By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – After nearly six years in office, the Defense Department's top doctor said he will miss the people of the department who make things happen for servicemembers around the world. In a long-planned decision, Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr. soon will step down as assistant secretary of defense for health affairs and move to a job in the private sector.
President Bush has nominated Dr. S. Ward Casscells to replace Winkenwirder. Casscells is a professor of medicine and public health at the University of Texas Health Science Center, in Houston. The Senate must confirm the doctor before he takes office.
Casscells has served as medical advisor in Baghdad and understands the complexities of the position he is moving into, Winkenwerder said in a Feb. 23 interview with American Forces Press Service.
Winkenwerder said the position is demanding, but rewarding. "It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to work and serve in this position," he said. "It's been a great opportunity and pleasure, and one I never anticipated."
The war on terror has made this a unique time to be assistant secretary for health affairs, Winkenwerder said. "I know that Health Affairs is probably always a hopping place, but I think it has been more of a hopping place in the last five years than it has ever been," he said with a smile.
DoD has been engaged worldwide, and medical support always follows. "I've very proud of the battlefield medicine support," the doctor said. "I'm particularly proud of the advances in mental health and the fact that (seeking mental health care) is less a stigma."
More must be done in this regard, he said, but the military understands the importance of mental health readiness.
Winkenwerder also is pleased that the services have been operating more jointly, he said. The consolidation of Walter Reed Army Medical Center here and the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md., is going well, he said, as is the consolidation of Brooke Army Medical Center and the Air Force's Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio.
In addition, the anthrax vaccination program is going well, and the troops are getting better protection. "In November 2001 we didn't have a licensed anything," Winkenwerder said. "(There was) no production, no contract, and it's running well today."
DoD also has invested almost $1 billion in combating bioterrorism facilities and labs, he said.
The doctor said he is also proud of DoD's efforts to assess servicemembers before and after deployments, "so we know much more clearly what has happened to them during their deployments." Part of this is putting in place the information technology to capture all that data. This also helped as the department put in place the individual medical readiness system. This system standardized the way the services viewed servicemembers' readiness for deployments.
DoD health professionals continue to lead in integrating information technology with new hand-held battlefield systems, he said.
Winkenwerder noted he never served in the military, and this both hindered and helped him. "It took me a while to learn the culture of the place," he said. "You have to balance bringing private-sector ideas (into the military), with a recognition of and respect for the existing culture and the existing way of doing things. What I've learned is there is a certain speed and rhythm of change in a large organization. DoD has such a strong culture, and you have to work within the system to get the system to change."
On the Tricare front, he said the health plan was average-rated when he came into office in 2001. "Now it is one of the top-rated in the country; satisfaction in Tricare has gone up," he said. "We've been able to implement all the new contracts -- some $45 billion worth -- and didn't have procurement problems or scandals."
Health professionals are sometimes the best capability the country has to change peoples' minds about America, Winkenwerder said. Military medics rushed to help the people of the Indian Ocean area affected by the December 2004 tsunami and also helped thousands hurt by the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan. The department also has a $100-million-a-year military-to-military assistance program to help combat HIV/AIDS.
However, Winkenwerder said, he does leave the department with some regrets, he said. In 2006, DoD proposed raising fees for some groups for Tricare membership. The doctor said DoD needs to implement changes in the benefit to create a stable financial foundation for the long run.
"It certainly was my fervent hope that we would advance beyond debate and into action with respect to sustaining the benefit discussion," he said.
"I think that will happen," he said. "I'm reasonably confident because there is a growing realization in DoD and Congress that we have to make some of these adjustments. We can debate about how much and how fast, but the adjustments need to take place. My regret is I didn't think of a better take on that issue so we would be further down the road today."
Winkenwerder said he also wishes he could have spent more time on revising and updating DoD's medical personnel system. He wanted to do more with management of the resource and recruiting and development of leaders. "It's a hard thing to do in government, and there is a need to do more," he said.
He said he thinks most of the people in Iraq and Afghanistan who are on the "medical front lines" of the war on terror. "I've seen so many faces, and whether taking care of one of our own of a child or an insurgent, it's an amazing thing to see our people in action," he said.
"The will of the military is remarkably strong," he continued. "What we have to sustain is the will of the American people. That's going to be a challenge. That's a bit of my concern with the focus on the shortcomings at Water Reed. We need to keep the focus on the problems that are really problems of processing and bureaucracy. They are not problems of medical care or the professionalism of the staff."
The doctor said he believes military medical professionals have "done too many great things for people to conclude that they are not top-notch."
He also believes that the next few years will see a growing cooperation between DoD and the Department of Veterans Affairs and that the department will move to the next stage of electronic health records.
His advice for his successor? "Enjoy this experience," he said. "Take advantage of the opportunity to advance positive changes."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Top American Doctors Visit Military Facilities in Germany
By Staff Sgt. Laura Holzer, USAF
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – Two of the senior doctors in the United States toured Ramstein Air Base and the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany Feb. 19 to 23. Dr. William Plested III, president of the American Medical Association; Dr. J. Edward Hill, former AMA president; and Maj. Gen. Gerald Harmon, assistant to the Air National Guard surgeon general; got a firsthand look at how the military cares for wounded troops.
The AMA unites doctors nationwide and addresses professional and public health issues.
"I'm interested in the care our soldiers are getting," Plested said. "My partner was the first American surgeon in Iraq. He went across with the Marines, and I wanted to see what he was doing while I was minding the store."
Members of the Ramstein medical community educated the doctors on the transporting process, including a tour of a C-130 Hercules used to move patients out of the deployment theater.
"Everyone knows the war is going on and we have a lot of troops getting hurt," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tremayne Neals, an aeromedical evacuation technician. "That's the purpose of this static (display); to show them some of our capabilities for bringing our troops back home."
This aeromedical evacuation process demonstrates a key component of global mobility. During the Vietnam War, it took 45 days to return casualties home. In Operation Desert Storm it took 10. Now it only takes three days, officials said.
"One of the problems we have in the United States is 'hand-offs,'" Hill said. "When a patient is handed off from one care group to another, that's usually when errors occur. With the military, it's a transition so well done that you don't run the risk of those errors and mistakes."
The doctors also toured the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility here and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
"I'm just totally impressed with the medical care that's being given in our military," Plested said. "I think it's giving us a lot of ideas of how we need to change medical care on the civilian side in the states."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – Two of the senior doctors in the United States toured Ramstein Air Base and the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany Feb. 19 to 23. Dr. William Plested III, president of the American Medical Association; Dr. J. Edward Hill, former AMA president; and Maj. Gen. Gerald Harmon, assistant to the Air National Guard surgeon general; got a firsthand look at how the military cares for wounded troops.
The AMA unites doctors nationwide and addresses professional and public health issues.
"I'm interested in the care our soldiers are getting," Plested said. "My partner was the first American surgeon in Iraq. He went across with the Marines, and I wanted to see what he was doing while I was minding the store."
Members of the Ramstein medical community educated the doctors on the transporting process, including a tour of a C-130 Hercules used to move patients out of the deployment theater.
"Everyone knows the war is going on and we have a lot of troops getting hurt," said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tremayne Neals, an aeromedical evacuation technician. "That's the purpose of this static (display); to show them some of our capabilities for bringing our troops back home."
This aeromedical evacuation process demonstrates a key component of global mobility. During the Vietnam War, it took 45 days to return casualties home. In Operation Desert Storm it took 10. Now it only takes three days, officials said.
"One of the problems we have in the United States is 'hand-offs,'" Hill said. "When a patient is handed off from one care group to another, that's usually when errors occur. With the military, it's a transition so well done that you don't run the risk of those errors and mistakes."
The doctors also toured the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility here and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
"I'm just totally impressed with the medical care that's being given in our military," Plested said. "I think it's giving us a lot of ideas of how we need to change medical care on the civilian side in the states."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Military Playing Down Long Runs, Adopting More Diverse Fitness Programs
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – If a little bit of running is good for keeping warfighters in top form, then a lot of running is better, right? "Wrong!" say officials here at the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force have come to recognize that as beneficial as running can be to overall fitness, health and military readiness, too much of a good thing causes injuries that leave troops less fit, less healthy and less ready, Army Lt. Col. Steve Bullock, the center's health promotion policy program manager, told American Forces Press Service.
As a result, the services are tailoring their physical training regimes to reduce the emphasis on "pounding the pavement." Instead, they're replacing regular long-distance runs with other forms of exercise, he said.
The goal is to reduce overuse injuries that translate military-wide to more than 8 million days of limited duty a year, said Keith Hauret, an epidemiologist for the Army's injury prevention program. Fractures, sprains, strains and other musculoskeletal conditions, many resulting from physical training, take an even greater toll on the force in terms of lost- or limited-duty days.
"Injuries have a direct effect on readiness and a soldier's ability to perform his duties, whether in training or while deployed," Hauret said. "It has a direct impact on the soldier's ability to perform, and that has a direct impact on that unit's readiness."
The services' new approach to physical training aims to bring injury rates down while ensuring a fit military force.
"We're not going soft," Bullock said. "What we're doing is increasing the intensity of the training, and the effect on heart, lungs and overall strength is actually better."
The Army, for example, is reducing the miles troops run, breaking soldiers into "ability groups" for distance runs, adding speed drills to its PT regime and substituting grass drills and other forms of exercise for running.
"We have recommended no more than 30 minutes of running, and no more than three or four times a week," Bullock said.
Higher-intensity, shorter-distance runs and interval training increase troops' speed and stamina with less risk of injuries, he said. At the same time, this more balanced approach to PT actually improves their ability to perform in combat.
"What we do in the military is explosive energy," Bullock said. "Soldiers need to be able to move quickly. They need balance and coordination. That's not something they're going to get through lumbering, long, slow runs."
For their running programs, Bullock advises units to incorporate these training elements into their programs:
-- Follow a standardized, gradual and systematic progression of running distance and speed. Begin with lower mileage and intensity, especially in programs for new recruits, people changing units or those returning to PT after time off for leave or an injury.
-- Structure injury-prevention programs to target troops of average or below-average fitness levels who are at the greatest risk of injury, and ensure they're running appropriate mileages.
-- Place troops in ability groups based on PT scores and measure their runs by time, not distance. This will reduce the risk of injury among the least-fit troops without holding back the higher performers.
-- Avoid remedial PT programs that require the least-fit troops to do more training than fit ones. This increases their injury risk, often with little or no improvement in their fitness.
-- Substitute higher-intensity, shorter-distance runs like repeated sprints, "Fartlek" training and other interval training activities for some distance runs.
-- Build in time for troops' bodies to recover and rebuild following demanding PT sessions to reduce the risk of overtraining injuries.
"Injuries are the biggest threat to our forces and our readiness," Bullock said. "Our goal is to help the military understand the burden of injuries and refocus their approach to physical training to reduce injuries in a way that actually improves readiness."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – If a little bit of running is good for keeping warfighters in top form, then a lot of running is better, right? "Wrong!" say officials here at the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force have come to recognize that as beneficial as running can be to overall fitness, health and military readiness, too much of a good thing causes injuries that leave troops less fit, less healthy and less ready, Army Lt. Col. Steve Bullock, the center's health promotion policy program manager, told American Forces Press Service.
