By Donna Miles
Dec. 14, 2006 – Members of the Alaska Army National Guard here are sizzling with excitement about their new cold weather gear that keeps them toasty warm even when temperatures dip to double digits below zero. The new Generation III Extended Cold Weather Clothing System takes the latest insulating and wicking materials that have become hot tickets among skiers, snowmobile riders and other extreme-sports enthusiasts and adapting them for soldiers operating in demanding arctic conditions, explained Army Maj. Joe Miley, operations officer for the Alaska Guard's 49th Missile Defense Battalion. "It's designed to work in extremely cold weather," he said.
Unit members got the new, layered system about two weeks ago, just in time for the coldest part of the season here, when the "Delta winds" bring in sustained 60-mph winds, with higher gusts, and temperatures can hit minus-60.
Those conditions make soldiering pretty demanding, explained Army Sgt. Seth Paul, a military policeman for the unit who patrols the Missile Defense Complex on some of those bone-chilling days. They gel up diesel fuel in vehicles and fray or split belts, freeze up weapons systems, and render radios unusable.
Such conditions can take an even bigger toll on troops, particularly those serving outside over extended periods.
The new ECWCS gear, with 12 components that can be mixed and matched depending on the conditions and how active a soldier is, offers the critical protection soldiers here need to do their jobs, Miley said.
The system begins with silky long underwear that's made of lightweight, moisture-wicking polyester designed to keep the wearer dry. The mid-weight shirt and pants provide light insulation during warmer days or an extra layer in colder conditions.
The hands-down favorite piece of gear among the Guardsmen here, the green fleece jacket, offers a snuggly replacement for the Army's heavy black fleece jacket. "It's lighter and warmer, and it's modeled after animal fur," Paul said.
On colder days, soldiers can top the fleece with a lightweight, waterproof windbreaker or a breathable soft shell set designed for cold, rainy ways. A waterproof layer offers even more protection in prolonged, hard rain. During the coldest days, troops can add a puffy, extreme-cold-weather parka with high-tech insulation quilted into it and matching pants that zip over other layers in the system.
After two weeks wearing the new gear, the Alaska Guardsmen here give it a unanimous thumbs-up. "I love it. It's comfortable as pajamas, but still looks really professional," said Sgt. Katja Paul, an MP who makes up half of one of the husband-wife teams within the 49th Missile Defense Battalion here.
"It's easy to take care of. You wash it and dry it, and you're ready to go," she said. "And the real beauty of it is that the whole system can be easily folded up and put in your rucksack."
Army Spc. Anthony Montoya, a battalion communications operator, touted the new gear's breathability, even during heavy activity. "It works well on the range. It's comfortable and lets you move around, but it's still light and compressible," he said.
Seth Paul admitted to putting the new gear to the test "on Army time and off Army time," including snowboarding in his off-duty hours. "It's great stuff," he said. "You can get it soaking wet on the outside and it still keeps you warm and dry."
The new ECWCS gear is slated for initial fielding to the Army in about a year, but the 49th Missile Defense Battalion and a few other units received it ahead of schedule, based on their mission. The Fort Drum, N.Y.-based 10th Mountain Division received it in 2005, in time for its deployment to Afghanistan.
Lt. Col. Christopher Cavoli, commander of the division's 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, offered the new system his highest praises after seeing its effectiveness in Operation Mountain Lion in the spring.
"During Operation Mountain Lion, I found myself praying for bad weather -- the first time in my military career I was actually begging for a cold front to come through," he said. "I knew my soldiers could handle it and the enemy couldn't.
"The ECWCS allowed my men to outlast the enemy on their own terrain," Cavoli said. "When the enemy was forced out of the mountains due to the bitter cold to take shelter, that's when we got them."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Friday, December 15, 2006
American Idol Winner Visits Troops
By Sgt. Sarah Scully, USA
Dec. 14, 2006 – Hundreds of servicemembers lined up to receive an autograph and photo from Carrie Underwood, country music star and 2005 American Idol winner, at Camp Arifjan's Combined Operations and Intelligence Center yesterday. Underwood, on a United Service Organizations tour in the Middle East, also gave a concert at Camp Buehring, a few hours away from Camp Arifjan, before heading to Iraq for additional concerts.
Army Master Sgt. Ricky Bakke waited in line for his chance to have Underwood sign a guitar for his 10-year-old daughter right before Christmas.
"(She's) a huge fan of Carrie's and is learning to play," Bakke, a logistics NCO for National Guard affairs supporting 3rd Army and U.S. Army Central, said of his daughter.
"Thanks for giving me such a warm welcome," Underwood said to a fan. "We're happy to be able to come here and spread some holiday cheer."
Clutching pictures and CDs of Underwood, servicemembers of all ranks and ages asked her to sign memorabilia for family members and themselves and to pose for pictures.
"I had Carrie autograph posters for me and my two girls," said Chief Warrant Officer Stoney Hobbs, a pilot with 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment. "They are big fans from American Idol."
(Army Sgt. Sarah Scully is assigned to the 40th Public Affairs Detachment.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Dec. 14, 2006 – Hundreds of servicemembers lined up to receive an autograph and photo from Carrie Underwood, country music star and 2005 American Idol winner, at Camp Arifjan's Combined Operations and Intelligence Center yesterday. Underwood, on a United Service Organizations tour in the Middle East, also gave a concert at Camp Buehring, a few hours away from Camp Arifjan, before heading to Iraq for additional concerts.
Army Master Sgt. Ricky Bakke waited in line for his chance to have Underwood sign a guitar for his 10-year-old daughter right before Christmas.
"(She's) a huge fan of Carrie's and is learning to play," Bakke, a logistics NCO for National Guard affairs supporting 3rd Army and U.S. Army Central, said of his daughter.
"Thanks for giving me such a warm welcome," Underwood said to a fan. "We're happy to be able to come here and spread some holiday cheer."
Clutching pictures and CDs of Underwood, servicemembers of all ranks and ages asked her to sign memorabilia for family members and themselves and to pose for pictures.
"I had Carrie autograph posters for me and my two girls," said Chief Warrant Officer Stoney Hobbs, a pilot with 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment. "They are big fans from American Idol."
(Army Sgt. Sarah Scully is assigned to the 40th Public Affairs Detachment.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Students' Penny Drive for Troops Makes Cents
By John J. Kruzel
Dec. 15, 2006 – The pennywise students of Hawthorne Middle School, in Pocatello, Id., can afford to be proud of themselves. In November, the students held a three-week penny drive to raise money for 92 National Guard servicemembers recently deployed from Pocatello. Hawthorne students come from the poorest parts of Pocatello, and the penny drive gave each one a chance to participate in the fundraising effort, school officials said.
"You walk down the sidewalk and see pennies on the ground," Carol Hill, director of Hawthorne's Student Leadership Group and school counselor said. "We didn't ask them (to donate), we just had jars out that they could drop their coins into."
School officials expected the students would raise roughly $150. But the 540 Hawthorne students dropped $1,001.30 in coins into the school's collection jars.
"When you think of a penny drive you don't think it will turn into so much. I was amazed," Hill said.
Many Hawthorne students come from families under financial strain, so raising roughly $1,000 was overwhelming and humbling to witness, Hill said.
Hawthorne will use the money to send greeting cards and telephone calling cards to each of the 92 servicemembers before the holidays.
"I donated to the soldiers because I feel like since they give freedom and safety to us, I should at least give some money to help them have an opportunity to talk with their families," Kourtney, an eighth-grader at Hawthorne, said.
Every six weeks, Hawthorne students brainstorm possible service projects, then one project is selected through a popular vote. Collecting coins for troops won by a landslide. And because Veterans Day was nearing when the idea was floated, patriotism might have been on the children's' minds when selecting the project, Hill said.
"I participated in the fundraiser because I have family in the war," seventh-grader Rachael said. "I know it was the right thing to do."
During a school assembly on Veterans Day, Army Spc. J.D. Oborne returned to Hawthorne Middle School, his alma mater, to speak to students. "He talked about what life was like as a soldier over (in Iraq). I think it had a terrific effect on them," Hill said.
A student survey revealed that many students have dads, brothers, and uncles in Iraq right now, said Hill, whose nephew currently is serving in Baghdad.
"I wanted to honor my family," Scott, and eighth-grader, said. "We've had many members in the military throughout the years."
News of Hawthorne's penny drive rolled as far as Capitol Hill.
"The success of Hawthorne Middle School students in this penny drive reflects a refreshing sense of civic duty and national pride," Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo said. "It's indicative of the influence of strong families and educators at this Idaho school.
"I commend them on their generosity and commitment to our military, and I call our nation's attention to the students, parents and teachers of Hawthorne Middle School as models of committed patriotism and selfless giving," Crapo said.
The kids learned that there's no amount too small when giving to our troops, Hill said. "I'm really proud of these kids," she said. "You hear a lot about what's wrong. Well, this is an example of what's really right with American youth. If we give them the opportunity they will measure up."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Dec. 15, 2006 – The pennywise students of Hawthorne Middle School, in Pocatello, Id., can afford to be proud of themselves. In November, the students held a three-week penny drive to raise money for 92 National Guard servicemembers recently deployed from Pocatello. Hawthorne students come from the poorest parts of Pocatello, and the penny drive gave each one a chance to participate in the fundraising effort, school officials said.
"You walk down the sidewalk and see pennies on the ground," Carol Hill, director of Hawthorne's Student Leadership Group and school counselor said. "We didn't ask them (to donate), we just had jars out that they could drop their coins into."
School officials expected the students would raise roughly $150. But the 540 Hawthorne students dropped $1,001.30 in coins into the school's collection jars.
"When you think of a penny drive you don't think it will turn into so much. I was amazed," Hill said.
Many Hawthorne students come from families under financial strain, so raising roughly $1,000 was overwhelming and humbling to witness, Hill said.
Hawthorne will use the money to send greeting cards and telephone calling cards to each of the 92 servicemembers before the holidays.
"I donated to the soldiers because I feel like since they give freedom and safety to us, I should at least give some money to help them have an opportunity to talk with their families," Kourtney, an eighth-grader at Hawthorne, said.
Every six weeks, Hawthorne students brainstorm possible service projects, then one project is selected through a popular vote. Collecting coins for troops won by a landslide. And because Veterans Day was nearing when the idea was floated, patriotism might have been on the children's' minds when selecting the project, Hill said.
"I participated in the fundraiser because I have family in the war," seventh-grader Rachael said. "I know it was the right thing to do."
During a school assembly on Veterans Day, Army Spc. J.D. Oborne returned to Hawthorne Middle School, his alma mater, to speak to students. "He talked about what life was like as a soldier over (in Iraq). I think it had a terrific effect on them," Hill said.
A student survey revealed that many students have dads, brothers, and uncles in Iraq right now, said Hill, whose nephew currently is serving in Baghdad.
"I wanted to honor my family," Scott, and eighth-grader, said. "We've had many members in the military throughout the years."
News of Hawthorne's penny drive rolled as far as Capitol Hill.
"The success of Hawthorne Middle School students in this penny drive reflects a refreshing sense of civic duty and national pride," Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo said. "It's indicative of the influence of strong families and educators at this Idaho school.
"I commend them on their generosity and commitment to our military, and I call our nation's attention to the students, parents and teachers of Hawthorne Middle School as models of committed patriotism and selfless giving," Crapo said.
The kids learned that there's no amount too small when giving to our troops, Hill said. "I'm really proud of these kids," she said. "You hear a lot about what's wrong. Well, this is an example of what's really right with American youth. If we give them the opportunity they will measure up."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
B-52 Flight Uses Synthetic Fuel in All Eight Engines
Dec. 15, 2006 – A B-52 Stratofortress took off from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., today on a flight-test mission using a blend of synthetic fuel and "JP-8" in all eight engines. This is the first time a "Buff" has flown using a "synfuel-blend" as the only fuel on board, Air Force officials said. In September, the Air Force successfully flew a B-52 with two-engines using the synfuel-blend. "The B-52 test flights at Edwards Air Force Base are the initial steps in the Air Force process to test and certify a synthetic blend of fuel for its aviation fleet," Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne said. "We are confident that the success of this flight will bring us one step closer to allowing a domestic source of synthetic fuel to accomplish the Air Force mission in the future."
The first B-52 flight using "Fischer-Tropsch" fuel occurred Sept. 19 at Edwards. Today's flight further demonstrates the Air Force's commitment to using alternate fuels and is the next step in the testing and certification process before the fuel can go into widespread use, officials said.
The Air Force has reinvigorated its energy strategy, which is underpinned by supply-side availability and demand-side conservation, Air Force Assistant Secretary Bill Anderson said. "The Air Force is moving forward in its commitment to certify alternative sources of fuel for both its aircraft and ground vehicles fleet," Anderson said.
Maj. Gen. Curtis Bedke, Air Force Flight Test commander, is flying the aircraft to assess how well the aircraft performs using the synthetic blend of fuel.
The next test phase for the B-52 will be cold weather testing to determine how well the synfuel-blend performs in extreme weather conditions.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
The first B-52 flight using "Fischer-Tropsch" fuel occurred Sept. 19 at Edwards. Today's flight further demonstrates the Air Force's commitment to using alternate fuels and is the next step in the testing and certification process before the fuel can go into widespread use, officials said.
The Air Force has reinvigorated its energy strategy, which is underpinned by supply-side availability and demand-side conservation, Air Force Assistant Secretary Bill Anderson said. "The Air Force is moving forward in its commitment to certify alternative sources of fuel for both its aircraft and ground vehicles fleet," Anderson said.
Maj. Gen. Curtis Bedke, Air Force Flight Test commander, is flying the aircraft to assess how well the aircraft performs using the synthetic blend of fuel.
The next test phase for the B-52 will be cold weather testing to determine how well the synfuel-blend performs in extreme weather conditions.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Reunited Stryker Families Planning for Extra-Special Holiday
By Donna Miles
Dec. 15, 2006 – Christmas came early this year for the Skeen family as they celebrated what Joanna Skeen called the best gift she could ever ask for: the safe return of her husband. Army Staff Sgt. Michael Skeen and his fellow 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers returned to Alaska this month after 16 months in Iraq.
"It's already Christmas," said Joanna, whose husband was among the first "Arctic Wolves" delivered to their families and loved ones during the past weeks -- not in sleighs, but in chartered commercial planes. "It's felt like Christmas morning every day since he's been home," she said. "It's just overwhelming."
Holding his 18-month-old daughter, Lillian, Staff Sgt. Skeen could barely take his eyes off the strawberry-blonde toddler who was just two months old when he left for Iraq. "Now she's walking around and talking," he beamed. "It's great."
