AIR FORCE
The Air Force is modifying an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with four contractors for a maximum of $64,000,000. ECSI International, Inc. of Clifton, New Jersey (F19628-03-D-0011, P00021), Abacus of Chevy Chase, Maryland (F19628-03-D-0012, P00023), Northrop Grumman Space and Mission System of Carson, Calif. (F19628-03-D-0019 P00025), L-3 Communications Gov Services, Inc, of Chantilly, Virginia (F19628-03-D-0011 P00021). The purpose of the modification is to increase the Integrated Based Defense Security System contract ceiling by $64,000,000 from $498,000,000 to $562,000,000 and update contract B-Tables for Equipment Prices for fiscal year 2009 and Labor Rates for fiscal year 2009 and fiscal year 2010. At this time, no money has been obligated. HQ Electronic Systems Center, Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts is the contracting activity.
The Air Force is modifying a cost plus incentive fee contract with Northrop Grumman Space Technology, Clearfield, Utah for $36,959,911. The contract will provide the Minuteman III Safety Enhanced Reentry Vehicle full rate production option. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 526 ICBMSG/PKE, Hill Air Force Base, Utah is the contracting activity (F42610-98-C-0001).
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus award fee contract with Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, San Diego, California for $13,474,949. This contract is for engineering, manufacturing and development activities in support of the Global Hawk Program. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. 303 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (F33657-01-C-4600, P00288).
NAVY
L3 Communications Corporation EOS, Garland, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $48,864,799 firm fixed price, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for Submersible Binocular Night Vision Systems (SBNVSs). The SBNVSs will be used by U.S. Navy Personnel to provide night vision capability. Work will be performed in Garland, Texas, and is expected to be completed by January 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via Federal Business Opportunities, with four offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane, Ind., is the contracting activity (N00164-09-D-JQ69).
BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a $19,587,085 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-05-C-4403) for the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) FY09 docked phased maintenance availability. The following work items will be accomplished: repair bilge keel; accomplish underwater hull inspection; repair salt water ballast tank; repair/replace underwater hull sea chest; replace distilling plant brine pump overboard discharge piping; accomplish underwater hull preservation; inspect and repair impressed cathodic protection system; and other work items to support those mentioned above. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, Va., and is expected to be completed by October 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $19,587,085 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
PKL Services, Inc.*, Poway, Calif., is being awarded a $17,023,049 firm fixed price contract for Lots 3 and 4 for selected organizational-level maintenance (Reset) on the Marine Corps AH-1W, UH-1N, CH-53D/E, and CH-46E aircraft platforms. Work will be performed in Camp Pendleton, Calif. (30 percent); New River, N.C. (25 percent); Iraq/Afghanistan (22 percent); Miramar, Calif. (18 percent); and Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in June 2009. Contract funds in the amount of $17,003,249 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Lot 3 was competed as a 100 percent small business set-aside; Lot 4 was a competitive 8(a). Lot 3 received two offers and Lot 4 received three offers. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-09-C-0023).
EMCOR Government Services, Inc., Arlington, Va., is being awarded $13,598,904 to exercise the second option period under a previously awarded combination firm fixed price, indefinite quantity contract (N40080-07-D-0374) with award options for base operations support services in the Washington, D.C. area. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, general management and administration services; facilities maintenance, repair, and management; restoration/modernization; contingency/disaster recovery services; and base support services. The current total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $48,902,927. Work will be performed at various installations within a hundred mile radius of Washington, D.C., and work for this option is expected to be completed Dec. 15, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Progeny Systems Corporation, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $13,563,474 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity, cost plus fixed fee contract for engineering services in support of the MK54 torpedo systems. The contractor will be required to perform engineering efforts including technology assessment, mechanical and electrical component analysis, hardware/software development, critical item testing, hardware/software integration, certification and test, and life cycle logistics studies necessary for the testing and evaluation, prototype and engineering development model components of torpedo systems. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va. (80 percent), and other locations including Newport, R.I. (20 percent), and is expected to be completed by January 2014. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, R.I., is the contracting activity (N66604-09-D-0002).
Adaptive Methods, Inc.*, Centreville, Va., is being awarded a not-to-exceed $9,750,000 indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for a Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Project under Topic N02-152 entitled "Environmental Mission Planner – The Total Solution." The contractor will provide services and materials for the design and development of an innovative total system solution for the tactical antisubmarine warfare (ASW) environmental mission planner that provides universal compatibility with minimal impact on existing and future aircraft and tactical support cent-based systems. Work will be performed in Centreville, Va., and is expected to be completed in December 2013. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured using SBIR Program Solicitation under Topic N02-152 and nine offers were received. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J. is the contracting activity (N68335-09-D-0089).
General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Inc., Fairfax, Va., is being awarded a $7,580,899 cost plus fixed fee contract for system engineering efforts to integrate improved algorithms for the AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 Surface Ship Undersea Warfare combat system. The contractor will leverage state-of-the-art commercial engineering designs as intrinsic technology enablers to improve sonar processing technology. Work under this contract will build upon prior efforts and investments previously made under SBIR topics for the AN/SQQ-89A(V)15/(V)15 Surface Ship Undersea Warfare (USW) combat system. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of the contract to $24,660,428. Work will be performed in Anaheim Hills, Calif., and is expected to be completed by December 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract is being awarded as a Phase III SBIR effort, resulting from a competitive proposal under the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-5205).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Integrys Energy Services, Inc. DePere, Wis. is being awarded a $7,656,429 firm fixed price contract for electricity. Other locations of performance are in Pennsylvania. Using services are Federal Civilian Agencies. There were originally 100 proposals solicited with 14 responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is December 31, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center (DESC), Fort Belvoir, Va. (SP0600-08-D-8036).
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Navy Names Virginia Class Submarine USS John Warner
The secretary of the Navy announced today that the next Virginia-class attack submarine will be named in honor of recently retired Virginia Senator John Warner. Warner retired Jan. 3, 2009, after 30 years of service in the U.S. Senate.
The USS John Warner, honors Warner's lifetime of service to the nation and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Sen. Warner's career in public service began in Jan. 1945, the last year of World War II, when he enlisted at the age of 17 in the U.S. Navy, where he earned the rank of Petty Officer 3rd class. In the Fall of 1949, he joined the Marine Corps Reserve. At the outbreak of the Korean War in Oct. 1950, he volunteered for active duty and was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps and served with the 1st Marine Air Wing as a ground communications officer in Korea. He continued his affiliation with the Marine Corps Reserve, reaching the rank of captain. In Feb. 1969 he was appointed and confirmed by the Senate as under secretary of the Navy, and succeeded Secretary John Chafee as the 61st Secretary of the Navy in 1972 following Senate confirmation during the height of the war in Vietnam. During this period, Warner was designated as chief negotiator for the conference between the U.S. and Soviet navies which led to the Incidents at Sea Agreement which is still in effect today. Entering politics in 1978, he was elected to represent the Commonwealth of Virginia in the U.S. Senate. He served five consecutive terms becoming the 2nd longest serving U.S. Senator from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the 218-year history of the Senate.
During his 30 years of service in the Senate, Warner was a leader in national defense issues serving continuously on the Senate Committee on Armed Services. He held leadership roles as chairman or ranking member for half of his tenure on this committee and also served many years on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. In this capacity, and throughout his career, he has shown unwavering support for the men and women of the armed forces, and has been a champion of modernizing the structure and operations of the military to ensure its effectiveness in the 21st century.
This next-generation attack submarine will provide the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation's undersea supremacy well into the 21st century. It will have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that will enable them to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements.
The USS John Warner will have the capability to attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. Other missions include anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare; mine delivery and minefield mapping. It is also designed for special forces delivery and support, a subject Warner worked on throughout his career in the U.S. Senate.
The Virginia-class is 7,800-tons and 377 feet in length, has a beam of 34 feet, and can operate at more than 25 knots submerged. It is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time. The USS John Warner will be built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., in partnership with General Dynamics/Electric Boat Corporation. Warner was instrumental in developing this construction teaming arrangement concept which was later codified into law.
The USS John Warner, honors Warner's lifetime of service to the nation and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Sen. Warner's career in public service began in Jan. 1945, the last year of World War II, when he enlisted at the age of 17 in the U.S. Navy, where he earned the rank of Petty Officer 3rd class. In the Fall of 1949, he joined the Marine Corps Reserve. At the outbreak of the Korean War in Oct. 1950, he volunteered for active duty and was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps and served with the 1st Marine Air Wing as a ground communications officer in Korea. He continued his affiliation with the Marine Corps Reserve, reaching the rank of captain. In Feb. 1969 he was appointed and confirmed by the Senate as under secretary of the Navy, and succeeded Secretary John Chafee as the 61st Secretary of the Navy in 1972 following Senate confirmation during the height of the war in Vietnam. During this period, Warner was designated as chief negotiator for the conference between the U.S. and Soviet navies which led to the Incidents at Sea Agreement which is still in effect today. Entering politics in 1978, he was elected to represent the Commonwealth of Virginia in the U.S. Senate. He served five consecutive terms becoming the 2nd longest serving U.S. Senator from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the 218-year history of the Senate.
During his 30 years of service in the Senate, Warner was a leader in national defense issues serving continuously on the Senate Committee on Armed Services. He held leadership roles as chairman or ranking member for half of his tenure on this committee and also served many years on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. In this capacity, and throughout his career, he has shown unwavering support for the men and women of the armed forces, and has been a champion of modernizing the structure and operations of the military to ensure its effectiveness in the 21st century.
This next-generation attack submarine will provide the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation's undersea supremacy well into the 21st century. It will have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that will enable them to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements.
The USS John Warner will have the capability to attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. Other missions include anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare; mine delivery and minefield mapping. It is also designed for special forces delivery and support, a subject Warner worked on throughout his career in the U.S. Senate.
The Virginia-class is 7,800-tons and 377 feet in length, has a beam of 34 feet, and can operate at more than 25 knots submerged. It is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time. The USS John Warner will be built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., in partnership with General Dynamics/Electric Boat Corporation. Warner was instrumental in developing this construction teaming arrangement concept which was later codified into law.
Foundation Preserves Memories for Families Experiencing Deployments
By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - Having a loved one go off to war or return from war can be very emotional for families. Many are so overwhelmed that taking pictures of these cherished milestones can be forgotten or just put to the side. A former military spouse has created a foundation of photographers to help military families capture these unforgettable images. Operation: Love ReUnited offers free photography sessions to deploying and deployed families. Each family gets two free sessions in which photographers agree to send photo albums to deployed servicemembers at no cost.
"This movement is touching millions of lives nationwide and around the world," said Tonee Lawrence, founder of Operation: Love ReUnited, whose husband served with the Air Force in Operation Iraqi Freedom. "The Operation helps those long months go by a little faster. It's designed to capture moments that you will long remember and always treasure.
"The soldiers will have a little keepsake with them while at their duty stations," she continued. "It's art. It's love. It's all made possible by artists wanting to give something back to those who make the United States what it is."
And Lawrence is not the only military family member involved in the program.
"As a military wife, I understand how hard it is to be away from your spouse for a long time," said Stefanie Burt, a photographer with the program. "Photos play a very important role. I love to capture real-life moments and emotions. When my husband was deployed to Iraq, he constantly asked for new photos. I think my photos will make the deployment a little bit easier for the families."
Lawrence agreed. "We have three children," she said. "When my husband returned from his deployment, I wasn't able to capture the long-awaiting faces of my little boys when they saw their father for the first time in months. I started thinking about what I could do to make it so families had images of this very special time in their life."
Operation: Love ReUnited helps families find participating photographers in their area through its Web site database at http://www.oplove.org. Families simply type in their ZIP code, contact the photographer and make an appointment for photos.
Jose de Jesus Rocha, whose son, Jose Rocha, returned home from Afghanistan after serving 12 months with the U.S. Army there, was grateful for the photographs.
"The photos were emotional," Rocha said. "The way the [photographer] captured our emotions, expression. The photos were beautiful, fantastic."
The Operation: Love ReUnited Web site is set up only to help deploying or deployed families locate a photographer for two free sessions, Lawrence said, and the families are not obligated to purchase anything. More than 600 photography businesses are registered with the site, some with multiple photographers working on their behalf, she added.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - Having a loved one go off to war or return from war can be very emotional for families. Many are so overwhelmed that taking pictures of these cherished milestones can be forgotten or just put to the side. A former military spouse has created a foundation of photographers to help military families capture these unforgettable images. Operation: Love ReUnited offers free photography sessions to deploying and deployed families. Each family gets two free sessions in which photographers agree to send photo albums to deployed servicemembers at no cost.
"This movement is touching millions of lives nationwide and around the world," said Tonee Lawrence, founder of Operation: Love ReUnited, whose husband served with the Air Force in Operation Iraqi Freedom. "The Operation helps those long months go by a little faster. It's designed to capture moments that you will long remember and always treasure.
"The soldiers will have a little keepsake with them while at their duty stations," she continued. "It's art. It's love. It's all made possible by artists wanting to give something back to those who make the United States what it is."
And Lawrence is not the only military family member involved in the program.
"As a military wife, I understand how hard it is to be away from your spouse for a long time," said Stefanie Burt, a photographer with the program. "Photos play a very important role. I love to capture real-life moments and emotions. When my husband was deployed to Iraq, he constantly asked for new photos. I think my photos will make the deployment a little bit easier for the families."
Lawrence agreed. "We have three children," she said. "When my husband returned from his deployment, I wasn't able to capture the long-awaiting faces of my little boys when they saw their father for the first time in months. I started thinking about what I could do to make it so families had images of this very special time in their life."
Operation: Love ReUnited helps families find participating photographers in their area through its Web site database at http://www.oplove.org. Families simply type in their ZIP code, contact the photographer and make an appointment for photos.
Jose de Jesus Rocha, whose son, Jose Rocha, returned home from Afghanistan after serving 12 months with the U.S. Army there, was grateful for the photographs.
"The photos were emotional," Rocha said. "The way the [photographer] captured our emotions, expression. The photos were beautiful, fantastic."
The Operation: Love ReUnited Web site is set up only to help deploying or deployed families locate a photographer for two free sessions, Lawrence said, and the families are not obligated to purchase anything. More than 600 photography businesses are registered with the site, some with multiple photographers working on their behalf, she added.
Alaska Guardsmen Save 167 Lives in 2008
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - The men and women of the Alaska National Guard are credited with saving 167 lives in Alaska and around the world in 2008. The Alaska Guard was awarded 79 "saves" and 10 "assists" in Alaska, in addition to 72 saves in Afghanistan and 16 on the Gulf Coast while providing hurricane-related support to Texas and Louisiana, officials said. A save is credited when Guardsmen rescue a person who likely would not have survived otherwise, officials said.
"Members from the Alaska National Guard were called on for their skills in Afghanistan, the Gulf Coast and here in Alaska because they are recognized for their professionalism and expertise in search and rescue," Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig E. Campbell, Alaska's adjutant general, said.
Alaska National Guardsmen support search and rescue year-round in Alaska, with September reportedly the busiest month for search and rescue missions in the state. The Alaska Guard was credited with 20 saves in September, three times the number of saves recorded in September 2007, officials said.
"We were literally busy almost every day with something going on," Air Force Maj. Guy Hayes, public affairs officer, said.
In addition to performing day-to-day support in Alaska, Guardsmen from the 176th Wing's 210th, 211th and 212th rescue squadrons at Kulis Air National Guard Base deployed to multiple locations in 2008.
In January, Guardsmen deployed to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, to support combat search and rescue missions in the global war on terrorism. During their six-month deployment, Alaska Guardsmen were credited with saving 72 lives, officials said.
In early September, Guard members were deployed under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a program that allows Guard units to mobilize upon request to render assistance to other states. Supporting search and rescue efforts in Louisiana and Texas, Guardsmen were awarded 16 saves during hurricanes Gustav, Hannah and Ike.
The 11th Rescue Coordination Center, the sole Alaska representative responsible for all aeronautical search and rescue cases in Alaska, released its end-of-year statistics Dec 31.
