By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - As disabled veterans tested their limits during the National Disabled Veterans Wheelchair Games, which wrapped up here yesterday, nearly 400 military volunteers provided the behind-the-scenes support that officials said made the games a success. Nebraska Army and Air National Guardsmen, as well as active-duty airmen from nearby Offutt Air Force Base helped with everything from transporting athletes to venues to serving as road guards as they crossed busy intersections to setting up sporting events, Mike Wittrock, volunteer coordinator, told American Forces Press Service.
The military volunteers lined softball fields, set up basketball courts, opened doors, and handed towels and water to parched participants. They also helped veterans through the buffet line at the Qwest Center, which served as the hub for five days of activities.
"At every single event, we had at least one military member doing volunteer duty, and you could tell they were tickled to death to do it," Wittrock said. "The military has really stepped up to the plate, just like the rest of the community, to ensure the games proceed smoothly and that the athletes are taken care of. We couldn't have put on these games without them."
Volunteerism hit record numbers for this year's games, the 28th since they began in 1981, Wittrock said. Although the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Paralyzed Veterans of America -- cosponsors of the event -- put out a call for 3,000 volunteers, 4,200 stepped forward, he said.
Some of the military support took center stage. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Phil Stacey, better known as an "American Idol" finalist during season six, opened and closed the games with his booming rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner." Stacey, assigned to Navy Community Outreach in Millington, Tenn., also served as an announcer at several of the events, including yesterday's slalom "super G" obstacle course that drew wildly screaming fans cheering on the participants.
"I'm honored to be here and to be able to meet these amazing athletes," Stacey said. "Seeing what they're able to do makes everything about this amazing."
Meanwhile, Airmen 1st Class Silvia Lisseth and Crystal Holk, both from Offutt Air Force Base, served as volunteers at a platform in the Qwest Center where winners received their medals.
Lisseth said she was blown away by the veterans' enthusiasm for the games. "It's amazing to see how much they put into this and how much heart they have in it," she said. Holk said she felt honored to announce each winner's awards before the medal presentations. "It's really inspiring to see how motivated they are to come and win these, and then to see the big smiles when they wear those medals," she said.
For Army Sgt. 1st Class Jason Guretsky, who returned home to Omaha in July after a 15-month deployment with the Nebraska Guard's 126th Chemical Battalion, volunteering at the wheelchair games offered a chance to give back to veterans who have made big sacrifices.
"All of these athletes are veterans, so it's sort of like we are helping our own," said Guretsky, who with his fellow soldiers moved water and ice, helped tear down tents and pitched in any way he could. "The veterans appreciate it when they see us in uniform, knowing that we support them.
"And it's gratifying for us, too, seeing the competitors smiling and so happy to be out there," he said. "You see them get outside and do things they never thought they could do."
Airmen 1st Class Tim and Stephanie Patenaude, a husband-and-wife team from Offutt Air Force Base, volunteered throughout the games, wrapping up the final day manning the entrance to the dining hall.
Stephanie, a munitions accountability crewmember, said she felt compelled to volunteer for the games because she recognizes all servicemembers are just one accident or incident away from becoming disabled veterans themselves. "I could be one of these people, and I would want to know that someone was there to support me," she said.
"These guys deserve this," her husband said. "They're all veterans. They have done more than their part for the country, and they deserve whatever we can do for them."
Air Force Maj. Joyce Tow, a nurse with the Nebraska Air National Guard's 155th Air Refueling Wing, helped veterans through the food service line as the wheelchair games wrapped up yesterday. But like her fellow military volunteers, she'd bounced from one job to another throughout the games. She helped the athletes collect their luggage and load on the bus as they arrived at the airport, helped set up the archery competition at a nearby high school, and planned to help the athletes through the airport check-in process today.
Tow called volunteering at the games a welcome change from her more immediate military duties of patient care. "As a nurse, I see them in the hospital, and I don't know what happens to them afterward," she said. "Here, I'm getting to see them not just function, but function at a very high level. That's pretty gratifying."
Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Steve Goodner, a fellow 155th Air Refueling Wing Guardsman, said wearing the uniform gave him a special connection to the veterans. "You can see it in their eyes. They associate with you and relate with you," he said. "They focus on you because you are wearing the uniform, and it's clear that they are very grateful for what we are doing."
Friday, August 01, 2008
California Fire Task Force Mission Becomes 'Wait and See'
By Air Force Capt. Al Bosco
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - With the latest California wildfires mostly under control, Army and Air National Guard aircrews supporting the firefighting effort can finally begin to breathe, as many aircraft are pulled from active support to a stand-by role. Since the California fires began June 21, Army and Air National Guard aircrews have flown continuously, supporting the massive firefighting operation.
At the height of the operation, more than two dozen aircraft from as many as 14 states, as far away as New York, were assigned to Joint Task Force Sentinel.
Aircrews endured the stifling heat and smoke, flying continuous fire-suppression missions and dropping nearly 4 million gallons of water on the flames that have scorched more than 900,000 acres, or an area roughly equivalent to the size of Rhode Island. In fact, just a week ago, the flight line at this former Air Force base near California's capital of Sacramento sat mostly empty, with the exception of aircraft requiring maintenance and a couple of spare aircraft ready to go if called upon.
Army Maj. David Hall, a JTF Sentinel operations officer, said operations from Mather are being scaled back based on direction from the state's Joint Forces Headquarters and as a result of inputs from the Office of Emergency Services, California's Department of Forestry and Fire Protection -- known as Calfire -- and other civil agencies indicating forces on the ground, along with civil aircraft support, are sufficient to handle the current fire situation.
"This is a balancing act, and we work with multiple agencies to determine what type of support they need from us," Hall said. "Downsizing typically occurs when our partner agencies believe they can manage the fires still burning with the civilian air and ground assets they have available."
He added that although Guard aircrews aren't likely going to see the same level of tasking, they will maintain a presence, along with ensuring aircraft are immediately available to support state missions as required.
"We have six aircraft still supporting active missions, but we'll have about four additional aircraft available that will serve as alert aircraft able to launch if needed," Hall said.
Interestingly, most of the aircraft currently on mission aren't California assets. In fact, Hall said, many of the out-of-state aircrews are taking the lead role in the effort affording the California crews a much-needed break.
"The out-of-state units showed up, and were eager to help out with the mission, so we're sending them out," Hall said. "This is a great opportunity for us and them, since they are getting some hands-on experience fighting the fires, helping out California and also giving our aircrews a chance to breathe."
In fact, Army Staff Sgt. Jim Irby, an Alabama National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crew chief, said he's anxious to get his unit's aircraft on the fires.
"We got here July 16 and completed our training, so now we're ready to get out there and help," Irby said. "We almost got to launch twice yesterday, but firefighters in the area were able to gain control of the situation quickly."
The unit got a mission July 18 -- to swap out with the Kansas National Guard aircrews supporting the Chico Complex fires, making pilot Army Chief Warrant Officer Randy Kirkland smile.
"This is what we came here for," he said as he and his crew prepared to head for their aircraft.
Calfire Wildland Battalion Chief Scott Watson said the Guard's quick response, coupled with excellent communication among the agencies, was a critical factor in the civil authorities' ability to gain control of the fire so quickly.
"It's been remarkable to take so many aircraft from different states, bring them to California and train and utilize them," Watson said. "This is a first -- an historic event -- and we've built a template showing that allegiances like this are critical. I think from this we can actually work toward a national standard for emergency response."
(Air Force Capt. Al Bosco serves with the California National Guard.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - With the latest California wildfires mostly under control, Army and Air National Guard aircrews supporting the firefighting effort can finally begin to breathe, as many aircraft are pulled from active support to a stand-by role. Since the California fires began June 21, Army and Air National Guard aircrews have flown continuously, supporting the massive firefighting operation.
At the height of the operation, more than two dozen aircraft from as many as 14 states, as far away as New York, were assigned to Joint Task Force Sentinel.
Aircrews endured the stifling heat and smoke, flying continuous fire-suppression missions and dropping nearly 4 million gallons of water on the flames that have scorched more than 900,000 acres, or an area roughly equivalent to the size of Rhode Island. In fact, just a week ago, the flight line at this former Air Force base near California's capital of Sacramento sat mostly empty, with the exception of aircraft requiring maintenance and a couple of spare aircraft ready to go if called upon.
Army Maj. David Hall, a JTF Sentinel operations officer, said operations from Mather are being scaled back based on direction from the state's Joint Forces Headquarters and as a result of inputs from the Office of Emergency Services, California's Department of Forestry and Fire Protection -- known as Calfire -- and other civil agencies indicating forces on the ground, along with civil aircraft support, are sufficient to handle the current fire situation.
"This is a balancing act, and we work with multiple agencies to determine what type of support they need from us," Hall said. "Downsizing typically occurs when our partner agencies believe they can manage the fires still burning with the civilian air and ground assets they have available."
He added that although Guard aircrews aren't likely going to see the same level of tasking, they will maintain a presence, along with ensuring aircraft are immediately available to support state missions as required.
"We have six aircraft still supporting active missions, but we'll have about four additional aircraft available that will serve as alert aircraft able to launch if needed," Hall said.
Interestingly, most of the aircraft currently on mission aren't California assets. In fact, Hall said, many of the out-of-state aircrews are taking the lead role in the effort affording the California crews a much-needed break.
"The out-of-state units showed up, and were eager to help out with the mission, so we're sending them out," Hall said. "This is a great opportunity for us and them, since they are getting some hands-on experience fighting the fires, helping out California and also giving our aircrews a chance to breathe."
In fact, Army Staff Sgt. Jim Irby, an Alabama National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crew chief, said he's anxious to get his unit's aircraft on the fires.
"We got here July 16 and completed our training, so now we're ready to get out there and help," Irby said. "We almost got to launch twice yesterday, but firefighters in the area were able to gain control of the situation quickly."
The unit got a mission July 18 -- to swap out with the Kansas National Guard aircrews supporting the Chico Complex fires, making pilot Army Chief Warrant Officer Randy Kirkland smile.
"This is what we came here for," he said as he and his crew prepared to head for their aircraft.
Calfire Wildland Battalion Chief Scott Watson said the Guard's quick response, coupled with excellent communication among the agencies, was a critical factor in the civil authorities' ability to gain control of the fire so quickly.
"It's been remarkable to take so many aircraft from different states, bring them to California and train and utilize them," Watson said. "This is a first -- an historic event -- and we've built a template showing that allegiances like this are critical. I think from this we can actually work toward a national standard for emergency response."
(Air Force Capt. Al Bosco serves with the California National Guard.)
Vets Wrap Up Wheelchair Games With Inspiration, Life Lessons
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - Nearly 500 disabled veterans closed the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games here last night celebrating new friendships made, new pride in what they've accomplished, and confidence in their abilities. Deputy Veterans Affairs Secretary Gordon H. Mansfield praised participants in the world's largest annual wheelchair sports competition during the closing ceremonies and urged them to take home the lessons learned here.
Mansfield said his message to the veterans boils down to four simple words: "You can do it."
"For the young ones, whether it's going back to school or going through job training or starting a family or getting a job, you can do it -- just like you can do it here playing these games."
And for the older veterans, Mansfield reminded them, "You can keep on doing it."
The wheelchair games bring individuals together, randomly assigning them to teams that have to work together to be competitive, he said. "The starting point is that they are veterans, and we are building on what they have learned as veterans: how to work hard, how to train, how to figure out the way to get something done, and then how to work together to make it better."
For many, this reignites the sense of camaraderie they experienced in the military. Mansfield said he's touched to see the way the veterans support and cheer each other on -- in many cases, even those they're competing against, Mansfield said. "That's the attitude you find here," he said. "It really is unbelievable."
For Tricia Labar, a former Army private first class with knee and spinal cord injuries, the last day of the wheelchair games was bittersweet. Proudly showing off the gold medal her team earned in yesterday's basketball finals, her third gold medal of the games, she said she couldn't believe how quickly the five days of events had flown by.
"I love these games," said Labar, here for her 13th straight year. "I love these guys," she said of her fellow disabled veterans. "But I hate when it's all over."
Labar said she remembers reluctantly attending her first wheelchair games shortly after finding herself in a wheelchair. She was overweight and withdrawn, and her stomach churned with nervousness about what was in store for her.
But participating in the games changed her forever. "By the end of the week, I was so excited. I was counting the days until the next one," she said.
Now trim, athletic and highly competitive, Labar said she loves the challenge of the games, but also the many friendships she's built attending them. "This is like the world's largest family reunion," she said. She reaches out to new "family members" -- recently disabled veterans -- to share her excitement about the games and the lessons she said they instill.
"When you get home, any time you find yourself hitting a wall, you can say, 'I did the Super G [slalom] and made it all the way through, so I can do this too," Labar said. "Not everyone is an athlete, but what you experience here can help you through any challenge that comes your way. It really does make a difference in your life."
Like Labar, Raul Acosta, a Marine veteran, said he renewed old friendships and built new ones during his ninth year at the wheelchair games.
