By Army Sgt. Sara Moore
American Forces Press Service
April 14, 2008 - For the fifth year in a row, the football players from the U.S. Naval Academy were honored guests at the White House to receive the Commander-in-Chief's trophy today. The Midshipmen claimed the trophy by beating the Air Force, 31-20, and the Army, 38-3, during the 2007-08 season. The trophy is presented each year to the military academy with the best head-to-head record.
"This team has had an historic season," Bush said at the award presentation in the Rose Garden. "For the third year in a row, [Navy] had the most rushing yards in the nation, as well as the nation's highest graduation rate. You went to your fifth straight bowl game, and of course you accomplished your most important goal: you beat Army."
The Navy team set a school record by scoring 511 points this season and, with its sixth straight win over the Army, established the longest winning streak against Army in history, Bush noted. The Midshipmen also beat Notre Dame for the first time since 1963.
Bush lauded several of the stand-out performers on the team, including the team's captain, slot back Reggie Campbell, who holds eight school records. The president singled out slot back Zerbin Singleton, who overcame injuries from a car accident to make it to the Naval Academy and during the season received Disney's Wide World of Sports Spirit Award as college football's most inspirational figure. Singleton is the brigade commander of all 4,200 midshipmen at the Naval Academy and will soon begin flight training as a Marine aviator.
Bush said he was proud to welcome the individual stars to the White House, "but no question this team played well because you played as a unit. I want to thank every football player for agreeing to put on the uniform of the finest military ever. You signed up after 9/11. You knew the stakes involved in the war against extremists and radicals. You knew that your country depended on you. And you didn't hesitate to wear the uniform."
Bush said he looks forward to welcoming the Midshipmen into the military.
"I cannot wait to be able to say to you some day, 'I'm proud to be your commander in chief,'" he said. "And so I welcome you to the Rose Garden. I congratulate you on being fine football players. More importantly, I congratulate you on being patriotic Americans."
Monday, April 14, 2008
Wounded Warriors' Health Care Improving, Senior Officials Say
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
April 14, 2008 - The Defense and Veterans Affairs departments are making progress to improve health care for injured servicemembers and military veterans, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today. The two agencies "are working together to better serve wounded warriors," Gates, accompanied by Veterans Affairs Secretary James B. Peake, told reporters at a news conference at the Pentagon's river entrance.
"Our departments are making progress on the over 400 recommendations put forth by several major commissions and task forces," Gates said. Several fact-finding panels were formed to examine servicemembers' and veterans' health care after a series of Washington Post articles published in February 2007 cited substandard practices involving medical outpatients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here.
Gates and Peake were accompanied at the Pentagon news conference by Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England and Deputy Veterans Affairs Secretary Gordon H. Mansfield. The deputies have been meeting weekly "to track implementation and progress" of commission recommendations, Gates said.
Defense and VA collaborations are improving veterans' outpatient care, tracking patients' long-term recovery through one system that is jointly administered by both DoD and VA, streamlining disability medical evaluation procedures, simplifying case-management procedures, and more, Gates said.
Gates said he looks forward to future collaboration with Peake and his agency "to ensure the wounded servicemembers receive the first-rate health care that they so much deserve."
Peake echoed Gates' sentiments, noting federal wounded warrior recovery coordinators in place nationwide "are really starting to make a difference" in ensuring military veterans are getting the best health care available.
"We continue to seek ways ... to understand how best to improve our disability processing for our wounded warriors and transition them effectively into the VA system when that is necessary," Peake said.
Peake saluted the Army's wounded warrior transition brigades, the Navy's Safe Harbor program, the Marine Corps' Marine for Life and wounded warrior regiment programs, and the Air Force's Palace HART (Helping Airmen Recover Together) programs for assisting injured servicemembers and wounded transitioning veterans.
All of these programs "are important as we focus on doing the right thing by our wounded warriors," Peake said, adding that he's pleased by the progress that has been made.
"There has never, in my experience, been a closer cooperation between the departments and a more vigorous exchange of information and ideas and problem-solving than what we have today," Peake added.
Former Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala and former Sen. Robert Dole were appointed by President Bush to head an investigative panel to examine allegations of poor outpatient care at Walter Reed. That commission released its findings in July. In addition, the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments launched extensive reviews of all of their medical facilities to ensure that wounded warriors are being treated properly.
American Forces Press Service
April 14, 2008 - The Defense and Veterans Affairs departments are making progress to improve health care for injured servicemembers and military veterans, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today. The two agencies "are working together to better serve wounded warriors," Gates, accompanied by Veterans Affairs Secretary James B. Peake, told reporters at a news conference at the Pentagon's river entrance.
"Our departments are making progress on the over 400 recommendations put forth by several major commissions and task forces," Gates said. Several fact-finding panels were formed to examine servicemembers' and veterans' health care after a series of Washington Post articles published in February 2007 cited substandard practices involving medical outpatients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here.
Gates and Peake were accompanied at the Pentagon news conference by Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England and Deputy Veterans Affairs Secretary Gordon H. Mansfield. The deputies have been meeting weekly "to track implementation and progress" of commission recommendations, Gates said.
Defense and VA collaborations are improving veterans' outpatient care, tracking patients' long-term recovery through one system that is jointly administered by both DoD and VA, streamlining disability medical evaluation procedures, simplifying case-management procedures, and more, Gates said.
Gates said he looks forward to future collaboration with Peake and his agency "to ensure the wounded servicemembers receive the first-rate health care that they so much deserve."
Peake echoed Gates' sentiments, noting federal wounded warrior recovery coordinators in place nationwide "are really starting to make a difference" in ensuring military veterans are getting the best health care available.
"We continue to seek ways ... to understand how best to improve our disability processing for our wounded warriors and transition them effectively into the VA system when that is necessary," Peake said.
Peake saluted the Army's wounded warrior transition brigades, the Navy's Safe Harbor program, the Marine Corps' Marine for Life and wounded warrior regiment programs, and the Air Force's Palace HART (Helping Airmen Recover Together) programs for assisting injured servicemembers and wounded transitioning veterans.
All of these programs "are important as we focus on doing the right thing by our wounded warriors," Peake said, adding that he's pleased by the progress that has been made.
"There has never, in my experience, been a closer cooperation between the departments and a more vigorous exchange of information and ideas and problem-solving than what we have today," Peake added.
Former Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala and former Sen. Robert Dole were appointed by President Bush to head an investigative panel to examine allegations of poor outpatient care at Walter Reed. That commission released its findings in July. In addition, the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments launched extensive reviews of all of their medical facilities to ensure that wounded warriors are being treated properly.
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 14, 2008
ARMY
AM General, LLC, South Bend, Ind. was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $28,580,470 firm-fixed price contract to incorporate a reliability enhanced vehicle Group B engineering change. Work will be performed in Mishawaka, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One bid was solicited on March 17, 2006. TACOM, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).
Weeks Marine, Inc., Covington, La. was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $14,115,500 firm-fixed price contract for a shore protection project. Work will be performed in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and is expected to be completed on Oct. 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Five bids were solicited on Feb. 12, 2008, and three bids were received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville, Fla. Is the contracting activity (W912EP-08-C-0012).
Chugach Government Services, Inc., Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $14,085,673 firm-fixed price contract for construction of the F-22 jet inspection and maintenance facility. Work will be performed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, and is expected to be completed on Sept. 28, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Nov. 17, 2007, and three bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-08-C-0009).
L-3 Combat Propulsion Systems, Muskegon, Mich. was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $6,483,484 cost-plus fixed fee contract for a service contract for 38,500 base year hours of systems technical support for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle system transmission. Work will be performed primarily in Muskegon, Mich. and is expected to be completed on April 7, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Jan. 16, 2008, and one bid was received. TACOM LCMC, Warren, Mich. is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-2050).
NAVY
Stanley Associates, Inc.,Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $25,483,854 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee performance based contract for services that support the implementation of a consolidated Rack/Component Procurement and Integration (RCP&I) common product capability across all applicable programs. The work performed under the contract will encompass technical support to provide systems enegineering, integration, testing, small-scale fabrication, NDI procurement, interim depot repair and maintenance services, and training on legacy systems. This contract includes four one-year options, if exercised, and three one-year award terms which, if earned, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to an estimated $249,882,601. Work will be performed in Charleston, S.C., (90 percent); Norfolk, Va., (10 percent); and work is expected to be completed by April 2009 (April 2016 with options exercised). Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured under full and open competition. The request for proposal was posted on the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center e-commerce website, with one offer received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, Charleston is the contracting activity for this action (N65236-08-D-2835).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $24,108,479 modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-05-D-0018) for the procurement of 13 acoustic receiver technical refresh upgrade kits and 21 acoustic receiver technical refresh retrofit kits for the P-3 Aircraft. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and work is expected to be completed in August 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
The Grunley Walsh US, LLC, Rockville, Md., is being awarded $6,639,525 for firm-fixed-price Task Order #0004 under a previously awarded indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract (N62477-04-D-0174) for modifications to a sewage treatment plant at Naval Support Activity at South Potomac. The work also includes the construction of a new Headworks Building and associated equipment, two new primary clarifiers, new aerobic digester, equalization basin, and minor site and utilities modifications and incidental related work. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va., and work is expected to be completed by December 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
AM General, LLC, South Bend, Ind. was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $28,580,470 firm-fixed price contract to incorporate a reliability enhanced vehicle Group B engineering change. Work will be performed in Mishawaka, Ind., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One bid was solicited on March 17, 2006. TACOM, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).
Weeks Marine, Inc., Covington, La. was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $14,115,500 firm-fixed price contract for a shore protection project. Work will be performed in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and is expected to be completed on Oct. 31, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Five bids were solicited on Feb. 12, 2008, and three bids were received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville, Fla. Is the contracting activity (W912EP-08-C-0012).
Chugach Government Services, Inc., Anchorage, Alaska, was awarded on April 11, 2008, a $14,085,673 firm-fixed price contract for construction of the F-22 jet inspection and maintenance facility. Work will be performed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, and is expected to be completed on Sept. 28, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Nov. 17, 2007, and three bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Alaska, is the contracting activity (W911KB-08-C-0009).
L-3 Combat Propulsion Systems, Muskegon, Mich. was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $6,483,484 cost-plus fixed fee contract for a service contract for 38,500 base year hours of systems technical support for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle system transmission. Work will be performed primarily in Muskegon, Mich. and is expected to be completed on April 7, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Jan. 16, 2008, and one bid was received. TACOM LCMC, Warren, Mich. is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-C-2050).
NAVY
Stanley Associates, Inc.,Arlington, Va., is being awarded a $25,483,854 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, cost-plus-fixed-fee performance based contract for services that support the implementation of a consolidated Rack/Component Procurement and Integration (RCP&I) common product capability across all applicable programs. The work performed under the contract will encompass technical support to provide systems enegineering, integration, testing, small-scale fabrication, NDI procurement, interim depot repair and maintenance services, and training on legacy systems. This contract includes four one-year options, if exercised, and three one-year award terms which, if earned, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to an estimated $249,882,601. Work will be performed in Charleston, S.C., (90 percent); Norfolk, Va., (10 percent); and work is expected to be completed by April 2009 (April 2016 with options exercised). Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured under full and open competition. The request for proposal was posted on the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center e-commerce website, with one offer received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center, Charleston is the contracting activity for this action (N65236-08-D-2835).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $24,108,479 modification to a previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N00019-05-D-0018) for the procurement of 13 acoustic receiver technical refresh upgrade kits and 21 acoustic receiver technical refresh retrofit kits for the P-3 Aircraft. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and work is expected to be completed in August 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.