(From an Alaska National Guard news release.)
Jan. 8, 2009 - The men and women of the Alaska National Guard are credited with saving 167 lives in Alaska and around the world in 2008. The Alaska Guard was awarded 79 "saves" and 10 "assists" in Alaska, in addition to 72 saves in Afghanistan and 16 on the Gulf Coast while providing hurricane-related support to Texas and Louisiana, officials said. A save is credited when Guardsmen rescue a person who likely would not have survived otherwise, officials said.
"Members from the Alaska National Guard were called on for their skills in Afghanistan, the Gulf Coast and here in Alaska because they are recognized for their professionalism and expertise in search and rescue," Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig E. Campbell, Alaska's adjutant general, said.
Alaska National Guardsmen support search and rescue year-round in Alaska, with September reportedly the busiest month for search and rescue missions in the state. The Alaska Guard was credited with 20 saves in September, three times the number of saves recorded in September 2007, officials said.
"We were literally busy almost every day with something going on," Air Force Maj. Guy Hayes, public affairs officer, said.
In addition to performing day-to-day support in Alaska, Guardsmen from the 176th Wing's 210th, 211th and 212th rescue squadrons at Kulis Air National Guard Base deployed to multiple locations in 2008.
In January, Guardsmen deployed to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, to support combat search and rescue missions in the global war on terrorism. During their six-month deployment, Alaska Guardsmen were credited with saving 72 lives, officials said.
In early September, Guard members were deployed under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a program that allows Guard units to mobilize upon request to render assistance to other states. Supporting search and rescue efforts in Louisiana and Texas, Guardsmen were awarded 16 saves during hurricanes Gustav, Hannah and Ike.
The 11th Rescue Coordination Center, the sole Alaska representative responsible for all aeronautical search and rescue cases in Alaska, released its end-of-year statistics Dec 31.
(From an Alaska National Guard news release.)
Mounted Color Guard to Ride in Inaugural Parade
By Bill Armstrong
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - Troopers of the 1st Infantry Division Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard here will perform their duties at the ultimate change-of-command ceremony when they ride in the presidential inaugural parade for President-elect Barack Obama on Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C. Fourteen troopers will ride on horseback down Pennsylvania Avenue on a parade route about two and a half miles long, Army 1st Sgt. Dean Stockert of the color guard said. Although the route will take only 30 minutes to complete, the parade tops all others the color guard participates in regarding crowds and noise level, he said.
"We do lots of events and lots of crowds around Kansas. However, our crowds usually fall under the 10,000 people area," Stockert said. "This one will be in the area of about 4.5 million along the parade route. We'll have people lined on each side of the road, plus sirens, plus aircraft, and everything else, so it's going to be a lot more activity for the horses than what they're generally used to."
But although noise will be a factor, Stocker said, he has great confidence in the troopers and their mounts.
"Our horses are pretty disciplined, because they're used to cannon fire, gunfire," he said. "They're probably more disciplined than your average horse out in the community."
The color guard is preparing for the event by getting its wardrobe of Civil War-period uniforms ready and its sabers polished. The blades will remain in their scabbards during the parade. Their horses will wear special shoes made with a layer of borium on the bottom.
"Borium's a hard metal, like tungsten steel, so it will stick to the asphalt," Stockert said. "It won't slip and slide. It will stick to the subway grates and the manhole covers, and keep the horses from sliding."
Despite the stress of the event with live television coverage and the world watching, Stockert said, he looks forward to the parade.
"It's definitely an honor to be able to welcome the new president in and to show our support for the continuing democracy in this country," Stockert said. "We're glad that the inauguration committee selected us to represent Fort Riley, the United States Army and the state of Kansas."
Army Capt. Richard Martinson, color guard commander, echoed his first sergeant's sentiments.
"I think it's a huge personal honor for all of us who are going to be able to go out in front of our president and salute him and really celebrate his coming to office," Martinson said.
This won't be the first time the Fort Riley unit has welcomed a new president. It participated in inaugural parades in 2001 and 2005 for President George W. Bush. The color guard will be one of more than 70 participants in the 2009 parade.
(Bill Armstrong is a staff writer for the Fort Riley Post.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - Troopers of the 1st Infantry Division Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard here will perform their duties at the ultimate change-of-command ceremony when they ride in the presidential inaugural parade for President-elect Barack Obama on Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C. Fourteen troopers will ride on horseback down Pennsylvania Avenue on a parade route about two and a half miles long, Army 1st Sgt. Dean Stockert of the color guard said. Although the route will take only 30 minutes to complete, the parade tops all others the color guard participates in regarding crowds and noise level, he said.
"We do lots of events and lots of crowds around Kansas. However, our crowds usually fall under the 10,000 people area," Stockert said. "This one will be in the area of about 4.5 million along the parade route. We'll have people lined on each side of the road, plus sirens, plus aircraft, and everything else, so it's going to be a lot more activity for the horses than what they're generally used to."
But although noise will be a factor, Stocker said, he has great confidence in the troopers and their mounts.
"Our horses are pretty disciplined, because they're used to cannon fire, gunfire," he said. "They're probably more disciplined than your average horse out in the community."
The color guard is preparing for the event by getting its wardrobe of Civil War-period uniforms ready and its sabers polished. The blades will remain in their scabbards during the parade. Their horses will wear special shoes made with a layer of borium on the bottom.
"Borium's a hard metal, like tungsten steel, so it will stick to the asphalt," Stockert said. "It won't slip and slide. It will stick to the subway grates and the manhole covers, and keep the horses from sliding."
Despite the stress of the event with live television coverage and the world watching, Stockert said, he looks forward to the parade.
"It's definitely an honor to be able to welcome the new president in and to show our support for the continuing democracy in this country," Stockert said. "We're glad that the inauguration committee selected us to represent Fort Riley, the United States Army and the state of Kansas."
Army Capt. Richard Martinson, color guard commander, echoed his first sergeant's sentiments.
"I think it's a huge personal honor for all of us who are going to be able to go out in front of our president and salute him and really celebrate his coming to office," Martinson said.
This won't be the first time the Fort Riley unit has welcomed a new president. It participated in inaugural parades in 2001 and 2005 for President George W. Bush. The color guard will be one of more than 70 participants in the 2009 parade.
(Bill Armstrong is a staff writer for the Fort Riley Post.)
SecDef Releases Statement on the Task Force on Nuclear Weapons Management
"I want to thank the review panel, led by James R. Schlesinger, for their very thorough and detailed report on the 'Secretary of Defense's Task Force on Nuclear Weapons Management,'" said Secretary of Defense Robert Gates today. "I really appreciate the tremendous effort that went into the phase two review of the DoD nuclear mission and commend all of the task force members on the thoughtful recommendations made with respect to these complex and serious issues."
"The U.S. nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and reliable; no one should doubt our capabilities or our resolve to defend U.S. and allies' interests by deterring aggression. The report identified numerous trends, both recent and long-term, that may warrant corrective actions. The Department will continue to review the panel's recommendations while ensuring the long-term credibility of the U.S. nuclear deterrent forces and sustaining allied confidence in U.S. security commitments well into the future," said Gates.
For a copy of the report of the Secretary of Defense Task Force on DoD Nuclear Weapons Management Part II go to: http://www.defenselink.mil/pubs/pdfs/PhaseIIReportFinal.pdf
"The U.S. nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and reliable; no one should doubt our capabilities or our resolve to defend U.S. and allies' interests by deterring aggression. The report identified numerous trends, both recent and long-term, that may warrant corrective actions. The Department will continue to review the panel's recommendations while ensuring the long-term credibility of the U.S. nuclear deterrent forces and sustaining allied confidence in U.S. security commitments well into the future," said Gates.
For a copy of the report of the Secretary of Defense Task Force on DoD Nuclear Weapons Management Part II go to: http://www.defenselink.mil/pubs/pdfs/PhaseIIReportFinal.pdf
Global Health Key to Security Improvements, Official Says
By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - The Defense Department's increasing role in global health is essential in improving security in troubled nations and minimizing conflict in others, the Pentagon's top medical official said yesterday. "Just as good health is an integral part of a person's well-being, a good health sector is vital to a nation's," Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said to an audience at the Global Health Policy Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies here.
Department studies show that diverse and opposing cultural backgrounds and poor human development are key contributors to social unrest, violent conflicts and state failure, Casscells told the group, explaining the Defense Department's global health role.
Poverty, natural disasters, violence, destruction of infrastructure and conflict are fundamental causes of civil strife, poor health and lack of vital services, he said. That can lead to restricted water, food, sanitation and health care access, all of which promote disease, he said.
Therefore, Cascells, said, the military's role is much more sophisticated than security and war, just as global health is much more sophisticated than medicine alone.
When health in a region is poor, "it doesn't mean that you go in and vaccinate people," he said. "You obviously have to go in and try to get the electricity up, the clean water running, the sewage working, the roads. You have to have stability. You have to protect people's lives."
Casscells, an Army Reserve colonel, said he saw all of the previously described scenarios during his tour in Iraq in 2006. He also has first-hand experience with humanitarian relief efforts, having assisted the Gulf Coast region in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
"The long-term outcome of humanitarian activity produces a safer, more secure world," he said. "Security, stability, transition and reconstruction operations [are] intended to enhance infrastructure and improve practices where they didn't exist before. The idea is that by enhancing stability, we will reduce conflict.
"The building part of a soldier's profession is far more important than the breaking part," he continued.
Kathleen Hicks, a senior fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies international security program, said global health and national security are inexorably tied together. Global health initiatives help with overseas populations and can affect nearly every aspect of American safety and prosperity from the stability of foreign governments and populations to the physical well-being of U.S. citizens.
"The United States must have a strategy for global health that's nesting with security elements," Hicks said.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 8, 2009 - The Defense Department's increasing role in global health is essential in improving security in troubled nations and minimizing conflict in others, the Pentagon's top medical official said yesterday. "Just as good health is an integral part of a person's well-being, a good health sector is vital to a nation's," Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said to an audience at the Global Health Policy Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies here.
Department studies show that diverse and opposing cultural backgrounds and poor human development are key contributors to social unrest, violent conflicts and state failure, Casscells told the group, explaining the Defense Department's global health role.
Poverty, natural disasters, violence, destruction of infrastructure and conflict are fundamental causes of civil strife, poor health and lack of vital services, he said. That can lead to restricted water, food, sanitation and health care access, all of which promote disease, he said.
Therefore, Cascells, said, the military's role is much more sophisticated than security and war, just as global health is much more sophisticated than medicine alone.
When health in a region is poor, "it doesn't mean that you go in and vaccinate people," he said. "You obviously have to go in and try to get the electricity up, the clean water running, the sewage working, the roads. You have to have stability. You have to protect people's lives."
Casscells, an Army Reserve colonel, said he saw all of the previously described scenarios during his tour in Iraq in 2006. He also has first-hand experience with humanitarian relief efforts, having assisted the Gulf Coast region in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
"The long-term outcome of humanitarian activity produces a safer, more secure world," he said. "Security, stability, transition and reconstruction operations [are] intended to enhance infrastructure and improve practices where they didn't exist before. The idea is that by enhancing stability, we will reduce conflict.
"The building part of a soldier's profession is far more important than the breaking part," he continued.
Kathleen Hicks, a senior fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies international security program, said global health and national security are inexorably tied together. Global health initiatives help with overseas populations and can affect nearly every aspect of American safety and prosperity from the stability of foreign governments and populations to the physical well-being of U.S. citizens.
"The United States must have a strategy for global health that's nesting with security elements," Hicks said.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
'Flag Ladies' Embroider Symbols of Presidential Pomp, Power
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - Some dedicated ladies in Philadelphia are using their embroidery skills to construct dozens of colorful ceremonial flags for President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. The 15 embroiderers, known as "the flag ladies," labor at the Defense Logistics Agency's supply center in Philadelphia, where they are busy making 90 new presidential and vice-presidential banners, flag workshop supervisor Diane J. Harris said. Embroidery is the creation of decorative designs through hand or machine needlework.
"It's just rewarding seeing that the president gets what he needs – his flags," said Harris, a 40-year employee of the workshop. Incoming chief executives and vice presidents, she said, get new flags.
The mostly handmade flags are constructed of either blue or white rayon; a blue field for the president and a white one for the vice president, Harris said.
The ceremonial banners use silk thread for fashioning the white stars and red, white, blue, silver, yellow and gold thread for embroidering the presidential coat of arms.
The president's flag, Harris continued, features gold and silver hand-knotted fringe edging, while the vice president's banner gets regular fringe.
It takes two embroiderers 45 days to complete one flag, Harris said.
Several of the new flags, Harris said, will make their debut during Jan. 20 inauguration activities.
The president's and vice president's ceremonial flags likely are the finest of their type in the world, Harris said, due to the amount of hand work involved and the top-notch materials used. The workshop, she added, also makes ceremonial flags for the armed forces.
The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia is the troop-support component of the Defense Logistics Agency, based at Fort Belvoir, Va. The Philadelphia facility provides U.S. troops with food, clothing, textiles, medicines, medical equipment, and construction supplies and equipment. The center also supports United States' humanitarian and disaster relief missions.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - Some dedicated ladies in Philadelphia are using their embroidery skills to construct dozens of colorful ceremonial flags for President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. The 15 embroiderers, known as "the flag ladies," labor at the Defense Logistics Agency's supply center in Philadelphia, where they are busy making 90 new presidential and vice-presidential banners, flag workshop supervisor Diane J. Harris said. Embroidery is the creation of decorative designs through hand or machine needlework.
"It's just rewarding seeing that the president gets what he needs – his flags," said Harris, a 40-year employee of the workshop. Incoming chief executives and vice presidents, she said, get new flags.
The mostly handmade flags are constructed of either blue or white rayon; a blue field for the president and a white one for the vice president, Harris said.
The ceremonial banners use silk thread for fashioning the white stars and red, white, blue, silver, yellow and gold thread for embroidering the presidential coat of arms.
The president's flag, Harris continued, features gold and silver hand-knotted fringe edging, while the vice president's banner gets regular fringe.
It takes two embroiderers 45 days to complete one flag, Harris said.
Several of the new flags, Harris said, will make their debut during Jan. 20 inauguration activities.
The president's and vice president's ceremonial flags likely are the finest of their type in the world, Harris said, due to the amount of hand work involved and the top-notch materials used. The workshop, she added, also makes ceremonial flags for the armed forces.
The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia is the troop-support component of the Defense Logistics Agency, based at Fort Belvoir, Va. The Philadelphia facility provides U.S. troops with food, clothing, textiles, medicines, medical equipment, and construction supplies and equipment. The center also supports United States' humanitarian and disaster relief missions.
MILITARY CONTRACTS January 7, 2009
NAVY
American Science and Engineering, Inc., Billerica, Mass., is being awarded a $67,391,360 firm fixed priced contract for the manufacturing and production of 66 AS&E Z-Backscatter (ZBV) Military Trailers. Work will be performed within the Continental United States, and work is expected to be completed by the end of January 2010. Contract fund will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was sole sourced procured. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-C-5017).