Skeen was deployed in Iraq last Christmas with Battery A, 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, which was redesignated yesterday as 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery.
Knowing he'd miss his baby's first Christmas in 2005, Skeen had squeezed in an early celebration during his rest-and-recuperation leave earlier that month. A highlight, he said, was taking Lillian for her first trip to see Santa Claus, near the family's log home in (no kidding) North Pole, Alaska.
"Now I'm ready to make up for lost time," he said. "I'm finally getting to be with my family."
Another Stryker Brigade soldier, Capt. Jacob Haverstick, is excited about spending Christmas with his wife, Amy, and daughter, Ava, who was born five months after he deployed to Iraq.
If there's an "up" side to deployments, Haverstick said, it's that they make people appreciate what they have at home. "Being deployed makes you realize how important family is," he said. "You realize that you take a lot of things for granted, and how much (family members) mean to you."
As the holiday approaches, Haverstick is planning a low-key celebration. "We're staying here and having a quiet Christmas, just us," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it."
Like Haverstick, Ashley McCulloh and her husband, Capt. Timothy McCulloh, are planning a quiet holiday with their 14-month-old son, Brooks.
Ashley went out of her way to fill their house on a snowy, wooded hillside about 10 miles from Fort Wainwright with holiday spirit. She put up a tree and hung red, white and blue bows from the balcony, a big wreath at the door, icicle lights from the roof, and holiday stockings for everyone, including the family dog.
"This is our first Christmas (together) as a family, and we want it to be special," she said.
But big parties and travel arrangements don't figure high in the McCullohs' plans. "I think it's going to be an intimate Christmas," she said. "I think everyone here is going to have a very close family Christmas, with not so many big ones.
"Everyone wanted their spouses here for Christmas, and they got it," she said. "So now we want to just enjoy that we were the lucky ones to get our spouses back, and a lot of people are just staying here."
While many newly returned soldiers here prepare to celebrate the holiday with new babies, Spc. Ian Helmandollar from the newly redesignated 2nd Brigade, 8th Field Artillery, looks forward to spending it with his new bride.
Helmandollar married his wife, Lori, when he was home for rest-and-recuperation leave in October 2005 and shared last Christmas with her only through e-mails and phone calls.
"Last Christmas, we were on a mission in Mosul," he recalled. And while the contractor that ran the dining facility there tried to make the holiday meal special, with seasonal tablecloths and sparkling grape juice, Helmandollar said, this year's celebration will be head and shoulders above it.
"It's going to feel really different this year, being home," he said. "It's going to be great."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Dec. 15, 2006 – Christmas came early this year for the Skeen family as they celebrated what Joanna Skeen called the best gift she could ever ask for: the safe return of her husband. Army Staff Sgt. Michael Skeen and his fellow 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers returned to Alaska this month after 16 months in Iraq.
"It's already Christmas," said Joanna, whose husband was among the first "Arctic Wolves" delivered to their families and loved ones during the past weeks -- not in sleighs, but in chartered commercial planes. "It's felt like Christmas morning every day since he's been home," she said. "It's just overwhelming."
Holding his 18-month-old daughter, Lillian, Staff Sgt. Skeen could barely take his eyes off the strawberry-blonde toddler who was just two months old when he left for Iraq. "Now she's walking around and talking," he beamed. "It's great."
Skeen was deployed in Iraq last Christmas with Battery A, 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, which was redesignated yesterday as 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery.
Knowing he'd miss his baby's first Christmas in 2005, Skeen had squeezed in an early celebration during his rest-and-recuperation leave earlier that month. A highlight, he said, was taking Lillian for her first trip to see Santa Claus, near the family's log home in (no kidding) North Pole, Alaska.
"Now I'm ready to make up for lost time," he said. "I'm finally getting to be with my family."
Another Stryker Brigade soldier, Capt. Jacob Haverstick, is excited about spending Christmas with his wife, Amy, and daughter, Ava, who was born five months after he deployed to Iraq.
If there's an "up" side to deployments, Haverstick said, it's that they make people appreciate what they have at home. "Being deployed makes you realize how important family is," he said. "You realize that you take a lot of things for granted, and how much (family members) mean to you."
As the holiday approaches, Haverstick is planning a low-key celebration. "We're staying here and having a quiet Christmas, just us," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it."
Like Haverstick, Ashley McCulloh and her husband, Capt. Timothy McCulloh, are planning a quiet holiday with their 14-month-old son, Brooks.
Ashley went out of her way to fill their house on a snowy, wooded hillside about 10 miles from Fort Wainwright with holiday spirit. She put up a tree and hung red, white and blue bows from the balcony, a big wreath at the door, icicle lights from the roof, and holiday stockings for everyone, including the family dog.
"This is our first Christmas (together) as a family, and we want it to be special," she said.
But big parties and travel arrangements don't figure high in the McCullohs' plans. "I think it's going to be an intimate Christmas," she said. "I think everyone here is going to have a very close family Christmas, with not so many big ones.
"Everyone wanted their spouses here for Christmas, and they got it," she said. "So now we want to just enjoy that we were the lucky ones to get our spouses back, and a lot of people are just staying here."
While many newly returned soldiers here prepare to celebrate the holiday with new babies, Spc. Ian Helmandollar from the newly redesignated 2nd Brigade, 8th Field Artillery, looks forward to spending it with his new bride.
Helmandollar married his wife, Lori, when he was home for rest-and-recuperation leave in October 2005 and shared last Christmas with her only through e-mails and phone calls.
"Last Christmas, we were on a mission in Mosul," he recalled. And while the contractor that ran the dining facility there tried to make the holiday meal special, with seasonal tablecloths and sparkling grape juice, Helmandollar said, this year's celebration will be head and shoulders above it.
"It's going to feel really different this year, being home," he said. "It's going to be great."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
New San Diego Store Illustrates Commissary Transformation
By Gerry J. Gilmore
Dec. 15, 2006 – A new commissary being built in southern California heralds the future for the Defense Commissary Agency, the organization's top official said today. Nixon, 60, who served in Vietnam almost 40 years ago as a Marine Corps supply sergeant, became DeCA's chief in late June. The new San Diego commissary, he said, will be the largest and most modern facility within the agency's 263-store, worldwide system.
"We call it our store of the future, because it is going to have some concepts in it that we are going to unveil for the first time," Nixon said.
Many of the new commissary's features, such as self-service and express checking lanes, a bright interior, and colorful customer-information signs are the result of findings from commissary Agency-commissioned grocery industry trend studies, Nixon said.
Major food retailers also perceive that shoppers want grocery stores to offer both convenience and choice, he said. Therefore, the new San Diego store will have two main entrances, one for customers who want to pick up just a few food items, and another entrance for those who want to stock up on groceries.
"You're going to have to be able to address two entirely different shopping dynamics: the convenience shopper and then the pantry-loading shopper," Nixon said. "Somehow, you're going to have to be able to attract both of them."
The new San Diego commissary also will have a health and wellness center that provides nutritional information for its customers' health needs. And, great effort and care is being taken to ensure that San Diego commissary customers -- and other commissary patrons -- will be able to choose from only the best and freshest meats, produce and seafood available. "We're going to have the best-possible products at the best prices you'll find anyplace in the world," Nixon said.
Features found in the new San Diego store will eventually filter across the commissary system, Nixon said, noting DeCA is focused on providing quality products, service and a unique shopping experience for its customers.
The Defense Commissary Agency was established in 1990 through the merger of previously separate commissary systems managed by each service branch. Nixon, who has worked at the agency since it was created, noted that his organization has changed much in the past 16 years.
Recent government audits have provided DeCA a clean bill of financial health, Nixon said, noting his 18,000-employee global organization is one of the few within the Defense Department to achieve this. "We're a model citizen when it comes to fiscal responsibility in the Defense Department, and we want to continue to demonstrate that," Nixon said.
Operational improvements and new technologies implemented across the commissary system over the past few years have helped it become more efficient and an even better steward of taxpayer dollars, he said.
And, servicemembers and their families continue to receive great value by shopping at military commissaries, Nixon said. Commissary shoppers realize about 32 percent in annual savings, he said, which works out to about $3,000 a year for a family of four.
The commissary benefit "is alive, well and strong," Nixon said, noting it carries a lot of weight among military families during re-enlistment decision time.
"We've got the best customer in the world," Nixon said, "and for what we ask our military to do, there's nothing we can't do for them."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Dec. 15, 2006 – A new commissary being built in southern California heralds the future for the Defense Commissary Agency, the organization's top official said today. Nixon, 60, who served in Vietnam almost 40 years ago as a Marine Corps supply sergeant, became DeCA's chief in late June. The new San Diego commissary, he said, will be the largest and most modern facility within the agency's 263-store, worldwide system.
"We call it our store of the future, because it is going to have some concepts in it that we are going to unveil for the first time," Nixon said.
Many of the new commissary's features, such as self-service and express checking lanes, a bright interior, and colorful customer-information signs are the result of findings from commissary Agency-commissioned grocery industry trend studies, Nixon said.
Major food retailers also perceive that shoppers want grocery stores to offer both convenience and choice, he said. Therefore, the new San Diego store will have two main entrances, one for customers who want to pick up just a few food items, and another entrance for those who want to stock up on groceries.
"You're going to have to be able to address two entirely different shopping dynamics: the convenience shopper and then the pantry-loading shopper," Nixon said. "Somehow, you're going to have to be able to attract both of them."
The new San Diego commissary also will have a health and wellness center that provides nutritional information for its customers' health needs. And, great effort and care is being taken to ensure that San Diego commissary customers -- and other commissary patrons -- will be able to choose from only the best and freshest meats, produce and seafood available. "We're going to have the best-possible products at the best prices you'll find anyplace in the world," Nixon said.
Features found in the new San Diego store will eventually filter across the commissary system, Nixon said, noting DeCA is focused on providing quality products, service and a unique shopping experience for its customers.
The Defense Commissary Agency was established in 1990 through the merger of previously separate commissary systems managed by each service branch. Nixon, who has worked at the agency since it was created, noted that his organization has changed much in the past 16 years.
Recent government audits have provided DeCA a clean bill of financial health, Nixon said, noting his 18,000-employee global organization is one of the few within the Defense Department to achieve this. "We're a model citizen when it comes to fiscal responsibility in the Defense Department, and we want to continue to demonstrate that," Nixon said.
Operational improvements and new technologies implemented across the commissary system over the past few years have helped it become more efficient and an even better steward of taxpayer dollars, he said.
And, servicemembers and their families continue to receive great value by shopping at military commissaries, Nixon said. Commissary shoppers realize about 32 percent in annual savings, he said, which works out to about $3,000 a year for a family of four.
The commissary benefit "is alive, well and strong," Nixon said, noting it carries a lot of weight among military families during re-enlistment decision time.
"We've got the best customer in the world," Nixon said, "and for what we ask our military to do, there's nothing we can't do for them."
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
'Operation Christmas' Cheers Military Families
By Elaine Wilson
Dec. 14, 2006 – Christmas came a few weeks early this year for military families throughout San Antonio. Nearly 300 servicemembers and their families, many dressed in their holiday best, flocked to the Texas National Guard Armory early yesterday for "Operation Christmas," a campaign aimed at brightening the holidays for military families.
The San Antonio event was the fifth in a series of six celebrations that have taken place in military communities throughout the nation, thanks to a joint effort between America Supports You partner Operation Homefront and Wal-Mart. America Supports You is a Defense Department program that highlights and facilitates public support for U.S. servicemembers and their families.
"Operation Christmas is a way to say thank you to military members for their service and thank you to the family members who are sacrificing," said Amy Palmer of Operation Homefront.
The early morning festivities, held in a colorfully decked-out tent, included holiday arts and crafts, a visit with Santa Claus, food, music, and satellite and Web links with deployed loved ones. San Antonio Spurs basketball legend George "Iceman" Gervin was on hand to sign basketballs and autograph pictures for new and old fans alike.
"We realize many military families here are sacrificing, as well as the military overseas," said the Basketball Hall of Famer. "We wanted to show how much we appreciate them and will do whatever we can to support them."
No one walked away empty-handed. Each child received a sizeable toy from Santa, and parents and older siblings were treated to Wal-Mart gift cards so they could buy toys of their own. While Santa will most likely garner the glory, the credit for the early Christmas gifts was due to Wal-Mart, which donated $500,000 to Operation Homefront for the Operation Christmas events.
"This is wonderful," said Wendy Hansen, who traveled about 130 miles from Fort Hood, Texas, with her 8-year-old son, Dawson, to attend the event. Her husband deployed to Iraq in October. "It means a lot to me, makes me realize that people care."
Along with military families, about 45 wounded warriors recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center here took part in the festivities. While too old for Santa's lap, the servicemembers still scored an early Christmas present.
"This is a great thing to do for military families," said wounded warrior Army Staff Sgt. David Barnette, who was waiting in line to greet Santa with his wife, Ruby, and 5-year-old daughter, Jordan.
"Doing something like this is a blessing," Ruby said.
"It's wonderful that people care so much for soldiers," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Colvin. "To be out there giving our lives, and have something like this to come back to, it's heartwarming."
A few of the recovering soldiers appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" program, which sent a crew to broadcast live from the Operation Christmas site. The morning show has covered two of the events, and plans to cover the final one in Savannah, Ga., next week.
"You can never show enough support of troops," said Morgan Zalkin, GMA producer. "We wanted to let them know that we weren't just thinking of the troops in the field, but also their families back home."
"I don't know how you can't support the troops," said GMA correspondent Mike Barz, an Army "brat" whose grandfather fought in three wars. "Regardless of how you feel about the war, you should support the servicemembers."
Brooke Army Medical Center Commander Brig. Gen. James Gilman thanked everyone for their efforts in support of military members and their family and emphasized the importance of America's continued support.
"Organizations like Operation Homefront and Operation Comfort and businesses that help do this type of an event are indicators that Americans understand how hard it is to be a warrior or the family of one," he said. "Our wounded warriors work really hard. I'm not sure people understand how hard it is to get up, endure pain and fatigue, and stay motivated.
"Support like this keeps them going, keeps them carrying on."
Chris Hansen, a wounded warrior injured a year ago by two roadside bombs in Iraq, said the support was much appreciated, particularly as he transitions to civilian life.
"I didn't expect this; it's a surprise," said the father of five children, all under age 8. "I wasn't able to afford much for my kids this year, so this means a lot."
(Elaine Wilson is assigned to the Fort Sam Houston Public Information Office.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Dec. 14, 2006 – Christmas came a few weeks early this year for military families throughout San Antonio. Nearly 300 servicemembers and their families, many dressed in their holiday best, flocked to the Texas National Guard Armory early yesterday for "Operation Christmas," a campaign aimed at brightening the holidays for military families.