As a result, the services are tailoring their physical training regimes to reduce the emphasis on "pounding the pavement." Instead, they're replacing regular long-distance runs with other forms of exercise, he said.
The goal is to reduce overuse injuries that translate military-wide to more than 8 million days of limited duty a year, said Keith Hauret, an epidemiologist for the Army's injury prevention program. Fractures, sprains, strains and other musculoskeletal conditions, many resulting from physical training, take an even greater toll on the force in terms of lost- or limited-duty days.
"Injuries have a direct effect on readiness and a soldier's ability to perform his duties, whether in training or while deployed," Hauret said. "It has a direct impact on the soldier's ability to perform, and that has a direct impact on that unit's readiness."
The services' new approach to physical training aims to bring injury rates down while ensuring a fit military force.
"We're not going soft," Bullock said. "What we're doing is increasing the intensity of the training, and the effect on heart, lungs and overall strength is actually better."
The Army, for example, is reducing the miles troops run, breaking soldiers into "ability groups" for distance runs, adding speed drills to its PT regime and substituting grass drills and other forms of exercise for running.
"We have recommended no more than 30 minutes of running, and no more than three or four times a week," Bullock said.
Higher-intensity, shorter-distance runs and interval training increase troops' speed and stamina with less risk of injuries, he said. At the same time, this more balanced approach to PT actually improves their ability to perform in combat.
"What we do in the military is explosive energy," Bullock said. "Soldiers need to be able to move quickly. They need balance and coordination. That's not something they're going to get through lumbering, long, slow runs."
For their running programs, Bullock advises units to incorporate these training elements into their programs:
-- Follow a standardized, gradual and systematic progression of running distance and speed. Begin with lower mileage and intensity, especially in programs for new recruits, people changing units or those returning to PT after time off for leave or an injury.
-- Structure injury-prevention programs to target troops of average or below-average fitness levels who are at the greatest risk of injury, and ensure they're running appropriate mileages.
-- Place troops in ability groups based on PT scores and measure their runs by time, not distance. This will reduce the risk of injury among the least-fit troops without holding back the higher performers.
-- Avoid remedial PT programs that require the least-fit troops to do more training than fit ones. This increases their injury risk, often with little or no improvement in their fitness.
-- Substitute higher-intensity, shorter-distance runs like repeated sprints, "Fartlek" training and other interval training activities for some distance runs.
-- Build in time for troops' bodies to recover and rebuild following demanding PT sessions to reduce the risk of overtraining injuries.
"Injuries are the biggest threat to our forces and our readiness," Bullock said. "Our goal is to help the military understand the burden of injuries and refocus their approach to physical training to reduce injuries in a way that actually improves readiness."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Celebrities Pause on Red Carpet to Thank Troops
By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – Celebrities attending the 79th Academy Awards last night took time out from posing for the paparazzi and giving dozens of interviews to thank the men and women of the armed forces for their service. Reserve soldiers from the 222nd Broadcast Operations Detachment, based in Los Angeles, donned their dress uniforms to step up to the red carpet outside the Kodak Theatre to record words of encouragement from Hollywood "A-listers" to broadcast to troops deployed around the world.
The unit conducted interviews as part of the Defense Department's America Supports You program. The program recognizes U.S. citizen's support for the military and communicates that to servicemembers and their families at home and abroad.
Army Maj. Lee Reynolds, the unit's commander, said the awards ceremony offered a great opportunity to show servicemembers that the movie industry supports them.
"No matter what people think about politics, there is an overwhelming support for the troops out here," Reynolds said. "We thought this would be a huge morale booster to the troops to get that message out to them."
"I've been in the military and around it most of my life," said Clint Eastwood, who was nominated for directing "Letters from Iwo Jima."
"It's a pleasure to pay tribute to the military, especially our military," said Eastwood, who served three years in the Army after being drafted in 1951.
Will Smith, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Biel, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Helen Mirren, Queen Latifah and Tobey McGuire were just a few who stopped by to give interviews to the Army soldiers taping the pre-show festivities.
"It's really not fun here," dead-panned Robert Downey Jr. as he looked into the camera. "You're better off -- trust me. It's kind of a drag, high-stress -- you wouldn't understand that, would you?
"Seriously, we have much love and respect for what you're doing," Downey said. "We'll see you when you get back with the mission accomplished."
"Pan's Labyrinth" star Doug Jones has firsthand appreciation for the sacrifices of the military and their families. His brother is an airborne Ranger currently serving in the Army.
"I love all of you over there. Thank you for what you're doing for my safety," Jones said. "You're doing something I can't do, and I appreciate you for that. 'Hooah' to all you guys!"
Music legend James Taylor turned his words of encouragement into the familiar tune of a military cadence. "Here we are at Oscar night, hope you dudes are feeling alright. Sound off -- one, two, three, four!"
Award presenter former Vice President Al Gore and his wife, Tipper, offered their words of encouragement as they passed by the cameras.
"Thank you all so much for serving our country. We are more grateful to you than words can express," the former vice president said. "We care about you and your families. Thanks for what you're doing."
Legendary movie director George Lucas encouraged troops to "keep up the good work."
"I know it's tough over there, but keep going," he said. "Persistence will win out," he said.
A few fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous parading down the carpet asked to have their notes of thanks recorded for the troops.
"We wish you were here with us to see whoever you'd like on the red carpet," one woman said. "As far as I'm concerned, you all are my stars. We love you. Stay safe."
The 222nd conducted more 45 interviews from stars and fans alike. The television entertainment program "Access Hollywood" offered up their work space and donated satellite time for the soldiers to send the footage to the Pentagon Channel for distribution to American Forces Networks worldwide.
Word quickly spread along the red carpet that members of the unit were asking for celebrities to sign an album for fellow public affairs troops who are soon to be deployed.
"The book we had (them) sign for the 302nd (Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) was a huge success," said broadcaster Staff Sgt. Addie Collins. "We got great pictures and a wonderful album to send our fellow soldiers as they ship off to Iraq. In fact, the stars were looking for us to see where they should sign.
"This is a tradition we hope continues for years to come," she said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – Celebrities attending the 79th Academy Awards last night took time out from posing for the paparazzi and giving dozens of interviews to thank the men and women of the armed forces for their service. Reserve soldiers from the 222nd Broadcast Operations Detachment, based in Los Angeles, donned their dress uniforms to step up to the red carpet outside the Kodak Theatre to record words of encouragement from Hollywood "A-listers" to broadcast to troops deployed around the world.
The unit conducted interviews as part of the Defense Department's America Supports You program. The program recognizes U.S. citizen's support for the military and communicates that to servicemembers and their families at home and abroad.
Army Maj. Lee Reynolds, the unit's commander, said the awards ceremony offered a great opportunity to show servicemembers that the movie industry supports them.
"No matter what people think about politics, there is an overwhelming support for the troops out here," Reynolds said. "We thought this would be a huge morale booster to the troops to get that message out to them."
"I've been in the military and around it most of my life," said Clint Eastwood, who was nominated for directing "Letters from Iwo Jima."
"It's a pleasure to pay tribute to the military, especially our military," said Eastwood, who served three years in the Army after being drafted in 1951.
Will Smith, Leonardo DiCaprio, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Biel, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Helen Mirren, Queen Latifah and Tobey McGuire were just a few who stopped by to give interviews to the Army soldiers taping the pre-show festivities.
"It's really not fun here," dead-panned Robert Downey Jr. as he looked into the camera. "You're better off -- trust me. It's kind of a drag, high-stress -- you wouldn't understand that, would you?
"Seriously, we have much love and respect for what you're doing," Downey said. "We'll see you when you get back with the mission accomplished."
"Pan's Labyrinth" star Doug Jones has firsthand appreciation for the sacrifices of the military and their families. His brother is an airborne Ranger currently serving in the Army.
"I love all of you over there. Thank you for what you're doing for my safety," Jones said. "You're doing something I can't do, and I appreciate you for that. 'Hooah' to all you guys!"
Music legend James Taylor turned his words of encouragement into the familiar tune of a military cadence. "Here we are at Oscar night, hope you dudes are feeling alright. Sound off -- one, two, three, four!"
Award presenter former Vice President Al Gore and his wife, Tipper, offered their words of encouragement as they passed by the cameras.
"Thank you all so much for serving our country. We are more grateful to you than words can express," the former vice president said. "We care about you and your families. Thanks for what you're doing."
Legendary movie director George Lucas encouraged troops to "keep up the good work."
"I know it's tough over there, but keep going," he said. "Persistence will win out," he said.
A few fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous parading down the carpet asked to have their notes of thanks recorded for the troops.
"We wish you were here with us to see whoever you'd like on the red carpet," one woman said. "As far as I'm concerned, you all are my stars. We love you. Stay safe."
The 222nd conducted more 45 interviews from stars and fans alike. The television entertainment program "Access Hollywood" offered up their work space and donated satellite time for the soldiers to send the footage to the Pentagon Channel for distribution to American Forces Networks worldwide.
Word quickly spread along the red carpet that members of the unit were asking for celebrities to sign an album for fellow public affairs troops who are soon to be deployed.
"The book we had (them) sign for the 302nd (Mobile Public Affairs Detachment) was a huge success," said broadcaster Staff Sgt. Addie Collins. "We got great pictures and a wonderful album to send our fellow soldiers as they ship off to Iraq. In fact, the stars were looking for us to see where they should sign.
"This is a tradition we hope continues for years to come," she said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Chairman Fields Troops' Questions
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff fielded questions Feb. 22 and 23 from active duty, National Guard and Reserve troops in Alaska at the Army's Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, and at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage. The troops asked Marine Gen. Peter Pace about equipment shortfalls in the Guard and Reserve, varying tour lengths among the services, whether there should be a joint force utility uniform for all the services and the possibility of a civilian service corps.
Pace told the troops the budget includes about $21 billion for new equipment for the Guard and Reserve and about $17 billion to fix the equipment that has been broken and damaged. "You end up with about $37-$38 billion over the next five years specifically earmarked for either new or refurbished equipment," he said.
"We could not have, and will not be able to do what this nation needs to do without the Guard and Reserve," he stressed. "We owe these great Americans the same support that we give to our active forces. We need to make sure they're properly resourced - properly manned, properly trained, and properly equipped. So when we ask them to do our nation's business, they are ready to do so."
Pace also said military leaders are taking a good hard look at the way they compensate Guard and Reserve troops in relation to the way they compensate active duty.
"The secretary of defense and the secretaries of the departments clearly understand the value to the nation of the Guard and Reserve," he said. "We're all looking for ways to show that to the Guard and Reserve in a way that keeps the force properly balanced."
Turning to tour lengths, the chairman said he very aware of the concerns troops have over varying deployment lengths between services.
"It drives me nuts when I go sit down at a mess hall table in Baghdad and you sit there and each servicemember sitting around the table is there for a different tour length," he said. "I have spent a lot of time trying to think through how to get us on the right tour length."
Each service's way of deploying and operations tempo determines their tour lengths, he said. "The Marines, for example, are tied to Navy deployment cycles. Navy deployment cycles could be changed also, but when you look at big ships and the kinds of maintenance they need, six to seven months out and then some time back is about right.