Lockheed Martin MS2 Division, Syracuse, N.Y., is being awarded a $25,795,680 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5201) to exercise an option for upgrade kits for the Navy's AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 Undersea Warfare System. The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 is a surface ship combat system with the capabilities to search, detect, classify, localize and track undersea contacts; and to engage and evade submarines, mine-like small objects, and torpedo threats. Work will be performed in Lemont Furnace, Pa. (50 percent); Syracuse, N.Y. (25 percent) and Eagan, Minn. (25 percent) and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
CCI, Inc.*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded $6,518,549 for firm fixed price task order #0133 under the previously awarded Facilities Maintenance Job Order Contract (N62472-05-D-7510) for the construction of Dry Dock #3 Propulsor Work Enclosure with a high bay fixed roof and service platform at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Work will be performed in Kittery, Maine, and is expected to be completed by November 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One (1) proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
Progeny Systems Corp.,*, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $9,911,963 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-6297) to provide system development, integration, test and operator training for the Acoustic AN/WSQ-9 System, Intercept and Ranging (AI&R) Systems, Archival Media Center (AMC) kits and Swinger Kits systems and spares. The contractor will continue to develop innovative techniques for Combat System (SIM/STIM) Simulation/Stimulation software to allow the interface with new types of targets. This contract modification includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $21,834,293. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and is expected to be completed by October 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY
Sparta Inc., Lakeforest, Calif., is being awarded a $8,603,617 cost plus fixed fee contract for the first phase of the National Cyber Range program. A total of seven awards are planned for the National Cyber Range program. Work will be performed in Columbia, Md. (31 percent), Bethesda, Md. (21 percent), Marina del Ray, Calif. (9 percent), Johnstown, Pa. (7 percent), Landover, Md. (6 percent), Los Altos, Calif. (5 percent), Huntsville, Ala. (4 percent), Philadelphia, Pa. (3 percent), La Jolla, Calif. (2 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah (2 percent), North Chelmsford, Mass. (2 percent), Hunt Valley, Md. (2 percent), Berkeley, Calif. (2 percent), Washington, D.C. (1 percent), Herndon, Va. (1 percent), University Park, Pa. (1 percent), and Lawrence, Kansas (1 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2009. Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on May 5, 2008, and 12 proposals were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-C-0039).
Johns Hopkins University Advanced Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Md., is being awarded a $7,336,805 cost plus fixed fee contract for the first phase of the National Cyber Range program. A total of seven awards are planned for the National Cyber Range program. Work will be performed in Laurel, Md. (41 percent), Cambridge, Mass. (33 percent), Albuquerque, N.M. (7 percent), Columbia, Md. (5 percent), Idaho Falls, Idaho (5 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah (1 percent), Bethesda, Md. (3 percent), North Chelmsford, Mass. (3 percent), and Northport, N.Y. (2 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2009. Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on May 5, 2008, and 12 proposals were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-C-0038).
American Science and Engineering, Inc., Billerica, Mass., is being awarded a $67,391,360 firm fixed priced contract for the manufacturing and production of 66 AS&E Z-Backscatter (ZBV) Military Trailers. Work will be performed within the Continental United States, and work is expected to be completed by the end of January 2010. Contract fund will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was sole sourced procured. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-C-5017).
Lockheed Martin MS2 Division, Syracuse, N.Y., is being awarded a $25,795,680 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5201) to exercise an option for upgrade kits for the Navy's AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 Undersea Warfare System. The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 is a surface ship combat system with the capabilities to search, detect, classify, localize and track undersea contacts; and to engage and evade submarines, mine-like small objects, and torpedo threats. Work will be performed in Lemont Furnace, Pa. (50 percent); Syracuse, N.Y. (25 percent) and Eagan, Minn. (25 percent) and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
CCI, Inc.*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded $6,518,549 for firm fixed price task order #0133 under the previously awarded Facilities Maintenance Job Order Contract (N62472-05-D-7510) for the construction of Dry Dock #3 Propulsor Work Enclosure with a high bay fixed roof and service platform at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Work will be performed in Kittery, Maine, and is expected to be completed by November 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One (1) proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity.
Progeny Systems Corp.,*, Manassas, Va., is being awarded a $9,911,963 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-08-C-6297) to provide system development, integration, test and operator training for the Acoustic AN/WSQ-9 System, Intercept and Ranging (AI&R) Systems, Archival Media Center (AMC) kits and Swinger Kits systems and spares. The contractor will continue to develop innovative techniques for Combat System (SIM/STIM) Simulation/Stimulation software to allow the interface with new types of targets. This contract modification includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $21,834,293. Work will be performed in Manassas, Va., and is expected to be completed by October 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY
Sparta Inc., Lakeforest, Calif., is being awarded a $8,603,617 cost plus fixed fee contract for the first phase of the National Cyber Range program. A total of seven awards are planned for the National Cyber Range program. Work will be performed in Columbia, Md. (31 percent), Bethesda, Md. (21 percent), Marina del Ray, Calif. (9 percent), Johnstown, Pa. (7 percent), Landover, Md. (6 percent), Los Altos, Calif. (5 percent), Huntsville, Ala. (4 percent), Philadelphia, Pa. (3 percent), La Jolla, Calif. (2 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah (2 percent), North Chelmsford, Mass. (2 percent), Hunt Valley, Md. (2 percent), Berkeley, Calif. (2 percent), Washington, D.C. (1 percent), Herndon, Va. (1 percent), University Park, Pa. (1 percent), and Lawrence, Kansas (1 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2009. Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on May 5, 2008, and 12 proposals were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-C-0039).
Johns Hopkins University Advanced Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Md., is being awarded a $7,336,805 cost plus fixed fee contract for the first phase of the National Cyber Range program. A total of seven awards are planned for the National Cyber Range program. Work will be performed in Laurel, Md. (41 percent), Cambridge, Mass. (33 percent), Albuquerque, N.M. (7 percent), Columbia, Md. (5 percent), Idaho Falls, Idaho (5 percent), Salt Lake City, Utah (1 percent), Bethesda, Md. (3 percent), North Chelmsford, Mass. (3 percent), and Northport, N.Y. (2 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2009. Funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. DARPA issued a solicitation in Federal Business Opportunities on May 5, 2008, and 12 proposals were received. The contracting activity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Arlington, Va. (HR0011-09-C-0038).
Soldiers Bolster U.S. Bobsled Team for World Championships
By Tim Hipps
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - Several soldiers have bolstered the U.S. Bobsled Team for the 2009 World Championships, scheduled for Feb. 20 through March 1 in Lake Placid, N.Y. Army Pfc. John Napier, a bobsledder in the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, teamed with Cory Butner of Yucaipa, Calif., to win the two-man title in the 2009 U.S. Bobsled National Championships Jan. 3 and 4 at the Olympic Sports Complex in Lake Placid.
Napier, 22, of Lake Placid, drove the sled to a four-heat cumulative time of 3 minutes, 45.87 seconds over two days to win the national two-man crown by .30 of a second. He will also compete for the four-man national title Jan. 10 and 11 on his hometown track.
"I was racing against a fierce field of competitors," Napier said. "I only had a tenth-of-a-second lead yesterday, and anything can happen in this sport. I don't take anything for granted, and I knew I had to put down my best runs today to stay in the lead."
Sgt. Mike Kohn, 36, a former WCAP bobsledder who is now a member of the National Guard Outstanding Athlete Program, finished second in the two-man national championships with a time of 3:46.17.
Former WCAP bobsledder Steven Holcomb, winner of the 2007 Two-man World Cup title, teamed with Curt Tomasevicz to finish third in 3:46.57 in Lake Placid with borrowed equipment. Holcomb was awaiting delivery of his sled from Europe, where he positioned himself third in the early-season World Cup standings.
"It's tough not having your own equipment," Holcomb said. "The runners I'm borrowing are nicknamed 'warms,' and they aren't intended for cold ice. On a day like today, where temperatures are flirting with the negative numbers, it's hard to keep the sled straight."
Holcomb, 28, a native of Park City, Utah, who served seven years in the Army National Guard, received joined the World Championships by virtue of his third-place finish in the combined world rankings last season.
Kohn and Holcomb will compete in different sleds from Napier's in the four-man national championships.
"It would have been nice to have had my own helmet and sled, but it's another day of racing," Holcomb said. "I can't take anything away from these guys, because they're sliding well. I'm top three in the world, and these guys are right there with me today, which is testament to the U.S. program."
"It's exciting to see a tight competition like this," said Darrin Steele, chief executive officer of the U.S. Bobsled Federation. "For us to see American-made sleds that are the best in the world out here competing in the national championships is great. We'll be entering six competitive sleds this February."
Former WCAP bobsledder Shauna Rohbock, 31, a member of the Utah Army National Guard from Park City, pilots the Team USA 1 women's sled on the World Cup circuit and is scheduled to compete in the upcoming World Championships as well.
Rohbock teamed with Valerie Fleming to win a silver medal in the two-woman bobsled event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. She also won bronze medals at the 2005 and 2007 World Championships.
(Tim Hipps works in the public affairs office of the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - Several soldiers have bolstered the U.S. Bobsled Team for the 2009 World Championships, scheduled for Feb. 20 through March 1 in Lake Placid, N.Y. Army Pfc. John Napier, a bobsledder in the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, teamed with Cory Butner of Yucaipa, Calif., to win the two-man title in the 2009 U.S. Bobsled National Championships Jan. 3 and 4 at the Olympic Sports Complex in Lake Placid.
Napier, 22, of Lake Placid, drove the sled to a four-heat cumulative time of 3 minutes, 45.87 seconds over two days to win the national two-man crown by .30 of a second. He will also compete for the four-man national title Jan. 10 and 11 on his hometown track.
"I was racing against a fierce field of competitors," Napier said. "I only had a tenth-of-a-second lead yesterday, and anything can happen in this sport. I don't take anything for granted, and I knew I had to put down my best runs today to stay in the lead."
Sgt. Mike Kohn, 36, a former WCAP bobsledder who is now a member of the National Guard Outstanding Athlete Program, finished second in the two-man national championships with a time of 3:46.17.
Former WCAP bobsledder Steven Holcomb, winner of the 2007 Two-man World Cup title, teamed with Curt Tomasevicz to finish third in 3:46.57 in Lake Placid with borrowed equipment. Holcomb was awaiting delivery of his sled from Europe, where he positioned himself third in the early-season World Cup standings.
"It's tough not having your own equipment," Holcomb said. "The runners I'm borrowing are nicknamed 'warms,' and they aren't intended for cold ice. On a day like today, where temperatures are flirting with the negative numbers, it's hard to keep the sled straight."
Holcomb, 28, a native of Park City, Utah, who served seven years in the Army National Guard, received joined the World Championships by virtue of his third-place finish in the combined world rankings last season.
Kohn and Holcomb will compete in different sleds from Napier's in the four-man national championships.
"It would have been nice to have had my own helmet and sled, but it's another day of racing," Holcomb said. "I can't take anything away from these guys, because they're sliding well. I'm top three in the world, and these guys are right there with me today, which is testament to the U.S. program."
"It's exciting to see a tight competition like this," said Darrin Steele, chief executive officer of the U.S. Bobsled Federation. "For us to see American-made sleds that are the best in the world out here competing in the national championships is great. We'll be entering six competitive sleds this February."
Former WCAP bobsledder Shauna Rohbock, 31, a member of the Utah Army National Guard from Park City, pilots the Team USA 1 women's sled on the World Cup circuit and is scheduled to compete in the upcoming World Championships as well.
Rohbock teamed with Valerie Fleming to win a silver medal in the two-woman bobsled event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. She also won bronze medals at the 2005 and 2007 World Championships.
(Tim Hipps works in the public affairs office of the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command.)
Air Force Band Prepares for Historic Inaugural Parade Mission
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - "Welcome to one of the greatest moments of your career." With those words, Air Force Col. Dennis M. Layendecker, commander, music director and conductor for the U.S. Air Force Band, impressed on his airmen the importance of their upcoming mission supporting the presidential inauguration.
"This is a historic moment for our country," Layendecker told the musicians, assembled nine across and 11 deep in the 459th Air Refueling Wing's Hangar 11 for a 6 a.m. rehearsal session.
"It's a great example to the world of what it means to have a peaceful transition of power," he said.
The Air Force Band will join the other military service bands to march from the U.S. Capitol to the White House during President-elect Barack Obama's inaugural parade Jan. 20, said Air Force Capt. Christopher Moore of the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee.
The U.S. Army Band, known as "Pershing's Own," will go first along the 1.5-mile parade route as part of the presidential escort formation. The Army Field Band also will march in what organizers refer to as the first "division," or segment, of the parade.
"The President's Own" U.S. Marine Corps Band will be on stage at the Capitol for the swearing-in ceremony, then march down Pennsylvania Avenue as part of the second parade division. The U.S. Navy Band will follow in the third division.
As the youngest of the premier military bands, with a heritage dating to 1941, the U.S. Air Force Band will march in the fourth division.
"The way we see it, they're saving the best for last," Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Elizabeth Schouten, the band's superintendent, said with a smile.
Each service band will have 99 musicians, a number reserved only for inaugural parades and state funeral processions. "That's a b-i-i-i-g band," two to four times the usual size, Layendecker said. "Directing it is kind of like steering an aircraft carrier."
Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Edward Teleky, the band's drum major, will wave his huge, ceremonial baton, or 'mace,' high as he leads the Air Force Band down Pennsylvania Avenue. Layendecker and his command element will go next, followed by the trombones, French horns, trumpets, percussions and wind players. The tubas will hold up the rear.
They'll march at 100 steps a minute, a bit slower than their typical 120-step march tempo.
Schouten estimated that, at that pace, the band will go through eight or nine iterations of the three songs it will play: John Philip Sousa's "The Washington Post" march, "In Place Soundoff: Into Trombones Triumphant," and "The Air Force Song."
As they approach the review stand, the band will burst into a rendition of "Hail to the Chief."
Schouten expressed hope that they'll reach the stand before night settles over the Washington skyline. She has a good sense of what to expect on Jan. 20. She's marched in six inaugural parades -- through rain, snow, slush, below-zero temperatures and blustery wind gusts – since following her childhood dream and joining the Air Force Band.
During President Bill Clinton's second inauguration, she and her fellow band members marched behind miniature ponies and elephants, which left unexpected "debris" in their wake along the parade route.
"You have to stay in formation, whatever happens," Schouten said with a laugh. "Some of the band members had to get rid of their shoes after that parade."
Formation "is everything" when marching in the Air Force Band, Schouten explained.
After all, Layendecker said, "the whole world will be watching as we render our first salute to our commander in chief."
Teleky, preparing for his sixth inaugural parade, appeared undaunted by the prospect of millions of spectators in Washington and billions more via TV.
"We're going to come in, do our mission and complete our mission, regardless of how many people there are," he said. "And when we do, we will be representing our U.S. military. It's an honor to be able to do that to billions of people around the globe."
With that in mind, the band's command group moved through the formation during today's rehearsal to ensure no detail went overlooked. They followed along as the group moved outside into the pouring rain to march in formation across the tarmac.
"We try to be as perfect as humanly possible," Schouter said. "After all, the public hears with their eyes. When they see us, we want to be sure that we are representing the excellence of the men and women of the Air Force."
Air Force Tech Sgt. Benjamin Bowers, a clarinetist looking forward to his first inaugural parade, said Jan. 20 will be a high point in a three-year Air Force career already punctuated with many high points.
"We play for a lot of important functions, but this is as important as it gets," he said. "It's amazing to be part of such a historical event. I feel lucky to represent the Air Force and airmen around the world."
Despite her vast inaugural experience, Schouten said, she's looking forward to the upcoming inauguration with the same enthusiasm she felt during her first, President Ronald Reagan's first inauguration in 1981.
"What a wonderful opportunity this is to be a part of our nation's celebration and to celebrate our way of life," she said. "This will be a grand demonstration of support for our newest commander in chief. I'm so glad to be part of this historic moment, and of this band."
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - "Welcome to one of the greatest moments of your career." With those words, Air Force Col. Dennis M. Layendecker, commander, music director and conductor for the U.S. Air Force Band, impressed on his airmen the importance of their upcoming mission supporting the presidential inauguration.
"This is a historic moment for our country," Layendecker told the musicians, assembled nine across and 11 deep in the 459th Air Refueling Wing's Hangar 11 for a 6 a.m. rehearsal session.
"It's a great example to the world of what it means to have a peaceful transition of power," he said.
The Air Force Band will join the other military service bands to march from the U.S. Capitol to the White House during President-elect Barack Obama's inaugural parade Jan. 20, said Air Force Capt. Christopher Moore of the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee.
The U.S. Army Band, known as "Pershing's Own," will go first along the 1.5-mile parade route as part of the presidential escort formation. The Army Field Band also will march in what organizers refer to as the first "division," or segment, of the parade.
"The President's Own" U.S. Marine Corps Band will be on stage at the Capitol for the swearing-in ceremony, then march down Pennsylvania Avenue as part of the second parade division. The U.S. Navy Band will follow in the third division.
