and I am proud to be the commander in chief of the greatest force for freedom in the history of the world."
The president spent part of yesterday visiting troops at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. He visited injured soldiers in their wards, passing along his well wishes and presenting some with Purple Heart Medals. He said this month has the lowest number of patients admitted since 2002.
"Every time I come to a facility like this, I count my blessings, and one of the great blessings is to be the president of a country that produces such brave men and women," Bush said during his visit.
On Dec. 19, the president also visited servicemembers at the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.
Dec. 21, 2007 - In his annual holiday message, President Bush thanked servicemembers and their families for their sacrifices. "Our nation is thankful for the many sacrifices you and your families make every day. During the holidays and throughout the coming year, we ask the Almighty to bestow His protection and care on you and your loved ones. We pray for your safety and for liberty, justice, and peace on Earth," Bush's message, released today, reads.
He also said the nation owes servicemembers and their families a debt of gratitude for their service.
"In this season of giving, we remember our duty to others, and we see that sense of duty fulfilled in the men and women who wear our nation's uniform. Our country owes you a debt of gratitude for your courage and resolve to serve the cause of peace," Bush said. "Americans are proud of your dedicated service, and I am proud to be the commander in chief of the greatest force for freedom in the history of the world."
The president spent part of yesterday visiting troops at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. He visited injured soldiers in their wards, passing along his well wishes and presenting some with Purple Heart Medals. He said this month has the lowest number of patients admitted since 2002.
"Every time I come to a facility like this, I count my blessings, and one of the great blessings is to be the president of a country that produces such brave men and women," Bush said during his visit.
On Dec. 19, the president also visited servicemembers at the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.
Airmen, Sailors Complete Interservice Air Combat Training
By Master Sgt. Sean P. Houlihan, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Airmen from the 8th Fighter Wing "Wolf Pack" returned here yesterday after completing an 11-day air combat training exercise with sailors flying F-18 Hornets at Atsugi Naval Air Facility, Japan. Forty airmen from 8th Operations Group, 8th Maintenance Group and 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron, along with five F-16s, deployed to the naval installation Dec. 9 to 20.
"Air combat training between the services exposes both Navy and Air Force pilots to different air-to-air tactics and aircraft capabilities," said Air Force Maj. Michael Boger, 8th Operations Support Squadron director of operations and the training exercise commander. "This type of training is critically important to maintain not only Wolf Pack pilots and maintainers, but Navy fighter pilots' combat skills by engaging in realistic air-to-air combat training against different types of high-performance fighter aircraft."
During the exercise, pilots received training on different basic fighter maneuvers as the two different airframes went head to head within each training scenario. Training was stepped up during differential air combat tactics when four F-16 pilots flew against up to six F-18 pilots. In another scenario, a combined flight of two Navy and two Air Force jets flew against another combined flight of two Navy and two Air Force jets.
Boger said these scenarios, along with flying from Japan, helped trained Wolf Pack aviators to varied aerial situations allowing them to learn adaptation and flexibility. He added that many of the maneuvers used during training at Kunsan against Wolf Pack F-16's were validated against the Hornets with slightly different cues for accomplishing certain maneuvers.
Pilots flying the missions were not the only airmen who received valuable training during the exercise.
Maintenance airmen also received good training during launch, recovery and any maintenance issues that arose during the exercise, Air Force Capt. Katie Jett, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Unit officer in charge, said.
She said deploying to a Navy base compared to an Air Force base means there is different equipment to service and troubleshoot. Those differences didn't affect maintenance, but will be beneficial for future training exercises, she said.
"Since we've experienced what a naval base has to offer, we'll be able to better coordinate prior to arrival what we can count on the Navy to provide and also what exactly to bring for future training exercises to Japan," she said. "This has been a beneficial training exercise for both operators and the maintainers that would be great to have as a reoccurring event for the 35th as a unit."