"I love coming back and enjoying the camaraderie here. We all feel like family catching up," said Acosta, who had his right leg amputated due to complications from cancer surgery.
With his gold medal from the basketball competition dangling from his neck, Acosta said the games help show younger veterans they, too, can excel. "That's the big lesson here," he said. "It's one of the big things I've gotten out of these games."
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Felder, who lost his left leg in a 2006 motorcycle accident but will remain on active duty as an F-15 crew chief, said he accomplished everything he'd set out to do during his second wheelchair games. His team won the gold medal in basketball -- the most coveted award of the competition, he said -- but he gained much more on a personal level, as well.
"I got to meet a lot more of the new people and spend time talking with them," he said. "It's great being around people in similar situations and being able to share stories and network. Everybody wants to win. But being around here and getting to learn from each other is inspirational."
Felder didn't skip a beat when asked if he plans to return next year. "I'll be here, without a doubt," he said.
The games are cosponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, with financial assistance from corporate, civic, and veterans service organizations.
In addition to the wheelchair games, the VA cosponsors three other national rehabilitative events: the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic, the National Veterans Golden Age Games and the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival.
In September, the VA will host a new summer sports clinic pilot program. That event will introduce water and adventure sports such as sailing, surfing, kayaking, cycling, and track-and-field events to recently injured veterans.
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - Nearly 500 disabled veterans closed the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games here last night celebrating new friendships made, new pride in what they've accomplished, and confidence in their abilities. Deputy Veterans Affairs Secretary Gordon H. Mansfield praised participants in the world's largest annual wheelchair sports competition during the closing ceremonies and urged them to take home the lessons learned here.
Mansfield said his message to the veterans boils down to four simple words: "You can do it."
"For the young ones, whether it's going back to school or going through job training or starting a family or getting a job, you can do it -- just like you can do it here playing these games."
And for the older veterans, Mansfield reminded them, "You can keep on doing it."
The wheelchair games bring individuals together, randomly assigning them to teams that have to work together to be competitive, he said. "The starting point is that they are veterans, and we are building on what they have learned as veterans: how to work hard, how to train, how to figure out the way to get something done, and then how to work together to make it better."
For many, this reignites the sense of camaraderie they experienced in the military. Mansfield said he's touched to see the way the veterans support and cheer each other on -- in many cases, even those they're competing against, Mansfield said. "That's the attitude you find here," he said. "It really is unbelievable."
For Tricia Labar, a former Army private first class with knee and spinal cord injuries, the last day of the wheelchair games was bittersweet. Proudly showing off the gold medal her team earned in yesterday's basketball finals, her third gold medal of the games, she said she couldn't believe how quickly the five days of events had flown by.
"I love these games," said Labar, here for her 13th straight year. "I love these guys," she said of her fellow disabled veterans. "But I hate when it's all over."
Labar said she remembers reluctantly attending her first wheelchair games shortly after finding herself in a wheelchair. She was overweight and withdrawn, and her stomach churned with nervousness about what was in store for her.
But participating in the games changed her forever. "By the end of the week, I was so excited. I was counting the days until the next one," she said.
Now trim, athletic and highly competitive, Labar said she loves the challenge of the games, but also the many friendships she's built attending them. "This is like the world's largest family reunion," she said. She reaches out to new "family members" -- recently disabled veterans -- to share her excitement about the games and the lessons she said they instill.
"When you get home, any time you find yourself hitting a wall, you can say, 'I did the Super G [slalom] and made it all the way through, so I can do this too," Labar said. "Not everyone is an athlete, but what you experience here can help you through any challenge that comes your way. It really does make a difference in your life."
Like Labar, Raul Acosta, a Marine veteran, said he renewed old friendships and built new ones during his ninth year at the wheelchair games.
"I love coming back and enjoying the camaraderie here. We all feel like family catching up," said Acosta, who had his right leg amputated due to complications from cancer surgery.
With his gold medal from the basketball competition dangling from his neck, Acosta said the games help show younger veterans they, too, can excel. "That's the big lesson here," he said. "It's one of the big things I've gotten out of these games."
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Felder, who lost his left leg in a 2006 motorcycle accident but will remain on active duty as an F-15 crew chief, said he accomplished everything he'd set out to do during his second wheelchair games. His team won the gold medal in basketball -- the most coveted award of the competition, he said -- but he gained much more on a personal level, as well.
"I got to meet a lot more of the new people and spend time talking with them," he said. "It's great being around people in similar situations and being able to share stories and network. Everybody wants to win. But being around here and getting to learn from each other is inspirational."
Felder didn't skip a beat when asked if he plans to return next year. "I'll be here, without a doubt," he said.
The games are cosponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, with financial assistance from corporate, civic, and veterans service organizations.
In addition to the wheelchair games, the VA cosponsors three other national rehabilitative events: the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic, the National Veterans Golden Age Games and the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival.
In September, the VA will host a new summer sports clinic pilot program. That event will introduce water and adventure sports such as sailing, surfing, kayaking, cycling, and track-and-field events to recently injured veterans.
Army Olympians Prepare for Beijing
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - Nine U.S. Army soldiers will take aim at Olympic gold in Beijing. The soldier-Olympians are wrapping up their training throughout the United States and will depart for China in August.
Among the elite athletes is three-time Olympian Staff Sgt. Libby Callahan, a 23-year Army Reserve soldier, who at age 56 will earn the distinction of being the oldest U.S. woman Olympian ever to compete and stands a chance of becoming the oldest woman Olympic medalist ever at the Summer Games.
"It's an honor to represent the country I am proud to serve," said Callahan, who will compete in the women's sports pistol event. "The Army has not only provided me with the training and opportunities to succeed, it has given me the encouragement I need to go for the gold at the Olympics."
Staff Sgt. Dremiel Byers, a member of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, is ranked No. 1 in the United States in his weight class for Greco-Roman wrestling and earned a spot on the 2008 Olympic Team by winning the trials held in Las Vegas in June. Byers said the Army provides the training and opportunities to succeed. "We're very fortunate to do what we do," he said. "I've been with the program since 1997, and now I get to represent my country in the Olympics. The Army allows you to dream big."
Marksman Maj. Michael Anti will make his fourth Olympic appearance at the Beijing Games. After earning a silver medal in the prone rifle event at the 2004 Games, Anti purchased a silver Corvette. His goal is to upgrade to a new gold model to match the medal he hopes to earn at the 2008 Games.
The soldiers, including track and field athletes, world-class boxers, marksmen and more, are the latest in a storied line of 644 Army athletes who have participated in the Games since 1948.
"We coach elite-level athletes who already have a high level of discipline from their Army experience." said Capt. Dominic Black, commander of the Army's World Class Athlete Program. "By providing these athletes with the best training, coaching, equipment and overall support, the Army is preparing them for victory at the Olympics and beyond."
Other soldier-athletes representing the United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics are:
-- Sgt. 1st Class Jason Parker -- air rifle and three-position rifle;
-- Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Szarenski -- men's 50-meter free pistol;
-- Pfc. Vincent Hancock -- skeet;
-- Spc. Jeffrey Holguin -- double trap;
-- Spc. Walton Glenn Eller III -- double trap; and
-- U.S. Military Academy Cadet Stephen Scherer -- air rifle.
The Army's World Class Athlete Program is composed of soldier-athletes in a variety of sports who demonstrate the potential to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Team. Soldier-athletes who apply to the program must have recently attained a high national ranking or placed high at a major national or international event. Soldiers in the WCAP have earned 131 Olympic medals since 1948.
The Army Marksmanship Unit, which is sending six shooters to Beijing, has gained worldwide respect by winning hundreds of individual and team national shooting titles, more than 40 world championships and 21 Olympic medals. Since the AMU was established in 1956, its shooters have won more than half of all medals earned by U.S. shooters.
(From a U.S. Army news release.)
July 30, 2008 - Nine U.S. Army soldiers will take aim at Olympic gold in Beijing. The soldier-Olympians are wrapping up their training throughout the United States and will depart for China in August.
Among the elite athletes is three-time Olympian Staff Sgt. Libby Callahan, a 23-year Army Reserve soldier, who at age 56 will earn the distinction of being the oldest U.S. woman Olympian ever to compete and stands a chance of becoming the oldest woman Olympic medalist ever at the Summer Games.
"It's an honor to represent the country I am proud to serve," said Callahan, who will compete in the women's sports pistol event. "The Army has not only provided me with the training and opportunities to succeed, it has given me the encouragement I need to go for the gold at the Olympics."
Staff Sgt. Dremiel Byers, a member of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, is ranked No. 1 in the United States in his weight class for Greco-Roman wrestling and earned a spot on the 2008 Olympic Team by winning the trials held in Las Vegas in June. Byers said the Army provides the training and opportunities to succeed. "We're very fortunate to do what we do," he said. "I've been with the program since 1997, and now I get to represent my country in the Olympics. The Army allows you to dream big."
Marksman Maj. Michael Anti will make his fourth Olympic appearance at the Beijing Games. After earning a silver medal in the prone rifle event at the 2004 Games, Anti purchased a silver Corvette. His goal is to upgrade to a new gold model to match the medal he hopes to earn at the 2008 Games.
The soldiers, including track and field athletes, world-class boxers, marksmen and more, are the latest in a storied line of 644 Army athletes who have participated in the Games since 1948.
"We coach elite-level athletes who already have a high level of discipline from their Army experience." said Capt. Dominic Black, commander of the Army's World Class Athlete Program. "By providing these athletes with the best training, coaching, equipment and overall support, the Army is preparing them for victory at the Olympics and beyond."
Other soldier-athletes representing the United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics are:
-- Sgt. 1st Class Jason Parker -- air rifle and three-position rifle;
-- Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Szarenski -- men's 50-meter free pistol;
-- Pfc. Vincent Hancock -- skeet;
-- Spc. Jeffrey Holguin -- double trap;
-- Spc. Walton Glenn Eller III -- double trap; and
-- U.S. Military Academy Cadet Stephen Scherer -- air rifle.
The Army's World Class Athlete Program is composed of soldier-athletes in a variety of sports who demonstrate the potential to qualify for the U.S. Olympic Team. Soldier-athletes who apply to the program must have recently attained a high national ranking or placed high at a major national or international event. Soldiers in the WCAP have earned 131 Olympic medals since 1948.
The Army Marksmanship Unit, which is sending six shooters to Beijing, has gained worldwide respect by winning hundreds of individual and team national shooting titles, more than 40 world championships and 21 Olympic medals. Since the AMU was established in 1956, its shooters have won more than half of all medals earned by U.S. shooters.
(From a U.S. Army news release.)
America Supports You: Unusual Fundraiser Helps Group Benefit Troops
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - "The Gigantic Garage Sale" at the South Florida Fairgrounds in Palm Beach County July 26 proved to be not only fun for shoppers, but also was lucrative for "Forgotten Soldier Outreach," a care package organization. "The United Way of Palm Beach County and the South Florida Fair ... do this once a year," said Sue Beard, Forgotten Soldier Outreach's Palm Beach County manager. "It was great! We got $500 for a day's work."
The group began soliciting donations for the sale earlier this month. Contributions included jewelry, lamps, candles, collectibles and "re-gift" items, which Beard described as the gift sets typically available for major holidays.
Only clothing, furniture and stuffed animals were turned down. Those items would have taken up too much room in the group's allotted space, she said.
As it turned out, jewelry, the gift sets and toys and games were the three top-selling categories.
The $500 raised surpassed the organization's expectations for its first-time participation in the garage sale. "I thought maybe $300," Beard said.
The funds raised will cover postage to ship packages to servicemembers on a monthly basis.
"During the summer months, funds tend to dwindle, but our cause and mission continues to grow," said Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar, Forgotten Soldier Outreach's founder and executive director, in a statement. "This [helped] us raise much-needed funds in order for FSO to be able to continue our mission this summer by sending a little bit of home to our soldiers overseas to assure they're not forgotten."
In addition to the money raised through the garage sale, Forgotten Soldier Outreach was the beneficiary of Florida Power & Light's third annual collection drive and fundraiser to benefit the organization.
Throughout June, the company's employees donated CDs, DVDs and calling cards for troops. An annual "Jeans Day," which allowed employees to wear jeans to work for a $5 donation, raised $5,300 for the organization.
"This fundraiser could not [have] come at a better time. ... Unfortunately, funds have been at a shortfall," Zelnar said. "It's so wonderful to see a local corporation, such as Florida Power & Light and their employees, continue to show their support of our troops overseas."
Forgotten Soldier Outreach is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
American Forces Press Service
July 30, 2008 - "The Gigantic Garage Sale" at the South Florida Fairgrounds in Palm Beach County July 26 proved to be not only fun for shoppers, but also was lucrative for "Forgotten Soldier Outreach," a care package organization. "The United Way of Palm Beach County and the South Florida Fair ... do this once a year," said Sue Beard, Forgotten Soldier Outreach's Palm Beach County manager. "It was great! We got $500 for a day's work."
The group began soliciting donations for the sale earlier this month. Contributions included jewelry, lamps, candles, collectibles and "re-gift" items, which Beard described as the gift sets typically available for major holidays.