As the youngest of the premier military bands, with a heritage dating to 1941, the U.S. Air Force Band will march in the fourth division.
"The way we see it, they're saving the best for last," Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Elizabeth Schouten, the band's superintendent, said with a smile.
Each service band will have 99 musicians, a number reserved only for inaugural parades and state funeral processions. "That's a b-i-i-i-g band," two to four times the usual size, Layendecker said. "Directing it is kind of like steering an aircraft carrier."
Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Edward Teleky, the band's drum major, will wave his huge, ceremonial baton, or 'mace,' high as he leads the Air Force Band down Pennsylvania Avenue. Layendecker and his command element will go next, followed by the trombones, French horns, trumpets, percussions and wind players. The tubas will hold up the rear.
They'll march at 100 steps a minute, a bit slower than their typical 120-step march tempo.
Schouten estimated that, at that pace, the band will go through eight or nine iterations of the three songs it will play: John Philip Sousa's "The Washington Post" march, "In Place Soundoff: Into Trombones Triumphant," and "The Air Force Song."
As they approach the review stand, the band will burst into a rendition of "Hail to the Chief."
Schouten expressed hope that they'll reach the stand before night settles over the Washington skyline. She has a good sense of what to expect on Jan. 20. She's marched in six inaugural parades -- through rain, snow, slush, below-zero temperatures and blustery wind gusts – since following her childhood dream and joining the Air Force Band.
During President Bill Clinton's second inauguration, she and her fellow band members marched behind miniature ponies and elephants, which left unexpected "debris" in their wake along the parade route.
"You have to stay in formation, whatever happens," Schouten said with a laugh. "Some of the band members had to get rid of their shoes after that parade."
Formation "is everything" when marching in the Air Force Band, Schouten explained.
After all, Layendecker said, "the whole world will be watching as we render our first salute to our commander in chief."
Teleky, preparing for his sixth inaugural parade, appeared undaunted by the prospect of millions of spectators in Washington and billions more via TV.
"We're going to come in, do our mission and complete our mission, regardless of how many people there are," he said. "And when we do, we will be representing our U.S. military. It's an honor to be able to do that to billions of people around the globe."
With that in mind, the band's command group moved through the formation during today's rehearsal to ensure no detail went overlooked. They followed along as the group moved outside into the pouring rain to march in formation across the tarmac.
"We try to be as perfect as humanly possible," Schouter said. "After all, the public hears with their eyes. When they see us, we want to be sure that we are representing the excellence of the men and women of the Air Force."
Air Force Tech Sgt. Benjamin Bowers, a clarinetist looking forward to his first inaugural parade, said Jan. 20 will be a high point in a three-year Air Force career already punctuated with many high points.
"We play for a lot of important functions, but this is as important as it gets," he said. "It's amazing to be part of such a historical event. I feel lucky to represent the Air Force and airmen around the world."
Despite her vast inaugural experience, Schouten said, she's looking forward to the upcoming inauguration with the same enthusiasm she felt during her first, President Ronald Reagan's first inauguration in 1981.
"What a wonderful opportunity this is to be a part of our nation's celebration and to celebrate our way of life," she said. "This will be a grand demonstration of support for our newest commander in chief. I'm so glad to be part of this historic moment, and of this band."
Louisiana Begins Reconstruction of National Guard Landmark
By Army Sgt. Michael L. Owens and Army Sgt. Beyonka D. Joseph
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - A massive reconstruction of the historic Louisiana National Guard headquarters is under way and inching closer to its projected completion date of January 2010. Jackson Barracks, built in the mid-1830s, was heavily damaged by flood waters after Hurricane Katrina devastated the area three years ago.
Army Lt. Col. Danny P. Bordelon, commander of the 527th Engineer Battalion, is in charge of all of the state Guard's construction projects south of Baton Rouge. He explained that having 16 buildings under six different contracts for the $200 million project will speed construction.
Once the project is complete, about 700 Guard members will work here during the week and an additional 3,500 soldiers and airmen will drill here on weekends, Army Maj. Gen. Hunt B. Downer, Louisiana's assistant adjutant general, said. "The increase in personnel will have almost a $110 million impact on the economy in this area," he noted.
Some of the buildings will serve as new offices for the Joint Forces Headquarters and the historic 1st Battalion, 141st Field Artillery Regiment.
Most of the units that will relocate to Jackson Barracks currently work in other armories around the state.
"With the progress that we are making, I am confident that this project will be completed on time or maybe ahead of our deadline," said Ronald P. Dufore, a project superintendent for Gibbs Construction.
Though most of the buildings are standing tall, tasks such as the installation of sod, concrete walks and the buildings' interiors are being finalized.
"Since New Orleans is my hometown, it will be awesome to be closer to my family," said Army 1st Lt. Lance T. Cagnolatti, whose job was relocated to Carville, La., after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. "I cannot wait to see the impact that Jackson Barracks will have on the economy and the creation of new jobs."
Jackson Barracks is located in the Lower 9th Ward at the Orleans and St. Bernard Parish line and is the headquarters for Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department.
The installation, which will include up-to-date multi-purpose readiness centers, has the largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings in the United States and was originally a supply and medical point for troops after the War of 1812.
Originally known as New Orleans Barracks, it was renamed in 1866 in honor of Andrew Jackson, who first advocated a U.S. military base in the area.
(Sgt. Michael L. Owens and Sgt. Beyonka D. Joseph serve in the Louisiana Army National Guard public affairs office.)
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - A massive reconstruction of the historic Louisiana National Guard headquarters is under way and inching closer to its projected completion date of January 2010. Jackson Barracks, built in the mid-1830s, was heavily damaged by flood waters after Hurricane Katrina devastated the area three years ago.
Army Lt. Col. Danny P. Bordelon, commander of the 527th Engineer Battalion, is in charge of all of the state Guard's construction projects south of Baton Rouge. He explained that having 16 buildings under six different contracts for the $200 million project will speed construction.
Once the project is complete, about 700 Guard members will work here during the week and an additional 3,500 soldiers and airmen will drill here on weekends, Army Maj. Gen. Hunt B. Downer, Louisiana's assistant adjutant general, said. "The increase in personnel will have almost a $110 million impact on the economy in this area," he noted.
Some of the buildings will serve as new offices for the Joint Forces Headquarters and the historic 1st Battalion, 141st Field Artillery Regiment.
Most of the units that will relocate to Jackson Barracks currently work in other armories around the state.
"With the progress that we are making, I am confident that this project will be completed on time or maybe ahead of our deadline," said Ronald P. Dufore, a project superintendent for Gibbs Construction.
Though most of the buildings are standing tall, tasks such as the installation of sod, concrete walks and the buildings' interiors are being finalized.
"Since New Orleans is my hometown, it will be awesome to be closer to my family," said Army 1st Lt. Lance T. Cagnolatti, whose job was relocated to Carville, La., after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. "I cannot wait to see the impact that Jackson Barracks will have on the economy and the creation of new jobs."
Jackson Barracks is located in the Lower 9th Ward at the Orleans and St. Bernard Parish line and is the headquarters for Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Military Department.
The installation, which will include up-to-date multi-purpose readiness centers, has the largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings in the United States and was originally a supply and medical point for troops after the War of 1812.
Originally known as New Orleans Barracks, it was renamed in 1866 in honor of Andrew Jackson, who first advocated a U.S. military base in the area.
(Sgt. Michael L. Owens and Sgt. Beyonka D. Joseph serve in the Louisiana Army National Guard public affairs office.)
Disney, Army Resort Make Vacations More Affordable for Troops
By William Bradner
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - A Disney vacation just got more affordable. With the "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" offer, active and retired U.S. military personnel, including active members of the United States Coast Guard and activated members of the National Guard or Reserves, can enjoy complimentary, multi-day admission into Disney's U.S. theme parks, and additional special ticket offers for family members and friends.
"For so many of the men and women who serve in our U.S. military, time together with their families is cause enough for celebration," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We are grateful for their service and hope 'Disney's Armed Forces Salute' will allow our troops to create wonderful, magical memories with their family and friends."
Shades of Green, a resort hotel on Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla., is open exclusively to servicemembers, retirees, defense civilians, and their families. It is a safe haven for military families whether they're reintegrating after an overseas deployment, having one last "family fling" before mom or dad deploys, or simply getting away for a weekend.
"If I suddenly break down and cry in a Holiday Inn, everyone's going to be looking at me funny," one guest recently explained. "Here, if it suddenly dawns on me he's leaving in a week and I start to cry, I've got 10 people asking how they can help and offering support."
The resort manager, Brian Japak, is a retired soldier, and his son has survived two roadside-bomb attacks while serving in Iraq.
"I have great empathy for the families that we serve here," he said.
Japak said the staff makes every effort to ensure the guests are pampered Disney style -- with just a touch of "home" through the tax-free Army and Air Force Exchange Service shoppette and a Mickey Mouse statue decked out in red, white and blue. Security at the hotel complies with standard base force protection regulations, ensuring the soldiers and families can sleep soundly and not worry about their personal safety.
Shades of Green is an Armed Forces Recreation Center hotel run by the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command based in Alexandria, Va. The command's mission is to provide soldiers and their families with the same quality of life they are sworn to protect. Rates are set on a sliding scale, based on rank, and with no shareholders to answer to or profits to be made, the rates are kept remarkably low.
At the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, from Jan. 4 to Dec. 23, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one free five-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" ticket with "Park Hopper" and water park options. The ticket is valid for five days of admission into the four Walt Disney World theme parks, plus a total of five visits to a choice of a Disney water park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park or certain other attractions.
During this offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel also may make a one-time purchase up to five "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets – good for five days -- for $99 each, plus tax, for family members or friends. Although this ticket for family members and friends does not include either the Park Hopper or Water Park Fun & More options, it can be upgraded to add either such option, or both, for an additional $25, plus tax, per option. All tickets and options are nontransferable and must be used by Dec. 23.
A similar offer is in place at Walt Disney Land in California. More information is available at installation ITT/ITR offices.
AFRCs offer four other world-class destinations for families, including Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch, Germany; Dragon Hill Lodge in Seoul, South Korea; the Hale Koa Hotel in Honolulu, and the Cape Henry Inn and Beach Club at Fort Storey, Va.
(William Bradner works at the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command's public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 7, 2009 - A Disney vacation just got more affordable. With the "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" offer, active and retired U.S. military personnel, including active members of the United States Coast Guard and activated members of the National Guard or Reserves, can enjoy complimentary, multi-day admission into Disney's U.S. theme parks, and additional special ticket offers for family members and friends.
"For so many of the men and women who serve in our U.S. military, time together with their families is cause enough for celebration," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We are grateful for their service and hope 'Disney's Armed Forces Salute' will allow our troops to create wonderful, magical memories with their family and friends."
Shades of Green, a resort hotel on Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla., is open exclusively to servicemembers, retirees, defense civilians, and their families. It is a safe haven for military families whether they're reintegrating after an overseas deployment, having one last "family fling" before mom or dad deploys, or simply getting away for a weekend.
"If I suddenly break down and cry in a Holiday Inn, everyone's going to be looking at me funny," one guest recently explained. "Here, if it suddenly dawns on me he's leaving in a week and I start to cry, I've got 10 people asking how they can help and offering support."
The resort manager, Brian Japak, is a retired soldier, and his son has survived two roadside-bomb attacks while serving in Iraq.
"I have great empathy for the families that we serve here," he said.
Japak said the staff makes every effort to ensure the guests are pampered Disney style -- with just a touch of "home" through the tax-free Army and Air Force Exchange Service shoppette and a Mickey Mouse statue decked out in red, white and blue. Security at the hotel complies with standard base force protection regulations, ensuring the soldiers and families can sleep soundly and not worry about their personal safety.
Shades of Green is an Armed Forces Recreation Center hotel run by the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command based in Alexandria, Va. The command's mission is to provide soldiers and their families with the same quality of life they are sworn to protect. Rates are set on a sliding scale, based on rank, and with no shareholders to answer to or profits to be made, the rates are kept remarkably low.
At the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, from Jan. 4 to Dec. 23, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one free five-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" ticket with "Park Hopper" and water park options. The ticket is valid for five days of admission into the four Walt Disney World theme parks, plus a total of five visits to a choice of a Disney water park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park or certain other attractions.
During this offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel also may make a one-time purchase up to five "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets – good for five days -- for $99 each, plus tax, for family members or friends. Although this ticket for family members and friends does not include either the Park Hopper or Water Park Fun & More options, it can be upgraded to add either such option, or both, for an additional $25, plus tax, per option. All tickets and options are nontransferable and must be used by Dec. 23.
A similar offer is in place at Walt Disney Land in California. More information is available at installation ITT/ITR offices.
AFRCs offer four other world-class destinations for families, including Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch, Germany; Dragon Hill Lodge in Seoul, South Korea; the Hale Koa Hotel in Honolulu, and the Cape Henry Inn and Beach Club at Fort Storey, Va.
(William Bradner works at the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command's public affairs office.)
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Military Books
Military-Writers.com is pleased to announce the addition of these servicemembers to the website:
General Wilbur L. Creech, USAF (ret.)
Colonel Sanford L. Graves, USAF (ret.)
Colonel William Cavenaugh, USMC (ret.)
Lt. Colonel Charles A. Moose, USAF (ret.)
Major Robert J. Girod, Sr., USA
Captain D. Clayton Mayes, USA
Captain George H. Waple, USA (ret.)
Sergeant Michael Volking, USA
Specialist John M. Wills, USA
Corporal Otto J. Moravek, USA
Richard Clason, USN
Jack Muller, USN
Michael Egerbt, USN
Kendall J. Matthews, USMC
Terry G. Hillard, USMC
Charles D. Hayes, USMC
Brent Walker, USMC
Robert Ruble, USMC
Robert Downey, USAF
Joe Tip Thomas, USAF
Kim Thomas, USA
Randy Jurgensen, USA
Francis J. Connelly, USA
Alex H. Richardson, USA
Sargei Hoteko, USA
Don E. Lucier, USA
Joseph Reass, USA
Brian E. Voncannon, USA
Ralph W. Landre, Jr., USA
Richard Reed, USA
Michael A. Black, USA
Ruben Benjamin Whittington, USA
The Website now lists 747 servicemembers and their 2414
MORE INFORMATION
Military Books
This information was sponsored by LAPD information online.
General Wilbur L. Creech, USAF (ret.)
Colonel Sanford L. Graves, USAF (ret.)
Colonel William Cavenaugh, USMC (ret.)
Lt. Colonel Charles A. Moose, USAF (ret.)
Major Robert J. Girod, Sr., USA
Captain D. Clayton Mayes, USA
Captain George H. Waple, USA (ret.)
Sergeant Michael Volking, USA
Specialist John M. Wills, USA
Corporal Otto J. Moravek, USA
Richard Clason, USN
Jack Muller, USN
Michael Egerbt, USN
Kendall J. Matthews, USMC
Terry G. Hillard, USMC
Charles D. Hayes, USMC
Brent Walker, USMC
Robert Ruble, USMC
Robert Downey, USAF
Joe Tip Thomas, USAF
Kim Thomas, USA
Randy Jurgensen, USA
Francis J. Connelly, USA
Alex H. Richardson, USA
Sargei Hoteko, USA
Don E. Lucier, USA
Joseph Reass, USA
Brian E. Voncannon, USA
Ralph W. Landre, Jr., USA
Richard Reed, USA
Michael A. Black, USA
Ruben Benjamin Whittington, USA
The Website now lists 747 servicemembers and their 2414
MORE INFORMATION
Military Books
This information was sponsored by LAPD information online.
Africom to Airlift Peacekeeper Equipment to Darfur
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - U.S. Africa Command is laying plans to airlift heavy equipment to Sudan to support African Union and U.N. peacekeepers involved in the country's Darfur region, an Africom spokesman told American Forces Press Service today. Africom will transport about 75 tons of heavy equipment -- water tankers, fuel tank trucks, forklifts and other oversized cargo – from Kigali, Rwanda, to Darfur aboard two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, Vince Crawley said.