The San Antonio event was the fifth in a series of six celebrations that have taken place in military communities throughout the nation, thanks to a joint effort between America Supports You partner Operation Homefront and Wal-Mart. America Supports You is a Defense Department program that highlights and facilitates public support for U.S. servicemembers and their families.
"Operation Christmas is a way to say thank you to military members for their service and thank you to the family members who are sacrificing," said Amy Palmer of Operation Homefront.
The early morning festivities, held in a colorfully decked-out tent, included holiday arts and crafts, a visit with Santa Claus, food, music, and satellite and Web links with deployed loved ones. San Antonio Spurs basketball legend George "Iceman" Gervin was on hand to sign basketballs and autograph pictures for new and old fans alike.
"We realize many military families here are sacrificing, as well as the military overseas," said the Basketball Hall of Famer. "We wanted to show how much we appreciate them and will do whatever we can to support them."
No one walked away empty-handed. Each child received a sizeable toy from Santa, and parents and older siblings were treated to Wal-Mart gift cards so they could buy toys of their own. While Santa will most likely garner the glory, the credit for the early Christmas gifts was due to Wal-Mart, which donated $500,000 to Operation Homefront for the Operation Christmas events.
"This is wonderful," said Wendy Hansen, who traveled about 130 miles from Fort Hood, Texas, with her 8-year-old son, Dawson, to attend the event. Her husband deployed to Iraq in October. "It means a lot to me, makes me realize that people care."
Along with military families, about 45 wounded warriors recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center here took part in the festivities. While too old for Santa's lap, the servicemembers still scored an early Christmas present.
"This is a great thing to do for military families," said wounded warrior Army Staff Sgt. David Barnette, who was waiting in line to greet Santa with his wife, Ruby, and 5-year-old daughter, Jordan.
"Doing something like this is a blessing," Ruby said.
"It's wonderful that people care so much for soldiers," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Colvin. "To be out there giving our lives, and have something like this to come back to, it's heartwarming."
A few of the recovering soldiers appeared on ABC's "Good Morning America" program, which sent a crew to broadcast live from the Operation Christmas site. The morning show has covered two of the events, and plans to cover the final one in Savannah, Ga., next week.
"You can never show enough support of troops," said Morgan Zalkin, GMA producer. "We wanted to let them know that we weren't just thinking of the troops in the field, but also their families back home."
"I don't know how you can't support the troops," said GMA correspondent Mike Barz, an Army "brat" whose grandfather fought in three wars. "Regardless of how you feel about the war, you should support the servicemembers."
Brooke Army Medical Center Commander Brig. Gen. James Gilman thanked everyone for their efforts in support of military members and their family and emphasized the importance of America's continued support.
"Organizations like Operation Homefront and Operation Comfort and businesses that help do this type of an event are indicators that Americans understand how hard it is to be a warrior or the family of one," he said. "Our wounded warriors work really hard. I'm not sure people understand how hard it is to get up, endure pain and fatigue, and stay motivated.
"Support like this keeps them going, keeps them carrying on."
Chris Hansen, a wounded warrior injured a year ago by two roadside bombs in Iraq, said the support was much appreciated, particularly as he transitions to civilian life.
"I didn't expect this; it's a surprise," said the father of five children, all under age 8. "I wasn't able to afford much for my kids this year, so this means a lot."
(Elaine Wilson is assigned to the Fort Sam Houston Public Information Office.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Military Writers adds first three
Military-Writers.com, a website listing current, former and active United States Military personnel who have authored books, added its first three military writers: Richard Huffman, Chuck Chambers and Raymond Foster.
Richard Neal Huffman was born the son of a sharecropper. At the age of two his parents migrated to southwest Michigan. At 20, Richard was drafted into the United States Army where he served as a medic. He completed a tour of duty in the Panama Canal Zone where he was assigned as an ambulance driver for the 601st Medical Detachment of the United States Southern Command. In the regular Army, Richard was an E-4. After discharge, he joined the Michigan Army National Guard and later the Army Reserves. In the guard he was both a medic and tank crewmen. Richard joined the Bangor Police Department and throughout his career he would serve as a patrol officer, training officer, sergeant, detective and assistant chief of police. Richard’s first book, “Dreams in Blue: The Real Police,” is an autobiographical journey that takes the reader inside the world of the small town cop. He introduces the reader to people, situations, and a culture that is both interesting and unique. Richard’s second book, “Rubal,” is a fictional account of a Union soldier during the Civil War.
A former police officer for the city of Palmetto (Florida), Chuck Chambers is the Chief investigator and owner of Chambers Investigations. In 1965, Chuck Chambers joined the United States Marine Corps and held a position in the Anti Tank Battalion. In his book, The Private Investigator Handbook: The Do-It-Yourself Guide to Protect Yourself, Get Justice, or Get Even, he shares his insider expertise, with true case histories from his files, tricks of the trade, and step-by-step advice to help readers be able to: Catch a cheating spouse; Uncover hidden assets, monetary malfeasance, and fraud; Tail and track a mark; Use the Internet to get information on anything and anyone; Protect one's privacy; Prepare an intelligence file on anyone-on and off line; and, Find and preserve legal evidence.
Raymond E. Foster retired at the rank of lieutenant from the Los Angeles Police Department after 24 years of service. He served in the United States Coast Guard as a radioman from 1976 to 1982. He has a BA in criminal justice, masters in public administration and is currently working on his PhD. Raymond’s first book, Police Technology, has been adopted by over 100 colleges and universities. His second book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, is schedule to be published next year. His current writing projects include an introduction to policing text book and a book on marketing.
In addition to hosting current, former and retired military personnel who have written books, Military-Writers.com is building and extensive web-based directory of military personnel who own businesses.
Richard Neal Huffman was born the son of a sharecropper. At the age of two his parents migrated to southwest Michigan. At 20, Richard was drafted into the United States Army where he served as a medic. He completed a tour of duty in the Panama Canal Zone where he was assigned as an ambulance driver for the 601st Medical Detachment of the United States Southern Command. In the regular Army, Richard was an E-4. After discharge, he joined the Michigan Army National Guard and later the Army Reserves. In the guard he was both a medic and tank crewmen. Richard joined the Bangor Police Department and throughout his career he would serve as a patrol officer, training officer, sergeant, detective and assistant chief of police. Richard’s first book, “Dreams in Blue: The Real Police,” is an autobiographical journey that takes the reader inside the world of the small town cop. He introduces the reader to people, situations, and a culture that is both interesting and unique. Richard’s second book, “Rubal,” is a fictional account of a Union soldier during the Civil War.
A former police officer for the city of Palmetto (Florida), Chuck Chambers is the Chief investigator and owner of Chambers Investigations. In 1965, Chuck Chambers joined the United States Marine Corps and held a position in the Anti Tank Battalion. In his book, The Private Investigator Handbook: The Do-It-Yourself Guide to Protect Yourself, Get Justice, or Get Even, he shares his insider expertise, with true case histories from his files, tricks of the trade, and step-by-step advice to help readers be able to: Catch a cheating spouse; Uncover hidden assets, monetary malfeasance, and fraud; Tail and track a mark; Use the Internet to get information on anything and anyone; Protect one's privacy; Prepare an intelligence file on anyone-on and off line; and, Find and preserve legal evidence.
Raymond E. Foster retired at the rank of lieutenant from the Los Angeles Police Department after 24 years of service. He served in the United States Coast Guard as a radioman from 1976 to 1982. He has a BA in criminal justice, masters in public administration and is currently working on his PhD. Raymond’s first book, Police Technology, has been adopted by over 100 colleges and universities. His second book, Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style, is schedule to be published next year. His current writing projects include an introduction to policing text book and a book on marketing.
In addition to hosting current, former and retired military personnel who have written books, Military-Writers.com is building and extensive web-based directory of military personnel who own businesses.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Wreaths Encourage Remembering Fallen Heroes
By Jim Garamone
Dec. 14, 2006 – Morrill Worcester was 12 years old and on his first trip outside of Maine when he first visited this shrine to America's heroes. He vowed then that he would always honor America's veterans, and he has kept that promise. Worcester now owns Worcester Wreaths, in Harrington, Maine. He began placing wreaths on graves at Arlington in 1992. "We need to remember these veterans who have done so much for America," he said as he handed out wreaths from a tractor trailer this morning. "We need to honor them."
In the past, about 150 to 200 people have helped place the wreaths. This year, Worcester wanted to expand the wreath project. He enlisted the help of the Civil Air Patrol and reached out across the United States to place wreaths on graves in all 50 states.
The Patriot Guard Riders, a group of motorcycle riders that provides honor guards at military funerals, escorted the truck carrying the wreaths to Arlington from Maine. Thousands of volunteers met at the cemetery this morning to help place the wreaths. Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines joined with schoolchildren, Boy Scouts and members of the Civil Air Patrol.
Police and firefighters also came to pay their respects to the veterans.
A heavy fog enshrouded the effort, and water dripped from trees and on stones. As volunteers were placing wreaths, an Army honor platoon, color guard and caisson bearing a flag-covered-coffin went past. Military volunteers stopped working and saluted. Civilians working with them placed their hands over their hearts before going back to work.
"The whole thing is overwhelming," said Karen Worcester, Morrill's wife.
Pat Mackin, the mother of Navy Lt. Michael M. McGreevey, a SEAL killed in Afghanistan, thanked the Worcesters for their efforts. "It's nice to know people remember," Mackin told Karen Worcester.
"Don't thank me," Worcester said. "Thank you for your son and all you have gone through and given us all."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Dec. 14, 2006 – Morrill Worcester was 12 years old and on his first trip outside of Maine when he first visited this shrine to America's heroes. He vowed then that he would always honor America's veterans, and he has kept that promise. Worcester now owns Worcester Wreaths, in Harrington, Maine. He began placing wreaths on graves at Arlington in 1992. "We need to remember these veterans who have done so much for America," he said as he handed out wreaths from a tractor trailer this morning. "We need to honor them."
In the past, about 150 to 200 people have helped place the wreaths. This year, Worcester wanted to expand the wreath project. He enlisted the help of the Civil Air Patrol and reached out across the United States to place wreaths on graves in all 50 states.
The Patriot Guard Riders, a group of motorcycle riders that provides honor guards at military funerals, escorted the truck carrying the wreaths to Arlington from Maine. Thousands of volunteers met at the cemetery this morning to help place the wreaths. Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines joined with schoolchildren, Boy Scouts and members of the Civil Air Patrol.
Police and firefighters also came to pay their respects to the veterans.
A heavy fog enshrouded the effort, and water dripped from trees and on stones. As volunteers were placing wreaths, an Army honor platoon, color guard and caisson bearing a flag-covered-coffin went past. Military volunteers stopped working and saluted. Civilians working with them placed their hands over their hearts before going back to work.
"The whole thing is overwhelming," said Karen Worcester, Morrill's wife.
Pat Mackin, the mother of Navy Lt. Michael M. McGreevey, a SEAL killed in Afghanistan, thanked the Worcesters for their efforts. "It's nice to know people remember," Mackin told Karen Worcester.
"Don't thank me," Worcester said. "Thank you for your son and all you have gone through and given us all."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Arctic Wolves' Dedicate Wall Honoring Fallen Comrades
By Donna Miles
Dec. 13, 2006 – The Arctic Wolves bid an emotional farewell to 36 of their own yesterday as they gathered here to dedicate the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Memorial Wall. Leaders from the unit joined about 25 family members of the fallen in the atrium of the high-tech Battle Command Training Center here to remember 26 Stryker Brigade troops and 10 soldiers from units attached the brigade during its deployment. Another 150 brigade soldiers just back from a 16-month deployment to Iraq watched the ceremony in an overflow room on a large-screen TV.
Col. Michael Shields, the brigade commander, acknowledged the "incredible price" his troops paid in Iraq. "These men and women paid the ultimate sacrifice in places like Mosul, Tal Afar, Rawa and Baghdad," he said. "They died serving their nation, their unit and, I think more accurately, their fellow soldiers," he said.
Those who died were among the small percentage of Americans who have served and fought the war on terror, he said. "While most Americans don't understand the great evil that exists, that threatens our very existence and the security of our children's future, these soldiers did," he said. "They were all volunteers."
Rather than focusing on how these soldiers died, Shields urged those at the ceremony to use it as an opportunity to celebrate how they lived. "This group of warriors consisted of hunters, fishermen, outdoorsmen, mountain climbers, snowboarders, skiers, musicians, cowboys, philosophers, athletes, pilots and so much more," he said.
"These soldiers were someone's best friend, leader, son, brother, fiance, husband and dad," he said. "Several of them left children that will never know their father."
Chaplain (Maj.) Robert Nay opened the ceremony with an invocation expressing thanks for "these brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice" and asking for comfort for their families, friends and comrades.
Then Shields and Command Sgt. Maj. William Ulibarri, the brigade command sergeant major, unveiled the memorial, with 36 framed photos of the fallen. In front of the wall stood a memorial stand, with a pair of combat boots, Kevlar helmet, goggles and an M4A1 rifle with bayonet. Thirty-six dog tags with the names of the fallen hung from the rifle.
Nay explained the symbolism of the memorial and how it helps tell the story of those it honors.
"The memorial stand with the boots, weapon and helmet stand (is) alone, empty (to) remind us of the ultimate sacrifice," he said. The headgear represents the soldier's ability to think, react, learn and lead. The rifle symbolizes the battle soldier's face, and the cover on the bayonet, the peace they want. The boots are meant "to carry us wherever our country leads us," Nay said. The dog tags represent the personal aspect of the losses and the soldiers "who are loved and deeply missed ... and will never be forgotten," he said.
"The faces you see before you represent the human nature of war," Nay said. "These men and women remind us that freedom is not free and that it is their shed blood that allows our nation and, more specifically, our families, to pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, which is the American dream."
Troops attending yesterday's ceremony called it a fitting tribute to their fallen comrades and a lasting reminder of the sacrifices they made.
Among those at the ceremony was Sgt. Robert Sult, from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, who lost four fellow soldiers in Iraq, including his roommate and best friend, Spc. Raymond Henry.
"I think of Henry every day. He meant so much to me. He was the best friend I ever had," Sult said. "We learned a lot from each other, and I know he can touch other people, too. On this memorial wall, he can still show people what it's like to serve his country and just do the right thing."
Sgt. 1st Class Cole Shepherd, who served in the brigade's rear detachment during the deployment, called putting together the memorial wall an act of healing for everyone involved and a way to serve those who didn't return home. Shepherd and three other soldiers took extra pains to make sure it was perfect, including making the frames for the photos at the post craft shop when the ones they bought simply didn't measure up.