The Grunley Walsh US, LLC, Rockville, Md., is being awarded $6,639,525 for firm-fixed-price Task Order #0004 under a previously awarded indefinite-quantity multiple award construction contract (N62477-04-D-0174) for modifications to a sewage treatment plant at Naval Support Activity at South Potomac. The work also includes the construction of a new Headworks Building and associated equipment, two new primary clarifiers, new aerobic digester, equalization basin, and minor site and utilities modifications and incidental related work. Work will be performed in Dahlgren, Va., and work is expected to be completed by December 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Naturalization Ceremony Honors New Uniformed Citizens
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 14, 2008 - As a naturalization ceremony began this afternoon, 22 U.S. military immigrants representing 15 nations stood at attention in the balmy Pentagon courtyard while the color guard passed before them. Though they were born in Peru, Kenya or Jamaica or hailed from the United Kingdom, Canada or Ethiopia, when the troops took the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the star-spangled American flag became their national banner.
"We are a greater country, we are a stronger country, we are a better country today, because you have joined us this day as Americans," Air Force Maj. Gen. James W. Graves, assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for reserve matters, told the troops before they pledged citizenship.
The group wore a collective look of pride as they raised their right hands and recited the oath, led by Emilio T. Gonzalez, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
In a pastiche of foreign voices with varying levels of English fluency, the immigrants repeated each clause of the oath. Together, they renounced "fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty"; vowed to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and the nation's laws; promised to serve at the will of the nation; and pledged they were assuming their duties "without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion."
Following recitation of the oath, the USCIS director congratulated the group, calling them "America's newest citizens," as the crowd rose to its feet and gave a thundering standing ovation.
"It speaks volumes about America when people are willing to pick up arms and defend her, yet they can't even vote here," Gonzalez said. "The fact that tens of thousands of legal, permanent noncitizens serve in our armed forces is something that's quite unfathomable to countries around the world."
Gonzalez, an immigrant himself, told the new citizens that America is land where people are measured by what they can be, not by their country of origin.
"You are the future of this country, and more immigrant communities will continue to strengthen this nation and make it what it is today," he said. "Those of you here, you honor America by your service, and hopefully America has repaid that honor with well-earned citizenship."
Before the immigrant troops undertook the oath, they had to first demonstrate good moral character and show knowledge of the English language, the U.S. government and civics, according to the USCIS Web site.
By joining more than 300 million other U.S. citizens, those naturalized today leave roughly 37,000 other non-U.S. citizens currently serving in the military, according to U.S. Congress statistics.
Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England said that in acknowledgement of foreign-born servicemembers' merit, President Bush signed an executive order in 2002 making the immigrants immediately eligible for U.S. citizenship when they serve on active duty. "If some people are willing to risk their lives for our country, they ought to be full participants in our country," England said, quoting the president.
"What is altogether remarkable about the people here today -- the nation's newest citizens -- is that long before this day when that distinction is being conferred upon you, you had volunteered to serve your nation of choice in a most demanding occupation, and during one of the most demanding periods in the nation's recent history," England said.
"That service has taken some of you far from this country, in some cases to the harsh and often violent streets of Iraq and Afghanistan," he said. Three of the servicemembers naturalized today have served in Iraq, and one has served in Afghanistan, according to Defense Department officials. "All of you are dedicated servants of the nation you've chosen and for which you've shouldered the burden of its defense."
The deputy secretary welcomed the wide-ranging experience and wisdom the new citizens were adding to the U.S. melting pot.
"The countries you hail from, your names, your cultures, and unique experiences reflect the diversity that is this nation's hallmark and vitality," he said. "The country's strong fabric is woven from the richly varied contributions of citizens from around the entire world."
A citizen for about an hour, Juan De La Maza, a 33-year-old Army private from Mexico City already was looking forward to exercising his new rights. "It will be nice to have the liberty to do something more," he said, "like vote."
American Forces Press Service
April 14, 2008 - As a naturalization ceremony began this afternoon, 22 U.S. military immigrants representing 15 nations stood at attention in the balmy Pentagon courtyard while the color guard passed before them. Though they were born in Peru, Kenya or Jamaica or hailed from the United Kingdom, Canada or Ethiopia, when the troops took the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the star-spangled American flag became their national banner.
"We are a greater country, we are a stronger country, we are a better country today, because you have joined us this day as Americans," Air Force Maj. Gen. James W. Graves, assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for reserve matters, told the troops before they pledged citizenship.
The group wore a collective look of pride as they raised their right hands and recited the oath, led by Emilio T. Gonzalez, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
In a pastiche of foreign voices with varying levels of English fluency, the immigrants repeated each clause of the oath. Together, they renounced "fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty"; vowed to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and the nation's laws; promised to serve at the will of the nation; and pledged they were assuming their duties "without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion."
Following recitation of the oath, the USCIS director congratulated the group, calling them "America's newest citizens," as the crowd rose to its feet and gave a thundering standing ovation.
"It speaks volumes about America when people are willing to pick up arms and defend her, yet they can't even vote here," Gonzalez said. "The fact that tens of thousands of legal, permanent noncitizens serve in our armed forces is something that's quite unfathomable to countries around the world."
Gonzalez, an immigrant himself, told the new citizens that America is land where people are measured by what they can be, not by their country of origin.
"You are the future of this country, and more immigrant communities will continue to strengthen this nation and make it what it is today," he said. "Those of you here, you honor America by your service, and hopefully America has repaid that honor with well-earned citizenship."
Before the immigrant troops undertook the oath, they had to first demonstrate good moral character and show knowledge of the English language, the U.S. government and civics, according to the USCIS Web site.
By joining more than 300 million other U.S. citizens, those naturalized today leave roughly 37,000 other non-U.S. citizens currently serving in the military, according to U.S. Congress statistics.
Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England said that in acknowledgement of foreign-born servicemembers' merit, President Bush signed an executive order in 2002 making the immigrants immediately eligible for U.S. citizenship when they serve on active duty. "If some people are willing to risk their lives for our country, they ought to be full participants in our country," England said, quoting the president.
"What is altogether remarkable about the people here today -- the nation's newest citizens -- is that long before this day when that distinction is being conferred upon you, you had volunteered to serve your nation of choice in a most demanding occupation, and during one of the most demanding periods in the nation's recent history," England said.
"That service has taken some of you far from this country, in some cases to the harsh and often violent streets of Iraq and Afghanistan," he said. Three of the servicemembers naturalized today have served in Iraq, and one has served in Afghanistan, according to Defense Department officials. "All of you are dedicated servants of the nation you've chosen and for which you've shouldered the burden of its defense."
The deputy secretary welcomed the wide-ranging experience and wisdom the new citizens were adding to the U.S. melting pot.
"The countries you hail from, your names, your cultures, and unique experiences reflect the diversity that is this nation's hallmark and vitality," he said. "The country's strong fabric is woven from the richly varied contributions of citizens from around the entire world."
A citizen for about an hour, Juan De La Maza, a 33-year-old Army private from Mexico City already was looking forward to exercising his new rights. "It will be nice to have the liberty to do something more," he said, "like vote."
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Texas Lawmen
Editor's Note: One of the authors is a former servicemember.
April 12, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three law enforcement officials from the State of Texas
Ted Hinton became a Dallas County Sheriff’s Department deputy sheriff in 1932. He was a member of the posse that confronted and killed the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. Ted Hinton left the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department in 1941. A pilot, Ted Hinton gave flying instruction to Army Air Corps recruits throughout World War II. After the war, he opened restaurant and passed away in 1982. Ted Hinton is the author of Ambush: The Real Story of Bonnie and Clyde.
According to one reader, Ambush: The Real Story of Bonnie and Clyde, it “is Ted Hinton's account describing the early years and the facts leading up to the bloody end of two desperate criminals. Hinton speaks out as one of the six men who killed Bonnie and Clyde in a hailstorm of bullets without warning on the morning of May 23, 1934 near Gibsland, Louisiana. This book is well illustrated and provides several rare pictures. I recommend this book to readers.”
Captain James Howell has been in law enforcement for over 30 years and is the Commander of the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigations Division. James Howell is the author of Copper Eyes and the co-author of Emerald Reflections.
According to the book description of Copper Eyes, “Danielle Ramos is a new Dallas County deputy sheriff who recently left the El Paso Sheriff’s Department to move forward with her life following her divorce. The detective’s first murder case in Dallas County thrusts her into the world of a past serial killer who had decided that after twelve years, now is the time to start killing again. Danielle is merely in the way.”
Chief Reece Daniel began his law enforcement career in 1976 with the Paris Police Department (Texas). He joined the Farmers Branch Police Department in 1980, rising to the rank of Captain. In 1999, he became the chief of police for the Rowlett Police Department; and, in 2006 he became the chief of police for the Jacksonville Police Department (Texas).
Chief Reece Daniel has a AA in law enforcement; a BS in Criminology and Psychology; and, a MS in Criminal Justice. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a Criminal Justice Practitioner’s Certificate from the University of Virginia. Chief Reece Daniel is the author of Desert Sunshine.
According to the book description of Desert Sunshine, it “combines elements of modern law enforcement with the Old West of 1882. Ed Adair, retired police chief, moves back to his boyhood home in Arizona to become a Special Arizona Ranger, where he can indulge his insatiable appetite for western memorabilia and unsolved cases from the 1880s.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 957 police officers (representing 403 police departments) and their 2037 law enforcement books in 35 categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
April 12, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three law enforcement officials from the State of Texas
Ted Hinton became a Dallas County Sheriff’s Department deputy sheriff in 1932. He was a member of the posse that confronted and killed the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. Ted Hinton left the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department in 1941. A pilot, Ted Hinton gave flying instruction to Army Air Corps recruits throughout World War II. After the war, he opened restaurant and passed away in 1982. Ted Hinton is the author of Ambush: The Real Story of Bonnie and Clyde.
According to one reader, Ambush: The Real Story of Bonnie and Clyde, it “is Ted Hinton's account describing the early years and the facts leading up to the bloody end of two desperate criminals. Hinton speaks out as one of the six men who killed Bonnie and Clyde in a hailstorm of bullets without warning on the morning of May 23, 1934 near Gibsland, Louisiana. This book is well illustrated and provides several rare pictures. I recommend this book to readers.”
Captain James Howell has been in law enforcement for over 30 years and is the Commander of the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigations Division. James Howell is the author of Copper Eyes and the co-author of Emerald Reflections.
According to the book description of Copper Eyes, “Danielle Ramos is a new Dallas County deputy sheriff who recently left the El Paso Sheriff’s Department to move forward with her life following her divorce. The detective’s first murder case in Dallas County thrusts her into the world of a past serial killer who had decided that after twelve years, now is the time to start killing again. Danielle is merely in the way.”
Chief Reece Daniel began his law enforcement career in 1976 with the Paris Police Department (Texas). He joined the Farmers Branch Police Department in 1980, rising to the rank of Captain. In 1999, he became the chief of police for the Rowlett Police Department; and, in 2006 he became the chief of police for the Jacksonville Police Department (Texas).
Chief Reece Daniel has a AA in law enforcement; a BS in Criminology and Psychology; and, a MS in Criminal Justice. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a Criminal Justice Practitioner’s Certificate from the University of Virginia. Chief Reece Daniel is the author of Desert Sunshine.
According to the book description of Desert Sunshine, it “combines elements of modern law enforcement with the Old West of 1882. Ed Adair, retired police chief, moves back to his boyhood home in Arizona to become a Special Arizona Ranger, where he can indulge his insatiable appetite for western memorabilia and unsolved cases from the 1880s.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 957 police officers (representing 403 police departments) and their 2037 law enforcement books in 35 categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Leadership Book is Hoffer Award Finalist
Editor's Note: The author, Raymond E. Foster, is a former servicemember.
April 12, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style was a finalist for the Eric Hoffer Book Award. According to the Executive Editor of Writers Notes & Best New Writing, Christopher Klim, “While it did not win a category distinction this year, it fell within the top 10% of entrants to be considered for prizes. With respect to the competition, we consider this an honor of its own merit. Less than 50 books each year are dubbed with the title of “Eric Hoffer Award Finalist.”