"But even if you take away the Navy linkage to the Marines, about 49 percent of the Marine Corps is lance corporals and below, and most of those Marines stay for four-year tours. For the Marine Corps, six- or seven-month tours, followed by 12 months at home, followed by another six- or seven-month tour, gets the Marine Corps more deployed months per four-year enlistment than any other cycle than the Marine Corps can come up with.
"For the Army, which has a lot more senior level leaders in it beyond the first four years," he said, "the cycle could be six months, but when you look at the current requirement for now 25 brigades, and you do the math of traveling over and traveling back and moving equipment around, you end up not having enough force to be able to reduce to six-month tours and still provide the 25 brigades overseas."
The Air Force tour lengths are based on airplane maintenance and the integration of the Air National Guard, Pace said, and "four-month tours are about right for them to get the most efficient use of all their people."
Pace said he understands how troops feel about the unequal tour lengths.
"It's disheartening for the soldier who's there for 12 months looking across the table at an Air Force person who's there for four and a Navy guy or Marine who's there for six or seven," he said. "No matter what you say about all the math and all the science, it doesn't compute when you're sitting in Baghdad trying to figure that out amongst your friends and buddies around the table," he said
One servicemember asked the chairman if he thought there should be one utility uniform for all the services in the joint force. Pace said that although he's pleased with the way the services have worked more closely together since the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 forced them to, he likes each service having its own uniform.
"The joint force is an enormously capable force," he said. "Goldwater-Nichols has done exactly what it should have done with regard to the melding of the force and making us rely on each other, but there are specific ethoses that go with each service."
People who join the Air Force are different from those who join the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, he said, and "the various services' ethos, and how they approach problems, is a great strength of our nation. ... If you believe that having a little bit of internal friction and competition is good, and if you believe that diversity of ideas is healthy, then you want to strengthen the sense of community of each service and have different ethos."
"I like being able to have that service's pride reinforced by the separate uniforms," he said. "I like getting from individuals their own opinions, based on their service experience about what the right way to go is. And after all of that is done, and everybody's thoughts are on the table, and the joint commander makes the decision, then I like the fact that we all get in step and do what we're supposed to do."
Pace pointed out that he helped Marine Gen. Jim Jones, then commandant of the Marine Corps, develop a uniform for the Marines because they wanted to re-establish the uniqueness of the Marine battle uniform. "As a result of which, each of the other services has developed, or is in the process of developing their own uniforms, which I think is the right thing to do," he said.
Another servicemember asked Pace about the possibility of a civilian reserve corps that he heard mentioned in the president's state of the union address. Pace replied that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is working on the details of her plan for such a force.
U.S. leaders would call on the civilian reserve corps, he said, when a foreign nation needs help in building a dam, running an electric plant or city management - the kinds of things that traditionally default to the U.S. military because they're on the ground. The civilian corps would be made up of volunteers who want to provide their expertise in support of our government helping other governments.
"If you look out the next 10, 15, 20 years and the challenges we're going to be facing," Pace said, "it would be so much better if we were able to help countries that are on the cusp of a problem to be able to strengthen themselves now and print terrorism from taking root, rather than having to go in and kick them out and then have to repair the damage and everything else that goes with it. I really am enthusiastic about the opportunity that this concept of a civilian reserve corps presents for the nation."
The civilian reserve force ties in with Pace's belief that all Americans should serve their country.
"All of us who are fortunate through accident of birth to be born in the United States, should find some way to repay our nation," he said. "Not necessarily in uniform, but all youngsters ought to be encouraged to find a way to give back to the nation - whether it's through civic community groups, the Peace Corps or any other number of ways where you take part of your life and you serve your community and your nation in a way that gives back to the nation."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff fielded questions Feb. 22 and 23 from active duty, National Guard and Reserve troops in Alaska at the Army's Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, and at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage. The troops asked Marine Gen. Peter Pace about equipment shortfalls in the Guard and Reserve, varying tour lengths among the services, whether there should be a joint force utility uniform for all the services and the possibility of a civilian service corps.
Pace told the troops the budget includes about $21 billion for new equipment for the Guard and Reserve and about $17 billion to fix the equipment that has been broken and damaged. "You end up with about $37-$38 billion over the next five years specifically earmarked for either new or refurbished equipment," he said.
"We could not have, and will not be able to do what this nation needs to do without the Guard and Reserve," he stressed. "We owe these great Americans the same support that we give to our active forces. We need to make sure they're properly resourced - properly manned, properly trained, and properly equipped. So when we ask them to do our nation's business, they are ready to do so."
Pace also said military leaders are taking a good hard look at the way they compensate Guard and Reserve troops in relation to the way they compensate active duty.
"The secretary of defense and the secretaries of the departments clearly understand the value to the nation of the Guard and Reserve," he said. "We're all looking for ways to show that to the Guard and Reserve in a way that keeps the force properly balanced."
Turning to tour lengths, the chairman said he very aware of the concerns troops have over varying deployment lengths between services.
"It drives me nuts when I go sit down at a mess hall table in Baghdad and you sit there and each servicemember sitting around the table is there for a different tour length," he said. "I have spent a lot of time trying to think through how to get us on the right tour length."
Each service's way of deploying and operations tempo determines their tour lengths, he said. "The Marines, for example, are tied to Navy deployment cycles. Navy deployment cycles could be changed also, but when you look at big ships and the kinds of maintenance they need, six to seven months out and then some time back is about right.
"But even if you take away the Navy linkage to the Marines, about 49 percent of the Marine Corps is lance corporals and below, and most of those Marines stay for four-year tours. For the Marine Corps, six- or seven-month tours, followed by 12 months at home, followed by another six- or seven-month tour, gets the Marine Corps more deployed months per four-year enlistment than any other cycle than the Marine Corps can come up with.
"For the Army, which has a lot more senior level leaders in it beyond the first four years," he said, "the cycle could be six months, but when you look at the current requirement for now 25 brigades, and you do the math of traveling over and traveling back and moving equipment around, you end up not having enough force to be able to reduce to six-month tours and still provide the 25 brigades overseas."
The Air Force tour lengths are based on airplane maintenance and the integration of the Air National Guard, Pace said, and "four-month tours are about right for them to get the most efficient use of all their people."
Pace said he understands how troops feel about the unequal tour lengths.
"It's disheartening for the soldier who's there for 12 months looking across the table at an Air Force person who's there for four and a Navy guy or Marine who's there for six or seven," he said. "No matter what you say about all the math and all the science, it doesn't compute when you're sitting in Baghdad trying to figure that out amongst your friends and buddies around the table," he said
One servicemember asked the chairman if he thought there should be one utility uniform for all the services in the joint force. Pace said that although he's pleased with the way the services have worked more closely together since the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 forced them to, he likes each service having its own uniform.
"The joint force is an enormously capable force," he said. "Goldwater-Nichols has done exactly what it should have done with regard to the melding of the force and making us rely on each other, but there are specific ethoses that go with each service."
People who join the Air Force are different from those who join the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, he said, and "the various services' ethos, and how they approach problems, is a great strength of our nation. ... If you believe that having a little bit of internal friction and competition is good, and if you believe that diversity of ideas is healthy, then you want to strengthen the sense of community of each service and have different ethos."
"I like being able to have that service's pride reinforced by the separate uniforms," he said. "I like getting from individuals their own opinions, based on their service experience about what the right way to go is. And after all of that is done, and everybody's thoughts are on the table, and the joint commander makes the decision, then I like the fact that we all get in step and do what we're supposed to do."
Pace pointed out that he helped Marine Gen. Jim Jones, then commandant of the Marine Corps, develop a uniform for the Marines because they wanted to re-establish the uniqueness of the Marine battle uniform. "As a result of which, each of the other services has developed, or is in the process of developing their own uniforms, which I think is the right thing to do," he said.
Another servicemember asked Pace about the possibility of a civilian reserve corps that he heard mentioned in the president's state of the union address. Pace replied that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is working on the details of her plan for such a force.
U.S. leaders would call on the civilian reserve corps, he said, when a foreign nation needs help in building a dam, running an electric plant or city management - the kinds of things that traditionally default to the U.S. military because they're on the ground. The civilian corps would be made up of volunteers who want to provide their expertise in support of our government helping other governments.
"If you look out the next 10, 15, 20 years and the challenges we're going to be facing," Pace said, "it would be so much better if we were able to help countries that are on the cusp of a problem to be able to strengthen themselves now and print terrorism from taking root, rather than having to go in and kick them out and then have to repair the damage and everything else that goes with it. I really am enthusiastic about the opportunity that this concept of a civilian reserve corps presents for the nation."
The civilian reserve force ties in with Pace's belief that all Americans should serve their country.
"All of us who are fortunate through accident of birth to be born in the United States, should find some way to repay our nation," he said. "Not necessarily in uniform, but all youngsters ought to be encouraged to find a way to give back to the nation - whether it's through civic community groups, the Peace Corps or any other number of ways where you take part of your life and you serve your community and your nation in a way that gives back to the nation."
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Youth ChalleNGe Cadets Tour Pentagon, Capitol
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – For New Orleans native Myeisha Goldston, it's all about the attitude - and she used to have a "b-a-a-a-a-d" one, she confessed. Now, though, her attitude and her life have taken a 180-degree turn. Goldston recently graduated from the first phase of the New Orleans' National Guard Youth ChalleNGe program and was selected to attend the program's spring director's conference and awards ceremony here.
Goldston and about 60 other chosen cadets and their sponsors from the 26 ChalleNGe programs across the U.S. and Puerto Rico toured the Pentagon today and had their photo taken with the Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England.
"It was amazing," Goldston said. This is her first trip to Washington. "I'm a long way from home - I know that."
For the next few days, the group will tour the typical sites in the capital area and get a chance to sample the city's dining and shopping venues.
For Goldston, the "heroes and history" here have impressed her most.
Sporting a subdued green jacket and khaki, starched military-style cargo pants with boots, Goldston represents exactly what the ChalleNGe program is all about.
The Youth ChalleNGe program is a 17-month intervention effort that helps 16- to 18-year-olds turn their lives around and develop the skills to be successful. It incorporates discipline, education and counseling to treat the "whole kid," said Army National Guard Capt. Scott Johnston. He directs one of Louisiana's three ChalleNGe programs.
"They want to change their lives," said Johnston. "They just don't know how."
A few months ago Goldston realized she was on her way to nowhere, she said.
"I was horrible," she said. She was all lies and attitude, she admitted. But, Goldston said, she realized she needed to change if she was going to succeed in life.
The priority: change her attitude. That's exactly what the Youth ChalleNGe program started, she said.
"Whooo, it changed my attitude," she said, and laughed. "It was too important."
Now she understands that if she works hard, good things will come, Goldston said. The baby in a family with five brothers and two sisters, Goldston now goes to school to learn the culinary arts. Her dream is to own her own soul food restaurant.
Her mentor is helping her. The 22-week resident program prepares the cadet to be successful, but for the year following, graduates are assigned a mentor in the community who helps them with their goals. Counselors also follow up with the graduates throughout the year.
It's the mentorship that 17-year-old Mhari Guidry thinks is best about the program.