Only clothing, furniture and stuffed animals were turned down. Those items would have taken up too much room in the group's allotted space, she said.
As it turned out, jewelry, the gift sets and toys and games were the three top-selling categories.
The $500 raised surpassed the organization's expectations for its first-time participation in the garage sale. "I thought maybe $300," Beard said.
The funds raised will cover postage to ship packages to servicemembers on a monthly basis.
"During the summer months, funds tend to dwindle, but our cause and mission continues to grow," said Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar, Forgotten Soldier Outreach's founder and executive director, in a statement. "This [helped] us raise much-needed funds in order for FSO to be able to continue our mission this summer by sending a little bit of home to our soldiers overseas to assure they're not forgotten."
In addition to the money raised through the garage sale, Forgotten Soldier Outreach was the beneficiary of Florida Power & Light's third annual collection drive and fundraiser to benefit the organization.
Throughout June, the company's employees donated CDs, DVDs and calling cards for troops. An annual "Jeans Day," which allowed employees to wear jeans to work for a $5 donation, raised $5,300 for the organization.
"This fundraiser could not [have] come at a better time. ... Unfortunately, funds have been at a shortfall," Zelnar said. "It's so wonderful to see a local corporation, such as Florida Power & Light and their employees, continue to show their support of our troops overseas."
Forgotten Soldier Outreach is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
MILITARY CONTRACTS July 30, 2008
Navy
Hensel Phelps Construction Co., Chantilly, Va., is being awarded a $312,495,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design/build to collocated Military Department (MILDEP) Investigative Agencies, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Va. The contract value includes contract line item 000l, base bid, three chillers enhancement, heater exchange enhancement, upgraded lobby/finish enhancement, and upgrade executive spaces enhancement. The contract is incrementally funded with the first increment of $134,066,765 being allocated at the time of award. The scope of the contract includes complete design and construction of the Collocated MILDEP Investigative Agencies, authorized under the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) initiatives. This project involves the construction of a multi-story facility/facilities for the BRAC directed collocation of Military Department Investigative Agencies (MDIA) composed of the Counterintelligence Field Activity (CIFA), Headquarters Naval Criminal Investigative Services (NCIS), Headquarters Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), Headquarters Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID) and the Defense Security Service (DSS). It also includes the construction of a collocated "School House" for the Joint Counterintellegence Training Academy (JCITA) and the DSS and off-site development of utilities, bridge and roadway improvements. The work will be performed at the Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Va., and is expected to be complete by June 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online and Federal Business Opportunities websites, where five proposals were received for Phase I. Three proposals were submitted under Phase II and a negotiation period followed with conclusion by submission of a final proposal. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, Washington, DC, is the contracting activity, contract number (N40080-08-C-0020).
McDonnell Douglas Corp., DBA the Boeing Company, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $153,044,318 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for an Assault Breaching System (ABS) Countermine System (CMS). The CMS will use a precision guided, stand-off munition capable of delivery by Air Force (AF) bombers and Navy (USN) tactical aircraft (TACAIR). The CMS shall attack surface laid and buried mines through a controlled dispense of countermine munitions. These munitions will be designed to neutralize mines and either consume the explosive fill or to cause a detonation of the mine. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo. (40 percent); Orlando, Fla. (31 percent); Niceville, Fla. (16 percent); and Mesa, Ariz. (13 percent), and work is expected to be completed by September 2013. The contract will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division website, with multiple proposals solicited and one offer received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, Panama City, Fla. is the contracting activity (N61331-08-C-0032).
DG21 LLC, Dallas, Texas, is being awarded an estimated $28,365,264 modification P00034 under previously awarded firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract with award fee provisions (N62742-06-D-4501) to exercise the second option period for Base Operating Support Services at the U.S. Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia in support of its mission in the British Indian Ocean Territory. The work to be performed provides for all management, labor, administration, supervision, materials, supplies, and equipment. After exercise of this modification, the total cumulative contract amount will be $467,728,084. Work will be performed at the U.S. Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, and is expected to be completed July 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured with 78 offers solicited, three proposals received, and award made to DG21 on 06 July 2006. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity.
Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., is being awarded an $11,750,505 modification to delivery order #0056 under their existing previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (M67854-04-D-5016) for the installation of reducible height armor kits and survivability upgrade kits on Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) variants. Work will be performed in Oshkosh, Wis. (70 percent); Jacksonville, N.C. (22 percent); and Oceanside, Calif. (8 percent), and work for this delivery order is expected to be completed by June 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps System Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Tetra Tech EC, Inc. (company's name changed from Tetra Tech Foster Wheeler, Inc.), San Diego, Calif. is being awarded $7,495,141 for modification 42 to Task Order #0072 under a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N68711-98-D-5713) for base-wide radiological surveys and remediation at Hunters Point Shipyard. Work will be performed in San Francisco, Calif., and is expected to be completed June 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Northrop Grumman Technical Services Sector, Herndon, Va., is being awarded a $6,322,098 cost-plus-fixed-fee, firm-fixed-price contract for approximately 89,886 hours of engineering and logistics services in support of E-2C, C-2A test and E-2D System Design and Development (SDD) aircraft located at the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ZERO (VX-20), Patuxent River, Md. Services to be provided include modification and preparation of the aircraft for test operations, correct safety of flight discrepancies, quality control inspections, engineering investigations, and logistics and parts support. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., and is expected to be completed in July 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-08-C-0065).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Hess Corp., Woodbridge, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $69,992,650 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for direct supply natural gas. Other locations of performance are N.Y., Mass., Pa., and N.H. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Federal civilian Agencies. There were originally 166 proposals solicited with 37 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 30, 2010. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-08-D-7508).
Army
JCB Inc., Pooler, Ga., was awarded on Jul. 28, a $6,151,111 contract for definitizing a current UCA for the procurement of 50 Add-on-Armor B-Kits for High Mobility Engineer Excavator vehicles, and the associated integrated logistics support. Work will be performed in Pooler, Ga., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 23, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jan. 4, 2008. U.S. Army TACOM LCMC, Warren, MI, Deployment Acquisition Group, is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-D-0414).
BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, Inc, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $22,782,322 cost plus award fee, contract for logistical support and services consisting of the three major functional areas of maintenance, transportation and supply on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii. Work will be performed in Schofield Barracks, East Range, Fort Shafter, Wheeler Army Airfield, Island of Oahu; and Pohakuloa Training Area, Island of Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2017. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 54 bids solicited on Jun. 16, 2006, and 7 bids were received. Regional Contracting Office, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (W912CN-08-C-0085).
BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, Inc, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded on July 28, 2008, a $22,782,322 cost plus award fee, contract for logistical support and services consisting of the three major functional areas of maintenance, transportation and supply on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii. Work will be performed in Schofield Barracks, East Range, Fort Shafter, Wheeler Army Airfield, Island of Oahu; and Pohakuloa Training Area, Island of Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2017. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 54 bids solicited on Jun. 16, 2006, and seven bids were received. Regional Contracting Office, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (W912CN-08-C-0085).
Air Force
The Air Force is exercising an option by modifying a firm fixed price contract for $34,074,850 with Raytheon Missile Systems of Tucson, Ariz. This action will provide for MALD Low Rate Initial Production units (154 assets), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Trainer (5 assets), Decoy Trainers (41 assets), and Warranty for the LRIP units. At this time all funds have been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (F08635-03-C-0002 P00079).
The Air Force is modifying a cost plus award fee contract for $7.5 million with Northrop Grumman Mission Systems/Electromagnetic Systems Laboratory of San Jose, Calif. The purpose of this action is to award the ASIP Objective Performance Incentive. At this time all funds have been obligated. USAF/AFMC, Reconnaissance Systems Wing, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-03-C-4318 Mod Nr: P00060).
Hensel Phelps Construction Co., Chantilly, Va., is being awarded a $312,495,000 firm-fixed-price contract for design/build to collocated Military Department (MILDEP) Investigative Agencies, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Va. The contract value includes contract line item 000l, base bid, three chillers enhancement, heater exchange enhancement, upgraded lobby/finish enhancement, and upgrade executive spaces enhancement. The contract is incrementally funded with the first increment of $134,066,765 being allocated at the time of award. The scope of the contract includes complete design and construction of the Collocated MILDEP Investigative Agencies, authorized under the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) initiatives. This project involves the construction of a multi-story facility/facilities for the BRAC directed collocation of Military Department Investigative Agencies (MDIA) composed of the Counterintelligence Field Activity (CIFA), Headquarters Naval Criminal Investigative Services (NCIS), Headquarters Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), Headquarters Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID) and the Defense Security Service (DSS). It also includes the construction of a collocated "School House" for the Joint Counterintellegence Training Academy (JCITA) and the DSS and off-site development of utilities, bridge and roadway improvements. The work will be performed at the Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Va., and is expected to be complete by June 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online and Federal Business Opportunities websites, where five proposals were received for Phase I. Three proposals were submitted under Phase II and a negotiation period followed with conclusion by submission of a final proposal. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington, Washington, DC, is the contracting activity, contract number (N40080-08-C-0020).
McDonnell Douglas Corp., DBA the Boeing Company, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $153,044,318 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract for an Assault Breaching System (ABS) Countermine System (CMS). The CMS will use a precision guided, stand-off munition capable of delivery by Air Force (AF) bombers and Navy (USN) tactical aircraft (TACAIR). The CMS shall attack surface laid and buried mines through a controlled dispense of countermine munitions. These munitions will be designed to neutralize mines and either consume the explosive fill or to cause a detonation of the mine. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo. (40 percent); Orlando, Fla. (31 percent); Niceville, Fla. (16 percent); and Mesa, Ariz. (13 percent), and work is expected to be completed by September 2013. The contract will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division website, with multiple proposals solicited and one offer received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, Panama City, Fla. is the contracting activity (N61331-08-C-0032).
DG21 LLC, Dallas, Texas, is being awarded an estimated $28,365,264 modification P00034 under previously awarded firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity contract with award fee provisions (N62742-06-D-4501) to exercise the second option period for Base Operating Support Services at the U.S. Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia in support of its mission in the British Indian Ocean Territory. The work to be performed provides for all management, labor, administration, supervision, materials, supplies, and equipment. After exercise of this modification, the total cumulative contract amount will be $467,728,084. Work will be performed at the U.S. Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, and is expected to be completed July 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The basic contract was competitively procured with 78 offers solicited, three proposals received, and award made to DG21 on 06 July 2006. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity.
Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., is being awarded an $11,750,505 modification to delivery order #0056 under their existing previously awarded indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (M67854-04-D-5016) for the installation of reducible height armor kits and survivability upgrade kits on Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) variants. Work will be performed in Oshkosh, Wis. (70 percent); Jacksonville, N.C. (22 percent); and Oceanside, Calif. (8 percent), and work for this delivery order is expected to be completed by June 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps System Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Tetra Tech EC, Inc. (company's name changed from Tetra Tech Foster Wheeler, Inc.), San Diego, Calif. is being awarded $7,495,141 for modification 42 to Task Order #0072 under a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N68711-98-D-5713) for base-wide radiological surveys and remediation at Hunters Point Shipyard. Work will be performed in San Francisco, Calif., and is expected to be completed June 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Northrop Grumman Technical Services Sector, Herndon, Va., is being awarded a $6,322,098 cost-plus-fixed-fee, firm-fixed-price contract for approximately 89,886 hours of engineering and logistics services in support of E-2C, C-2A test and E-2D System Design and Development (SDD) aircraft located at the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TWO ZERO (VX-20), Patuxent River, Md. Services to be provided include modification and preparation of the aircraft for test operations, correct safety of flight discrepancies, quality control inspections, engineering investigations, and logistics and parts support. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md., and is expected to be completed in July 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-08-C-0065).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Hess Corp., Woodbridge, N.J., is being awarded a maximum $69,992,650 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for direct supply natural gas. Other locations of performance are N.Y., Mass., Pa., and N.H. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Federal civilian Agencies. There were originally 166 proposals solicited with 37 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 30, 2010. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-08-D-7508).
Army
JCB Inc., Pooler, Ga., was awarded on Jul. 28, a $6,151,111 contract for definitizing a current UCA for the procurement of 50 Add-on-Armor B-Kits for High Mobility Engineer Excavator vehicles, and the associated integrated logistics support. Work will be performed in Pooler, Ga., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 23, 2008. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jan. 4, 2008. U.S. Army TACOM LCMC, Warren, MI, Deployment Acquisition Group, is the contracting activity (W56HZV-05-D-0414).
BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, Inc, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $22,782,322 cost plus award fee, contract for logistical support and services consisting of the three major functional areas of maintenance, transportation and supply on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii. Work will be performed in Schofield Barracks, East Range, Fort Shafter, Wheeler Army Airfield, Island of Oahu; and Pohakuloa Training Area, Island of Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2017. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 54 bids solicited on Jun. 16, 2006, and 7 bids were received. Regional Contracting Office, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (W912CN-08-C-0085).
BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, Inc, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., was awarded on July 28, 2008, a $22,782,322 cost plus award fee, contract for logistical support and services consisting of the three major functional areas of maintenance, transportation and supply on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii. Work will be performed in Schofield Barracks, East Range, Fort Shafter, Wheeler Army Airfield, Island of Oahu; and Pohakuloa Training Area, Island of Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 31, 2017. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were 54 bids solicited on Jun. 16, 2006, and seven bids were received. Regional Contracting Office, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (W912CN-08-C-0085).
Air Force
The Air Force is exercising an option by modifying a firm fixed price contract for $34,074,850 with Raytheon Missile Systems of Tucson, Ariz. This action will provide for MALD Low Rate Initial Production units (154 assets), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Trainer (5 assets), Decoy Trainers (41 assets), and Warranty for the LRIP units. At this time all funds have been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (F08635-03-C-0002 P00079).
The Air Force is modifying a cost plus award fee contract for $7.5 million with Northrop Grumman Mission Systems/Electromagnetic Systems Laboratory of San Jose, Calif. The purpose of this action is to award the ASIP Objective Performance Incentive. At this time all funds have been obligated. USAF/AFMC, Reconnaissance Systems Wing, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-03-C-4318 Mod Nr: P00060).
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Reports of Electrical Hazards Overblown, Pentagon Spokesman Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Reports of electrical hazards caused by negligence in Iraq are overblown, a senior Defense Department spokesman said here today. Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell spoke at a news conference on the eve of testimony before the House Government Reform Committee. Acting DoD Inspector General Gordon S. Heddell is one of four Pentagon officials expected to testify, according to House officials.
The hearing will examine allegations that KBR, a large defense contractor responsible for building and maintaining much of the U.S. infrastructure in Iraq, and the Army have caused deaths among American servicemembers in Iraq through negligence.
"We certainly understand and appreciate Congress's concern for the well-being of servicemembers and other U.S. personnel deployed in Iraq, but there seems to be a misperception out there that our facilities in that theater are replete with electrical hazards that have caused hundreds of fires and multiple fatalities," the press secretary said.
"What's more, some seem to believe that this department and one of the Army's lead logistical support contractors are so negligent or callous that we have failed to address these dangers," he continued.
Morrell said the characterization is "flat-out wrong."
"We care far too much about our men and women in uniform, as evidenced by the tens of billions of dollars we spend on force protection equipment, to knowingly allow them to live or work in an unsafe environment," Morrell said. "Our civilian and military leadership would simply not tolerate that."
He acknowledged that 16 servicemembers have been killed in electrical accidents since March 2003. "We grieve for each and every one of them," he said. "But it is wrong to suggest that all these deaths were the result of shoddy workmanship by defense contractors or lack of oversight by the Pentagon."
Of the 16, eight deaths occurred outside military bases and are attributable to servicemembers accidentally making contact with live power lines. This is a constant risk in the cities and villages of Iraq, where people hook up their homes to the power grid with any kind of wire possible -- including barbed wire. Overhead wires also often are lower than 10 feet off the ground.
"Three more troops were killed while working with electrical generators that were not properly grounded," Morrell said. Another was electrocuted in a pool that once belonged to deposed dictator Saddam Hussein.
"The remaining four deaths do seem to stem from wiring problems, but only one of them involves work done by KBR, although the inspector general is still looking into all these incidents," Morrell said.
A total of 10 U.S. troops have been electrocuted outside Iraq and Afghanistan since 2002, he noted.
Every death is a tragedy, Morrell said, adding that he is not attempting to diminish them. "But they should be viewed in proper context," he said.
DoD has several investigations under way into this issue. In the meantime, "every facility our troops operate out of in Iraq is undergoing a safety inspection," he said. "That's nearly 5,000 buildings in all."
U.S. officials in Iraq have created a uniform electrical code for military facilities in the country.
Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, has appointed Army Maj. Gen. Timothy P. McHale as his chief safety officer. McHale also serves as the command's director of personnel, logistics and resources.
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Reports of electrical hazards caused by negligence in Iraq are overblown, a senior Defense Department spokesman said here today. Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell spoke at a news conference on the eve of testimony before the House Government Reform Committee. Acting DoD Inspector General Gordon S. Heddell is one of four Pentagon officials expected to testify, according to House officials.
The hearing will examine allegations that KBR, a large defense contractor responsible for building and maintaining much of the U.S. infrastructure in Iraq, and the Army have caused deaths among American servicemembers in Iraq through negligence.
"We certainly understand and appreciate Congress's concern for the well-being of servicemembers and other U.S. personnel deployed in Iraq, but there seems to be a misperception out there that our facilities in that theater are replete with electrical hazards that have caused hundreds of fires and multiple fatalities," the press secretary said.
"What's more, some seem to believe that this department and one of the Army's lead logistical support contractors are so negligent or callous that we have failed to address these dangers," he continued.
Morrell said the characterization is "flat-out wrong."
"We care far too much about our men and women in uniform, as evidenced by the tens of billions of dollars we spend on force protection equipment, to knowingly allow them to live or work in an unsafe environment," Morrell said. "Our civilian and military leadership would simply not tolerate that."
He acknowledged that 16 servicemembers have been killed in electrical accidents since March 2003. "We grieve for each and every one of them," he said. "But it is wrong to suggest that all these deaths were the result of shoddy workmanship by defense contractors or lack of oversight by the Pentagon."
Of the 16, eight deaths occurred outside military bases and are attributable to servicemembers accidentally making contact with live power lines. This is a constant risk in the cities and villages of Iraq, where people hook up their homes to the power grid with any kind of wire possible -- including barbed wire. Overhead wires also often are lower than 10 feet off the ground.
"Three more troops were killed while working with electrical generators that were not properly grounded," Morrell said. Another was electrocuted in a pool that once belonged to deposed dictator Saddam Hussein.
"The remaining four deaths do seem to stem from wiring problems, but only one of them involves work done by KBR, although the inspector general is still looking into all these incidents," Morrell said.
A total of 10 U.S. troops have been electrocuted outside Iraq and Afghanistan since 2002, he noted.
Every death is a tragedy, Morrell said, adding that he is not attempting to diminish them. "But they should be viewed in proper context," he said.
DoD has several investigations under way into this issue. In the meantime, "every facility our troops operate out of in Iraq is undergoing a safety inspection," he said. "That's nearly 5,000 buildings in all."
U.S. officials in Iraq have created a uniform electrical code for military facilities in the country.
Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, has appointed Army Maj. Gen. Timothy P. McHale as his chief safety officer. McHale also serves as the command's director of personnel, logistics and resources.
Older Vets Offer Encouragement, Example for Newly Wounded Troops
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Recently wounded combat troops are here getting advice and encouragement from those who understand best what they're up against: other disabled veterans who have learned to live with their disabilities. Veterans of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, including five current patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, are among about 500 participants in the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games.
The event is cosponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, and is open to all veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations and other conditions that impair mobility.
For Mitch Bocik, an Army reservist wounded when an improvised explosive device hit his vehicle just south of Baghdad in May 2006, the games offer a chance to recapture his love of competition. By yesterday afternoon, he'd already collected a silver medal in slalom and a bronze in nine-ball pool, and he had his sights on a silver or gold in basketball.
But beyond the thrill of victory, Bocik said, the biggest takeaway from the games is the chance to get motivated by what other disabled veterans have accomplished. "That's the main thing," he said. "It's helped me realize that I can pretty much do everything I used to do. I just do it differently."
Army Spc. Darrell Lawrence was back from his deployment for just over five months when a motorcycle accident at Fort Campbell, Ky., put him in a wheelchair. Two years later, he's medically retired and back for his second summer games, where he's already won two gold medals, in air rifles and slalom.
Lawrence called winning sports competitions "a big boost to morale," but agreed that getting to meet and learn from with other disabled veterans is the event's biggest draw.
"I've seen so much and learned so much talking to these guys," he said. "You can get a wealth of knowledge as they show you things that you thought weren't possible before."
Like Lawrence, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Felder was injured in a motorcycle accident, losing his left leg after returning from a Middle East deployment in 2006. Still assigned to the patient squadron at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., he has received approval to remain in the Air Force as an F-15 crew chief.
Felder said he loves the competition of the games, which he calls "downright fun," but said he's found inspiration here, too.
"It's great being around people in similar situations and be able to share stories and network," he said. "Everybody wants to win. But being around here and getting to learn from each other is inspirational."
Among those offering that inspiration is Charles Allen, who was injured during a 1993 training accident at Fort Hood, Texas. Allen, now 36, called the games an opportunity to share what he's gained during the past 15 years. "The older guys taught me when I was new," he said. "Now it's time for me to help steer someone else in the right direction."
Like many of the newly wounded troops, Allen said, he went through tough times as he adjusted to the physical and mental challenges of being confined to a wheelchair. He credits his introduction to wheelchair basketball as a big step in his rehabilitation.
"Life is not over because you are injured," he said. "It might not be the life you had planned, but it can also be a new beginning, like being reborn."
Kevin Poindexter, a Navy petty officer 3rd class who was medically retired after being shot in the back during a carjacking attempt, said the wheelchair games offer more than an opportunity to chalk up medals, although he already has two and hopes for a third today.
Even more valuable, he said, is the opportunity to meet and encourage veterans with new injuries. "I like to be able to give back what I've learned during the past 13 years," said Poindexter, who now lives in Tampa, Fla. "If we can get these guys out here and show them what people just like them are able to do, it can help them a lot."
Tourgee Bryant, a former Marine corporal paralyzed 19 years ago when he fell asleep at the wheel and his car hit a tree, said he's excited to be able to help motivate newly disabled veterans. "We've got to let them know that there are still opportunities for them to do things. They just have to go out there and try," he said.
As he sat in his chair watching a high-action basketball playoff, Bryant found himself cheering wildly for his fellow veterans, especially the younger ones.
"You can't help but yell for them," he said. "That's what the spirit of the games is all about."
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Recently wounded combat troops are here getting advice and encouragement from those who understand best what they're up against: other disabled veterans who have learned to live with their disabilities. Veterans of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, including five current patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, are among about 500 participants in the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games.
The event is cosponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, and is open to all veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations and other conditions that impair mobility.
For Mitch Bocik, an Army reservist wounded when an improvised explosive device hit his vehicle just south of Baghdad in May 2006, the games offer a chance to recapture his love of competition. By yesterday afternoon, he'd already collected a silver medal in slalom and a bronze in nine-ball pool, and he had his sights on a silver or gold in basketball.
But beyond the thrill of victory, Bocik said, the biggest takeaway from the games is the chance to get motivated by what other disabled veterans have accomplished. "That's the main thing," he said. "It's helped me realize that I can pretty much do everything I used to do. I just do it differently."
Army Spc. Darrell Lawrence was back from his deployment for just over five months when a motorcycle accident at Fort Campbell, Ky., put him in a wheelchair. Two years later, he's medically retired and back for his second summer games, where he's already won two gold medals, in air rifles and slalom.
Lawrence called winning sports competitions "a big boost to morale," but agreed that getting to meet and learn from with other disabled veterans is the event's biggest draw.
"I've seen so much and learned so much talking to these guys," he said. "You can get a wealth of knowledge as they show you things that you thought weren't possible before."
Like Lawrence, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Felder was injured in a motorcycle accident, losing his left leg after returning from a Middle East deployment in 2006. Still assigned to the patient squadron at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., he has received approval to remain in the Air Force as an F-15 crew chief.
Felder said he loves the competition of the games, which he calls "downright fun," but said he's found inspiration here, too.
"It's great being around people in similar situations and be able to share stories and network," he said. "Everybody wants to win. But being around here and getting to learn from each other is inspirational."
Among those offering that inspiration is Charles Allen, who was injured during a 1993 training accident at Fort Hood, Texas. Allen, now 36, called the games an opportunity to share what he's gained during the past 15 years. "The older guys taught me when I was new," he said. "Now it's time for me to help steer someone else in the right direction."
Like many of the newly wounded troops, Allen said, he went through tough times as he adjusted to the physical and mental challenges of being confined to a wheelchair. He credits his introduction to wheelchair basketball as a big step in his rehabilitation.
"Life is not over because you are injured," he said. "It might not be the life you had planned, but it can also be a new beginning, like being reborn."
Kevin Poindexter, a Navy petty officer 3rd class who was medically retired after being shot in the back during a carjacking attempt, said the wheelchair games offer more than an opportunity to chalk up medals, although he already has two and hopes for a third today.
Even more valuable, he said, is the opportunity to meet and encourage veterans with new injuries. "I like to be able to give back what I've learned during the past 13 years," said Poindexter, who now lives in Tampa, Fla. "If we can get these guys out here and show them what people just like them are able to do, it can help them a lot."
Tourgee Bryant, a former Marine corporal paralyzed 19 years ago when he fell asleep at the wheel and his car hit a tree, said he's excited to be able to help motivate newly disabled veterans. "We've got to let them know that there are still opportunities for them to do things. They just have to go out there and try," he said.
As he sat in his chair watching a high-action basketball playoff, Bryant found himself cheering wildly for his fellow veterans, especially the younger ones.