Another unit that benefited from the training was Carrier Air Wing 5, based at Atsugi. The unit, with its six squadrons and five different airframes, easily was able to integrate and train with the 35th Fighter Squadron pilots through the joint air-to-air training.
"Joint air-to-air combat training is extremely important in today's military as joint operations become more and more essential," Navy Lt. Cdr. Jason Lane, assistant operations officer for Carrier Air Wing 5, said. "In a dynamic air-to-air training environment, face-to-face planning, briefing and debriefing are crucial to the training."
(Air Force Master Sgt. Sean P. Houlihan is assigned to 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Airmen from the 8th Fighter Wing "Wolf Pack" returned here yesterday after completing an 11-day air combat training exercise with sailors flying F-18 Hornets at Atsugi Naval Air Facility, Japan. Forty airmen from 8th Operations Group, 8th Maintenance Group and 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron, along with five F-16s, deployed to the naval installation Dec. 9 to 20.
"Air combat training between the services exposes both Navy and Air Force pilots to different air-to-air tactics and aircraft capabilities," said Air Force Maj. Michael Boger, 8th Operations Support Squadron director of operations and the training exercise commander. "This type of training is critically important to maintain not only Wolf Pack pilots and maintainers, but Navy fighter pilots' combat skills by engaging in realistic air-to-air combat training against different types of high-performance fighter aircraft."
During the exercise, pilots received training on different basic fighter maneuvers as the two different airframes went head to head within each training scenario. Training was stepped up during differential air combat tactics when four F-16 pilots flew against up to six F-18 pilots. In another scenario, a combined flight of two Navy and two Air Force jets flew against another combined flight of two Navy and two Air Force jets.
Boger said these scenarios, along with flying from Japan, helped trained Wolf Pack aviators to varied aerial situations allowing them to learn adaptation and flexibility. He added that many of the maneuvers used during training at Kunsan against Wolf Pack F-16's were validated against the Hornets with slightly different cues for accomplishing certain maneuvers.
Pilots flying the missions were not the only airmen who received valuable training during the exercise.
Maintenance airmen also received good training during launch, recovery and any maintenance issues that arose during the exercise, Air Force Capt. Katie Jett, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Unit officer in charge, said.
She said deploying to a Navy base compared to an Air Force base means there is different equipment to service and troubleshoot. Those differences didn't affect maintenance, but will be beneficial for future training exercises, she said.
"Since we've experienced what a naval base has to offer, we'll be able to better coordinate prior to arrival what we can count on the Navy to provide and also what exactly to bring for future training exercises to Japan," she said. "This has been a beneficial training exercise for both operators and the maintainers that would be great to have as a reoccurring event for the 35th as a unit."
Another unit that benefited from the training was Carrier Air Wing 5, based at Atsugi. The unit, with its six squadrons and five different airframes, easily was able to integrate and train with the 35th Fighter Squadron pilots through the joint air-to-air training.
"Joint air-to-air combat training is extremely important in today's military as joint operations become more and more essential," Navy Lt. Cdr. Jason Lane, assistant operations officer for Carrier Air Wing 5, said. "In a dynamic air-to-air training environment, face-to-face planning, briefing and debriefing are crucial to the training."
(Air Force Master Sgt. Sean P. Houlihan is assigned to 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs.)
Battle of the Bulge Memories, Emotions Live On
By Ray Johnson
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Standing next to the killing field where he once found himself face-down in the snow surrounded by the dead and dying, Ted Paluch said his return wasn't as emotional as it once was, especially having visited three other times. His resiliency and composure quickly crumbled, though, when asked to honor 84 U.S. soldiers murdered near Malmedy, Belgium, in World War II.
As the 85-year-old from Philadelphia gingerly stepped on the frozen turf -- the ground as hard as it was 63 years ago when he served with 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion -- Paluch's eyes brimmed with tears. Clutching a wreath and almost whispering to himself, he said: "One of my guys was found here, in this exact spot. I wish he was standing next to me now instead."