"They don't just help you while you're there. They help you when you're not there," said the self-described former problem child. Also from Louisiana, Guidry was displaced in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It was then that she joined the program.
Before, Guidry was "destructive and disobedient," she said. Now she wants to join the Air National Guard and plans to attend college. Guidry was impressed with the size of the Pentagon.
"I had no idea it was this big. There are so many hallways," she said wide-eyed.
Since the program began in 1993, more than 62,000 former high school dropouts have graduated from ChalleNGe. The program is funded from both state and federal budgets and it is money well spent, said Johnston.
"Now we have a productive citizen - somebody who is going to go to work, pay taxes and not get in trouble with the law," Johnston said. "This program is perfect for anyone who wants to make a change."
It was change that senior cadet Wayne Geib was looking for when he entered the program seven weeks ago. Kicked out of the house, and with his parents divorced, Geib was facing a dismal future. His parents referred him to the program, Geib said.
"I was very reluctant. I wanted to stay at home and be a bum," he said.
Once kicked out the house for being rebellious, now Geib wants to become the picture of self discipline -- a Marine, hopefully an officer. He excels in the physical requirements and academics of the program.
It was in the academy, Geib said, that he realized his true potential.
"I can do so much more with my life, if I work hard," Geib said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – For New Orleans native Myeisha Goldston, it's all about the attitude - and she used to have a "b-a-a-a-a-d" one, she confessed. Now, though, her attitude and her life have taken a 180-degree turn. Goldston recently graduated from the first phase of the New Orleans' National Guard Youth ChalleNGe program and was selected to attend the program's spring director's conference and awards ceremony here.
Goldston and about 60 other chosen cadets and their sponsors from the 26 ChalleNGe programs across the U.S. and Puerto Rico toured the Pentagon today and had their photo taken with the Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England.
"It was amazing," Goldston said. This is her first trip to Washington. "I'm a long way from home - I know that."
For the next few days, the group will tour the typical sites in the capital area and get a chance to sample the city's dining and shopping venues.
For Goldston, the "heroes and history" here have impressed her most.
Sporting a subdued green jacket and khaki, starched military-style cargo pants with boots, Goldston represents exactly what the ChalleNGe program is all about.
The Youth ChalleNGe program is a 17-month intervention effort that helps 16- to 18-year-olds turn their lives around and develop the skills to be successful. It incorporates discipline, education and counseling to treat the "whole kid," said Army National Guard Capt. Scott Johnston. He directs one of Louisiana's three ChalleNGe programs.
"They want to change their lives," said Johnston. "They just don't know how."
A few months ago Goldston realized she was on her way to nowhere, she said.
"I was horrible," she said. She was all lies and attitude, she admitted. But, Goldston said, she realized she needed to change if she was going to succeed in life.
The priority: change her attitude. That's exactly what the Youth ChalleNGe program started, she said.
"Whooo, it changed my attitude," she said, and laughed. "It was too important."
Now she understands that if she works hard, good things will come, Goldston said. The baby in a family with five brothers and two sisters, Goldston now goes to school to learn the culinary arts. Her dream is to own her own soul food restaurant.
Her mentor is helping her. The 22-week resident program prepares the cadet to be successful, but for the year following, graduates are assigned a mentor in the community who helps them with their goals. Counselors also follow up with the graduates throughout the year.
It's the mentorship that 17-year-old Mhari Guidry thinks is best about the program.
"They don't just help you while you're there. They help you when you're not there," said the self-described former problem child. Also from Louisiana, Guidry was displaced in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It was then that she joined the program.
Before, Guidry was "destructive and disobedient," she said. Now she wants to join the Air National Guard and plans to attend college. Guidry was impressed with the size of the Pentagon.
"I had no idea it was this big. There are so many hallways," she said wide-eyed.
Since the program began in 1993, more than 62,000 former high school dropouts have graduated from ChalleNGe. The program is funded from both state and federal budgets and it is money well spent, said Johnston.
"Now we have a productive citizen - somebody who is going to go to work, pay taxes and not get in trouble with the law," Johnston said. "This program is perfect for anyone who wants to make a change."
It was change that senior cadet Wayne Geib was looking for when he entered the program seven weeks ago. Kicked out of the house, and with his parents divorced, Geib was facing a dismal future. His parents referred him to the program, Geib said.
"I was very reluctant. I wanted to stay at home and be a bum," he said.
Once kicked out the house for being rebellious, now Geib wants to become the picture of self discipline -- a Marine, hopefully an officer. He excels in the physical requirements and academics of the program.
It was in the academy, Geib said, that he realized his true potential.
"I can do so much more with my life, if I work hard," Geib said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Task Force Examines Troop Mental Health Assistance Programs
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Task Force Examines Troop Mental Health Assistance Programs
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Task Force Examines Troop Mental Health Assistance Programs
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 26, 2007 – A special panel of health care officials learned how the military is addressing mental health issues experienced by some troops deployed in support of the global war on terrorism during a series of briefings held here today. The 15-member DoD Task Force on Mental Health is co-chaired by Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Kevin Kiley and Shelley M. MacDermid, professor of child development and family studies and director of the military family research institute at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
The task force was formed through the 2006 National Defense Appropriations Act to examine the current state of military mental health practices and processes.
The panel is now collecting information through visits to multiple military installations, document reviews, specialists' opinions and town hall-style meetings. The panel is scheduled to provide its report to Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in May.
Reservists are assessed for mental health issues during both pre- and post-deployment phases, Army Maj. Clemens Presogna, a nurse and reservist assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort McPherson, Ga., told members of the task force.
"After 90 days of return-to-country, all soldiers who have been mobilized complete a post-deployment health re-assessment," Presogna explained, "which is another screening tool used to identify medical and mental-health issues that soldiers may have suffered from during their deployment phase."
The Army Reserve also conducts chaplain-sponsored post-deployment rest programs for both returning married troops and single soldiers, said Army Col. Sumathy Reddy, a doctor of internal medicine who's also assigned to the reserve command.
"We've had very good feedback on that," Reddy said. "It basically concentrates on communications skills."
Many mental health issues can be effectively treated, "but they have to be recognized in a timely manner," Reddy pointed out.
Another initiative, the "Battlemind" training system, helps to prepare active and reserve-component soldiers for the stressors of war and also assists with the detection of possible mental health issues before and after deployment, Army Maj. Jeff Thomas, a research psychologist with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said.
Such training is both prudent and necessary, Thomas noted, since studies show that 10 to 15 percent of soldiers develop post-traumatic stress disorder after deployment to Iraq. Instances of PTSD and other mental-health issues experienced by troops who've participated in combat operations usually increase over time, he noted.
Battlemind provides a more focused approach in assessing a soldier's state-of-mind and overall mental health status after deployment to a war zone as compared to previous post-deployment assessments, Thomas said.
Battlemind examines "issues that soldiers and Marines face during different points in the deployment cycle," Thomas explained. Peer-on-peer, or "buddy" discussions about mental health concerns after deployment are an important part of the Battlemind philosophy, Thomas pointed out.
Commanders and noncommissioned officers need to convey the message that it is acceptable for troops to seek out professional help to address self-perceived mental health issues.
"We really need to train and reinforce actions that soldiers, leaders and buddies can take," Thomas said. The Battlemind system, he added, requires "emphasis on looking out for your buddy, and for small-unit leaders to look out for their soldiers."
Another troop mental health assistance initiative is the Combat and Operational Stress Control Program implemented in October 2006 by the Marine Corps Reserve's 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, said Dr. Tania Glenn, a military contractor who co-manages the program.
"This is a Marine-to-Marine advocacy and education program," Glenn explained. "We are teaching Marines how to identify and help other Marines." The COSC program utilizes peer-to-peer discussion and monitoring, she said, to assist in recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental stress and burnout among Marines returning from combat overseas.
Actively discussing mental health issues represents "a culture shift in the Marine Corps," but not a massive change, said Glenn, noting the COSC program could be likened to adding high-potency vitamins to a servicemember's normal field rations.
Returning Marines experiencing heightened emotions caused by "mindset conditioning" during combat tours are provided counseling and assistance while transiting to stateside assignments, Glenn said.
Sponsors of the article include criminal justice online leadership; and, military and police personnel who have written books.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Japanese Ambassador Honors Wounded U.S. Veterans
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 24, 2007 – In Japan, people make origami paper cranes for the sick and injured as a prayer for their recovery. A group of 70 wounded U.S. veterans and their family members found such cranes waiting for them on their dinner tables last night, when they attended a dinner in their honor at the residence of Japanese Ambassador Ryozo Kato.
In welcoming his guests, Kato said they "carry the burden of service to their country," and he thanked them for their "service to the larger ideals that our two countries represent."
Japan is a close ally to the United States, and a close ally in the war on terror, Kato told the audience.
"U.S.-Japanese military relations are in excellent shape," Kato said.
His country's Air Self Defense Force is providing the airlift in Kuwait and Iraq, and the Maritime Self Defense Force in the Indian Ocean has provided coalition forces with oil since the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Kato said.
Kato had just returned from East Asia that morning, where he had met with Vice President Richard B. Cheney in Japan during his week-long tour of the pacific.
"Two days ago, Vice President Cheney received a joint briefing from both the United States and Japanese commanders," he said. "I was there and I was deeply impressed."
Kato said Japan's Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, requested that Kato deliver a message to the audience.
"The grateful people of Japan wish each of you health and success in the years ahead, just as we wish for the nation you serve," Kato said, quoting Abe.
Before dinner began, Kato ended by telling troops that although the two cultures differ, U.S. servicemembers represent Japan's "samurai spirit."
"Samurais serve with valor, with honor, with loyalty, with respectful, ethical behavior," he said. "And so have you."
Despite his long flight the night before, Kato was an energetic host during the event.
"I have never seen an Ambassador so enthusiastic about hosting an event like this," Kimihiro Ishikane, minister head of chancery, said.
In the residence hall before the meal, wounded vets mingled with top brass from the U.S. military and the Japanese Self Defense Forces and other distinguished guests, including Gordon England and Paul Wolfowitz, respectively the current and former deputy secretaries of defense.
The guests then made their way into the dining room and sat around tables adorned with Japanese flower bouquets and strewn with small paper cranes.
"We make a crane to show our deepest compassion," Yuichi Nakai, second secretary of press and information, said. "This evening's dinner is a metaphor for a large paper crane."
Some servicemembers used wheelchairs to move around the ornately decorated residence, others walked on prosthetic legs.
As guests finished their food of traditional Japanese fare, Japanese Col. Tomofusa Harada joined wounded vets in singing a hearty rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," an homage to the sport that both Japanese and Americans consider a national pastime.
During Deputy Secretary England's remarks after dinner, he thanked troops for their sacrifices and presented Kato with two gifts.
"The Ambassador is a great baseball fan; he has his own museum, he has a great collection of baseballs," England said. "But we have two baseballs for you that will turn into the most prized in your collection."
Kato joined England at the podium and accepted two baseballs with the signatures of every wounded servicemember in attendance.
"This is their way of saying thanks for everything you do, especially this event tonight," England said. "These baseballs are signed by real heroes."
The Ambassador thanked England, then presented him with a baseball signed by the Japanese officials in attendance.