President George W. Bush announced the decision yesterday after meeting at the White House with Sudanese First Vice President Salva Kiir, a former south Sudanese rebel leader.
"I have provided a waiver to the State Department so they can begin to move 240 containers worth of heavy equipment into Darfur, and that the Defense Department will be flying Rwandan equipment into Darfur to help facilitate the peacekeeping missions there," Bush said.
Bush sent a Jan. 1 memo to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice authorizing the airlift mission without reimbursement from the United Nations. He called the mission "important to the security interests of the United States."
The president also waived the standard 15-day congressional notification requirements to allow the airlift assistance to proceed immediately, "because failing to do so would pose a substantial risk to human health and welfare," National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley said in a statement released yesterday.
Hadley said the mission will help African Union and U.N. peacekeepers protect civilian lives and improve the safe and effective delivery of lifesaving humanitarian aid to areas of western Darfur currently inaccessible due to security concerns.
The exact date of the missions has not been determined, but Crawley said he expects them to take place "within the next several weeks." Africom, like U.S. Central Command, has no aircraft of its own, so the C-17s will come from another command, he said.
Crawley noted that the U.S. military has provided peacekeeper training in Africa for more than a decade and first transported troops and cargo in support of the mission in Darfur in 2004. The last mission, the fourth, was in October 2007.
The upcoming airlift mission represents the first large-scale peacekeeper support mission for Africom since it became fully operational Oct. 1. Previous support missions were conducted under the direction of U.S. European Command, which had responsibility for Africa before Africom's standup.
"The U.S. military has been working in Africa for a number of years now," Crawley said. "Africom wants to add value to what the U.S. military has been doing."
Africom plans to incorporate its new ADAPT – Africa Deployment Assistance Phased Training – initiative into the mission, Crawley said. This effort aims to teach militaries the logistical skills required to deploy in support of peacekeeping missions. The ADAPT initiative was first used last summer in transporting peacekeepers into Somalia from Uganda, he said.
By taking over and building on missions such as peacekeeper support in Darfur, Africom officials hope to "help Africans build the long-term security capacity that they are eager to have," Crawley said.
Hadley said the United States will continue working closely with the U.N. to ensure peacekeepers not only are deployed, but also are trained and equipped to carry out their mandate.
"The United States will continue to lead the international community to stand by the people of Darfur and to deploy and support the U.N. peacekeeping operation," he said.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - U.S. Africa Command is laying plans to airlift heavy equipment to Sudan to support African Union and U.N. peacekeepers involved in the country's Darfur region, an Africom spokesman told American Forces Press Service today. Africom will transport about 75 tons of heavy equipment -- water tankers, fuel tank trucks, forklifts and other oversized cargo – from Kigali, Rwanda, to Darfur aboard two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, Vince Crawley said.
President George W. Bush announced the decision yesterday after meeting at the White House with Sudanese First Vice President Salva Kiir, a former south Sudanese rebel leader.
"I have provided a waiver to the State Department so they can begin to move 240 containers worth of heavy equipment into Darfur, and that the Defense Department will be flying Rwandan equipment into Darfur to help facilitate the peacekeeping missions there," Bush said.
Bush sent a Jan. 1 memo to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice authorizing the airlift mission without reimbursement from the United Nations. He called the mission "important to the security interests of the United States."
The president also waived the standard 15-day congressional notification requirements to allow the airlift assistance to proceed immediately, "because failing to do so would pose a substantial risk to human health and welfare," National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley said in a statement released yesterday.
Hadley said the mission will help African Union and U.N. peacekeepers protect civilian lives and improve the safe and effective delivery of lifesaving humanitarian aid to areas of western Darfur currently inaccessible due to security concerns.
The exact date of the missions has not been determined, but Crawley said he expects them to take place "within the next several weeks." Africom, like U.S. Central Command, has no aircraft of its own, so the C-17s will come from another command, he said.
Crawley noted that the U.S. military has provided peacekeeper training in Africa for more than a decade and first transported troops and cargo in support of the mission in Darfur in 2004. The last mission, the fourth, was in October 2007.
The upcoming airlift mission represents the first large-scale peacekeeper support mission for Africom since it became fully operational Oct. 1. Previous support missions were conducted under the direction of U.S. European Command, which had responsibility for Africa before Africom's standup.
"The U.S. military has been working in Africa for a number of years now," Crawley said. "Africom wants to add value to what the U.S. military has been doing."
Africom plans to incorporate its new ADAPT – Africa Deployment Assistance Phased Training – initiative into the mission, Crawley said. This effort aims to teach militaries the logistical skills required to deploy in support of peacekeeping missions. The ADAPT initiative was first used last summer in transporting peacekeepers into Somalia from Uganda, he said.
By taking over and building on missions such as peacekeeper support in Darfur, Africom officials hope to "help Africans build the long-term security capacity that they are eager to have," Crawley said.
Hadley said the United States will continue working closely with the U.N. to ensure peacekeepers not only are deployed, but also are trained and equipped to carry out their mandate.
"The United States will continue to lead the international community to stand by the people of Darfur and to deploy and support the U.N. peacekeeping operation," he said.
In Final Weeks as Commander in Chief, Bush Cites Military's Valor, Sacrifice
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - With 15 days left in office, President George W. Bush today reflected on a list of "lasts" that includes his final weeks as the commander of U.S. military forces. Bush told the audience at an armed forces farewell ceremony at Fort Myer, Va., that he recently took his final overseas flight on Air Force One and delivered his last college commencement address as president.
"These have all been wonderful experiences," he said. "But nothing compares to the honor of standing before you today and addressing America's armed forces as your commander in chief."
Bush described his role as the top military commander over a two-term legacy marked early on by the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, followed by a broadly defined global war on terror that included the sometimes controversial invasion and ongoing occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq.
The president cited servicemembers' courage in responding to the Sept. 11 attacks that killed some 3,000 people, in the ensuing Operation Enduring Freedom, concentrated mainly in Afghanistan, and in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"I saw your valor in the days after the attack, when Americans crowded into recruiting centers, across our country, raised their hands to serve and pledged to defend our people and our freedom," said Bush, referring to the hijacked airplane attacks in New York, on the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
The president touted the U.S. military's role in toppling the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, in which troops "closed down the terrorist training camps and ... drove the Taliban from power" within weeks of the invasion.
He also praised servicemembers who volunteered for multiple tours in Iraq in support of the 33,000-troop surge launched in early 2007. Bush characterized the surge, which military officials credit as one factor leading to increased security and a drop in violence in Iraq, as "one of the great successes in American military history."
The president said the cause that troops have served "has always been right and just," but he conceded that his decisions as commander in chief have "not always been popular."
Bush acknowledged sacrifices paid by those killed and wounded in battle, and the families who survive and support them. To date, 4,850 Americans have died in post-9/11 operations, and another 15,327 have been wounded without returning to duty.
The president highlighted the story of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor, a Navy SEAL who died in September 2006 in Iraq when he used his body to absorb a grenade blast that likely would have killed two nearby SEALs and several Iraqi soldiers.
In April, Bush presented a posthumous Medal of Honor to Monsoor's parents.
"On that day, I saw the deep sadness that is familiar to anyone who has lost a loved one in the line of duty," Bush said. "But I also saw the pride that comes with such noble sacrifice and the recognition that our freedom and our security only endure because of the acts of bravery like Michael Monsoor's.
"That kind of courage, character and devotion defines our armed forces," he continued. "So this morning, I cannot accept your kind tribute unless I'm allowed to return the favor to the men and women of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and all those who serve in the Department of Defense."
As Bush relinquishes his post as commander in chief, President-elect Barack Obama is slated to take over the role Jan. 20. But a familiar face will remain at the helm of the Pentagon amid the transition.
Bush expressed confidence in Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, whom he appointed to replace former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, and whom the president-elect has retained as Pentagon chief.
"I am pleased that President-elect Obama has asked you to stay on, and I am confident that you will continue to be a strong leader as the secretary of defense," Bush said. He also praised Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for his "strong advice, clear thinking and years of service to our country."
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - With 15 days left in office, President George W. Bush today reflected on a list of "lasts" that includes his final weeks as the commander of U.S. military forces. Bush told the audience at an armed forces farewell ceremony at Fort Myer, Va., that he recently took his final overseas flight on Air Force One and delivered his last college commencement address as president.
"These have all been wonderful experiences," he said. "But nothing compares to the honor of standing before you today and addressing America's armed forces as your commander in chief."
Bush described his role as the top military commander over a two-term legacy marked early on by the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, followed by a broadly defined global war on terror that included the sometimes controversial invasion and ongoing occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq.
The president cited servicemembers' courage in responding to the Sept. 11 attacks that killed some 3,000 people, in the ensuing Operation Enduring Freedom, concentrated mainly in Afghanistan, and in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"I saw your valor in the days after the attack, when Americans crowded into recruiting centers, across our country, raised their hands to serve and pledged to defend our people and our freedom," said Bush, referring to the hijacked airplane attacks in New York, on the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
The president touted the U.S. military's role in toppling the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, in which troops "closed down the terrorist training camps and ... drove the Taliban from power" within weeks of the invasion.
He also praised servicemembers who volunteered for multiple tours in Iraq in support of the 33,000-troop surge launched in early 2007. Bush characterized the surge, which military officials credit as one factor leading to increased security and a drop in violence in Iraq, as "one of the great successes in American military history."
The president said the cause that troops have served "has always been right and just," but he conceded that his decisions as commander in chief have "not always been popular."
Bush acknowledged sacrifices paid by those killed and wounded in battle, and the families who survive and support them. To date, 4,850 Americans have died in post-9/11 operations, and another 15,327 have been wounded without returning to duty.
The president highlighted the story of Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor, a Navy SEAL who died in September 2006 in Iraq when he used his body to absorb a grenade blast that likely would have killed two nearby SEALs and several Iraqi soldiers.
In April, Bush presented a posthumous Medal of Honor to Monsoor's parents.
"On that day, I saw the deep sadness that is familiar to anyone who has lost a loved one in the line of duty," Bush said. "But I also saw the pride that comes with such noble sacrifice and the recognition that our freedom and our security only endure because of the acts of bravery like Michael Monsoor's.
"That kind of courage, character and devotion defines our armed forces," he continued. "So this morning, I cannot accept your kind tribute unless I'm allowed to return the favor to the men and women of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and all those who serve in the Department of Defense."
As Bush relinquishes his post as commander in chief, President-elect Barack Obama is slated to take over the role Jan. 20. But a familiar face will remain at the helm of the Pentagon amid the transition.
Bush expressed confidence in Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, whom he appointed to replace former Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, and whom the president-elect has retained as Pentagon chief.
"I am pleased that President-elect Obama has asked you to stay on, and I am confident that you will continue to be a strong leader as the secretary of defense," Bush said. He also praised Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for his "strong advice, clear thinking and years of service to our country."
Gates, Mullen Thank Bush for Commitment to Troops
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - The top Defense Department leaders honored President George W. Bush today at a farewell ceremony for his deep commitment to the men and women in uniform and their families and the trust he instilled as he led them through challenging times. avy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in praising Bush during the armed forces farewell ceremony at Fort Myer, Va.
"In my 44 years of wearing this uniform, I have never seen the American public and our military as bonded in understanding, purpose and spirit as I do right now," Mullen told Bush. "For this, Mr. President, we owe you our greatest gratitude."
Gates said Bush fostered that close relationship throughout his presidency.
"The president's deep regard and affection for our servicemembers and their families has played out in ways big and small," he said. Gates pointed to examples: "surprise visits to Iraq and Afghanistan to shake hands and high-five [troops], ... personal phone calls to those deployed over Thanksgiving, and even the occasional chest bump to unwary cadets."
As he sent troops into harm's way, Bush never hid from the human consequences of his decisions, Gates said. He made countless visits to wounded warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the National Naval Medical Center and other military hospitals. He and first lady Laura Bush also met with thousands of family members of wounded and fallen troops.
Gates recalled Bush's visit with Army Staff Sgt. Michael McNaughton, a Louisiana National Guardsman being treated at Walter Reed after losing his leg to a land mine in Afghanistan. The president suggested that the two go for a run after McNaughton received his prosthetic leg, and carried through with the plan several months later on a track around the White House's South Lawn.
"A single promise to a single soldier. A small act that reflects President Bush's commitment to care for and honor every member of the armed forces," Gates said.
"Mr. President, every day these volunteers execute your orders with courage and determination – facing down danger for the greater good of America," he continued. "On behalf of more than 2 million men and women in uniform, we are deeply grateful for your leadership and service to America in a time of war."
Mullen thanked the president and Mrs. Bush for embracing the military family, and particularly those who have sacrificed heavily in the war on terror.
"You have proven that how well we care for our wounded and the families of the fallen defines who and what we really are as a nation," he said. "You made it personal, and that has made all the difference."
Some of the most powerful accolades during the ceremony came not from the leaders, but from the troops themselves.
Mullen shared thoughts penned by several deployed servicemembers in a journal he and his wife, Deborah, carried with them during recent troop visits overseas.
"Mr. President, thank you and your family for your service. I am proud to serve under you, sir," wrote Army Staff Sgt. Ward from Queens, N.Y. Like several who signed the journal, he did not include his first name.
"You are awesome, and made a difference in the world," Ward wrote.
Army Lt. Col. Scott Raney, deployed to Baghdad, extended his thanks to Mrs. Bush. "Your class and dignity were an inspiration to us all," he wrote.
The writing of Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Fraser brought levity to the ceremony as he referred to a shoe-throwing incident in Iraq last month.
"Sir, nice to see that our president is still quick on his feet after eight years in office," Fraser wrote, bringing an outburst of laughter as Mullen read it at the ceremony. "Next time, pick up the shoe and throw it back," he continued. "We got your back."
Army Sgt. 1st Class Claude Cory from Waco, Texas, turned the tone serious. "Sir, you truly set the standard to uphold the peace and our very way of life so our kids can grow up in a peaceful world," he wrote. "We will always stand tall, one great nation and one great state, Texas."
Other servicemembers, who signed the journal simply as "Your soldiers," thanked Bush for his "service, example and leadership."
"We have not faltered. We will not fail," the anonymous servicemember continued. "With greatest respect and honor, we serve."
Mullen called the troop messages a sign of the deep mutual respect between Bush and the 2.4 million military men and women, as well as their families.
"Those voices are an answering volley to you for your high regard and great respect for every single man and woman who serves this nation," he said.
Gates presented the president and Mrs. Bush several awards in appreciation of their service. To Bush, he presented the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Army Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service, U.S. Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Air Force Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service, and U.S. Coast Guard Distinguish Public Service Award.
The secretary presented Mrs. Bush the Department of Defense Outstanding Public Service Award.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 6, 2009 - The top Defense Department leaders honored President George W. Bush today at a farewell ceremony for his deep commitment to the men and women in uniform and their families and the trust he instilled as he led them through challenging times. avy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in praising Bush during the armed forces farewell ceremony at Fort Myer, Va.
"In my 44 years of wearing this uniform, I have never seen the American public and our military as bonded in understanding, purpose and spirit as I do right now," Mullen told Bush. "For this, Mr. President, we owe you our greatest gratitude."
Gates said Bush fostered that close relationship throughout his presidency.
"The president's deep regard and affection for our servicemembers and their families has played out in ways big and small," he said. Gates pointed to examples: "surprise visits to Iraq and Afghanistan to shake hands and high-five [troops], ... personal phone calls to those deployed over Thanksgiving, and even the occasional chest bump to unwary cadets."
As he sent troops into harm's way, Bush never hid from the human consequences of his decisions, Gates said. He made countless visits to wounded warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the National Naval Medical Center and other military hospitals. He and first lady Laura Bush also met with thousands of family members of wounded and fallen troops.
Gates recalled Bush's visit with Army Staff Sgt. Michael McNaughton, a Louisiana National Guardsman being treated at Walter Reed after losing his leg to a land mine in Afghanistan. The president suggested that the two go for a run after McNaughton received his prosthetic leg, and carried through with the plan several months later on a track around the White House's South Lawn.