Similar sentiments were heard 50 miles away in Bastogne, a Belgian city forever linked with the massive World War II campaign officially tagged Battle of Ardennes, but better known as the Battle of the Bulge.
Invited to the dedication of the Baugnex 44 Historical Center, a museum that recounts American prisoners of war being executed in 1944 by a German SS Panzer unit, Paluch was one of several hundred veterans and current soldiers who commemorated Battle of the Bulge ceremonies Dec. 15-17.
The 30th Bastogne Historic Walk, which paid tribute to 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, kicked off three days of remembrance. Roughly 3,000 participants, including 900 U.S. servicemembers, marched along the outskirts of Bastogne and through the villages of Hemroulle, Champs and Longchamps, where the "Five-Oh-Deuce" fought and bled.
Following a narrow road reduced to muck in places, marchers went past grasslands and thick forests. It is here where great tank battles took place in the open, while hand-to-hand combat spilled from one foxhole to another.
Carl Dalke, 82, who served with the 101st Airborne Division's 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, recalls the first 24 hours of the fight as being the toughest, with his unit surrounded and trapped in arctic-like conditions. He labeled it "gut wrenching," especially when his best friend died -- one of 19,000 Americans killed, along with another almost 60,000 injured.
"But at no time did we ever think that we would lose, ... even though we were outnumbered seven to one," said Dalke, outfitted in 1940s-era military clothing and sporting several rows of medals, including a Bronze Star.
At a small memorial hugging the road, Dalke, like Paluch, laid a wreath to personally recognize those who didn't survive the costly monthlong struggle.
Along the walk, marchers passed by several such memorials and realistic scenes of uniformed reenactors digging foxholes, stealing through the woods, manning crossroads and driving authentic vehicles of that era. Adding to the setting were 22 parachutists jumping from a C-47 Dakota transporter.
Later in the day, a formal wreath-laying ceremony was held in Bastogne's McAuliffe Square, named after Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, who famously replied "Nuts!" when asked to surrender by the Germans. Prior to the ceremony, the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Honor Guard led a parade formed by dignitaries, beret-wearing veterans, Belgian troops, and soldiers from USAG Benelux and USAG Brussels. Also included in the mix were school-age children carrying flags of every U.S. state.
The procession, with a sidewalk-lined crowd tagging along, made its way from downtown to a small park and monument dedicated to Gen. George S. Patton, commander of the 3rd Army, which relieved besieged 101st Airborne Division forces. Afterward, the parade returned to McAuliffe Square, where U.S. and Belgian officials, military leaders and Battle of the Bulge survivors remembered those who fell.
Army Col. James Drago, commander of USAG Benelux, joined Marcel D'Haese, of the Belgian 5th Fusiliers, which fought alongside the Allies, in presenting a wreath. Drago, a veteran of operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, called the moment "truly amazing."
"The amount of energy that the Bastogne community expends to show their heartfelt appreciation each year reminds us all of the awesome sacrifices our soldiers made in that cold winter of 1944-1945," the colonel said. "Knowing that people from around the world participate in such large numbers annually confirms just how important these sacrifices were."
(Ray Johnson works for the U.S. Army Installation Management Command, Europe Region, Public Affairs Office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Standing next to the killing field where he once found himself face-down in the snow surrounded by the dead and dying, Ted Paluch said his return wasn't as emotional as it once was, especially having visited three other times. His resiliency and composure quickly crumbled, though, when asked to honor 84 U.S. soldiers murdered near Malmedy, Belgium, in World War II.
As the 85-year-old from Philadelphia gingerly stepped on the frozen turf -- the ground as hard as it was 63 years ago when he served with 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion -- Paluch's eyes brimmed with tears. Clutching a wreath and almost whispering to himself, he said: "One of my guys was found here, in this exact spot. I wish he was standing next to me now instead."