"In reciprocating the symbol of equal partnership between Japan and the United States, I would like to give you this," Kato said, handing England one autographed ball.
"Like the U.S. and Japan defense (budget's) percent of the GDP, it is two-to-one," Kato chided as the room erupted in laughter.
The final speaker of the evening was Spc. Maxwell Ramsey, a U.S. soldier wounded in Iraq, who is married to a Japanese woman.
"I share a great enthusiasm and deep gratitude to our Japanese hosts," Ramsey said. "I would like to first thank Ambassador Ryozo and Mrs. Kato; not only is this a foreign country inviting us to celebrate with them, but they've also invited us into their home."
Ramsey said that through his wife's heritage there was an instant connection to the Japanese community here, and it has been instrumental in his recovery.
He then called a toast to "American troops and Japanese troops that served in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan."
"Cheers," and "Kampai" filled the bilingual room, followed by applause after Ramsey announced that he recently learned from his doctors that he is cleared to leave the hospital.
Ramsey will return to duty at Ft. Campbell, Ky. on March 1, exactly one year after he was injured in Ramadi, he said.
As the evening wound down, several Japanese Self Defense Forces officers begin teaching injured servicemembers how to fold origami cranes.
At one table, Pfc. Marissa Stock, a double-leg amputee U.S. army soldier wounded in Iraq, followed Lt. Col. Ichiro Sato's instructions. As her fingers worked, a flat sheet of paper evolved into a bird of flight. Strock looked at it with pride.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 24, 2007 – In Japan, people make origami paper cranes for the sick and injured as a prayer for their recovery. A group of 70 wounded U.S. veterans and their family members found such cranes waiting for them on their dinner tables last night, when they attended a dinner in their honor at the residence of Japanese Ambassador Ryozo Kato.
In welcoming his guests, Kato said they "carry the burden of service to their country," and he thanked them for their "service to the larger ideals that our two countries represent."
Japan is a close ally to the United States, and a close ally in the war on terror, Kato told the audience.
"U.S.-Japanese military relations are in excellent shape," Kato said.
His country's Air Self Defense Force is providing the airlift in Kuwait and Iraq, and the Maritime Self Defense Force in the Indian Ocean has provided coalition forces with oil since the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Kato said.
Kato had just returned from East Asia that morning, where he had met with Vice President Richard B. Cheney in Japan during his week-long tour of the pacific.
"Two days ago, Vice President Cheney received a joint briefing from both the United States and Japanese commanders," he said. "I was there and I was deeply impressed."
Kato said Japan's Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, requested that Kato deliver a message to the audience.
"The grateful people of Japan wish each of you health and success in the years ahead, just as we wish for the nation you serve," Kato said, quoting Abe.
Before dinner began, Kato ended by telling troops that although the two cultures differ, U.S. servicemembers represent Japan's "samurai spirit."
"Samurais serve with valor, with honor, with loyalty, with respectful, ethical behavior," he said. "And so have you."
Despite his long flight the night before, Kato was an energetic host during the event.
"I have never seen an Ambassador so enthusiastic about hosting an event like this," Kimihiro Ishikane, minister head of chancery, said.
In the residence hall before the meal, wounded vets mingled with top brass from the U.S. military and the Japanese Self Defense Forces and other distinguished guests, including Gordon England and Paul Wolfowitz, respectively the current and former deputy secretaries of defense.
The guests then made their way into the dining room and sat around tables adorned with Japanese flower bouquets and strewn with small paper cranes.
"We make a crane to show our deepest compassion," Yuichi Nakai, second secretary of press and information, said. "This evening's dinner is a metaphor for a large paper crane."
Some servicemembers used wheelchairs to move around the ornately decorated residence, others walked on prosthetic legs.
As guests finished their food of traditional Japanese fare, Japanese Col. Tomofusa Harada joined wounded vets in singing a hearty rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," an homage to the sport that both Japanese and Americans consider a national pastime.
During Deputy Secretary England's remarks after dinner, he thanked troops for their sacrifices and presented Kato with two gifts.
"The Ambassador is a great baseball fan; he has his own museum, he has a great collection of baseballs," England said. "But we have two baseballs for you that will turn into the most prized in your collection."
Kato joined England at the podium and accepted two baseballs with the signatures of every wounded servicemember in attendance.
"This is their way of saying thanks for everything you do, especially this event tonight," England said. "These baseballs are signed by real heroes."
The Ambassador thanked England, then presented him with a baseball signed by the Japanese officials in attendance.
"In reciprocating the symbol of equal partnership between Japan and the United States, I would like to give you this," Kato said, handing England one autographed ball.
"Like the U.S. and Japan defense (budget's) percent of the GDP, it is two-to-one," Kato chided as the room erupted in laughter.
The final speaker of the evening was Spc. Maxwell Ramsey, a U.S. soldier wounded in Iraq, who is married to a Japanese woman.
"I share a great enthusiasm and deep gratitude to our Japanese hosts," Ramsey said. "I would like to first thank Ambassador Ryozo and Mrs. Kato; not only is this a foreign country inviting us to celebrate with them, but they've also invited us into their home."
Ramsey said that through his wife's heritage there was an instant connection to the Japanese community here, and it has been instrumental in his recovery.
He then called a toast to "American troops and Japanese troops that served in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan."
"Cheers," and "Kampai" filled the bilingual room, followed by applause after Ramsey announced that he recently learned from his doctors that he is cleared to leave the hospital.
Ramsey will return to duty at Ft. Campbell, Ky. on March 1, exactly one year after he was injured in Ramadi, he said.
As the evening wound down, several Japanese Self Defense Forces officers begin teaching injured servicemembers how to fold origami cranes.
At one table, Pfc. Marissa Stock, a double-leg amputee U.S. army soldier wounded in Iraq, followed Lt. Col. Ichiro Sato's instructions. As her fingers worked, a flat sheet of paper evolved into a bird of flight. Strock looked at it with pride.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
'Gyrenes' Honor Chairman at University Gala in Florida
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – More than 350 former and retired Marines turned out here last night to honor Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Ave Maria University Gyrene Gala. The Gyrene Gala raises scholarship funds for young men and women who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces to attend Ave Maria University.
The term "gyrene" goes back to around 1900, according to Mariion F. Sturkey in her 2001 book, "Warrior Culture of the U.S. Marines." Sailors began using the term as a jocular derogatory reference to Marines. Instead of being insulted, the Marines loved it. The term became common by World War I and has been extensively used ever since.
Retired Marine Gen. Charles C. Krulak, 31st commandant of the Marine Corps, introduced the chairman, noting that he has watched Pace's career grow and flourish over the years. Krulak said Pace cut his teeth as a lieutenant in Vietnam and followed that up with a difficult fight in Somalia as a brigadier general.
"From that tour as a one-star general, Pete began his remarkable rise to become the highest ranking officer in the United States armed forces," Krulak said. "Pete personifies, in every aspect of his service, the type of Marine who fought on Iwo Jima so many years ago."
The chairman is "a superb leader, a great thinker, a true warrior, a solid family man," Krulak continued. "Pete epitomizes today, what I would call, the modern soldier statesman."
Taking the podium, Pace thanked Krulak, who was his first commandant and his boss multiple times during his 40-year career.
"If I stand before you as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, it's because I truly stand on the shoulders of some giants of our corps," Pace said. "It didn't just happen that all of a sudden a United States Marine could be chairman."
Recapping history, Pace recalled Marine Gen. Luis H. Wilson Jr., who fought in the mid 1970s to become a full-fledged member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Goldwater Nichols Act of 1986 which allowed Marines to compete to be regional combatant commanders.
He noted the "incredible performance" of Marines like Gen. Paul X. Kelley, 28th commandant, Gen. Anthony Zinni, who led Central Command, Gen. John J. Sheehan, who commanded what was then the Atlantic Command, and Gen. Charles Wilhelm, who led Southern Command.
"It was their performance in leading joint troops that gave our civilian leaders confidence to pick a Marine to be chairman," Pace said. "Throughout my career in the Corps, I have been surrounded by incredible leaders. All I had to do was keep my feet moving and emulate them to be successful.
"Tonight you honor me in a way that I know for sure, I do not deserve," the chairman said. "But I will accept this on behalf of so many Marines who have taught me so many wonderful things, and today, as the representative of 2.4 million American men and women, active, guard and reserve, who serve this nation to the very best of their ability with great honor and distinction."
During the event, university supporters inducted Pace to their Gallery of Gyrene Greats. He received a plaque in his likeness which will be mounted on the wall of a campus building.
The university created the Gallery of Gyrene Greats to publicly recognize individuals who have achieved success through their embodiment of the Marine Corps ethos. The gallery presents them as positive role models for our students, underscoring the Marine Corps' and the university's shared values of honor, courage and commitment.
Current Gyrene Greats include Krulak, Retired Gen. Carl E. Mundy, Jr., 30th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Jim Lehrer, Host of The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.
Pace was one of five men inducted at the gala. Thomas S. Monaghan, a former Marine who went on to start Domino's Pizza and who now serves as chancellor at Ave Maria University was inducted, as were three civilian honorees who are founders of the the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. They are Arthur L. Allen, president and CEO, Allen Systems Group; Mr. William J. Schoen, chairman, Health Management Associates and Carlton O. Tronvold, retired.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – More than 350 former and retired Marines turned out here last night to honor Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Ave Maria University Gyrene Gala. The Gyrene Gala raises scholarship funds for young men and women who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces to attend Ave Maria University.
The term "gyrene" goes back to around 1900, according to Mariion F. Sturkey in her 2001 book, "Warrior Culture of the U.S. Marines." Sailors began using the term as a jocular derogatory reference to Marines. Instead of being insulted, the Marines loved it. The term became common by World War I and has been extensively used ever since.
Retired Marine Gen. Charles C. Krulak, 31st commandant of the Marine Corps, introduced the chairman, noting that he has watched Pace's career grow and flourish over the years. Krulak said Pace cut his teeth as a lieutenant in Vietnam and followed that up with a difficult fight in Somalia as a brigadier general.
"From that tour as a one-star general, Pete began his remarkable rise to become the highest ranking officer in the United States armed forces," Krulak said. "Pete personifies, in every aspect of his service, the type of Marine who fought on Iwo Jima so many years ago."
The chairman is "a superb leader, a great thinker, a true warrior, a solid family man," Krulak continued. "Pete epitomizes today, what I would call, the modern soldier statesman."
Taking the podium, Pace thanked Krulak, who was his first commandant and his boss multiple times during his 40-year career.
"If I stand before you as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, it's because I truly stand on the shoulders of some giants of our corps," Pace said. "It didn't just happen that all of a sudden a United States Marine could be chairman."
Recapping history, Pace recalled Marine Gen. Luis H. Wilson Jr., who fought in the mid 1970s to become a full-fledged member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Goldwater Nichols Act of 1986 which allowed Marines to compete to be regional combatant commanders.
He noted the "incredible performance" of Marines like Gen. Paul X. Kelley, 28th commandant, Gen. Anthony Zinni, who led Central Command, Gen. John J. Sheehan, who commanded what was then the Atlantic Command, and Gen. Charles Wilhelm, who led Southern Command.