"You can't help but yell for them," he said. "That's what the spirit of the games is all about."
America Supports You: Songwriting Contest for GIs Yields 18 Winners
By Sharon Foster
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - A Marine in Fallujah pens a song about standing watch. A sailor stationed in Hawaii scribbles a lullaby for his son while in the Iraqi desert. A soldier raps into a tape recorder to entertain his unit. Songwriters like these servicemembers were among the many who submitted their original songs to this year's "Songs From the Soul of Service" songwriting contest. Now in its third year, the amateur songwriting contest is a collaborative effort between the Dallas Songwriter Association and the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights corporate and grassroots support for U.S. servicemembers and their families.
Judges select winners and runners-up in each of 18 categories, which include Afghanistan and Iraq, country, hip-hop, inspirational, instrumental and pop/rock. They then select three of the category winners for grand prizes.
The top three songs for 2008 are:
-- First Place: "Ask Me To" by Air Force Capt. Steven Wilson, which took top pop/rock honors;
-- Second Place: "If Tomorrow Were a Dream" by Army National Guard Spc. Greg Pritchard, which was the contest's top country song; and
-- Third Place: "I Can't Wait to Love You" by Jill Charles, wife of Army Staff Sgt. Robert Charles, the top song in the inspirational category.
"Every military conflict from the American Revolution to the Civil War to the first Gulf War has spawned music that reflected the moods, emotions and sentiments of the nation's fighting men and women," said William Brown, Dallas Songwriter Association board member and committee chairman for Songs From the Soul of Service.
"Songs From the Soul of Service serves to capture some of this history," he continued, "while providing recognition to talented songwriters and diversion and entertainment to participants and nonparticipants alike."
Wilson, who earned the top grand prize, said his own life provides his songwriting inspiration.
"Over the years, writing music has been so autobiographical," he said. "It's so honest and personal. I think this contest truly personalizes the image of the military. It shows civilians that as 'the troops' we represent so much more than uniforms and duty. This contest gives us the chance to showcase what might otherwise remain silent or be forgotten."
The contest is open exclusively to amateur songwriters currently serving in the U.S. military and those currently inactive due to injury or disability suffered after the start of the war in Afghanistan. Eligible participants may submit songs on behalf of an immediate family member, a fallen comrade or a fallen comrade's immediate family member.
Brown said he thinks the contest is an excellent outlet for servicemembers.
"These songs provided respite, unit bonding and an expressive outlet during trying times," he explained. "In some cases, these songs will transcend their times and become permanent fixtures in the nation's patriotic songbook."
Wilson, along with the other winners of each category, will be included on a compilation CD provided to radio and music industry professionals, as well as to the contest participants. The first-place grand prize includes a weekend stay at the Gaylord Texan Hotel.
Public events to showcase the winning songs and songwriters are in the planning stages. The events will culminate with a concert at the end of the year, headlined by well-known recording artists.
A complete list of the winners and runners-up is available at www.songssoulservice.org.
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - A Marine in Fallujah pens a song about standing watch. A sailor stationed in Hawaii scribbles a lullaby for his son while in the Iraqi desert. A soldier raps into a tape recorder to entertain his unit. Songwriters like these servicemembers were among the many who submitted their original songs to this year's "Songs From the Soul of Service" songwriting contest. Now in its third year, the amateur songwriting contest is a collaborative effort between the Dallas Songwriter Association and the Defense Department's America Supports You program, which highlights corporate and grassroots support for U.S. servicemembers and their families.
Judges select winners and runners-up in each of 18 categories, which include Afghanistan and Iraq, country, hip-hop, inspirational, instrumental and pop/rock. They then select three of the category winners for grand prizes.
The top three songs for 2008 are:
-- First Place: "Ask Me To" by Air Force Capt. Steven Wilson, which took top pop/rock honors;
-- Second Place: "If Tomorrow Were a Dream" by Army National Guard Spc. Greg Pritchard, which was the contest's top country song; and
-- Third Place: "I Can't Wait to Love You" by Jill Charles, wife of Army Staff Sgt. Robert Charles, the top song in the inspirational category.
"Every military conflict from the American Revolution to the Civil War to the first Gulf War has spawned music that reflected the moods, emotions and sentiments of the nation's fighting men and women," said William Brown, Dallas Songwriter Association board member and committee chairman for Songs From the Soul of Service.
"Songs From the Soul of Service serves to capture some of this history," he continued, "while providing recognition to talented songwriters and diversion and entertainment to participants and nonparticipants alike."
Wilson, who earned the top grand prize, said his own life provides his songwriting inspiration.
"Over the years, writing music has been so autobiographical," he said. "It's so honest and personal. I think this contest truly personalizes the image of the military. It shows civilians that as 'the troops' we represent so much more than uniforms and duty. This contest gives us the chance to showcase what might otherwise remain silent or be forgotten."
The contest is open exclusively to amateur songwriters currently serving in the U.S. military and those currently inactive due to injury or disability suffered after the start of the war in Afghanistan. Eligible participants may submit songs on behalf of an immediate family member, a fallen comrade or a fallen comrade's immediate family member.
Brown said he thinks the contest is an excellent outlet for servicemembers.
"These songs provided respite, unit bonding and an expressive outlet during trying times," he explained. "In some cases, these songs will transcend their times and become permanent fixtures in the nation's patriotic songbook."
Wilson, along with the other winners of each category, will be included on a compilation CD provided to radio and music industry professionals, as well as to the contest participants. The first-place grand prize includes a weekend stay at the Gaylord Texan Hotel.
Public events to showcase the winning songs and songwriters are in the planning stages. The events will culminate with a concert at the end of the year, headlined by well-known recording artists.
A complete list of the winners and runners-up is available at www.songssoulservice.org.
California Guard Rescues Nation's Largest Ponderosa Pine
By Air Force Lt. Col. Lloyd J. Goodrow
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - California National Guard's Task Force Pick came to the rescue when wildfires in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest here threatened the nation's tallest Ponderosa pine tree. Ponderosa pines are plentiful in the forests of the western United States and are among the most widely distributed pines in North America. They have an average height of 180 feet, and they usually can live for 300 to 600 years.
When the team of about 20 Guard firefighters reached the pine's location, a few miles north of the Forest Glen campsite, they knew this tree was something special.
Standing at 240.5 feet high -- almost 24 stories -- with a trunk nearly eight feet thick and estimated at an age of 700 years, this tree had to be saved.
The significance of the tree was verified by the U.S Forest Service team member as being documented by American Forests' National Register of Big Trees.
"It was a lot of hard work and heart that went into keeping this incredible tree safe," said Army Spc. Diana Diaz. "This majestic tree has witnessed a lot of history and stands as a symbol for survival. There have been wildfires through these forests before, ... and this tree still stands. We're working hard to make sure that she makes it through this fire, too."
That task wasn't easy. With low-hanging branches, the tree was threatened by sparks and embers from nearby fires that could easily ignite the tree if the wind shifted just right.
The team of Guardsmen spent hours trimming the low-hanging threats and cleared a wide area around the tree that would eliminate any fuel source on the ground.
Two Guard members spent the entire day cutting down neighboring trees, and the rest of the team stacked piles of wood that would burn a safe distance from the tree. They also set up a water sprinkler system that will keep the cleared area moist.
"Rescuing a tree that some might consider a national treasure has been one of the most unusual missions I've ever been on," said Army Spc. David Walker. "Being here in the Shasta-Trinity Forest with the other members of my unit has been a rough, but rewarding, mission. I'm proud to be here, and I'm very proud of my fellow soldiers who are serving here with me."
(Air Force Lt. Col. Lloyd J. Goodrow serves with the Vermont National Guard.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - California National Guard's Task Force Pick came to the rescue when wildfires in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest here threatened the nation's tallest Ponderosa pine tree. Ponderosa pines are plentiful in the forests of the western United States and are among the most widely distributed pines in North America. They have an average height of 180 feet, and they usually can live for 300 to 600 years.
When the team of about 20 Guard firefighters reached the pine's location, a few miles north of the Forest Glen campsite, they knew this tree was something special.
Standing at 240.5 feet high -- almost 24 stories -- with a trunk nearly eight feet thick and estimated at an age of 700 years, this tree had to be saved.
The significance of the tree was verified by the U.S Forest Service team member as being documented by American Forests' National Register of Big Trees.
"It was a lot of hard work and heart that went into keeping this incredible tree safe," said Army Spc. Diana Diaz. "This majestic tree has witnessed a lot of history and stands as a symbol for survival. There have been wildfires through these forests before, ... and this tree still stands. We're working hard to make sure that she makes it through this fire, too."
That task wasn't easy. With low-hanging branches, the tree was threatened by sparks and embers from nearby fires that could easily ignite the tree if the wind shifted just right.
The team of Guardsmen spent hours trimming the low-hanging threats and cleared a wide area around the tree that would eliminate any fuel source on the ground.
Two Guard members spent the entire day cutting down neighboring trees, and the rest of the team stacked piles of wood that would burn a safe distance from the tree. They also set up a water sprinkler system that will keep the cleared area moist.
"Rescuing a tree that some might consider a national treasure has been one of the most unusual missions I've ever been on," said Army Spc. David Walker. "Being here in the Shasta-Trinity Forest with the other members of my unit has been a rough, but rewarding, mission. I'm proud to be here, and I'm very proud of my fellow soldiers who are serving here with me."
(Air Force Lt. Col. Lloyd J. Goodrow serves with the Vermont National Guard.)
Face of Defense: Army Service is Family Tradition
By Lindy Kyzer
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Order 9981 on July 26, 1948, he set the end to segregation and the integration of the armed forces into motion. For the Brunson family of Fayetteville, N.C., Truman's order paved the way for Army service to become a family tradition. Six members of the Brunson family -- retired Sgt. Maj. Albert Brunson; his sons, Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson, and Majs. LaHavie Brunson and Tavi Brunson; and his daughters-in law, Lt. Col. Kirsten Brunson and Capt. Miryam Brunson -- have made a career of Army service.
Five members of the family came together last week to speak with online journalists and bloggers as the nation celebrates the 60th anniversary of the integration of the armed forces.
Sergeant Major Brunson, the first in his family to serve in the Army, discussed growing up during the period when segregation was the norm, inside and outside the military. He recalled signs designating separate drinking fountains for whites and blacks.
"And I suppose for me to go back and talk about all of the changes that I have witnessed, we'd probably need a lot more than an hour," he said. The military, he said, "probably was at the forefront" in the movement away from segregation in American society.
Brunson served in Vietnam, and he remained in the Army when his initial tour of duty was complete. His eldest son, Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson, cited the image of his father as the key reason behind his decision to join the Army. Following him, younger brothers Majs. LaHavie Brunson and Tavi Brunson had both a brother and a father to look up to when making their decisions to serve.
"That's what my father brought home, so a lot of the values that you talk about as inculcating from our service really had their earliest roots in the love of our family and the love of this great nation," Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson said. "So I would just like to throw that out there to everybody and let you know that we treat this like a profession. This is our family business.
"The Brunsons have passed on a tradition of service to this nation that it was all we were ever meant to do," he continued. "This is our calling. From the folks we married to the things we do professionally, this is it for us. And so our treatment has always come from really looking at things through the filter of our own experiences in the Army. And it's always been good."
The Brunson family has maintained a high standard throughout its tradition of service. Lt. Col. Kirsten Brunson was recently named as the first African-American woman military circuit court judge, making her the second military judge in the Brunson family with the ability to argue before the Supreme Court. The family has more than 100 years of combined service and has deployed to places including Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Italy, Kuwait, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Macedonia, Belgium, Japan, Guam, Spain and England.
Maj. LaHavie Brunson is deployed to Iraq with 3rd Armored Calvary Regiment, but made time to participate in the call while he was on leave with his family. He cited the quality of the soldiers with whom he serves and said he considers re-enlisting the soldiers serving under him as a very proud moment in his career.
"I don't think there's any degrading in the quality of soldiers that are coming today," he said. "I think the ones that are coming today know what they're up against. ... They show their mettle in the fact that they commit during a time of war, and knowing that there is a potential that they will have to deploy."
For the Brunson family, the commitment to serve continues to be a family tradition, with another niece recently making the decision to enlist in the Army. Retired Sergeant Major Brunson summed up the family commitment to service.
"She's just happy to get into this business, as well," he said.
(Lindy Kyzer works for the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs, Department of the Army.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - Order 9981 on July 26, 1948, he set the end to segregation and the integration of the armed forces into motion. For the Brunson family of Fayetteville, N.C., Truman's order paved the way for Army service to become a family tradition. Six members of the Brunson family -- retired Sgt. Maj. Albert Brunson; his sons, Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson, and Majs. LaHavie Brunson and Tavi Brunson; and his daughters-in law, Lt. Col. Kirsten Brunson and Capt. Miryam Brunson -- have made a career of Army service.
Five members of the family came together last week to speak with online journalists and bloggers as the nation celebrates the 60th anniversary of the integration of the armed forces.