"This represents what our lives are about in the Army and the ultimate sacrifice we make for the freedoms our friends and families enjoy every day," he said.
Sgt. David Ferguson, from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, called the losses the unit took, particularly after the Army extended the unit's deployment by four months, devastating to the unit. "We were so close to coming back, so it hit us all really hard," he said.
But like many of his fellow Arctic Wolves, Ferguson said losing their buddies made them more committed to their mission. "It's really hard on you for awhile; it's kind of hard to get used to not seeing them anymore," he said. "But once you do start going back out (on missions), you remember that for the rest of the time, you're there for them, to fight for their honor."
After the ceremony, family members approached the wall, taking pictures and gathering with soldiers and commanders who knew their loved ones. Jesse Alcozer, father of Pfc. Christopher Alcozer, wore a "Vietnam Veteran" hat as he approached his son's photo and placed his hand on the corner of the wooden plaque. The 36 dog tags clinked as relatives rifled through them, looking for the name of their soldier. Families heard funny stories or memorable moments of their soldiers from those who had served with them in Iraq.
"As you pay tribute in your own way today, leave this hall with your head high, proud of these soldiers' service to their country," Shields told the families and his 172nd Stryker BCT soldiers in closing. "That is what these warriors would want you to do."
He recalled the saying that soldiers never truly die until they are forgotten. "Arctic Wolves, you will never be forgotten," he said.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Dec. 13, 2006 – The Arctic Wolves bid an emotional farewell to 36 of their own yesterday as they gathered here to dedicate the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team Memorial Wall. Leaders from the unit joined about 25 family members of the fallen in the atrium of the high-tech Battle Command Training Center here to remember 26 Stryker Brigade troops and 10 soldiers from units attached the brigade during its deployment. Another 150 brigade soldiers just back from a 16-month deployment to Iraq watched the ceremony in an overflow room on a large-screen TV.
Col. Michael Shields, the brigade commander, acknowledged the "incredible price" his troops paid in Iraq. "These men and women paid the ultimate sacrifice in places like Mosul, Tal Afar, Rawa and Baghdad," he said. "They died serving their nation, their unit and, I think more accurately, their fellow soldiers," he said.
Those who died were among the small percentage of Americans who have served and fought the war on terror, he said. "While most Americans don't understand the great evil that exists, that threatens our very existence and the security of our children's future, these soldiers did," he said. "They were all volunteers."
Rather than focusing on how these soldiers died, Shields urged those at the ceremony to use it as an opportunity to celebrate how they lived. "This group of warriors consisted of hunters, fishermen, outdoorsmen, mountain climbers, snowboarders, skiers, musicians, cowboys, philosophers, athletes, pilots and so much more," he said.
"These soldiers were someone's best friend, leader, son, brother, fiance, husband and dad," he said. "Several of them left children that will never know their father."
Chaplain (Maj.) Robert Nay opened the ceremony with an invocation expressing thanks for "these brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice" and asking for comfort for their families, friends and comrades.
Then Shields and Command Sgt. Maj. William Ulibarri, the brigade command sergeant major, unveiled the memorial, with 36 framed photos of the fallen. In front of the wall stood a memorial stand, with a pair of combat boots, Kevlar helmet, goggles and an M4A1 rifle with bayonet. Thirty-six dog tags with the names of the fallen hung from the rifle.
Nay explained the symbolism of the memorial and how it helps tell the story of those it honors.
"The memorial stand with the boots, weapon and helmet stand (is) alone, empty (to) remind us of the ultimate sacrifice," he said. The headgear represents the soldier's ability to think, react, learn and lead. The rifle symbolizes the battle soldier's face, and the cover on the bayonet, the peace they want. The boots are meant "to carry us wherever our country leads us," Nay said. The dog tags represent the personal aspect of the losses and the soldiers "who are loved and deeply missed ... and will never be forgotten," he said.
"The faces you see before you represent the human nature of war," Nay said. "These men and women remind us that freedom is not free and that it is their shed blood that allows our nation and, more specifically, our families, to pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, which is the American dream."
Troops attending yesterday's ceremony called it a fitting tribute to their fallen comrades and a lasting reminder of the sacrifices they made.
Among those at the ceremony was Sgt. Robert Sult, from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, who lost four fellow soldiers in Iraq, including his roommate and best friend, Spc. Raymond Henry.
"I think of Henry every day. He meant so much to me. He was the best friend I ever had," Sult said. "We learned a lot from each other, and I know he can touch other people, too. On this memorial wall, he can still show people what it's like to serve his country and just do the right thing."
Sgt. 1st Class Cole Shepherd, who served in the brigade's rear detachment during the deployment, called putting together the memorial wall an act of healing for everyone involved and a way to serve those who didn't return home. Shepherd and three other soldiers took extra pains to make sure it was perfect, including making the frames for the photos at the post craft shop when the ones they bought simply didn't measure up.
"This represents what our lives are about in the Army and the ultimate sacrifice we make for the freedoms our friends and families enjoy every day," he said.
Sgt. David Ferguson, from 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, called the losses the unit took, particularly after the Army extended the unit's deployment by four months, devastating to the unit. "We were so close to coming back, so it hit us all really hard," he said.
But like many of his fellow Arctic Wolves, Ferguson said losing their buddies made them more committed to their mission. "It's really hard on you for awhile; it's kind of hard to get used to not seeing them anymore," he said. "But once you do start going back out (on missions), you remember that for the rest of the time, you're there for them, to fight for their honor."
After the ceremony, family members approached the wall, taking pictures and gathering with soldiers and commanders who knew their loved ones. Jesse Alcozer, father of Pfc. Christopher Alcozer, wore a "Vietnam Veteran" hat as he approached his son's photo and placed his hand on the corner of the wooden plaque. The 36 dog tags clinked as relatives rifled through them, looking for the name of their soldier. Families heard funny stories or memorable moments of their soldiers from those who had served with them in Iraq.
"As you pay tribute in your own way today, leave this hall with your head high, proud of these soldiers' service to their country," Shields told the families and his 172nd Stryker BCT soldiers in closing. "That is what these warriors would want you to do."
He recalled the saying that soldiers never truly die until they are forgotten. "Arctic Wolves, you will never be forgotten," he said.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Military Health Care Making Advances
By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
Dec. 13, 2006 – The military has made tremendous advances in health care in the last decade and specifically since the start of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the top Defense Department official for health care said here yesterday. Body armor, eyewear, new surgical techniques and improved medical data collection in this conflict have all contributed to the lowest "killed-in-action" rate in history, Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said in a roundtable discussion with retired military analysts.
The killed-in-action rate for operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom is 12.5 percent, vs. 18.6 percent for the first Gulf War and Vietnam, and 25.3 percent for World War II, he said. The killed-in-action percentage measures the number of servicemembers killed out of the number wounded.
"Basic stuff is making a difference. Obviously, it doesn't save every injury, but it mitigates a lot of the injuries," Winkenwerder said.
As of Dec. 2, 23,119 servicemembers had been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, he said. Of those, 55 percent returned to duty within 72 hours, he pointed out. "People miss that, and I think it's an important thing," he said.
Winkenwerder pointed out some other surprising statistics: of the 37,058 servicemembers medically evacuated from the U.S. Central Command area of operations as of Dec. 4, 59 percent have been for disease and 21 percent for non-battle injuries; also, as of Nov. 1, the war on terror has produced 760 amputees, of which 500 lost a limb, hand or foot, and 260 lost fingers or toes only.
A major issue in this conflict has been post traumatic stress disorder, Winkenwerder noted. The best statistics on PTSD come from an Army study done on soldiers and Marines returning from their first or second rotations in Iraq or Afghanistan, in which the rate of servicemembers who screened positive for PTSD on a questionnaire was 12 percent, he said. He noted, however, that the pre-deployment rate of PTSD was about 7 or 8 percent.
To provide better mental health care for servicemembers, the military now does a pre-deployment screening, a post-deployment screening, and a follow-up screening three to six months after troops return, Winkenwerder said. This follow-up assessment is important, because many troops don't report problems right after a deployment, but these problems surface later, he said.
These extra assessments give military officials more data to work with when analyzing mental health trends and developing new programs to help servicemembers, Winkenwerder said.
"It's a real profile of what's going on with our people that we did not used to have, and it's allowed us to develop new programs to reach out where the need is," he said. "I think they're making a difference; we've gotten very good feedback."
Another area that has seen notable progress is amputee rehabilitation, Winkenwerder said. Of the total number of amputees, 25 percent have been returned to duty. "The spirit there is unbelievable," he said.
More improvements are on the way for military health care, as the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is built in Bethesda, Md., Winkenwerder said. The building will be next to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and across the street from the National Institute of Health, creating a collaborative environment that will lead to new and better health care for troops, he said.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Dec. 13, 2006 – The military has made tremendous advances in health care in the last decade and specifically since the start of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the top Defense Department official for health care said here yesterday. Body armor, eyewear, new surgical techniques and improved medical data collection in this conflict have all contributed to the lowest "killed-in-action" rate in history, Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said in a roundtable discussion with retired military analysts.
The killed-in-action rate for operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom is 12.5 percent, vs. 18.6 percent for the first Gulf War and Vietnam, and 25.3 percent for World War II, he said. The killed-in-action percentage measures the number of servicemembers killed out of the number wounded.
"Basic stuff is making a difference. Obviously, it doesn't save every injury, but it mitigates a lot of the injuries," Winkenwerder said.
As of Dec. 2, 23,119 servicemembers had been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan, he said. Of those, 55 percent returned to duty within 72 hours, he pointed out. "People miss that, and I think it's an important thing," he said.
Winkenwerder pointed out some other surprising statistics: of the 37,058 servicemembers medically evacuated from the U.S. Central Command area of operations as of Dec. 4, 59 percent have been for disease and 21 percent for non-battle injuries; also, as of Nov. 1, the war on terror has produced 760 amputees, of which 500 lost a limb, hand or foot, and 260 lost fingers or toes only.
A major issue in this conflict has been post traumatic stress disorder, Winkenwerder noted. The best statistics on PTSD come from an Army study done on soldiers and Marines returning from their first or second rotations in Iraq or Afghanistan, in which the rate of servicemembers who screened positive for PTSD on a questionnaire was 12 percent, he said. He noted, however, that the pre-deployment rate of PTSD was about 7 or 8 percent.
To provide better mental health care for servicemembers, the military now does a pre-deployment screening, a post-deployment screening, and a follow-up screening three to six months after troops return, Winkenwerder said. This follow-up assessment is important, because many troops don't report problems right after a deployment, but these problems surface later, he said.
These extra assessments give military officials more data to work with when analyzing mental health trends and developing new programs to help servicemembers, Winkenwerder said.
"It's a real profile of what's going on with our people that we did not used to have, and it's allowed us to develop new programs to reach out where the need is," he said. "I think they're making a difference; we've gotten very good feedback."
Another area that has seen notable progress is amputee rehabilitation, Winkenwerder said. Of the total number of amputees, 25 percent have been returned to duty. "The spirit there is unbelievable," he said.
More improvements are on the way for military health care, as the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is built in Bethesda, Md., Winkenwerder said. The building will be next to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and across the street from the National Institute of Health, creating a collaborative environment that will lead to new and better health care for troops, he said.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and police and military personnel who have become writers.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Soldier's Mother, Coworkers Send Cheer to Troops
By Master Sgt. Doug Sample, USA
Dec. 12, 2006 – Soldiers with the 277th Aviation Support Battalion will have a brighter Christmas, thanks to one soldier's mother and the generosity of her co-workers. Nancy Ward, the mother of Sgt. 1st Class James Foley, recently organized a gift drive at her work, the Reston, Va., office of Texas-based Electronic Data Systems Corporation. Ward and her coworkers donated hundreds of dollars for small gifts that were later stuffed into gift bags and shipped to soldiers serving here.
"My mother is extremely patriotic and is always asking me if she can do anything to help the Soldiers," Foley explained. "And the fact that she works with a government contractor means that most of (her coworkers) are prior military or military affiliated."
Ward said the idea of providing gifts to the troops originated after she decided to send a few personal items to her son serving in Afghanistan. "I wanted to send him some supplies, such as deodorant, eye drops, shampoo, candy, books, etc.," she explained. "And at one point, he asked me to help him get some small gifts for his soldiers so they could have a nice Christmas."
Ward took her son's request a step further, mentioning the idea to fellow EDS employees. Soon, contributions came pouring in from employees at the company's Atlanta office as well. "I mentioned what I was doing for my son to a couple of my friends at work, and they said they wanted to help out," she said. "At EDS, our employees actively engage in community-service projects around the world. We are proud of our U.S. servicemen and women, and many of my co-workers were looking for ways to help out the troops and to show our support for them."
What started out with just Ward and a few friends quickly grew into a team of more than 100 EDS employees who stepped up to contribute gifts and personal supplies for troops stationed here.
"Any cash received was used for postage, packaging and mailing expenses," Ward said. She added that knowing she and fellow employees are helping make the holidays special for a few deployed troops is a great feeling.
"I did this for love -- for my son," she explained. "But I'm the 'mom' for every soldier serving our country everywhere. I am happy that my son could help to distribute some small gifts to the troops, and I'm proud to work for a company like EDS where people are always ready to pitch in to help others. The teamwork really makes a difference.
"I am proud of everyone - the soldiers, my EDS co-workers and the U.S.A. for caring enough to help around the world," Ward added.
Meanwhile, Foley has his hands full handing out the gift bags packed with toiletries, small games, candy and other edibles.
"I was very proud of my mother when she told me what she did, and a little bit surprised when I found out the amount of presents she collected; she sent 17 cases in all," he said. "Even now, we are still packing gifts for the soldiers."
Foley said most bags will go to soldiers stationed at the unit's remote forward operating bases, located in some of the most hazardous parts of the country.
"Those are the soldiers who we want to help bring the spirit of Christmas to and who will benefit the most," he said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – Soldiers with the 277th Aviation Support Battalion will have a brighter Christmas, thanks to one soldier's mother and the generosity of her co-workers. Nancy Ward, the mother of Sgt. 1st Class James Foley, recently organized a gift drive at her work, the Reston, Va., office of Texas-based Electronic Data Systems Corporation. Ward and her coworkers donated hundreds of dollars for small gifts that were later stuffed into gift bags and shipped to soldiers serving here.
"My mother is extremely patriotic and is always asking me if she can do anything to help the Soldiers," Foley explained. "And the fact that she works with a government contractor means that most of (her coworkers) are prior military or military affiliated."