About the Award
The Eric Hoffer Award honors the memory of the great American philosopher Eric Hoffer by highlighting salient writing. The Hoffer Award honors freethinking writers and independent books of exceptional merit. The “Hoffer” honored books are chiefly from small, academic, and micro presses, including self-published offerings. The books and prose of the Hoffer Award are nominated by the people and judged by independent panels. Since its inception as the Writers Notes Award, the Hoffer Award has grown in prominence. Winners of the “Hoffer” are given prizes, honors, and worldwide media exposure, as well as being covered in the annual anthology, Best New Writing.
About the Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew J. Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."
About the Authors
Dr. Andrew J. Harvey served in law enforcement for 25 years, the last 12 as a captain with a Southern California police agency. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Cal State Los Angeles, and an educational doctorate in the field of organizational leadership from Pepperdine University. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the California POST Command College, the West Point Leadership Program, and is recognized in California as a master instructor.
Dr. Harvey is an experienced college educator, currently serving as a professor at the University of Phoenix, and as a faculty advisor at the Union Institute and University. He has been published numerous times in national and international publications. He is a recognized expert in leadership and career development, and has served as an instructor in command leadership at the Los Angeles Police Department Academy. He has appeared as a leadership authority on television and radio, including the internationally-broadcast Bloomberg Business Television Show, and the nationally syndicated Joey Reynolds Radio Show.
His first book, The Call to Lead: How Ordinary People Become Extraordinary Leaders, received national attention. The book shows the way for leaders toward ethical and competent leadership. Through his company, Andrew Harvey Seminars, he provides leadership training and consulting to individuals and organizations throughout the nation.
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral course work in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.
Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement. His first book, “Police Technology (Prentice Hall, July 2004)” is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide.
Contact Information
www.pokerleadership.com
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
April 12, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style was a finalist for the Eric Hoffer Book Award. According to the Executive Editor of Writers Notes & Best New Writing, Christopher Klim, “While it did not win a category distinction this year, it fell within the top 10% of entrants to be considered for prizes. With respect to the competition, we consider this an honor of its own merit. Less than 50 books each year are dubbed with the title of “Eric Hoffer Award Finalist.”
About the Award
The Eric Hoffer Award honors the memory of the great American philosopher Eric Hoffer by highlighting salient writing. The Hoffer Award honors freethinking writers and independent books of exceptional merit. The “Hoffer” honored books are chiefly from small, academic, and micro presses, including self-published offerings. The books and prose of the Hoffer Award are nominated by the people and judged by independent panels. Since its inception as the Writers Notes Award, the Hoffer Award has grown in prominence. Winners of the “Hoffer” are given prizes, honors, and worldwide media exposure, as well as being covered in the annual anthology, Best New Writing.
About the Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style
Using poker as analogy for leadership, Captain Andrew J. Harvey, CPD (ret.), Ed.D. and Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA found the right mix of practical experience and academic credentials to write a definitive book for leaders. Working together, Harvey and Foster have written Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style. Most often leaders find they are given a set of resources people, equipment, funds, experience and a mission. As Foster noted, "You're dealt a certain hand. How you play that hand as a leader determines your success."
About the Authors
Dr. Andrew J. Harvey served in law enforcement for 25 years, the last 12 as a captain with a Southern California police agency. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Cal State Los Angeles, and an educational doctorate in the field of organizational leadership from Pepperdine University. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the California POST Command College, the West Point Leadership Program, and is recognized in California as a master instructor.
Dr. Harvey is an experienced college educator, currently serving as a professor at the University of Phoenix, and as a faculty advisor at the Union Institute and University. He has been published numerous times in national and international publications. He is a recognized expert in leadership and career development, and has served as an instructor in command leadership at the Los Angeles Police Department Academy. He has appeared as a leadership authority on television and radio, including the internationally-broadcast Bloomberg Business Television Show, and the nationally syndicated Joey Reynolds Radio Show.
His first book, The Call to Lead: How Ordinary People Become Extraordinary Leaders, received national attention. The book shows the way for leaders toward ethical and competent leadership. Through his company, Andrew Harvey Seminars, he provides leadership training and consulting to individuals and organizations throughout the nation.
Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton. He has completed his doctoral course work in business research. Raymond is a graduate of the West Point Leadership program and has attended law enforcement, technology and leadership programs such as the National Institute for Justice, Technology Institute, Washington, DC.
Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement. His first book, “Police Technology (Prentice Hall, July 2004)” is used in over 100 colleges and universities nationwide.
Contact Information
www.pokerleadership.com
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Military's Hawaiian Playground Undergoes Major Facelift
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Army Pfc. Shane Stuard couldn't think of a better place to spend the last day of his rest-and-recuperation leave before rejoining his unit in Iraq than at the Hale Koa Hotel here. Stuard, an infantryman assigned to 2nd Brigade, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade, sent the kids off to the nanny and headed with his wife, Hazel, to the resort hotel that's considered a crown jewel among the Defense Department's four armed forces recreation centers.
Relishing their first private time since Stuard's arrival at Schofield Barracks two weeks ago, the two frolicked along Waikiki Beach, flew above the sparkling coastline on a parasail, and popped into the hotel's own Post Exchange to stock up on goodies for Stuard's return flight.
As they enjoyed the surf and each other, Camp Taji, Iraq, seemed a million miles away.
The Hale Koa has offered servicemembers, military retirees and Defense Department civilian employees a piece of paradise on Hawaii's most famous beach since it opened its doors in 1975.
"We love it here," Hazel Stuard said. "The customer service is excellent, and the rooms are beautiful. It's right on the beach!"
"Plus, it's a whole lot cheaper than anywhere else around!" her husband added.
Prices for the hotel's 817 guestrooms are based on military rank, with Stuard and other E-1s through E-5s paying as little as $83 a night for a standard room. The price goes up for more senior noncommissioned officers and officers or guests wanting garden or ocean views. At the high end of the scale, junior servicemembers pay $154 a night for a deluxe oceanfront room; senior officers, warrant officers and Defense Department civilians pay up to $202 for the same room.
Troops returned from Iraq and Afghanistan get additional discounts of 20 to 35 percent off all services, from lodging to dining to entertainment. "A couple thousand" servicemembers a month take advantage of that offering, Mike Naka'ahiki, the hotel's marketing manager, said.
While price may draw guests to the Hale Koa, there's nothing low-budget about its accommodations or vast offerings. The hotel offers everything troops might expect to find in a luxury paradise resort: a vast beachfront, multiple pools, lush tropical gardens, and top-notch Polynesian entertainment.
Servicemembers staying at the resort, as well as troops stationed in Hawaii or transiting through the area, qualify for the Hale Koa's amenities. They can sign up for an authentic Hawaiian-style luau, dine in eateries offering anything from fast food to haute cuisine, or grab a picnic table and fire up one of the many barbecue grills dotting the grounds.
"We try to offer our military families the same experience they would have if they went to another top resort on Waikiki Beach," Naka'ahiki said. "But we like to think that what they're offering is a little better, with so much open green space."
To maintain that standard, the Ilima Tower, the original of the hotel's two towers, is undergoing a $60 million to $70 million renovation that will give its 420 guest rooms a whole new face. "We're giving them a full-on makeover and a fresh look, with new carpeting and wallpaper and updated bath fixtures," Naka'ahiki said.
Although several floors of the tower are closed during construction, the rest of the tower remains open and accepting guests, Naka'ahiki said. The hotel's Maile Tower, opened in 1995, also continues to run at near-full capacity.
When there's no room at the Hale Koa, would-be guests are offered rooms at other local hotels at Hale Koa prices, Naka'ahiki noted. If they take advantage of this offer, they're still welcome to use the Hale Koa's restaurants, pools and other facilities, he said.
And to make up for any inconvenience the renovation may cause, the hotel has brought in special, top-level entertainment. "We're being as unobtrusive as possible with the construction, but it's a little extra to make sure our guests have the best experience possible," Naka'ahiki said. Guests playing badminton on the beach, stretched out on lounge chairs or sipping tropical drinks were doing just that.
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Josh Rabb, an operations specialist assigned to U.S. Pacific Fleet at nearby Pearl Harbor, enjoyed the afternoon poolside with his wife, Lauren, and 2-month-old son, Kailer.
"We love it here," Rabb said. "It's a nice environment, right next to the beach. They keep this place very clean, and they treat us really well here."
Army Staff Sgt. Miguel Ross, from 325th Aviation at Schofield Barracks, said he frequents the Hale Koa's beach and pools and enjoys ordering up some of the best mai tais on Oahu.
"The prices here are a big advantage," he said. "But it goes beyond that. It's the way they treat you here -- with respect. They cater to you, no matter who you are."
Some visitors, like Air Force Staff Sgt. David Camacho, feel like they've discovered paradise on Earth when they first see the Hale Koa grounds. "I like it here a lot," said Camacho, who said he heard about the hotel from American Forces Network commercials back at his home base, Misawa Air Base, Japan.
A vehicle dispatcher with 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron who's in Hawaii for a U.S. Pacific Command exercise, Camacho said he already assigned his girlfriend back in Japan the task of booking a vacation at the Hale Koa. "I'm looking at doing a week here, going on some cruises, taking advantage of the activities and trips and doing the Hawaiian things here," he said.
"This is the kind of place where you can really enjoy yourself," he added.
The Hale Koa is one of four armed forces recreation centers the U.S. military operates for servicemembers and their families, retirees, and Defense Department civilians. The other facilities are the Edelweis in Germany, Dragon Hill in Korea, and Shades of Green at Disney World in Orlando, Fla. All the facilities operate at no cost to taxpayers.
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Army Pfc. Shane Stuard couldn't think of a better place to spend the last day of his rest-and-recuperation leave before rejoining his unit in Iraq than at the Hale Koa Hotel here. Stuard, an infantryman assigned to 2nd Brigade, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade, sent the kids off to the nanny and headed with his wife, Hazel, to the resort hotel that's considered a crown jewel among the Defense Department's four armed forces recreation centers.
Relishing their first private time since Stuard's arrival at Schofield Barracks two weeks ago, the two frolicked along Waikiki Beach, flew above the sparkling coastline on a parasail, and popped into the hotel's own Post Exchange to stock up on goodies for Stuard's return flight.
As they enjoyed the surf and each other, Camp Taji, Iraq, seemed a million miles away.
The Hale Koa has offered servicemembers, military retirees and Defense Department civilian employees a piece of paradise on Hawaii's most famous beach since it opened its doors in 1975.
"We love it here," Hazel Stuard said. "The customer service is excellent, and the rooms are beautiful. It's right on the beach!"
"Plus, it's a whole lot cheaper than anywhere else around!" her husband added.
Prices for the hotel's 817 guestrooms are based on military rank, with Stuard and other E-1s through E-5s paying as little as $83 a night for a standard room. The price goes up for more senior noncommissioned officers and officers or guests wanting garden or ocean views. At the high end of the scale, junior servicemembers pay $154 a night for a deluxe oceanfront room; senior officers, warrant officers and Defense Department civilians pay up to $202 for the same room.
Troops returned from Iraq and Afghanistan get additional discounts of 20 to 35 percent off all services, from lodging to dining to entertainment. "A couple thousand" servicemembers a month take advantage of that offering, Mike Naka'ahiki, the hotel's marketing manager, said.
While price may draw guests to the Hale Koa, there's nothing low-budget about its accommodations or vast offerings. The hotel offers everything troops might expect to find in a luxury paradise resort: a vast beachfront, multiple pools, lush tropical gardens, and top-notch Polynesian entertainment.
Servicemembers staying at the resort, as well as troops stationed in Hawaii or transiting through the area, qualify for the Hale Koa's amenities. They can sign up for an authentic Hawaiian-style luau, dine in eateries offering anything from fast food to haute cuisine, or grab a picnic table and fire up one of the many barbecue grills dotting the grounds.
"We try to offer our military families the same experience they would have if they went to another top resort on Waikiki Beach," Naka'ahiki said. "But we like to think that what they're offering is a little better, with so much open green space."