"It was their performance in leading joint troops that gave our civilian leaders confidence to pick a Marine to be chairman," Pace said. "Throughout my career in the Corps, I have been surrounded by incredible leaders. All I had to do was keep my feet moving and emulate them to be successful.
"Tonight you honor me in a way that I know for sure, I do not deserve," the chairman said. "But I will accept this on behalf of so many Marines who have taught me so many wonderful things, and today, as the representative of 2.4 million American men and women, active, guard and reserve, who serve this nation to the very best of their ability with great honor and distinction."
During the event, university supporters inducted Pace to their Gallery of Gyrene Greats. He received a plaque in his likeness which will be mounted on the wall of a campus building.
The university created the Gallery of Gyrene Greats to publicly recognize individuals who have achieved success through their embodiment of the Marine Corps ethos. The gallery presents them as positive role models for our students, underscoring the Marine Corps' and the university's shared values of honor, courage and commitment.
Current Gyrene Greats include Krulak, Retired Gen. Carl E. Mundy, Jr., 30th Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Jim Lehrer, Host of The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.
Pace was one of five men inducted at the gala. Thomas S. Monaghan, a former Marine who went on to start Domino's Pizza and who now serves as chancellor at Ave Maria University was inducted, as were three civilian honorees who are founders of the the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. They are Arthur L. Allen, president and CEO, Allen Systems Group; Mr. William J. Schoen, chairman, Health Management Associates and Carlton O. Tronvold, retired.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Pace Travels: A Little 'Moosenip,' A Lot of Thanks
By Linda D. Kozaryn
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – You've heard of catnip, right? Well, somebody must have sprinkled "moosenip" around the VIP quarters where Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace and his wife Lynne stayed at Alaska's Elmendorf Air Force Base last week. Three full-grown, female moose spent several hours, morning and evening, right outside the quarters, nibbling at low-hanging branches and nestling in the snow catching some rays. The 800- to 900-pound, lanky-legged animals ignored the ever-present security specialists and the comings and goings of SUVs and military vans.
As for the chairman and his wife, the moose maneuvers were a first. But for the couple who spend much of their time traveling the nation and the world, it was just part of their latest adventure. On their last trip, they saw koalas in Australia.
On this trip, Pace and his traveling party crossed the nation more-or-less diagonally, Feb. 21 to 25, visiting Washington state, Oregon, Alaska and Florida. Along with the moose moments, they experienced biting cold, 20-below temperatures at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, and balmy, 75-degree breezes in Naples, Fla.
Along the way, the couple talked with civilian and military leaders, school children and college students, military veterans and on-duty servicemembers. Although the climate, the venues, and the audiences varied greatly, the chairman carried one central message to all "Thank you."
The chairman expressed the military's gratitude to civilian communities for their support of the troops. And, somewhat surprisingly to members of the audiences, the chairman also thanked the nation's press.
"What an incredible outpouring of support and love," Pace told the 1,000 guests at the 30th annual Armed Services YMCA Salute to the Military in Anchorage. He thanked the corporate sponsors of the event as well as local city officials for their support to the troops.
"This community, this state, your contributions to the security of our nation, this gathering tonight where you are showing those of us in uniform how much you appreciate us - it makes a difference. For all of us in uniform, to all of you who are here tonight, paying tribute to us, thank you for your support."
The chairman then said there was another part of this community that needed to be recognized -- employers of the members of the Guard and reserve.
"We quite simply can't do our nation's business without the members of our Guard and reserve," he said. "They are incredibly valued members of the team. Because we value them so highly, there is no doubt in my mind that they have left behind holes in your organizations and your companies that are not easy to fill.
"So to all of you employers of the Guard and reserve here tonight, thank you for your sacrifice in letting these incredible young men and women come serve their country," Pace said. "Your service is to the country is very much appreciated."
Turning to another group, the chairman said members of the press are kind of like lawyers. "It's kind of fun to take a shot at them," he said with a smile. "But when you need a lawyer, you need a lawyer."
"There is no freedom without the free press," Pace said, drawing the crowd's applause in Anchorage. "Those members of the press who work hard to find the truth, and once they're sure they have the truth, they publish it -- God bless you for what you do to protect our Constitution the way that you do."
The chairman also expressed the nation's gratitude to the veterans who answered past calls to serve.
"To all who have served before, thank you, not only for your service, but for the legacy you have given us," Pace said to veterans in Alaska. "You have shown us how to properly serve this nation.
"What overrides the fear of physical harm," he said, "is the fear that those of us who now have the honor of serving this nation, would let down those who went before us. Or, that we would somehow let down the soldier, Marine, airman, sailor or coast guard on our left or our right.
"It is the fear of not performing to the standard set by our veterans that spurs us on to serve this nation the way we do," he said. "So you veterans in this room tonight, thank you, for not only defending this nation during your time in uniform, but in showing us how to do it properly for the decades to come."
During a troop talk with about 750 active duty, National Guard and Reserve troops at Elmendorf AFB, Pace said their efforts are essential to the nation's security.
"The way you've been doing your job up here and deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, has just been fabulous," he said. "I want to say thanks for all you do, all you have done, and unfortunately, for some of the things I'm going to have to ask you to do in the future."
Pace asked the troops to reach out and thank their families for their support.
"Those of us who go in harm's way, know when we're in trouble," he said. "And when we are in trouble, we're normally surrounded by soldiers, Marines, or airmen with rifles, and that's not a bad place to be. But our families don't know that. The whole time we're deployed, they think we're in trouble all the time. They worry about us all the time and they pray for us all the time.
'Then when we come home," Pace continued, "we get awards and they pretend they had nothing to do with it. Whereas, in fact, we all know that keeping the families tied together the way they do is an incredible job, responsibility, sacrifice and service to the nation.
"I believe in my heart that our spouses and their families serve this nation as well as anyone who has ever worn the uniform," he said.
"If you haven't done so recently," he advised the troops, "thank the person who loves you for their support."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – You've heard of catnip, right? Well, somebody must have sprinkled "moosenip" around the VIP quarters where Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace and his wife Lynne stayed at Alaska's Elmendorf Air Force Base last week. Three full-grown, female moose spent several hours, morning and evening, right outside the quarters, nibbling at low-hanging branches and nestling in the snow catching some rays. The 800- to 900-pound, lanky-legged animals ignored the ever-present security specialists and the comings and goings of SUVs and military vans.
As for the chairman and his wife, the moose maneuvers were a first. But for the couple who spend much of their time traveling the nation and the world, it was just part of their latest adventure. On their last trip, they saw koalas in Australia.
On this trip, Pace and his traveling party crossed the nation more-or-less diagonally, Feb. 21 to 25, visiting Washington state, Oregon, Alaska and Florida. Along with the moose moments, they experienced biting cold, 20-below temperatures at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, and balmy, 75-degree breezes in Naples, Fla.
Along the way, the couple talked with civilian and military leaders, school children and college students, military veterans and on-duty servicemembers. Although the climate, the venues, and the audiences varied greatly, the chairman carried one central message to all "Thank you."
The chairman expressed the military's gratitude to civilian communities for their support of the troops. And, somewhat surprisingly to members of the audiences, the chairman also thanked the nation's press.
"What an incredible outpouring of support and love," Pace told the 1,000 guests at the 30th annual Armed Services YMCA Salute to the Military in Anchorage. He thanked the corporate sponsors of the event as well as local city officials for their support to the troops.
"This community, this state, your contributions to the security of our nation, this gathering tonight where you are showing those of us in uniform how much you appreciate us - it makes a difference. For all of us in uniform, to all of you who are here tonight, paying tribute to us, thank you for your support."
The chairman then said there was another part of this community that needed to be recognized -- employers of the members of the Guard and reserve.
"We quite simply can't do our nation's business without the members of our Guard and reserve," he said. "They are incredibly valued members of the team. Because we value them so highly, there is no doubt in my mind that they have left behind holes in your organizations and your companies that are not easy to fill.
"So to all of you employers of the Guard and reserve here tonight, thank you for your sacrifice in letting these incredible young men and women come serve their country," Pace said. "Your service is to the country is very much appreciated."
Turning to another group, the chairman said members of the press are kind of like lawyers. "It's kind of fun to take a shot at them," he said with a smile. "But when you need a lawyer, you need a lawyer."
"There is no freedom without the free press," Pace said, drawing the crowd's applause in Anchorage. "Those members of the press who work hard to find the truth, and once they're sure they have the truth, they publish it -- God bless you for what you do to protect our Constitution the way that you do."
The chairman also expressed the nation's gratitude to the veterans who answered past calls to serve.
"To all who have served before, thank you, not only for your service, but for the legacy you have given us," Pace said to veterans in Alaska. "You have shown us how to properly serve this nation.
"What overrides the fear of physical harm," he said, "is the fear that those of us who now have the honor of serving this nation, would let down those who went before us. Or, that we would somehow let down the soldier, Marine, airman, sailor or coast guard on our left or our right.
"It is the fear of not performing to the standard set by our veterans that spurs us on to serve this nation the way we do," he said. "So you veterans in this room tonight, thank you, for not only defending this nation during your time in uniform, but in showing us how to do it properly for the decades to come."
During a troop talk with about 750 active duty, National Guard and Reserve troops at Elmendorf AFB, Pace said their efforts are essential to the nation's security.
"The way you've been doing your job up here and deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, has just been fabulous," he said. "I want to say thanks for all you do, all you have done, and unfortunately, for some of the things I'm going to have to ask you to do in the future."
Pace asked the troops to reach out and thank their families for their support.
"Those of us who go in harm's way, know when we're in trouble," he said. "And when we are in trouble, we're normally surrounded by soldiers, Marines, or airmen with rifles, and that's not a bad place to be. But our families don't know that. The whole time we're deployed, they think we're in trouble all the time. They worry about us all the time and they pray for us all the time.
'Then when we come home," Pace continued, "we get awards and they pretend they had nothing to do with it. Whereas, in fact, we all know that keeping the families tied together the way they do is an incredible job, responsibility, sacrifice and service to the nation.
"I believe in my heart that our spouses and their families serve this nation as well as anyone who has ever worn the uniform," he said.
"If you haven't done so recently," he advised the troops, "thank the person who loves you for their support."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Ceremony Honors Troops Killed in Persian Gulf War
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – About 160 family members of U.S. troops killed during the Persian Gulf War gathered at an Army officers' club at Fort Myer, Va., today as part of an annual observance to remember fallen loved ones. The 16th annual remembrance ceremony to honor those killed in the Gulf War is sponsored by the White House Commission on Remembrance and the Embassy of the State of Kuwait.
The ceremony was to have been held at Section 60 in Arlington National Cemetery, where many servicemembers killed in the Gulf War lay at rest. However, inclement winter weather caused the ceremony to be moved indoors to Fort Myers, located next to the cemetery.
The United States and more than 20 allied nations fought the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War to remove Iraqi military forces that had invaded Kuwait on August 2, 1990 by then-dictator Saddam Hussein's order. More than 370 U.S. servicemembers died in the conflict.
Navy Adm. Edmund P. Giambastiani, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was one of several senior U.S. and foreign government officials who addressed the families at the event. The admiral said it was an honor "to celebrate not only the service, but of course, the sacrifice of those who fought and died in defense of freedom in the Gulf War."