Similar sentiments were heard 50 miles away in Bastogne, a Belgian city forever linked with the massive World War II campaign officially tagged Battle of Ardennes, but better known as the Battle of the Bulge.
Invited to the dedication of the Baugnex 44 Historical Center, a museum that recounts American prisoners of war being executed in 1944 by a German SS Panzer unit, Paluch was one of several hundred veterans and current soldiers who commemorated Battle of the Bulge ceremonies Dec. 15-17.
The 30th Bastogne Historic Walk, which paid tribute to 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment, kicked off three days of remembrance. Roughly 3,000 participants, including 900 U.S. servicemembers, marched along the outskirts of Bastogne and through the villages of Hemroulle, Champs and Longchamps, where the "Five-Oh-Deuce" fought and bled.
Following a narrow road reduced to muck in places, marchers went past grasslands and thick forests. It is here where great tank battles took place in the open, while hand-to-hand combat spilled from one foxhole to another.
Carl Dalke, 82, who served with the 101st Airborne Division's 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, recalls the first 24 hours of the fight as being the toughest, with his unit surrounded and trapped in arctic-like conditions. He labeled it "gut wrenching," especially when his best friend died -- one of 19,000 Americans killed, along with another almost 60,000 injured.
"But at no time did we ever think that we would lose, ... even though we were outnumbered seven to one," said Dalke, outfitted in 1940s-era military clothing and sporting several rows of medals, including a Bronze Star.
At a small memorial hugging the road, Dalke, like Paluch, laid a wreath to personally recognize those who didn't survive the costly monthlong struggle.
Along the walk, marchers passed by several such memorials and realistic scenes of uniformed reenactors digging foxholes, stealing through the woods, manning crossroads and driving authentic vehicles of that era. Adding to the setting were 22 parachutists jumping from a C-47 Dakota transporter.
Later in the day, a formal wreath-laying ceremony was held in Bastogne's McAuliffe Square, named after Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, who famously replied "Nuts!" when asked to surrender by the Germans. Prior to the ceremony, the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Honor Guard led a parade formed by dignitaries, beret-wearing veterans, Belgian troops, and soldiers from USAG Benelux and USAG Brussels. Also included in the mix were school-age children carrying flags of every U.S. state.
The procession, with a sidewalk-lined crowd tagging along, made its way from downtown to a small park and monument dedicated to Gen. George S. Patton, commander of the 3rd Army, which relieved besieged 101st Airborne Division forces. Afterward, the parade returned to McAuliffe Square, where U.S. and Belgian officials, military leaders and Battle of the Bulge survivors remembered those who fell.
Army Col. James Drago, commander of USAG Benelux, joined Marcel D'Haese, of the Belgian 5th Fusiliers, which fought alongside the Allies, in presenting a wreath. Drago, a veteran of operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, called the moment "truly amazing."
"The amount of energy that the Bastogne community expends to show their heartfelt appreciation each year reminds us all of the awesome sacrifices our soldiers made in that cold winter of 1944-1945," the colonel said. "Knowing that people from around the world participate in such large numbers annually confirms just how important these sacrifices were."
(Ray Johnson works for the U.S. Army Installation Management Command, Europe Region, Public Affairs Office.)
No Furloughs for Christmas, Gates Says
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - The $70 billion in emergency funds approved this week by Congress have sidestepped the need for the Army to send out furlough notices for now, but that money won't last long, the Pentagon's top official said today. "There will be no furlough notices sent out in the holiday season," Gates said. But, "absent timely congressional action in the new year, we will again face the risk of running out of money," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said at a news briefing.
"The department welcomes this step, however it is important to note that it represents only a partial solution," he said.
Gates said officials are still analyzing the bill, but overall DoD received less than half of the president's $189.3 billion request.