To maintain that standard, the Ilima Tower, the original of the hotel's two towers, is undergoing a $60 million to $70 million renovation that will give its 420 guest rooms a whole new face. "We're giving them a full-on makeover and a fresh look, with new carpeting and wallpaper and updated bath fixtures," Naka'ahiki said.
Although several floors of the tower are closed during construction, the rest of the tower remains open and accepting guests, Naka'ahiki said. The hotel's Maile Tower, opened in 1995, also continues to run at near-full capacity.
When there's no room at the Hale Koa, would-be guests are offered rooms at other local hotels at Hale Koa prices, Naka'ahiki noted. If they take advantage of this offer, they're still welcome to use the Hale Koa's restaurants, pools and other facilities, he said.
And to make up for any inconvenience the renovation may cause, the hotel has brought in special, top-level entertainment. "We're being as unobtrusive as possible with the construction, but it's a little extra to make sure our guests have the best experience possible," Naka'ahiki said. Guests playing badminton on the beach, stretched out on lounge chairs or sipping tropical drinks were doing just that.
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Josh Rabb, an operations specialist assigned to U.S. Pacific Fleet at nearby Pearl Harbor, enjoyed the afternoon poolside with his wife, Lauren, and 2-month-old son, Kailer.
"We love it here," Rabb said. "It's a nice environment, right next to the beach. They keep this place very clean, and they treat us really well here."
Army Staff Sgt. Miguel Ross, from 325th Aviation at Schofield Barracks, said he frequents the Hale Koa's beach and pools and enjoys ordering up some of the best mai tais on Oahu.
"The prices here are a big advantage," he said. "But it goes beyond that. It's the way they treat you here -- with respect. They cater to you, no matter who you are."
Some visitors, like Air Force Staff Sgt. David Camacho, feel like they've discovered paradise on Earth when they first see the Hale Koa grounds. "I like it here a lot," said Camacho, who said he heard about the hotel from American Forces Network commercials back at his home base, Misawa Air Base, Japan.
A vehicle dispatcher with 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron who's in Hawaii for a U.S. Pacific Command exercise, Camacho said he already assigned his girlfriend back in Japan the task of booking a vacation at the Hale Koa. "I'm looking at doing a week here, going on some cruises, taking advantage of the activities and trips and doing the Hawaiian things here," he said.
"This is the kind of place where you can really enjoy yourself," he added.
The Hale Koa is one of four armed forces recreation centers the U.S. military operates for servicemembers and their families, retirees, and Defense Department civilians. The other facilities are the Edelweis in Germany, Dragon Hill in Korea, and Shades of Green at Disney World in Orlando, Fla. All the facilities operate at no cost to taxpayers.
National Security Archive Update, April 11, 2008
U.S. RECONNAISSANCE SATELLITES: DOMESTIC TARGETS - Updated
Documents Describe Use of Satellites in Support of Civil Agencies and Longstanding Controversy
http://www.nsarchive.org
For more information contact:
Jeffrey Richelson - 202/994-7000
Washington, D.C., April 11, 2008 - The policy debate over using U.S. reconnaissance satellites to obtain imagery of targets in the United States dates back to the earliest days of spy satellites, according to an updated collection of declassified documents published today by the National Security Archive at George Washington University (www.nsarchive.org).
Obtained and edited by Archive senior fellow Dr. Jeffrey Richelson, the documents add significant historical context to current Congressional concerns about privacy and civil liberties guidelines for the new National Applications Office.
Additional historical documents include the charter for the Civil Applications Committee, the statement of authority for National Reconnaissance Program activities over the United States, as well as documents that focus on the question of "proper use" of the satellites and the risk to senior officials should the space assets be used inappropriately.
Documents concerning current plans to establish a National Applications Office and associated Congressional concerns include the letter from the Secretary of Homeland Security to the Director of National Intelligence (reporting his interest in establishing a domestic applications office), expressions of Congressional concern, and the proposed charter (from February 2008).
Visit the Web site of the National Security Archive for more information about today's posting.
http://www.nsarchive.org
THE NATIONAL SECURITY ARCHIVE is an independent non-governmental research institute and library located at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The Archive collects and publishes declassified documents acquired through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). A tax-exempt public charity, the Archive receives no U.S. government funding; its budget is supported by publication royalties and donations from foundations and individuals.
Documents Describe Use of Satellites in Support of Civil Agencies and Longstanding Controversy
http://www.nsarchive.org
For more information contact:
Jeffrey Richelson - 202/994-7000
Washington, D.C., April 11, 2008 - The policy debate over using U.S. reconnaissance satellites to obtain imagery of targets in the United States dates back to the earliest days of spy satellites, according to an updated collection of declassified documents published today by the National Security Archive at George Washington University (www.nsarchive.org).
Obtained and edited by Archive senior fellow Dr. Jeffrey Richelson, the documents add significant historical context to current Congressional concerns about privacy and civil liberties guidelines for the new National Applications Office.
Additional historical documents include the charter for the Civil Applications Committee, the statement of authority for National Reconnaissance Program activities over the United States, as well as documents that focus on the question of "proper use" of the satellites and the risk to senior officials should the space assets be used inappropriately.
Documents concerning current plans to establish a National Applications Office and associated Congressional concerns include the letter from the Secretary of Homeland Security to the Director of National Intelligence (reporting his interest in establishing a domestic applications office), expressions of Congressional concern, and the proposed charter (from February 2008).
Visit the Web site of the National Security Archive for more information about today's posting.
http://www.nsarchive.org
THE NATIONAL SECURITY ARCHIVE is an independent non-governmental research institute and library located at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The Archive collects and publishes declassified documents acquired through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). A tax-exempt public charity, the Archive receives no U.S. government funding; its budget is supported by publication royalties and donations from foundations and individuals.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Research Agency Celebrates 50 Years of Technological Evolution
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - When Russia surprised the world a half century ago by launching the Sputnik satellite through Earth's atmosphere, the ripple effect spurred the White House into action. In response to the Russian gambit, President Dwight D. Eisenhower in February 1958 commissioned the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Fifty years later, the agency's mission remains clear: prevent future technological surprises for the United States and create them for the nation's enemies.
"The man in the White House, Dwight Eisenhower, didn't scare easy," Vice President Richard B. Cheney said here last night at a dinner honoring 50 years of DARPA. "He had complete, justified confidence in this nation's ability to reclaim the technological edge and to hold it from then on."
Several hundred past and present DARPA employees gathered to celebrate a half century of success that produced the Saturn V rocket that enabled U.S. Apollo missions to fly to the moon, stealth aircraft, guided munitions, body armor, and an early version of today's Internet, to name some of the agency's mainstays.
"If you've been associated with this agency, you're the kind of person who lives and breathes technology, and you have a place in the story of the past 50 years," said Cheney, the evening's keynote speaker. "It's a story of boldness and excellence; of visionary, high-yield projects; and of service above self.
"And all of these have been directed to the highest purposes that a citizen can assume: the safety of our people, the security of our nation, and the survival of freedom itself," he said.
Cheney, who served as secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush, remarked that there was a shortage of unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, during Operation Desert Storm. Thanks to DARPA, the technology advanced through the 1990s, and unmanned aircraft now play a vital role in current U.S. operations, he said.
"We've been able to use it all the time in both Afghanistan and Iraq -- for reconnaissance, for remote sensing, and to strike the enemy," said Cheney, noting that Marines in Iraq refer to the small-scale UAVs overhead as "guardian angels."
DARPA's responsiveness is possible because technological innovation is its sole guiding principle. To maintain an entrepreneurial atmosphere and the flow of new ideas, the agency hires program managers for only four to six years, frequently replenishing the organization with fresh perspective, according to DARPA's Web site.
In contrast to the private sector, program managers understand their short timelines at DARPA and therefore are willing to pursue high-risk technical ideas, even those with a reasonable chance of failure, the Web site said. Without bureaucratic distractions and with few institutional interests, the agency pursues a largely unabated mission: radical innovation for national security.
"DARPA is the Department of Defense's only research agency not tied to a specific operational mission," said Anthony Tether, the agency's director. "DARPA supplies technological options for the entire department, and is designed to be a specialized 'technological engine' for transforming DoD."
Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England told audience members that the United States depends on the agency to continue providing state-of-the-art technology to the nation's servicemembers.
"The nation is relying on DARPA to dramatically move the frontier of technology rapidly forward in a way that we can put it into work in the field," he said.
While the next half century holds uncertainty, the continuing success of DARPA will remain constant, England said.
"We can only imagine what the next 50 years will bring," he continued. "But we can be assured that DARPA will continue to ensure that America retains its technological edge."
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - When Russia surprised the world a half century ago by launching the Sputnik satellite through Earth's atmosphere, the ripple effect spurred the White House into action. In response to the Russian gambit, President Dwight D. Eisenhower in February 1958 commissioned the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Fifty years later, the agency's mission remains clear: prevent future technological surprises for the United States and create them for the nation's enemies.
"The man in the White House, Dwight Eisenhower, didn't scare easy," Vice President Richard B. Cheney said here last night at a dinner honoring 50 years of DARPA. "He had complete, justified confidence in this nation's ability to reclaim the technological edge and to hold it from then on."
Several hundred past and present DARPA employees gathered to celebrate a half century of success that produced the Saturn V rocket that enabled U.S. Apollo missions to fly to the moon, stealth aircraft, guided munitions, body armor, and an early version of today's Internet, to name some of the agency's mainstays.
"If you've been associated with this agency, you're the kind of person who lives and breathes technology, and you have a place in the story of the past 50 years," said Cheney, the evening's keynote speaker. "It's a story of boldness and excellence; of visionary, high-yield projects; and of service above self.
"And all of these have been directed to the highest purposes that a citizen can assume: the safety of our people, the security of our nation, and the survival of freedom itself," he said.
Cheney, who served as secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush, remarked that there was a shortage of unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, during Operation Desert Storm. Thanks to DARPA, the technology advanced through the 1990s, and unmanned aircraft now play a vital role in current U.S. operations, he said.
"We've been able to use it all the time in both Afghanistan and Iraq -- for reconnaissance, for remote sensing, and to strike the enemy," said Cheney, noting that Marines in Iraq refer to the small-scale UAVs overhead as "guardian angels."
DARPA's responsiveness is possible because technological innovation is its sole guiding principle. To maintain an entrepreneurial atmosphere and the flow of new ideas, the agency hires program managers for only four to six years, frequently replenishing the organization with fresh perspective, according to DARPA's Web site.
In contrast to the private sector, program managers understand their short timelines at DARPA and therefore are willing to pursue high-risk technical ideas, even those with a reasonable chance of failure, the Web site said. Without bureaucratic distractions and with few institutional interests, the agency pursues a largely unabated mission: radical innovation for national security.
"DARPA is the Department of Defense's only research agency not tied to a specific operational mission," said Anthony Tether, the agency's director. "DARPA supplies technological options for the entire department, and is designed to be a specialized 'technological engine' for transforming DoD."
Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon R. England told audience members that the United States depends on the agency to continue providing state-of-the-art technology to the nation's servicemembers.
"The nation is relying on DARPA to dramatically move the frontier of technology rapidly forward in a way that we can put it into work in the field," he said.
While the next half century holds uncertainty, the continuing success of DARPA will remain constant, England said.
"We can only imagine what the next 50 years will bring," he continued. "But we can be assured that DARPA will continue to ensure that America retains its technological edge."
Research Agency Showcases Robot-Driven Vehicles at Pentagon
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Defense Department employees got a glimpse of the automobile of the future at a display of robot-driven vehicles in the Pentagon's center courtyard today. The small four-door sedan, compact station wagon and four sport utility vehicles in the exhibit can navigate themselves without human drivers through a combination of servo-devices and radar- and laser-enabled sensors, said Anthony J. Tether, director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.
DARPA, now 50 years old, is a Defense Department agency that develops new technology for military use.