Ward said the idea of providing gifts to the troops originated after she decided to send a few personal items to her son serving in Afghanistan. "I wanted to send him some supplies, such as deodorant, eye drops, shampoo, candy, books, etc.," she explained. "And at one point, he asked me to help him get some small gifts for his soldiers so they could have a nice Christmas."
Ward took her son's request a step further, mentioning the idea to fellow EDS employees. Soon, contributions came pouring in from employees at the company's Atlanta office as well. "I mentioned what I was doing for my son to a couple of my friends at work, and they said they wanted to help out," she said. "At EDS, our employees actively engage in community-service projects around the world. We are proud of our U.S. servicemen and women, and many of my co-workers were looking for ways to help out the troops and to show our support for them."
What started out with just Ward and a few friends quickly grew into a team of more than 100 EDS employees who stepped up to contribute gifts and personal supplies for troops stationed here.
"Any cash received was used for postage, packaging and mailing expenses," Ward said. She added that knowing she and fellow employees are helping make the holidays special for a few deployed troops is a great feeling.
"I did this for love -- for my son," she explained. "But I'm the 'mom' for every soldier serving our country everywhere. I am happy that my son could help to distribute some small gifts to the troops, and I'm proud to work for a company like EDS where people are always ready to pitch in to help others. The teamwork really makes a difference.
"I am proud of everyone - the soldiers, my EDS co-workers and the U.S.A. for caring enough to help around the world," Ward added.
Meanwhile, Foley has his hands full handing out the gift bags packed with toiletries, small games, candy and other edibles.
"I was very proud of my mother when she told me what she did, and a little bit surprised when I found out the amount of presents she collected; she sent 17 cases in all," he said. "Even now, we are still packing gifts for the soldiers."
Foley said most bags will go to soldiers stationed at the unit's remote forward operating bases, located in some of the most hazardous parts of the country.
"Those are the soldiers who we want to help bring the spirit of Christmas to and who will benefit the most," he said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
PGA Tour Honored For Supporting Troops
By Gerry J. Gilmore
Dec. 12, 2006 – The Defense Department today honored the PGA Tour organization and its network of affiliated golf clubs for their exemplary support of U.S. servicemembers. PGA (Professional Golfers' Association) Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem accepted a special framed plaque signed by Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld from Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communications and public liaison.
Barber said before the presentation that Finchem's organization was the first corporate sponsor of the America Supports You program, a nationwide DoD program that recognizes citizens' support for military men and women deployed worldwide in the global war on terrorism.
"You have become a model program for the America Supports You program," Barber told Finchem, noting 34 corporations are now ASY partners thanks to his organization's efforts.
The PGA Tour-America Supports You partnership provided a new platform to tell even more people about how they can help support U.S. servicemembers, she said. "That gave us an opportunity to reach out to corporate America to say: 'You have a role to play. You can help,'" Barber said
ASY also boasts 238 grassroots groups nationwide, she said.
ASY is a most worthy cause, Finchem said, noting his organization raised $1.2 million this year for U.S. servicemembers and their families. "Our people feel privileged to be involved with America Supports You," Finchem said. "They get a tremendous, positive feeling being able to help a little bit.
"It creates an excitement that they're doing something to help these guys and the women who are putting their lives on the line."
Barber told the audience about Marine Cpl. Joshua C. Watkins, who recently died at age 25 during his second tour in Iraq. Barber then introduced Watkins' mother, Amy Vazquez, who received deafening applause from the 700-plus people in attendance.
Amy, a 51-year-old Jacksonville, Fla., mortgage broker, shared her feelings about the loss of her only son, who died Oct. 21, after being shot by a sniper near Fallujah. "He was a hero," Vazquez said of her son.
She urged Americans to be patient about the war against terrorism. "This is not a war that is going to won quickly," she said. "Terrorism is as big a threat as the threat of nuclear weaponry in the wrong hands."
Vazquez said another terrorist attack on the United States could occur if global terrorism isn't confronted and defeated. "Do you want another 9/11? Because that's what's going to happen if we don't stop them," she said.
Vazquez proudly wears her son's Purple Heart Medal daily. She received $10,000 from the PGA Tour organization to be used for a military scholarship program that's named after her son and administered by the University of North Florida.
"I'm totally excited about what America Supports You is doing for the troops," Vazquez said.
She also praised David A. Pillsbury, president of the PGA Tour golf course properties, who had approached Vazquez to offer the scholarship donation.
Pillsbury said he'd met Vazquez at a recent mortgage brokers' conference in Jacksonville, where she talked about the death of her son. After Vazquez stepped down from the podium, Pillsbury said, he approached her and offered his condolences, as well as a $10,000 donation on behalf of the PGA Tour for the scholarship fund.
"We're so honored and so proud to support Amy in her efforts to create a legacy for her son that will help other men and women in uniform who want to continue their educations," Pillsbury said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – The Defense Department today honored the PGA Tour organization and its network of affiliated golf clubs for their exemplary support of U.S. servicemembers. PGA (Professional Golfers' Association) Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem accepted a special framed plaque signed by Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld from Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for internal communications and public liaison.
Barber said before the presentation that Finchem's organization was the first corporate sponsor of the America Supports You program, a nationwide DoD program that recognizes citizens' support for military men and women deployed worldwide in the global war on terrorism.
"You have become a model program for the America Supports You program," Barber told Finchem, noting 34 corporations are now ASY partners thanks to his organization's efforts.
The PGA Tour-America Supports You partnership provided a new platform to tell even more people about how they can help support U.S. servicemembers, she said. "That gave us an opportunity to reach out to corporate America to say: 'You have a role to play. You can help,'" Barber said
ASY also boasts 238 grassroots groups nationwide, she said.
ASY is a most worthy cause, Finchem said, noting his organization raised $1.2 million this year for U.S. servicemembers and their families. "Our people feel privileged to be involved with America Supports You," Finchem said. "They get a tremendous, positive feeling being able to help a little bit.
"It creates an excitement that they're doing something to help these guys and the women who are putting their lives on the line."
Barber told the audience about Marine Cpl. Joshua C. Watkins, who recently died at age 25 during his second tour in Iraq. Barber then introduced Watkins' mother, Amy Vazquez, who received deafening applause from the 700-plus people in attendance.
Amy, a 51-year-old Jacksonville, Fla., mortgage broker, shared her feelings about the loss of her only son, who died Oct. 21, after being shot by a sniper near Fallujah. "He was a hero," Vazquez said of her son.
She urged Americans to be patient about the war against terrorism. "This is not a war that is going to won quickly," she said. "Terrorism is as big a threat as the threat of nuclear weaponry in the wrong hands."
Vazquez said another terrorist attack on the United States could occur if global terrorism isn't confronted and defeated. "Do you want another 9/11? Because that's what's going to happen if we don't stop them," she said.
Vazquez proudly wears her son's Purple Heart Medal daily. She received $10,000 from the PGA Tour organization to be used for a military scholarship program that's named after her son and administered by the University of North Florida.
"I'm totally excited about what America Supports You is doing for the troops," Vazquez said.
She also praised David A. Pillsbury, president of the PGA Tour golf course properties, who had approached Vazquez to offer the scholarship donation.
Pillsbury said he'd met Vazquez at a recent mortgage brokers' conference in Jacksonville, where she talked about the death of her son. After Vazquez stepped down from the podium, Pillsbury said, he approached her and offered his condolences, as well as a $10,000 donation on behalf of the PGA Tour for the scholarship fund.
"We're so honored and so proud to support Amy in her efforts to create a legacy for her son that will help other men and women in uniform who want to continue their educations," Pillsbury said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Active-Duty Components Make Recruiting Goals
By Jim Garamone
Dec. 12, 2006 – All active-duty components made their recruiting goals in November, Defense Department officials said today. The Army made 105 percent of goal, the Navy 100 percent, the Marine Corps 104 percent, and the Air Force 100 percent.
In raw numbers, the Army goal was 6,150 in November, but the service recruited 6,485 new soldiers. The Navy recruited exactly 2,887; the Marine recruited 2,095 vice a goal of 2,012; and the Air Force recruited exactly 1,877 airmen in November.
The services also are retaining a good number of people. "The active-duty services all started off well, exceeding their overall retention missions right now," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said. "The Navy's overall numbers are below their monthly goal, but they still predict they will meet their goal for the fiscal year."
In the reserves, four of the six components met or exceeded their recruiting goals in November. The Army National Guard had a goal of 4,517 recruits for November. The Guard recruited 5,094 for 113 percent of goal. The Marine Reserve's goal was 535, but the component recruited 547, for 102 percent. The Air Guard hit 115 percent - 655 goal, 752 recruited; and the Air Force Reserve hit just over 100 percent, 434 goal and 436 recruited.
The Army Reserve only made 79 percent of its goal, recruiting 1,888 out of a goal of 2,376; and the Navy Reserve hit 91 percent -- 687 out of a goal of 755.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – All active-duty components made their recruiting goals in November, Defense Department officials said today. The Army made 105 percent of goal, the Navy 100 percent, the Marine Corps 104 percent, and the Air Force 100 percent.
In raw numbers, the Army goal was 6,150 in November, but the service recruited 6,485 new soldiers. The Navy recruited exactly 2,887; the Marine recruited 2,095 vice a goal of 2,012; and the Air Force recruited exactly 1,877 airmen in November.
The services also are retaining a good number of people. "The active-duty services all started off well, exceeding their overall retention missions right now," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said. "The Navy's overall numbers are below their monthly goal, but they still predict they will meet their goal for the fiscal year."
In the reserves, four of the six components met or exceeded their recruiting goals in November. The Army National Guard had a goal of 4,517 recruits for November. The Guard recruited 5,094 for 113 percent of goal. The Marine Reserve's goal was 535, but the component recruited 547, for 102 percent. The Air Guard hit 115 percent - 655 goal, 752 recruited; and the Air Force Reserve hit just over 100 percent, 434 goal and 436 recruited.
The Army Reserve only made 79 percent of its goal, recruiting 1,888 out of a goal of 2,376; and the Navy Reserve hit 91 percent -- 687 out of a goal of 755.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Canada, Australia, U.K. Sign Joint Strike Fighter Agreements
By Jim Garamone
Dec. 12, 2006 – With the first flight of the Joint Strike Fighter set for this week, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia have "re-enlisted" for the program. Canada signed on for the project's production, sustainment and follow-on development phase during a Pentagon ceremony here yesterday. Australia signed on today as part of the U.S.-Australia ministerial meetings at the State Department, and the United Kingdom signed at a Pentagon ceremony today.
The Joint Strike Fighter is the Defense Department's program for a "multi-role" stealth air-to-ground strike aircraft. The Navy, Air Force, Marines and allies are developing the system together.
Canadian Deputy Defense Minister Ward Elcock and U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England signed a memorandum of understanding that calls on Canada to pledge $150 million toward production of the Joint Strike Fighter. Canada already has contributed $150 million to the system-development and demonstration portion of the program.
"This is a very special event, because it is a very special partnership," England said during the ceremony. "The United States and Canada share the strongest possible bonds of friendship, family and fundamental values, as well as a common border."
"The Joint Strike Fighter program represents a revolutionary approach to both aircraft development and international armaments cooperation," Elcock said. "It brings together expertise from many different countries and is, as a result, the single largest fighter aircraft program in the world."
The United Kingdom has been involved with the Joint Strike Fighter program since its inception 10 years ago and is in to the program to the tune of $2 billion. United Kingdom Minister for Defense Procurement Lord Peter Drayson signed a memorandum of understanding early today in the Pentagon.
The deputy defense secretary thanked his British counterpart and praised the way American and British forces work together. "We've had this relationship for a long, long time," England said. "Our forces are engaged today. As we sign this, there's people out there defending freedom together. They do it every day, shoulder to shoulder, and it's the same way our nations are shoulder to shoulder. I'm just delighted that we have brought this to a conclusion today. We look forward to a long relationship with the Joint Strike Fighter program."
The British plan for a total buy of up to 150 short-take-off-and-vertical-landing versions of the aircraft for use on two future aircraft carriers.
Canada also is making a substantial investment in the Joint Strike Fighter program. The Canadians plan to buy 80 F-35 conventional-take-off-and-landing aircraft to replace its CF-18 aircraft. The program, led by Lockheed-Martin, will build three variants of the fighter: a conventional model, a carrier model, and a vertical-take-off-and-landing model. The United States has dubbed the aircraft the F-35 Lightning 2. The Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps will use the three aircraft variants. The F-35 will replace the Air Force's F-16 Falcon, the Navy's and Marine Corps' F/A-18 Hornet, and the Marines' AV-8B Harrier.
Elcock stressed that the program demonstrates how well the United States and Canada can work together. "The program will allow the United States and Canada to continue to benefit from each others' wealth of technology and expertise," he said.
Canada expects to retire its CF-18 fleet sometime after 2017, Elcock said. "Canada needs to explore what it needs from the next generation of fighter aircraft," he said. "Our continued involvement in this project will help us determine our future fighter requirements for the Canadian Forces. Certainly, one capability we know we want to have is interoperability with the United States and our allies."
Australian Defense Minister Brendan Nelson signed the memorandum during a ceremony at the U.S. State Department today. "It is an extremely important day for Australia and our air-defense capability," Nelson said. "The Joint Strike Fighter is most certainly the correct aircraft for Australia in terms of air-to-air combat and its strike capabilities.
"It will see Australia through the next 30 to 40 years. It is a state-of-the-art aircraft, and we look forward very much to the imminent first flight."
Other international partners participating in the program are: the Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, Denmark and Norway. Other nations, including Singapore and Israel, have expressed interest in the program.
Officials say plans call for building more than 2,400 F-35 aircraft by 2027.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – With the first flight of the Joint Strike Fighter set for this week, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia have "re-enlisted" for the program. Canada signed on for the project's production, sustainment and follow-on development phase during a Pentagon ceremony here yesterday. Australia signed on today as part of the U.S.-Australia ministerial meetings at the State Department, and the United Kingdom signed at a Pentagon ceremony today.
The Joint Strike Fighter is the Defense Department's program for a "multi-role" stealth air-to-ground strike aircraft. The Navy, Air Force, Marines and allies are developing the system together.
Canadian Deputy Defense Minister Ward Elcock and U.S. Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England signed a memorandum of understanding that calls on Canada to pledge $150 million toward production of the Joint Strike Fighter. Canada already has contributed $150 million to the system-development and demonstration portion of the program.
"This is a very special event, because it is a very special partnership," England said during the ceremony. "The United States and Canada share the strongest possible bonds of friendship, family and fundamental values, as well as a common border."
"The Joint Strike Fighter program represents a revolutionary approach to both aircraft development and international armaments cooperation," Elcock said. "It brings together expertise from many different countries and is, as a result, the single largest fighter aircraft program in the world."