Above the $55.7 billion needed to continue fighting, the emergency appropriation will provide money for military pay and benefits, replacing and repairing combat equipment, and funds for Iraqi and Afghan security forces, according to DoD officials.
It will not, however, provide money needed to pay U.S. troops for the full year, and operating funds will run out again in the spring, officials said.
Gates said today that funding the department in "fits and starts" effects planning and puts procurement and training for deploying troops at risk.
"I only hope that next year we can all come together and move quickly to provide the remaining funds to troops," Gates said.
On a more personal note, Gates acknowledged that the last-minute action to approve funding caused stress among the Defense Department work force.
"I realize and regret that in the last few weeks we have created anxiety and uncertainty for (the civilian work force). I hope we don't have to face a replay of this situation again this spring. But they can rest assured this department treasures them and will not take any action affecting them unless it absolutely must," Gates said.
This week is Gates' one-year anniversary as secretary. In the briefing he discussed progress made through the year, and challenges ahead.
"The war is far from over, and we must protect and build on the gains earned with the blood of our military, our allies and our Iraqi partners," Gates said.
In Iraq, 2008 could see as few as 10 brigade combat teams left in Iraq, Gates said. Plans are for the first five to return home by July. The first leaves the country this month.
If the security situation in Iraqi remains stable, five more could return home by the end of the administration, Gates said.
"My hope has been that the circumstances on the ground will continue to improve in a way that ... will allow a continuation of the drawdowns at roughly the same pace as the first half of the year," Gates said.
"That balance of the capacity of the Iraqi security forces to bear the security burden, the efforts and capacity of the provincial governments to provide services, and finally the ability of the national government -- all of these things are going to have to be weighed by Ambassador (Ryan C.) Crocker and General (David H.) Petraeus ... when they make their recommendations to the president," Gates said, referring to the U.S. ambassador to Iraq and the commander of coalition forces in Iraq.
Gates cautioned that any troop movements would be dependent on conditions in Iraq and based on recommendations by senior military commanders there. "It will be completely dependent on the circumstances on the ground," he said.
Gates said the main challenges in Iraq will be sustaining this year's security gains and encouraging legislative and economic progress in the region. While the performance of the Iraqi government ministries is somewhat uneven, Gates said, the Ministry of Finance is doing well, and macroeconomics in Iraq "look pretty good."
Also, he said, much of the funding for provincial reconstruction is coming from the central government.
In Afghanistan, forces have inflicted heavy losses on the Taliban, launched a comprehensive reconstruction effort and strengthened civic institutions and security forces, Gates said.
But, Afghanistan remains threatened by ruthless extremists and destructive narcotics trade, he added. "NATO's efforts to rebuild and secure the country must be sustained and expanded into next year and beyond," Gates said.
Gates said that some of the recent spike in violence in that country is due to operations in new areas. Forces have just recently taken control of the last town remaining under Taliban control.
He said challenges there included sustaining recent successes, hanging on to areas already cleared, creating conditions for further economic development, and adding capacity to the Afghan security forces. The secretary said that NATO was going to examine "more creative ways" for countries that are unable to provide combat troops to help. Some could help with funding or provide experts for reconstruction teams or provide police training in secured areas.
"We are going to try and be more creative in terms of finding ways for people to do more within the framework of the political realities of the different countries," Gates said.
When questioned about the U.S. possibly adding more troops to the country, Gates said there is not a need for a large number of additional troops. Based on commander's reported shortfalls in the country, the need would only be about 7,500 troops, with half of those serving as police trainers, he said.
"We will be looking at the requirements ourselves, and we will be talking with our allies. But there is clearly ... no requirement for a substantial plus-up of forces in Afghanistan to accomplish (the) mission," Gates said.
About 26,000 U.S. troops are in Afghanistan. More than 40 countries are supporting operations there, 39 of which are part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force. About 41,700 ISAF troops are in Afghanistan.