Giambastiani said remembrance of the fallen is a long-standing American military tradition, and Arlington National Cemetery "is a physical remembrance and an expression of remembrance of service and sacrifice and loss that each of us, every single one of us in uniform carry as part of who we are and why we serve."
Observances of the fallen also help families realize their "yearning and fervent desire to retain the spirit of these loved ones," the four-star admiral said.
"One behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your sacrifice - the greatest one can make," Giambastiani told gathered family members. "I can assume you that we will continue to support and defend the nation for whom they gave the last full measure of devotion."
The remembrance ceremony also illustrates the strong bond of friendship between the people of the United States and Kuwait, Gordon Gray, the U.S. State Department's deputy assistant Secretary of State for the Near East, said.
Since liberation by U.S. and coalition forces at the end of February 1991, Kuwait continues as an appreciated and steadfast ally of the United States, Gordon said. Kuwait has instituted many democratic and economic reforms over recent years in a tumultuous region of the world, Gordon noted, including providing Kuwaiti women the right to vote and run for political office.
The U.S.-Kuwaiti partnership "is embodied by robust political, military and economic ties," Gordon said, noting Kuwait has provided substantial assistance during Operation Iraqi Freedom, to include the provision of troops.
Sheik Salem Abdullah Al Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait's Ambassador to the United States, extended his government's gratitude and that of its people to the United States' military members who died to liberate his country during the Persian Gulf War. Kuwait, he said, has experienced a political and economic rebirth since the late Iraqi dictator's forces were driven out 16 years ago.
"The victory of Operation Desert Storm will never, ever be forgotten," the Kuwaiti ambassador said. "Nothing can make up for the pain you have suffered or bring back your loved ones.
"But, the brave sacrifices of your loved ones were not meaningless or made in vain," he said. "It has meant so much to us Kuwaitis, and to other people in the [Middle East] region."
About 30 families attended the event, said Carmella LaSpada, director of the White House Commission on Remembrance.
Lisa Spain, 42, widow of Army Staff Sgt. William T. Butts, a helicopter door gunner who died in Iraq sixteen years ago, said she was grateful to attend the observance ceremony, wherever it was held.
"It's appreciated and hasn't gone unnoticed," said Spain, who has since remarried and lives in Atlanta. She attended this year's observance with her three daughters, Shannon, 23, and Lindsey, 17, from her marriage to Butts, and 7-year-old Lexi from her present marriage.
Butts died on Feb. 27, 1991, Spain said, during an aerial mission to rescue an Air Force F-16 pilot whose jet had crashed in Iraq. Butts' UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter was shot down by Iraqi forces, she recalled, killing five of the Blackhawk's eight-member crew.
Spain's husband died four hours after a cease-fire had been agreed to by the Iraqi government, she said. His remains are buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 25, 2007 – About 160 family members of U.S. troops killed during the Persian Gulf War gathered at an Army officers' club at Fort Myer, Va., today as part of an annual observance to remember fallen loved ones. The 16th annual remembrance ceremony to honor those killed in the Gulf War is sponsored by the White House Commission on Remembrance and the Embassy of the State of Kuwait.
The ceremony was to have been held at Section 60 in Arlington National Cemetery, where many servicemembers killed in the Gulf War lay at rest. However, inclement winter weather caused the ceremony to be moved indoors to Fort Myers, located next to the cemetery.
The United States and more than 20 allied nations fought the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War to remove Iraqi military forces that had invaded Kuwait on August 2, 1990 by then-dictator Saddam Hussein's order. More than 370 U.S. servicemembers died in the conflict.
Navy Adm. Edmund P. Giambastiani, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was one of several senior U.S. and foreign government officials who addressed the families at the event. The admiral said it was an honor "to celebrate not only the service, but of course, the sacrifice of those who fought and died in defense of freedom in the Gulf War."
Giambastiani said remembrance of the fallen is a long-standing American military tradition, and Arlington National Cemetery "is a physical remembrance and an expression of remembrance of service and sacrifice and loss that each of us, every single one of us in uniform carry as part of who we are and why we serve."
Observances of the fallen also help families realize their "yearning and fervent desire to retain the spirit of these loved ones," the four-star admiral said.
"One behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your sacrifice - the greatest one can make," Giambastiani told gathered family members. "I can assume you that we will continue to support and defend the nation for whom they gave the last full measure of devotion."
The remembrance ceremony also illustrates the strong bond of friendship between the people of the United States and Kuwait, Gordon Gray, the U.S. State Department's deputy assistant Secretary of State for the Near East, said.
Since liberation by U.S. and coalition forces at the end of February 1991, Kuwait continues as an appreciated and steadfast ally of the United States, Gordon said. Kuwait has instituted many democratic and economic reforms over recent years in a tumultuous region of the world, Gordon noted, including providing Kuwaiti women the right to vote and run for political office.
The U.S.-Kuwaiti partnership "is embodied by robust political, military and economic ties," Gordon said, noting Kuwait has provided substantial assistance during Operation Iraqi Freedom, to include the provision of troops.
Sheik Salem Abdullah Al Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait's Ambassador to the United States, extended his government's gratitude and that of its people to the United States' military members who died to liberate his country during the Persian Gulf War. Kuwait, he said, has experienced a political and economic rebirth since the late Iraqi dictator's forces were driven out 16 years ago.
"The victory of Operation Desert Storm will never, ever be forgotten," the Kuwaiti ambassador said. "Nothing can make up for the pain you have suffered or bring back your loved ones.
"But, the brave sacrifices of your loved ones were not meaningless or made in vain," he said. "It has meant so much to us Kuwaitis, and to other people in the [Middle East] region."
About 30 families attended the event, said Carmella LaSpada, director of the White House Commission on Remembrance.
Lisa Spain, 42, widow of Army Staff Sgt. William T. Butts, a helicopter door gunner who died in Iraq sixteen years ago, said she was grateful to attend the observance ceremony, wherever it was held.
"It's appreciated and hasn't gone unnoticed," said Spain, who has since remarried and lives in Atlanta. She attended this year's observance with her three daughters, Shannon, 23, and Lindsey, 17, from her marriage to Butts, and 7-year-old Lexi from her present marriage.
Butts died on Feb. 27, 1991, Spain said, during an aerial mission to rescue an Air Force F-16 pilot whose jet had crashed in Iraq. Butts' UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter was shot down by Iraqi forces, she recalled, killing five of the Blackhawk's eight-member crew.
Spain's husband died four hours after a cease-fire had been agreed to by the Iraqi government, she said. His remains are buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
NORTHCOM Hosts Hurricane-Preparation Conference
By Sgt. 1st Class Gail Braymen, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – Representatives from military and civilian agencies that would provide federal hurricane-relief efforts attended the second annual Hurricane Preparation Conference hosted by U.S. Northern Command at its headquarters yesterday. Participants discussed improving communication and collaboration should the need for federal assistance arise during the 2007 hurricane season.
"It's all about, 'What did we learn the last time and how can we do it better this time?'" said Air Force Maj. Gen. Paul J. Sullivan, chief of staff of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and NORTHCOM. "That's really why we meet on an annual basis in February. If we uncovered something difficult right now, we still have time to react before the heart of the hurricane season."
Conference attendees included officials from the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C., and the adjutants general or their representatives from nine hurricane-prone states on the Gulf and southeastern coasts of the United States. Also attending were leaders from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Army North, 1st Air Force, NORTHCOM and other officials who could be involved in disaster response.
Successful hurricane-relief efforts are built on a partnership among organizations, "and we need all of these partners," said Glenn Cannon, director of FEMA's response division.
"We've all learned that we can't respond to these things and everyone do their own thing," he said. "There has to be a unified response. What these workshops do is give us the chance to not only integrate plans but ... to integrate people."
Every day at FEMA, Cannon said, operations center personnel talk with their counterparts in the operations centers at DHS, the Coast Guard and NORTHCOM.
"That's critical that we share information and we know what's going on, so that we're all on the same page," he said. "The American people are benefited by having a coordinated, unified response to their situation. We have so much that we can use to help people, to save lives and reduce suffering. But if we don't do it in a coordinated way, we won't (accomplish) that mission in the best way possible."
NORTHCOM assets are normally not the first to be called upon for hurricane-relief operations; by law, the command must wait to respond until directed by the president or secretary of defense. Typically, the first uniformed people on the ground at the scene are National Guard soldiers and airmen.
The hurricane-preparation conference allows National Guard leaders to get to know NORTHCOM officials and build closer relationships with them, said Alabama adjutant general, Army Maj. Gen. C. Mark Bowen.
"With the relationship we've built here, I will feel more comfortable going to Northern Command and saying, 'Look, we need a little help in Alabama,'" Bowen said. "We've worked out a mutual aid-type agreement where we work together, and that's going to work very well for us."
The governor of Louisiana has instructed the state's National Guard leaders to do as much coordination as possible with their federal partners who can help the state's citizens during times of need, said Louisiana adjutant general, Army Maj. Gen. Bennett C. Landreneau.
"The opportunity to have coordination discussion and collaboration is absolutely essential to our preparations for whatever we need to respond to within the state, whether it's tornadoes or a man-made disaster or hurricanes or whatever," he said.
The quiet hurricane season of 2006 was an anomaly, said Air Force Lt. Col. David Lawyer, NORTHCOM's senior meteorology and oceanographic officer. "Don't let your guard down because of what happened in 2006," he warned conference participants. "That was abnormal that we didn't have any hurricanes hit the United States at all."
For the 2007 hurricane season beginning June 1 and ending Nov. 30, experts predict 14 named storms, seven of which are expected to be hurricanes.
(Army Sgt. 1st Class Gail Braymen is assigned to the combined Public Affirs Office of NORAD and NORTHCOM.)
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – Representatives from military and civilian agencies that would provide federal hurricane-relief efforts attended the second annual Hurricane Preparation Conference hosted by U.S. Northern Command at its headquarters yesterday. Participants discussed improving communication and collaboration should the need for federal assistance arise during the 2007 hurricane season.
"It's all about, 'What did we learn the last time and how can we do it better this time?'" said Air Force Maj. Gen. Paul J. Sullivan, chief of staff of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and NORTHCOM. "That's really why we meet on an annual basis in February. If we uncovered something difficult right now, we still have time to react before the heart of the hurricane season."
Conference attendees included officials from the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C., and the adjutants general or their representatives from nine hurricane-prone states on the Gulf and southeastern coasts of the United States. Also attending were leaders from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Army North, 1st Air Force, NORTHCOM and other officials who could be involved in disaster response.
Successful hurricane-relief efforts are built on a partnership among organizations, "and we need all of these partners," said Glenn Cannon, director of FEMA's response division.
"We've all learned that we can't respond to these things and everyone do their own thing," he said. "There has to be a unified response. What these workshops do is give us the chance to not only integrate plans but ... to integrate people."
Every day at FEMA, Cannon said, operations center personnel talk with their counterparts in the operations centers at DHS, the Coast Guard and NORTHCOM.
"That's critical that we share information and we know what's going on, so that we're all on the same page," he said. "The American people are benefited by having a coordinated, unified response to their situation. We have so much that we can use to help people, to save lives and reduce suffering. But if we don't do it in a coordinated way, we won't (accomplish) that mission in the best way possible."