The United Kingdom has been involved with the Joint Strike Fighter program since its inception 10 years ago and is in to the program to the tune of $2 billion. United Kingdom Minister for Defense Procurement Lord Peter Drayson signed a memorandum of understanding early today in the Pentagon.
The deputy defense secretary thanked his British counterpart and praised the way American and British forces work together. "We've had this relationship for a long, long time," England said. "Our forces are engaged today. As we sign this, there's people out there defending freedom together. They do it every day, shoulder to shoulder, and it's the same way our nations are shoulder to shoulder. I'm just delighted that we have brought this to a conclusion today. We look forward to a long relationship with the Joint Strike Fighter program."
The British plan for a total buy of up to 150 short-take-off-and-vertical-landing versions of the aircraft for use on two future aircraft carriers.
Canada also is making a substantial investment in the Joint Strike Fighter program. The Canadians plan to buy 80 F-35 conventional-take-off-and-landing aircraft to replace its CF-18 aircraft. The program, led by Lockheed-Martin, will build three variants of the fighter: a conventional model, a carrier model, and a vertical-take-off-and-landing model. The United States has dubbed the aircraft the F-35 Lightning 2. The Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps will use the three aircraft variants. The F-35 will replace the Air Force's F-16 Falcon, the Navy's and Marine Corps' F/A-18 Hornet, and the Marines' AV-8B Harrier.
Elcock stressed that the program demonstrates how well the United States and Canada can work together. "The program will allow the United States and Canada to continue to benefit from each others' wealth of technology and expertise," he said.
Canada expects to retire its CF-18 fleet sometime after 2017, Elcock said. "Canada needs to explore what it needs from the next generation of fighter aircraft," he said. "Our continued involvement in this project will help us determine our future fighter requirements for the Canadian Forces. Certainly, one capability we know we want to have is interoperability with the United States and our allies."
Australian Defense Minister Brendan Nelson signed the memorandum during a ceremony at the U.S. State Department today. "It is an extremely important day for Australia and our air-defense capability," Nelson said. "The Joint Strike Fighter is most certainly the correct aircraft for Australia in terms of air-to-air combat and its strike capabilities.
"It will see Australia through the next 30 to 40 years. It is a state-of-the-art aircraft, and we look forward very much to the imminent first flight."
Other international partners participating in the program are: the Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, Denmark and Norway. Other nations, including Singapore and Israel, have expressed interest in the program.
Officials say plans call for building more than 2,400 F-35 aircraft by 2027.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
New Evaluation Brigade to Test Emerging Warfighter Technologies
By Donna Miles
Dec. 12, 2006 – A new brigade here will test some of the most revolutionary concepts and systems being developed for future warfighters, report how they operate under field conditions, and ultimately speed their fielding to troops on the battlefield. The new Evaluation Brigade Combat Team being stood up here will test 18 major systems being developed for the Army's Future Combat Systems program, explained Col. Michael Wadsworth, chief of training and leader development for the Future Force Integration Directorate here.
"This is the most ambitious and far-reaching modernization the Army has had since World War II," he said.
The program's goal, Wadsworth explained, is to tap into the most advanced technologies possible "to enable soldiers and leaders to see the enemy first and understand his intentions.
"And once we understand what the enemy is going to do," he added, "we can act first and finish decisively, which is the whole notion of the Future Combat System."
The FCS will offer soldiers detailed battlefield information, provided through an advanced data and communications network to give them the upper hand in combat. By knowing what the enemy is up to, FCS-equipped brigade combat teams will be able "to act first on their own initiative to defeat the enemy on terms favorable to us," Wadsworth said.
The Future Force Integration Directorate is establishing a blueprint for that future force as it stands up the new Evaluation Brigade Combat Team and uses it as an operational test bed for new systems. Within the next six months, the brigade team is expected to reach its full strength of just under 1,000 troops.
"Basically, we're standing up an organization to inform the Army if (the FCS program) is doing what we think it will do," Wadsworth said.
As the evaluation brigade, the Future Force Integration Directorate is developing the doctrine, organizational structure, training programs, and tactics, techniques and procedures it will need to operate. Like the systems the brigade is testing, this groundwork will be tweaked along the way to ensure it's on target, Wadsworth said.
"We'll hand the brigade the concepts, get feedback and move forward," he said. "The beauty of this is that we'll have actual soldiers on the ground with the equipment, and these soldiers will advise us as we move this concept forward."
The Evaluation BCT will use a mixture of live training, experimentation and simulation to test systems ranging from sensors to automated systems to manned vehicles over the next 10 to 12 years. Testing will be conducted, both here and at neighboring White Sands Missile Range, N.M., through four "spinouts" that will enable the Army to build the new technology over time, Wadsworth said.
During Spinout 1, in fiscal 2008, the evaluation brigade will evaluate five new systems. These include the Intelligent Munitions System; the Tactical Unmanned Ground Sensor, which detects and reports on ground movement; the Urban Unmanned Ground Sensor, which detects motion inside a building; the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System, nicknamed "rockets in a box"; and a battle command surrogate.
The second spinout, in 2010, will test a series of unmanned aerial vehicles. Spinout 3 will test six varieties of unmanned ground vehicles. The final spinout will evaluate eight kinds of manned ground vehicles that operate from a common platform, as well as the network.
The network is evolving incrementally, with additional sensors added to it with each spinout, Wadsworth explained. The goal is a fully capable, fully equipped Future Combat System brigade combat team supported by a state-of-the-art network in 2014.
But the Army doesn't intend to wait until then to get some of the best new technologies being developed to warfighters in the field, Wadsworth said. Some, including unmanned aerial vehicles that can be carried in a backpack and small unmanned ground vehicles that can carry sensors into buildings, caves and other dangerous spots, are already in limited use in the combat theater.
Gen. Peter Schoomaker, Army chief of staff, emphasized the importance of the Future Combat System, and of getting its capabilities into the operational force as quickly as possible, in October during his keynote address at the Association of the U.S. Army convention in Washington.
"The goal is to enable the soldiers to see first, understand first, act first and finish decisively," Schoomaker said. "I want there to be no doubt that we are totally committed to fielding the future force, enabled by the FCS."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – A new brigade here will test some of the most revolutionary concepts and systems being developed for future warfighters, report how they operate under field conditions, and ultimately speed their fielding to troops on the battlefield. The new Evaluation Brigade Combat Team being stood up here will test 18 major systems being developed for the Army's Future Combat Systems program, explained Col. Michael Wadsworth, chief of training and leader development for the Future Force Integration Directorate here.
"This is the most ambitious and far-reaching modernization the Army has had since World War II," he said.
The program's goal, Wadsworth explained, is to tap into the most advanced technologies possible "to enable soldiers and leaders to see the enemy first and understand his intentions.
"And once we understand what the enemy is going to do," he added, "we can act first and finish decisively, which is the whole notion of the Future Combat System."
The FCS will offer soldiers detailed battlefield information, provided through an advanced data and communications network to give them the upper hand in combat. By knowing what the enemy is up to, FCS-equipped brigade combat teams will be able "to act first on their own initiative to defeat the enemy on terms favorable to us," Wadsworth said.
The Future Force Integration Directorate is establishing a blueprint for that future force as it stands up the new Evaluation Brigade Combat Team and uses it as an operational test bed for new systems. Within the next six months, the brigade team is expected to reach its full strength of just under 1,000 troops.
"Basically, we're standing up an organization to inform the Army if (the FCS program) is doing what we think it will do," Wadsworth said.
As the evaluation brigade, the Future Force Integration Directorate is developing the doctrine, organizational structure, training programs, and tactics, techniques and procedures it will need to operate. Like the systems the brigade is testing, this groundwork will be tweaked along the way to ensure it's on target, Wadsworth said.
"We'll hand the brigade the concepts, get feedback and move forward," he said. "The beauty of this is that we'll have actual soldiers on the ground with the equipment, and these soldiers will advise us as we move this concept forward."
The Evaluation BCT will use a mixture of live training, experimentation and simulation to test systems ranging from sensors to automated systems to manned vehicles over the next 10 to 12 years. Testing will be conducted, both here and at neighboring White Sands Missile Range, N.M., through four "spinouts" that will enable the Army to build the new technology over time, Wadsworth said.
During Spinout 1, in fiscal 2008, the evaluation brigade will evaluate five new systems. These include the Intelligent Munitions System; the Tactical Unmanned Ground Sensor, which detects and reports on ground movement; the Urban Unmanned Ground Sensor, which detects motion inside a building; the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System, nicknamed "rockets in a box"; and a battle command surrogate.
The second spinout, in 2010, will test a series of unmanned aerial vehicles. Spinout 3 will test six varieties of unmanned ground vehicles. The final spinout will evaluate eight kinds of manned ground vehicles that operate from a common platform, as well as the network.
The network is evolving incrementally, with additional sensors added to it with each spinout, Wadsworth explained. The goal is a fully capable, fully equipped Future Combat System brigade combat team supported by a state-of-the-art network in 2014.
But the Army doesn't intend to wait until then to get some of the best new technologies being developed to warfighters in the field, Wadsworth said. Some, including unmanned aerial vehicles that can be carried in a backpack and small unmanned ground vehicles that can carry sensors into buildings, caves and other dangerous spots, are already in limited use in the combat theater.
Gen. Peter Schoomaker, Army chief of staff, emphasized the importance of the Future Combat System, and of getting its capabilities into the operational force as quickly as possible, in October during his keynote address at the Association of the U.S. Army convention in Washington.
"The goal is to enable the soldiers to see first, understand first, act first and finish decisively," Schoomaker said. "I want there to be no doubt that we are totally committed to fielding the future force, enabled by the FCS."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Department of Defense and United Kingdom Sign Next Stage Joint Strike Fighter Agreement
Today, Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England and United Kingdom Minister for Defence Procurement Lord Drayson signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to begin future cooperation in the production, sustainment, and follow-on development (PSFD) phase of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program.
The United Kingdom joins Canada, the Netherlands and the United States as the fourth nation to sign the JSF PSFD MOU. Australia also signed on Dec. 12 in a separate ceremony. Denmark, Italy, Norway, and Turkey are scheduled to sign in the near future. This new MOU will expand cooperation among the nine JSF partner nations beyond the ongoing JSF system development and demonstration phase, providing a framework for future JSF Program efforts in production and beyond.
The United Kingdom was the first JSF partner, and is committing over $2 billion dollars to the development phase of the overall JSF program. The U.K. plans to acquire up to 150 short take-off and vertical landing versions of the JSF, and will participate with the U.S. in the JSF aircraft's operational test and evaluation prior to achievement of initial operational capability early in the next decade.
The United Kingdom's signature of the PSFD MOU will continue to strengthen the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, not only in terms of providing air dominance, but also interoperability, defense transformation, modernization, cost reduction, acquisition excellence, and best possible use of the nations' respective industrial bases.
Joint Strike Fighter, as the largest ever U.S. DoD acquisition program, continues to set new standards in development of manufacturing technologies, acquisition and business practices, technology transfer, and export licensing. The first test aircraft is on-track for first flight this week. The JSF Program is providing great opportunities for partner industries through the best value model - selecting manufacturers and maintainers based on a combination of quality, price, and timeliness.
Once the JSF PSFD MOU signing process is completed, the partners will cooperatively develop, produce, test, train and operate a Lightning II JSF Air System that will enhance the interoperability, survivability, and affordability of our future forces. Continued U.K. participation reinforces the longstanding and close relationship between the U.S. and U.K. Armed Forces, providing a solid foundation for future air operations with other allied and friendly nations in a joint and coalition environment.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
The United Kingdom joins Canada, the Netherlands and the United States as the fourth nation to sign the JSF PSFD MOU. Australia also signed on Dec. 12 in a separate ceremony. Denmark, Italy, Norway, and Turkey are scheduled to sign in the near future. This new MOU will expand cooperation among the nine JSF partner nations beyond the ongoing JSF system development and demonstration phase, providing a framework for future JSF Program efforts in production and beyond.
The United Kingdom was the first JSF partner, and is committing over $2 billion dollars to the development phase of the overall JSF program. The U.K. plans to acquire up to 150 short take-off and vertical landing versions of the JSF, and will participate with the U.S. in the JSF aircraft's operational test and evaluation prior to achievement of initial operational capability early in the next decade.
The United Kingdom's signature of the PSFD MOU will continue to strengthen the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, not only in terms of providing air dominance, but also interoperability, defense transformation, modernization, cost reduction, acquisition excellence, and best possible use of the nations' respective industrial bases.
Joint Strike Fighter, as the largest ever U.S. DoD acquisition program, continues to set new standards in development of manufacturing technologies, acquisition and business practices, technology transfer, and export licensing. The first test aircraft is on-track for first flight this week. The JSF Program is providing great opportunities for partner industries through the best value model - selecting manufacturers and maintainers based on a combination of quality, price, and timeliness.
Once the JSF PSFD MOU signing process is completed, the partners will cooperatively develop, produce, test, train and operate a Lightning II JSF Air System that will enhance the interoperability, survivability, and affordability of our future forces. Continued U.K. participation reinforces the longstanding and close relationship between the U.S. and U.K. Armed Forces, providing a solid foundation for future air operations with other allied and friendly nations in a joint and coalition environment.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Web Site Celebrates National Guard Birthday, History
By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
Dec. 12, 2006 – The National Guard turns 370 years old tomorrow, and the National Guard Bureau is celebrating with a Web site dedicated to the organization and its history. The site, www.ngb.army.mil/features/birthday/index.html, chronicles the Guard's history, starting in 1636 when the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which functioned as the colony's legislature, ordered existing militia companies from the towns surrounding Boston to form into three regiments: North, South and East.
"These first Minutemen answered the call, banding together for the common defense, an effort which grew nationwide to protect towns, states, and ultimately the nation from all enemies, civil, natural and foreign," Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, wrote in a letter on the site.
The American colonies adopted the English militia system, which obligated all males to possess arms and participate in the defense of the community, according to the site. The need for a colonial militia was ratified in the Constitution, and since then, Congress has enacted several militia and defense acts to strengthen the National Guard.
"Today, more than 50,000 citizen-soldiers and airmen are serving overseas as part of the global war on terror," Blum wrote in his letter. "Over 9,000 are serving here at home in domestic missions such as supporting our nation's efforts to secure our borders, guarding critical infrastructure, and providing emergency response to our governors.
"Not unlike those Minutemen 370 years ago, today's Guard members are citizens who believe that an organized militia is essential to the common defense. With centuries of courage, commitment and tradition behind them, the National Guard proudly remains always ready, always there."