Sergeant Major Brunson, the first in his family to serve in the Army, discussed growing up during the period when segregation was the norm, inside and outside the military. He recalled signs designating separate drinking fountains for whites and blacks.
"And I suppose for me to go back and talk about all of the changes that I have witnessed, we'd probably need a lot more than an hour," he said. The military, he said, "probably was at the forefront" in the movement away from segregation in American society.
Brunson served in Vietnam, and he remained in the Army when his initial tour of duty was complete. His eldest son, Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson, cited the image of his father as the key reason behind his decision to join the Army. Following him, younger brothers Majs. LaHavie Brunson and Tavi Brunson had both a brother and a father to look up to when making their decisions to serve.
"That's what my father brought home, so a lot of the values that you talk about as inculcating from our service really had their earliest roots in the love of our family and the love of this great nation," Lt. Col. Xavier Brunson said. "So I would just like to throw that out there to everybody and let you know that we treat this like a profession. This is our family business.
"The Brunsons have passed on a tradition of service to this nation that it was all we were ever meant to do," he continued. "This is our calling. From the folks we married to the things we do professionally, this is it for us. And so our treatment has always come from really looking at things through the filter of our own experiences in the Army. And it's always been good."
The Brunson family has maintained a high standard throughout its tradition of service. Lt. Col. Kirsten Brunson was recently named as the first African-American woman military circuit court judge, making her the second military judge in the Brunson family with the ability to argue before the Supreme Court. The family has more than 100 years of combined service and has deployed to places including Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Italy, Kuwait, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Macedonia, Belgium, Japan, Guam, Spain and England.
Maj. LaHavie Brunson is deployed to Iraq with 3rd Armored Calvary Regiment, but made time to participate in the call while he was on leave with his family. He cited the quality of the soldiers with whom he serves and said he considers re-enlisting the soldiers serving under him as a very proud moment in his career.
"I don't think there's any degrading in the quality of soldiers that are coming today," he said. "I think the ones that are coming today know what they're up against. ... They show their mettle in the fact that they commit during a time of war, and knowing that there is a potential that they will have to deploy."
For the Brunson family, the commitment to serve continues to be a family tradition, with another niece recently making the decision to enlist in the Army. Retired Sergeant Major Brunson summed up the family commitment to service.
"She's just happy to get into this business, as well," he said.
(Lindy Kyzer works for the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs, Department of the Army.)
Air Force
Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems of Linthicum, Md., is being awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract with cost plus fixed fee (completion) type task order for a shared ceiling of ID/IQ contract of $41 million. This contract action for Sensors Technology Automated Recognition is to develop technologies in a wide-range of application areas that continue to advance the technical improvements to warfighters either directly or indirectly. Examples include CID, data fusion, Ground Moving Target Indication/Airborne Moving. At this time an incremental funding amount on task order 0001 of $2 million has been obligated. AFRL/PKSR, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-08-D-1447, FA8650-08-D-1447-0001).
Raytheon Co., of El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract with cost plus fixed fee (completion) type task order for a shared ceiling of ID/IQ contract of $41 million. This contract action for Sensors Technology Automated Recognition is to develop technologies in a wide-range of application areas that continue to advance the technical improvements to warfighters either directly or indirectly. Examples include CID, data fusion, Ground Moving Target Indication/Airborne Moving Target Indication, Suppression of Enemy Air Defense, countermeasures, Sensor to Decision Maker processing, Targeting, Intelligence and Battle Damage Assessment and ISR. Additional examples of specific technologies that may be encountered on this program include Electro-Optical, Infrared, Radar, Multi-Spectral, Hyperspectral, Laser Technology, and processors but are not limited to these. Improvement in these areas involves technical assessment, hardware and software modifications and development, systems engineering development and integration, Technology and/or Technology application demonstration in the laboratory or in a flight test or as a participant in a larger demonstration or exercise. The performance of the technologies developed will also be evaluated. Task Order 0001 for this contract is "Airborne Data Collection for Combat Identification." The scope of this Task Order is to utilize an airborne CID test bid to collect data with an air-to-air (A/A) CID radar waveform. The effort will involve collection, processing and delivery of both processed and unprocessed airborne target data. At this time $533,000 has been obligated (incremental funding amount on task order 0001). AFRL/PKSR, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-08-D-1446, FA8650-08-D-1446-0001).
Accenture National Security Systems, LLC, of Reston, Va., is being awarded a cost plus fixed fee contract for $22,183,000. These DNCE-M&S services will expand on existing services, develop workflows, and target deployment to warfighter environments where applicable. At this time $2,608,200 has been obligated. 753 ELSG/PK, Electronic Systems Center, Air Force Materiel Command, USAF, Hanscom AFB, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8731-08-C-0003).
FlightSafety Services Corp., of Centennial, Colo., is being awarded a firm fixed price contract for $14,110,453. This contract is for one Weapons System Trainer. This trainer is being procured for training of pilots and crew on the MC-130W aircraft. This trainer is used to support the Aircrew Training and Rehearsal Systems contract. At this time all funds have been obligated. Department of the Air Force, OO-ALC/ACSG/PK, Hill AFB, Utah, is the contracting activity (FA8223-08-C-0008).
The Air Force is modifying a fixed price incentive firm contract with Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems Air Combat Systems, of San Diego, Calif., not to exceed $324,600,000. This contract will provide 2 RQ-4B Block 301 Global Hawk Air Vehicles, 3 RQ-4B Block 40 Air Vehicles with MP-RTIP sensor, one Mission Element, one Launch and Recovery Element, and associated equipment; option for four EISS sensor payloads. At this time $180,351,181 has been obligated. 303 AESG/PK, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-07-C-4015 P00008).
Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., Systems Engineering Solutions, Boulder, Colo., is being awarded a task order against a GSA schedule contract for $13,752,953. This contract action is for Advisory and Assistance Services to include studies, analyses, evaluations, engineering and technical services for the Human Effectiveness Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory. At this time one million has been obligated. 88 CONS/PK, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8601-08-F-0105).
L3 Communications Corp., Communications Systems West, of Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a firm fixed price contract for $10,764,222. This contract is for Manufacture, test and delivery for Ku Data Link Hardware. At this time $10,764,222 has been obligated. 703 AESG/PK (Predator Contracting Group), Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-05-G-3027-0020).
Army
Joint Tech Services Inc., Kailua, Hawaii, was awarded on July 24 a $5,777,507 Firm Fixed Price contract for a six-month extension for Iraqi Defense Network. Work will be performed in Iraq and is expected to be completed by Jan 24, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on July 24, and one bid was received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-08-C-D026).
Lockheed Martin MS2, Syracuse, N.Y., was awarded on Jul. 25, a $84,287,332 Firm Fixed Price, contract for accelerating the production and delivery of the twelve Enhanced AN/TPQ-36 Initial Production Radar Systems currently listed as options within contract W15P7T-06-C-T004. Work will be performed in Syracuse, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by Oct. 25, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Mar. 23, 2008, and one bid was received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15-P7T-06-C-T004).
Joseph B. Fay Co., Tarentum, PA, was awarded on Jul. 25, a $34,442,049.75, contract for replacement of 8 vertical lift gates, operating machinery, electrical systems and controls; fabricating and delivering three new lift gates; transporting and installing three government-furnished lift gates; modifying one existing lift gate; removing the existing vertical lift gates, gate hoist machinery, and machinery houses; modifying the dam piers to accommodate the new hydraulic gate hoist equipment, replacing embedded metal in the gate recesses of the dam piers; installing the new lift gates; and constructing new machinery houses at the Emsworth Locks and Dam, Emsworth Main Channel Dam, Ohio River,Pennsylvania. Work will be performed in the Emsworth Locks and Dam, Ohio River, Penn., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were (web) bids solicited on Apr. 14, 2008, and three bids were received. US Army Engineer District, Pittsburgh, PA is the contracting activity (W911WN-08-C-0008).
Science Application International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $19,956,974 Firm-Fixed Price contract for maintenance and sustainment for vehicle and cargo inspection systems located in southwest Asia. Work will be performed in Southwest Asia, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 4, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on May 23, 2008, and one bid was received. TACOM-Rock Island, AMSTA-LC-CTC, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52H09-08-D-0348).
Hodges Transportation Inc., Silver Springs, Nev., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $5,822,596 Cost-plus Fixed Fee contract for designing, fabricating and testing multiple Technology Demonstration Integration Test Beds with TRL 7 or higher Technology and delivering a detailed final report of the results and findings. Work will be performed in Silver Springs, Nev., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 30, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jun. 6, 2008 and one bid was received. TACOM-LCMC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-F-0102).
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $79,768,459 Firm Fixed Price, contract for the procurement of five War Replacement AH-64D Apache Longbow Aircraft. Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Apr. 30, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Dec. 20, 2007 and onebid was received. US Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, AL., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ05-C-0274).
Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin, were awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $103,413,788, contract for missile rounds, Command Launch Units, Battery Coolant Units, Field Tactical Trainers – Student Stations, Authorized Stockage Lists and Enhanced Productibility Basic Skills Trainers (EPBSTs); and Missile Rounds for United Arab Emirates and Oman. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., and Orlando, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 29, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jul. 31, 2007, and 1 bid was received. US Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0136).
Navy
ALFAB, Inc.*, Enterprise, Ala., is being awarded a $43,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the manufacture of three types of AM-2 matting packages, F-71, F-72, and F-73, which include end frames, stampings/markings, end sheets, and locking bars. AM-2 Matting is utilized for aircraft launch and recovery. The initial delivery order will include 1,675 F-71 AM-2 matting packages. Work will be performed in Enterprise, Ala., and is expected to be completed in July 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured under an electronic request for proposals as a 100 percent small business set-aside; two offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-08-D-0025).
Psomas and Associates, Costa Mesa, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $7,500,000 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity architect/engineering contract for engineering services for surveying and mapping in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility (AOR). The work to be performed provides for surveying and mapping services such as cadastral surveys, topographic surveys, aerial surveys, geodetic surveying, construction surveys, Alta surveys, hydrographic surveys, special studies, title searches, civil site improvements drawings and specifications and GIS (geographic information system) database/mapping. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps facilities and other government facilities within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR including, but not limited to Calif., (87 percent); Ariz., (5 percent), Nev., (5 percent), Colo., (1 percent), N.M., (1 percent) and Utah, (1%), and work is expected to be completed Jul. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation websitewith 13 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-08-D-8640).
Architects Hawaii, Limited, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a not-to-exceed $7,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for architect-engineer services for preparation of plans and specifications for bachelor quarters and other architectural projects. The scope of work is to procure design and engineering services for preparation of engineering studies and/or project design consisting of contract documents for construction, cost estimates, design analysis, prepare request for proposal documents for design-build, geotechnical investigation, topographic survey, post construction award services, and architect-engineer quality assurance plan. Work will be performed in various locations throughout Hawaii, and the expected date of completion is Jul. 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with 15 proposals solicited and 10 offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62478-08-D-5003).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Akima Corp., Charlotte, N.C., is being awarded a maximum $18,701,847 firm fixed price contract for operation and maintenance services of bulk fuel facilities. Other locations of performance are Calif., Nev., Ariz., and N.M. Using service is Air Force. This proposal was originally Web solicited with nine responses. This is a five-year multiyear contract. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept., 1, 2013. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SPO600-08-C-5839).
Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems of Linthicum, Md., is being awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract with cost plus fixed fee (completion) type task order for a shared ceiling of ID/IQ contract of $41 million. This contract action for Sensors Technology Automated Recognition is to develop technologies in a wide-range of application areas that continue to advance the technical improvements to warfighters either directly or indirectly. Examples include CID, data fusion, Ground Moving Target Indication/Airborne Moving. At this time an incremental funding amount on task order 0001 of $2 million has been obligated. AFRL/PKSR, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-08-D-1447, FA8650-08-D-1447-0001).
Raytheon Co., of El Segundo, Calif., is being awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract with cost plus fixed fee (completion) type task order for a shared ceiling of ID/IQ contract of $41 million. This contract action for Sensors Technology Automated Recognition is to develop technologies in a wide-range of application areas that continue to advance the technical improvements to warfighters either directly or indirectly. Examples include CID, data fusion, Ground Moving Target Indication/Airborne Moving Target Indication, Suppression of Enemy Air Defense, countermeasures, Sensor to Decision Maker processing, Targeting, Intelligence and Battle Damage Assessment and ISR. Additional examples of specific technologies that may be encountered on this program include Electro-Optical, Infrared, Radar, Multi-Spectral, Hyperspectral, Laser Technology, and processors but are not limited to these. Improvement in these areas involves technical assessment, hardware and software modifications and development, systems engineering development and integration, Technology and/or Technology application demonstration in the laboratory or in a flight test or as a participant in a larger demonstration or exercise. The performance of the technologies developed will also be evaluated. Task Order 0001 for this contract is "Airborne Data Collection for Combat Identification." The scope of this Task Order is to utilize an airborne CID test bid to collect data with an air-to-air (A/A) CID radar waveform. The effort will involve collection, processing and delivery of both processed and unprocessed airborne target data. At this time $533,000 has been obligated (incremental funding amount on task order 0001). AFRL/PKSR, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8650-08-D-1446, FA8650-08-D-1446-0001).