NORTHCOM assets are normally not the first to be called upon for hurricane-relief operations; by law, the command must wait to respond until directed by the president or secretary of defense. Typically, the first uniformed people on the ground at the scene are National Guard soldiers and airmen.
The hurricane-preparation conference allows National Guard leaders to get to know NORTHCOM officials and build closer relationships with them, said Alabama adjutant general, Army Maj. Gen. C. Mark Bowen.
"With the relationship we've built here, I will feel more comfortable going to Northern Command and saying, 'Look, we need a little help in Alabama,'" Bowen said. "We've worked out a mutual aid-type agreement where we work together, and that's going to work very well for us."
The governor of Louisiana has instructed the state's National Guard leaders to do as much coordination as possible with their federal partners who can help the state's citizens during times of need, said Louisiana adjutant general, Army Maj. Gen. Bennett C. Landreneau.
"The opportunity to have coordination discussion and collaboration is absolutely essential to our preparations for whatever we need to respond to within the state, whether it's tornadoes or a man-made disaster or hurricanes or whatever," he said.
The quiet hurricane season of 2006 was an anomaly, said Air Force Lt. Col. David Lawyer, NORTHCOM's senior meteorology and oceanographic officer. "Don't let your guard down because of what happened in 2006," he warned conference participants. "That was abnormal that we didn't have any hurricanes hit the United States at all."
For the 2007 hurricane season beginning June 1 and ending Nov. 30, experts predict 14 named storms, seven of which are expected to be hurricanes.
(Army Sgt. 1st Class Gail Braymen is assigned to the combined Public Affirs Office of NORAD and NORTHCOM.)
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
New Agency Director to Guide DoD Business Transformation
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – A new Defense Department agency designed to drive and accelerate improvements to the department's business operations now has its first director. David M. Fisher was chosen as the Business Transformation Agency's director, officials announced during a discussion with reporters at the Pentagon yesterday. Fisher has been the BTA's acting director since November, and also has served as the defense enterprise integration executive and the director of transformation priorities and requirements within the agency.
Fisher thanked Paul A. Brinkley, deputy undersecretary of defense for business transformation, and the department for giving him "an opportunity to take the great work that's already been done to date and grow it."
"This is not a transformation point, I think it's a maturity point," Fisher said.
Fisher said he will continue to execute the planning that has gone into DoD's business transformation effort over the past two years.
"Philosophically, I think I'm perfectly aligned with where this effort has gone over the last couple of years to build that foundation," he said. But planning and executing reconstruction efforts within a department as large as DoD takes time, he emphasized.
Brinkley said Fisher was selected after "a long and thorough" candidate search.
"One of our key challenges has been to create a nonpolitical organization, the Business Transformation Agency, to establish momentum, to deliver measurable six-month outcomes, and to be accountable to the taxpayers and the American people," Brinkley said.
Appointing Fisher to lead the BTA will help sustain this effort beyond the term of this administration, Brinkley said.
"(We) want to set this effort up to be successful and sustained in the long term for the Department of Defense," he said.
"The DoD is a massive enterprise, because it was the first organization to computerize - it's got computer standards of every standard from 1950 to 2006," Brinkley said. "Our job is to modernize that.
"Big corporations take years to modernize," said he continued. "You're not going to modernize the largest industrial enterprise in the world in a four-year presidential term."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – A new Defense Department agency designed to drive and accelerate improvements to the department's business operations now has its first director. David M. Fisher was chosen as the Business Transformation Agency's director, officials announced during a discussion with reporters at the Pentagon yesterday. Fisher has been the BTA's acting director since November, and also has served as the defense enterprise integration executive and the director of transformation priorities and requirements within the agency.
Fisher thanked Paul A. Brinkley, deputy undersecretary of defense for business transformation, and the department for giving him "an opportunity to take the great work that's already been done to date and grow it."
"This is not a transformation point, I think it's a maturity point," Fisher said.
Fisher said he will continue to execute the planning that has gone into DoD's business transformation effort over the past two years.
"Philosophically, I think I'm perfectly aligned with where this effort has gone over the last couple of years to build that foundation," he said. But planning and executing reconstruction efforts within a department as large as DoD takes time, he emphasized.
Brinkley said Fisher was selected after "a long and thorough" candidate search.
"One of our key challenges has been to create a nonpolitical organization, the Business Transformation Agency, to establish momentum, to deliver measurable six-month outcomes, and to be accountable to the taxpayers and the American people," Brinkley said.
Appointing Fisher to lead the BTA will help sustain this effort beyond the term of this administration, Brinkley said.
"(We) want to set this effort up to be successful and sustained in the long term for the Department of Defense," he said.
"The DoD is a massive enterprise, because it was the first organization to computerize - it's got computer standards of every standard from 1950 to 2006," Brinkley said. "Our job is to modernize that.
"Big corporations take years to modernize," said he continued. "You're not going to modernize the largest industrial enterprise in the world in a four-year presidential term."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
Online Tool Offers Guidance for Troops' Water Purification Requirements
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – The problem of "Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink" can apply as much to deployed troops cut off from their pure water supply as it did to the ancient mariner stranded at sea in Samuel Taylor Coleridge's beloved poem. Clean water is critical to military operations, used in everything from drinking to hygiene and field sanitation to food preparation to medical care, Army Maj. Bill Bettin, chief of the field water section for the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine here, told American Forces Press Service.
The typical deployed troop pours through 15 to 20 gallons of water a day, he said.
Recognizing the importance of water to the military mission, the services have sophisticated water purification and supply networks to ensure troops are never left high and dry. An old Quartermaster Corps adage captures water's importance to servicemembers: "The ultimate weapon runs on water, and everything else runs on fuel."
But what happens when troops find themselves operating away from their established water supply lines with little chance of getting their water supply replenished before it runs out?
Bacteria, viruses and parasites make many local water sources unsafe, Bettin said, and simply boiling water isn't always enough to ensure contaminants are destroyed.
So for emergency situations or operations in remote areas with no water resupply available, troops resort to disinfecting surface water they find with iodine tablets or purifying it with charcoal-based filtering systems. The problem, Bettin said, is that current military-issued purifiers work slowly and may not be as effect as possible.
Commercial water-purification systems have become popular among hikers and campers, and outdoor magazines and catalogs tout their benefits. But until recently, the military hadn't systematically tested these systems and wasn't able to tell deploying units which ones might best suit their needs, Bettin said.
To come up with an answer, the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine launched an 18-month scientific study of 68 commercial, off-the-shelf water-purification systems.
As they evaluated these systems, Bettin and his staff quickly realized that there's no one-size-fits-all answer to military water-purification requirements. "We had planned to pick one product to recommend, but because of the different scenarios units operate under, there was no one solution for every unit," he said.
Instead, they came up with an online decision tool units can use to select the best water purification system for their exact circumstances. That tool, posted on the center's Web site, helps units evaluate what might work best for them and what doesn't work at all, he said. "We found that some (commercial) claims were groundless, and we were able to weed out the non-performers," he said.
Which personal water purifier works best depends on a range of considerations, Bettin said. Units operating at a stationary base camp might find that one system best fits their needs, while troops on the move, either mounted or dismounted, might need something altogether different. In an emergency situation that leaves forces cut off from their existing supply lines, an entirely different system might be the answer, he said.
But other factors play into the decision, as well, including the size and weight of the system, how easy it is to use, its cost, and most importantly, its effectiveness.
The new decision tool has proven to be popular among military members trying to sift through the myriad commercial pitches by water-purification companies. "We've gotten feedback from users who like that it's easy to use and apply," Bettin said.
Civilian outdoorsmen are also accessing the site and reporting its value, he said. Among them was a high school teacher who thanked Bettin for helping him select water-purification systems for a school camping trip.
Just how effective the new site has been in helping prevent troops from drinking contaminated water or having to scale back their water usage due to shortages is tough to tell, Bettin acknowledged.
"That's the whole challenge of preventive medicine," he said. "We know that it's providing a positive result, but it's hard to report what you've prevented."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
American Forces Press Service
Feb. 23, 2007 – The problem of "Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink" can apply as much to deployed troops cut off from their pure water supply as it did to the ancient mariner stranded at sea in Samuel Taylor Coleridge's beloved poem. Clean water is critical to military operations, used in everything from drinking to hygiene and field sanitation to food preparation to medical care, Army Maj. Bill Bettin, chief of the field water section for the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine here, told American Forces Press Service.
The typical deployed troop pours through 15 to 20 gallons of water a day, he said.
Recognizing the importance of water to the military mission, the services have sophisticated water purification and supply networks to ensure troops are never left high and dry. An old Quartermaster Corps adage captures water's importance to servicemembers: "The ultimate weapon runs on water, and everything else runs on fuel."
But what happens when troops find themselves operating away from their established water supply lines with little chance of getting their water supply replenished before it runs out?
Bacteria, viruses and parasites make many local water sources unsafe, Bettin said, and simply boiling water isn't always enough to ensure contaminants are destroyed.
So for emergency situations or operations in remote areas with no water resupply available, troops resort to disinfecting surface water they find with iodine tablets or purifying it with charcoal-based filtering systems. The problem, Bettin said, is that current military-issued purifiers work slowly and may not be as effect as possible.
Commercial water-purification systems have become popular among hikers and campers, and outdoor magazines and catalogs tout their benefits. But until recently, the military hadn't systematically tested these systems and wasn't able to tell deploying units which ones might best suit their needs, Bettin said.
To come up with an answer, the Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine launched an 18-month scientific study of 68 commercial, off-the-shelf water-purification systems.
As they evaluated these systems, Bettin and his staff quickly realized that there's no one-size-fits-all answer to military water-purification requirements. "We had planned to pick one product to recommend, but because of the different scenarios units operate under, there was no one solution for every unit," he said.
Instead, they came up with an online decision tool units can use to select the best water purification system for their exact circumstances. That tool, posted on the center's Web site, helps units evaluate what might work best for them and what doesn't work at all, he said. "We found that some (commercial) claims were groundless, and we were able to weed out the non-performers," he said.
Which personal water purifier works best depends on a range of considerations, Bettin said. Units operating at a stationary base camp might find that one system best fits their needs, while troops on the move, either mounted or dismounted, might need something altogether different. In an emergency situation that leaves forces cut off from their existing supply lines, an entirely different system might be the answer, he said.
But other factors play into the decision, as well, including the size and weight of the system, how easy it is to use, its cost, and most importantly, its effectiveness.
The new decision tool has proven to be popular among military members trying to sift through the myriad commercial pitches by water-purification companies. "We've gotten feedback from users who like that it's easy to use and apply," Bettin said.
Civilian outdoorsmen are also accessing the site and reporting its value, he said. Among them was a high school teacher who thanked Bettin for helping him select water-purification systems for a school camping trip.
Just how effective the new site has been in helping prevent troops from drinking contaminated water or having to scale back their water usage due to shortages is tough to tell, Bettin acknowledged.
"That's the whole challenge of preventive medicine," he said. "We know that it's providing a positive result, but it's hard to report what you've prevented."
Articles sponsored by criminal justice leadership online; and, police and military personnel who have written books.
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