Dec. 21, 2007 - The $70 billion in emergency funds approved this week by Congress have sidestepped the need for the Army to send out furlough notices for now, but that money won't last long, the Pentagon's top official said today. "There will be no furlough notices sent out in the holiday season," Gates said. But, "absent timely congressional action in the new year, we will again face the risk of running out of money," Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said at a news briefing.
"The department welcomes this step, however it is important to note that it represents only a partial solution," he said.
Gates said officials are still analyzing the bill, but overall DoD received less than half of the president's $189.3 billion request.
Above the $55.7 billion needed to continue fighting, the emergency appropriation will provide money for military pay and benefits, replacing and repairing combat equipment, and funds for Iraqi and Afghan security forces, according to DoD officials.
It will not, however, provide money needed to pay U.S. troops for the full year, and operating funds will run out again in the spring, officials said.
Gates said today that funding the department in "fits and starts" effects planning and puts procurement and training for deploying troops at risk.
"I only hope that next year we can all come together and move quickly to provide the remaining funds to troops," Gates said.
On a more personal note, Gates acknowledged that the last-minute action to approve funding caused stress among the Defense Department work force.
"I realize and regret that in the last few weeks we have created anxiety and uncertainty for (the civilian work force). I hope we don't have to face a replay of this situation again this spring. But they can rest assured this department treasures them and will not take any action affecting them unless it absolutely must," Gates said.
This week is Gates' one-year anniversary as secretary. In the briefing he discussed progress made through the year, and challenges ahead.
"The war is far from over, and we must protect and build on the gains earned with the blood of our military, our allies and our Iraqi partners," Gates said.
In Iraq, 2008 could see as few as 10 brigade combat teams left in Iraq, Gates said. Plans are for the first five to return home by July. The first leaves the country this month.
If the security situation in Iraqi remains stable, five more could return home by the end of the administration, Gates said.
"My hope has been that the circumstances on the ground will continue to improve in a way that ... will allow a continuation of the drawdowns at roughly the same pace as the first half of the year," Gates said.
"That balance of the capacity of the Iraqi security forces to bear the security burden, the efforts and capacity of the provincial governments to provide services, and finally the ability of the national government -- all of these things are going to have to be weighed by Ambassador (Ryan C.) Crocker and General (David H.) Petraeus ... when they make their recommendations to the president," Gates said, referring to the U.S. ambassador to Iraq and the commander of coalition forces in Iraq.
Gates cautioned that any troop movements would be dependent on conditions in Iraq and based on recommendations by senior military commanders there. "It will be completely dependent on the circumstances on the ground," he said.
Gates said the main challenges in Iraq will be sustaining this year's security gains and encouraging legislative and economic progress in the region. While the performance of the Iraqi government ministries is somewhat uneven, Gates said, the Ministry of Finance is doing well, and macroeconomics in Iraq "look pretty good."
Also, he said, much of the funding for provincial reconstruction is coming from the central government.
In Afghanistan, forces have inflicted heavy losses on the Taliban, launched a comprehensive reconstruction effort and strengthened civic institutions and security forces, Gates said.
But, Afghanistan remains threatened by ruthless extremists and destructive narcotics trade, he added. "NATO's efforts to rebuild and secure the country must be sustained and expanded into next year and beyond," Gates said.
Gates said that some of the recent spike in violence in that country is due to operations in new areas. Forces have just recently taken control of the last town remaining under Taliban control.
He said challenges there included sustaining recent successes, hanging on to areas already cleared, creating conditions for further economic development, and adding capacity to the Afghan security forces. The secretary said that NATO was going to examine "more creative ways" for countries that are unable to provide combat troops to help. Some could help with funding or provide experts for reconstruction teams or provide police training in secured areas.
"We are going to try and be more creative in terms of finding ways for people to do more within the framework of the political realities of the different countries," Gates said.