In a letter commemorating the birthday, Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, thanked the members of the National Guard for serving valiantly in times of war and peace. "We simply could not sustain current operations without the National Guard," Pace wrote. "The courage and sacrifice of every Guard member are truly inspiring. Your outstanding service as citizen-soldiers comforts those in need and protects our homeland."
The National Guard has made up a significant portion of the forces deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. At one point in 2005, half of the combat brigades in Iraq were Army National Guard, according to information on the Web site. The Guard is playing a more active role than ever before, integrating with active forces in combat, humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, information on the site says.
The Web site lists information from each period in the National Guard's history and details on some state-sponsored events commemorating the 370th birthday.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – The National Guard turns 370 years old tomorrow, and the National Guard Bureau is celebrating with a Web site dedicated to the organization and its history. The site, www.ngb.army.mil/features/birthday/index.html, chronicles the Guard's history, starting in 1636 when the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, which functioned as the colony's legislature, ordered existing militia companies from the towns surrounding Boston to form into three regiments: North, South and East.
"These first Minutemen answered the call, banding together for the common defense, an effort which grew nationwide to protect towns, states, and ultimately the nation from all enemies, civil, natural and foreign," Army Lt. Gen. H Steven Blum, chief of the National Guard Bureau, wrote in a letter on the site.
The American colonies adopted the English militia system, which obligated all males to possess arms and participate in the defense of the community, according to the site. The need for a colonial militia was ratified in the Constitution, and since then, Congress has enacted several militia and defense acts to strengthen the National Guard.
"Today, more than 50,000 citizen-soldiers and airmen are serving overseas as part of the global war on terror," Blum wrote in his letter. "Over 9,000 are serving here at home in domestic missions such as supporting our nation's efforts to secure our borders, guarding critical infrastructure, and providing emergency response to our governors.
"Not unlike those Minutemen 370 years ago, today's Guard members are citizens who believe that an organized militia is essential to the common defense. With centuries of courage, commitment and tradition behind them, the National Guard proudly remains always ready, always there."
In a letter commemorating the birthday, Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, thanked the members of the National Guard for serving valiantly in times of war and peace. "We simply could not sustain current operations without the National Guard," Pace wrote. "The courage and sacrifice of every Guard member are truly inspiring. Your outstanding service as citizen-soldiers comforts those in need and protects our homeland."
The National Guard has made up a significant portion of the forces deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. At one point in 2005, half of the combat brigades in Iraq were Army National Guard, according to information on the Web site. The Guard is playing a more active role than ever before, integrating with active forces in combat, humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, information on the site says.
The Web site lists information from each period in the National Guard's history and details on some state-sponsored events commemorating the 370th birthday.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Silver Star Approved for Soldier Who Sacrificed Himself for Crew
Dec. 12, 2006 – Army Pfc. Ross A. McGinnis packed only 136 pounds into his 6-foot frame, but few have ever matched his inner strength. McGinnis sacrificed himself in an act of supreme bravery on Dec. 4, belying his status as the youngest soldier in Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.
The 19-year-old amateur mechanic from Knox, Pa., who enjoyed poker and loud music, likely saved the lives of four soldiers riding with him on a mission in Baghdad.
McGinnis was manning the gunner's hatch when an insurgent tossed a grenade from above. It flew past McGinnis and down through the hatch before lodging near the radio. His platoon sergeant, Sgt. 1st Class Cedric Thomas of Longview, Texas, recalled what happened next.
"Pfc. McGinnis yelled 'Grenade! ... It's in the truck,'" Thomas said. "I looked out of the corner of my eye as I was crouching down and I saw him pin it down." McGinnis did so even though he could have escaped. "He had time to jump out of the truck," Thomas said. "He chose not to."
Thomas remembered McGinnis talking about how he would respond in such a situation. McGinnis said then he didn't know how he would act, but when the time came, he delivered. "He gave his life to save his crew and his platoon sergeant," Thomas said. "He's a hero. He's a professional. He was just an awesome guy."
Three of the soldiers with McGinnis who were wounded that day have returned to duty, while a fourth is recovering in Germany.
For saving the lives of his friends and giving up his own in the process, McGinnis earned the Silver Star. His unit comrades paid their final respects in a somber ceremony here Dec. 11.
McGinnis was born June 14, 1987, and joined the Army right after graduating from high school in 2005. He had been in the Army 18 months and made his mark even before his heroic deed.
"He was a good kid," said C Company's senior enlisted soldier, 1st Sgt. Kenneth J. Hendrix. "He had just gotten approved for a waiver to be promoted to specialist." He also appeared on the Nov. 30 cover of Stars & Stripes, manning his turret.
Besides his military accomplishments, McGinnis leaves his friends and family with memories of a fun-loving, loyal man.
Pfc. Brennan Beck, a 1-26 infantryman from Lodi, Calif., said McGinnis made others feel better. "He would go into a room and when he left, everyone was laughing," Beck said. "He did impersonations of others in the company. He was quick-witted, just hilarious. He loved making people laugh. He was a comedian through and through."
While having a witty side, McGinnis took his job seriously.
"He was not a garrison soldier. He hated it back in garrison," Beck said. "He loved it here in Iraq. He loved being a gunner. It was a thrill; he loved everything about it. He was one our best soldiers. He did a great job."
Beck has memories of talking all night with McGinnis about where they wanted their lives to go, and said McGinnis always remembered his friends. "When I had my appendix removed, he was the only one who visited me in the hospital," Beck said. "That meant a lot."
Another 1-26 infantryman, Pfc. Michael Blair of Klamath Falls, Ore., recalled that McGinnis helped him when he arrived at Ledward Barracks in Schweinfurt, Germany.
"When I first came to the unit, ... he was there and took me in and showed me around," Blair said. "He was real easy to talk to. You could tell him anything. He was a funny guy. He was always making somebody laugh."
McGinnis' final heroic act came as no surprise to Blair. "He was that kind of person," Blair said. "He would rather take it himself than have his buddies go down."
The brigade's senior noncommissioned officer, Command Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, also had high praise for McGinnis. "Any time when you get a soldier to do something like that - to give his life to protect his fellow soldiers - that's what heroes are made of," Johnson said.
It also demonstrates, Johnson continued, that the 'MySpace Generation' has what it takes to carry on the Army's proud traditions.
"Some think soldiers who come in today are all about themselves," Johnson said. "I see it differently."
The Silver Star Medal has been approved for McGinnis's actions Dec. 4, and will be awarded posthumously.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
The 19-year-old amateur mechanic from Knox, Pa., who enjoyed poker and loud music, likely saved the lives of four soldiers riding with him on a mission in Baghdad.
McGinnis was manning the gunner's hatch when an insurgent tossed a grenade from above. It flew past McGinnis and down through the hatch before lodging near the radio. His platoon sergeant, Sgt. 1st Class Cedric Thomas of Longview, Texas, recalled what happened next.
"Pfc. McGinnis yelled 'Grenade! ... It's in the truck,'" Thomas said. "I looked out of the corner of my eye as I was crouching down and I saw him pin it down." McGinnis did so even though he could have escaped. "He had time to jump out of the truck," Thomas said. "He chose not to."
Thomas remembered McGinnis talking about how he would respond in such a situation. McGinnis said then he didn't know how he would act, but when the time came, he delivered. "He gave his life to save his crew and his platoon sergeant," Thomas said. "He's a hero. He's a professional. He was just an awesome guy."
Three of the soldiers with McGinnis who were wounded that day have returned to duty, while a fourth is recovering in Germany.
For saving the lives of his friends and giving up his own in the process, McGinnis earned the Silver Star. His unit comrades paid their final respects in a somber ceremony here Dec. 11.
McGinnis was born June 14, 1987, and joined the Army right after graduating from high school in 2005. He had been in the Army 18 months and made his mark even before his heroic deed.
"He was a good kid," said C Company's senior enlisted soldier, 1st Sgt. Kenneth J. Hendrix. "He had just gotten approved for a waiver to be promoted to specialist." He also appeared on the Nov. 30 cover of Stars & Stripes, manning his turret.
Besides his military accomplishments, McGinnis leaves his friends and family with memories of a fun-loving, loyal man.
Pfc. Brennan Beck, a 1-26 infantryman from Lodi, Calif., said McGinnis made others feel better. "He would go into a room and when he left, everyone was laughing," Beck said. "He did impersonations of others in the company. He was quick-witted, just hilarious. He loved making people laugh. He was a comedian through and through."
While having a witty side, McGinnis took his job seriously.
"He was not a garrison soldier. He hated it back in garrison," Beck said. "He loved it here in Iraq. He loved being a gunner. It was a thrill; he loved everything about it. He was one our best soldiers. He did a great job."
Beck has memories of talking all night with McGinnis about where they wanted their lives to go, and said McGinnis always remembered his friends. "When I had my appendix removed, he was the only one who visited me in the hospital," Beck said. "That meant a lot."
Another 1-26 infantryman, Pfc. Michael Blair of Klamath Falls, Ore., recalled that McGinnis helped him when he arrived at Ledward Barracks in Schweinfurt, Germany.
"When I first came to the unit, ... he was there and took me in and showed me around," Blair said. "He was real easy to talk to. You could tell him anything. He was a funny guy. He was always making somebody laugh."
McGinnis' final heroic act came as no surprise to Blair. "He was that kind of person," Blair said. "He would rather take it himself than have his buddies go down."
The brigade's senior noncommissioned officer, Command Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, also had high praise for McGinnis. "Any time when you get a soldier to do something like that - to give his life to protect his fellow soldiers - that's what heroes are made of," Johnson said.
It also demonstrates, Johnson continued, that the 'MySpace Generation' has what it takes to carry on the Army's proud traditions.
"Some think soldiers who come in today are all about themselves," Johnson said. "I see it differently."
The Silver Star Medal has been approved for McGinnis's actions Dec. 4, and will be awarded posthumously.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Video E-mail Launches for Deployed Soldiers, Families
By Margaret McBride
Dec. 12, 2006 – Soldiers and families can now communicate by video e-mail through the Army Knowledge Online intranet portal. On the first day, more than 3,500 video e-mails were transmitted. "Thank you, that's all I can say," Pvt. Brenden Teetsell of the 44th Signal Battalion e-mailed on Dec. 6. "Thank you for allowing me to see my family. Your technology helps boost not only my morale, but thousands of soldiers a day."
AKO video messaging allows all deployed active-duty, National Guard and Army Reserve soldiers to create video messages on a computer with a Web cam. The message is then stored on a server and sent to the recipient via a link. Upon opening an e-mail, the user clicks on the link to get streaming video and sound. The video-streaming software allows a soldier to hear and view video e-mail even in limited bandwidth environments, but the link can be accessed any time from anywhere.
Instructions are on a link on their AKO home page. Soldiers must follow the same Defense Department security measures used for standard e-mail and are not allowed to use Web cams in secure areas.
Families with an AKO account can send video e-mails from home with a personal computer and a Web cam. They can also use Web cams in many of the yellow-ribbon rooms on military bases. Military bases in deployed locations typically have Web cams available at cyber cafes, officials said.
"Families no longer need to coordinate times to ensure everyone is available to see each other," said Gary L. Winkler, director for governance, acquisition and knowledge in the Army Chief Information Office, who initiated the project.
"This will help geographically separated families stay closer during deployment, and we also expect other benefits from this capability as users become more familiar and comfortable with it," he said.
In the future, Army video e-mail applications could also be used for distance learning and training, recruiting and telemedicine, officials said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – Soldiers and families can now communicate by video e-mail through the Army Knowledge Online intranet portal. On the first day, more than 3,500 video e-mails were transmitted. "Thank you, that's all I can say," Pvt. Brenden Teetsell of the 44th Signal Battalion e-mailed on Dec. 6. "Thank you for allowing me to see my family. Your technology helps boost not only my morale, but thousands of soldiers a day."
AKO video messaging allows all deployed active-duty, National Guard and Army Reserve soldiers to create video messages on a computer with a Web cam. The message is then stored on a server and sent to the recipient via a link. Upon opening an e-mail, the user clicks on the link to get streaming video and sound. The video-streaming software allows a soldier to hear and view video e-mail even in limited bandwidth environments, but the link can be accessed any time from anywhere.
Instructions are on a link on their AKO home page. Soldiers must follow the same Defense Department security measures used for standard e-mail and are not allowed to use Web cams in secure areas.
Families with an AKO account can send video e-mails from home with a personal computer and a Web cam. They can also use Web cams in many of the yellow-ribbon rooms on military bases. Military bases in deployed locations typically have Web cams available at cyber cafes, officials said.
"Families no longer need to coordinate times to ensure everyone is available to see each other," said Gary L. Winkler, director for governance, acquisition and knowledge in the Army Chief Information Office, who initiated the project.
"This will help geographically separated families stay closer during deployment, and we also expect other benefits from this capability as users become more familiar and comfortable with it," he said.
In the future, Army video e-mail applications could also be used for distance learning and training, recruiting and telemedicine, officials said.
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Artists Paint Portraits for Families of Fallen Soldiers
By Rachael Tolliver
Dec. 12, 2006 – Kaziah Hancock, an artist and patriot in Manti, Utah, has put her professional life on hold as a result of channel-surfing on the radio. Now, she devotes most of her time to honoring American soldiers who have died in Middle East combat zones. "I came across a talk show, and they were talking about the accomplishments and the life of James W. Kelly, of Salt Lake (City, Utah). It hit me. ... I became a basket case," she explained in a phone interview with the Fort Knox newspaper. "He was a serviceman who had been killed in Iraq."
At that moment, Hancock decided she wanted to paint a memorial portrait of each U.S. servicemember killed in the line of duty.
"At the time, we had only been in Iraq for a short while, and we had lost 80 people," she said. "We were still expecting a short war."
Hancock called a friend who owns an art gallery that regularly features her work and who had several "connections."
"I told her I wanted to do a portrait for the families of the soldiers killed, and my friend said, 'Those from Utah?' I thought for about 15 seconds," she recalled. "And I said, 'No.' Is the one from Texas any less important to me? Or the one from New York? I told her I wanted to do them all. I wanted to paint the portraits for free, and ship ... all of them."
Hancock's portraits normally range in price from $3,000 to $5,000. After the American Legion did a story about her special project for its magazine, 18 more requests came in. Hancock, whose career as an artist is on hold because she has devoted all her time to this one mission, said she had $5,000 in the bank, and found herself kneeling in prayer and asking God for help.
"Then, I just kept going," she said.
"After (painting) 33 of them, I got the idea to form a non-profit (organization) and people could express their patriotism, donate to this cause, and even get a tax deduction. It's mostly the average person who has contributed to the memory of our service people."
The organization she founded is called Project Compassion, Hancock said.