"A single promise to a single soldier. A small act that reflects President Bush's commitment to care for and honor every member of the armed forces," Gates said.
"Mr. President, every day these volunteers execute your orders with courage and determination – facing down danger for the greater good of America," he continued. "On behalf of more than 2 million men and women in uniform, we are deeply grateful for your leadership and service to America in a time of war."
Mullen thanked the president and Mrs. Bush for embracing the military family, and particularly those who have sacrificed heavily in the war on terror.
"You have proven that how well we care for our wounded and the families of the fallen defines who and what we really are as a nation," he said. "You made it personal, and that has made all the difference."
Some of the most powerful accolades during the ceremony came not from the leaders, but from the troops themselves.
Mullen shared thoughts penned by several deployed servicemembers in a journal he and his wife, Deborah, carried with them during recent troop visits overseas.
"Mr. President, thank you and your family for your service. I am proud to serve under you, sir," wrote Army Staff Sgt. Ward from Queens, N.Y. Like several who signed the journal, he did not include his first name.
"You are awesome, and made a difference in the world," Ward wrote.
Army Lt. Col. Scott Raney, deployed to Baghdad, extended his thanks to Mrs. Bush. "Your class and dignity were an inspiration to us all," he wrote.
The writing of Air Force Master Sgt. Michael Fraser brought levity to the ceremony as he referred to a shoe-throwing incident in Iraq last month.
"Sir, nice to see that our president is still quick on his feet after eight years in office," Fraser wrote, bringing an outburst of laughter as Mullen read it at the ceremony. "Next time, pick up the shoe and throw it back," he continued. "We got your back."
Army Sgt. 1st Class Claude Cory from Waco, Texas, turned the tone serious. "Sir, you truly set the standard to uphold the peace and our very way of life so our kids can grow up in a peaceful world," he wrote. "We will always stand tall, one great nation and one great state, Texas."
Other servicemembers, who signed the journal simply as "Your soldiers," thanked Bush for his "service, example and leadership."
"We have not faltered. We will not fail," the anonymous servicemember continued. "With greatest respect and honor, we serve."
Mullen called the troop messages a sign of the deep mutual respect between Bush and the 2.4 million military men and women, as well as their families.
"Those voices are an answering volley to you for your high regard and great respect for every single man and woman who serves this nation," he said.
Gates presented the president and Mrs. Bush several awards in appreciation of their service. To Bush, he presented the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Army Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service, U.S. Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, U.S. Air Force Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service, and U.S. Coast Guard Distinguish Public Service Award.
The secretary presented Mrs. Bush the Department of Defense Outstanding Public Service Award.
MILITARY CONTRACTS January 6, 2008
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Delta Petroleum Products Trading Co., Kasimpasa, Istanbul, Turkey is being awarded a $147,613,857 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel delivery. There are various other locations of performance within Iraq. Using service is Army. The original proposal was Web solicited with seven responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Feb. 28, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-1000).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee, indefinite delivery, requirements contract with Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., Herndon, Va., for $9,656,256. This contract action will provide HQ AMC/A5Q requirements for improved survivability in combat operations. At this time $200,000 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offut Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-03-D-1380).
ARMY
Technologists, Inc., Rosslyn, Va., was awarded on Jan. 5, 2009, a $96,090,519 firm fixed price contract for the construction of an Afghanistan National Police National Training Center. Work will be performed in Maydan Wardak, Afghanistan, and is expected to be completed by Mar. 31, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Oct. 1, 2008, and 13 bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Afghanistan, is the contracting activity (W917PM-09-C-0005).
Delta Petroleum Products Trading Co., Kasimpasa, Istanbul, Turkey is being awarded a $147,613,857 fixed price with economic price adjustment contract for fuel delivery. There are various other locations of performance within Iraq. Using service is Army. The original proposal was Web solicited with seven responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Feb. 28, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-D-1000).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force is awarding a cost plus fixed fee, indefinite delivery, requirements contract with Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc., Herndon, Va., for $9,656,256. This contract action will provide HQ AMC/A5Q requirements for improved survivability in combat operations. At this time $200,000 has been obligated. 55 CONS/LGCD, Offut Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-03-D-1380).
ARMY
Technologists, Inc., Rosslyn, Va., was awarded on Jan. 5, 2009, a $96,090,519 firm fixed price contract for the construction of an Afghanistan National Police National Training Center. Work will be performed in Maydan Wardak, Afghanistan, and is expected to be completed by Mar. 31, 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Web bids were solicited on Oct. 1, 2008, and 13 bids were received. U.S. Army Engineer District, Afghanistan, is the contracting activity (W917PM-09-C-0005).
Monday, January 05, 2009
Face of Defense: Soldier Rejoins After 38-Year Service Break
By Army Sgt. Whitney Houston
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 5, 2009 - Young men and women frequently follow the footsteps of their parents and grandparents by joining the military. Army Maj. (Dr.) Robert Sexton reversed that role when he followed his two sons into the military after a 38-year-break from his previous service. Sexton was an unlikely candidate when he was commissioned in November 2007 in his mid-50s and assigned to serve as a physician with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 425th Civil Affairs Battalion, attached to the 4th Infantry Division here.
Sexton enlisted in the Army at 17 and left his native Cleveland in 1968 for Vietnam, where he would spend the next two years attached to the 101st Airborne Division, working with Korean troops on Army boats that provided transport, insertion and evacuation.
Sexton was honorably discharged at 20 and returned home only to become disillusioned with the social upheaval happening in the United States. He and his wife decided to move to her native country of Guatemala.
Sexton worked multiple jobs to support his family in Central America, but eventually decided to realize his desires and go to medical school in Guatemala.
"I had always thought about medical school, but because we were just married and right out of the Army and we had two kids, I had to work two and three jobs all of the time – landscaping, painting houses. There just was no time for studies," Sexton said. "But it had always stuck in the back of my mind, and I don't know why, but we visited a medical school down in Guatemala, and they had an open-door policy."
Sexton said he didn't think he would make it through that first year of medical school because of the language barrier. However, he said, because medical terminology is pretty much the same in every language, especially with the basic sciences, he passed even as his class of more than 1,200 first-year students was thinned to 120.
Sexton finished medical school in Guatemala and gained his residency. He planned on staying there and starting a practice. However, when violence and turmoil spread there, he relocated his family back to the United States in 1981.
Sexton regained his residency and was licensed to practice medicine in several states. Eventually, he ended up in Tucson, Ariz., where he practiced as a neonatologist, a doctor who works in intensive care for newborn babies, and started a private emergency medical practice with a close friend.
Nearly two decades later, Sexton and his family began a transformation of sorts as two of his sons joined the Marine Corps, both at 17.
Their decisions to join the Marines surprised and moved Sexton, he said, because they never talked about the military at home and he thought his children would get through high school and then go on to college. He began to feel the tug of inspiration.
Sexton's third son, who had joined in 1997, was due to get out of the Marines in 2003, but chose to re-enlist. "He insisted on going to Iraq, so he extended himself and went into Iraq on the first wave," he said.
"My two sons inspired me," he said. "Then, two years later, after reading what the Army had done over there, I got more and more inspired with everything I read."
Concluding that the fight against terrorism would be a long one, and feeling he could still make a contribution, Sexton accepted a commission to the Army in November 2007 and has been serving as a doctor in Baghdad since October.
"I figured we have less than 1 percent of the American people in the service, and some of those people are going to need a break sometime - and that's what I aim to do. I'm still physically fit. I thought I could make a contribution," Sexton said.
Sexton's decision to rejoin the Army after a 38-year break in service leaves him little possibility of earning a military retirement because of his age. Still, he said, he derives satisfaction from making a contribution to a noble cause – working with Iraqi forces to bring medical care and training to needy areas in Baghdad.
"He blows us away. He's pushing 60, and he's more physically fit than some of the younger guys here," said Army 1st Sgt. George Guerra, the battalion's senior enlisted leader. "We hardly ever see him because he's always gone doing these combined medical engagements. He's really into his work, and he loves it. He just wants to get out and do this work with the Iraqi people."
Sexton said he finds great satisfaction helping Iraqis by providing them with needed medical care, and he expressed a desire when his tour is over to go to other places with the Army where he can continue his work.
"I'll be going to Afghanistan next year with my old unit," Sexton said. "After Afghanistan, I would like to go to the Horn of Africa, because that's where I think civil affairs probably shines the most. I would like to do tours in Central and South America because of the language, and I wouldn't mind going to the Philippines."
(Sgt. Whitney Houston serves in the Multinational Division Baghdad public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 5, 2009 - Young men and women frequently follow the footsteps of their parents and grandparents by joining the military. Army Maj. (Dr.) Robert Sexton reversed that role when he followed his two sons into the military after a 38-year-break from his previous service. Sexton was an unlikely candidate when he was commissioned in November 2007 in his mid-50s and assigned to serve as a physician with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 425th Civil Affairs Battalion, attached to the 4th Infantry Division here.
Sexton enlisted in the Army at 17 and left his native Cleveland in 1968 for Vietnam, where he would spend the next two years attached to the 101st Airborne Division, working with Korean troops on Army boats that provided transport, insertion and evacuation.
Sexton was honorably discharged at 20 and returned home only to become disillusioned with the social upheaval happening in the United States. He and his wife decided to move to her native country of Guatemala.
Sexton worked multiple jobs to support his family in Central America, but eventually decided to realize his desires and go to medical school in Guatemala.
"I had always thought about medical school, but because we were just married and right out of the Army and we had two kids, I had to work two and three jobs all of the time – landscaping, painting houses. There just was no time for studies," Sexton said. "But it had always stuck in the back of my mind, and I don't know why, but we visited a medical school down in Guatemala, and they had an open-door policy."
Sexton said he didn't think he would make it through that first year of medical school because of the language barrier. However, he said, because medical terminology is pretty much the same in every language, especially with the basic sciences, he passed even as his class of more than 1,200 first-year students was thinned to 120.
Sexton finished medical school in Guatemala and gained his residency. He planned on staying there and starting a practice. However, when violence and turmoil spread there, he relocated his family back to the United States in 1981.
Sexton regained his residency and was licensed to practice medicine in several states. Eventually, he ended up in Tucson, Ariz., where he practiced as a neonatologist, a doctor who works in intensive care for newborn babies, and started a private emergency medical practice with a close friend.
Nearly two decades later, Sexton and his family began a transformation of sorts as two of his sons joined the Marine Corps, both at 17.
Their decisions to join the Marines surprised and moved Sexton, he said, because they never talked about the military at home and he thought his children would get through high school and then go on to college. He began to feel the tug of inspiration.
Sexton's third son, who had joined in 1997, was due to get out of the Marines in 2003, but chose to re-enlist. "He insisted on going to Iraq, so he extended himself and went into Iraq on the first wave," he said.
"My two sons inspired me," he said. "Then, two years later, after reading what the Army had done over there, I got more and more inspired with everything I read."
Concluding that the fight against terrorism would be a long one, and feeling he could still make a contribution, Sexton accepted a commission to the Army in November 2007 and has been serving as a doctor in Baghdad since October.
"I figured we have less than 1 percent of the American people in the service, and some of those people are going to need a break sometime - and that's what I aim to do. I'm still physically fit. I thought I could make a contribution," Sexton said.
Sexton's decision to rejoin the Army after a 38-year break in service leaves him little possibility of earning a military retirement because of his age. Still, he said, he derives satisfaction from making a contribution to a noble cause – working with Iraqi forces to bring medical care and training to needy areas in Baghdad.
"He blows us away. He's pushing 60, and he's more physically fit than some of the younger guys here," said Army 1st Sgt. George Guerra, the battalion's senior enlisted leader. "We hardly ever see him because he's always gone doing these combined medical engagements. He's really into his work, and he loves it. He just wants to get out and do this work with the Iraqi people."
Sexton said he finds great satisfaction helping Iraqis by providing them with needed medical care, and he expressed a desire when his tour is over to go to other places with the Army where he can continue his work.
"I'll be going to Afghanistan next year with my old unit," Sexton said. "After Afghanistan, I would like to go to the Horn of Africa, because that's where I think civil affairs probably shines the most. I would like to do tours in Central and South America because of the language, and I wouldn't mind going to the Philippines."
(Sgt. Whitney Houston serves in the Multinational Division Baghdad public affairs office.)
Defense Students Invited to Work With 'Best Minds' in Science
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 5, 2009 - The search is on for three Department of Defense Education Activity students to represent the department's schools at the 2009 Research Science Institute. The institute, sponsored by the nonprofit Center for Excellence in Education in collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology, hosts the residential program at MIT in Cambridge, Mass., from June 21 to Aug. 1. The six-week program allows students to work with eminent scientists and researchers and participate in college-level classes designed to sharpen students' skills as they complete hands-on research.
The institute reserves 50 openings for U.S. students, three of which will go to DoDEA students. Thirty openings are reserved for international students, said Joann DiGennaro, president of the center.
DiGennaro, a former chairman of the U.S. Army War College, founded the center with the late Adm. H.G. Rickover, a nuclear scientist, in 1983. They started the institute as the Virginia-based center's flagship program a year later to encourage young people to enter careers in science, technology and math, DiGennaro said.
The institute provides "a natural symbiosis" between students from Defense Department schools and the military services and contractors who recruit from its ranks, DiGennaro said, adding that the center has been "extremely pleased" with the DoDEA students they've hosted in the past.
"It's an incredible opportunity for students," said Frank O'Gara, the department's educational communications officer. "Students get to meet and to work with some of the best scientists, and best minds really, in the world.
"They're looking at current research that's going on in science, in technology and engineering and mathematics," he added. "They come away from there with some incredible skills and also some wonderful connections that they've made."
Research Science Institute is open to students who will have completed the third year of high school by summer. While application packages must be to Education Activity area deputy directors by Feb. 20, students should check with their schools to see when their principals need them.
Packages must include essay answers to questions regarding goals in math or science, two teacher recommendations, a copy of the student's high school academic record and record of PSAT scores. It's recommended that the student's PSAT score in math be at least 75, and that the combined math and verbal PSAT score should be at least 140.
Students can demonstrate their leadership in a variety of ways, including leadership roles they have taken in various science classes and endeavors, O'Gara said.
"Many of these students have outside interests beyond school where they pursued science, and any of those activities would also be important to include," O'Gara added.
Students will be notified by mail in mid-March whether they've been selected. If selected, students' expenses, including lodging and meals, are covered. The Education Activity will pay travel expenses for its three students.
American Forces Press Service
Jan. 5, 2009 - The search is on for three Department of Defense Education Activity students to represent the department's schools at the 2009 Research Science Institute. The institute, sponsored by the nonprofit Center for Excellence in Education in collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology, hosts the residential program at MIT in Cambridge, Mass., from June 21 to Aug. 1. The six-week program allows students to work with eminent scientists and researchers and participate in college-level classes designed to sharpen students' skills as they complete hands-on research.
The institute reserves 50 openings for U.S. students, three of which will go to DoDEA students. Thirty openings are reserved for international students, said Joann DiGennaro, president of the center.
DiGennaro, a former chairman of the U.S. Army War College, founded the center with the late Adm. H.G. Rickover, a nuclear scientist, in 1983. They started the institute as the Virginia-based center's flagship program a year later to encourage young people to enter careers in science, technology and math, DiGennaro said.
The institute provides "a natural symbiosis" between students from Defense Department schools and the military services and contractors who recruit from its ranks, DiGennaro said, adding that the center has been "extremely pleased" with the DoDEA students they've hosted in the past.
"It's an incredible opportunity for students," said Frank O'Gara, the department's educational communications officer. "Students get to meet and to work with some of the best scientists, and best minds really, in the world.
"They're looking at current research that's going on in science, in technology and engineering and mathematics," he added. "They come away from there with some incredible skills and also some wonderful connections that they've made."
Research Science Institute is open to students who will have completed the third year of high school by summer. While application packages must be to Education Activity area deputy directors by Feb. 20, students should check with their schools to see when their principals need them.