When questioned about the U.S. possibly adding more troops to the country, Gates said there is not a need for a large number of additional troops. Based on commander's reported shortfalls in the country, the need would only be about 7,500 troops, with half of those serving as police trainers, he said.
"We will be looking at the requirements ourselves, and we will be talking with our allies. But there is clearly ... no requirement for a substantial plus-up of forces in Afghanistan to accomplish (the) mission," Gates said.
About 26,000 U.S. troops are in Afghanistan. More than 40 countries are supporting operations there, 39 of which are part of NATO's International Security Assistance Force. About 41,700 ISAF troops are in Afghanistan.
Combat Veterans Connect With America Through 'Why We Serve' Program
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Wrapping up three months of speaking engagements around the country, recently returned combat veterans said Americans long to hear firsthand accounts about duty on the front lines without media filters. "They were so hungry to hear our personal stories," said Marine 1st Lt. Tabitha White, after sharing experiences about her eight-month deployment to Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, with schoolchildren, employers and civic groups through the "Why We Serve" program.
"The only information they had about what's going on came from the news," White said. "They said they never get a chance to hear personal stories."
The Defense Department established the Why We Serve program in July 2006 to give returning veterans the opportunity to fill that void.
The brainchild of retired Marine Gen. Peter Pace, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the program sends servicemembers just back from Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa into the community. They crisscross the country sharing their firsthand experiences with community organizations, business associations, academic institutions, veterans groups and other non-profit or non-partisan organizations.
Today, the latest group, made up of three Marines, two soldiers, two sailors and two airmen, wrapped up the fifth three-month iteration since the program's start.
Air Force Maj. Marcia Potter, who visited 12 states describing her work as a nurse practitioner at Balad Air Base, Iraq, said the program helps balance information the public receives about the combat theater from other sources.
Program participants share straightforward details about what they did, what was happening around them, and how it felt to be part of it.
"The Pentagon doesn't tell me what to say," Potter said. "I simply talk about my own experience."
Wherever the participants took their stories, audiences responded. "I heard over and over again how people now have a better idea about the military and what it's doing," Potter said.
Army Maj. Cedric Burden, who spoke at 30 events through the program, said the groups he talked with couldn't get enough. Many people came to the speaking events with written questions, some with three parts. At one event, the emcee had to cut off the questioning when it stretched well beyond the allotted two-hour time block.
Potter said the program gave people with little or no previous exposure to the military a chance to see that it's made up of people not all that different from themselves. "It helped show people that in the military, we have relatable people -- people like them, but who have dedicated themselves to serving their country," Potter said.
For Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Sivenson Guerrier, a highlight of the program was speaking at Navy veterans' functions to explain the broad missions today's sailors are conducting in the war on terror.
"There's a new generation of sailors on the ground, not on ships," said Guerrier, who returned from Afghanistan, where he served as a maintenance officer for the provincial reconstruction team in Asadabad. "When they heard about that, they were really surprised and so proud of the tradition that they had carried."
Schoolchildren, many who thought only soldiers were fighting the war, were equally surprised, Guerrier said. "It felt really good to tell them that, no, the Navy is there, too," he said.
Guerrier said he got a kick out of some of the "crazy questions" children would ask him. "They're honest and don't sugarcoat any questions," he said. "They were just eager to learn."
White said she was amazed at the level of support she felt everywhere she traveled. "Most of the public are so supportive of us as military members," she said. "They may not agree with some of the policies and politics, but they are so supportive of us."
Participating in the program, particularly fresh off a deployment, proved to be a benefit to the speakers, too. Burden said it helped give him closure after his yearlong deployment as an infantry company commander with 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, in Hawijah and Rashad, Iraq.
It also helped him deal with the 10 soldiers he lost. By meeting their families, visiting some of their graves and officiating at the dedication of a post office in one's honor during his Why We Serve assignment, Burden said, he was able to pay tribute to his troops.