"Imagine if we had convoys being driven by robots," Tether said. Military use of autonomous vehicles would nullify the human impact of roadside bombs used by terrorists in Iraq and Afghanistan, he explained.
The vehicles on display at the Pentagon had vied for honors during a DARPA-sponsored competition called Urban Challenge that was held Nov. 3 on a closed course at the former George Air Force Base, in Victorville, Calif. A modified 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe entered by Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh won first place, earning a $2 million cash award for its Tartan Racing design team.
A computer brain that "rides" in the back of the General Motors-donated Tahoe takes the place of human thinking to drive the truck, said "Red" Whittaker, leader of the Tartan Racing team.
The much-modified, gasoline-powered truck incorporates a mix of radar- and laser-operated sensors to "see" where it is going, Whittaker said. Its multiple sensors collect data "and then the computer blends those into a complete model of what is going on," he explained.
"This robot with computers is very good at seeing what's occurring now and what it projects will happen in the future," Whittaker said.
The current leading markets for robot-operated vehicles include farming and surface-mining operations, Whittaker noted. Yet, the automotive market could be the "blockbuster" of all potential markets for autonomous vehicles, he said. The U.S. government has long studied the feasibility and potential benefits of so-called "automated highways" featuring vehicles that drive themselves, he noted.
Future use of such highways would likely reduce automobile accidents and provide more efficient traffic management, Whittaker predicted.
"The automotive industry believes in the vision of driving automation," Whittaker pointed out. "And, that's a big change from how things were a year ago."
Maj. John A. Moberly of the Army Staff was impressed with the robot-driven vehicles on display.
"It is amazing technology that can save lives for us in the Army," Moberly said. "There is still definitely work to do and obstacles to overcome, but it is very promising."
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Defense Department employees got a glimpse of the automobile of the future at a display of robot-driven vehicles in the Pentagon's center courtyard today. The small four-door sedan, compact station wagon and four sport utility vehicles in the exhibit can navigate themselves without human drivers through a combination of servo-devices and radar- and laser-enabled sensors, said Anthony J. Tether, director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.
DARPA, now 50 years old, is a Defense Department agency that develops new technology for military use.
"Imagine if we had convoys being driven by robots," Tether said. Military use of autonomous vehicles would nullify the human impact of roadside bombs used by terrorists in Iraq and Afghanistan, he explained.
The vehicles on display at the Pentagon had vied for honors during a DARPA-sponsored competition called Urban Challenge that was held Nov. 3 on a closed course at the former George Air Force Base, in Victorville, Calif. A modified 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe entered by Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh won first place, earning a $2 million cash award for its Tartan Racing design team.
A computer brain that "rides" in the back of the General Motors-donated Tahoe takes the place of human thinking to drive the truck, said "Red" Whittaker, leader of the Tartan Racing team.
The much-modified, gasoline-powered truck incorporates a mix of radar- and laser-operated sensors to "see" where it is going, Whittaker said. Its multiple sensors collect data "and then the computer blends those into a complete model of what is going on," he explained.
"This robot with computers is very good at seeing what's occurring now and what it projects will happen in the future," Whittaker said.
The current leading markets for robot-operated vehicles include farming and surface-mining operations, Whittaker noted. Yet, the automotive market could be the "blockbuster" of all potential markets for autonomous vehicles, he said. The U.S. government has long studied the feasibility and potential benefits of so-called "automated highways" featuring vehicles that drive themselves, he noted.
Future use of such highways would likely reduce automobile accidents and provide more efficient traffic management, Whittaker predicted.
"The automotive industry believes in the vision of driving automation," Whittaker pointed out. "And, that's a big change from how things were a year ago."
Maj. John A. Moberly of the Army Staff was impressed with the robot-driven vehicles on display.
"It is amazing technology that can save lives for us in the Army," Moberly said. "There is still definitely work to do and obstacles to overcome, but it is very promising."
MILITARY CONTRACTS April 11, 2008
NAVY
Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding – Newport News, Newport News, Va., is being awarded a $453,263,184 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for the accomplishment of the fiscal year 2008 Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (EDSRA) of USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The CVN 65 FY08 EDSRA is a ship depot availability of approximately 16-month duration. EDSRAs are similar to overhauls in that they restore the ship, including all subsystems that affect combat capability and safety, to established performance standards. Additionally, an EDSRA provides an opportunity to perform hull inspections and recoating, radiological surveys, and other maintenance related evolutions below the waterline that cannot be accomplished while the ship is waterborne. The EDSRA provides sufficient time to perform more extensive propulsion plant repairs and testing than is possible during an Extended Selected Restricted Availability (ESRA). Work will be performed in Newport News, Va., and work is expected to be completed by August 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-08-C-2100).
Northrop Grumman Corp. Integration Systems, Bethpage, N.Y., is being awarded a $101,900,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the Fiscal Year 2007 full rate production (LOT III) of seven AN/ALQ-218 Tactical Jamming System Receivers (TJSRs), a component of the EA-6B Airborne Electronic Attack Aircraft. In addition, this contract provides for spare Shop Replacement Assemblies and Weapons Replacement Assemblies. Work will be performed in Baltimore, Md. (57 percent), Bethpage, N.Y. (30 percent); various locations throughout the United States (8 percent); Nashua, N.H. (2.5 percent); and San Diego, Calif. (2.5 percent), and work is expected to be completed in November 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N00019-08-D-0002).
ITT Communications & Countermeasures Systems, Thousand Oaks, Calif., is being awarded a $45,194,148 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-6311) for the production and support of 586 JCREW 2.1 Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) Electronic Warfare (CREW) systems to meet urgent Department of Defense (DoD) requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Vehicle mounted CREW systems are one element of the DoD's Joint Counter RCIED Electronic Warfare program. Spiral 2.1 CREW systems are vehicle mounted electronic jammers designed to prevent the initiation of RCIED. This contract is for the urgent procurement and support of CREW systems, to be used by the military service of the Air Force for the Global War on Terror. The Navy manages the joint CREW program for Office of the Secretary of Defense. Work will be performed in Thousand Oaks, Calif. (87 percent) and Lancaster, Calif. (13 percent) and is expected to be complete by November 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C. is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Foster Fuels, Inc., Brookneal, Va.* is being awarded a maximum $55,000,000.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for providing complete ground fuel support. Other locations of performance are in Texas, Louisiana, Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. Using services are Federal Civilian Agencies. This proposal was originally solicited on FedBizOps with one response. This contract has a one year base period and two one-year option periods. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is April 10, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-08-D-4000).
Link-Belt Construction Equipment Co., Lexington, Ky., is being awarded a maximum $21,233,151.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for 50 ton rough terrain crane, manuals and spare parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There were originally seven proposals solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 31, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-01-D-0103-0012).
Eaton Aeroquip, Jackson, Mich. is being awarded a maximum $16,553,445.15 firm fixed price, indefinite quantity contract for aircraft parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 21 proposals solicited with six responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is April 7, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio (SPM7AX-08-D-9002).
Adams Brothers Produce Co., Inc., Birmingham, Ala.* is being awarded a maximum $7,616,239.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment, total set-aside contract for fresh fruit and vegetables support. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and U.S. Department of Agriculture. This proposal was originally DIBBS solicited with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 10, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-08-D-P044).
AIR FORCE
Battelle Memorial Institute of Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a contract for $26,092,199. This action will provide chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense concepts, capability integration and development for the Joint Requirements Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense. At this time $7,469,280 has been obligated. Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-00-D-3180, Delivery Order: 0537).
Rockwell Collins, Inc., Government Systems of Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a modified firm fixed price contract for $21,765,082. This contract modification exercises production options for the purchase of 9,746 Defense Advanced GPS Receivers (DAGRs) and accessories. The DAGR will provide authorized Department of Defense (DoD) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) users of GPS User Equipment (UE) a Precise Positioning System (PPS), hand-held, dual-frequency (L1/L2), lightweight receiver (less than one pound) that incorporates the next generation, tamper-resistant GPS "SAASM" (Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module) Security module. The DAGR will serve as a replacement for the Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver (PLGR) in integrated platforms as well as for the advanced and basic GPS user. At this time $21,765,082 has been obligated. El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-02-C-0011; Modification No. P00061).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Integrated Systems Air Combat Systems of San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a modified fixed price incentive firm contract for $21,332,347. This contract will provide for long lead associated with five Airborne Signals Intelligence Payload Sensors to be procured in conjunction with Global Hawk Lot 8 Air Vehicles. At this time $21,332,347 has been obligated. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-08-C-3001 P00001).
L3 Communications Cincinnati Electronics Corp. of Mason, Ohio, is being awarded a firm fixed price price incentive firm contract for $10,747,021. This action provides for Sensor Unit (SU) Upgrade for AN/AAR-44 program: Sensor Unit Modification Kit 210 each; Unit Test Set 23 each; Channel Acquisition Circuit Card Assembly (CCA) 20 each; Controller CCA 20 each; Distribution CCA 20 each; Communication Controller CCA 20 each; Test Set Interface CCA 20 each; Test Set Interface CCA 1 LO; Data 1 LO; Travel 1 LO. At this time $10,747,021 has been obligated. Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8509-08-C-0011).
Battelle Memorial Institute of Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a contract for $6,156,138. This action will provide nonclinical, preclinical and drug delivery studies of MMB4 Dimethanesulfonate. At this time $90,676 has been obligated. Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-00-D-3180, Delivery Order: 0540).
ARMY
DRS Sensors & Targeting Systems, Optronics Division, was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $23,300,110 firm-fixed price contract for 7,991 driver's vision enhancer b-kits and associated spares for the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Program. Work will be performed in Melbourne, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 30, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Nov. 21, 2003, and three bids were received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-04-C-J202).
Systems Research & Application Corp., Fairfax, Va. was awarded on April 9, 2008. a $20,712,791 cost-plus award fee and firm-fixed price contract for the deployment of all National Geospatial Intelligence Agency's East Mission and Personnel to New Campus East facility. Work will be performed in Sterling, Va. and is expected to be completed by March 12, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Sept. 20, 2007, and two bids were received. National Geospatial Intelligency Agency, Reston, Va., is the contracting activity (HM0140-08-C-0004).
I.L. Fleming, Inc., Midway, Ga. Was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $10,249,500 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Center. Work will be performed at Fort Jackson, S.C., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 9, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Jan. 2, 2008, and seven bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Savannah, Ga. Is the contracting activity (W912HN-08-C-0021).
UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
Presidential Airways, Inc., an Aviation Worldwide Services Company of Moyock, N.C., is being awarded a $16,346,186 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for rotary wing aircraft, personnel, equipment, tools, material, maintenance and supervision necessary to perform passenger and cargo air transportation services. Work will be performed in Afghanistan and is expected to start May 01, 2008 to be completed by Nov. 30, 2008. Contract funds will expire at the end of this current fiscal year. This contract was a sole-source acquisition. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. (HTC711-08-D-0021).
Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding – Newport News, Newport News, Va., is being awarded a $453,263,184 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for the accomplishment of the fiscal year 2008 Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (EDSRA) of USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The CVN 65 FY08 EDSRA is a ship depot availability of approximately 16-month duration. EDSRAs are similar to overhauls in that they restore the ship, including all subsystems that affect combat capability and safety, to established performance standards. Additionally, an EDSRA provides an opportunity to perform hull inspections and recoating, radiological surveys, and other maintenance related evolutions below the waterline that cannot be accomplished while the ship is waterborne. The EDSRA provides sufficient time to perform more extensive propulsion plant repairs and testing than is possible during an Extended Selected Restricted Availability (ESRA). Work will be performed in Newport News, Va., and work is expected to be completed by August 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-08-C-2100).