Packages must include essay answers to questions regarding goals in math or science, two teacher recommendations, a copy of the student's high school academic record and record of PSAT scores. It's recommended that the student's PSAT score in math be at least 75, and that the combined math and verbal PSAT score should be at least 140.
Students can demonstrate their leadership in a variety of ways, including leadership roles they have taken in various science classes and endeavors, O'Gara said.
"Many of these students have outside interests beyond school where they pursued science, and any of those activities would also be important to include," O'Gara added.
Students will be notified by mail in mid-March whether they've been selected. If selected, students' expenses, including lodging and meals, are covered. The Education Activity will pay travel expenses for its three students.
MILITARY CONTRACTS January 5, 2009
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Theodore Wille Intertrade (TWI), Zug, Switzerland* is being awarded a $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP02).
SupplyCore, Rockford, Ill.*, is being awarded a maximum $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP04).
Seven Seas Shipchandlers, Dubai, United Arab Emirate*, is being awarded a $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP05).
NAVY
CACI Systems, Inc., Chantilly, Va., is being awarded a $19,489,391 modification to a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee contract (N00421-06-C-0074) to exercise an option for technical support, engineering services and supplies in support of the Special Communications Requirements Division of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division. This modification provides support for various Navy, Army, and Air Force, Special Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Electronic Systems. The estimated level of effort for this contract is 286,000 man-hours. Work will be performed in Lexington Park, Md., (80 percent) and St. Inigoes, Md., (20 percent), and is expected to be completed in Jan. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes, Md., is the contracting activity.
Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc., Pasadena, Calif., is being awarded a $7,386,777 modification under a previously awarded multiple award contract (N00178-05-D-4487) firm-fixed price task order # EFE2 to exercise option period I which provides for program and engineering services in support of capital improvement projects: technical, project management, and data management to support planning, design, and post construction award for the Navy and Marine Corp clients within NAVFAC SW area of responsibility in the metro San Diego area. The total cumulative task order amount after exercise of this option will be $11,906,761. The task order also contains three unexercised options, which if exercised, would increase cumulative task order value to $35,140,123. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2010. Operation and maintenance (O&M) contract funds in the amount of $930,342 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
The Air Force modified a contract with Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., a for $12,247,290. This contract action will provide a miniature air launched decoy jammer Block II program contract for a fourteen month concept refinement study for data link and increased effective radiated power. At this time $9,000,000 has been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8682-09-C-0082).
Theodore Wille Intertrade (TWI), Zug, Switzerland* is being awarded a $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP02).
SupplyCore, Rockford, Ill.*, is being awarded a maximum $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP04).
Seven Seas Shipchandlers, Dubai, United Arab Emirate*, is being awarded a $1,825,000,000 firm fixed price, total set aside, prime vendor, indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract for maintenance, repair and operations of supplies and materials. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is exercising the third one-year option. The date of performance completion is Jan. 2, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM500-05-D-BP05).
NAVY
CACI Systems, Inc., Chantilly, Va., is being awarded a $19,489,391 modification to a previously awarded cost plus fixed fee contract (N00421-06-C-0074) to exercise an option for technical support, engineering services and supplies in support of the Special Communications Requirements Division of the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division. This modification provides support for various Navy, Army, and Air Force, Special Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Electronic Systems. The estimated level of effort for this contract is 286,000 man-hours. Work will be performed in Lexington Park, Md., (80 percent) and St. Inigoes, Md., (20 percent), and is expected to be completed in Jan. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, St. Inigoes, Md., is the contracting activity.
Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc., Pasadena, Calif., is being awarded a $7,386,777 modification under a previously awarded multiple award contract (N00178-05-D-4487) firm-fixed price task order # EFE2 to exercise option period I which provides for program and engineering services in support of capital improvement projects: technical, project management, and data management to support planning, design, and post construction award for the Navy and Marine Corp clients within NAVFAC SW area of responsibility in the metro San Diego area. The total cumulative task order amount after exercise of this option will be $11,906,761. The task order also contains three unexercised options, which if exercised, would increase cumulative task order value to $35,140,123. Work will be performed in San Diego, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2010. Operation and maintenance (O&M) contract funds in the amount of $930,342 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
AIR FORCE
The Air Force modified a contract with Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., a for $12,247,290. This contract action will provide a miniature air launched decoy jammer Block II program contract for a fourteen month concept refinement study for data link and increased effective radiated power. At this time $9,000,000 has been obligated. 692 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8682-09-C-0082).
Citizen Survival of Terrorist Attacks
On January 9, 2009, Conversations with Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with self-defense expert Jim Wagner on how a citizen non-combatant can best survive a terrorist attack.
Program Date: January 9, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Citizen Survival of Terrorist Attacks
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/01/10/Citizen-Survival-of-Terrorist-Attacks
About the Guests
At the age of 14, Jim Wagner began to his life long pursuit of self-defense by beginning his study of the marital arts. Four years later he joined the United States Army. In 1991 Jim Wagner, sponsored by the Costa Mesa Police Department, entered the police academy (Orange County Sheriff’s Department Training Academy Class 104). Like his Military training before, Jim Wagner was deeply influenced by the police academy’s realistic conflict scenarios.
During his career with the Costa Mesa Police Department, Jim Wagner earned a place on the SWAT team. It was through this conduit that Jim learned about logistics, command post operations, hostage negotiations, entry team tactics, and sniping. On the job training included courses with LAPD SWAT, the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Training Center, and from U.S. Marines Division Schools Camp Pendleton (Advanced Sniper Course, Military Operations Urban Terrain, Helicopter Rope Suspension Training, and Range Safety Officer).
While conducting a myriad of courses at Camp Pendleton, both Military units and other law enforcement agencies using the base for their own training discovered Jim Wagner’s unique approach to training and his seamless blending of defensive tactics with edged weapons and firearms skills. Before long he was getting offers from the United States Marine Corps, U.S. Marshals Special Operations Group, Department of Defense police, California Highway Patrol, California Department of Corrections, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Probation Department, U.S. Border Patrol, Immigration & Naturalization Service, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines Provost Marshal Office, Drug Enforcement Administration. By 1996 Jim found himself being invited by foreign unit to train in their own countries: GermanGSG9, Brazilian G.A.T.E., Argentinean G.O.E., Royal Canadian Mounted Police, London Metropolitan Police, Helsinki Police Department, and various units in Spain, Mexico, and Israel.
The demand on Jim Wagner’s time was overwhelming and in 1999 he decided to resign from the Costa Mesa Police Department and started teaching full time. Not wanting to fully give up his law enforcement career Jim applied as a Reserve Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Jim Wagner is the author of Reality Based Personal Protection.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, Criminal Justice technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/01/10/Citizen-Survival-of-Terrorist-Attacks
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: January 9, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Citizen Survival of Terrorist Attacks
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/01/10/Citizen-Survival-of-Terrorist-Attacks
About the Guests
At the age of 14, Jim Wagner began to his life long pursuit of self-defense by beginning his study of the marital arts. Four years later he joined the United States Army. In 1991 Jim Wagner, sponsored by the Costa Mesa Police Department, entered the police academy (Orange County Sheriff’s Department Training Academy Class 104). Like his Military training before, Jim Wagner was deeply influenced by the police academy’s realistic conflict scenarios.
During his career with the Costa Mesa Police Department, Jim Wagner earned a place on the SWAT team. It was through this conduit that Jim learned about logistics, command post operations, hostage negotiations, entry team tactics, and sniping. On the job training included courses with LAPD SWAT, the U.S. Army Special Forces, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Tactical Training Center, and from U.S. Marines Division Schools Camp Pendleton (Advanced Sniper Course, Military Operations Urban Terrain, Helicopter Rope Suspension Training, and Range Safety Officer).
While conducting a myriad of courses at Camp Pendleton, both Military units and other law enforcement agencies using the base for their own training discovered Jim Wagner’s unique approach to training and his seamless blending of defensive tactics with edged weapons and firearms skills. Before long he was getting offers from the United States Marine Corps, U.S. Marshals Special Operations Group, Department of Defense police, California Highway Patrol, California Department of Corrections, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Probation Department, U.S. Border Patrol, Immigration & Naturalization Service, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines Provost Marshal Office, Drug Enforcement Administration. By 1996 Jim found himself being invited by foreign unit to train in their own countries: GermanGSG9, Brazilian G.A.T.E., Argentinean G.O.E., Royal Canadian Mounted Police, London Metropolitan Police, Helsinki Police Department, and various units in Spain, Mexico, and Israel.
The demand on Jim Wagner’s time was overwhelming and in 1999 he decided to resign from the Costa Mesa Police Department and started teaching full time. Not wanting to fully give up his law enforcement career Jim applied as a Reserve Deputy at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Jim Wagner is the author of Reality Based Personal Protection.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, Criminal Justice technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/01/10/Citizen-Survival-of-Terrorist-Attacks
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Saturday, January 03, 2009
P-8A Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft Homebasing Announced
The Department of the Navy announced today its decision to provide facilities and functions to base five fleet squadrons of the P-8A Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) with a fleet replacement squadron (FRS) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Fla., four fleet squadrons at NAS Whidbey Island, Wash., and three fleet squadrons at Marine Corps Base Hawaii Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, with periodic squadron detachment operations at NAS North Island. This decision implements the preferred homebasing alternative 5 identified in the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) for the Introduction of the P-8A Multi-Mission Aircraft into the U.S. Navy Fleet (published November 2008). Introduction of the P-8A MMA squadrons is projected to begin no later than 2012 and be completed by 2019.
The notice of availability of the Navy's record of decision (ROD) was published in the Federal Register on Dec. 31, 2008 and the ROD is available for public viewing on the project Web site at http://www.mmaeis.com along with copies of the FEIS and supporting documents.
This action is needed to transition from existing P-3C aircraft to the P-8A MMA while maintaining the Navy's overall maritime patrol capability supporting national defense objectives and policies without interruption or impediment to operations or combat readiness. Ultimately, this action will include a total of 84 fleet and FRS aircraft.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.
The notice of availability of the Navy's record of decision (ROD) was published in the Federal Register on Dec. 31, 2008 and the ROD is available for public viewing on the project Web site at http://www.mmaeis.com along with copies of the FEIS and supporting documents.
This action is needed to transition from existing P-3C aircraft to the P-8A MMA while maintaining the Navy's overall maritime patrol capability supporting national defense objectives and policies without interruption or impediment to operations or combat readiness. Ultimately, this action will include a total of 84 fleet and FRS aircraft.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342.
Face of Defense: Future Airman Loses 160 Pounds, Gains Confidence
By Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Lindsey
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 2, 2009 - For the past 15 months, Leo Knight-Inglesby has pushed himself beyond the limits he and his loved ones ever thought possible. The 22-year-old Silver Spring, Md., native shed more than 160 pounds to meet the physical standard of Air Force enlistment, amazing his recruiter, family and friends.
"No one believed I would do it till I showed them the [enlistment] papers," Knight-Inglesby said. "My life has completely changed. Not only am I stronger, physically, I am mentally stronger and more confident."
Today, the former 351-pound college freshman noshes only on healthy food, limits his daily caloric intake and exercises at least five days a week. Although he maintains the same smile, he looks like a different person at about 190 pounds, his recruiter, Air Force Staff Sgt. Ty Lopez, said.
"He's well on his way to making his goal of 185 pounds before heading to basic military training," Lopez said.
Knight-Inglesby is scheduled to enter basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, in March, but said he hopes to attend earlier if a spot becomes available.
The 317th Recruiting Squadron recruiter caught Knight-Inglesby's attention in the summer of 2007 while speaking about Air Force opportunities to a group of people near a local community college.
"I wasn't getting much interest out of anyone except an obviously overweight guy in the back of the group," Lopez recalled. "He asked me questions that I gladly answered in hopes that the other guys in the group would become interested. At the end of our conversation, Leo said he wanted to join."
The recruiter told the young man he looked heavier than the maximum allowable weight to enlist, and that at his height he needed to weigh under 202 pounds to join. A week later, Knight-Inglesby visited Lopez, tipping the recruiting office scale at 347 pounds and leading the future airman to a serious evaluation of his life.
"My uncle was overweight and had a massive heart attack, and I didn't want that to happen to me" he said. "I knew I had to get my life on track, and I wanted the benefits the Air Force offers."
The potential to travel overseas, especially to Germany, remains a powerful motivator for Knight-Inglesby, as does his father's encouragement to serve in the military. Both his grandfathers and father served in the Army, and his brother serves in the Navy.
The only issue that kept Knight-Inglesby from becoming an airman earlier was his girth, he said.
Lopez said Knight-Inglesby's weight loss gave him insight on the power of personal determination. When Knight-Inglesby proved he was serious about making the standard, Lopez joined him at the gym and helped the future airman continue when he reached a plateau in his weight loss at 220 pounds.
"We worked hard and he would never give up," Lopez said. "No matter how hard I worked him or how tired he got, he would keep going and ask for more.
"As a recruiter, we get hung up on time management," he continued. "I have 28 high schools and colleges to visit every month in addition to scheduled appointments. Applicants 15 to 20 pounds overweight say they want to join and that they'll lose the weight, then I never hear from them again. But based on Leo's case, now I'll think twice about not taking them seriously."
(Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Lindsey serves in the Air Force Recruiting Service public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Jan. 2, 2009 - For the past 15 months, Leo Knight-Inglesby has pushed himself beyond the limits he and his loved ones ever thought possible. The 22-year-old Silver Spring, Md., native shed more than 160 pounds to meet the physical standard of Air Force enlistment, amazing his recruiter, family and friends.
"No one believed I would do it till I showed them the [enlistment] papers," Knight-Inglesby said. "My life has completely changed. Not only am I stronger, physically, I am mentally stronger and more confident."
Today, the former 351-pound college freshman noshes only on healthy food, limits his daily caloric intake and exercises at least five days a week. Although he maintains the same smile, he looks like a different person at about 190 pounds, his recruiter, Air Force Staff Sgt. Ty Lopez, said.
"He's well on his way to making his goal of 185 pounds before heading to basic military training," Lopez said.
Knight-Inglesby is scheduled to enter basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, in March, but said he hopes to attend earlier if a spot becomes available.
The 317th Recruiting Squadron recruiter caught Knight-Inglesby's attention in the summer of 2007 while speaking about Air Force opportunities to a group of people near a local community college.
"I wasn't getting much interest out of anyone except an obviously overweight guy in the back of the group," Lopez recalled. "He asked me questions that I gladly answered in hopes that the other guys in the group would become interested. At the end of our conversation, Leo said he wanted to join."
The recruiter told the young man he looked heavier than the maximum allowable weight to enlist, and that at his height he needed to weigh under 202 pounds to join. A week later, Knight-Inglesby visited Lopez, tipping the recruiting office scale at 347 pounds and leading the future airman to a serious evaluation of his life.
"My uncle was overweight and had a massive heart attack, and I didn't want that to happen to me" he said. "I knew I had to get my life on track, and I wanted the benefits the Air Force offers."
The potential to travel overseas, especially to Germany, remains a powerful motivator for Knight-Inglesby, as does his father's encouragement to serve in the military. Both his grandfathers and father served in the Army, and his brother serves in the Navy.
The only issue that kept Knight-Inglesby from becoming an airman earlier was his girth, he said.
Lopez said Knight-Inglesby's weight loss gave him insight on the power of personal determination. When Knight-Inglesby proved he was serious about making the standard, Lopez joined him at the gym and helped the future airman continue when he reached a plateau in his weight loss at 220 pounds.
"We worked hard and he would never give up," Lopez said. "No matter how hard I worked him or how tired he got, he would keep going and ask for more.
"As a recruiter, we get hung up on time management," he continued. "I have 28 high schools and colleges to visit every month in addition to scheduled appointments. Applicants 15 to 20 pounds overweight say they want to join and that they'll lose the weight, then I never hear from them again. But based on Leo's case, now I'll think twice about not taking them seriously."
(Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Lindsey serves in the Air Force Recruiting Service public affairs office.)