"It was therapy for me," agreed White, who entered the program just a month after returning in August from her deployment to Iraq with Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 2. "Before that, I had had no time to fully process everything I'd gone through. This helped me come to terms with my experience and what I personally got out of it."
White said she takes pride in her service and the contribution she made as an airspace cell coordinator. "I was doing my job, protecting my country, protecting my family and protecting the community," she said.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - Wrapping up three months of speaking engagements around the country, recently returned combat veterans said Americans long to hear firsthand accounts about duty on the front lines without media filters. "They were so hungry to hear our personal stories," said Marine 1st Lt. Tabitha White, after sharing experiences about her eight-month deployment to Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, with schoolchildren, employers and civic groups through the "Why We Serve" program.
"The only information they had about what's going on came from the news," White said. "They said they never get a chance to hear personal stories."
The Defense Department established the Why We Serve program in July 2006 to give returning veterans the opportunity to fill that void.
The brainchild of retired Marine Gen. Peter Pace, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the program sends servicemembers just back from Iraq, Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa into the community. They crisscross the country sharing their firsthand experiences with community organizations, business associations, academic institutions, veterans groups and other non-profit or non-partisan organizations.
Today, the latest group, made up of three Marines, two soldiers, two sailors and two airmen, wrapped up the fifth three-month iteration since the program's start.
Air Force Maj. Marcia Potter, who visited 12 states describing her work as a nurse practitioner at Balad Air Base, Iraq, said the program helps balance information the public receives about the combat theater from other sources.
Program participants share straightforward details about what they did, what was happening around them, and how it felt to be part of it.
"The Pentagon doesn't tell me what to say," Potter said. "I simply talk about my own experience."
Wherever the participants took their stories, audiences responded. "I heard over and over again how people now have a better idea about the military and what it's doing," Potter said.
Army Maj. Cedric Burden, who spoke at 30 events through the program, said the groups he talked with couldn't get enough. Many people came to the speaking events with written questions, some with three parts. At one event, the emcee had to cut off the questioning when it stretched well beyond the allotted two-hour time block.
Potter said the program gave people with little or no previous exposure to the military a chance to see that it's made up of people not all that different from themselves. "It helped show people that in the military, we have relatable people -- people like them, but who have dedicated themselves to serving their country," Potter said.
For Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Sivenson Guerrier, a highlight of the program was speaking at Navy veterans' functions to explain the broad missions today's sailors are conducting in the war on terror.
"There's a new generation of sailors on the ground, not on ships," said Guerrier, who returned from Afghanistan, where he served as a maintenance officer for the provincial reconstruction team in Asadabad. "When they heard about that, they were really surprised and so proud of the tradition that they had carried."
Schoolchildren, many who thought only soldiers were fighting the war, were equally surprised, Guerrier said. "It felt really good to tell them that, no, the Navy is there, too," he said.
Guerrier said he got a kick out of some of the "crazy questions" children would ask him. "They're honest and don't sugarcoat any questions," he said. "They were just eager to learn."
White said she was amazed at the level of support she felt everywhere she traveled. "Most of the public are so supportive of us as military members," she said. "They may not agree with some of the policies and politics, but they are so supportive of us."
Participating in the program, particularly fresh off a deployment, proved to be a benefit to the speakers, too. Burden said it helped give him closure after his yearlong deployment as an infantry company commander with 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, in Hawijah and Rashad, Iraq.
It also helped him deal with the 10 soldiers he lost. By meeting their families, visiting some of their graves and officiating at the dedication of a post office in one's honor during his Why We Serve assignment, Burden said, he was able to pay tribute to his troops.
"It was therapy for me," agreed White, who entered the program just a month after returning in August from her deployment to Iraq with Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 2. "Before that, I had had no time to fully process everything I'd gone through. This helped me come to terms with my experience and what I personally got out of it."
White said she takes pride in her service and the contribution she made as an airspace cell coordinator. "I was doing my job, protecting my country, protecting my family and protecting the community," she said.
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