Northrop Grumman Corp. Integration Systems, Bethpage, N.Y., is being awarded a $101,900,000 firm-fixed-price contract for the Fiscal Year 2007 full rate production (LOT III) of seven AN/ALQ-218 Tactical Jamming System Receivers (TJSRs), a component of the EA-6B Airborne Electronic Attack Aircraft. In addition, this contract provides for spare Shop Replacement Assemblies and Weapons Replacement Assemblies. Work will be performed in Baltimore, Md. (57 percent), Bethpage, N.Y. (30 percent); various locations throughout the United States (8 percent); Nashua, N.H. (2.5 percent); and San Diego, Calif. (2.5 percent), and work is expected to be completed in November 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity (N00019-08-D-0002).
ITT Communications & Countermeasures Systems, Thousand Oaks, Calif., is being awarded a $45,194,148 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-6311) for the production and support of 586 JCREW 2.1 Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) Electronic Warfare (CREW) systems to meet urgent Department of Defense (DoD) requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Vehicle mounted CREW systems are one element of the DoD's Joint Counter RCIED Electronic Warfare program. Spiral 2.1 CREW systems are vehicle mounted electronic jammers designed to prevent the initiation of RCIED. This contract is for the urgent procurement and support of CREW systems, to be used by the military service of the Air Force for the Global War on Terror. The Navy manages the joint CREW program for Office of the Secretary of Defense. Work will be performed in Thousand Oaks, Calif. (87 percent) and Lancaster, Calif. (13 percent) and is expected to be complete by November 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C. is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Foster Fuels, Inc., Brookneal, Va.* is being awarded a maximum $55,000,000.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for providing complete ground fuel support. Other locations of performance are in Texas, Louisiana, Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. Using services are Federal Civilian Agencies. This proposal was originally solicited on FedBizOps with one response. This contract has a one year base period and two one-year option periods. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is April 10, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-08-D-4000).
Link-Belt Construction Equipment Co., Lexington, Ky., is being awarded a maximum $21,233,151.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for 50 ton rough terrain crane, manuals and spare parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There were originally seven proposals solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 31, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM500-01-D-0103-0012).
Eaton Aeroquip, Jackson, Mich. is being awarded a maximum $16,553,445.15 firm fixed price, indefinite quantity contract for aircraft parts. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. There were originally 21 proposals solicited with six responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is April 7, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Columbus, Columbus, Ohio (SPM7AX-08-D-9002).
Adams Brothers Produce Co., Inc., Birmingham, Ala.* is being awarded a maximum $7,616,239.00 fixed price with economic price adjustment, total set-aside contract for fresh fruit and vegetables support. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and U.S. Department of Agriculture. This proposal was originally DIBBS solicited with two responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is Oct. 10, 2009. The contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa. (SPM300-08-D-P044).
AIR FORCE
Battelle Memorial Institute of Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a contract for $26,092,199. This action will provide chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense concepts, capability integration and development for the Joint Requirements Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense. At this time $7,469,280 has been obligated. Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-00-D-3180, Delivery Order: 0537).
Rockwell Collins, Inc., Government Systems of Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a modified firm fixed price contract for $21,765,082. This contract modification exercises production options for the purchase of 9,746 Defense Advanced GPS Receivers (DAGRs) and accessories. The DAGR will provide authorized Department of Defense (DoD) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) users of GPS User Equipment (UE) a Precise Positioning System (PPS), hand-held, dual-frequency (L1/L2), lightweight receiver (less than one pound) that incorporates the next generation, tamper-resistant GPS "SAASM" (Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module) Security module. The DAGR will serve as a replacement for the Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver (PLGR) in integrated platforms as well as for the advanced and basic GPS user. At this time $21,765,082 has been obligated. El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-02-C-0011; Modification No. P00061).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Integrated Systems Air Combat Systems of San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a modified fixed price incentive firm contract for $21,332,347. This contract will provide for long lead associated with five Airborne Signals Intelligence Payload Sensors to be procured in conjunction with Global Hawk Lot 8 Air Vehicles. At this time $21,332,347 has been obligated. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-08-C-3001 P00001).
L3 Communications Cincinnati Electronics Corp. of Mason, Ohio, is being awarded a firm fixed price price incentive firm contract for $10,747,021. This action provides for Sensor Unit (SU) Upgrade for AN/AAR-44 program: Sensor Unit Modification Kit 210 each; Unit Test Set 23 each; Channel Acquisition Circuit Card Assembly (CCA) 20 each; Controller CCA 20 each; Distribution CCA 20 each; Communication Controller CCA 20 each; Test Set Interface CCA 20 each; Test Set Interface CCA 1 LO; Data 1 LO; Travel 1 LO. At this time $10,747,021 has been obligated. Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8509-08-C-0011).
Battelle Memorial Institute of Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a contract for $6,156,138. This action will provide nonclinical, preclinical and drug delivery studies of MMB4 Dimethanesulfonate. At this time $90,676 has been obligated. Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-00-D-3180, Delivery Order: 0540).
ARMY
DRS Sensors & Targeting Systems, Optronics Division, was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $23,300,110 firm-fixed price contract for 7,991 driver's vision enhancer b-kits and associated spares for the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Program. Work will be performed in Melbourne, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 30, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Nov. 21, 2003, and three bids were received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-04-C-J202).
Systems Research & Application Corp., Fairfax, Va. was awarded on April 9, 2008. a $20,712,791 cost-plus award fee and firm-fixed price contract for the deployment of all National Geospatial Intelligence Agency's East Mission and Personnel to New Campus East facility. Work will be performed in Sterling, Va. and is expected to be completed by March 12, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Sept. 20, 2007, and two bids were received. National Geospatial Intelligency Agency, Reston, Va., is the contracting activity (HM0140-08-C-0004).
I.L. Fleming, Inc., Midway, Ga. Was awarded on April 10, 2008, a $10,249,500 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Center. Work will be performed at Fort Jackson, S.C., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 9, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Jan. 2, 2008, and seven bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Savannah, Ga. Is the contracting activity (W912HN-08-C-0021).
UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
Presidential Airways, Inc., an Aviation Worldwide Services Company of Moyock, N.C., is being awarded a $16,346,186 indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for rotary wing aircraft, personnel, equipment, tools, material, maintenance and supervision necessary to perform passenger and cargo air transportation services. Work will be performed in Afghanistan and is expected to start May 01, 2008 to be completed by Nov. 30, 2008. Contract funds will expire at the end of this current fiscal year. This contract was a sole-source acquisition. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. (HTC711-08-D-0021).
Two States Sign Compact on Education Transition for Military Children
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear signed legislation into law this week that will ease the transition for military children as their servicemember parents move from assignment to assignment during their careers. Twenty-one other states are actively considering the measure, known as the Compact on Education Transition for Military Children, and 14 of those state legislatures have bills submitted in one or both chambers. Kansas adopt the compact April 9, and Kentucky followed suit yesterday. Adoption in 10 states makes the compact operational, Defense Department officials said.
"Passage of this interstate compact will have a lasting, positive impact on our military families," said David S.C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. "Quality education is a primary quality-of-life concern. In fact, education is so important that that it directly impacts military recruitment, satisfaction with assignments, readiness, and ultimately, retention.
"We ask a lot of our military families," Chu continued. "Easing this burden is the right thing to do. We appreciate all the support and effort to implement the compact. We look forward to more states signing on."
The compact, developed by the Council of State Governments, education experts and the Defense Department, addresses common problems that affect military students as a result of frequent moves and deployments. States that sign on to it agree to work collectively with other compact states to create uniform standards of practice, including the transfer of records, course placement, graduation requirements, redundant or missed testing, entrance-age variations and other transition issues.
"We are thrilled that Kansas and Kentucky are leading the nation in seeking uniform standards for school transition for military children," Leslye A. Arsht, deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy, said.
About 1.5 million children of military families attend schools other than those sponsored by the Defense Department, and military families move about three times as often as their civilian counterparts, Arsht said. This legislation will positively affect the 19,000 school-age children of military families residing in Kansas and 30,834 school-age children in Kentucky, she noted.
"This compact really means a lot to military families," Arsht said. "Once in force, it means that a move to a new school will no longer prevent students from taking the classes they want or deny them extra-curricular activities. They won't have to repeat a class or delay graduation because they are completing a new state's requirements. The compact creates consistency and certainty for families as they move from one school to another.
"Our families also serve our nation," she continued. "We are grateful for this tangible way states are showing their appreciation."
(From a Defense Department news release.)
April 11, 2008 - Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear signed legislation into law this week that will ease the transition for military children as their servicemember parents move from assignment to assignment during their careers. Twenty-one other states are actively considering the measure, known as the Compact on Education Transition for Military Children, and 14 of those state legislatures have bills submitted in one or both chambers. Kansas adopt the compact April 9, and Kentucky followed suit yesterday. Adoption in 10 states makes the compact operational, Defense Department officials said.
"Passage of this interstate compact will have a lasting, positive impact on our military families," said David S.C. Chu, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. "Quality education is a primary quality-of-life concern. In fact, education is so important that that it directly impacts military recruitment, satisfaction with assignments, readiness, and ultimately, retention.
"We ask a lot of our military families," Chu continued. "Easing this burden is the right thing to do. We appreciate all the support and effort to implement the compact. We look forward to more states signing on."
The compact, developed by the Council of State Governments, education experts and the Defense Department, addresses common problems that affect military students as a result of frequent moves and deployments. States that sign on to it agree to work collectively with other compact states to create uniform standards of practice, including the transfer of records, course placement, graduation requirements, redundant or missed testing, entrance-age variations and other transition issues.
"We are thrilled that Kansas and Kentucky are leading the nation in seeking uniform standards for school transition for military children," Leslye A. Arsht, deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy, said.
About 1.5 million children of military families attend schools other than those sponsored by the Defense Department, and military families move about three times as often as their civilian counterparts, Arsht said. This legislation will positively affect the 19,000 school-age children of military families residing in Kansas and 30,834 school-age children in Kentucky, she noted.
"This compact really means a lot to military families," Arsht said. "Once in force, it means that a move to a new school will no longer prevent students from taking the classes they want or deny them extra-curricular activities. They won't have to repeat a class or delay graduation because they are completing a new state's requirements. The compact creates consistency and certainty for families as they move from one school to another.
"Our families also serve our nation," she continued. "We are grateful for this tangible way states are showing their appreciation."
(From a Defense Department news release.)
Pentagon to Host Special All-Military Naturalization Ceremony
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England will join U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Emilio Gonzalez and deliver the keynote address at a special military naturalization ceremony April 14, at the Pentagon. Twenty-five service members from 14 countries are scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance and become citizens of the United States during a rare all-military naturalization ceremony slated to begin at 1 p.m.
The new citizens represent are from Belize, Bolivia, Canada, Colombia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, Pakistan, Panama, Philippines and the United Kingdom. The servicemembers are from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, and include members of the National Guard and Reserve.
April 11, 2008 - Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England will join U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Emilio Gonzalez and deliver the keynote address at a special military naturalization ceremony April 14, at the Pentagon. Twenty-five service members from 14 countries are scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance and become citizens of the United States during a rare all-military naturalization ceremony slated to begin at 1 p.m.
The new citizens represent are from Belize, Bolivia, Canada, Colombia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Mexico, Pakistan, Panama, Philippines and the United Kingdom. The servicemembers are from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, and include members of the National Guard and Reserve.
PaCom, Indonesia Recommit to Shared Security Interests
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - The top U.S. officer in the Pacific met today with Indonesian President Bambang Yudoyono to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to the region and applaud Indonesia's role in maritime security, peacekeeping and other security initiatives. Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, wrapped up his two-day visit here praising Indonesia's role in promoting maritime security in the strategic Straits of Malacca.
During a joint news conference with Yudoyono, Keating noted the close cooperation among Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines that is improving their collective maritime domain awareness and law enforcement capabilities. This cooperation, Keating said, is paying off through enhanced security in the busy Malacca Straits, a transit point comparable to the Suez and Panama canals in terms of ship traffic.
Keating said he congratulated Yudoyono on the Indonesian Defense Force's peacekeeping operations around the world, and urged a closer military-to-military relationship so both countries' armed forces are better prepared to work together to promote their shared security interests.