Accenture National Security Systems, LLC, of Reston, Va., is being awarded a cost plus fixed fee contract for $22,183,000. These DNCE-M&S services will expand on existing services, develop workflows, and target deployment to warfighter environments where applicable. At this time $2,608,200 has been obligated. 753 ELSG/PK, Electronic Systems Center, Air Force Materiel Command, USAF, Hanscom AFB, Mass., is the contracting activity (FA8731-08-C-0003).
FlightSafety Services Corp., of Centennial, Colo., is being awarded a firm fixed price contract for $14,110,453. This contract is for one Weapons System Trainer. This trainer is being procured for training of pilots and crew on the MC-130W aircraft. This trainer is used to support the Aircrew Training and Rehearsal Systems contract. At this time all funds have been obligated. Department of the Air Force, OO-ALC/ACSG/PK, Hill AFB, Utah, is the contracting activity (FA8223-08-C-0008).
The Air Force is modifying a fixed price incentive firm contract with Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Integrated Systems Air Combat Systems, of San Diego, Calif., not to exceed $324,600,000. This contract will provide 2 RQ-4B Block 301 Global Hawk Air Vehicles, 3 RQ-4B Block 40 Air Vehicles with MP-RTIP sensor, one Mission Element, one Launch and Recovery Element, and associated equipment; option for four EISS sensor payloads. At this time $180,351,181 has been obligated. 303 AESG/PK, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-07-C-4015 P00008).
Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., Systems Engineering Solutions, Boulder, Colo., is being awarded a task order against a GSA schedule contract for $13,752,953. This contract action is for Advisory and Assistance Services to include studies, analyses, evaluations, engineering and technical services for the Human Effectiveness Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory. At this time one million has been obligated. 88 CONS/PK, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8601-08-F-0105).
L3 Communications Corp., Communications Systems West, of Salt Lake City, Utah, is being awarded a firm fixed price contract for $10,764,222. This contract is for Manufacture, test and delivery for Ku Data Link Hardware. At this time $10,764,222 has been obligated. 703 AESG/PK (Predator Contracting Group), Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8620-05-G-3027-0020).
Army
Joint Tech Services Inc., Kailua, Hawaii, was awarded on July 24 a $5,777,507 Firm Fixed Price contract for a six-month extension for Iraqi Defense Network. Work will be performed in Iraq and is expected to be completed by Jan 24, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on July 24, and one bid was received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-08-C-D026).
Lockheed Martin MS2, Syracuse, N.Y., was awarded on Jul. 25, a $84,287,332 Firm Fixed Price, contract for accelerating the production and delivery of the twelve Enhanced AN/TPQ-36 Initial Production Radar Systems currently listed as options within contract W15P7T-06-C-T004. Work will be performed in Syracuse, N.Y., and is expected to be completed by Oct. 25, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Mar. 23, 2008, and one bid was received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15-P7T-06-C-T004).
Joseph B. Fay Co., Tarentum, PA, was awarded on Jul. 25, a $34,442,049.75, contract for replacement of 8 vertical lift gates, operating machinery, electrical systems and controls; fabricating and delivering three new lift gates; transporting and installing three government-furnished lift gates; modifying one existing lift gate; removing the existing vertical lift gates, gate hoist machinery, and machinery houses; modifying the dam piers to accommodate the new hydraulic gate hoist equipment, replacing embedded metal in the gate recesses of the dam piers; installing the new lift gates; and constructing new machinery houses at the Emsworth Locks and Dam, Emsworth Main Channel Dam, Ohio River,Pennsylvania. Work will be performed in the Emsworth Locks and Dam, Ohio River, Penn., and is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were (web) bids solicited on Apr. 14, 2008, and three bids were received. US Army Engineer District, Pittsburgh, PA is the contracting activity (W911WN-08-C-0008).
Science Application International Corp., San Diego, Calif., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $19,956,974 Firm-Fixed Price contract for maintenance and sustainment for vehicle and cargo inspection systems located in southwest Asia. Work will be performed in Southwest Asia, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 4, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on May 23, 2008, and one bid was received. TACOM-Rock Island, AMSTA-LC-CTC, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52H09-08-D-0348).
Hodges Transportation Inc., Silver Springs, Nev., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $5,822,596 Cost-plus Fixed Fee contract for designing, fabricating and testing multiple Technology Demonstration Integration Test Beds with TRL 7 or higher Technology and delivering a detailed final report of the results and findings. Work will be performed in Silver Springs, Nev., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 30, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jun. 6, 2008 and one bid was received. TACOM-LCMC, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-08-F-0102).
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $79,768,459 Firm Fixed Price, contract for the procurement of five War Replacement AH-64D Apache Longbow Aircraft. Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., and is expected to be completed by Apr. 30, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Dec. 20, 2007 and onebid was received. US Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, AL., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ05-C-0274).
Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin, were awarded on Jul. 28, 2008, a $103,413,788, contract for missile rounds, Command Launch Units, Battery Coolant Units, Field Tactical Trainers – Student Stations, Authorized Stockage Lists and Enhanced Productibility Basic Skills Trainers (EPBSTs); and Missile Rounds for United Arab Emirates and Oman. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz., and Orlando, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 29, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was one bid solicited on Jul. 31, 2007, and 1 bid was received. US Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0136).
Navy
ALFAB, Inc.*, Enterprise, Ala., is being awarded a $43,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the manufacture of three types of AM-2 matting packages, F-71, F-72, and F-73, which include end frames, stampings/markings, end sheets, and locking bars. AM-2 Matting is utilized for aircraft launch and recovery. The initial delivery order will include 1,675 F-71 AM-2 matting packages. Work will be performed in Enterprise, Ala., and is expected to be completed in July 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured under an electronic request for proposals as a 100 percent small business set-aside; two offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-08-D-0025).
Psomas and Associates, Costa Mesa, Calif., is being awarded a maximum $7,500,000 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity architect/engineering contract for engineering services for surveying and mapping in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility (AOR). The work to be performed provides for surveying and mapping services such as cadastral surveys, topographic surveys, aerial surveys, geodetic surveying, construction surveys, Alta surveys, hydrographic surveys, special studies, title searches, civil site improvements drawings and specifications and GIS (geographic information system) database/mapping. Work will be performed at various Navy and Marine Corps facilities and other government facilities within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR including, but not limited to Calif., (87 percent); Ariz., (5 percent), Nev., (5 percent), Colo., (1 percent), N.M., (1 percent) and Utah, (1%), and work is expected to be completed Jul. 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the NAVFAC e-solicitation websitewith 13 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-08-D-8640).
Architects Hawaii, Limited, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded a not-to-exceed $7,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for architect-engineer services for preparation of plans and specifications for bachelor quarters and other architectural projects. The scope of work is to procure design and engineering services for preparation of engineering studies and/or project design consisting of contract documents for construction, cost estimates, design analysis, prepare request for proposal documents for design-build, geotechnical investigation, topographic survey, post construction award services, and architect-engineer quality assurance plan. Work will be performed in various locations throughout Hawaii, and the expected date of completion is Jul. 2009. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured with 15 proposals solicited and 10 offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62478-08-D-5003).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Akima Corp., Charlotte, N.C., is being awarded a maximum $18,701,847 firm fixed price contract for operation and maintenance services of bulk fuel facilities. Other locations of performance are Calif., Nev., Ariz., and N.M. Using service is Air Force. This proposal was originally Web solicited with nine responses. This is a five-year multiyear contract. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept., 1, 2013. The contracting activity is Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va. (SPO600-08-C-5839).
Wheelchair Games Provide Therapy, Fun for Disabled Vets
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - About 500 disabled veterans, including recently wounded warriors from Iraq and Afghanistan, are entering their final day of competition here today at the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games. The event is the world's largest annual wheelchair sports competition. It brings together veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations or other mobility or neurological conditions to compete in 17 different events.
Veterans Affairs Secretary James B. Peake, who opened the competition July 25, called it a big part of the veterans' rehabilitation and said the games provide "a therapeutic extension" of the top-notch health care veterans receive in VA medical centers.
"Rehabilitation is crucial to living a full life following an injury," Peake said. "I applaud all of the veterans participating as they strive to achieve their goals during this week of athletic competition."
Competition was running fierce during the third day of competition yesterday, with participants fanned out to venues across Omaha to compete in swimming, basketball, track, weight lifting, softball, air guns, quad rugby, nine-ball billiards, field events, bowling, table tennis, archery, hand cycling, wheelchair slalom, trapshooting, a motorized wheelchair relay, and power soccer.
In addition, athletes with prostheses had the option of competing in several stand-up events.
Airmen 1st Class Silvia Lisseth and Crystal Holk, both active-duty airmen at nearby Offutt Air Force Base served as volunteers at a platform in the Qwest Center, where winners received their medals.
Lisseth said she was blown away by the veterans' enthusiasm for the games.
"It's amazing to see how much they put into this and how much heart they have in it," she said. Holk said she felt honored to announce each winner's awards before the medal presentations. "It's really inspiring to see how motivated they are to come and win these, and then to see the big smiles when they wear those medals," she said.
But Randy L. Pleva Sr., president of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, which cosponsors the games, said the games are about much more than medals. "They're a mix of camaraderie, competition and courage," he said. "And they're rehabilitation at its best for our paralyzed veterans."
Tiffany Smith, a recreational therapist from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, brought five patients to the games, three of them for the first time. "It's a real morale boost for them to come here and get challenges personally outside the hospital setting," she said.
The games "bring back their competitive streak and show them that they are able to return to what they used to do in a competitive way," Smith said. Meanwhile, they provide a forum for building leadership, self-esteem and a sense of teamwork, she said.
Participating in the games "opens a whole doorway for them," said Steve Zaracki, a sports coordinator who works for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. "You see their spirit open up. It's inspiring."
Zaracki said it's particularly gratifying to work with recent combat veterans who still are adjusting to their wounds.
"It makes you really want to provide for them because of all that they have done for us," he said. "You want to motivate them. You want to push them. You want to inspire them to say, 'Look, I can do this. There is life in a wheelchair.'"
American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - About 500 disabled veterans, including recently wounded warriors from Iraq and Afghanistan, are entering their final day of competition here today at the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games. The event is the world's largest annual wheelchair sports competition. It brings together veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations or other mobility or neurological conditions to compete in 17 different events.
Veterans Affairs Secretary James B. Peake, who opened the competition July 25, called it a big part of the veterans' rehabilitation and said the games provide "a therapeutic extension" of the top-notch health care veterans receive in VA medical centers.
"Rehabilitation is crucial to living a full life following an injury," Peake said. "I applaud all of the veterans participating as they strive to achieve their goals during this week of athletic competition."
Competition was running fierce during the third day of competition yesterday, with participants fanned out to venues across Omaha to compete in swimming, basketball, track, weight lifting, softball, air guns, quad rugby, nine-ball billiards, field events, bowling, table tennis, archery, hand cycling, wheelchair slalom, trapshooting, a motorized wheelchair relay, and power soccer.
In addition, athletes with prostheses had the option of competing in several stand-up events.
Airmen 1st Class Silvia Lisseth and Crystal Holk, both active-duty airmen at nearby Offutt Air Force Base served as volunteers at a platform in the Qwest Center, where winners received their medals.
Lisseth said she was blown away by the veterans' enthusiasm for the games.
"It's amazing to see how much they put into this and how much heart they have in it," she said. Holk said she felt honored to announce each winner's awards before the medal presentations. "It's really inspiring to see how motivated they are to come and win these, and then to see the big smiles when they wear those medals," she said.
But Randy L. Pleva Sr., president of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, which cosponsors the games, said the games are about much more than medals. "They're a mix of camaraderie, competition and courage," he said. "And they're rehabilitation at its best for our paralyzed veterans."
Tiffany Smith, a recreational therapist from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, brought five patients to the games, three of them for the first time. "It's a real morale boost for them to come here and get challenges personally outside the hospital setting," she said.
The games "bring back their competitive streak and show them that they are able to return to what they used to do in a competitive way," Smith said. Meanwhile, they provide a forum for building leadership, self-esteem and a sense of teamwork, she said.
Participating in the games "opens a whole doorway for them," said Steve Zaracki, a sports coordinator who works for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. "You see their spirit open up. It's inspiring."
Zaracki said it's particularly gratifying to work with recent combat veterans who still are adjusting to their wounds.
"It makes you really want to provide for them because of all that they have done for us," he said. "You want to motivate them. You want to push them. You want to inspire them to say, 'Look, I can do this. There is life in a wheelchair.'"
International Partners Build Skills During Exercise
By Tim Kilbride
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - An international security cooperation exercise taking place in the former Soviet republic of Georgia is teaching lessons that will be applied in Iraq and around the world, the U.S. commander in charge of the exercise said today. Army Brig. Gen. William B. Garrett III, commander of the Southern European Task Force (Airborne), is serving as exercise director for Exercise Immediate Response 2008. He told online journalists that the series of training programs and cross-cultural activities is designed to reinforce the participating militaries' existing skills, teach new ones and forge professional bonds among the forces that will serve them in future partnerships.