Other artists contributing to the memorial effort include Ann Marie Oborn, JoAnn Musser, Lane Bradey and Clancy DaVries, all of whom volunteer their time and talent and work only for the cost of their materials.
Although she is always looking for artists who want to help, Hancock screens applicants to make sure that they will fit in as "one of the family."
DeVries is a veteran of the Korean War, where he served in the Navy. "I read about Kaziah in an issue of the American Legion magazine," he recalled. "I called her and told her I would like to try some portraits. She said she had six artists who wanted to participate and she had not heard from anyone. I told her she would hear from me."
"(Painting the portraits) is rewarding because of the people," he said. "I familiarize myself with the soldier, go on the Web, read letters and other correspondence, so I know (the soldier) fairly well. The hardest part is letting go and sending the portrait off."
When a family accepts the organization's offer, they are asked to send a large selection of photographs and correspondence from the soldier so the artists can familiarize themselves with the soldier.
DeVries is working on his 95th portrait.
The Detimples, of Morrisville, Pa., are among the hundreds of families that have received portraits.
Their son, Army Pfc. Nathaniel Detimple, was an infantryman with the 28th Infantry Division, of the Pennsylvania National Guard. He was one of three soldiers killed Aug. 9, 2005, when the Humvee in which they were riding ran over an improvised explosive device.
"About six months later, February or so, we got a letter from Ms. Hancock explaining the portrait and what to do if we wanted one," said Kim Detimple, Nathaniel's mother. "Our Nat was 19. He joined the National Guard while he was still in high school. Staten (Nat's younger brother) did the same thing and joined in his junior year of high school. We just came back from Fort Knox where Staten just graduated from school. He is in the cavalry."
Kim said, and Glen, Nat's father, agreed, that Hancock's portrait, "caught him. She captured him -- his smile and his facial expressions."
"The most important thing (in the portrait) is that she captured my son," Kim continued. "She is a humble person, and that is what struck me. She remembers all of the families, not just our Nat, but all our sons."
Hancock said she thinks of these paintings as hugs. When she dies, she said, there will be pieces of her heart spread out all across the globe. "That says Kaziah cared about these soldiers," she said.
"I think about all I have lost (and how I felt), and I think of those mothers who have lost their sons and daughters," she said. "We have sent the best blood we have in our name. If art is good, it should do some good."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Dec. 12, 2006 – Kaziah Hancock, an artist and patriot in Manti, Utah, has put her professional life on hold as a result of channel-surfing on the radio. Now, she devotes most of her time to honoring American soldiers who have died in Middle East combat zones. "I came across a talk show, and they were talking about the accomplishments and the life of James W. Kelly, of Salt Lake (City, Utah). It hit me. ... I became a basket case," she explained in a phone interview with the Fort Knox newspaper. "He was a serviceman who had been killed in Iraq."
At that moment, Hancock decided she wanted to paint a memorial portrait of each U.S. servicemember killed in the line of duty.
"At the time, we had only been in Iraq for a short while, and we had lost 80 people," she said. "We were still expecting a short war."
Hancock called a friend who owns an art gallery that regularly features her work and who had several "connections."
"I told her I wanted to do a portrait for the families of the soldiers killed, and my friend said, 'Those from Utah?' I thought for about 15 seconds," she recalled. "And I said, 'No.' Is the one from Texas any less important to me? Or the one from New York? I told her I wanted to do them all. I wanted to paint the portraits for free, and ship ... all of them."
Hancock's portraits normally range in price from $3,000 to $5,000. After the American Legion did a story about her special project for its magazine, 18 more requests came in. Hancock, whose career as an artist is on hold because she has devoted all her time to this one mission, said she had $5,000 in the bank, and found herself kneeling in prayer and asking God for help.
"Then, I just kept going," she said.
"After (painting) 33 of them, I got the idea to form a non-profit (organization) and people could express their patriotism, donate to this cause, and even get a tax deduction. It's mostly the average person who has contributed to the memory of our service people."
The organization she founded is called Project Compassion, Hancock said.
Other artists contributing to the memorial effort include Ann Marie Oborn, JoAnn Musser, Lane Bradey and Clancy DaVries, all of whom volunteer their time and talent and work only for the cost of their materials.
Although she is always looking for artists who want to help, Hancock screens applicants to make sure that they will fit in as "one of the family."
DeVries is a veteran of the Korean War, where he served in the Navy. "I read about Kaziah in an issue of the American Legion magazine," he recalled. "I called her and told her I would like to try some portraits. She said she had six artists who wanted to participate and she had not heard from anyone. I told her she would hear from me."
"(Painting the portraits) is rewarding because of the people," he said. "I familiarize myself with the soldier, go on the Web, read letters and other correspondence, so I know (the soldier) fairly well. The hardest part is letting go and sending the portrait off."
When a family accepts the organization's offer, they are asked to send a large selection of photographs and correspondence from the soldier so the artists can familiarize themselves with the soldier.
DeVries is working on his 95th portrait.
The Detimples, of Morrisville, Pa., are among the hundreds of families that have received portraits.
Their son, Army Pfc. Nathaniel Detimple, was an infantryman with the 28th Infantry Division, of the Pennsylvania National Guard. He was one of three soldiers killed Aug. 9, 2005, when the Humvee in which they were riding ran over an improvised explosive device.
"About six months later, February or so, we got a letter from Ms. Hancock explaining the portrait and what to do if we wanted one," said Kim Detimple, Nathaniel's mother. "Our Nat was 19. He joined the National Guard while he was still in high school. Staten (Nat's younger brother) did the same thing and joined in his junior year of high school. We just came back from Fort Knox where Staten just graduated from school. He is in the cavalry."
Kim said, and Glen, Nat's father, agreed, that Hancock's portrait, "caught him. She captured him -- his smile and his facial expressions."
"The most important thing (in the portrait) is that she captured my son," Kim continued. "She is a humble person, and that is what struck me. She remembers all of the families, not just our Nat, but all our sons."
Hancock said she thinks of these paintings as hugs. When she dies, she said, there will be pieces of her heart spread out all across the globe. "That says Kaziah cared about these soldiers," she said.
"I think about all I have lost (and how I felt), and I think of those mothers who have lost their sons and daughters," she said. "We have sent the best blood we have in our name. If art is good, it should do some good."
Article sponsored by Criminal Justice Leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become authors.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Notes Will Have Troops Seeing Stars
By Samantha L. Quigley
Dec. 11, 2006 – Thanks to a partnership with Hollywood Video and Game Craze rental stores in five states, "Tunes 4 the Troops" anticipates sending troops 5,000 DVDs this holiday season. For $1, customers at 26 Hollywood Video stores and 18 Game Craze stores in Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia and the Carolinas can write a note to the troops. Customers can also donate their spare change for the troops.
The money raised in each store will go to buy DVDs to benefit the troops through Tunes 4 the Troops, Kaylee Radzyminski, 15, founder of the Cleveland, Tenn., organization, said.
The venture started because Jonathan Powell, a Hollywood Video district manager for the five states involved, learned of Tunes 4 the Troops' efforts and wanted to help. The stores' goal is to raise $30,000 through the end of the holiday season, which Kaylee said would buy about 5,000 DVDs, CDs and audio for the troops. The current total is about $3,000.
What she sends this holiday season will be in addition to the 10,000 such items she's sent out since starting Tunes 4 the Troops in fall of 2005. She's working toward a goal of 500,000 entertainment items shipped to the troops by the 2008 holiday season, she said.
Her efforts are rewarded with gratitude from the troops that receive her videos, CDs and audio books. "All military personnel around the world are truly grateful for all the support you have given," Army Maj. Johnny Borden e-mailed Kaylee from Kuwait. "In my eyes you have reached (your goal), seeing someone smile with their headphones on at the desk, dancing in their chair.
"Know this, you made an impact and I get to laugh just a little," he added.
Kaylee also helped Tina Rice, founder of the Tennessee-based "Operation Christmas Presence.". She provided Rice a list of armed services chaplains who will distribute Operation Christmas Presence's packages.
Kaylee also seized the opportunity to keep some more troops entertained by including a CD and DVD in each of the boxes Rice sent out. That effort produced more than 1,400 boxes of goodies and entertainment items for the troops.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become writers.
Dec. 11, 2006 – Thanks to a partnership with Hollywood Video and Game Craze rental stores in five states, "Tunes 4 the Troops" anticipates sending troops 5,000 DVDs this holiday season. For $1, customers at 26 Hollywood Video stores and 18 Game Craze stores in Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia and the Carolinas can write a note to the troops. Customers can also donate their spare change for the troops.
The money raised in each store will go to buy DVDs to benefit the troops through Tunes 4 the Troops, Kaylee Radzyminski, 15, founder of the Cleveland, Tenn., organization, said.
The venture started because Jonathan Powell, a Hollywood Video district manager for the five states involved, learned of Tunes 4 the Troops' efforts and wanted to help. The stores' goal is to raise $30,000 through the end of the holiday season, which Kaylee said would buy about 5,000 DVDs, CDs and audio for the troops. The current total is about $3,000.
What she sends this holiday season will be in addition to the 10,000 such items she's sent out since starting Tunes 4 the Troops in fall of 2005. She's working toward a goal of 500,000 entertainment items shipped to the troops by the 2008 holiday season, she said.
Her efforts are rewarded with gratitude from the troops that receive her videos, CDs and audio books. "All military personnel around the world are truly grateful for all the support you have given," Army Maj. Johnny Borden e-mailed Kaylee from Kuwait. "In my eyes you have reached (your goal), seeing someone smile with their headphones on at the desk, dancing in their chair.
"Know this, you made an impact and I get to laugh just a little," he added.
Kaylee also helped Tina Rice, founder of the Tennessee-based "Operation Christmas Presence.". She provided Rice a list of armed services chaplains who will distribute Operation Christmas Presence's packages.
Kaylee also seized the opportunity to keep some more troops entertained by including a CD and DVD in each of the boxes Rice sent out. That effort produced more than 1,400 boxes of goodies and entertainment items for the troops.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become writers.
Schedule Announced for Release of Tax Statements
Dec. 11, 2006 – Servicemembers, military retirees and annuitants, and federal civilian employees paid by the Defense Finance and Accounting Service can expect to receive their 2006 tax statements beginning this month, DFAS officials announced today.
DFAS customers with access to the secure, Web-based "myPay" system will be able to retrieve their tax statements electronically up to two weeks sooner than those relying on regular mail delivery, officials said.
The myPay system includes layers of defense against identity theft, officials noted, adding that its technology meets or exceeds security requirements in private industry worldwide.
"Tax statements are available online, allowing customers to view and print W2s and 1099Rs. Whether anyone needs the statements to complete taxes or just want an extra copy for their records, the tax statements can be accessed and printed at any time," Patrick Shine, DFAS operations director, said. "The printable statements are approved by the Internal Revenue Service."
Here are projected distribution dates for DFAS customers' tax statements:
-- Retiree Annual Statement: Available on myPay Dec. 9, mailed via U.S. Postal Service Dec. 16-31;
-- Retiree 1099R: Available on myPay Dec. 15, mailed Dec. 16-31;
-- Annuitant Account Statement: Available on myPay Dec. 18, mailed Dec. 19-31;
-- Annuitant 1099R: Available on myPay Dec. 18, mailed Dec. 19-31;
-- VSI/SSB W-2: Not available on myPay, mailed Jan. 4-5;
-- Active Duty Air Force, Army, Navy W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 22, mailed Jan. 23-29;
-- Reserve Air Force, Army, Navy W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 2, mailed Jan. 5-8;
-- Marine Corps active and reserve W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 5, mailed Jan. 9-10;
-- Civilian employee W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 9, mailed Jan. 11-18;
-- Savings Deposit Program 1099INT: Available on myPay Jan. 19, mailed Jan. 19-20; and
-- Vendor Pay 1099: Not available on myPay, mailed Jan. 27-31.
Shine added that current myPay account holders can eliminate the costs associated with generating and distributing the tax statements immediately by signing up and using myPay. A personal identification number, or PIN, is required to use the system, and eligible users can apply for one at the myPay Web site, www.mypay.dfas.mil.
Users with military e-mail addresses -addresses in the .mil domain -- or a pre-registered personal e-mail address can receive their new PIN via e-mail. All others will receive their new PIN via mail in about 10 working days from the date of request, officials said.
Customers who already had obtained a PIN but have forgotten it can apply for a new one at the myPay site.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become writers.
DFAS customers with access to the secure, Web-based "myPay" system will be able to retrieve their tax statements electronically up to two weeks sooner than those relying on regular mail delivery, officials said.
The myPay system includes layers of defense against identity theft, officials noted, adding that its technology meets or exceeds security requirements in private industry worldwide.
"Tax statements are available online, allowing customers to view and print W2s and 1099Rs. Whether anyone needs the statements to complete taxes or just want an extra copy for their records, the tax statements can be accessed and printed at any time," Patrick Shine, DFAS operations director, said. "The printable statements are approved by the Internal Revenue Service."
Here are projected distribution dates for DFAS customers' tax statements:
-- Retiree Annual Statement: Available on myPay Dec. 9, mailed via U.S. Postal Service Dec. 16-31;
-- Retiree 1099R: Available on myPay Dec. 15, mailed Dec. 16-31;
-- Annuitant Account Statement: Available on myPay Dec. 18, mailed Dec. 19-31;
-- Annuitant 1099R: Available on myPay Dec. 18, mailed Dec. 19-31;
-- VSI/SSB W-2: Not available on myPay, mailed Jan. 4-5;
-- Active Duty Air Force, Army, Navy W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 22, mailed Jan. 23-29;
-- Reserve Air Force, Army, Navy W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 2, mailed Jan. 5-8;
-- Marine Corps active and reserve W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 5, mailed Jan. 9-10;
-- Civilian employee W-2: Available on myPay Jan. 9, mailed Jan. 11-18;
-- Savings Deposit Program 1099INT: Available on myPay Jan. 19, mailed Jan. 19-20; and
-- Vendor Pay 1099: Not available on myPay, mailed Jan. 27-31.
Shine added that current myPay account holders can eliminate the costs associated with generating and distributing the tax statements immediately by signing up and using myPay. A personal identification number, or PIN, is required to use the system, and eligible users can apply for one at the myPay Web site, www.mypay.dfas.mil.
Users with military e-mail addresses -addresses in the .mil domain -- or a pre-registered personal e-mail address can receive their new PIN via e-mail. All others will receive their new PIN via mail in about 10 working days from the date of request, officials said.
Customers who already had obtained a PIN but have forgotten it can apply for a new one at the myPay site.
Article sponsored by criminal justice leadership; and, military and police personnel who have become writers.
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