Citing violent extremism as the greatest threat to the region, Keating said he and Yudoyono pledged to promote information and intelligence sharing, military and law enforcement engagement, and "whatever else is required" to prevent terrorists from operating here.
"We want to make it very difficult for those committed to violent extremism to move in Indonesia or anywhere in our area of responsibility for which I am in charge," he said.
Echoing sentiments expressed yesterday during his meetings with Indonesian Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono and Gen. Djoko Santoso, chief of defense, Keating encouraged greater military-to-military engagement through exercises, leadership development programs, and more personnel exchanges.
Yudoyono, who has attended several U.S. military schools through the U.S. International Military Education and Training Program, supported the idea and told Keating he welcomes the opportunity for troops to learn from each other.
Yudoyono expressed particular interest in cooperating in humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness -- a key focus here after a magnitude 9.1 underwater earthquake in December 2004 caused a tsunami that leveled much of Indonesia's Aceh province.
Keating assured Indonesian leaders yesterday that PaCom will continue helping Indonesia develop disaster response plans to ensure it's ready to jump into action should disaster strike.
As today's news conference concluded, Keating reaffirmed his great respect for the Indonesian armed forces and said he looks forward to building on the strong bonds that already exist between the Indonesian and U.S. militaries.
The upcoming Indonesia-U.S. Security Dialog, scheduled for next week in Washington, is expected to be the next major step in that direction.
American Forces Press Service
April 11, 2008 - The top U.S. officer in the Pacific met today with Indonesian President Bambang Yudoyono to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to the region and applaud Indonesia's role in maritime security, peacekeeping and other security initiatives. Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, wrapped up his two-day visit here praising Indonesia's role in promoting maritime security in the strategic Straits of Malacca.
During a joint news conference with Yudoyono, Keating noted the close cooperation among Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines that is improving their collective maritime domain awareness and law enforcement capabilities. This cooperation, Keating said, is paying off through enhanced security in the busy Malacca Straits, a transit point comparable to the Suez and Panama canals in terms of ship traffic.
Keating said he congratulated Yudoyono on the Indonesian Defense Force's peacekeeping operations around the world, and urged a closer military-to-military relationship so both countries' armed forces are better prepared to work together to promote their shared security interests.
Citing violent extremism as the greatest threat to the region, Keating said he and Yudoyono pledged to promote information and intelligence sharing, military and law enforcement engagement, and "whatever else is required" to prevent terrorists from operating here.
"We want to make it very difficult for those committed to violent extremism to move in Indonesia or anywhere in our area of responsibility for which I am in charge," he said.
Echoing sentiments expressed yesterday during his meetings with Indonesian Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono and Gen. Djoko Santoso, chief of defense, Keating encouraged greater military-to-military engagement through exercises, leadership development programs, and more personnel exchanges.
Yudoyono, who has attended several U.S. military schools through the U.S. International Military Education and Training Program, supported the idea and told Keating he welcomes the opportunity for troops to learn from each other.
Yudoyono expressed particular interest in cooperating in humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness -- a key focus here after a magnitude 9.1 underwater earthquake in December 2004 caused a tsunami that leveled much of Indonesia's Aceh province.
Keating assured Indonesian leaders yesterday that PaCom will continue helping Indonesia develop disaster response plans to ensure it's ready to jump into action should disaster strike.
As today's news conference concluded, Keating reaffirmed his great respect for the Indonesian armed forces and said he looks forward to building on the strong bonds that already exist between the Indonesian and U.S. militaries.
The upcoming Indonesia-U.S. Security Dialog, scheduled for next week in Washington, is expected to be the next major step in that direction.
Face of Defense: Loadmaster Helps War Effort, Provides Humanitarian Aid
By Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawn J. Jones
Special to American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - A Fort Mill, S.C., native contributes to the war on terror by transporting cargo -- everything from hand grenades to bottled water -- all over the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Air Force Airman 1st Class Joshua Weston is serving a four-month deployment as a loadmaster with 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron from Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. He is responsible for managing the vast cargo compartment of a C-17 Globemaster III, and his unit transports cargo and passengers that directly facilitate U.S. goals of bringing stability to the region.
"Initially, I joined the Air Force to travel and see the world," Weston said. So far, the 2006 graduate of Fort Mill High School has achieved that goal. Despite having less than two years of Air Force service, he has accumulated an extensive travel history. He's part of a crew that has flown missions to more than 10 countries, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, Germany and Kenya.
Senior members of his crew say Weston is making a favorable impression.
"Airman Weston is a new, young loadmaster that brings enthusiasm and new, refreshing perspectives to C-17 operations," said fellow crew member Capt. Travis Elliott, a C-17 pilot.
The versatility of C-17 operations makes it a popular choice to transport troops, equipment and humanitarian supplies all over the globe. Weston and his fellow crew members displayed that versatility during a mission last month. In the first leg of the mission, the crew delivered ammunition and grenades to coalition troops serving in Djibouti on the Horn of Africa. Before leaving, the crew uploaded a team of Navy construction specialists and 100,000 pounds of equipment bound for a humanitarian well-drilling project in northeast Kenya.
"It is always extremely rewarding to see our efforts pay off," he said. "In this case, we were able to supply machinery so that people under drought conditions could receive water, a basic need of life."
Weston said he has also transported coalition troops, vehicles and ammunition in and out of combat zones.
"I continually see new things taking place in the world," he said. "If there is a big event in the world, I am always somehow a part of it."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawn J. Jones serves with U.S. Air Forces Central Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - A Fort Mill, S.C., native contributes to the war on terror by transporting cargo -- everything from hand grenades to bottled water -- all over the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Air Force Airman 1st Class Joshua Weston is serving a four-month deployment as a loadmaster with 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron from Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. He is responsible for managing the vast cargo compartment of a C-17 Globemaster III, and his unit transports cargo and passengers that directly facilitate U.S. goals of bringing stability to the region.
"Initially, I joined the Air Force to travel and see the world," Weston said. So far, the 2006 graduate of Fort Mill High School has achieved that goal. Despite having less than two years of Air Force service, he has accumulated an extensive travel history. He's part of a crew that has flown missions to more than 10 countries, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, Germany and Kenya.
Senior members of his crew say Weston is making a favorable impression.
"Airman Weston is a new, young loadmaster that brings enthusiasm and new, refreshing perspectives to C-17 operations," said fellow crew member Capt. Travis Elliott, a C-17 pilot.
The versatility of C-17 operations makes it a popular choice to transport troops, equipment and humanitarian supplies all over the globe. Weston and his fellow crew members displayed that versatility during a mission last month. In the first leg of the mission, the crew delivered ammunition and grenades to coalition troops serving in Djibouti on the Horn of Africa. Before leaving, the crew uploaded a team of Navy construction specialists and 100,000 pounds of equipment bound for a humanitarian well-drilling project in northeast Kenya.
"It is always extremely rewarding to see our efforts pay off," he said. "In this case, we were able to supply machinery so that people under drought conditions could receive water, a basic need of life."
Weston said he has also transported coalition troops, vehicles and ammunition in and out of combat zones.
"I continually see new things taking place in the world," he said. "If there is a big event in the world, I am always somehow a part of it."
(Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawn J. Jones serves with U.S. Air Forces Central Public Affairs.)
Soldier Missing in Action from The Korean War is Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
He is Sgt. Virgil L. Phillips, U.S. Army, of Columbus, Ind. He will be buried on April 19 in Loogootee, Ind.
Representatives from the Army met with Phillips' next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process, and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the secretary of the Army.
In November 1950, Phillips was assigned to Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division then operating in Unsan, North Korea, near a bend in the Kuryong River known as the Camel's Head. On Nov. 1, parts of two Chinese Communist divisions struck the 1st Cavalry Division's lines, collapsing the perimeter and forcing a withdrawal. In the process, the 3rd Battalion was surrounded and effectively ceased to exist as a fighting unit. Phillips was one of the more than 350 servicemen unaccounted-for from the battle at Unsan.
In 2003, a joint U.S.-Democratic People's Republic of Korea team (D.P.R.K.), led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), excavated a burial site near the Camel's Head. The team recovered human remains and other material evidence. Information from the D.P.R.K. indicated that the remains were initially buried near the battle site, but were later moved to a location nearby because of construction in the area.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of Phillips' remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.
He is Sgt. Virgil L. Phillips, U.S. Army, of Columbus, Ind. He will be buried on April 19 in Loogootee, Ind.
Representatives from the Army met with Phillips' next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process, and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the secretary of the Army.
In November 1950, Phillips was assigned to Company K, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division then operating in Unsan, North Korea, near a bend in the Kuryong River known as the Camel's Head. On Nov. 1, parts of two Chinese Communist divisions struck the 1st Cavalry Division's lines, collapsing the perimeter and forcing a withdrawal. In the process, the 3rd Battalion was surrounded and effectively ceased to exist as a fighting unit. Phillips was one of the more than 350 servicemen unaccounted-for from the battle at Unsan.
In 2003, a joint U.S.-Democratic People's Republic of Korea team (D.P.R.K.), led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), excavated a burial site near the Camel's Head. The team recovered human remains and other material evidence. Information from the D.P.R.K. indicated that the remains were initially buried near the battle site, but were later moved to a location nearby because of construction in the area.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of Phillips' remains.
For additional information on the Defense Department's mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.
PaCom Chief Lauds U.S.-Indonesian Ties, Urges Closer Cooperation
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - The top U.S. military officer in the Pacific pledged today to continue working to build on the United States' solid military-to-military relationship with Indonesia through exercises, military exchanges and information sharing. Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, met with Indonesian Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono, Defense Chief Gen. Djoko Santoso and other officials during his second visit here since taking PaCom's helm in March 2007.
The visit "highlights the importance we attach to the relationship we enjoy between the United States Pacific Command and Indonesia," Keating told reporters following today's sessions.
Throughout the meetings, Keating said, he emphasized the importance the United States attaches to Indonesia in its theater security cooperation plan.
"Indonesia plays a prominent role in the goals we have for our entire region," he said. "We have had great discussions with the leaders of Indonesia and look forward to continued warm relations with our partner here in Indonesia for decades and decades to come."
Keating noted the key role of Indonesian defense forces -- known as "TNI," for Tentara Nasional Indonesia -- in maritime security. TNI's operational area includes the strategic Malacca Strait, which is considered one of the world's most important waterways.
Keating urged greater multilateral cooperation to support this effort, with all countries with a vested interest in the region's maritime security cooperating and sharing both information and best practices. These include not just the United States and Indonesia, but also Malaysia, the Philippines, India and other neighbors.
"It is of very high strategic, operational and tactical importance to us that all of us do everything that we can to enhance maritime security in ... the area in which Indonesia is located," he said.
Toward that end, Indonesia is working with the Philippines and Malaysia to improve intelligence sharing to safeguard vessels' passage through the Malacca Strait. In addition, it is joining with Singapore, Malaysia and, most recently, Thailand to improve maritime domain awareness and law enforcement capabilities vital to the strait.
Keating said he thanked Sudarsono today for Indonesia's contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions in Lebanon and Darfur, Sudan. "This is a significant commitment by Indonesia's military, and we applaud that effort," he told reporters.
Pointing to the growth in exchanges between the U.S. and Indonesian militaries, from mid-grade enlisted members to senior officers, Keating said he'd like to see even more. Less than 10 years ago, fewer than a dozen people took part in these exchanges. This year, that number has jumped to more than 125.
"So it is a significantly expanded range of opportunities for us, and it is not just quantity we are emphasizing," he said. "It is quality and technological advance where we will share our best practices with the TNI."
Keating introduced Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Jim Roy, his senior enlisted advisor, who is working with the Indonesians to promote exchanges for enlisted members and noncommissioned officers.
Roy said the exchanges promote leadership as well as technical skills, benefiting both countries' militaries. "We are very excited about those opportunities," he said. "There are some to come this year and many more to come in the years ahead."