MILITARY CONTRACTS January 2, 2009
DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY
CSC Systems & Solutions (LLC), of Chantilly, Va., was awarded a non-competitive Cost Plus Award Fee contract on Feb. 10, 2004, for a base period of 23 months and three one-year option periods. The total ceiling amount of this contract is $449,674,000 dollars. The current contract expires on 31 December 2008. Modification P00069 is a continuation and extension of the work performed by CSC under contract HC1013-04-C-5000. This modification will extend the period of performance of the contract for the existing Government Emergency Telecommunications Service and Wireless Priority Service (WPS) Integration Contract (IC) by one year, with an option for one additional year for the period of Jan. 1, 2009, through Dec. 31, 2010. This service is a major Department of Homeland Security program for improving national security and emergency preparedness telecommunications in the event of natural or man-made disasters by utilizing the surviving assets of the public switched network to provide priorities and routing alternatives not available to normal telecommunications traffic. Performance will commence in Chantilly, Va. The extension solicitation was issued as an other than full and open competitive action pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c)(1). The DITCO, Scott AFB, Ill., is the contracting activity. (HC1013-04-C-5000, Modification P00069).
ARMY
AM General, LLC, South Bend, Ind., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $54,856,920 firm/fixed/price contract for the addition of 1,698 EA High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) to contract. Work will be performed at Mishawaka, Ind., with an estimated completion date of Dec 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).
Telford Aviation, Inc. (TAI), Bangor, Maine, was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008 a $36,201,122 Time-and-Materials contract for award of an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) for the continued operational support of Multi-Sensor Airborne Reconnaissance and Surveillance Systems (MARSSs), to meet the urgent requirements of Project Manager (PM) Arial Common Sensors for CENTCOM forces supporting Operation Enduring Freedom Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror in the Southwest Asia Area of Operations. Fiscal 2009 Operations and Maintenance, Army appropriations in the amount of $73,879,842 will be used. This effort is funded at 49 percent ($36,201,122) of the Not-to-Exceed Price ($73,879,842) until definitization takes place. Work will be performed at Hagerstown, Md., with an estimated completion date of June 15, 2009. Bids were solicited by sole source with one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-07-W009).
Natt McDougall Corp., Tualatin, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $9,717,720 firm/fixed/price – construction contract for construction of a new Fish Collection Facility at Cougar Dam located on the South Fork of the McKenzie River directly downstream of the dam. The offsite fabrication work includes, but is not limited to, miscellaneous metals features such as guides, fish screens, diffusers, work platforms, fish Crowder's, screen cleaners, flumes, and system piping. The on-site work includes, but is not limited to, cofferdam placement and removal, diversion of water, excavation, fill, roadwork, earth retaining structures, fencing, concrete pump stations, a concrete fish ladder, fish collection facilities, metal cover structure, supply and installation of mechanical equipment (pumps, valves, fish Crowder's, flumes, switch gates, false weirs, screen cleaners, system piping), supply and installation of electrical equipment (power distribution, transformers, generators, lighting, motor control centers, and Programmable Logic Controller control system). Work will be performed at Cougar Dam, Blue River, Ore., with an estimated completion date of May 15, 2010. One offer was issued with seven offers received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer District, Portland, Ore., is the contracting activity (W9127N-09-C-0006).
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $9,462,663 firm/fixed/price contract for Post Production System Support (PPSS) Services for The Netherlands. All work is to be performed at Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-C-0076).
Dynamic Animation Systems, Inc., Fairfax, Va., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, an $8,511,667 Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for Analysis, Design, Integration and Support of Modeling Architecture for Technology, Research and Experimentation (MATREX) Program. Work will be performed at Fairfax, Va., and Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2013. One bid was solicited by Sole Source with one bid received. U.S. Army Research, Development & Engineering Acquisition Center, Orlando Team, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-09-C-0036).
Alutiiq Diversified Services, LLC, Anchorage, Ala., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $6,339,655 firm/fixed/price contract to design & construct a Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF), Admin Bldg & Site Work for the Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 5, Fort Lewis, Wash. All work is to be performed at Fort Lewis, Wash., with an estimated completion date of May 20, 2010. Bids were solicited using FedBizOpps with four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, Seattle, Wash., is the contracting activity (W912DW-09-C-0002).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missile and Fires Control (LMMFC), Grand Prairie, Texas was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $179,679,703 firm/fixed/price / Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract of which the requirement includes High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Full Rate Production (FRP 4) launchers in support of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps to include 57 Army launchers and 7 United States Marine Corps for a total of 64 launchers with Quality/Engineering Products. System Integrator, Product Date Definition Package (PDDP) Maintenance Tasks, Trainer, Training, Support Equipment including Lags and Slings, and associated data reporting. Work will be performed at Grand Prairie, Texas and East Camden, Ark., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-08-C-0001).
FLIR Systems, Inc., Wilsonville, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $20,063,293 firm/fixed/price contract for StarFIRE III sensors and related cables and hardware for the Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment (RAID) Sensor Components. Work will be performed at Wilsonville, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-07-D-0004).
Skanska USA Civil Southeast Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $19,726,000 firm/fixed/price contract to Design/Build Retaining Walls, Santa Rosa Island Complex, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., construct three Seawalls with a total length of approximately 2,935 linear feet. Each seawall is to consist of an anchored steel sheet pile capped with a continuous reinforced concrete beam. A wave attenuating rock revetment is constructed behind the walls and varies in height from 6 to 12 feet above the top of the wall. Amend. 4 added Bid Option No. 1 to include dredging, beach restoration, and planting sea oats. Work is to be performed at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Jan. 10, 2010. Bids were solicited by FedBizOpps with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Mobile District, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-09-C-0012).
DMJM/PARSONS A JOINT VENTURE, Arlington, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $15,550,721 Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for Project and Technical Construction Management Services for Pentagon Renovation Program. Work is to be performed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Pentagon Renovation & Construction Program Office, the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (MDA947-01-D-0001).
Better Built Construction Services, Inc., Middletown, Ohio, was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, an $11,767,621 firm/fixed/price construction contract for design and construction of Pipeline Dormitory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. All work will be performed on Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio, with an estimated completion date of June 1, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with eight bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0009).
FLIR Systems, Inc., Wilsonville, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $10,355,248 firm/fixed/price contract for StarFIRE III sensors and related cables and hardware for the Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment (RAID) Sensor Components. Work will be performed at Wilsonville, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-07-D-0004).
Didlake Inc., Manassas, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $9,180,335 firm/fixed/price contract for Annual Appropriation, Fiscal 2009, Pentagon Reservation Maintenance Revolving Funds, $9,180,335 provided in order to exercise the option for service in Fiscal 2009. Work will be performed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2013. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Washington Headquarters Services Acquisition and Procurement Office, the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HQ0034-08-C-1021).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force modified a contract with Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., Savannah, Ga., for $35,000,000. This contract action exercises Contract Option VIII for CY09 of an Engineering Services (ESS) contract to provide Special Air Mission (SAM) aircraft for transportation of dignitaries on a worldwide basis. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker AFB, Okla., is the contracting activity (F34601-01-C-0008/P00111).
The Air Force awarded a firm fixed-price contract to the McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., for $13,835,952. This will authorize McDonnell to provide various test assets in support of The Small Diameter Bomb I program for aircraft/weapon integration for threshold and follow-on aircraft. At this time, $13,835,952 has been obligated. 681 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8672-09-d-0062 Delivery Oder 0002).
UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
Sealift Inc. of Oyster Bay, N.Y., is being awarded a $14,141,570 fixed-price requirements contract for dedicated sealift services to transport lawful cargo by U.S. flag ships between points in the Continental United States of America (CONUS) and the terminals in Antigua and Ascension Islands. This contract is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2011. Orders placed against this contract will be funded at the time the cargo is booked. This contract is a 100 percent Small Business Set Aside acquisition with three bids received. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. (HTC711-09-D-0005).
CSC Systems & Solutions (LLC), of Chantilly, Va., was awarded a non-competitive Cost Plus Award Fee contract on Feb. 10, 2004, for a base period of 23 months and three one-year option periods. The total ceiling amount of this contract is $449,674,000 dollars. The current contract expires on 31 December 2008. Modification P00069 is a continuation and extension of the work performed by CSC under contract HC1013-04-C-5000. This modification will extend the period of performance of the contract for the existing Government Emergency Telecommunications Service and Wireless Priority Service (WPS) Integration Contract (IC) by one year, with an option for one additional year for the period of Jan. 1, 2009, through Dec. 31, 2010. This service is a major Department of Homeland Security program for improving national security and emergency preparedness telecommunications in the event of natural or man-made disasters by utilizing the surviving assets of the public switched network to provide priorities and routing alternatives not available to normal telecommunications traffic. Performance will commence in Chantilly, Va. The extension solicitation was issued as an other than full and open competitive action pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c)(1). The DITCO, Scott AFB, Ill., is the contracting activity. (HC1013-04-C-5000, Modification P00069).
ARMY
AM General, LLC, South Bend, Ind., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $54,856,920 firm/fixed/price contract for the addition of 1,698 EA High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) to contract. Work will be performed at Mishawaka, Ind., with an estimated completion date of Dec 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Tank & Automotive Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (DAAE07-01-C-S001).
Telford Aviation, Inc. (TAI), Bangor, Maine, was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008 a $36,201,122 Time-and-Materials contract for award of an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) for the continued operational support of Multi-Sensor Airborne Reconnaissance and Surveillance Systems (MARSSs), to meet the urgent requirements of Project Manager (PM) Arial Common Sensors for CENTCOM forces supporting Operation Enduring Freedom Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror in the Southwest Asia Area of Operations. Fiscal 2009 Operations and Maintenance, Army appropriations in the amount of $73,879,842 will be used. This effort is funded at 49 percent ($36,201,122) of the Not-to-Exceed Price ($73,879,842) until definitization takes place. Work will be performed at Hagerstown, Md., with an estimated completion date of June 15, 2009. Bids were solicited by sole source with one bid received. CECOM Acquisition Center, Fort Monmouth, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-07-W009).
Natt McDougall Corp., Tualatin, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $9,717,720 firm/fixed/price – construction contract for construction of a new Fish Collection Facility at Cougar Dam located on the South Fork of the McKenzie River directly downstream of the dam. The offsite fabrication work includes, but is not limited to, miscellaneous metals features such as guides, fish screens, diffusers, work platforms, fish Crowder's, screen cleaners, flumes, and system piping. The on-site work includes, but is not limited to, cofferdam placement and removal, diversion of water, excavation, fill, roadwork, earth retaining structures, fencing, concrete pump stations, a concrete fish ladder, fish collection facilities, metal cover structure, supply and installation of mechanical equipment (pumps, valves, fish Crowder's, flumes, switch gates, false weirs, screen cleaners, system piping), supply and installation of electrical equipment (power distribution, transformers, generators, lighting, motor control centers, and Programmable Logic Controller control system). Work will be performed at Cougar Dam, Blue River, Ore., with an estimated completion date of May 15, 2010. One offer was issued with seven offers received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer District, Portland, Ore., is the contracting activity (W9127N-09-C-0006).
McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $9,462,663 firm/fixed/price contract for Post Production System Support (PPSS) Services for The Netherlands. All work is to be performed at Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2012. One bid was solicited and one bid received. U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aviation & Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-C-0076).
Dynamic Animation Systems, Inc., Fairfax, Va., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, an $8,511,667 Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for Analysis, Design, Integration and Support of Modeling Architecture for Technology, Research and Experimentation (MATREX) Program. Work will be performed at Fairfax, Va., and Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2013. One bid was solicited by Sole Source with one bid received. U.S. Army Research, Development & Engineering Acquisition Center, Orlando Team, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W91CRB-09-C-0036).
Alutiiq Diversified Services, LLC, Anchorage, Ala., was awarded on Dec. 30, 2008, a $6,339,655 firm/fixed/price contract to design & construct a Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF), Admin Bldg & Site Work for the Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 5, Fort Lewis, Wash. All work is to be performed at Fort Lewis, Wash., with an estimated completion date of May 20, 2010. Bids were solicited using FedBizOpps with four bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District, Seattle, Wash., is the contracting activity (W912DW-09-C-0002).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Missile and Fires Control (LMMFC), Grand Prairie, Texas was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $179,679,703 firm/fixed/price / Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract of which the requirement includes High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Full Rate Production (FRP 4) launchers in support of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps to include 57 Army launchers and 7 United States Marine Corps for a total of 64 launchers with Quality/Engineering Products. System Integrator, Product Date Definition Package (PDDP) Maintenance Tasks, Trainer, Training, Support Equipment including Lags and Slings, and associated data reporting. Work will be performed at Grand Prairie, Texas and East Camden, Ark., with an estimated completion date of Mar. 30, 2010. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-08-C-0001).
FLIR Systems, Inc., Wilsonville, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $20,063,293 firm/fixed/price contract for StarFIRE III sensors and related cables and hardware for the Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment (RAID) Sensor Components. Work will be performed at Wilsonville, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-07-D-0004).
Skanska USA Civil Southeast Inc., Virginia Beach, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $19,726,000 firm/fixed/price contract to Design/Build Retaining Walls, Santa Rosa Island Complex, Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., construct three Seawalls with a total length of approximately 2,935 linear feet. Each seawall is to consist of an anchored steel sheet pile capped with a continuous reinforced concrete beam. A wave attenuating rock revetment is constructed behind the walls and varies in height from 6 to 12 feet above the top of the wall. Amend. 4 added Bid Option No. 1 to include dredging, beach restoration, and planting sea oats. Work is to be performed at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Jan. 10, 2010. Bids were solicited by FedBizOpps with 10 bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Mobile District, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-09-C-0012).
DMJM/PARSONS A JOINT VENTURE, Arlington, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $15,550,721 Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for Project and Technical Construction Management Services for Pentagon Renovation Program. Work is to be performed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Pentagon Renovation & Construction Program Office, the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (MDA947-01-D-0001).
Better Built Construction Services, Inc., Middletown, Ohio, was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, an $11,767,621 firm/fixed/price construction contract for design and construction of Pipeline Dormitory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. All work will be performed on Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio, with an estimated completion date of June 1, 2010. Bids were solicited on FedBizOpps with eight bids received. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-09-C-0009).
FLIR Systems, Inc., Wilsonville, Ore., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $10,355,248 firm/fixed/price contract for StarFIRE III sensors and related cables and hardware for the Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment (RAID) Sensor Components. Work will be performed at Wilsonville, Ore., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2009. One bid was solicited with one bid received. U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-07-D-0004).
Didlake Inc., Manassas, Va., was awarded on Dec. 31, 2008, a $9,180,335 firm/fixed/price contract for Annual Appropriation, Fiscal 2009, Pentagon Reservation Maintenance Revolving Funds, $9,180,335 provided in order to exercise the option for service in Fiscal 2009. Work will be performed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2013. One bid was solicited and one bid received. Washington Headquarters Services Acquisition and Procurement Office, the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (HQ0034-08-C-1021).
AIR FORCE
The Air Force modified a contract with Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., Savannah, Ga., for $35,000,000. This contract action exercises Contract Option VIII for CY09 of an Engineering Services (ESS) contract to provide Special Air Mission (SAM) aircraft for transportation of dignitaries on a worldwide basis. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker AFB, Okla., is the contracting activity (F34601-01-C-0008/P00111).
The Air Force awarded a firm fixed-price contract to the McDonnell Douglas Corp., St. Louis, Mo., for $13,835,952. This will authorize McDonnell to provide various test assets in support of The Small Diameter Bomb I program for aircraft/weapon integration for threshold and follow-on aircraft. At this time, $13,835,952 has been obligated. 681 ARSS/PK, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity (FA8672-09-d-0062 Delivery Oder 0002).
UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
Sealift Inc. of Oyster Bay, N.Y., is being awarded a $14,141,570 fixed-price requirements contract for dedicated sealift services to transport lawful cargo by U.S. flag ships between points in the Continental United States of America (CONUS) and the terminals in Antigua and Ascension Islands. This contract is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2011. Orders placed against this contract will be funded at the time the cargo is booked. This contract is a 100 percent Small Business Set Aside acquisition with three bids received. The contracting activity is United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Directorate of Acquisition, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. (HTC711-09-D-0005).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