The exercise, taking place outside the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, has united forces from several nations to participate in small-arms, combat lifesaver and situational training exercises. Countries involved include the United States, Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Armenia.
"To accomplish all these events, we are forced to live together, work together, train together. And this combined approach, in my view, has provided an opportunity to learn about different cultures and also to promote understanding and cooperation between our forces," Garrett said.
Situational training involved "tough, realistic counterinsurgency" drills based on an Iraq scenario with small-unit live-fire exercises, improvised-explosive-device recognition and response, and simulated helicopter evacuation of wounded troops," Garrett said.
Those skills will be put to use by the Georgians' 4th Brigade when it deploys to Iraq in 2009, he said.
"What I kind of consider the golden nugget in all of this," Garrett said, "is a fully digital command post exercise that we conducted to train the 4th Brigade commander and his staff on the procedures they will employ in Iraq."
At the same time, the small-unit drills "encouraged independent decisions by leaders, while providing soldiers with immediate target feedback," Garrett explained.
The exercise involves about 1,000 U.S. troops, 600 Georgian soldiers, and teams of roughly 12 people each from Azerbaijan, Armenia and Ukraine. Representatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan requested to come back next year with larger contingents, Garrett said.
The location of next year's exercise is still to be determined. Poland and Bulgaria have played host in previous years.
Garrett indicated the focus during this year's remaining time would switch to strengthening professional ties, with events including a sports and culture day.
(Tim Kilbride works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 29, 2008 - An international security cooperation exercise taking place in the former Soviet republic of Georgia is teaching lessons that will be applied in Iraq and around the world, the U.S. commander in charge of the exercise said today. Army Brig. Gen. William B. Garrett III, commander of the Southern European Task Force (Airborne), is serving as exercise director for Exercise Immediate Response 2008. He told online journalists that the series of training programs and cross-cultural activities is designed to reinforce the participating militaries' existing skills, teach new ones and forge professional bonds among the forces that will serve them in future partnerships.
The exercise, taking place outside the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, has united forces from several nations to participate in small-arms, combat lifesaver and situational training exercises. Countries involved include the United States, Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Armenia.
"To accomplish all these events, we are forced to live together, work together, train together. And this combined approach, in my view, has provided an opportunity to learn about different cultures and also to promote understanding and cooperation between our forces," Garrett said.
Situational training involved "tough, realistic counterinsurgency" drills based on an Iraq scenario with small-unit live-fire exercises, improvised-explosive-device recognition and response, and simulated helicopter evacuation of wounded troops," Garrett said.
Those skills will be put to use by the Georgians' 4th Brigade when it deploys to Iraq in 2009, he said.
"What I kind of consider the golden nugget in all of this," Garrett said, "is a fully digital command post exercise that we conducted to train the 4th Brigade commander and his staff on the procedures they will employ in Iraq."
At the same time, the small-unit drills "encouraged independent decisions by leaders, while providing soldiers with immediate target feedback," Garrett explained.
The exercise involves about 1,000 U.S. troops, 600 Georgian soldiers, and teams of roughly 12 people each from Azerbaijan, Armenia and Ukraine. Representatives from Armenia and Azerbaijan requested to come back next year with larger contingents, Garrett said.
The location of next year's exercise is still to be determined. Poland and Bulgaria have played host in previous years.
Garrett indicated the focus during this year's remaining time would switch to strengthening professional ties, with events including a sports and culture day.
(Tim Kilbride works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)
Cartwright Returns Home to Dedicate Korean War Memorial
By Air Force Master Sgt. Adam M. Stump
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 28, 2008 - The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff returned to his hometown to help dedicate a Korean War Memorial yesterday. Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright, a native of neighboring Rockford, served as the keynote speaker at the dedication.
The general, speaking to an audience of dozens of Korean War veterans and hundreds of others, said that while it may carry the "forgotten war" moniker, the conflict and the sacrifices of those who fought in Korea will never be forgotten.
"The Korean War was hard-fought and a great sacrifice," the general, a graduate of Rockford West High School, said.
Cartwright said the sacrifice included the thousands of men who died, including more than 50 from the tri-county area near Rockford.
"It is often said a nation's greatest treasure are its youth," Cartwright said. "We commit our youth every time we commit ourselves to war. Many of that great population of youth perished."
The general said he's seen a lot of the battle sites in Korea, having served five tours in the Pacific. Cartwright said he once took a Marine general on a flight parallel to the demilitarized zone, showing him the valleys and other areas where armed conflicts had occurred years earlier. In one of the corridors, Cartwright was telling the general about Chesty Puller, a famous Marine general who had been overrun and was heading back south.
The general Cartwright was flying that day had been a company commander under Puller. His entire company had been killed in one night during the battle. He then went back and got another company and every one of them was killed, as well. Cartwright said the experience was truly humbling.
"It is hard to explain the emotion of the people I was privileged to spend time with, to listen to their stories, to listen to their understanding of what occurred over there," Cartwright said.
But, the fight was well worth it, Cartwright said. Over his time in the military, he said, he's watched South Korea turn into a nation with a vibrant economy, massive industry and numerous highways. He said when someone looks across the DMZ into North Korea, "you don't see much," noting the country's struggling economy, limited industry and lack of highways.
"Today, we are turning over control of most of the combat forces and most of the combat responsibilities to the South Koreans," the vice chairman said. "We are moving from the DMZ as a nation to south of the Han River. It's the right thing to do. [South Korea] is ready to stand up."
(Air Force Master Sgt. Adam M. Stump is assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff Public Affairs Office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 28, 2008 - The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff returned to his hometown to help dedicate a Korean War Memorial yesterday. Marine Gen. James E. Cartwright, a native of neighboring Rockford, served as the keynote speaker at the dedication.
The general, speaking to an audience of dozens of Korean War veterans and hundreds of others, said that while it may carry the "forgotten war" moniker, the conflict and the sacrifices of those who fought in Korea will never be forgotten.
"The Korean War was hard-fought and a great sacrifice," the general, a graduate of Rockford West High School, said.
Cartwright said the sacrifice included the thousands of men who died, including more than 50 from the tri-county area near Rockford.
"It is often said a nation's greatest treasure are its youth," Cartwright said. "We commit our youth every time we commit ourselves to war. Many of that great population of youth perished."
The general said he's seen a lot of the battle sites in Korea, having served five tours in the Pacific. Cartwright said he once took a Marine general on a flight parallel to the demilitarized zone, showing him the valleys and other areas where armed conflicts had occurred years earlier. In one of the corridors, Cartwright was telling the general about Chesty Puller, a famous Marine general who had been overrun and was heading back south.
The general Cartwright was flying that day had been a company commander under Puller. His entire company had been killed in one night during the battle. He then went back and got another company and every one of them was killed, as well. Cartwright said the experience was truly humbling.
"It is hard to explain the emotion of the people I was privileged to spend time with, to listen to their stories, to listen to their understanding of what occurred over there," Cartwright said.
But, the fight was well worth it, Cartwright said. Over his time in the military, he said, he's watched South Korea turn into a nation with a vibrant economy, massive industry and numerous highways. He said when someone looks across the DMZ into North Korea, "you don't see much," noting the country's struggling economy, limited industry and lack of highways.
"Today, we are turning over control of most of the combat forces and most of the combat responsibilities to the South Koreans," the vice chairman said. "We are moving from the DMZ as a nation to south of the Han River. It's the right thing to do. [South Korea] is ready to stand up."
(Air Force Master Sgt. Adam M. Stump is assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff Public Affairs Office.)
First Joint Chiefs Vice Chairman Dies in San Antonio
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
July 28, 2008 - Retired Air Force Gen. Robert T. Herres, the first vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, died July 24 after a long illness. He was 75. Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said all members of the armed forces mourn the passing of a man he called a pioneer.
"As we mourn his passing, so too should we reflect on his contributions to our national security -- of the thousands of lives he guided, the careers he mentored, the difference he made simply by virtue of his leadership," Mullen said. "We are a stronger, more capable military today in large part because of his efforts to make us so. He will be missed."
Herres was born in Denver on Dec. 1, 1932. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy, but took his commission in the Air Force in 1954. He flew F-86 fighters and served at various posts in the United States and Europe.
In 1966, the Air Force selected Herres as an astronaut-pilot for the Manned Orbiting Laboratory program, but officials cancelled the program in 1969, and Herres never got a chance to fly in space.
As a colonel, Herres commanded the provisional 310th Strategic Wing, based in Utapao, Thailand. The wing supported U.S. operations in Southeast Asia. He became a brigadier general in 1974. He commanded Air Force Communications Command at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., from 1979 to 1981 and 8th Air Force based at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., from 1981 to 1982.
In 1984, Herres pinned on his fourth star and took over North American Aerospace Defense Command. The Defense Department was working to put all space assets under one command, and on Sept. 23, 1985, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation creating the U.S. Space Command and appointed Herres as its first commander.
Military actions in the early 1980s in Iran, Grenada, Lebanon and other areas highlighted the need for the services to act jointly. The result was the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986, which reorganized the Joint Chiefs of Staff and created the position of vice chairman. Reagan selected Herres to be the first vice chairman, and he took office serving first under Navy Adm. William J. Crowe and then under Army Gen. Colin Powell during their terms as chairman.
The job was new, and Crowe, Herres and Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger set out to make it meaningful. In addition to acting as the chairman when the chairman was not available, they decided the vice chairman would chair the Joint Requirements Oversight Council and the Nuclear Command and Control System. Herres also served as the vice chairman of the Defense Acquisition Board. These positions allowed him to help set military requirements for major acquisitions. During his term, he concentrated on close-air support, space-based surveillance and anti-satellite systems.
Herres retired in February 1990. He moved to San Antonio and joined USAA, an insurance and financial services association.
"As the very first vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, ... it was he who institutionalized the role of the military in setting requirements for major weapons systems, putting that process back in the hands of the Joint Staff," Mullen said. "He served his nation nobly for more than 35 years as a skilled pilot, engineer, programmer and analyst. He was an early pioneer of aerospace research and a master of command, control and communications management, leading at virtually every level in the U.S. Air Force."
Herres is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley, and three children: Julie Latenser, Michael Herres and Jennifer Babeon. He will be buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
American Forces Press Service
July 28, 2008 - Retired Air Force Gen. Robert T. Herres, the first vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, died July 24 after a long illness. He was 75. Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said all members of the armed forces mourn the passing of a man he called a pioneer.
"As we mourn his passing, so too should we reflect on his contributions to our national security -- of the thousands of lives he guided, the careers he mentored, the difference he made simply by virtue of his leadership," Mullen said. "We are a stronger, more capable military today in large part because of his efforts to make us so. He will be missed."
Herres was born in Denver on Dec. 1, 1932. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy, but took his commission in the Air Force in 1954. He flew F-86 fighters and served at various posts in the United States and Europe.
In 1966, the Air Force selected Herres as an astronaut-pilot for the Manned Orbiting Laboratory program, but officials cancelled the program in 1969, and Herres never got a chance to fly in space.
As a colonel, Herres commanded the provisional 310th Strategic Wing, based in Utapao, Thailand. The wing supported U.S. operations in Southeast Asia. He became a brigadier general in 1974. He commanded Air Force Communications Command at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., from 1979 to 1981 and 8th Air Force based at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., from 1981 to 1982.
In 1984, Herres pinned on his fourth star and took over North American Aerospace Defense Command. The Defense Department was working to put all space assets under one command, and on Sept. 23, 1985, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation creating the U.S. Space Command and appointed Herres as its first commander.
Military actions in the early 1980s in Iran, Grenada, Lebanon and other areas highlighted the need for the services to act jointly. The result was the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986, which reorganized the Joint Chiefs of Staff and created the position of vice chairman. Reagan selected Herres to be the first vice chairman, and he took office serving first under Navy Adm. William J. Crowe and then under Army Gen. Colin Powell during their terms as chairman.
The job was new, and Crowe, Herres and Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger set out to make it meaningful. In addition to acting as the chairman when the chairman was not available, they decided the vice chairman would chair the Joint Requirements Oversight Council and the Nuclear Command and Control System. Herres also served as the vice chairman of the Defense Acquisition Board. These positions allowed him to help set military requirements for major acquisitions. During his term, he concentrated on close-air support, space-based surveillance and anti-satellite systems.
Herres retired in February 1990. He moved to San Antonio and joined USAA, an insurance and financial services association.
"As the very first vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, ... it was he who institutionalized the role of the military in setting requirements for major weapons systems, putting that process back in the hands of the Joint Staff," Mullen said. "He served his nation nobly for more than 35 years as a skilled pilot, engineer, programmer and analyst. He was an early pioneer of aerospace research and a master of command, control and communications management, leading at virtually every level in the U.S. Air Force."
Herres is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley, and three children: Julie Latenser, Michael Herres and Jennifer Babeon. He will be buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
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