The military-to-military relationship between the United States and Indonesia continues to develop, reaching its highest level since 1999. This relationship not only helps Indonesia build capacity, but also promotes interagency and international cooperation and information sharing, which PaCom officials called key to confronting regional challenges.
Keating said it's in PaCom's and the entire U.S. military's interest "to develop, maintain and even improve the military-to-military relations we have enjoyed for many years."
"And I promise you, we will do everything we can to enhance them in the future," he said.
Keating's visit reinforced the message Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates brought here in late February, when the secretary called Indonesia "an important regional leader with global reach."
"Our relationship with Indonesia has made great strides in the past few years, and I have every expectation that it will continue to do so in the near and far future," Gates said during a speech at the Indonesian Council on World Affairs.
The secretary's discussions here centered on ways the United States can work more closely with the Indonesian military, helping it continue its reformation effort and improve its air and maritime capabilities.
Asked by reporters today about Indonesia's intent to buy F-16 aircraft from the United States in 2010, Keating confirmed general Defense Department endorsement. "We at Pacific Command are all for that," he said.
American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - The top U.S. military officer in the Pacific pledged today to continue working to build on the United States' solid military-to-military relationship with Indonesia through exercises, military exchanges and information sharing. Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, met with Indonesian Defense Minister Juwono Sudarsono, Defense Chief Gen. Djoko Santoso and other officials during his second visit here since taking PaCom's helm in March 2007.
The visit "highlights the importance we attach to the relationship we enjoy between the United States Pacific Command and Indonesia," Keating told reporters following today's sessions.
Throughout the meetings, Keating said, he emphasized the importance the United States attaches to Indonesia in its theater security cooperation plan.
"Indonesia plays a prominent role in the goals we have for our entire region," he said. "We have had great discussions with the leaders of Indonesia and look forward to continued warm relations with our partner here in Indonesia for decades and decades to come."
Keating noted the key role of Indonesian defense forces -- known as "TNI," for Tentara Nasional Indonesia -- in maritime security. TNI's operational area includes the strategic Malacca Strait, which is considered one of the world's most important waterways.
Keating urged greater multilateral cooperation to support this effort, with all countries with a vested interest in the region's maritime security cooperating and sharing both information and best practices. These include not just the United States and Indonesia, but also Malaysia, the Philippines, India and other neighbors.
"It is of very high strategic, operational and tactical importance to us that all of us do everything that we can to enhance maritime security in ... the area in which Indonesia is located," he said.
Toward that end, Indonesia is working with the Philippines and Malaysia to improve intelligence sharing to safeguard vessels' passage through the Malacca Strait. In addition, it is joining with Singapore, Malaysia and, most recently, Thailand to improve maritime domain awareness and law enforcement capabilities vital to the strait.
Keating said he thanked Sudarsono today for Indonesia's contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions in Lebanon and Darfur, Sudan. "This is a significant commitment by Indonesia's military, and we applaud that effort," he told reporters.
Pointing to the growth in exchanges between the U.S. and Indonesian militaries, from mid-grade enlisted members to senior officers, Keating said he'd like to see even more. Less than 10 years ago, fewer than a dozen people took part in these exchanges. This year, that number has jumped to more than 125.
"So it is a significantly expanded range of opportunities for us, and it is not just quantity we are emphasizing," he said. "It is quality and technological advance where we will share our best practices with the TNI."
Keating introduced Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Jim Roy, his senior enlisted advisor, who is working with the Indonesians to promote exchanges for enlisted members and noncommissioned officers.
Roy said the exchanges promote leadership as well as technical skills, benefiting both countries' militaries. "We are very excited about those opportunities," he said. "There are some to come this year and many more to come in the years ahead."
The military-to-military relationship between the United States and Indonesia continues to develop, reaching its highest level since 1999. This relationship not only helps Indonesia build capacity, but also promotes interagency and international cooperation and information sharing, which PaCom officials called key to confronting regional challenges.
Keating said it's in PaCom's and the entire U.S. military's interest "to develop, maintain and even improve the military-to-military relations we have enjoyed for many years."
"And I promise you, we will do everything we can to enhance them in the future," he said.
Keating's visit reinforced the message Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates brought here in late February, when the secretary called Indonesia "an important regional leader with global reach."
"Our relationship with Indonesia has made great strides in the past few years, and I have every expectation that it will continue to do so in the near and far future," Gates said during a speech at the Indonesian Council on World Affairs.
The secretary's discussions here centered on ways the United States can work more closely with the Indonesian military, helping it continue its reformation effort and improve its air and maritime capabilities.
Asked by reporters today about Indonesia's intent to buy F-16 aircraft from the United States in 2010, Keating confirmed general Defense Department endorsement. "We at Pacific Command are all for that," he said.
PaCom Commander Visits Marine Security Detachment in Jakarta
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - Three months into his job as detachment commander, Marine Corps Staff Sgt. James Sturla said he's hard-pressed to find a more interesting or gratifying job than overseeing his fellow Marines who guard the U.S. Embassy here. Sturla commands Marine Security Guard Detachment Jakarta, where eight Marines are charged with protecting embassy property and personnel while safeguarding classified material.
Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, paid the Marines a call today on his way to a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron Hume.
Keating, here for visits with Indonesian government and military leaders to discuss mutual security interests and promote closer cooperation, thanked the Marines for their service and presented each his PaCom commander's coin. "Thanks," Keating told the Marines. "You make us proud."
Sgt. Gregory Rodriguez, a seven-year Marine serving his first security guard posting here, called Keating's visit a special treat, one day before his 29th birthday. "It's like a birthday gift," he said. "It feels good that he took time out of his busy schedule to say thanks. That means a lot."
Duty with a Marine security guard detachment is light years apart from just about any other duty a Marine might pull, Sturla said. Instead of serving within a military unit, the Marines become part of the diplomatic community, living and working among U.S. State Department employees and their families.
"This duty is a lot different than being in the fleet," Sturla said. "There's a lot less stress here, especially compared to being deployed (to a combat zone). But that said, you always have to be on guard, ready to respond to an actual event at the embassy."
All but one of the guards has deployed into combat at least once. Sturla was wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade during combat near Iraq's border with Syria in September 2004. Despite serious arm and torso injures and severe burns to his hand, he went on to serve another deployment.
Sturla and the rest of the guard detachment agree that combat experience pays off here, where they're required to be on their toes and ready to respond in an instant. "You have to be flexible, real flexible," said Sgt. Jesse Spears. "You have to be able to think on your feet."
As they serve at U.S. Embassies around the world, Marine security guards recognize the trust placed in them -- a trust that sometimes comes at a huge price. Marine Sgt. Nathaniel Aliganga was killed during the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1997. The Marine security guard residence there is dedicated in his memory.
Marines volunteer for the security guard program, agreeing to serve three consecutive one-year tours at different embassies. All except the detachment commander are required to certify that they're unmarried and won't tie the knot any time during their three-year assignment.
Sturla, who as commander serves 18 months at two different embassies, was permitted to bring his wife and two children here to Jakarta, where they live in embassy housing. "It's pretty nice," Sturla said. "They like it a lot."
While the duty is considered a "B" billet, meaning a hardship tour, the Marines pulling it give it an "A" for career opportunity and personal enrichment. Security guard duty not only improves their promotion potential, but also gives them experiences beyond anything they ever expected.
When signing up for the program, they specify their choice of assignments, ranking them 1 through 12. Spears specifically requested duty in Jakarta, figuring it was "one of those countries you normally wouldn't get to see if you weren't posted to it."
Spears served a year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, followed by a year in Abuja, Nigeria, before arriving here. Sgt. Carlos Melendez spent a year in Kampala, Uganda, followed by a coveted assignment in Milan, Italy. Harmon served a year each in Valletta, Malta, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
"You get to travel. You get experience. This is the world's best-kept secret," Harmon said. "It's a great program."
Beyond those experiences, he called the duty a learning experience that offers lessons about how other U.S. government agencies operate and the contributions they make. "It opens a lot of doors, brings you in and gives you insight about what they actually do," he said.
"It helps give you the big picture," agreed Sgt. Jeff Gordon, a fellow guard. "Not only do you get to travel a lot, but you get to see how different parts of the government work."
As they digest those insights, the Marines heartily endorsed their assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia. "There's a lot to do here," Sturla said. "You just can't get bored in Jakarta."
American Forces Press Service
April 10, 2008 - Three months into his job as detachment commander, Marine Corps Staff Sgt. James Sturla said he's hard-pressed to find a more interesting or gratifying job than overseeing his fellow Marines who guard the U.S. Embassy here. Sturla commands Marine Security Guard Detachment Jakarta, where eight Marines are charged with protecting embassy property and personnel while safeguarding classified material.
Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, paid the Marines a call today on his way to a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron Hume.
Keating, here for visits with Indonesian government and military leaders to discuss mutual security interests and promote closer cooperation, thanked the Marines for their service and presented each his PaCom commander's coin. "Thanks," Keating told the Marines. "You make us proud."
Sgt. Gregory Rodriguez, a seven-year Marine serving his first security guard posting here, called Keating's visit a special treat, one day before his 29th birthday. "It's like a birthday gift," he said. "It feels good that he took time out of his busy schedule to say thanks. That means a lot."
Duty with a Marine security guard detachment is light years apart from just about any other duty a Marine might pull, Sturla said. Instead of serving within a military unit, the Marines become part of the diplomatic community, living and working among U.S. State Department employees and their families.
"This duty is a lot different than being in the fleet," Sturla said. "There's a lot less stress here, especially compared to being deployed (to a combat zone). But that said, you always have to be on guard, ready to respond to an actual event at the embassy."
All but one of the guards has deployed into combat at least once. Sturla was wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade during combat near Iraq's border with Syria in September 2004. Despite serious arm and torso injures and severe burns to his hand, he went on to serve another deployment.
Sturla and the rest of the guard detachment agree that combat experience pays off here, where they're required to be on their toes and ready to respond in an instant. "You have to be flexible, real flexible," said Sgt. Jesse Spears. "You have to be able to think on your feet."
As they serve at U.S. Embassies around the world, Marine security guards recognize the trust placed in them -- a trust that sometimes comes at a huge price. Marine Sgt. Nathaniel Aliganga was killed during the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1997. The Marine security guard residence there is dedicated in his memory.
Marines volunteer for the security guard program, agreeing to serve three consecutive one-year tours at different embassies. All except the detachment commander are required to certify that they're unmarried and won't tie the knot any time during their three-year assignment.
Sturla, who as commander serves 18 months at two different embassies, was permitted to bring his wife and two children here to Jakarta, where they live in embassy housing. "It's pretty nice," Sturla said. "They like it a lot."
While the duty is considered a "B" billet, meaning a hardship tour, the Marines pulling it give it an "A" for career opportunity and personal enrichment. Security guard duty not only improves their promotion potential, but also gives them experiences beyond anything they ever expected.
When signing up for the program, they specify their choice of assignments, ranking them 1 through 12. Spears specifically requested duty in Jakarta, figuring it was "one of those countries you normally wouldn't get to see if you weren't posted to it."
Spears served a year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, followed by a year in Abuja, Nigeria, before arriving here. Sgt. Carlos Melendez spent a year in Kampala, Uganda, followed by a coveted assignment in Milan, Italy. Harmon served a year each in Valletta, Malta, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
"You get to travel. You get experience. This is the world's best-kept secret," Harmon said. "It's a great program."
Beyond those experiences, he called the duty a learning experience that offers lessons about how other U.S. government agencies operate and the contributions they make. "It opens a lot of doors, brings you in and gives you insight about what they actually do," he said.
"It helps give you the big picture," agreed Sgt. Jeff Gordon, a fellow guard. "Not only do you get to travel a lot, but you get to see how different parts of the government work."
As they digest those insights, the Marines heartily endorsed their assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia. "There's a lot to do here," Sturla said. "You just can't get bored in Jakarta."
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